Woman. Daughter. Sister. Aunt. Friend. Gardener. Teacher. Singer. Actress. Theater Technician. Director. Executive Assistant to a Broadway Director. Lover of the Arts.

Meet Our Next Feature: Terri.

When Terri was a teenager she was in a car accident with an eighty-one year old man from Pine Beach. She went to court to fight the ticket. The judge was delayed and after a lengthy period of time waiting, a young man walked over to her. He introduced himself as the son of the elderly man she had gotten into the car accident with. He had to go to work and couldn't wait for the judge any longer and asked Terri to drive his father home because he knew she was from Ocean Gate, and his father was from Pine Beach. She thought he was crazy. After some time he eventually convinced her and after court, there they were. Teenage Terri, and an eighty year old man who referred to himself as Mr. Stanger. The car ride home would have been awkward at this point for anyone. Terri hummed show tunes to herself to pass the time. It seemed mildly odd when he revealed to her that he was an astrologer. He also revealed that his wife was a clairvoyant and he would like to do a reading for her. Terri was staring at him from the corner of her eye thinking, he seems harmless enough.

When she pulled up to drop him off, his wife, Mrs. Stanger, opened the door and came outside, and Terri could hear their stereo was blasting the very same song she had been humming to herself on the ride home. The whole thing was too strange to ignore. Astrologers and clairvoyants weren't common place back then. Getting your cards and your future read wasn't something people did normally. She found herself too curious to not hear them out. During the reading, they told her that she was going to be involved in the theater in New York City and that she would do a very important job. Terri had never even auditioned or thought about working on Broadway at this point. Being a young girl, she was natural curious about her future love life and children. They told her that she would have many different kinds of children, she would be married at twenty-seven, but that not all marriages last. Over the years many of their revelations came to fruition.

Terri grew up in Ocean Gate. She had many jobs over the years before Mr. Stanger's predictions came true and she lived and worked in New York City. She attended Ocean Gate Elementary School when she was a child and has fond memories of our little town, spending summers on the beach and playing outside until dark. As she got older she wore many different hats to earn her own money. She was a babysitter, a boardwalk carnie in Seaside Heights and a paper girl. When she was eleven-years-old she flew to Chicago to visit her older sister Cathy. Cathy had a fulfilling single life and she did it all on her own. She had a career, a car, a home, and great friends. Terri was inspired by this visit, and it made her realize she could build any life she wanted for herself. She found joy in music through her father Bernie, a WW2 Veteran, who was a part of the liberation of Dachau. He used to sing all the time, creating songs of his own. He loved his whole family going to church and singing together there. He even joined a sining group for seniors that gathered at Ocean County College, called "The Old Guard." They were a group of WW2 vets who would sing the oldies and perform little comedy skits. He loved entertaining people. Being on the stage was a long lost dream of his, but he could see Terri was starting to have the same passion for music and acting. They both began studying voice with a woman named Faith Kline.

She took the leap to move to New York City when she was twenty years old. She and a few other girls with the same dreams shared an apartment. She built a life there of her own, auditioned for roles and worked. Terri attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy there, professionally training for musical theater. She worked her way through and eventually worked as an Assistant to Harold Prince for many years, who is well known for shows like West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof, Cabaret, Sweeney Todd, and Phantom of the Opera. As an actress she was the lead on Sitting on the Dock of the Bay, Little Girl Blue, The Hasty Heart, and Radio Gals, just to name a few. She has been a singer for Broadway Inspirational Voices for over twenty-nine years now and has worked on film, commercials, and television. It seems that Mr. and Mrs. Stanger knew exactly what they were talking about when it came to Terri and the theater.

The other prediction of her marriage turned out to also be true. They were married for five years, another prediction of not all marriages lasting forever. Terri never had children, but she was always very involved with kids through out her life in different roles. She has nieces and nephews she holds dearly, and was able to teach and work with children. She did wind up having children of all kinds, just not biological. So many of Mr. Stanger's predictions came to fruition throughout her life.

After many years in the city, Terri moved back home to Ocean Gate after her mother became ill. She is grateful for the time they spent together before she passed. Terri still lives in Ocean Gate and commutes to the city for work. She is still singing and creating. She loves to spend time in her garden and has taken up crotchet. She loves to spread joy. She is one of the most fascinating women I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She is still singing, creating and teaching acting in Toms River, N.J. I hope you enjoy her interview below!

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

These days I’ve gone back to my first love…the craft of acting. I love singing with the choir where I have been a member for 29 years, the Broadway Inspirational Voices. I also love my garden and crochet projects. I love to make hats for people.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

I’m proud of myself for managing to navigate this crazy world to this point. I’m proud to be a grateful, loving friend, auntie, sister, partner, colleague and Good-Trouble advocate. I try to lead with my joy wherever I go.

What are the greatest challenges you have faced?

My greatest challenge is to get out of my own way everyday and let the universe bring all I wish for without blocking the gifts with fear.

Looking back on your life, what are one or two events that were monumental and changed your life? 

I had a realization when I was in my early teens that no one was coming to save me. Whatever I was going to do or be, I had to make it happen for myself with whatever tools I came into the world with. Moving to NYC on my own when I was just twenty and my divorce also changed my life.

What does the word feminism mean to you?

The basic human right to be recognized, valued and dealt with respectfully and based on my accomplishments and skills regardless of my sex or skin color. Feeling worthy enough to demand a seat at the table. Not letting others (men mostly) affect your choices by insisting you “behave” or self-edit in some way they dictate in order to make them feel they have control over me or others like me.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

There are many…most of them don’t even know how significant they are, but I learned by watching them. My older sister Cathy. She has passed away, but when I was 11, I flew to the Chicago area to visit her, I was so impressed that she was living her own life as a single person, with a career (medicine) and an apartment, her own car, and some crazy friends and that’s when I knew that it was possible to build the life that I wanted for myself. Also, Arlene Caruso. She was Harold Prince’s executive assistant for 30 plus years. I marveled at how a trained ballerina became such a savvy business woman and was able to run Mr. Prince’s businesses.

