COOKIES FOR GOOD BAKER
love story began a thriving business. See inside the beauty and care of Lovelight Handmade.
The Love of Baking
Lake native Alexandra Evangelista’s business is rooted in creativity and inclusion.
The Sky Above Astrophotographer Jeff Kelly wants to show you the wonders of the universe. You just have to look up.
Photograph
by
Michelle Wolfe
aAHH, FEBRUARY: the gateway to spring. It is the shortest month of the year, perhaps because Mother Nature knew we could only handle so much. During these coldest weeks, many of our readers head to warmer climates for a mid-winter break, while many of our shopkeepers are just back from a January reprieve after the holiday retail crush.
While brief, the month offers plenty of charm right here at home. We are crossing our fingers for a few days of ice skating on the lake, and we look forward to celebrating Valentine’s Day by supporting our wonderful locally owned restaurants and shops. Be sure
to surprise loved ones with a sweet treat from one of our cherished chocolate shops in town. If you find yourself daydreaming of palm trees, consider our local boutiques your official pre-flight headquarters. Many of our shops have already bid farewell to winter wool in favor of spring and summer styles.
In this issue, we are proud to feature stories that celebrate the passion and creativity found right in our backyard. We explore the “meet-cute” and creative journey of Mike Considine and Olivia Abt of Lovelight Handmade, a sustainable candle and pottery brand born from a love story that began right here on the coast. Next, Spring Lake native Alexandra Evangelista shares how she blended her background in clinical mental health counseling with her lifelong love of baking. Through her business, Cookie Therapy, Evangelista is fostering inclusion through a partnership with the Blue Dot community, proving that a creative outlet can provide both sweetness and a sense of belonging. Finally, we profile local astronomer Jeff Kelly, whose childhood fascination with the North Star evolved into a 40-year passion. From the dark skies of Hawai'i to his own lawn in Sea Girt, Kelly shares his “astrophotographic masterpieces” and his mission to protect our night skies from light pollution. As the winter tends to slog along, just know that we are almost there. In three short months, we will be celebrating Memorial Day weekend! We got this.
Stay warm,
Brynn Coleman Publisher
MAGAZINE
Publisher and Editor
Brynn Coleman
Brynn.Coleman@wainscotmedia.com
Lead Writer and Editorial
Coordinator
Danielle Kutcher
Writers
Judith Jones-Ambrosini
Dallas Hlatky
Kate Czyzewski
Maria O’Donnell
Lead Photographer
Christina Lilly
Photographers
Michelle Wolfe
Vincent Dicks
Michael Cassella
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
Regional Publisher
Jodi Bruker
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
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 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
DENISE DREYER, Sales Associate
...Your Connection to the Jersey Shore cell 201.819.2604 | office 732.449.5959 ddreyer@wardwightsir.com
Company Top Producer
2025
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When temperatures fall, skaters of all ages break out their ice skates.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
ICE SKATING ON Spring Lake has long been a cherished winter tradition, transforming the lake into a gathering place for both kids and adults. When winter temperatures plunge and the lake freezes solid, residents lace up their skates and step onto the ice to create special memories. During an afternoon, onlookers can see skaters playing hockey, figure skating, or taking their first steps onto the ice. These cold winter day scenes are simply joyous. Beyond recreation, skating on Spring Lake brings family and friends together. Families introduce younger generations to one of their favorite pastimes while strengthening the community bond.
While ice skating can be magical, safety must always remain the top priority. Ice conditions can vary significantly depending on temperature, snowfall, wind, and water movement beneath the surface. Ice should be at least four inches thick to safely support a single skater, while five to six inches is recommended for larger groups. Clear, solid ice is typically stronger than ice that appears cloudy, cracked, or layered.
Temperature also plays a crucial role. Consistent temperatures of 24° degrees or lower for several consecutive days are usually required to form safe skating ice. Brief cold spells are often insufficient, as underlying water may
remain unstable. Additionally, warmer daytime temperatures can weaken ice quickly, making previously safe areas hazardous.
