Community Spirit Shines at Spring Lakes H.W. Mountz Annual Booster Bash

SPRING LAKE, NJ - H.W. Mountz Elementary School in Spring Lake, a National Blue Ribbon school, recently hosted its annual summer Booster Bash, marking the transition from the end of the school year to the beginning of a new one. This celebrated event is among several key fundraisers organized by the Mountz Booster Club, aiming to enrich the school's programs and facilities.

Craig Lynch, the President of the H.W. Mountz Booster Club, opened the event by acknowledging the unwavering community support. "It's truly special that the community always steps up and helps us out. We couldn't organize these events without their support. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the King Family for their generosity in hosting this event at their beautiful home," Lynch stated.

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The Booster Bash commenced with the ceremonial passing of the torch from the outgoing Booster Board members, many of whom have been dedicated to the Board for the past seven years. Reflecting on their tenure, Lynch said, "After seven incredible years, we are making a transition to a new Board. Myself, Jason Martin, Kevin Farmer, and Dennis Liu have had a great run and a great time, but we're genuinely excited about the next group led by Bobby Smith. Bobby's right-hand man will be Kevin Farmer, who is returning to the Booster Board. Joe Hickman will manage the finances as treasurer, and Mike Tito will take on the role of secretary. The Boosters are in great hands." The event, attended by over 150 enthusiastic participants, successfully raised a net amount of $10,000 for the Booster Club.

Over their seven-year term, the outgoing Booster Board members developed a comprehensive strategy and structured plan to rebuild Booster funding and focus. Their efforts culminated in raising well over $100,000, which funded several significant projects. These include the complete rebuild of the school locker rooms, the installation of a new outdoor scoreboard, and the ongoing renovation of the outdoor basketball court.

A highlight of the evening was the honoring of Ann Marie Callahan, a beloved teacher and coach at H.W. Mountz. Lynch introduced Callahan with great admiration, describing her as "Spring Lake OG - the Original and the fourth Booster Distinguished Award winner." Callahan's deep roots in the community and impressive career were highlighted. "Ann Marie Callahan is a teacher at Mountz, born and raised in Spring Lake. From St. Catherine's, where she played basketball, to St. Rose, and her education completion at Wagner College. From there, she moved on to coaching at Colgate. Ann Marie has been running the Spring Lake girls' basketball program for 25 years, served as the JV basketball coach for 10 years, and has been the Varsity coach for over a decade. Mountz is extremely lucky to have Mrs. Callahan. The Boosters and Mountz community thank you."

In her acceptance speech, Callahan expressed her gratitude and commitment to the community. "It's an honor to be recognized by the Booster Club, which does so many great things for our students at Mountz. Between the Boosters and PTA, they provide immense support for our students. Athletics is a significant part of my life—from playing in elementary school, through high school, to college, and then coaching. Teamwork, leadership, practice—these are the values I aim to instill in your children. I am so fortunate to be part of this community and to teach your children. Go Tigers."

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The Booster Bash not only served as a fundraiser but also as a celebration of community spirit, dedication, and the ongoing commitment to enhancing the educational and extracurricular experiences at H.W. Mountz Elementary School.

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