What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

I wish I knew that I could and should trust my instincts above all else. I didn’t have to wait for proof for the bad thing to happen to be right. I should have just moved on trusting in my instincts and not continually looked over my shoulder. Also, I am enough. Full stop.

What message do you want to send the next generation of women? 

They are enough. As they are. Without tweaking or adjusting to fit someone else’s idea of them. If someone treats you badly, don’t make excuses for them, move on and don’t look back and trust you did the right thing for yourself and your sanity. Own your voice and know it matters.

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

Until we actual reach equality, it will always be necessary to point out where the inequity is and how strong women are.

How can women empower themselves and others?

Take care of one another…don’t let yourself be pitted against another woman. This divide and conquer strategy has been very effective to keep women fighting each other instead of the systematic patriarchy that is standing on their necks.

Thank You For Reading!

I hope you enjoyed this small look into Terri's life as much as I did. I found it fascinating how right here in Ocean Gate, a young girl believed in herself, followed her dreams, and made them come true. Her story is a testament to manifesting and creating any life you want for yourself. You just have to believe it can happen. Stay tuned for the next feature later this week!

Erin's Feature

Woman. Daughter. Wife. Mother. Friend. Baker. Creative. Pre Med Graduate. Seamstress. Owner of the Union Market.

Meet Our Next Feature: Erin.

I first discovered The Union Market in Tuckerton by chance on a field trip with my son to the Tuckerton Seaport. When I first walked in, I felt like I was entering a different sphere than I had ever been to before. In the Pine Barrens, we have lots of diners and pizzerias, but we don't have anything that can compare to the Union Market. You feel different after you leave there. You walk up to a wrap around porch with string lights that overlooks the Seaport. Inside the glass doors you enter a little space of handmade jewelry, candles, lotions and skin care that are all made with care and feel luxurious. There is a little sign on the wall where you can take a gift card for $10.00 if you are in need from someone who left it behind in hopes someone would take it that needed good will.

You turn and enter the restaurant space and are greeted by all sorts art from local artists on the walls. The display case of baked goods features unique homemade items like coconut chai donuts, apple cider cake, white chocolate pistachio rolls, lemon lavender cake, espresso brownies, and honey bacon cheddar scones. All made in house. Their coffee specials are always innovative and fresh too featuring classic espressos and cappuccinos, but also drinks like apple chai teas, maple vanilla cold brews and churro lattes. Their food specials are much in of the same level. Specials like tiramisu pancakes or housemate focaccia bread with sweet whipped ricotta, strawberries, balsamic glaze, basil and pistachios. No, seriously. That is a special. All on top of their regular menu of which the quality is homemade, superior, fresh and consistent. There is a reason this place has thrived over the years, even through the pandemic. They celebrate locals and host open mic nights. They bring people together. Erin, the owner, believes in giving back to the community that has supported her all these years.

When I reached out to Erin about interviewing her I was thrilled when she wrote back that she was interested. I felt like I was getting a message back from a celebrity. The Union Market is so unique and beautiful that I wanted to know more about how it came to be. We had never met face to face before, so I had no idea what she looked like. On the day we were to meet I decided to have lunch there with my son and husband to make a family day out of it. We had lunch, which was amazing and when my family left to go have fun at the seaport while I did the interview, I was almost shocked when Erin walked out and we introduced ourselves because she was the woman who brought our food out to the table. She had a Union Market T-shirt on and had been in the back all morning working. She told me she needed a few extra minutes before we talked because she had to finish the dishes. She is 100% fully hands on with her business and I think that is something to admire. She isn't just the boss, she's does the labor of work, with her hands and her heart.



When Erin was a little girl she wanted to be a doctor, a pediatric nurse in specific. She went to college and graduated Premed from Stockton University, where she met her husband during her senior year. When she got out into the field she realized it wasn't for her and became disillusioned by insurance companies. She still wanted to help people and use her hands so she did massage therapy for seven years. She loved the one on one helping her patients and making them feel better, but it was tough on her body, repetitive and had a lack of creativity that her brain needed. There were two sides to her, the analytical side, and the creative side and was on a journey of self discovery with how to marry the two. She also needed to use her hands. The creative side of her as a young girl was very interested in fashion, so she decided to try out seamstress work and see if that filled her passion. She trained and opened up a shop, did lots of bridal work that was fulfilling, and at the same time ran a small vintage shop with a friend. She could meet new people, be creative and use her hands, but the work wasn't financially sustainable to support her family. So, Erin and a few friends put their passions and heads together and created something called The Maker's Festival.

The Maker's Festival was a celebration of homegrown art, food and music. There was a whole new generation of craftspeople in the area who came together to celebrate shopping small and shaping something of their own. Erin felt it was important to foster this young generation so they didn't give up on crafting and creating. At one point they had over 250 vetted vendors. They also started the Union Market at this time, which was in a way an extension of the same of idea of shopping small and homemade. The Union Market started out as an idea for a coffee shop and art gallery, something that Tuckerton didn't have. Something that nowhere in the are had. They offered artisanal coffee with an ambience of art. They eventually expanded into food when the need was demanded. Erin found a place where she could use the analytical side of her brain to run a business, her creative side to come up with unique menu items, and her hands to physically create those items and run her business.

Covid ended The Maker's Festival and now Erin is the sole owner of The Union Market, which is thriving. She is still married to her husband and was able to have a happy healthy daughter but struggled when trying to conceive another baby. She lost four pregnancies before she was able to conceive her second daughter with IFV. All while working and sometimes having to pretend everything was ok when it wasn't. When we talked Erin said it can sometimes be a struggle with the guilt balancing work/home life can bring. It's not easy being a mom and a full time business owner. She feels guilty taking time off because as a woman she thinks the expectations for women are to perform just a bit higher. The respect isn't just given, but has to be earned. She sets out to be reliable and driven. The devotion is palpable. But she also thinks we should all be honest about not pretending it's all easy all the time. It's hard work, but a work she loves.

