A hyper-focused community magazine that tells the stories of the people and places of Spring Lake. Do you know a story we should tell or know someone who should sponsor? Email us ron.schrader@strollmag.com
MARCH 2025
Spring Lake
2025 POLICE UNITY TOUR RIDING IN HONOR OF SGT. STEVE BLECKI THE SPRING LAKE POLICE DEPARTMENT MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS
COVER BY CHRIS KUCINSKI
TURN-KEY CONSTRUCTION HISTORIC RESTORATIONS
stephenclarkdesignbuild.com 732.859.0764
Stroll Spring Lake 3 est. 1996
2 March 2025
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PUBLISHER
Spring Lake Police Spring Lake Borough Hall Borough Administrative Offices First Aid Squad
Ron Schrader | ron.schrader@strollmag.com C: 732-859-1781 Katie Schrader | strollspringlake@gmail.com C: 732-232-5164
EDITOR
STROLL SPRING LAKE CONTRIBUTORS
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Ruth Crawford
Writers
Ruth Crawford Julia McCarthy Bill McKim Jr. Katie Schrader - Editor Shauna Osborne - National Editor
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Matthew Breen, Ruth Crawford
CREATIVE TEAM
The N2 Company Design Team
Photographers
Ruth Crawford Michael Scotto - MJ Scotto Photography
DISCLAIMER: This publication is owned by The N2 Company and is not affiliated with or sponsored by any club, developer, or homeowners association. Articles and advertisements in this publication and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 but remain solely those of the author(s) or advertiser(s). The paid advertisements contained within this magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2. We’re proud to showcase businesses that share our commitment to fostering local connections. When perusing our pages, keep an eye out for the “Local Sponsor” icon to identify articles highlighting these valuable partners. Please note that businesses profiled may have provided free products and / or services for the review.
Cover by Chris Kucinski
We want to hear your family’s story. Email ron.schrader@strollmag.com with submissions.
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4 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 5
This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!
ANIMAL/VETERINARY HOSPITAL Atlantic Veterinary Hospital Dr. Rick Baumgartner (732) 444-3686 atlanticvh.com
GUTTERS LeafFilter
Diane Turton Realtors Susan Miller
National Sponsor (833) 380-2581 LeafFilter.com/StrollBloom
(732) 539-6414 dianeturton.com
Diane Turton Realtors Cindy Napp (732) 859-7808 cindynapphomes.com ReMax Revolution Justin Bosak (732) 644-6217 revolutionnjhomes.com
AUTOMOTIVE DEALERSHIP Brogan Cadillac of Totowa (201) 303-8103 www.brogancadillac.com
HEALTH/WELLNESS Best Coverage Sandy Essex (847) 695-6690 bestltcadvice.com
BANKING SERVICES Manasquan Bank Cari Horn
INSURANCE HUB W. Stuart Patterson (908) 790-6820 www.hubinternational.com
(732) 974-4050 manasquan.bank
Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty Michael Skea (732) 272-5898 michaelskea.wardwight.com
TD Bank Oxana Insull (732) 974-1753 www.td.com
Maury Donnelly & Parr, Inc. (410) 547-3188
SALON/SPA Spruce Salon & Spa Jackie Crawford (732) 282-0333 sprucesalonnj.com
INSURANCE AGENCY Danskin Agency John Casagrande (732) 556-7657 danskin-agency.com
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Sitar Realty Company
William Sitar Sr. (732) 283-9000 sitarcompany.com
TUTORING/EXAM PREP MST Tutoring Glenn Kliemisch (732) 722-7964 www.msttutoring.com WINE/SPIRITS/BEER Egan’s Wine & Liquors Joe Egan (732) 449-7090 eganswineandliquors.com YACHT SALES Schrader Yacht Sales Kevin Schrader (848) 333-4479 schraderyachts.net
POWER WASHING Coastal Cleaning Crew TJ Hale (732) 449-1122 thecoastalcleaningcrew.com
CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Clark Design Build Stephen Clark (732) 859-0764 www.stephenclarkdesignbuild.com
REAL ESTATE Berkshire Hathaway -The Brian Church Group Brian Church (732) 449-0671 brianchurchgroup.com
Louro Development Group Jim Louro (732) 547-8290 lourodevgroup.com
FASHION Faherty Brand
Century 21 Danskin Agency Dave Angelini (732) 685-3146
(848) 469-8829 fahertybrand.com
6 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 7
L ast month, I reflected on childhood memories of skating on the lake. Never expecting that just weeks later those memories would come to life. This January, a polar vortex brought something we haven’t seen in years—a frozen lake, thick enough for skating. Kids raced home from school to test the ice, many “skating” in their shoes until they could find proper skates. The weekend was a nonstop, magical rush of families savoring every moment. We’ve included a spread of past and present photos so we can all relive the experience. This month, we also highlight two causes close to home. The Police Unity Publisher’s Note
brought people together. With whales now appearing off our coast more than ever, we wanted to explore this phenomenon. Thanks to Bill McKim Sr. and Jr. of Jersey Shore Whale Watching for sharing their expertise and photos. None of this happens without you— our sponsors, readers, and storytellers. Stroll Spring Lake celebrates what makes this town feel like home, one story at a time. So, grab a coffee, find a cozy spot, and enjoy. And if you have a story to share, we’d love to hear it.