Before heading onto the ice, skaters in Spring Lake must check the posted signs around the lake, as well as the green or red flags on the flagpole, which signals whether it is safe or unsafe. A rope will be set up to mark off the area where skating is safe.
According to Bryan Dempsey, borough administrator: “The Borough tests the ice by drilling in certain areas. It must be at least five inches deep for safe group skating.”
Wearing proper winter gear
and skating with others are also recommended precautions. Additionally, children should only skate under close adult supervision. When approached responsibly, ice skating on Spring Lake can remain both a joyful and safe winter tradition. By staying informed, everyone can continue to enjoy the beauty, connection, and fun that skating on the lake brings to the community.
Danielle Kutcher is a retired elementary teacher and mom of three. She loves to read, walk on the beach, and go on adventures with her family.
Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe owner Joyce Harris finds new inspiration while maintaining the store’s rich traditions.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
INTERVIEW WITH JOYCE HARRIS
TRANSITIONING INTO ownership of an established local business requires careful balance. Joyce Harris, the owner of Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe, approached the transition with a strong understanding of customer loyalty and the importance of preserving products and processes. Harris continues to maintain the shop’s traditional offerings, while also weaving in her own flare. The business has continued to evolve without compromising its established identity or community trust.
What was it like taking over an established local business?
Taking over an established business came with a deep sense of responsibility. Because I started working at the shop when I was 14 years old, I understood the quaintness that made it so special. There was already so much love and history tied to the shop, so my goal was never to change what people cherished. Instead, I focused on honoring those traditions—the classic recipes, the old-fashioned techniques—while gently layering in my own creative touch. That was in refreshed displays, seasonal flavors, and small updates to the space that keeps it feeling bright and current, without losing its nostalgic charm.
Since taking over, what has surprised you most about being a shop owner in Spring Lake?
What’s surprised me most is how deeply connected the shop is to people’s lives. This isn’t just a place to buy candy; it’s part of their memories, their holidays, and their traditions. Being trusted with that is incredibly meaningful, and it’s something I never take lightly.
What is the best part about being a local Spring Lake chocolatier?
The best part is being part of a small, close-knit community where relationships really matter. I grew up in town, and I love knowing my customers by name, remembering their favorite treats, and being able to give back to the town that made me who I am today. There’s something really special about creating something by hand and sharing it with people who genuinely appreciate it.
Which item is your favorite to make?
My favorite items to make are the classic, old-fashioned pieces, the ones that require patience and a little bit of finesse. Caramels, in particular, are incredibly rewarding. They’re also some of the most technically challenging because timing and temperature have to be just right. When they come out perfectly, it’s so satisfying.
Is chocolate still a classic Valentine’s gift?
Chocolate is absolutely still a Valentine’s classic. What I see most often is people looking for something that feels personal like beautiful assortments, thoughtfully packaged boxes, and pieces that feel indulgent and special. Shoppers want a gift that feels heartfelt, not generic.
Which classic item has become the most popular?
Our rooster legs are a huge favorite. They’re pretzel rods dipped in caramel, rolled in Rice Krispies, and then dipped in chocolate. Caramel turtles and sea salt caramels are also top repeat purchases. There’s a comfort in those familiar flavors that keep customers returning.
How do local cravings change moving from winter into the warmer months?
As the weather warms up, people gravitate toward lighter, brighter flavors. We see a big shift toward fruit-filled chocolates, gummy candy, and ice cream that we have available starting in May. Summer brings a whole different energy, and customers love chocolates, candies, and treats that feel a little more playful and seasonal.
What new products are you currently developing for spring?
When I think about spring at the shop, it is all about Easter and Mother’s Day. For Easter, think chocolate bunnies, peanut butter, and coconut cream filled eggs, and all the nostalgic must haves.
For Mother’s Day, we lean into the fresh fruit covered in chocolates. I love using the change of seasons as an opportunity to introduce something new while still staying rooted in our classic style. It keeps the shop feeling exciting but familiar.
Check out these local spots for a Valentine’s Day night out.
VALENTINE’S DAY is synonymous with romance, often sparking a search for the perfect dinner spot. At the Jersey Shore, several standout locations offer the ideal atmosphere for a celebratory evening out.
