Spring Lake December 2025

Spring Lake

ALSO SERVING SEA GIRT

FINDING

HER VOICE

KELLY REYNOLDS

MAKES MUSIC

DOGGONE

FRIENDLY

JIM EASLEY’S SOFT

SPOT FOR PUPS

Spotlight on Design

18 From Backstage to Front Porch

Growing up in community theater was the spark that ignited Johnny Bongiovanni’s local decor business. 22 Finding Her Voice

Spring Lake native and Princeton University freshman Kelly Reynolds is turning her passion for music into a heartfelt journey.

EVERY ISSUE

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Keeping Up With Traditions

Bongiovanni, founder of John Bongiovanni Designs Photograph by Christina Lilly

IKEEPING UP WITH TRADITIONS

IT’S THE MOST magical time of the year! We all know summer is the most wonderful time of the year, but this little stretch of time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is filled with warmth and magic for all ages. We all have our favorite local holiday traditions: the certain streets we make sure to drive down each season, our favorite spot for a holiday cocktail, the Christmas lights on the bridges, the little holiday surprises around each corner. December is a busy time for everyone, but there is so much to celebrate.

In an area like Spring Lake and Sea Girt, it is important for us to

shop locally and support our friends and neighbors. We are so lucky to have such unique and special retail shops to peruse. I always love a few busy, slightly chaotic days of holiday shopping. Being able to see and feel merchandise is valuable and something we may forget when trying to shop on a tiny screen in our hand. Take advantage of in-person experiences and make a day out of it.

One of our favorite family traditions is to see “Scrooge” on the Spring Lake Theatre stage. It’s heartwarming to recognize familiar faces and watch the kids grow each year. I feel that stage-mom pride for everyone willing to put themselves out there and step on that stage. Memories of “Scrooge” seem to be a common thread in our town. The show is a sweet memory for everyone lucky enough to participate, including two of our featured subjects this month—Johnny Bongiovanni and Kelly Reynolds. Special thanks to Miss Pat and her talented team at the theater for making this tradition possible for generations of families. Finally, be sure to check out our Life Outdoors story this month, and see if you spot your loyal sidekick. Thank you to Jim Easley for sharing his furry friends with us. We appreciate all the recent story submissions. We love hearing from you, so keep them coming. This past year was a great one for Spring Lake magazine, and we look forward to continuing to bring you local stories like these.

Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday season,

Brynn Coleman Publisher

Publisher and Editor

Brynn Coleman

Lead Writer and Editorial

Coordinator

Danielle Kutcher

Writers Liz Clark

Kate Czyzewski

Cynthia A. Murray

Lead Photographer

Christina Lilly

Photographer

Michelle Wolfe

Michael Scotto

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.

Holiday Happenings

Celebrate the magic of the season with your whole family at the Jersey Shore.

WATCH LOCAL TALENT ON BROADWAY

Spring Lake Height’s very own Nick Barrington is making waves in his Broadway debut as Little Boy (Edgar) in “Ragtime” at Lincoln Center Theater in New York City. This triumphant revival has been receiving rave reviews. The show will run through Jan. 4, 2026. For tickets and show information, visit www.lct.org.

FEAST YOUR EYES ON CHARLIE’S WONDERLAND

Each holiday season, Charlie’s restaurants in Bay Head and Lincroft transform into winter wonderlands, making them two of the most magical dining destinations at the Jersey Shore. The Bay Head location will kick off its festivities this year with a Christmas Walk on Dec. 5, featuring carolers, hot cocoa, and gingerbread cookies. In Lincroft, diners can enjoy carolers on Dec. 5, 6, 7, 12 and 13, and Brunch With Santa on Dec. 7.

SHOP SMALL BUSINESSES FOR GIFTS

Our incredible stretch of the Jersey Shore is defined by the passion of its local entrepreneurs. Each shop, from clothing boutiques to specialty gift stores, offers a vibe and selection that’s totally unique. On Small Business Saturday (Nov. 29) and throughout the holiday season, choose to invest in the charm of our community. By shopping local, you directly support the families and visionaries who make the Jersey Shore a fantastic place to live. It’s the most meaningful way to find those one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. To support your neighbors and keep your dollars right here in the local economy, head to Third Avenue in Spring Lake and at the shops in Sea Girt Square this season.