Tour, which honors fallen officers, is especially meaningful this year as it recognizes former Spring Lake Police Sgt. Steve Blecki. Meanwhile, Trinity Hall student Julia McCarthy is raising funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), rallying her community to make a difference. Sometimes, an unexpected moment or memory sparks a story idea. A few years ago, Katie was running over the Belmar Bridge when she saw dozens of people lined up, staring at the ocean. Two whales surfaced just offshore. She turned back to follow them, calling me to meet her on the boardwalk. It was our first time seeing a whale in person, and what struck us most was how it
All the best, Ronnie Schrader
8 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 9
Photo by Michael Scotto
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Photo by Michael Scotto
Photo by Michael Scotto
Your Local Real Estate Experts
David Angelini Broker of Record 1937 Highway 35 Wall, NJ 07719
Spruce Salon & Spa introduces Dr. George Peck Jr., MD for Dysport, Restylane & Sculptra
EVENT SCHEDULE • Saturday, March 8th- Police Unity Tour Fundraiser: 3pm Bar-A, Belmar • Saturday, March 29th -Stock the Lake with Trout: 9:30am Spring Lake by Mercer Ave. • Saturday, April 5th- Trout Contest for Kids: 8 am- 1:30pm Spring Lake • April (various dates)- “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”- Spring Lake Theatre • Thursday, May 8th- Citizen of the Year Celebration: 6pm Breakers on the Ocean
Serving Spring Lake and the surrounding communities.
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Photo by Matthew Dayton
10 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 11
FOR A GOOD CAUSE
Fighting For a Future without Cancer
Team Teens Tackling Cancer
BY JULIA MCCARTHY - STUDENT WRITER
E very day, families across the world hear the life-altering words: “You have cancer.” For those battling leukemia and lymphoma, the journey ahead is filled with uncertainty, resilience, and hope. Organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) stand at the forefront of this fight, funding
UNITING FOR A CAUSE This winter, our team will host bake sales, send out weekly emails and updates to advocate for blood cancer, and encourage donations to raise money. The most rewarding part is the messages people send along with their donation. Many people express the significance of their contribution and what it means to them. They tell us their personal experience with cancer and how it has affected them to want to help others. It is empowering to know the shared experiences between people. Through our fundraising, we hope to continue to spread awareness and develop a united community. I aspire to change a family’s life for good. I want the money I raise to support a family, so they can receive the care they need and ease their mind as much as possible. For other teens who want to support nonprofits, I urge you to not be afraid to reach out to others and to ask anyone you know to contribute. The overwhelming support from my community has shown me that if something is important to me, it is important to someone else. Take the jump and speak for what you believe. TAKE ACTION. CHANGE LIVES. The fight against cancer requires collective action, and every contribution makes a difference. To support fundraising efforts for LLS, donations can be made through https:// events.lls.org/snj/svoysouthnj25/JMcCarthy. Additionally, updates on fundraisers and progress can be found on
Team Captains: Lily O’Connor, Maddy Plank, and Lucia Holt
research and offering support to patients and their loved ones. This year, I have taken on the mission of raising awareness and funds for LLS through the Student Visionaries program with fellow classmates from Trinity Hall. A PERSONAL FIGHT AGAINST CANCER LLS is a nonprofit organization committed to curing blood cancers and improving the lives of patients and families. Its impact is driven by fundraising efforts that support cutting-edge research and provide financial assistance to those affected. The Student Visionaries program empowers high school students to become leaders, taking charge of fundraising initiatives to contribute to this crucial cause. For me, the fight against cancer is deeply personal. This past December, my cousin was diagnosed, and in the face of this challenge, she remained positive, demonstrating the strong and beautiful person she is. As someone who spreads love and kindness to others, she and her family’s strength have inspired me to help. I am a visionary for my cousin, her younger brothers, and my aunt and uncle. As a member of Team Teens Tackling Cancer, we are working to reach an ambitious $100,000 fundraising goal.
