Autumn & The Holidays at The Shore!
Margaret Thomas Buchholz
Jersey Shore Icon
The Long Branch Pier & Boardwalk
200 Year History
Plus: Calendar of Events
Theater & Concert Events
Jersey Shore Books
Fall Striper Run
Photographs by Tom Lynch
Red Bank Antique Center
Seasonal Guides: Fall Farms & Fun Campgrounds Christmas Trees
October
November
January
April
Welcome to the fall/holiday edition of JERSEY SHORE, the magazine celebrating the Jersey Coast in Ocean and Monmouth counties.
The off-season at the Jersey Shore is a time of beauty and peace, and for many local residents and visitors, it is a favorite time. JERSEY SHORE Magazine and JERSEY SHORE Publications Online are designed to bring you a wealth of information to help make life more enjoyable during the Shore’s “quiet time.” If you’re a local resident or a long-time visitor, you may find things you haven’t discovered or be reminded of offerings you may have forgotten. When using these resources, you’ll find a myriad of information to make your time at the Shore more rewarding and exciting.
In addition to our numerous guides, this issue’s feature articles once again highlight many of the on-going themes that define this magazine— the unique people, places, history, and natural world that make up our lives at the Jersey Shore.
On our cover and throughout our pages, we are proud to present paintings and photographs by the Shore’s most talented artists and photographers. This edition’s cover, “Belmar Fishing Pier,” was painted by Theresa Troise Heidel, one of the nation’s finest watercolorists.
Throughout our guides, you’ll find many places to go and things to do. Our Calendar of Events and Theater and Concert Events sections will guide you through the cultural happenings of the fall and winter seasons in the two counties. Our guides include Attractions and Activities, Parks and Recreation Areas, Historic Sites and Museums, Lighthouses, Public Golf Courses, a Campground Directory, a Fall Farm and Fun Guide, a Choose and Cut Your Own Christmas Tree Guide, and more. You’ll also find guides to Stores and Shops, Art Galleries, Realtors, and Dining Out and Food among others.
Also inside are our annual Holiday Shopping & Dining Guide, offering gift giving ideas as well as holiday dining suggestions, and our Catalog of Books about the Jersey Shore. Be sure to visit our Jersey Shore Books website at www.jerseyshorebooks.com.
Page through JERSEY SHORE Magazine and visit us online. May you find inspiration and discoveries to enrich your life along the beautiful New Jersey Coast.
—George Valente, Editor and Publisher
www.jerseyshoremagazine.com • www.jerseyshorebooks.com
Subscriptions and Book Orders, Toll Free: 888-22-SHORE
2024 marks our forty-first year of publishing magazines, guidebooks, maps, internet sites, and beautiful books about the Jersey Shore. In addition to our two seasonal issues of JERSEY SHORE (spring and fall/holiday), we also publish during the summer months our popular guidebooks and maps, JERSEY SHORE Vacation Magazine, the JERSEY SHORE Vacation Map, and LONG BEACH ISLAND Vacation Magazine. Our publications include two companion websites, JERSEY SHORE Publications Online (www.jerseyshoremagazine.com), the internet’s largest and most informative site about the central and northern New Jersey Coast, and our JERSEY SHORE Books website (www.jerseyshorebooks.com).
6 BOOKS ABOUT THE JERSEY SHORE Catalog 6 – 9
1 0 BEACHCOMBER
A potpourri of Jersey Shore flotsam and jetsam. Stars For Charity. Originating at the Jersey Shore, proceeds from the charity have provided almost 170,000 meals for those in need. 10 Red Bank Antique Center. Celebrating sixty years of fabulous finds. 12 Campground Directory. A guide to campgrounds in Ocean and Monmouth counties. 14
16 A FALL FARM & FUN GUIDE
A guide to pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, farm stands, corn mazes, hayrides, pony rides, petting zoos, haunted attractions, and more!
1 7 C ALENDAR OF EVENTS
A guide to events from October through December. Guide 17 – 23
24 CHOOSE & CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE GUIDE
A guide to choose and cut your own Christmas tree farms.
25 THEATER & CONCERTS
A guide to theater and concert events from October through January. Guide 25 – 27
28 JERSEY SHORE PEOPLE
Margaret Thomas Buchholz. A profile of the Jersey Shore author, historian, and icon.
3 4 CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE & TOURISM INFORMATION 34 ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
A guide to attractions and activities. Guide 34 – 35
Gallery, page 50.
36 PARKS & RECREATION AREAS
A guide to parks, recreation areas, trails, scenic overlooks, and public golf courses. Guide 36 – 38
39 HISTORIC SITES & MUSEUMS
A guide to historic sites, museums, and lighthouses. Guide 39 – 41
42 JERSEY SHORE HISTORY
The Long Branch Pier & Boardwalk. The storied history of this beach resort destination goes back nearly 200 years—with five iconic city piers and a boardwalk playing a central role.
48 COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES / URGENT CARE & HOSPITALS
A guide to colleges and universities and a guide to urgent care and hospitals.
4 9 STORES & SHOPS
A stores and shops plus art galleries, pets, private schools, realtors, taxi and limousine services, and more! Guide: 49 – 51
52 JERSEY SHORE IMAGES
The Fall Run. Striped bass fishing along the Jersey Shore in Autumn. Photographs by Tom Lynch.
Our annual holiday guide to shopping and dining.
62 HOLIDAY SHOPPING & DINING GUIDE
63 DINING OUT & FOOD
A guide to restaurants and nightlife plus banquet facilities, catering, specialty food markets, and more. Guide 63 – 66
SUBSCRIPTIONS: $24.95. You’ll receive: Jersey Shore Magazine (spring and fall/holiday issues), Jersey Shore Vacation Magazine, Jersey Shore Vacation Map, and Long Beach Island Vacation Magazine (summer issues). To subscribe, visit us online at www.jerseyshoremagazine.com. Or please call our Toll Free Subscription Hotline, 24 hours-a-day: 888-22-SHORE (888-227-4673). Please have your credit card ready. Or send your name, address, and a check or money order for $24.95 to: Jersey Shore Publications Subscriptions, P.O. Box 176, Bay Head, NJ 08742-0176. Your subscription will begin with our next issue.
BeauTiful BooKS CelebRaTing
Books From The Publisher of Jersey Shore Magazine!
These regional bestsellers from Jersey Shore Publications will delight lovers of the Jersey Shore and make perfect gifts for special occasions and the holidays!