DIVE INTO A HOME-GROWN HOLIDAY BOOK

Sea Girt’s own Caitlin Accurso recently released her new children’ book, “Ollie the Elf and the Surfing Surprise.” This heartwarming holiday tale combines coastal cheer with the Christmas season. It is available at Learning Express Toys & Gifts in Sea Girt and on Amazon.

POSE FOR A PHOTO WITH THE CLAUSES

Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit Bently Diamond in Wall on Nov. 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring the whole family for photos with the Christmas couple, captured by professional photographer Walter Wall. Enjoy refreshments, treats, goodie bags for the kids, and jewelry cleaning.

ATTEND SPRING LAKE’S TREE LIGHTING

Spring Lake’s official start to the Christmas season will kick off with its annual tree lighting, featuring Community House dancers and cast members from “Scrooge.” Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive on a fire truck and head to the Community House for a meet and greet. The event will take place at the intersection of Third and Morris avenues on Nov. 29 at 6 p.m.

MAKE TRACKS TO THE TRAIN SHOW

Spring Lake’s Christmas Train Village is a beloved local tradition at Duggan Hall (313 Washington Ave.).

Running Nov. 29 through Dec. 31, this fun and festive annual train display weaves through a model of town and acts as a fundraiser with all proceeds going to the Common Ground Grief Center in Manasquan. Sponsored by Clayton Limousine Service, the village is FREE for visitors, with donations accepted on-site. It will be open Wednesdays through Sundays, noon to 5 p.m.

JOIN IN A SPECIAL SHOPPING EVENT

The Holiday Shopping Soiree (Dec. 4, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.) is a premier townwide event in Spring Lake. It is a festive evening dedicated to holiday shopping and community gathering that supports local businesses. Visitors and locals can expect to find great gifts, special promotions, and plenty of cheer on every corner.

AROUND TOWN

GET INTO THE SPIRIT WITH ‘SCROOGE’

The classic story of “Scrooge” returns to Spring Lake Theatre for its 43rd year on Dec. 5. This heartwarming musical, based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel “A Christmas Carol,” has become a cherished family holiday tradition at the Jersey Shore. The story of redemption follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. It’s a spectacular community event, featuring an enormous cast of over 100 locals, including dozens of talented children from our area. This beloved show consistently sells out, so be sure to secure your seats early. Visit www.springlaketheatre.com for showtimes and tickets.

SEE SPRING LAKE HEIGHTS’ TREE LIGHTING

Gather with neighbors and friends to celebrate the start of the holiday season at Borough Hall (555 Brighton Ave.) The annual municipal building tree lighting ceremony will feature festive light refreshments, fun activities for kids, and a few special guest appearances. Don’t miss this magical evening of community spirit on Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. to start your holiday season.

TOUR FESTIVE DÉCOR AROUND TOWN

Spring Lake’s Christmas Inn and House Tour on Dec. 6, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., will explore historic inns and private homes decked out in holiday décor. Start at 313 Washington Ave. to pick up your guide, then wander through the streets of town taking in festive interiors full of vintage charm and seasonal elegance.

HEAD TO SEA GIRT MARKET AND TREE LIGHTING

Sea Girt’s 5th Annual Holiday Market and Tree Lighting will be held on Dec. 5, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., on the green next to Sea Girt Library. (The inclement weather date is Dec. 7, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.) Many local vendors and artisans will feature holiday gifts, artwork, and handcrafted toys. Housewares and holiday decorations will also be available, among other items. The event will be held in conjunction with an elementary school concert and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. Attendees also will be able to enjoy hot chocolate around a bonfire.

Photography by Michael Scotto

DELIGHT IN DANCE PERFORMANCES

Spring Lake Theatre & Dance Academy will hold its winter recital on Dec. 16 and 17. This heartwarming showcase of talented students highlights the hard work, creativity, and passion of dancers of all ages as they take the stage to perform beautifully choreographed pieces inspired by the holidays. From classic ballet to contemporary numbers, it’s a wonderful evening that brings families and friends together for a joyful start to the season.

MAKE MERRY AT THE MISTLETOE BALL

The Shore Club will host the Mistletoe Ball On Dec. 20. This elegant evening will feature an open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, lively music, and casino tables where guests can play with “fun money.” The night also will include raffles and plenty of holiday cheer. Proceeds from the event go directly to charity, including the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and Blue Dot, among others dedicated to making a difference. For more information and tickets, visit www.mistletoeballnj.com.