I think Erin is a testament of the importance of being honest to yourself and not settling for anything less than what you truly want to be. There is always time to reinvent yourself and find what makes you motivated and fulfilled. Even if the path there isn't clear or straightforward, it is a walk worth taking. You can wind up somewhere you truly want to be.

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

In no particular order: baking, science, and sewing.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

My college degree and running a thriving business while also raising my young children and maintaining a healthy marriage. I'm proud of building something that allows me to do what I love to do that supports me and my family (though it can be extremely stressful at times).

What are the greatest challenges you have faced?

Maintaining a work/life balance is a huge challenge for me. Overcoming some long-held beliefs about myself and my abilities that will sometimes hold me back if I'm not careful. Dealing with pregnancy loss and infertility for 3 years while I was raising my other daughter and working every day was hugely challenging. Relaxing without guilt challenges me often as well.

Looking back on your life, what are one or two events that were monumental and changed your life? 

I know it sounds cliche but having my daughters. Life and meaning expanded beyond myself and my own little world. All of my decisions are now filtered through the lens of motherhood: how will this affect my kids? Will this have an impact on their future? They changed my body and mind forever.

What does the word feminism mean to you?

Affording women the same opportunities as men in work, life, etc., while recognizing that the skills and insights women bring to the table are in fact strengths, though they may be different from those that men bring to the table.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

All of the elder women in my family. I come from a huge family and the women who came before me had to be strong through times that were much more difficult for women. For instance, my maternal grandmother was one of 9 children, enlisted in the Navy and was in two wars during her service. She raised four children and lost her husband to cancer at a relatively young age. All of the women who came before me have had an impact on me in some way.

What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

That other people's thoughts or feelings about me are not within my control. I'm not going to be everyone's cup of tea, and that's ok.

What message do you want to send the next generation of women? 

Let your work speak for itself. Some fights are worth fighting, and some are not. It's ok to choose not to fight every single one, it's exhausting. Also, be nice to other women, we are all in this together - this sentiment applies whether you're in your 20's or your 40's, or if you're fully focused on your career or deep into motherhood. It's easy to try and take down another woman for doing things differently than you, but all that does is turn us against each other and make us miserable. Live and let live you know?

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

It's always a good thing to recognize a group of people who have had to overcome (and continue to overcome) a lot to get to this point.

How can women empower themselves and others?

I'm still learning myself, but this is what I got so far: be honest about your struggles, but don't let them hold you back. Resilience-building is an important skill that will prove useful in all aspects of your life, especially as you continue to age.

Thank You For Reading!

Thank you for reading! The Union Market is located in Tuckerton, N.J. Please follow them on instagram for daily specials @theunionmarket! Stay tuned for our next feature!

Jennifer's Feature

Woman. Mother. Daughter. Wife. Grandmother. Paraprofessional. Animal Lover. Care Giver. Small Business Owner. Runaway Farm Sanctuary Founder.

Meet Our Next Feature: Jennifer.

Runaway Farm started with pigs that were running loose on the streets in Bayville. Jennifer had a dog walking business at this point and she heard about these two pigs who were bought at an auction, put in a backyard and kept getting loose. The pigs were originally acquired by a young teenage boy who brought them home to his parent's house one day. The parents wanted nothing to do with them and had plans to get rid of them. Jennifer's daughter found this out and told her mom she wanted to rescue them. So they did. After that there was a cow, and then a goat, and people kept reaching out to her to take in more animals. With her daughter's encouragement, Jennifer started a non profit. She has a reverence for animals and it just seemed right. They had a big response from the community. There were different fundraisers put together to help out with the animals care. The farm is donation based which helps and a decent portion self funded. The medical care and feed can be a challenge but they do different kinds of events and fundraisers to help. They are completely devoted to their animal rescues. The farm is their entire day to day life. They don't really go on vacation because they have to be home for the animals. Everything is based around the animals feeding time and care, but it is a labor of love. A devotion to a life of care, which has been the basis of Jennifer's life.

Ever since Jennifer was a little girl she knew that she wanted to be a mother. She met her future husband in high school where they fell in love. In high school when guidance counselors would start talking about what she wanted to do with her life, she struggled with that question because she genuinely with her whole heart wanted to be a mother and that didn't seem to be the right answer. At that point a lot of the girls seemed more career driven, thinking about where they were going to work and what they wanted their jobs to be. She wanted her life's work to be motherhood. She eventually got married at twenty one to her high school sweetheart and immediately started their family. Her mom was a stay at home mom. She watched her Dad work a ton of different jobs in order to provide for his family. That is how she saw the roles of men and women, as equals with different but important and essential roles. Being a mother came natural to Jennifer and she loved every second of it. She raised healthy successful children. She now cares for her grandchildren during the week while their parents work. To me it honestly doesn't seem like much of a surprise that she has fostered that motherly instinct within her and transformed it into her role with the animals at the farm. It is like she has expanded her reach of mother to the souls of the animals that no one else seemed to care about or love. Who didn't have moms to love them.

When I arrived at the farm my first impression was how clean and cared for the land and the animals were. Little drawings from Ocean Gate Elementary School students lined one of the insides of a barn. The animals never frightened me and seemed calm and at ease. As I looked around the landscape it was like I could take a breath of fresh air and relax. The word that came to mind was contentment. There are goats, pigs, a big cow and horses that all have adorable faces and seem impossible not to love with their own little quirky individual personalities. You can tell they all now have a mother who loves them. Like they lay their heads at night knowing they are safe and loved. I am honored to share some of their mom's story below!