When you order direct from us, shipping is always free, plus you’ll receive a free one year subscription to Jersey Shore Magazine (a $24.95 value) as our bonus gift to you!
To order, visit us online at www.jerseyshorebooks.com or call toll free: 888-22-SHORE.
Our titles are also available at independent bookstores, gift shops, art galleries, Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com, and other online retailers.
Coffee Table Books Beautifully Printed and Bound with Many Features Not Found in Most Books...
• Oversized to enhance your reading and viewing experience
• Precious gold type and accents, stamped on the covers and spine, adding distinctive, classic beauty
• Superbly printed on archival quality, acid-neutral paper that will not yellow with time
• Sturdy hand-sewn binding (Smyth-sewn), inspected at every stage, for extra strength and durability
Our Gift to You!
Where to Purchase
Some stores may not carry all titles. Please call the store for more information.
www.amazon.com
Barnes & Noble Booksellers www.barnesandnoble.com
Asbury Park Words!, 623 Cookman Avenue
Barnegat Light
Wildflowers By The Lighthouse 410 Broadway
Little Silver
Little Silver Family Pharmacy 10 Church Street
Manasquan
Booktowne, 171 Main Street
Our books will give you many days of reading and viewing pleasure, and they make lasting, memorable gifts. You, your family, and friends will treasure them for years to come. Visit
Bay Head
The Jolly Tar, 56 Bridge Avenue
Beach Haven
The Bywatyr Shop 13001 Long Beach Boulevard
The New Jersey Maritime Museum, 528 Dock Road
Belmar
Paperback Exchange 703 9th Avenue
Brick
David Beaton & Sons 72 Beaton Road
Cranford
Periwinkle’s Fine Gifts 19 North Union Avenue
Edison
Middlesex County College
B&N Bookstore 2600 Woodbridge Avenue
Fair Haven
River Road Books 759 River Road
Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park Office (732) 793-0506
Jersey Shore Moments 209 Route 71
Point Pleasant Borough Butler’s Pharmacy 2301 Bridge Avenue
Point Pleasant Beach
Garden State Yacht Sales 101 Route 35 South
Rumson
The Rumson Pharmacy 22 West River Road
Seaside Heights
The Dock Outfitters 5 Route 35 South
Seaside Park
Shore & More General Store 100 5th Avenue
Ship Bottom Things A Drift 406 Long Beach Boulevard
Spring Lake Frederick Galleries 1405-1 Third Avenue
Kate & Company 1100 Third Avenue
Toms River
With your order from the publisher, you’ll receive a FREE one year subscription to Jersey Shore Magazine (spring and fall/holiday issues), Jersey Shore Vacation Magazine & Map (summer issues), and Long Beach Island Vacation Magazine (summer issues), the magazine, guidebooks, and maps, to sun and fun in Ocean and Monmouth counties at the Jersey Shore. A $24.95 value!
www.jerseyshoremagazine.com
The park office is located about 3.5 miles past the entrance in between the two bathing pavilions. Open 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Note: This location only sells “Island Beach - A Sonnet In the Sands” by Gordon Hesse.
Island Heights
Ocean County Artists Guild Ocean and Chestnut Avenues
Lavallette
Ben Franklin 1205 Grand Central Avenue
Ocean County Historical Society Museum, 26 Hadley Avenue
Picture Perfect Gallery 1307 Route 37 East
Tuckerton
Tuckerton Seaport 120 East Main Street
Wall Township
Colfax Pharmacy 2510 Belmar Boulevard
the Jersey Shore Magazine website:
Precious gold type and accents Sturdy Smyth-sewn bindings
$39.95
288 pages
Hardcover with dust jacket
More than 385 photographs and images
Actual size: 9 1/4" x 12 1/4"
Island Beach – A Sonnet in the Sands –by Gordon Hesse
The Crown Jewel of the
Jersey Shore
This limited-edition, oversized volume by Gordon Hesse, author of All Summer Long - Tales and Lore of Lifeguarding on the Atlantic, tells the story of the park from the time before Europeans arrived to present day.
Part One, “A Sonnet in the Sands,” features the park’s plant and animal life as well as its history.
Part Two, “The Lure and Lore of Island Beach,” features memories and stories of the good gone days at Island Beach from people who spent much of their lives there.
Part Three, “Images of Island Beach,” presents numerous unique historic and current photographs of the park.
Throughout the book are more than 385 exquisite photographs. These stunning images capture every aspect of the park in all four seasons— from the dunes and maritime forests, to the beaches, to the park’s historic and current buildings, and to the sportsmen’s shacks, past and present. Numerous historic photographs reveal the ultimate view into the park’s past as well.
Island Beach - A Sonnet In The Sands captures the beauty of the park second only to the park itself. It is a window into its past and present, a vision now preserved for future generations.
To The Shore Once More, Volume III
– Life at The Jersey Shore –Prose, Poetry, and Works of Art
Prose and Poetry by Frank Finale Works of Art by 45 Contemporary Artists
Jersey Shore Publications is pleased to bring you To The Shore Once More, Volume III, the third and final volume in Frank Finale’s bestselling series of coffee table books about the Jersey Shore.
Join once more acclaimed author and poet Frank Finale as he captures “Life at the Jersey Shore” while exploring universal themes that touch us all. This oversized volume contains more than 130 resplendent paintings by forty-five contemporary artists and features some of the loveliest landmarks and locations at the Shore.
Frank and the artists take readers on a journey through the past and present, from Sandy Hook to Long Beach Island, and these graceful personal essays, poems, and paintings will elicit an emotional response and lingering memory. The book is divided into four chapters by season and takes place in many of the towns and regions along the coast.
This companion volume is one of the most enchanting and beautiful books about the Jersey Shore ever published and will make a great gift for special occasions and holidays. It will bring you closer to the places you love at the Shore and is sure to bring many days of reading and viewing pleasure—you, your family, and friends will treasure it for years to come.
$48.00
204 pages
Hardcover with dust jacket
More than 130 paintings
Actual size: 12 1/4" x 12 1/4"
A Jersey Shore Dream...