Instagram at @teenstacklingcancer_th. This year, the South Jersey campaign runs until March 15th. There is still time to make a difference. Spreading the message and rallying support brings the goal of a cancer-free future one step closer.
Donate Today!
12 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 13
them to cancer. She also fears the environmental impact on wildlife and pollinators like bees. “Our beach front is where my family disconnects from technology and connects with family, friends, and nature. Our hope is to continue to enjoy Spring Lake in good health and remain tower free.”
and wildlife health. Local birds are given sanctuary nearby, but officials’ hands are tied when Verizon pushes beyond reasonable parameters. This is no different than the windmills in our oceans, which have fortunately been banned.” LAURA DEMEO, SLA5GT SENIOR TEAM Laura DeMeo, an athlete and longtime resident, worries the towers will permanently alter Spring Lake’s charm and tranquility. “Once they’re up, there’s no turning back,” she warns. Laura and her 8-year-old son have been actively involved in the cause, from distributing signs to attending borough meetings. For her, this is about protecting the environment and public health. “My son is my reminder every day of why this cause is so important.” JUDI KEEFE, SPRING LAKE RESIDENT A resident for over four decades, Judi fondly remembers dancing with her husband Tom at the Warren, Monmouth, and “E&S.” She highlights Spring Lake’s historic and cultural significance as a main reason for concern over the proposed towers. “Spring Lake’s scenic streets, hotels, homes, and boardwalk have all been featured in classic films like Ragtime with James Cagney and Once Upon a Time in America with Robert DeNiro. Our town feels like it belongs to a different time; a time when nature and beauty were prioritized through calm and quiet. These towers would destroy that,” she notes.
BY KATIE SCHRADER - EDITOR Spring Lake Against 5G Towers
S pring Lake residents cherish their town’s charm, history, and natural beauty. Many have deep generational ties, while others fell in love with its peaceful streets, friendly neighbors, and pristine beaches. Whether it’s watching their children bike to the library, gathering for beach days, or experiencing the joy of skating on the frozen lake, they all share a profound appreciation for what makes Spring Lake unique. But now, they find themselves fighting to preserve it against the installation of 5G towers along Ocean Avenue. We interviewed several residents involved with the grassroots organization “Spring Lake Against 5G Towers” (SLA5GT) who are committed to stopping the installation to protect Spring Lake’s coastline and community.
Since its start, SLA5GT has grown into a 300-member- strong grassroots organization, standing in solidarity as the town now battles Verizon’s lawsuit against them. “We recently filed as ‘intervenor-defendants’ to ensure the residents have a seat at the table. This is a cause worth fighting for.” YOLANDA ELENA, SLA5GT SENIOR TEAM Yolanda Elena recently returned from living in California to Spring Lake to raise her family in her childhood home while helping her parents. This fall, she was shocked to learn a 5G tower could be placed dangerously close to their home. “This isn’t just about my family—it’s about all the children who play on our beaches and in the Pavilion pools. These towers don’t belong in a place where so many could be exposed to the potential risks of 5G radiation,” she says. Yolanda met Kelley at a town hall meeting and has since been working to fight Verizon’s plan. “Kelley is extraordinary. She’s admirable, dedicated, and someone I am now proud to call a friend.”
Joe Rizzo
JOE RIZZO, SPRING LAKE RESIDENT AND PRESIDENT OF THE PRESERVATION ALLIANCE Joe first learned of the 5G plans last fall when he and Barbara Kolarsick Harrigan, President of the Historical Center, received a letter from Terracon requesting input. Concerned about the impact on the town’s historic character, Rizzo responded with a letter outlining the potential harm to landmarks, including The Essex & Sussex, The Breakers, and the Ocean Avenue Gates to name only a few. “Spring Lake’s earliest planners mandated that no structures be located within the parkland surrounding Devine Park and the lake. This planning extended to the beach and boardwalk to keep them uncluttered. This proposal threatens that legacy,” he said. Joe also identified other historic hotels, the North and South Pavilions, as well as several homes that could qualify for National Register status, which these towers could jeopardize. Joe’s expertise in preservation has been invaluable to SLA5GT. EVERYONE CAN HELP Spring Lake residents aren’t opposed to technological advancement, but they refuse to let it come at the expense of their town’s integrity, health, and history. They are prepared to stand together, ensuring that the community’s voice is heard against intrusive infrastructure that threatens everything they love about their town. To learn more, volunteer, donate to the Legal Defense Fun, sign-up for their newsletter, or order a lawn sign for the Spring Lake Against 5G Towers, please visit their website at www.SpringLakeAgainst5GTowers.com.