In Spring Lake proper, Spring Lake Seafood is a perennial favorite. Known for its “fresh-caught-in-house” menu, the restaurant pairs its high-quality offerings with candlelight and a sophisticated atmosphere. A standout choice is the “Chutoro Caviar” appetizer, featuring a fresh piece of ahi tuna topped with a generous portion of premium caviar and served over
BY MARIA O’DONNELL
the restaurant’s signature seasoned rice. It is a decadent start to a special occasion dinner. 1300 3rd Ave., Spring Lake, NJ, 07762.
Just north of town, in Belmar, Brandl features creative American cuisine from Chef/Owner Chris Brandl. For Valentine’s Day, the restaurant is offering a romantic a la carte menu highlighted by interactive entrees. For a memorable table-side experience, try the “Smoked and Shared” plate, which utilizes a specialized smoke gun and glass dome to provide a dramatic reveal of the dish. 703 Belmar Plaza, Belmar, NJ, 07719.
For those seeking a coastal view, the AP Rooftop in Asbury Park overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and features a premier cocktail program. The bar is known for its skilled staff and an extensive wine list featuring authentic Champagnes and sparkling rosés by the glass. A signature experience is the Belvedere 10 Dirty Martini, which arrives on a custom Belvedere platform with a side of fried olives and a sidecar. 1200 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, NJ, 07712.
For a more intimate setting, Judy & Harry’s offers a cozy vibe designed for couples. Founded by Top Chef alum David Viana and Neilly Robinson, the restaurant and bar are named in honor of Robinson’s parents. The cocktail menu relies on house-made tinctures and expert technique; a long-standing favorite is the “White Lady,” a classic and visually striking choice. 408 7th Ave., Asbury Park, NJ, 07712.
To the south, La Mondina in Brielle remains a local staple for its vibrant atmosphere and consistent quality. The menu features delectable raw crudos that change monthly and a selection of premium Pat LaFrieda steaks, which are ideal for sharing with a date. 110 Union Ave., Brielle, NJ, 08730.
Maria O’Donnell is a food, wine, and events writer who has contributed to many popular publications over the last 15 plus years. She lives in Spring Lake with her husband Brendan and their two children, Annabelle and Bubba.
BY DALLAS HLATKY
MMONMOUTH COUNTY has a certain way of attracting newcomers so that they never leave. Take, for instance, the story of Mike Considine and Olivia Abt, founders of Lovelight Handmade on Main Street in Bradley Beach. Mike, a Sea Girt native, first laid eyes on Olivia, originally from Stamford, Connecticut, while visiting a friend at the University of Vermont. Ironically, Olivia doesn’t remember meeting Mike. However, a couple years later, Olivia was visiting a friend in Asbury Park, Mike ran into her again, and their love story began. What also sprung out from this love story is Lovelight Handmade, a sustainable candle and pottery brand with a devoted and far-flung customer base.
Back to their meet-cute. It was the summer that Mike was driving for Wally’s, known as “The Goldman Sachs of Transportation.” He was
given a last minute and highly rare night off, “which was crazy, so I ended up going to Asbury and running into Olivia and our friend Ava, who also grew up in Sea Girt,” he says. They connected and fell in love, though Olivia was still living in Vermont. It was long distance, but not for long. “I was living in Vermont, working remotely,” Olivia says. “And said, ‘I guess I’ll come down for the summer and live with [Mike] in AP. If it works, I’ll stay.’”
That was 2019. It worked. She stayed. “We did everything fast since the beginning of the relationship, sink or swim. We kept on swimming, and here we are!” says Mike. Olivia adds: “I don’t think we would have grown as fast as we have as a couple unless we had started a company together.” The two have a way of going all-in. Speaking of swimming, the ocean has a lot to do with how Monmouth County draws so many folks in. “I traded the mountains
for the ocean. I never really had a relationship with the water, but dating Mike who has been surfing ever since he could walk, I picked up surfing and it’s become a huge part of my life,” says Olivia.
Another perk? The amazing community Mike and Olivia have found. Olivia’s favorite thing about this area, besides the ocean, and Mike, of course, is the community
of entrepreneurs and makers doing their own thing.