BeauTiful BooKS CelebRaTing
$48.00 hardcover with dust jacket 180 pages 12 1/4” x 12 1/4”
$50.00 hardcover 152 pages 9 1/4” x 12 1/4”
$50.00 hardcover with dust jacket 284 pages 12 1/4” x 12 1/4”
$50.00 hardcover with translucent dust jacket
208 pages 12 1/4” x 12 1/4”
$39.95 softcover edition includes extended cover panel flaps
176 pages 9" x 12"
200+ photographs
All Summer Long –Tales and Lore of Lifeguarding on the Atlantic by Gordon
$24.95
208 pages
Hesse
Hardcover with dust jacket
6 1/4" x 9 1/4"
$39.95 softcover edition includes extended cover panel flaps
240 pages 9" x 12"
325+ photographs
The Poets of New Jersey –From Colonial to Contemporary Hardcover with dust jacket: $24.95 Softcover: $19.95
240 pages 6 1/4" x 9 1/4"
Spring Lake, Revisited – A Portrait of the Victorian Era at the Jersey Shore by Patrick Smith
The Bluffs – A Story of a Hotel at the Jersey Shore by Francine LaVance Robertshaw
Long Beach Island Rhapsody – Paintings of the Island by Sixty Contemporary Artists
Dick LaBonté – Paintings of the Jersey Shore and More
Aftermath, Volume I, Ocean County Images of Superstorm Sandy at the Jersey Shore by David Turton
Aftermath, Volume II, Monmouth County Images of Superstorm Sandy at the Jersey Shore by David Turton
the JeRsey ShoRe
To The Shore Once More – A Portrait of the Jersey Shore
Prose, Poetry, and Works of Art
Prose and Poetry by Frank Finale
Works of Art by 11 Contemporary Artists
$44.00
hardcover with dust jacket, 168 pages, 12 1/4" x 12 1/4"
written by Frank Finale • illustrated by Margie Moore
$22.00
hardcover with dust jacket, 36 pages, 10 3/4" x 10 3/4"
A Gull’s Story, Part 3 –Colors at the Shore
Written by Frank Finale
Illustrated by Margie Moore
$22.00
board book, 32 pages
8 1/2" x 8 1/2"
To The II Jersey
To The Shore Once More, Volume II – A Journey Down The Jersey Shore Prose, Poetry, and Works of Art
Prose and Poetry by Frank Finale
Works of Art by 41 Contemporary Artists
$48.00
hardcover with dust jacket, 180 pages, 12 1/4" x 12 1/4"
written by Frank Finale • illustrated by Margie Moore
$22.00
hardcover with dust jacket, 36 pages, 10 3/4" x 10 3/4"
For more information and to order: www.jerseyshorebooks.com
With your order, our gift to you: a free one year subscription to Jersey Shore Magazine!
Also available at bookstores, gift shops, art galleries, Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com, and other online retailers.
“Let us take a journey down the Shore to see what we can find… ”
Stars for Charity
Once Again Shooting Across the Sky
With its strong foundation originating at the Jersey Shore, proceeds from Stars for Charity over the past four years have provided almost 170,000 meals for those in need, and this year’s event looks to exceed past successes.
Local artist and gallery owner Anne LaBonté-Neff founded Stars for Charity in 2002 as a way to lure browsers into her Bay Head gallery, the Anchor & Palette. “I was trying to figure out some way to get people into the unheated gallery when I opened it on the weekends during the holiday season,” she said. The gallery (then located on Mount Street and now inside The Jolly Tar in Bay Head as well as online) displays and sells prints, gifts, and other items and features the works of her late father,
acclaimed artist Dick LaBonté, who is known for his nostalgic scenes of the Jersey Shore.
Stars for Charity entailed wooden stars ranging in size from four to seven inches designed and painted by local artists in their preferred mediums, including oil, acrylic, and watercolor. Among the artists participating in the beginning were Pauline Mickle, Linda Hejduk, Janice Collinson, Dick LaBonté, Al Barker, William Bunting, and more.
The stars were then put up for bid, and the proceeds were donated to a charity selected by the artist after the auction ended.
During the holiday season, LaBonté-Neff displayed the stars in her gallery, and they soon became popular as unique holiday gifts. Bidding would take place in person or by phone.
Stars for Charity ran from 2002 through 2010, and in that time, thousands of dollars were donated to numerous local charities, including Popcorn Park Zoo, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Jersey Shore Animal Shelter, Feed the Children, Oceans of Love, and Bay Head Fire Company No. 1 among others.
Then there was a ten year hiatus.
In the summer of 2021, artist William Bunting relaunched Stars for Charity with LaBontéNeff’s blessings. Bunting paints classic and antique cars, trains, motorcycles, and other vehicles in the photo realistic style. As the new administrator of the relaunched charity, he solicited help from many of his Jersey Shore artist friends, and thanks to the internet, the charity
On auction this year.
By Linda Hejduk.
Painted by Anne LaBonté-Neff of Bay Head, founder of Stars for Charity.
courtesy of William Bunting
courtesy of Manasquan River Group of Artists
soon went worldwide. “All of my art friends were excited to participate,” Bunting said, “but I had no experience running a charity or a gallery.”
With only his ambition and a vision, Bunting embarked on a journey to revive the charity with one change—all proceeds would be pooled together and donated to fight hunger. He knew he would need help, so he presented the idea to his church, New Dover United Methodist in Edison, and the congregation was soon assisting with his mission.
auction
Now in its fourth year since its rebirth, Stars for Charity’s auction goes live on eBay on Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) and runs for twelve days. Bids start at $25., and each star’s listing contains information about its artist. Any unsold stars will be auctioned off at a live event at
Gallery on Mount Street in Bay Head where Stars for Charity was founded. Bunting is the current administrator of the charity.
New Dover United Methodist Church in December.
“All proceeds go to Feeding America and the Bread Breakers ministry, which was started during the pandemic to feed the needy in the area,” Bunting explained. “Each dollar raised will provide multiple meals for those in need and corporate donation matches are welcome.”
In 2021, its first year, the revived charity raised $4,300., which provided almost 26,000 meals. The following year, profits more than doubled to $10,500. and 65,000 meals. Last year yielded 78,000 meals and enough stars to fill a four-panel display at the church.
Bunting believes 2024’s success will go beyond his expectations. “I see a great future for this event, which offers more than just a joyful fundraiser,” he said. “Stars for Charity
connects artists who otherwise would never meet and offers an opportunity to unite galleries and religious institutions while spreading awareness about art and our hunger ministry to the public.”
Bunting hopes the charity’s Jersey Shore roots will continue to provide much needed support for those facing hunger. “Stars for Charity is in its infancy,” he said, “and it’s up to us to keep it growing.”