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about a lot of things. First and foremost, my kids and grandkids. They are my everything. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family. I’m grateful to be involved with my grandkids lives almost daily. I’m excited to watch them grow alongside the animals. My other passion is caring for unwanted neglected animals. I’ve always loved animals and I always will. I have a special place for the ones that no one else wants. I’m honored to be their caregiver.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

I am very proud to have built an animal sanctuary from the ground up. It was never a goal. I always did rescue of some sort, but I never imagined I would build what we have today. It started with two local pigs that were loose in Bayville and needed a place to land. It grew from there, taking in animals that were in desperate situations and some local families that just really needed help. What truly surprised me was the support from the community and the connections we made. People wanted to help. They felt connected to the animals. People would come here and feel the peace that the animals felt. We’ve had the opportunity to welcome high school groups, terminally ill children, children that lost their families in tragedies and so many others that felt the connection when they came to the sanctuary. The sanctuary has become so much more than I could have ever imagined. I’m so proud of that!

What are the greatest challenges you have faced?

If you asked me when I was a kid what I wanted to be when I grew up I would tell you a mom . They gave me a purpose. I was blessed to be a mostly stay at home mom. As the kids got older and needed me less I started to worry about losing that purpose. Although your kids always need you, it’s a different level. My oldest son‘s nursery school teacher said to me, “The two greatest gifts you can give your kids are roots and wings.” Giving them roots was the easy part, watching them leave the nest and hoping that you gave them all of the tools they need is the hard part. The other challenging part of that was after being home for 10 years raising my kids I needed to then go back into the working world. The thing that came natural was being a mom. My first job back was para professional at Ocean Gate Elementary school. That set me on the path of working with kids with disabilities for the next 15 years.

Looking back on your life, what are one or two events that were monumental and changed your life? 

Of course having my kids was so monumental to me. They gave me a purpose. Being a mom was the most important job I ever had. We made sacrifices so I could stay home and raise them. That was the right choice for us and I’m grateful for the time I was home with them. Three years ago, the sanctuary changed my life. Our two boys were now homeowners, and our daughter was in college. We became grandparents. I was running a successful dog walking business. My husband had just retired. Then the sanctuary happened. Literally with animals just showing up on our doorstep. This again shifted my purpose. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t willingly get up early and go outside to care for them. Freezing temperatures, smoldering heat, rain, snow, illness, it doesn’t matter I’m out there every day. It’s a labor of love.

What does the word feminism mean to you?

Feminism should include fairness at ALL sentient beings.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

The most influential women in my life are my mom and my daughter. Keira overcame being bullied most of her middle school and high school years. It didn’t break her but it easily could have. She is so strong and determined. She is cofounder of Runaway Farm Animal Sanctuary and is the one that pushed me to make it a non profit. I couldn’t have done it without her. She’s my best friend and I hope to be as strong as she is one day. My mom was a stay at home mom for most of my childhood. She not only took care of us, but she took care of anyone else that needed it. She would go out of her way to be thoughtful and make people feel loved. She was very giving, not only of her time but she always had a gift for that unexpected visitor or the person who just needed a smile. She didn’t have a career till later in life when she took her caregiving to the next level and became a massage therapist. I guess I followed in her footsteps of being a caregiver.

What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

That it was OK not to follow the norm. A lot of people didn’t understand my love for animals. I connected with animals. I was a very shy kid and they were easier to be around. That little girl would be so happy to see where I am now.

What message do you want to send the next generation of women? 

Live purposefully! Manifest the life you want. Whether it’s a career, raising a family, fighting for a cause, or all of it.

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

Everyone needs inspiration. It’s a time to share stories that can change and inspire people.

How can women empower themselves and others?

Women tend to compete with each other and knock each other down. It needs to be the opposite. They need to lift each other up and celebrate each other.

Thank You For Reading!

Thank you for reading Jennifer's story and a special thank you to her for allowing me to share a little more about her and the farm! Thank you to all the moms out there who adopt that role even with kids/animals who aren't their own. The world is a better place because of you. Follow Runaway Farm on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with the animals! Stay tuned for our next feature!

Danielle's Feature

Woman. Daughter. Sister. Wife. Friend. Mother. Bereaved Mother. Science Graduate. Mortgage Banker. Baker. Small Business Owner.

Meet Our Next Feature: Danielle

Danielle and her boyfriend, now husband, Brett, found out they were expecting, very unexpectedly at a young age. Even though the pregnancy wasn't planned, they decided to embrace their fate and step into the role of parenthood and building a family with arms wide open. She always wanted to be a mom and even though she didn't plan on having a baby at the time, she was excited about stepping up to the plate in her new role as a mother. About half way through the pregnancy they found out their daughter would not make it outside of her womb due to her brain anatomy. She went numb when she realized her daughter wouldn't make it. She couldn't believe this was happening to her. She lost her baby. She didn't leave bed for a month afterward. She didn't understand how she was supposed to go on just living life while her daughter could no longer be apart of it. Going through that loss turned her entire life in a new direction. It lit a fire for her and her husband to start their life together as a family, stronger and more determined than ever. There was nothing else that could take them down after that. They got married and were on a mission to build the life they had dreamed of but was taken from them.

Danielle graduated college a few years later with a science degree. She was going to go even farther with her education but got pregnant with her first son not that long after she graduated and then covid hit. After she had her son she was a stay at home mom for six months. She tried to go back to work but found it difficult to be away from her child. She eventually got pregnant with her daughter and hit a turning point. Danielle has been working since she was fourteen to provide for herself. Her first job was at the Anchor Inn. Working came natural to her and was something she took pride in. She didn't have anything against stay at home moms, but it wasn't for her. She worked hard her whole life to pay her own way, even having three jobs at once when she was 17. She wanted to be able to spend as much time with her kids as she could but also help provide for her family. She decided during her second pregnancy that she was going to start her own business and work for herself.