At the time they met, Olivia was working and pursuing a graduate degree in counseling. Mike had a background in carpentry and was working for Andrew Grossman Custom Fabrications, where he found himself managing giant
project installations in New York. He had always found satisfaction in working with his hands, but the opportunity to oversee big projects gave him confidence.
“I was entrepreneurially curious,” he says. “Energetically, that got me moving, thinking about how I could create value in an everyday product.” He settled on refillable candles, after finding there was a gap in the market. In the beginning, he approached it with a spirit of experimentation. “I expected to learn a lot. Even if I threw a couple thousand dollars at it and lost it all, I’d have a pretty good education.”
Olivia jumped in too, and they hit the ground running. It was 2020, and they took all the newfound time afforded to them by the pandemic shutdowns and poured themselves into their burgeoning business. They came to the candle market with a focus on sustainability: creating beautiful, non-toxic objects made from local materials meant to be cherished and reused for a lifetime.
Mike had originally envisioned his sustainable candles in glass jars, but something was missing.
“I was used to making things with my hands, and design and craft was not an itch being scratched,” he says. Olivia’s mom is a potter. She suggested we make our own vessels for the refillable candles. We started messing around in her studio, using slabs. There was a lot of overlap with woodworking. After those few
beginning sessions, I knew that clay was what I wanted to do. I had always hoped for a moment like that.”
In their early days, they built their business doing farmer and maker markets—part of how they met so many other entrepreneurs they now call friends. But, inspired by glassblower Simon Pierce in Vermont, they dreamed of having a combined showroom and studio space. In 2023, the same year they got married, they opened their own storefront and studio in Bradley Beach. With more space, and without having to pack up their wares and bring them to market every weekend, they have been able to expand their pottery practice and offerings. They were even commissioned to make all the plateware for a new restaurant opening in Princeton.
Terra Earth + Surf in Spring Lake was their first wholesale account. “Kerry was the first person to say ‘I want your stuff.’ She literally explained how wholesale business worked. She has been championing us since the beginning.”
Lovelight is also carried in stores as far as Tennessee, North Carlina, and California. And they offer workshops, private lessons, and private events in their space.
Talking to Mike and Olivia, their passion and energy for their work together is obvious and contagious. But not everyone could work with their spouse on their dream project. “When it’s good it’s the best; when it’s hard, it’s the hardest thing ever,” says Mike. When asked how they manage, they mention preventative therapy, learning quickly, and prioritizing their relationship over the business, always.
Olivia adds, “It’s really, really, hard, but it’s so much fun. For us, it works really well. We get to spend a lot of time together. We get to do cool things. That’s the dream.” To live your dream in Monmouth County: Who could ask for anything more?
Visit Lovelight Handmade at 57 Main St. Suite 3, Bradley Beach. Open Thursdays through Sundays. Shop online at www.lovelighthandmade.com.
Dallas Hlatky is a writer, artist, and creator of the product-based business Merle Works, based in Asbury Park. Find more of her work at www.merle.works.
and inclusion.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
FFOR MANY PEOPLE, cookies are simply a sweet treat, but for Alexandra Evangelista, they are so much more. They are a way to bring joy, connection, and even a little therapy to everyone who enjoys them.
Her love of baking began at age 11 during a simple moment in her kitchen.
“I remember coming home from dance practice one Friday afternoon, making a smoothie, and realizing that the process of creating something out of nothing sparked something inside me,” Alex recalls. From that moment, her passion grew, nurtured by the therapeutic and creative process and hours watching the Food Network. That creativity was encouraged by her parents, Marc and Cary, from the start, as they never discouraged her cooking or baking in any way.
With great-grandparents who owned Lindemer’s Bakery in Newark and Dover, New Jersey, it’s no surprise that baking had become a passion for Alex. Her first professional experience came at age 14, when her father Marc, a retired Spring Lake Police Captain, introduced her to the late Debbie Buruchian at “The Scone Pony” in Spring Lake. Debbie hired Alex, who spent nearly a decade working for the family, first in a counter position and then as a baker.