—Jill Ocone
The 2024 Stars for Charity will be on display from November 20 through November 29 at New Dover United Methodist Church, 687 New Dover Road, Edison.
Bidding goes live on November 29 (Black Friday) on e-Bay, and the auction runs for twelve days. The link is: www.ebay.com/ usr/new_dover_umc.
Any remaining stars will be sold during a live auction at New Dover United Methodist Church in December.
It is William Bunting’s hope that other non-profit organizations, churches, mosques, and synagogues across the country will establish their own Stars for Charity fundraisers to benefit Feeding America and Breaking Bread. Those interested in designing a star or hosting their own Stars for Charity fundraiser can email Bunting at: buntingart@yahoo.com.
Artist William Bunting’s painting of the original Anchor & Palette
On
this year. By Valerie Morone.
On auction this year. By Laura Hart.
courtesy of Laura Hart
courtesy of William Bunting
courtesy of Manasquan River Group of Artists
courtesy of Manasquan River Group of Artists
Red Bank Antique Center
Sixty Years of Fabulous Finds
In1964, Nan Johnson opened on West Front Street in Red Bank what she dubbed the first permanent indoor “Antique Show” in the country. Sixty years later, the Red Bank Antique Center continues to thrive.
The Antique Center encompasses 27,000 square feet in three buildings (although Building I is currently being rented by an interior designer). Home base, Building III, is a landmark, red-paneled building located on the corner of West Front Street and Bridge Avenue. Building II is located about three hundred fifty feet down the road, also on West Front.
Johnson’s son, Guy, began working full time at the store after graduating high school in 1971 alongside his two siblings. “I got into the wholesale side of the business when I learned I could buy furniture for cheap,” Johnson said. “I’d travel to auctions in Ohio then sell the furniture here for a profit.”
Johnson took over managing the business after his mother passed away in 1980. Since then, he continued to amass both his vast knowledge of antiques and his own collection of wares. As his mobility deteriorated, he wasn’t able to climb the stairs any longer, so the upper floors of the Antique Center went untouched for years.
Johnson’s daughter, Kimberly Katz, operated a vegan and organic salon next to the Antique Center for ten years and noticed her father having some difficulties with managing the business. “It was too much for him to do by himself, and after a health scare, I knew it was time for me to help him.” She closed her salon, came on as manager two years ago, and infused new life into the Antique Center.
With a lot of dedication and hard work, Katz transformed the business back into a flourishing antiques hub that operates as a co-op with several dealers who rent space. In return, the dealers each work in the store one to two days a month. “That helps us keep our expenses down with hardly any payroll, and the dealers have the opportunity for face-to-face interactions.”
“She’s created quite a community here with the dealers,” Johnson said, “and everyone works together.”
Katz also helped to organize the second-floor space, where Johnson’s pieces for sale take up the space of ten booths. “Kim keeps pulling stock out of thin air,” he said, “and she really cleaned it up.”
While organizing the second floor, Katz entered her grandmother’s
office, a room that hadn’t been touched in almost thirty years. “It was amazing what I found,” she said. “She died before I was born, so I never met her. But I found her journals and papers, and through those, I got to know my grandmother.” Katz noted her grandmother was, like her, meticulous and neat. “Maybe I inherited those qualities from her,” she said with a smile.
One of the most impressive items on the floor of the Antique Center is a Regina Upright Music Box. Built in 1896, it used to stand on the Asbury Park boardwalk. “I bought it in Shrewsbury, and it was covered in layers of paint. I got the guts working, and a friend who was a cabinet maker fixed the exterior, and here it is, working as great as ever.” The music coming from the box transports customers back to a simpler and more innocent time. While the music box technically isn’t for sale, Johnson quipped, “that is, unless someone makes me a hell of an offer.”
Red Bank Antique Center, Building III, on the corner of West Front Street and Bridge Avenue, Red Bank.
Jill Ocone
Kimberly Katz, manager of the Red Bank Antique Center, and her father, owner Guy Johnson. To the left is the Regina Upright Music Box. Built in 1896, it used to stand on the Asbury Park boardwalk.
Jill Ocone
Visitors are greeted by the store’s unofficial mascot, a life-size, stuffed billy goat, appropriately named “Billy.” Displayed nearby, they can laugh at themselves in front of an old fun house mirror.
Both Katz and Johnson noted changes they’ve seen in the antique industry over the years. “The younger generation isn’t into quality things like Hummel or Lenox,” Johnson said. “They don’t want to put dishes in a dishwasher and would rather use disposable plates.”
Records and music CDs have made a comeback, and many younger customers visit the Antique Center in search of items for their collections. Johnson said, “Ten years ago we could hardly give away records. Now they’ve skyrocketed in popularity.”
Vintage clothing has also experienced a resurgence in demand, and many dealers have seen such items flying from their booths. Other in-demand items are vintage toys in their original boxes or sealed packaging. “Sometimes, the boxes are worth more than the toy because everyone threw the boxes away,” Johnson said.
Both Katz and Johnson agreed that many consumers have misunderstood the meaning of the term “collectible” over the years. “If something is labeled as a ‘collectible’ or comes with a certificate of authenticity, it
basically has no value because everyone bought it thinking it was unique, like a Hess Truck. Most of them have absolutely no value because so many were produced, and there’s really nothing authentic about them,” Johnson explained.
Sterling silver housewares such as tea sets, utensils, candle sticks, and platters used to be the norm on dining tables and commonly given as wedding gifts, but today, those items are worth only the weight of the silver. “Those sets are beautiful,” Katz said, “but nobody wants to clean them. Today, people would rather drink out of plastic cups, but using glass or silver drinkware and place settings is so much better for the environment.” Katz is passionate about repurposing instead of disposing and added, “It’s more sustainable to shop at places like this because it helps the environment and is actually less expensive in the long run.”
Unlike many area businesses, the Red Bank Antique Center weathered the storm of the pandemic. “It was tough, but we made it through. I didn’t charge my dealers rent during the shutdown, but I came to the store every day and listened for the phone to ring,” Johnson said, as the phone next to him coincidentally started to ring.
While many of the dealers have an online presence, the Antique Center is solely brick and mortar and does not
sell anything online. “We prefer our customers to be here and to see, touch, and feel what we sell,” Katz said.