SMILE FOR SANTA WITH YOUR PUPS

Lead your furry friends to the Paramount Diner for festive photos with Santa on Dec. 7, from noon to 2 p.m. Bring your own camera, and Santa’s elves will help snap the perfect shot. Enjoy holiday tunes by Gwynne Alden while making memories with your whole family, including your pets.

GO FOR A RUN WITH SANTA AND FRIENDS

St. Catharine School will host its annual Christmas 5K and Kids’ Fun Run on Dec. 6. The kids’ race will begin at 9 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9:30 a.m. Holiday festivities for the whole family include a visit from Santa, refreshments, a DJ, and more. For additional information and to register, visit www.scslakers.com/Christmas5K.

Serve Up a Theme

Give your holiday hosting a boost by building your event around a fun central idea.

BY CYNTHIA A. MURRAY

THE BEST PIECE of advice we can offer about holiday hosting (or hosting at any time of the year for that matter) is to create a theme. Whether you want to invite a handful of friends over for aperitivo or happy hour drinks with wine, spritzes, and Italian nibbles; or three to four couples for a sitdown French dinner with dishes and wines to match; or you want to host a festive party for 20-plus family members and friends, your get-together will be more exciting, more cohesive, and infinitely more tasteful with a chic theme in place. Your guests will leave your home thinking, “Wow! Now, that was a great night.”

CHOOSE A CONCEPT

Sometimes creating a theme is as simple as picking up artisan pizzas and pairing them with authentic Italian wines—that could not be easier or more cost effective.

If you want to create your own home-cooked menu, choose a specific type of cuisine and wines from the same country. Creating an elegant French motif, for example, is easier than you may think. Start with pâté and Champagne as your aperitif, then serve Dijon chicken breasts and a leafy salad tossed in a shallot vinaigrette with a white (or red) Burgundy. Finish your meal with legendary French cheeses, dried fruits, and dark chocolates with a gorgeous red Bordeaux. Voilà.

Another theme we love is Iberian Sabor, featuring wines, spirits, and foods from Spain and Portugal. Iberian foods are savory and delicious. Delight in meats and fishes flecked with smoky paprika and spices; chorizo (sausage);

jamón Ibérico (cured ham); rice; beans; artisan cheeses; and luscious fruit jams to spread on the cheese. This theme also brings music to mind. Why not create a playlist with Spanish songs to get your guests in the mood?

KEEP IT SIMPLE

While these ideas give us all some food for thought, the key to throwing a successful event is to keep things simple so you don’t feel overwhelmed in any way, because hosting should be fun. Once you have a theme in mind, visit your local wine merchant to help flesh out the details. They can help make sure your libations pair perfectly with any occasion. Also, pick up some cute, colorful napkins to set the tone, as well as a lovely floral arrangement. With these easy steps, you will elevate your holiday gatherings and be touted as the host of the season.

Cynthia A. Murray is a second-generation wine merchant and co-owner of The Bottle Shop of Spring Lake.

A WORLD OF WINES

Try serving these themed wine trios as the perfect mix of sparkling and still varieties at your next aperitivo or happy hour, dinner party, or large celebration. All the selections below are made with natural and organic methods from fine vintners committed to quality and authenticity.

Vive la France

• François Baur Crémant Sparkling ALSACE $24.99

• Château d’Aquéria Tavel Dry Rosé PROVENCE $24.99

• Haut-Médoc de Giscours BORDEAUX $39.99

Soulful Spain

• Sumarroca Cava Rosé Sparkling PENEDÉS $24.99

• Paco & Lola Albariño GALICIA $23.99

• Marqués de Murrieta Reserva RIOJA $32.99

Trattoria Vibes

• Ricci Curbastro Franciacorta Sparkling LOMBARDY $39.99

• Colosi Salina Bianco SICILY or Cantele Rosato PUGLIA $26.99

• Nino Costa Bardot Barbera d’Alba PIEDMONT $22.99

America the Beautiful

• Blue Quail Sauvignon Blanc MENDOCINO $16.99

• Fossil & Fawn Oregon Orange WILLAMETTE $29.99

• Forge Cellars Cabernet Franc Railroad Vineyard FINGER LAKES $34.99

Any theme can be tailored to a specific budget. The selections above are well suited for smaller dinners or gatherings. There is a world of amazing wines out there to be discovered.