Kelley Badishkanian & Yolanda Elena
KELLEY BADISHKANIAN, FOUNDER OF SLA5GT Kelley founded SLA5GT after learning of Verizon’s proposal to install six massive towers along the beachfront. For her, the fight is about preserving the town’s aesthetic and environmental integrity. “These industrial towers would be a permanent blight on Spring Lake’s landscape,” she says. She is also concerned about health risks, citing a lack of comprehensive long-term studies on 5G radiation exposure. “I am grateful to live in such a loving community, and I feel a responsibility to pass along this beautiful place to the next generations, to my children’s children.”
Dr. Robert Hendrickson
Gina Lu
DR. ROBERT HENDRIKSON, SPRING LAKE RESIDENT Dr. Robert Hendrikson, an orthopedic surgeon with over forty years of experience, was drawn to the cause after researching the potential biological effects of 5G radiation. “I was immediately concerned about the egregious violation of human
GINA LU, SPRING LAKE RESIDENT & BUSINESS OWNER Gina, owner of Gemma Lulu Designs is deeply worried about the potential health risks of everyday exposure to electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs), citing research linking
14 March 2025
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16 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 17
MAKE & BAKE
LUCK IN EVERY CRUMB
March brings a touch of Irish cheer, and what better way to celebrate than with festive bites that combine tradition and creativity? Put a modern spin on a time-honored classic with these tender, golden Irish soda bread scones. Infused with currants, caraway seeds and a hint of orange zest, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch or teatime.
BY SHAUNA OSBORNE, NATIONAL EDITOR
Cindy Napp REALTOR® 732-859-7808
INGREDIENTS • 2 cups + 1 teaspoon, divided, all-purpose flour • 1/4 cup granulated sugar • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, diced • 1/2 cup currants • 2 teaspoons caraway seeds • 1 cup cold buttermilk • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest • 1 egg • 1 tablespoon milk INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together 2 cups flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda in a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Toss currants with 1 teaspoon flour, then stir them into the flour mixture along with caraway seeds, buttermilk and orange zest. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. 3. Scoop dough into mounds using a 1/3 cup measure, spacing them 3 inches apart on the baking sheet. Beat the egg with the milk to create an egg wash, then brush over the tops of the scones. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown. Cool on baking sheet.
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18 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 19
A spectacle close to home WHALE WATCHING
ago, New Jersey lawmakers adjusted regulations on fishing Atlantic Menhaden, the primary food source for humpback whales. As prey fish shift locations, the whales follow, bringing more humpbacks closer to shore. The result? Some of the best whale- watching opportunities on the East Coast. THE JERSEY SHORE WHALE WATCHING EXPERIENCE For those eager to witness these gentle giants up close, Jersey Shore Whale Watch is the go-to experience. Departing from Belmar, their trips aboard the Jersey Girl offer an unforgettable adventure right in our backyard. WHEN TO GO Whale-watching season runs from April through December, with peak sightings in the spring and fall. And here’s the exciting part, just this January, three whales were spotted off the Spring Lake and Belmar boardwalks! WHALE SIGHTINGS GUARANTEED Jersey Shore Whale Watch is so confident in the abundance of marine life that they guarantee sightings. Many trips report multiple whales in a single outing, often alongside pods of playful dolphins. A COMFORTABLE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY RIDE The Jersey Girl is designed for all ages, featuring a two-level layout with indoor and outdoor seating, a heated cabin for cooler days, and even a snack bar. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Jersey Shore Whale Watch even hosts a photo contest, inviting passengers to submit their best shots.
BY BILL MCKIM JR.