Another contributing factor to the Antique Center’s appeal is the inventory, which is one-of-a-kind yet constantly changing, and nostalgia keeps bringing customers through the doors as they search for that one special object they remember from their upbringing, whether it be a bauble from their grandparents’ holiday tree or a treasured childhood toy. One can get lost while browsing the aisles filled with vintage decor and furniture, jewelry, comics and toys, books, housewares, hardware, advertising memorabilia, and much more.
“We’re a family business and thankful for the past sixty years,” Katz said, “and I am excited about our future and hope my children will one day be working here, too.”
—Jill Ocone
The Red Bank Antique Center is one of the Jersey Shore’s most fun and unique places to visit. It has two buildings full of antiques and collectibles that will transport you back in time. Building III is located at 226 West Front Street in Red Bank, (732) 842-4336; Building II is located about three hundred fifty feet down the road at 195 West Front Street, (732) 842-3393. The Antique Center is open Monday - Saturday 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM and Sunday 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Visit them online at www.antiquecentersofredbank.com.
Vinyl records and CDs have skyrocketed in popularity with the younger generation in recent years.
One can get lost while browsing the aisles filled with vintage decor and furniture, jewelry, comics and toys, books, housewares, hardware, advertising memorabilia, and much more.
Jill Ocone
Jill Ocone
Campground Directory
Ocean & Monmouth Counties
If it’s time to disconnect from reality and reconnect with yourself and nature, consider planning a getaway at one of the many campgrounds open to the public in Ocean and Monmouth counties.
From tents and motorhomes to cabins and luxury rentals, visitors can leave their jam-packed schedules behind and relax under the trees and stars with beaches, parks, and boardwalks only a short drive away.
OCEAN COUNTY
ATLANTIC SHORE PINES CAMPGROUND
450 Ishmael Road, Tuckerton, (609) 296-9163 or 1-888-229-9776
www.atlanticshorepines.com
A family-friendly campground nestled in the Pine Barrens with over 150 sites and a dog park on property. Offering planned activities for children and adults with a social director every weekend throughout the summer. Pets on leashes welcome.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, cabin and lodge rentals
Amenities and Activities: WiFi, clean restrooms, free hot showers, laundry facilities, convenience store, snack bar, firewood, dog park, swimming pool, playground, mini-golf, game room, wallhooky, shuffleboard, horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, planned activities
BAKER’S ACRES CAMPGROUND
230 Willets Avenue, Little Egg Harbor (609) 296-2664
www.bakersacres.com
Established in 1968 by the Baker Family, offering over 300 large and shaded campsites set amidst 60 acres of mountain laurel and natural splendor along the Pine Barrens. Seasonal camping available.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, cabin rentals
Amenities and Activities: hot showers, laundry facilities, camp/convenience store, ice, firewood, swimming pool, playground, pavilion, arcade room, horseshoes, volleyball, hayrides
Most websites will provide seasonal schedules, dates and hours of operation, rates, policies, and reservation information. It is recommended to call or visit the campground’s website before making a reservation.
Compiled from various local, municipal, county, and state websites.
BASS RIVER STATE FOREST
762 Stage Road, Tuckerton, (609) 296-1114
www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/bass. html
Reservations: www.camping.nj.gov
In 1905, Bass River State Forest was the first forest acquired by the state for public recreation, water conservation, and wildlife and timber management. Home to Lake Absegami, a 67acre, man-made lake created in the 1930s, the campground offers 176 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic areas. Group and pet friendly campsites are also available. No alcohol permitted.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, cabin/lean-to/shelter rentals
Amenities and Activities: picnicking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, trails
BUTTERFLY CAMPING RESORT
360 Butterfly Road, Jackson, (732) 928-2107
www.butterflycamp.com
Offering a great family experience with over 120 campsites. Family owned and operated, the staff is dedicated to providing great hospitality and clean facilities.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, cabin rentals
Amenities and Activities: laundry facilities, store, dog bark park, swimming pool, recreation hall, crafts, bingo, fishing pond, ball park, beach volleyball, paintball, ping pong, shuffleboard, wagon rides, special events
Ready for Halloween at Butterfly Camping Resort in Jackson.
Solovyov
INDIAN ROCK RV PARK AND CAMPGROUND
920 W. Veterans Highway, Jackson (732) 928-0034
www.indianrockrvpark.com
A family-run, quiet, and comfortable getaway with over 125 campsites available. For more than 30 years, visitors have enjoyed its 30 acres shaded with pine and oak trees. Group and seasonal campsites available.
Sites: RVs, trailers, cabin rentals
Amenities and Activities: pool, playground, pavilion, game room, table tennis, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes
LONG BEACH RV RESORT AND CAMPGROUND
30 Route 72, Barnegat, (609) 698-5684
Reservation Center: (888) 886-2477
www.sunrvresorts.com/resorts/mid-atlantic/ new-jersey/long-beach
Located just ten miles from the beach, this allage resort boasts over 225 spacious sites and cabin rentals plus a dog park on the grounds.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, cabin rentals
Amenities and Activities: WiFi, cable, restroom, shower and laundry facilities, store, ice, firewood, dog park, swimming pool, playgrounds, jump pillow, mini-golf, covered pavilion, picnic area, game room, shuffleboard, horseshoes, basketball, biking, nature trails
SEA PIRATE CAMPGROUND
148 Main Street, West Creek, (609) 296-7400
www.sea-pirate.com
Family owned and operated since 1970, featuring over 250 campsites and 37 rental units.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, basic and deluxe cabins and cottages
Amenities and Activities: quick service food galley, dog park, heated pool, two playgrounds, jumping pillow, golf cart rentals, arcade, fishing pond, crabbing, kayaking, basketball court, baseball field, horseshoes, gaga pit, weekly themed activities
TIP TAM RV CAMPING RESORT
301 Brewers Bridge Road, Jackson (732) 363-4036
www.tiptam.com
A safe, friendly campground to enjoy the great outdoors at over 150 campsites.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, cabin and RV rentals
Amenities and Activities: free WiFi, modern restrooms, free showers, laundry facilities, camp store, snacks, ice, firewood, swimming pool, mini-golf, tiki bar, sandy and shady sites, outdoor racetrack, basketball, baseball/softball field, horseshoe pit, bocci court, shuffleboard
MONMOUTH COUNTY
ALLAIRE STATE PARK
4265 Atlantic Avenue, Farmingdale (732) 938-2371
www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/ allaire.html
Reservations: www.camping.nj.gov
Allaire State Park provides habitat for over 200 species of wildflowers, trees, and plants, as well as birds and other wildlife. The park is home to Allaire Village, a 19th century iron-making town, as well as the Pine Creek Railroad. All campsites are open from April 1 through December 15. There are two campground sites. Allaire Campground offers 45 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables as well as ten cabin-like shelters with wood stoves and two double-deck bunks that sleep up to four people. The shelters are also accessible to persons with disabilities. The Allaire Group Campground offers six sites that are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables; two sites have a maximum capacity of 25 people and four can accommodate up to 50 people. No alcohol permitted.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, shelter rentals, group campsites
Amenities and Activities: Allaire Village, visitor’s center/museum/nature center, Pine Creek Railroad, playground, picnicking, pond, fishing, canoeing, trails, bird watching
CHEESEQUAKE STATE PARK
300 Gordon Road, Matawan, (732) 566-2161 www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/ cheesequake.html
Reservations: www.camping.nj.gov
Cheesequake State Park is tucked between the urban north and the suburban south in a transitional zone between two different ecosystems. The park has open fields, saltwater and freshwater marshes, a white cedar swamp, the Pine Barrens, and a northeastern hardwood forest. The campground offers 53 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. (There is an 11foot height restriction for vehicles entering the camping area.) Group and pet friendly campsites also available. No alcohol permitted.