Your family’s care is in good hands with Platinum Dental Group of Sea Girt. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment in a friendly, comfortable environment for your entire family. Our team is devoted to developing long lasting, trusting relationships our patients deserve. Providing our patients with complete and thorough information regarding their oral health together with all their treatment options allows them to make informed decisions that are right for them!

New Patient Special Free Consultation

No Insurance? No Problem Membership & Financing Options Available

• Cleanings

• Fillings

• Crowns & Bridges, Including Implant Crowns

• Cosmetic Bonding

• Veneers

• InvisalignTM

• Digital Dentistry

• Same Day Dentistry

• Root Canals

• E xtractions

• Deep Cleaning

• Occlusal Guards & Sport Mouth Guards

• Teeth Whitening

Doggone Friendly

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

IF YOU HAVE ever dropped off your recycling or yard waste at the Spring Lake Reclamation Center, chances are you have been greeted by Jim Easley—and so has your dog. For the past four years, Easley has been a friendly face at the center, bringing smiles to residents and wagging tails to their four-legged companions who come along for the ride.

He has worked for the Department of Public Works for 17 years, but it’s working as a Senior Recycling Technician at the Reclamation Center where he’s truly become a local fixture. Known for his easygoing nature and genuine love of animals, Easley has turned ordinary drop-offs into joyful moments.

A REAL TREAT

It’s not just people who look forward to seeing Easley. The dogs know exactly where they are the moment they pull into the Reclamation Center. Tails start wagging and noses press to car windows as they spot him with biscuits in hand and a smile on his face.

“I noticed that the dogs would be happy coming, and I wanted to give them treats,” Easley says. “I love all the dogs.”

The treats are provided by local resident Margie Brahn and her German shepherd, Lola, who happily keep Easley stocked with biscuits for all his furry visitors.

“Lola looks forward to seeing Jim,” says Margie’s husband, Don Brahn. “She gets really excited and wags her tail as we are pulling up to the Reclamation Center.”

Easley even keeps a photo album on his phone filled with pictures of the dogs he’s met over the years, from large Labradors to tiny terriers, each one a familiar friend (a sampling of his snapshots are featured here). To many residents, it’s this small but heartfelt gesture that captures what makes Spring Lake so special. In this community, kindness is second nature, and even a trip to the Reclamation Center can brighten your day.

Danielle Kutcher is a retired teacher and mom. She loves the theater, beach, and going on adventures with her family.

From Backstage to Front Porch

Growing up in community theater was the spark that ignited Johnny Bongiovanni’s local decor business.

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

IIT ALL STARTED in November 2020 during the height of the pandemic. Like so many others, Johnny Bongiovanni was simply looking for something to do to brighten up an uncertain time. “I started creating and experimenting with different decorating styles during Covid purely out of boredom,” he laughs, “and realized I could make it into something bigger.” Thus, John Bongiovanni Designs was born.

INFLUENCED BY THE THEATER

Bongiovanni’s love of decorating began long before the pandemic. He fondly remembers bringing the Spring Lake Community House to life each Christmas for its annual production of “Scrooge,” transforming the space with lights, garlands, and holiday cheer. Year after year, he continues to add magical holiday touches in every corner of the Community House, with his knack for bringing the space to life. “A big part of

my appreciation for design comes from growing up in the theater and working closely with [Executive Director] Pat Barry on so many projects,” Bongiovanni says. “Pat has a detailed eye and has taught me so much—I am truly grateful to have learned so much in those early years.”

Bongiovanni’s connection to the theater runs deep; it’s truly in his blood. His grandmother Francie Meehan is a Spring Lake legend who appeared in the very first Spring Lake Theatre production, “Bye Bye Birdie,” in 1976. Ever since then, his family has remained deeply involved

Far Left: Johnny Bongiovanni decorates for the annual Starlight Gala.

Bottom: Johnny Bongiovanni (left) and Mikey O’Hearn (right) perform on stage in the 2012 production of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.’

with the organization, and Bongiovanni has been around the theater practically since birth. He started out in the Spring Lake Theatre Workshop program in 2008, later moving on to main stage productions such as “Oliver!” “Scrooge,” and “42nd Street” before eventually becoming a stage manager. While he’s always loved the magic of theater, he realized early on that his heart was more behind the scenes than on the stage. Today, he plays a part in nearly every production, though costuming remains his favorite aspect.