“I have so much love for the Buruchian family and for the bakery. They truly became a second family to me,” Alex says.
Spring Lake itself shaped Alex both personally and professionally. She grew up on Jersey Avenue and fondly remembers having the greatest childhood imaginable. “Two blocks from town, two blocks from school, riding my bike everywhere, waving to
everyone passing by. There was this sense that nobody was a stranger here.”
Alex is thankful for Spring Lake’s charm and strong sense of community, which inspires her to continue to give back.
Alex pursued a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Monmouth University. All the while, baking remained her constant, as well as a therapeutic outlet. She worked as a school-based mental health therapist before transitioning into a therapist position at a local
private practice. However, Alex had a loud voice in the back of her mind telling her to go all in on baking. She was hesitant, holding on to that traditional mindset that a steady, reliable job equaled a good life.
In 2020, during the upheaval of the pandemic, she decided she could not ignore that voice in her head telling her to turn her passion into a business, and “Cookie Therapy” officially launched in April 2021.
Alex has always loved spending time at Divine Park and the Spring Lake Beach with her mom Cary, dad Marc, older sister Nina, and beloved golden retriever Taylor. This close-knit crew has always inspired her to bake with joy.
“I came up with the name “Cookie Therapy” not only because I am a licensed therapist, but even more so because decorating cookies to me is simply therapeutic. It’s meditative, and I zone out and just focus on creating edible art,” Alex explains. Along with her successful cookie business, Alex stayed in the mental health field until her son Luke was born in 2024. Becoming a mother inspired her to take the leap into full-time entrepreneurship, which made her the happiest.
Alex’s business has grown into more than just cookies. In November 2025, she hired Marissa, who is a “Blue Dot” community member. “Blue Dot” is a community program started by Alex’s childhood best friend Chrissy D’Amico that promotes health, wellness, and belonging to individuals with neuro and developmental differences. These individuals are connected to meaningful work through the program, which is how Marissa came to Alex and “Cookie Therapy.”
“Marissa brings such positive energy,” Alex says. “She joins me once each week with the
help of her job coach, who is another Occupational Therapist.”
Most recently, Marrisa and Alex worked together to design a set of cookies that were sold at the “Blue Dot” holiday market. Marisa did a great job helping the customers and selling the boxes—which sold out.
“It is so fulfilling for me to now be able to bridge my work as a mental health counselor and a baker, providing an opportunity for meaningful work in a calm and safe environment while learning important life skills.”
Alex and “Cookie Therapy” stand as a testament to creativity, courage, and community. “I hope every cookie we make brings smiles to people’s faces and makes their events just a touch sweeter.”
To learn more about “Cookie Therapy,” visit www.cookietherapynj.com.
For more information on “Blue Dot,” visit www.bluedotcommunity.org.
Astrophotographer Jeff Kelly wants to show you the wonders of the universe. You just have to look up.
BY JUDITH JONES-AMBROSINI
JJEFF KELLY BECAME interested in the wonders of the sky as a child. Born and raised in Rutherford, New Jersey, he recalls times when his brother, John, would take him out to their backyard at night and point upward. He showed him the Big Dipper and the North Star. It seemed magical and mysterious to Jeff. One Christmas, he received the greatest gift, a telescope. This simple device ignited a lifelong interest in astronomy. That first telescope enabled him to discover all kinds of stars, planets, nebulae, asteroids, and galaxies. Over the years, he obtained more sophisticated telescopes, which empowered him to delve deeper into studying the wonders of the heavens.
Kelly’s 40-year career in electronic communications with ADP was both interesting and adventurous.
It sometimes required traveling to fascinating places. One of his favorites was Hawai’i; Kelly has visited the islands dozens of times. Granted, some of the visits were for business. However, each time Kelly was in Hawai’i, he was sure to make time to stargaze and to look up at the wondrous canopy of night sky and brilliant lights. Hawai’i is one of the few spots on Earth that still has dark skies unfettered by light pollution. Light pollution is the harsh, glaring light from cities and suburban areas that clouds the beauty of the night sky.