Sites: tents, trailers
Amenities and Activities: showers, nature center, playground, picnicking, fishing, boating, canoeing, swimming, water sports, trails, mountain biking
PINE CONE RESORT
340 Georgia Road, Freehold, (732) 462-2230
www.pineconenj.com
A tranquil place to relax with a family-oriented atmosphere and over 100 campsites.
Sites: tents, RVs, trailers, cabin rentals
Amenities and Activities: free WiFi and cable TV, free hot showers, laundry facilities, camp store, swimming pool, playground, pavilion, game room, tennis/basketball courts, volleyball, soccer and softball fields, horseshoe and bocce ball courts
TIMBERLAND LAKE CAMPGROUND
1335 Reed Road, Cream Ridge, (732) 928-0500
www.timberlandlakecampground.com
A family campground with over 200 sites on 54 acres located just four miles off I-195 and minutes away from Six Flags Great Adventure, New Egypt Speedway, and other area attractions. This old-fashioned campground with modern amenities also boasts a private, 5-acre lake for fishing and boating and an Olympic-sized swimming pool.
Sites: tents, RVs, campers, trailers
Amenities and Activities: bath houses, hot showers, camp store, swimming pool, mini-golf, playground, arcade, pool table, darts, horseshoe pit, fishing, boating, hayrides, outdoor movies, recreation activities in-season
TURKEY SWAMP PARK / NOMOCO ACTIVITY AREA
200 Georgia Road, Freehold, (732) 462-7286
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Monmouth County Parks manages the campground at Turkey Swamp. With 64 pull through campsites, campers can look forward to a relaxing stay surrounded by 2,266 wooded acres and a 17-acre scenic lake. Pets on leashes are welcome. No alcohol. Please note that only organized groups with a charter may reserve campsites at the Nomoco Group Campground located on the premises at the Nomoco Activity Area.
Sites: tents, RVs, campers, trailers, cabins
Amenities and Activities: vending machines, playgrounds, picnicking, boat rentals, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, archery range, bicycling, playing fields, soccer fields, trails, hiking u
Indian Rock RV Park and Campground in Jackson.
Cheesequake State Park in Matawan.
A FALL FARM & FUN GUIDE
To Pick-Your-Own Apples & Pumpkins, Farm Stands, Corn Mazes, Hayrides, Pony Rides, Petting Zoos, Haunted Attractions, and More!
Although every effort was made to provide accurate information, please call or check the website before attending.
Weather, heavy picking, and business conditions can affect hours of operation and crop harvesting
ALLAIRE COMMUNITY FARM
1923 Baileys Corner Road, Wall (732) 796-3298
www.allairecommunityfarm.com
Petting zoo, market, pumpkin patch, barrel train rides, and more. Visit website for up-to-date seasonal activities and events. Open Mon. - Sat. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Sun. 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Closed on Thanksgiving.
ANTONIO CASOLA FARMS, NURSERY & GREENHOUSES
178 Route 34, Holmdel, (732) 332-1533
www.acasolafarms.com
Pumpkin patch, unhaunted corn maze, hayrides, picnic area, petting zoo, pony rides, and farm stand. Fri. and Sat. night pumpkin picking. Call or visit website for hours.
ARGOS FARM
1250 Lacey Road, Forked River (609) 693-3513
www.argosfarm.com
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides, train rides, pony rides, pig races, rubber duck races, farm animals, and seasonal activities. Admission fee. Call or visit website for hours.
ATLANTIC FARM MARKET
1506 Atlantic Avenue (Route 524) Wall, (732) 528-8660
www.atlanticfarmmarket.com
Hayrides, corn mazes, petting farm, pick-your-own pumpkin patch, face painting, picnic area, and more. Hayrides available through Dec. 31. Open Mon.Sat. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Sun. 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
BATTLEVIEW ORCHARDS
91 Wemrock Road, Freehold (732) 462-0756
www.battlevieworchards.com
Pick-your-own peaches, apples, pumpkins. Hayrides on weekends. Country store. Open year-round, May - Dec. 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Jan. - Apr. 9:00 AM5:00 PM. Closed Tues.
BULLOCK FARMS
83 Emleys Hill Road, Cream Ridge (609) 758-8726
www.bullockfarms.com
Hayrides, pumpkin patch, corn maze, sunflowers, and kids’ corner. Open mid-Sept. - Oct. 31, Fri.Sun. 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Closed Mon. - Thurs.
C. CASOLA FARMS
131 Route 79 South (2.5 miles south of Route 520), Marlboro, (732) 946-8885 www.hauntedcasola.com
Haunted hayrides, wooded trail, corn maze, barn, and zombie breakout. Pumpkins, hayrides, pony rides, seasonal “bootique,” and witches brew refreshments. Open mid-Sept. - Oct. 31, Fri. and Sat. 7:00 PM10:30 PM; Sun. and Halloween 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM.
DEARBORN MARKET
2170 Route 35, Holmdel, (732) 264-0256 www.dearbornmarket.com
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, straw crawl, pony rides, picnic area, and organic turkeys for Thanksgiving dinner. Private parties. Open daily year-round 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM.