EXPANDING HIS DESIGN SENSE

Bongiovanni’s years behind the curtain helped shape the creative foundation he uses today in his design company. Blending his theatrical training with his lifelong love of Christmas, he has found a way to spread that same sense of magic and joy throughout Spring Lake. “So much of what I do now—layering textures, creating focal points, making things come alive through color and light—comes from what I learned in the theater,” he explains. “The stage teaches you how to tell a story visually, and that’s what I try to do with every home I decorate.”

Entrepreneurship also runs in Bongiovanni’s family—they owned

a pizza shop in Spring Lake Heights for years. He believes that experience helped form his strong work ethic and business sense. “I grew up watching my family pour their hearts into what they loved,” he says. “Owning a small business is all about connection and making people happy, and that’s exactly what I hope to do through decorating.”

Bongiovanni also credits growing up in a beach town for shaping his creative outlook. “There’s nothing like living in Spring Lake,” he says. “I spent every day I could at South End Beach. It’s the best.” His love of local life and community connection now shines through in his decorating work, where he combines his theatrical eye with a timeless style.

CREATING LOOKS THAT TELL A STORY

Rather than forcing a theme for decorating, Bongiovanni lets inspiration grow naturally from what’s already there. “I use the colors, the existing landscaping, and the architecture to make everything work together,” he explains. He believes every home has its own personality and story, and his job is simply to highlight it, bringing out its best features. Most homeowners give Bongiovanni full creative freedom. “It’s a nice feeling,” he admits. “They have trust in me, and that makes the process even more rewarding.”

Bongiovanni also appreciates the bigger picture—how his work contributes to the town. When people drive through Spring Lake to admire the beautifully decorated homes, it’s impossible not to feel swept up in the holiday spirit. “It makes you appreciate the unique town we live in,” he says. “Each home has its own personality, its own little touches that make it special, but the overall look of the town remains classic.” For Bongiovanni, it’s this sense of community and shared celebration that makes decorating Spring Lake so rewarding. It brings joy not just to individual homeowners but to everyone who experiences the town during the festive holiday season.

Looking ahead, Bongiovanni envisions something far bigger. “I would love to have a shop in downtown Spring Lake,” he says, “one that’s a truly aesthetic, one-stop destination for all decorating and hosting needs.” He imagines a space where visitors can be inspired, try out new ideas, and find that special touch that elevates their celebration. Until then, Bongiovanni offers this design advice: “Just do what you like and what makes you happy,” he says with a smile. “And remember, less is more.”

Danielle Kutcher is a retired teacher and mom. She loves the theater, beach, and going on adventures with her family.

Finding Her Voice

Spring Lake native and Princeton University freshman Kelly Reynolds is turning her passion for music into a heartfelt journey.

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

SSPRING LAKE NATIVE Kelly Reynolds has always had music in her heart. From early performances in school choirs and community theater to singing the national anthem for audiences at just 9 years old, her passion for performing began right here along the Jersey Shore. Now a freshman at Princeton University, she continues to pursue her musical dreams by writing, recording, and performing songs that reflect her deep connection to the world around her.

“Kelly’s development into a competent and potentially successful musician and an accomplished student has clearly been the result of the great education she received at H.W. Mountz, her exposure to the community theater, and as a singer at St. Catharine’s and St. Margaret’s,” says her dad, Steve Reynolds.

Here, Kelly Reynolds shares how growing up in Spring Lake shaped her creativity, her journey from local stages to the recording studio, and how she hopes to inspire others through her music.

When did you first realize music was something you wanted to pursue seriously?

I realized that I wanted to pursue music after my first real live show. It was right after I had joined Lakehouse Music Academy in Asbury Park. I remember getting together before the show to get to know my band and start working on our set, and it was the first time that I had fully seen my music come to life in real time. Before, it was just my guitar and me in my bedroom.

What are some of your earliest memories of performing?

I was part of my school and church choirs in Spring Lake for as long as I can remember, and I remember really loving the performances that we put on for our families. I also was a frequent national anthem singer for Princeton University. The first time I did this, I was

9 years old, and I can vividly remember the mix of nerves and excitement bundled up inside of me. Whenever I get nervous to perform now, I remind myself that if that little girl could do something so daunting, I can do anything.

How did growing up at the Jersey Shore influence your love of music and performing?