Cleaning was something Danielle always took pride in. It made her feel good and gave her a sense of fulfillment. She told her husband that she wanted to work for herself and he told her to follow her dreams and she had his support no matter what. So that is what she did, she started her own cleaning business. Luxe and Rose Cleaning was born and has been thriving for the last four years ever since. She has a list of consistent concrete clients ranging from salons and other small business owners, to home clients. They value her because she takes pride in her work and takes responsibility in providing a clean serene space. She is able to set her own schedule and be her own boss. She is able to be with her family but feel fulfilled by running a business of her own and contributing to her families success. She is emotionally available and physically present with her kids when they need her, and is able to financially provide for them.

Danielle and her husband overcame one of the worst things a family can go through and turned their loss into strength. Danielle accredits much of the success of her business to her husband for being that shoulder to lean on and having faith in her that she could do it, and she has. They have built the family and life they always wanted together. That in itself is inspiration. To be able to overcome and persevere in adversity when no one could blame them if they crumbled. They built their home together right here in Bayville and have two healthy, beautiful and thriving children.

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about raising my babies. I am passionate about my business. I hope I have built something they can be proud of and maybe one day I can pass it on to them.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

I am proud of completing my Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science, even though I am not using it right now, I am still really proud that I did it. I am proud of owning four different homes by the age of 28, carrying three beautiful babies and birthing two of them. I am proud of working up the courage and strength to quit my corporate job after bringing two children into this world and creating something of my own to help support my family.

What are the greatest challenges you have faced?

The greatest challenge I have ever had so far in my life is accepting that I cannot be with my children all of the time. I am challenging myself to create a life they will cherish. I work hard to give them everything and more.

Looking back on your life, what are one or two events that were monumental and changed your life? 

Losing my first child changed my outlook on almost everything in life, for bad and then for better. Creating the logo for my business Luxe & Rose was extremely monumental. It was a moment in time where I could say "Damn, I am proud of myself. I'm really doing it. I am creating something from scratch."

What does the word feminism mean to you?

Feminism means to me that being a woman does not mean I cannot accomplish all life has to offer. I can have strength and courage to start my own business. I can be successful in my endeavors because I am smart and passionate. I can work hard and make a living from the ground up. You hear so many people talk about "women owned businesses." That is because it is something to be damn proud of in a world full of powerful men. Women can be just as powerful and even more-so.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

My mom. She has faced so much diversity in her life and has gone through so much. As I have gotten older she has changed and evolved. She never gave up when times were tough for her, she challenged herself to figure out how to keep going. As I stepped into this new role of motherhood, besides my husband, my mother has been my pillar of strength to this very day. I couldn't do life without her. My sister Nicole has always also been there for me too when no one else was. She is strong. Everyone has their weak moments but Nicole is very, very strong and we are really close. She is my best friend. I lean on her a lot.

What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

I wish I was more gentle with myself. I wish I knew that giving yourself grace doesn't make you weak but makes you stronger. I was way too hard on myself as a young girl and I wish i could give her a hug and tell her everything will and has worked out.

What message do you want to send the next generation of women? 

You don't need to conform to what society tells you that you need to be. Follow your heart, make mistakes, learn from them. Never give up hope that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to. As long as you are passionate about whatever it is you do, you can make it happen.

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

It is important to have examples of how powerful being a woman can be. I want to set that example for my daughter. I want her to know how powerful she can be. Being a woman doesn't hinder you from anything.

How can women empower themselves and others?

Stick together. Encourage each other. Mentor each other. Learn about the depths of your being and be your authentic self. There is nothing better in this world then letting your light shine so bright that you encourage those around you to do the same. The world needs more of it!

Thank You For Reading!

It was a true honor to be able to share space with another Bayville woman who has created a small business of her own! I admire Danielle's honestly and vulnerability to share something so personal to her because I know there are so many women who go through situations like she did and feel alone. I hope her vulnerability inspires other women. Follow her instagram, @luxeandrosecleaningco! Women are powerful and when we set our minds to something we manifest and make it happen. No dream is ever too big or too small. Stay tuned for our next feature on Sunday!

Ree's Feature

Woman. Mother. Wife. Sister. Daughter. Friend. Grandmother. Singer. Musician. Artist. Gardener. Band Director. Musical Theater Director.

Meet Our Next Feature: Ree

If you or your child has ever gone through our local school system here in Bayville, it is impossible to not know the name "Shivers." Ree has been the band director at Central Regional Middle School for over three decades and has left her imprint on countless hearts. I feel like we have all had that one person or teacher in life who shaped our childhoods. Who showed us the beauty in the world and fostered a foundation of motivation to carve out your space in it. To find yourself, your true self and what makes you happy. For me and many others, that was music and that was because of her. I always remember her saying, "To play for the joy of the experience." She encouraged us not to only love music, but to love ourselves, each other and the journey through life we were on. I know I am not special in this story, I cannot even fathom how many people feel the same way. When you enter her classroom, you are entering the world of music, a world of possibility and freedom. A world where you find yourself through sharing and creating music and art. She was serious when she needed to be and made sure we did the work, but also created a space that was fun, creative and joyful. To know Shivers and to be in her band was to know dedication and love. Even in her office today she has notes and pictures of students from decades past all over her wall. She truly loves music and her students. It's impossible to not feel inspired around her.

Ree is a full time band director, did the chorus for many years, directs the high school musical, directs her church music program, coached private lessons, organizes field trips, comes early, stays late, has a blooming greenhouse, raised two successful children, is a grandmother, has a long lasting marriage and still finds the time to paint and draw. This woman does it all. When I started this project she was the first woman who popped in my head. She is the definition of grace, humility, diligence, and love. What Shivers does is intangible, but invaluable. You can't hold music in your hand, but you can feel it. Deeply. It is in that same way that you can feel her devotion. It moves you. She changes lives. She changed my life when I met her at 12 years old. She had a faith in me I didn't have in myself. She made the world a better place to be and I am certain I am not the only one to feel this way. I am so honored to share her interview!