Photo by Michael Scotto
THE JERSEY SHORE is known for its sandy beaches, charming boardwalks, and lively summer days, and recently our coastline has also become a prime spot for whale watching. From spring through winter, these majestic marine mammals make their way through our waters, offering breathtaking encounters just off the coast of Spring Lake. WHY ARE WHALES SHOWING UP ALONG THE SHORE? Humpback whales have been making more frequent appearances along the Jersey Shore, and scientists point to a few key reasons why: A FEAST IN OUR WATERS Whales go where the food is, and lucky for us, our waters are teeming with Atlantic menhaden, also called bunker fish, a favorite meal for these giants. It’s common to see whales using “bubble net feeding” to devour them. Bubble net feeding means that
whales, typically humpbacks, create a circular net of bubbles by blowing air from the blowholes to herd schools of fish together, essentially trapping them before swimming up through it with their mouths open to eat the fish in large quantities. This cooperative hunting strategy demonstrates the complex social behavior among the whales. A NATURAL MIGRATION ROUTE Humpbacks travel thousands of miles every year, moving between northern feeding grounds and southern breeding waters. The Jersey Shore happens to be a perfect stop along their journey, especially for younger whales who are less driven by reproductive needs and aren’t in a rush to migrate. SHIFTING OCEAN CONDITIONS Rising ocean temperatures have shifted the distribution of prey, causing some whales to explore new areas. About a decade
MORE THAN JUST A TRIP- A LESSON IN CONSERVATION
Jersey Shore Whale Watch works with Gotham Whale, a nonprofit dedicated to studying and protecting the whales that frequent the New York and New Jersey area. Each trip is an opportunity to learn about these creatures, their role in the ecosystem, and how we can help protect them from threats like ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear. RECORD-BREAKING WHALE ACTIVITY The past year saw record-breaking whale activity along our coast, and all signs point to another exciting season ahead. The thrill of spotting a whale in its natural habitat is something you’ll never forget, and the fact that it’s happening right here, in the waters off Spring Lake, makes it even more special. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of seeing a whale breach against the backdrop of our local beaches, now is your chance. Book your trip at Jersey Shore Whale Watch or call 732-592-6400 to reserve your spot.
Thank you to Bill McKim for sharing his photographs
20 March 2025
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AROUND TOWN
Safe to skate Green Flag
BY KATIE SCHRADER - EDITOR
F or one unforgettable week this past January, Spring Lake was transported back in time as the lake froze over, inviting skaters of all ages to experience a magical winter wonderland. The green flag on Third Avenue’s flagpole signaled the first time in seven years that the lake was frozen enough for skating. The ice quickly became a hub of joy and community, with children, teens, and adults lacing up their skates and gliding across the lake from dawn until well past dusk. Hockey games broke out, groups of schoolkids roamed together in delighted packs, and under the glow of DPW- installed lights, the town felt electric. The fire department even lent a hand, resurfacing the ice with a fresh layer of water, ensuring a smooth glide for the next day’s adventures. Local photographer Michael Scotto captured many of these moments, preserving the memories for future generations. It was a magical week in Spring Lake’s history that left everyone dreaming of the next polar vortex. Enjoy these pictures from the past and present!
Mid 1900s Photo from SL Historical Society
Photo by Michael Scotto
Photo by Michael Scotto
Early 1970s at Wreck Pond by Thomas Anthony
Early 1970s by Thomas Anthony
Photo by John Scotto
Early 1970s by Thomas Anthony
Photo by Michael Scotto
2018 By Michael Scotto
2003 By Michael Scotto
2025 By Michael Scotto
2025
22 March 2025
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RIDING TO REMEMBER MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS
What does training for the Police Unity Tour involve? Training for the tour is a personal commitment, and everyone prepares a little differently for the demanding ride. Some riders focus on endurance, while others prioritize strength training. Many incorporate indoor cycling during the colder months to stay in shape. This year we have Pat. Ryan Reiff riding for his twelfth time, Chief Edward Kerr who will be participating for the 8th time, and Sgt. Emmett Smith riding for a third year. In addition to myself, we have Officers William Coyle and Marc Evangelista joining us for their first Unity Tour. In total, we will have six riders from Spring Lake joining over forty members from our local Chapter 10. Regardless of our approaches, the goal is the same: to be physically and mentally prepared for the ride. What is the most challenging part of the ride? The ride is demanding in every way. It’s not just the emotional weight of the ride, but the physical endurance required is significant.