In the early 1990s, Jeff and his family moved to Sea Girt, where he set up his telescope on the lawn. After retirement in 2017, he had the luxury of time to explore the sky in even greater depth. His arsenal of tools contains a tripod, mount, telescope, camera and computer. These tools enable him to capture
Through the use of smart telescopes and image-stacking software, Kelly transforms faint celestial light into “astrophotographic masterpieces” for his book, “The Sky Above.”
astrophotographic masterpieces.
“My night sky photo album is a visual odyssey that transcends earthly confines, capturing the ethereal beauty that graces the celestial canvas above,” Kelly says. He put together an awe-inspiring book, “The Sky Above.”
“With the naked eye, an astronomer can view meteor showers, space stations, and enhanced views of the of our universe,” Kelly says. “Just as we have smartphones today, the astronomy world makes use of smart telescopes and astronomical software with the ability to stack pictures for better clarity. Oftentimes, the casual astronomer has a telescope and gets frustrated by not being able to find anything in the sky. Smart telescopes simplify the search.
One can select a deep target on an astronomy app, and the telescope goes to it and starts stacking multiple pictures of it for review or posting on social media.”
In addition to these devices, astronomy clubs and organizations have popped up all over. There are even “star parties” for those interested in exchanging their discoveries and aspirations.
Kelly is interested in educating youth about astronomy. He looks forward to teaching a “stargazing night” on the Sea Girt boardwalk in conjunction with the Sea Girt Library. Perhaps seeing the North Star and Big Dipper, as he did as a child, will spark an interest in others as they gaze up at the magical canopy above Sea Girt. He also speaks about the importance of mindful outdoor
lighting. Kelly reminds local residents to be aware of light pollution.
“It’s a simple thing to do. Aim your outdoor lights down to the earth, not up toward the sky,” he says. “After all, the beauty of the dark skies above Sea Girt is not merely a display of distant stars for us to enjoy, but a reminder of the vastness of the universe.”
Judith Jones-Ambrosini: Judith is a Sea Girt resident, author of “The Sisterhood of Diabetes,” journalist, member of the Holly Club of Sea Girt, and cofounder of Shore Writers.
Town Appliance knows how to make a house feel like a home.
BY DANIEL KRAFTMANN
KITCHENS IN 2026 are defined by intention, craftsmanship, and appliances that feel as refined as the spaces around them. For decades, Town Appliance has guided homeowners and design professionals throughout the tri-state area and beyond toward luxury choices that balance style with exceptional user experience. From its roots in Lakewood, New Jersey to its boutique
showrooms and well-designed online experience, the company remains a trusted source for premium home appliances.
A modern kitchen refresh starts with appliances selected for luxury, performance, and visual cohesion. Town Appliance presents a focused collection of high-end refrigeration, cooking, and cleaning solutions that support contemporary living while remaining visually timeless. The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove family delivers a unified kitchen experience built around daily use and long-term satisfaction. Sub-Zero refrigeration supports thoughtful food care with
controlled environments that help ingredients maintain quality and consistency. Wolf cooking appliances offer responsive performance and intuitive control that supports both everyday meals and more involved cooking. Cove dishwashers complete the suite with quiet operation, flexible interiors, and a design that blends into the kitchen perfectly. For clients drawn to a contemporary aesthetic, Fisher & Paykel offers integrated refrigeration and streamlined dishwashing solutions designed to blend into the architecture of the kitchen itself. The look is calm, cohesive, and thoughtfully modern. Miele applies precision engineering across their cooking, refrigeration, and cleaning appliances, with an emphasis on long-term luxury and performance. Clean design, intuitive controls, and consistent performance make Miele well suited for kitchens where function and refined aesthetics carry equal importance.
Town Appliance pairs its curated selection with knowledgeable guidance and in-house service support that extends long after installation. Designers, builders, and homeowners return for advice grounded in experience and service shaped around real life use. A 2026 kitchen refresh deserves more than beautiful appliances. It deserves confidence in every choice, and Town Appliance continues to deliver just that.
Town Appliance is a leading retailer of luxury and ordinary appliance brands.