It was at Lakehouse Music Academy that I learned how to perform for a crowd, how to play with other musicians, and how to craft my sound. Jon Leidersdorff, the owner of the academy, took me under his wing as a singer/songwriter, and I could always count on him to help me out with whatever I needed, both related and unrelated to music. The community there is really amazing, and I am so grateful to be a part of it.

You started in student choruses and community theater at a young age. How did those experiences shape your approach to performing today?

Starting in student choruses and the Spring Lake Community Theatre gave me a foundation that goes far beyond technique, shaping how I connect with both my audience and collaborators. In chorus, I learned the value of blending voices rather than standing out, which taught me that music is just as much about listening as it is expression. Community theater, on the other hand, helped me realize that every song and performance has a narrative, and that conveying emotion authentically is wildly important. Additionally, I feel it was pivotal to my abilities as a performer on stage.

How did you first become involved in completing Jillian Ludwig’s song “Place”? Being a part of bringing Jillian’s song to

life is something that I will forever be grateful for. She was a huge role model to me. When I joined Lakehouse, she was known as a legend in the music scene, and her music taste was almost identical to mine. I watched the way that she performed, practiced, and worked a crowd, and I learned from it. After she passed, her family reached out to me with the idea of recording “Place,” and I agreed without hesitation. It is such an incredibly beautiful thing that was made in her honor and is something that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Working on Jillian’s song was unlike anything I’d done before—it wasn’t just about recording; it was about carrying someone else’s story with care. I wanted to make sure every note and lyric reflected who she was as an artist. It also reminded me why I make music in the first place: to connect with people and to keep their voices and emotions alive through sound. Being

trusted with something so meaningful was an honor, and it deepened my appreciation for how powerful music can be in preserving someone’s legacy.

Recording Jillian’s song made me realize that music isn’t just a form of expression; it’s a form of preservation. Music can be deeply healing, both for the artist and for those who listen. That understanding has made me approach my own songwriting with more honesty, care, and purpose.

What are your long-term goals as a musician?

Long term, I am interested in exploring how music can be used in psychology and therapy. I want to study the ways sound and songwriting can help people process emotions and build confidence, especially in young people. My goal is to combine my passion for music with my interest in psychology to make a real impact.

and Steve Reynolds

How has growing up in Spring Lake shaped who you are today, both personally and as a musician?

Spring Lake has always been a quiet, close-knit community, which gave me space to be reflective and creative. It’s where I learned the value of slowing down, listening, and finding beauty in small moments, all things that show up in my songwriting. The support I’ve received from local teachers, friends, and neighbors has made me feel confident pursuing music seriously.

How do you feel about representing Spring Lake in your music and career?

I feel proud to represent Spring Lake in my music because it’s where my love for performing truly began. It’s a small town, but it has a big heart, and I think that comes through in the way people support one another. I want to show that you don’t have to come from a huge city to make meaningful art; you just need passion and community. Whenever I release a new song or play a show, I think about the people here who encouraged me early on, and I hope I can make them proud by carrying a little piece of Spring Lake wherever I go.

To follow Kelly Reynolds and hear her songs, search Kelly Reynolds on Spotify, Apple Music, and all other major platforms.

Danielle Kutcher is a retired teacher and mom. She loves the theater, beach, and going on adventures with her family.

A STRONG Move

Turn any home space into a personal gym to help stick with your New Year’s fitness goals.

BY LIZ CLARK

WE ALL SET ambitious New Year’s resolutions; but staying consistent is the real challenge. One of the simplest ways to make fitness a habit? Designate a part of your home as your personal workout space. Even a small corner can make a big difference.

With more people working from home than ever, fitting in exercise has never been easier. Even 15 minutes counts, and eliminating the commute to a gym means you can hit your daily goals without feeling pressed for time.

Having a dedicated space helps you focus—no more navigating clutter or half-used equipment. With the right tools on hand, strength, cardio, and mobility routines become seamless and effective.

Liz Clark is the marketing director at Fitness Lifestyles, a retailer of premium outdoor furniture and fitness equipment.

Creating the perfect home gym requires thoughtful planning, including choosing the proper layout and equipment.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SETUP

Seeing equipment in person is key. Gear purchased online might be priced to attract customers, but it can be unreliable—or worse, go unused. It’s important to be able to test the quality of the equipment, pick the right pieces, and invest in brands and products that last.