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about the Arts. Having music, painting, writing, drawing, singing, dancing being a part of human's everyday life. Using your creativity to make the world a more beautiful place

What accomplishments are you proud of?

I am proud of changing the atmosphere of “sports only” to inclusion of the performing arts in Berkeley Twp and areas around it. I am proud of giving musical experiences to many students. I am proud of raising beautiful people who also are changing the world. I am proud of putting God in the lives of many people both through music and teaching. I am proud of helping many people through tough times mentally, physically and spiritually. I am proud of 30 years of theatre. Shows that bring great memories to anyone who saw or participated in them. Mostly I am proud of never quitting in the tough times and overcoming obstacles.

What are the greatest challenges you have faced?

Well I grew up without much money, on a farm, working from an early age (12) so I could wear something other than hand-me-downs. I worked as a janitor, a waitress, and a cook for many years. I paid my own way through college. No one in my family had ever gone to college. I graduated in 3 years and entered a male dominated job market. At one of my interviews the interviewer asked me “How will you deal with being the only female band director this district has ever had” I answered with my heart but still didn’t get the job. It was challenging to be a woman in a male dominated job but also very difficult to be a Mother and be a Band Director. The hours of rehearsal and planning leave not a lot of time to be a Mom. I was blessed with great kids who loved being with my students and students who loved to help take care of my kids but it took work!

Looking back on your life, what are one or two events that were monumental and changed your life? 

When I was younger I auditioned for a traveling performing group and was accepted. I turned it down and got married and started teaching. The turn around and my life could have been very different. Another turning point in my life was when the job as Musical Director came open and I had been doing other aspects of the musical but now took on the head director position. After 25 years and 25 shows and learning so much daily it was a huge turning point.

What does the word feminism mean to you?

The word feminism sometimes has a negative definition. To me it is not protesting or battling the opposite sex. I feel like being a woman has completely to do with putting yourself out there. Being secure in your abilities to do whatever it is you want to achieve. God made men and women different for many reasons but neither one is better than the other. Growing up I loved that song “I am woman hear me roar” because I knew that as a woman I could do or be anything. Showing that in my career and my family is proof, though it is a struggle to do everything, achievement is worth it.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

I think every strong woman has a Mom that was the most influential. My Mom is super smart but also grew up on a farm and never went to college. She raised 4 amazing kids and put food on the table every day even when the money was short. She was a secretary who eventually ran a whole township, including a police force. She can write, paint, sew, garden, cook, and create something out of nothing. I learned dedication, empathy, loyalty, hard work, ingenuity, and love from her. She is never without love. Not just love for those who are her family and friends but love for people who need it. People who need help, people who are hurting and people in general. Her generous spirit is always apparent, even at 92 years old she still goes and drops off food, books, blankets and magazines to people who can’t get out. I strive everyday to be the woman she is. 

What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

I wish I knew that love is hard, that looks don’t matter, that friends are fickle, that the problems of today can still be worked on tomorrow, that you matter, that the more you create the more creativity you will have, That when things don’t go well, work harder.

What message do you want to send the next generation of women? 

Everyone's journey is different. There isn’t just one right path. Have confidence in who and what you are, tomorrow you can be something else! 

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

Women have a sisterhood that spans many generations. We share, we help, we laugh, we cry, we love, sometimes we hate but at least women have each other to go to the bathroom with if needed…… We need a month to celebrate that!

How can women empower themselves and others?

We need to have a positive outlook, believe in ourselves, set reasonable goals and celebrate the small, medium and big wins. Keep negative people out of your sphere and be that encourager to others. Never, Never give up! One of my favorite quotes- Marcus Annaeus Seneca: “The conditions of conquest are always easy. We have but to toil awhile, endure awhile, believe always, and never turn back.”

Thank You for Reading!

Big thank you to Ree for taking time to share her story with us! I hope you feel inspired to create music and art for yourself in some small way and to share your passions and motivations with the world. Stay tuned for our next feature later on this week!

Young Woman. Daughter. Granddaughter. Sister. Friend. Animal Lover. Artist. Potter. Race Car Driver.

Meet Our Next Feature: Beylea.

When I originally posted about women who would be interested in being interviewed to celebrate Women's History Month, I was thrilled when Beylea's dad reached out to me wondering if I would want to interview an 11 year old race car driver from Jackson. A quick Look at Beylea's racing Facebook page immediately had me entranced. The passion she has for racing was palpable through the screen. This girl eats, breaths and sleeps race cars. She is a part of the NASCAR Youth Series on Dirt and describes herself as "That Girl." From her Facebook, "That Girl started as a nickname from some competitors who wouldn't use my name, but I have turned it into a symbol of my determination and grit. At 11 years old, I am racing hard to prove girls can dominate on the track and chase big dreams like getting to NASCAR and ARCA!" Being a female in motorsports puts a certain pressure on her to break ceilings, but that hasn't stopped her. I don't think anything will. This girl has moxie.

Beylea has grown up in Ocean County. She does pottery for fun and takes care of many animals at her home. She goes to school during the week and spends her weekends on the track, where she feels most at home. She competes and encourages girls even younger than her to not just race but to follow any dream that they have. She frequents 4H and talks about racing to encourage and reach other kids. Her dad grew up around race tracks and shared that love with Beylea. He describes her as loving racing, engineering, and getting her hands dirty. She loves farming and her pet chickens, but doing her make up too. Her mom describes her as a people person, a friend to anyone, and that whenever she wants something she just does it and makes it happen. When I met Beylea I immediately felt that spunky, determined yet carefree energy. She never let being a girl hold her back from pursuing her dream. Even the weekend before our interview she was at the Daytona 500 with her Dad and was talking to other kids there about how she was pursuing her dreams.

Beylea is sponsored by: Tom Stephens Racing, Jersey RC Racing Promotions, Coffee Surf, Living Like Outlaws, Monmouth Jet Center, Blown Away Dust, Seatinserts.com, AMSOIL INC, Five Star Raceway LLC, RaceChoice, The Safety Bank, FastGirlz Apparel Co., Big Brook Farms, Schwarz Racing, Ray Ruggiero, Joy Kronseder.