What is it like to approach and reach the Memorial in Washington, D.C.? The last leg of the Police Unity Tour is an incredibly emotional and powerful moment. As we approach the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, there’s an overwhelming sense of unity and reverence. The miles we’ve ridden represent the sacrifices made by so many. Standing at the memorial, surrounded by the names of those who gave their lives in service, is a humbling reminder of why we ride. Tell us about the fundraiser in March. The Unity Tour fundraiser at Bar Anticipation is a fantastic event that brings the community together in support of the riders and the cause. This year’s event at Bar-A is on Saturday, March 8th starting at 3pm. The evening will include a buffet, drink specials, Super 50/50, a large gift auction with incredible items, and live music by the Joe Baracata Band. A donation of $30 is requested when you get your ticket in advance at the Spring Lake Police Department. You can also
get tickets locally at police departments in Belmar, Spring Lake Hts, Avon, Wall, Sea Girt, as well as other Monmouth County locations. How can the community support the cause? When you support the riders, whether through donations, attending fundraising events, or simply offering encouragement, you’re contributing to something
Unpredictable weather like heat, rain, or strong winds can make it even tougher. The terrain is another challenge, especially the hills, which can feel relentless after hours of riding. The length of the ride spans several days, so riders must pace themselves. What keeps you motivated during the long ride? The overall length of the ride is grueling, but it’s all worth it when you remember why you’re riding. Every tough hill, every gust of wind, every mile traveled brings you one step closer to honoring the fallen officers. The challenges of the ride are a reflection of the sacrifices these officers made, reminding you that no challenge is too great when it comes to showing respect and ensuring their memories live on. Another motivating part of the ride is the people. Every participant has a story, whether it’s a fellow officer or a family member of a fallen officer. Hearing their stories along the way is incredibly powerful. The camaraderie among riders and the support from communities along the route make it an unforgettable experience.
The Police Unity Tour
much bigger than any single individual. The
Police Unity Tour Chapter 10 will ride with almost 40 members in honor of Sgt. Steve Blecki (photo by Chris Kucinski)
money directly supports essential funds for the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund and museum in Washington, DC. We would love to see you at our fundraising event in March as well as our send off, which will happen the morning of May 9th in Spring Lake. Special thanks to Belmar PD Chief Tina Scott, president of Chapter 10, SLPD Capt. Timothy Giblin, and SLPD Det. Sgt. Chris Kucinski for helping us with photography and interviews for this article.
“It is not how these men died that made them heroes, it is how they lived.” -Vivan Eney
Riding to Remember - The Police Unity Tour Each year, law enforcement officers from across the country participate in the Police Unity Tour, a multi-day cycling event dedicated to honoring fallen officers. We spoke with Spring Lake’s Captain Timothy Giblin, who will be riding for the fourth time, about what the tour means to him, the challenges of the journey, and how the community can show support.
importantly, he was a dedicated officer who deeply cared about his colleagues and the community. Steve made people feel at ease, no matter the situation. People gravitated toward him, knowing they could trust him, not just as an officer, but as a friend. His presence had a calming effect, and you always knew he had your back. Steve’s legacy is one of kindness, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Riding in his memory is an incredible honor— it’s a way to celebrate the impact he had on all of us and ensure that his spirit of service and camaraderie continues to inspire others.
It’s a powerful way to show respect for their bravery and dedication. Beyond honoring their legacy, the tour raises essential funds for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. It’s an honor to ride alongside others who share the same deep respect and commitment to those who gave everything in service to others. This year’s ride honors former Spring Lake Sgt. Steve Blecki. What does it mean to you to ride in his memory? Sergeant Steve Blecki was a larger-than- life personality. He had an infectious sense of humor and the rare ability to light up any room with a joke, but more
Tell us about the Police Unity Tour?
The Police Unity Tour honors and remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Steve Blecki and Ryan Reiff completed the Unity Tour together in 2014.
The Unity Tour ends with all chapters riding through the National Law Enforcement Memorial which is lined with fellow officers, family, friends, and survivors.
This will be Ptl. Ryan Reiff’s twelfth Unity Tour down to Washington, DC.
The motor units lead the tour. They assist with traffic and keep riders safe by creating a barricade to the left.
Sgt. Steve Blecki was a member of the Spring Lake Police Department for over two decades.
Chapter 10 starts the Police Unity Tour from Mercer County Park. This year, the Tour will begin in Spring Lake!
24 March 2025
Stroll Spring Lake 25
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26 March 2025
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9151 Currency St. Irving, TX 75063
A Publication for the Residents of Spring Lake
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