DELICIOUS ORCHARDS
320 Route 34, Colts Neck, (732) 462-1989 www.deliciousorchardsnj.com
Country food market, pumpkins, apples, and outdoor café. Pick your own apples at Eastmont Orchards (see listing below). Open year-round, Tues. - Sun. 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM.
EASTMONT ORCHARDS
181 Route 537 East (one mile east of Route 34), Colts Neck, (732) 542-5404 www.eastmontorchards.com
Pick-your-own apples, peaches, and pumpkins. Open daily till the end of Oct., Mon. - Fri. 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Sat. and Sun. 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM.
EMERY’S BERRY FARM
346 Long Swamp Road (off Route 539) New Egypt (609) 758-8514
www.emerysfarm.com
Pumpkin patch, farm market, farm animals, hayrides, and corn maze. No pets please. Call for hours.
HALLOCK’S U-PICK FARM
38 Fischer Road (off Route 528) New Egypt, (609) 758-8847
www.hallocksupick.com
Pick-your-own produce including pumpkins and a farm stand. Open Mon. - Fri. 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM; Sat. and Sun. 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
KROWICKI’S FARM MARKET & GREENHOUSE
862 Route 539, New Egypt, (609) 477-2313
www.facebook.com/KrowickisFarmMarket
Pick-your-own apples. Pumpkins and seasonal baked goods made with ingredients grown on the farm. Open daily through Oct. 31, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
NIGHTMARE AT GRAVITY HILL
Hosted at Cicconi Farm 1005 Farmingdale Road, Jackson (732) 703-4198
www.nightmareatgravityhill.com
Haunted Halloween attractions, walk of terror, and zombie paintball. Open Sept. 13 - Oct. 26, Fri. and Sat. dusk till 11:00 PM.
PATTERSON GREENHOUSES & FARMS
636 Adelphia Road, Farmingdale (732) 431-5271
www.pattersongreenhouses.com
Pumpkins, gourds, Indian corn, cornstalks, straw, mums, and fall produce. Call for hours.
SILVERTON FARMS
1520 Silverton Road, Toms River (732) 244-2621
www.silvertonfarmsnj.com
Organic pumpkin patch, educational hayrides, cider press demonstrations, and antique farm equipment museum. Open through the end of Oct., Tues. - Sat. 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sun. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Nov.: weekends only.
TWIN POND FARM
Country Market: 1473 Route 9 North Howell, (732) 863-9363
Garden Center: 1459 Route 9 North Howell, (732) 863-0755
www.twinpondfarm.com
Country market, seasonal plants and decorations, hayrides, corn maze, pumpkins, gourds, games. Open Mon. - Sat. 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Sun. 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Garden Center open Mon. - Sat. 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Sun. 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
WEMROCK ORCHARDS
100 Wemrock Road, Freehold (732) 431-2668
www.wemrockorchard.com
Farm market, country bakery, haunted hayrides, corn maze, pick-your-own pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks, Indian corn, cider. Open daily from the end of Sept.Halloween, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Monmouth and Ocean Counties
Although every effort was made to provide accurate information, please call or check the website for up-to-date information before attending.
October, November, and December 2024
ALL SEASON LONG
OCEAN COUNTY:
Events at Mathis House in Toms River Advance ticket purchase required.
The Mathis House, 600 Main Street, Toms River, (732) 818-7580 www.mathishouse600main.com
10-18, 10-31: Murder Masquerade Dinner
Tickets: $75.; seniors: $55., 10-18: 7:00 PM; 10-31: 5:00 PM
10-24: Tea Club Meeting Complimentary, 6:00 PM
10-31: Halloween Watch Party
Tickets: $25.; seniors: $15., 7:00 PM
11-1 - 11-3: Harvest Victorian Tea
Tickets: adults: $50.; 12 and under: $20.; 5 and under: free, call for hours
Wednesdays - Sundays, 11-7 - 1-31: Victorian Holiday Teatime
Tickets: adults: $50.; 12 and under: $20.; 5 and under: free, 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM
11-12, 11-19, 12-3, 12-10, 12-17: Tea and Scones with Santa
Tickets: adults: $20.; 12 and under: $10., 6:30 PM 11-13, 11-20, 11-27, 12-11, 12-18: Holiday Open House and Night of Shopping Complimentary, 6:30 PM
11-14, 11-22: Friendsgiving Dinner Tea Party
Tickets: $50., 7:00 PM
11-30, 12-14: Yule Tide High Tea
Tickets: $75.; seniors: $55., 7:00 PM
12-4: Frozen ‘Elsa’ Princess Tea Party
Tickets: adults: $20. children: $10., 6:30 PM
12-13: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Tickets: $75., 7:00 PM
12-20: Holiday Dinner
Tickets: $75.; seniors: $55., 7:00 PM
12-21: Annual Ugly Sweater Karaoke Night
Tickets: $42.; seniors: $22., 7:00 PM
12-31: Elvis Matinee
Tickets: $50.; seniors: $20., 4:00 PM
12-31: Great Gatsby Roaring 20s Jazz Band
Tickets: $100., 7:00 PM
Fun and Food at Laurita Winery in New Egypt
Please visit the website for up-to-date events. Advance ticket purchase recommended. 35 Archertown Road, New Egypt, (609) 758-8000 www.lauritawinery.com
10-19 - 10-20: Oktoberfest Food Truck Festival, Sat.: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Sun.: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
10-24: Paint and Sip, 6:30 PM
10-26 - 10-27: Halloween Food Truck Festival, Sat.: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Sun.: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
11-15: Wade Preston’s Tribute to Billy Joel, 7:00 PM
12-7: “Walking the Line” Johnny Cash Christmas Concert, 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM
Tours of Navy Lakehurst
Experience the amazing history of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Naval Air Station. Tours include The Cathedral of The Air, The Hindenburg Crash Site, The Navy Lakehurst Heritage Center, The Ready Room, The POWMIA Room, and Historic Hangar One. Due to security requirements, you must pre-register
two weeks prior to your tour. To register: (732) 600-8055 or tours@nlhs.com. No walkins or additions to the group will be accepted on the day of the tour.