Fun Fact about Beylea is that she was named after a golf course her great grandfather and her grandfather ran, The Bey Lea Golf Course in Toms River!

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about racing, animals, art and skim boarding. I race indoor and outdoor karts, quarter midget race cars on dirt and asphalt in the NASCAR Youth Series.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

I'm proud of entering my third race season and that girls younger than me are already looking up to me as a role model.

What are the greatest challenges you have faced?

Adapting to different tracks and car set ups. When my brother left for the marines that was hard too. I miss him.

What does the word feminism mean to you?

Being a strong girl and not letting other peoples opinions determine what a woman can or can not do.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

My mom. Her and my dad are raising me. My mom encourages me to pursue my dreams and lets me be myself. She has shaped who I am. My grandmother lives with me too and she is very important to me.

What message do you want to send the next generation of women? 

I want to tell the next generation of girls younger than me that they can do what they want (like race) even if they are a girl. Being a boy doesn't automatically make you better and we shouldn't

be discouraged in male dominated sports. We can still compete and WIN too.

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

Women's History Month reminds us how strong and resilient women really are and that we can persevere!

How can women empower themselves and others?

Women can empower themselves by having confidence in what our minds and skills are capable of. We can't worry about other peoples opinions, just have support for other girls/women and cheer each other on!!

Thank You For Reading!

I had such an amazing time getting to know Beylea!! To follow her journey check her out on Facebook at Beylea Kronseder Racing. This girl is going places! Even though Beylea is only 11, I thought it was important to share her story because she reminds us that no matter your age, or whether you are a woman or man, its never too early or too later to find your passion and GET OUT THERE. Make the moves, dedicate the time and make your passions come alive. Manifest and believe in the beauty of your dreams. Stay tuned for our next feature on Saturday!!

Susan's Feature

Woman. Mother. Sister. Grandmother. Friend. Traveler. Potter. Owner of Rosie's in Ocean Gate.

Meet Our Next Feature: Susan

Susan grew up as a child in Ocean Gate on Barnegat Ave with her family and currently owns Rosie's Restaurant, a community staple. Her father owned a lumberyard business and much of his work was the foundation to structures in Ocean Gate. They built many houses here. She attended Ocean Gate Elementary school and there were only about five people in her class. She remembers a time where even TV wasn't really around. The TV was a piece of furniture back then that had a record player and only played two shows in black and white. All the kids would go outside with 50 cents to get lunch and ride their bikes until dark. There was a lot more imagination back then. They would go outside and play cops and robbers, build tree houses and play on the beach until the sun went down.

Susan had a strong example of strong women growing up from her mother and her grandmother. After her mother was transitioning from raising small children to the next phase of life, she got out into the world and opened up her own fabric store. Susan wanted to see the world when she was younger. Her fourth grade teacher had been an airline stewardess and that really opened up Susan's mind to another world. She saw women could get out there and do anything they wanted to. She dreamed of being an airline stewardess too so that she could travel. She worked at her Dad's store as her first job and met a man who became her husband there which changed her life. She did not anticipate getting married then but he exposed her to a different world outside Ocean County. They would go out and scuba dive and ski and travel the Caribbean. They eventually started a family here and invested in the Bayville Manor in Bayville. Her life was on a different trajectory than she expected.

Eventually they were divorced and Susan wanted to figure out how to get more of an income to help her take care of her children on her own. She took the money she had saved and invested in herself and got a license from a casino school so that she could be a dealer in Atlantic City. She got hired on the spot when she applied and spent over 23 years there part time. It was perfect because she could make good money and still be able to have plenty of time to be with her young children. She took a gamble on herself and it paid off.

She started at Showboat on the boardwalk. It was fast paced and loud, back when they still had real coins coming out of the machines. People would come down on the bus with rolls of quarters. It was alive. After Showboat she moved over to the Borgata to give it a chance against the advice of others, but that was another gamble that turned out to pay off. She was able to support her family through this venture and it gave her benefits and a 401k.

She left the casino when she turned 66 and wanted to travel more. Her son came to her and said, "Mom, you are going to be so bored just staying at home. Let's open a restaurant." She thought he was crazy. She knew nothing about running a restaurant, but he did. So, again, she took a chance, and it paid off. Rosie's is flourishing, and so is Susan and her family. That is the biggest common theme I learned during my time interviewing Susan, to take a chance.

A little interesting history fact about Rosie's, is that the building was originally opened in the early 1900s as an ice cream parlor. When prohibition lifted it was George's Tavern. Susan did some research and found out the code word for a speak easy was ice cream parlor. Very interesting that it could have been a local speak easy!!

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about pottery and traveling. For Christmas I take my family on a big vacation. They all are established and have kitchen knives or anything for the house, so I buy us a big vacation. We all get to get together and interact with each other and it gives us a solid week do just be together. It makes me feel good to see my kids and grandkids together. In September I also take time for myself to travel, like I always wanted to. I go to Italy, or other places and just take real time to be out in the world.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

Raising three self-sufficient children into adulthood. My youngest son is a union worker, my daughter gave me three grandchildren and she worked in NYC for a few years in the Hollywood industry as the head of payroll at MGM. My oldest son owns Rosies with me and is a successful real estate agent.

What are the greatest challenges you have faced?

Figuring out on the fly how to adjust when small children are involved.

Looking back on your life, what are one or two events that were monumental and changed your life? 

Divorce threw me into survival mode & seemed to have made me stronger. Also opening Rosie’s when I seemed to believe I had retired.

What does the word feminism mean to you?

Feminism, to me, simply means having a softer approach to harsh realities. Women can do anything as long as they follow their dreams and are adamant about it.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

Hands down, my mother Rosie. She was an artist. When I was 12 or 13 she would take me to Monmouth County for an art show that she was in. She exposed me to a whole other world that was artistic and funky and showed me another side of her.