Investing in quality equipment also increases motivation. When your gym looks professional and inviting, you actually want to use it. But a home gym isn’t about cramming in as much gear as possible. A few well-chosen pieces that align with your goals will be used repeatedly—and that consistency is what drives results.

It’s importatnt to start with the basics: flooring and storage. Proper gym flooring absorbs sound, protects your floors, and instantly gives your space a commercialgym vibe. Storage racks for weights and accessories keep everything organized, freeing up space and making workouts easier to start. An uncluttered, functional space isn’t just practical—it’s inspiring.

SEEK EXPERT ADVICE

Working with a knowledgeable local retailer can take the guesswork out of designing a home gym. For example, Fitness Lifestyles in Neptune has a deep understanding of what it takes.

Family-owned since 1984, it began with Leo Clark repairing equipment and grew into a business that helps people design spaces which improve health and well-being. Today, his children, Jack and Liz, run operations, offering free home consultations to determine what equipment fits your space and goals. The Fitness Lifestyles team also handles delivery, installation, and in-house service.

No matter your space or schedule, creating a thoughtfully designed personal gym at home can make sticking to your resolutions easier—and more enjoyable. With the proper layout, equipment, and professional guidance, the new year doesn’t have to be about wishful thinking. It can be about obtaining real results.

Share a Story

Make memories with loved ones this holiday season by bonding over a good book.

BY KATE CZYZEWSKI

“In the end, kids won’t remember that fancy toy you bought them, they will remember the time you spent with them.” —Kevin Heath, gospel artist and motivational speaker

SOME OF MY favorite memories are those spent with my grandparents around the holidays. As families of all kinds come together this time of year, there’s no better way to connect than over a book. Whether you’re discussing a plot at the dinner table or are selecting a present for someone special, here are some of our staff’s seasonal favorites, including read-alouds, gifts, and new classics that you’ll treasure for many holidays to come..

A VERY NEW YORK CHRISTMAS

By Sara Forster and Ella Beech

Children Kit and Olivia are anxiously waiting for their grandparents to arrive so they can have a special day in New York City. This book contains fun “lift the flap” pieces on each page that accompany the sites and sounds of a holiday experience in the city.

ALL-OF-A-KIND FAMILY HANUKKAH

By Emily Jenkins and Paul O. Zelinsky

Based on the original All-of-a-Kind

Family series by Sydney Taylor, this new, reimagined tale is perfect for young readers. It introduces a family in New York City in 1912 preparing for the holiday season. The youngest daughter may be too young to help prepare the latkes, but she is honored to light the first candle to kick off the Hanukkah celebrations.

AMAZING PEACE

By Maya Angelou

Based on the poem that Maya Angelou first read at the 2005 White House treelighting ceremony, this story comes alive as a fully illustrated children’s book celebrating the promise of peace in the holiday season. The gift of poetry is always a great choice, especially during the holidays.

AN ANTHOLOGY OF CHRISTMAS

By Auriol Bishop

This is one of the most stunning books

this season. Throughout, readers will find the history of why certain symbols, animals, and traditions are significant to the holidays, including everything from holly and reindeer to fruits and nuts to Northern cardinals. We learned so much reading this book.

THE CHRISTMAS LIGHT IN THE NIGHT

By Marie Voigt

This enchanting story of friendship is set against the backdrop of the holiday season. While hustling and bustling to get ready for their celebration, the characters learn how to “make even the darkest winter night twinkle with light.”

Additional Suggestions:

“Christmas Crimes at the Mysterious Bookshop,” edited by Otto Penzler; “Our Little Adventure at Christmas,” by Tabitha Paige; “The Gift of Everything,” by Patrick McDonnell; and “The Muttcracker,” by Anna Kemp and Sara Ogilvie

Kate Czyzewski is the general manager of Thunder Road Books and a former teacher. She is happy to offer her book recommendations to readers of all ages.

BEACHED BEAUTY

THE 32-FOOT CATALINA sailboat named Alestrom that ran aground on Sept. 20 in Sea Girt has been a favorite stop for local beach walkers and photographers over the past few months. Thanks for the many photo submissions of this unique sight. This shot was captured by Kate Silvester.

Have a great image for Photo Op?

Submit your high-resolution shot to brynn.coleman@ wainscotmedia.com.

Realtor