Visit Town Appliance at 10 S. Clifton Ave. in Lakewood or online at www.townappliance.com.
Lean into the season of love with these books.
BY KATE CZYZEWSKI
“LOVE HAS NOTHING to do with what you are expecting to get–only with what you are expecting to give–which is everything.” –Katharine Hepburn
Show the special people in your life how much you care by grabbing a book that just screams, “I love you!”
For our younger readers…..
“DREAM BIG (CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG)”
by Robyn Makings
We can never get enough of Clifford the Big Red Dog. Readers young and old have long treasured Clifford. In this new story, he shares his dreams of growing up and learning. This would make a great gift for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, a
graduation, or back to school, too!
“A STICKLER VALENTINE” by Lane
Smith
I love Stickler! The next installment in Stickler’s adventures is tackling Valentine’s Day for his friends. Author Lane Smith created Stickler, a woodland “creature” made of sticks who oversees his animal friends in the forest. He tries to give his friends gifts that he personally loves, however, he learns to listen to other’s needs to show acts of kindness and love.
“VALENTINE’S
by
Alex Willan
Another character we know and love. Our “worst” character, Gilbert, is back with his grumpy feelings associated
with Valentine’s Day. Hanging out with lovebirds? Yuck. Getting caught in Cupid’s antics? Absolutely not. Like all of Gilbert’s books, readers learn not to “yuck someone’s yum” and allow others to embrace things that spark joy!
For our older readers…..
“WUTHERING
by Charlotte Bronte
This book, to me, is one of those books we all say we’ve read, and maybe we did? In high school? If ever there was a time to jump at the chance for a reread, now is that time! With the much anticipated movie releasing Feb. 13 this year, just in time for Valentine’s Day, revisit the sweeping, turbulent love story of Catherine and Heathcliff! Thunder Road Books has a newly released gift edition that is just stunning!
by Jennifer L. Armentrout and others…
This is a super fun concept of a book! Think of an advent calendar but make it Valentine’s Day. There are 14 chapters of love stories. Each day, you open the perforated chapter to unlock the next short story! Stories include a reality show, a house party, a missed flight, and so much more!
Kate Czyzewski is the general manager of Thunder Road Books and a former teacher. She is happy to offer book recommendations for readers of all ages!
THE MANASQUAN High School Varsity Ice Hockey Team celebrates taking the crown at the Winding River Holiday Tournament in Toms River over Christmas break.
Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to brynn.coleman@ wainscotmedia.com.
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
KW Tri-State Region: #1YTD Closed Units and Volume in the month of May out of 9,000 agents
LISTED –
4 BD, 2.5 BA expanded cape in the very desired beach town of SEA GIRT. Only 8 blocks to Sea Girt’s pristine beaches and boardwalk! The home features a large family room with hardwood floors, centered around a cozy gas fireplace, flowing seamlessly into a bright dining area and kitchen. The versatile bedroom wing offers the potential for a private primary ensuite on the first floor. Upstairs, discover a generous bedroom complete with expansive his-and-her walk-in closets as well as another bedroom with a large walk-in closet. Additional features include a large 2-car detached garage and a massive unfinished basement providing endless storage or finishing potential. The OVERSIZED 50x185 lot provides ample space for a future pool, patio, firepit and cabana. $1,899,000
Premier custom luxury modern coastal home by a well-known Ocean & Monmouth County builder. This exceptional 6BR, 6.5BA new construction offers an expansive open layout with a striking stair tower offering abundant natural light. Gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, Quartz counters and premium Thermador appliances flows seamlessly into the main living and dining areas. Designed for elevated entertaining with a spacious recreation room featuring an overhead door and wet bar, plus versatile flex space and a four-stop elevator-ready shaft. Enjoy resort-style outdoor living with a heated, large, saltwater POOL and paver patio with Southern exposure. Superior craftsmanship, high-end finishes, and timeless coastal design throughout all while being just 1.5 blocks to the beach. $2,899,000
2019-2017 - GOLD | 2014 - SILVER 2015 - 2016 - BRONZE HELPING
Cell: (732) 221-5673 | MeganSchnurr@gmail.com | MeganSS.kw.com