What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

How important family traditions are and to continue them.

What message do you want to send the next generation of women? 

Women are like teabags. You don’t know how strong they are until you put them in hot water. Do not underestimate motherhood. It is a hard job to balance. Women are the balancers. We take on so many different roles.

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

It’s always nice to be noticed. There are so many women in history who have done fabulous things and it is important to acknowledge them.

How can women empower themselves and others?

Be true to yourself and rely on gut instincts. Be supportive to each other. If you see someone is down try to help. Encourage each other, brainstorm with each other, and lean on each other.

Thank you for reading!

This was such a great experience for me and I hope you all feel as inspired as I was by Susan. Rosie's is very special to me because they took a chance on me when I was just starting my business. I would not be anywhere near where I am today without them and will always be eternally grateful. It was an honor and a blessing to be able to interview Susan. They are always helping the community in different ways, and their food is out of this world. You can visit Rosie's in Ocean Gate for dinner 6 days a week (closed on Tuesdays)! Give them a follow on instagram @rosiesoceangate. Stay tuned for our next feature!

Aubrey's Feature

Woman. Daughter. Mother. Wife. Sister. Aunt. Fire Marshal. Volunteer Firefighter. Police Dispatcher.

Meet our First Feature: Aubrey

When Aubrey was a sophomore in high school her house caught on fire. She went back to school in clothes out of the house that just burned, and she joked that people probably assumed she had a bon fire party in the backyard. It was on Easter and her dad yelled out telling everyone the house was on fire. While her brother and sister were trying to put it out she got her mom out. This fire lit a spark in her to get involved in the fire department.

Aubrey was born and raised in Ocean County, N.J. She lives here, works here, and raises her children here. I have known Aubrey since I was 12 years old. She always seemed older than all of us, like her feet were firmly planted on the ground, when at that age you could find most of us with our heads in the clouds. She played saxophone in the band in middle school, and did tech work for drama club. She was also a field hockey player. I remember always being envious of how she seemed to have it all together. A Jane of all trades. Someone to look up to. On top of it, she had this infectious laugh and personality. Invitations to sleepovers at her house felt elite. Making her laugh felt like a prize.

In her adult life, she seems exactly the same, but on the next level. You can find pieces of Aubrey's heart and work in so many different places. She is focused on continuing her career and bettering herself. She is a strong mom, and serious when she needs to be. But, she still has that laugh. That energy that made the hour we were together again go by so fast because it was FUN. I am so excited to have her be the first feature.

The Interview

What are you passionate about?

"Professionally, I am passionate about community service and continuing education. As a fire marshal, I most enjoy conducting fire investigations. In my free time, I enjoy snowboarding, kayaking, and hiking. I love sharing these hobbies with my two children."

What accomplishments are you proud of?

"I am most proud of raising two great kids. My daughter attends a vocational high school for law enforcement. She is an accomplished student, musician, and varsity wrestler. She also serves the local community as a cadet with a volunteer emergency medical services (EMS) organization. My son attends a local elementary school and is also an accomplished student, musician, and athlete. He is incredibly kind and his hugs are one of a kind."

What are the greatest challenges you had/have?

"The greatest challenge I have faced was becoming a young mom. Raising a baby when I was just a kid myself was challenging, but we have grown up together.  I am so proud of the young adult my daughter has become."

Looking back on your life, what are one or two events that were monumental and changed your life? 

"Someone very close to me took their own life ten years ago. He was also a first responder, diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and was only 36-years-old at the time.  He left so many unfulfilled dreams behind. This has led me to speak openly about what happened. First responders may experience hundreds of traumatic events in their lifetime, while others may only experience a handful. I want first responders to know about groups such as Cop Line or Next Rung which provide peer support and resources to police officers and firefighters."

What does the word feminism mean to you?

"Feminism, or gender equality, plays a large role in my life as I serve in a male-dominated field. One of the phrases you hear a lot in the fire service is that there is a place for everyone. For the most part, the brotherhood and sisterhood share a greater understanding that diversity makes a stronger team. Man or woman, we all have our strengths and weaknesses."

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

"I have had many strong women influence me throughout my life. So I will answer this question at the foundation. I started playing roller hockey when I was eight years-old. All of the hockey moms always cheered so loudly for me, even when their sons were on the other team. The moms always came over to me and praised me after the game. They might not know it, but they empowered a young girl to grow up to be a confident woman who is always willing to go against the grain."

What do you wish you knew when you were younger?

"Set boundaries, and do not be afraid to say no. Your voice matters. Strong-willed girls grow up to be successful women in leadership roles."

What message do you want to send the next generation of women?

"You can do it. You can do whatever you set your mind to. Work hard, play hard. You will succeed. In this generation, women work full-time jobs and are still full-time moms. Take pride in this. It is hard work, but it is fruitful. If someone thinks you are too much...good."

Why is Women’s History Month important to you? 

"Women's History Month is not just important to me as a woman, but because I have a daughter and nieces who one day will look back and see the road we have paved for the next generation. I am proud to be the first female fire marshal in our jurisdiction, but this is just the beginning. I intend to continue to trail blaze for myself, for my daughter and nieces, and for all of the women that come after us."

How can women empower themselves and others?

"I think your project will have a domino effect by empowering each of us to tell our stories and share it with other women.  One of the greatest ways we can empower ourselves and other women is through self confidence and support.  Be like the hockey moms... Cheer loudly!"

Thank you for reading!

I hope you enjoyed our first feature as much as I enjoyed putting it together. This time with Aubrey was so special to me and I cannot wait for you to see what else we have in store! When I started this project, I just wanted a way of my own to contribute to Women's History Month. Growing up I was always inspired by different women's stories, who showed me I could do or be anything I wanted to be. The vision now is to celebrate women ALL year. To keep the inspiration going! Stay tuned!