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Naval Air Station, Route 547, Lakehurst, (732) 323-6547 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM www.nlhs.com
April - October: Every Wednesday and 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month November - March: Every Wednesday and 2nd Saturday of the month
70th Annual Long Beach Island Surf Fishing Classic
Prizes for tournament’s largest striped bass and bluefish. Special categories and prizes for juveniles, ladies, and senior citizens. Daily and weekly winners. One of East Coast’s longest running fishing contests. Entry fee. Information and pre-registration: (609) 494-7211 ext. 100 www.lbift.com
Through 12-8
Holiday Market in Loveladies
During the holiday season, the LBIF transforms into a holiday market chock full of handmade artisan gifts by local artists. From amazing clothing and jewelry to ceramics, paintings, home decor, and more. Food and fun for all. The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences, 120 Long Beach Boulevard, Loveladies, (609) 494-1241
Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM; weekends: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM www.lbifoundation.org 11-16 - 12-15
“Cattus Island Clouds” by Ann Hayes
See Picture Perfect Gallery, page 50.
EVENTS AT MONMOUTH COUNTY PARKS
MONMOUTH COUNTY PARK SYSTEM
805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, (732) 842-4000; www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Please refer to the listing on page 37. Pre-registration is required for all programs. Visit the website for registration information and additional events including day trips, hiking and kayak tours, recreation/health/wellness programs, and more. Unless otherwise noted, programs are open to all ages.
BAYSHORE WATERFRONT PARK
719 Port Monmouth Road
Port Monmouth, (732) 783-3033 or (732) 842-4000
Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays through 10-31: Seabrook-Wilson House Tours, 1:00 PM4:00 PM. Free.
10-18: Fly Me To The Moon, 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Free.
10-24: Nature Lecture Series: The Real Story of the Jersey Devil, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Free.
BIG BROOK PARK
Main Entrance: 521 Route 520, Marlboro Activity Center: 80 Boundary Road, Marlboro (732) 842-4000
11-14: Awesome Autumn Amble, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM. Free.
CLAYTON PARK
Trail Head Parking: 61 Emley’s Hill Road Imlaystown; Activity Center: 202 Davis Station Road, Imlaystown, (609) 259-5784 or (732) 842-4000
10-24: Awesome Autumn Amble (adults), 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM. Free.
11-17: Wines and Pines (ages 21 and up), 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM. Fee.
11-10: Old Fashioned Fun and Games, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Free.
11-15: You Are Cordially Invited to Tea (ages 17 and up), 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM. Fee.
HOLMDEL PARK AND HISTORIC LONGSTREET FARM
44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel (732) 946-3758 or (732) 842-4000
10-19, 11-16: Accordion Melodies of the 1890s, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Free.
10-20: 19th Century Woodworking Demonstration, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Free.
10-26, 11-3, 11-23: Morning Farm Chores (ages 4 and up), 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM. Fee.
10-26, 11-9, 11-23: Cookstove Demonstration, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Free.
10-27: Made Fresh From Scratch, Fall Edition (adults), 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Fee.
11-3: Keeping Backyard Chickens (adults), 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Fee.
11-10: Elements of Blacksmithing (adults), 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM; 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM; 12:00 PM - 12:50 PM; 1:00 PM - 1:50 PM; 2:00 PM - 2:50 PM. Fee.
11-11 - 11-17: Registration for December Gingerbread Contest, “Winter on the Farm.” To register: (732) 946-3758.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
ALL SEASON LONG, continued from page 17
Events at Tuckerton Seaport
Please refer to the listing on page 34. Please call or check the website before attending. Tuckerton Seaport, 120 West Main Street (Route 9), Tuckerton, (609) 296-8868 www.TuckertonSeaport.org
Sundays: Pickin’ On The Porch, noon5:00 PM
Come to pick, sing, listen, swap songs, tell stories, and share a pot of beans and homemade bread. Acoustic bluegrass, country, and old time music $5. includes admission to all exhibits. Free for Seaport members.
10-26, 11-23, 12-6: Birding Boat Tours, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join Josh Gant on a narrated tour from Tuckerton up to the mouth of the Mullica River or to Holgate. Traveling through Great Bay, participants will be on the lookout for egrets and herons or winter waterfowl including brants, grebes, loons, and other shorebirds. Fee: members: $20.; non-members: $25.
MONMOUTH COUNTY:
Farmers’ Markets in Monmouth County Farmers and artisans offering fresh, local produce and handmade goods.
Wednesdays & Saturdays:
Holmdel: Bell Works, 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Wed.: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Sat.: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM; www.asburyfresh.com (through 12-21)
DORBROOK RECREATION AREA
353 Route 537, Colts Neck, (732) 542-1642 or (732) 842-4000
11-12: Casual Birder (ages 10 and up, meet in basketball court lot), 9:00 AM. Free.
FORT MONMOUTH RECREATION CENTER
2566 Guam Lane, Tinton Falls, (848) 456-4278 or (732) 842-4000
11-9: Fall Craft Show, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Free.
FRENEAU WOODS PARK
360 Monastery Lane, Aberdeen Township (732) 264-7277 or (732) 842-4000
11-15: Full Moon Walk (adults), 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Fee.
11-16: Nature Lecture: Raccoons in Your Backyard, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Free.
11-17: Climb Time (ages 8 and up), 12:00 PM3:00 PM. Free.
HARTSHORNE WOODS PARK
300 Navesink Avenue, Locust (Buttermilk Valley Entrance)
1402 Portland Road, Highlands (Rocky Point Entrance)
239 Locust Avenue, Locust (Claypit Creek) (732) 872-0336
Wednesdays - Sundays through 11-24: Historic Portland Place Tours, 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM. Free.
11-17: Cider Making Demonstration, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Free.
11-30: Hot Mulled Cider, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Free.
HUBER WOODS
25 Brown’s Dock Road, Locust section of Middletown, (732) 872-2670 or (732) 872- 0336
HISTORIC WALNFORD COUNTY PARK
62 Walnford Road, Upper Freehold (609) 259-6275 or (732) 842-4000
Weekend Mill Demonstrations: Saturdays and Sundays through 11-17: 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM
10-19, 11-2: Woodworking at Walnford, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Free.
10-20, 11-17: Story Time (grades Pre-K - 2nd), 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM. Free.
10-20: Music on the Porch, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Free. 10-27: Trick-or-Treat in Historic Walnford, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Free.
Fridays and Saturdays through 10-26: Creatures of the Night Wagon Rides, various time. Fee.
10-27: Critters and Jitters (all ages), 10:00 AM11:15 AM, 10:45 - 12:00 PM, 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM. Fee.
MANASQUAN RESERVOIR
Park and Visitor Center: 311 Windeler Road Howell, (732) 919-0996 or (732) 842-4000 Environmental Center: 331 Georgia Tavern Road, Howell, (732) 751-9453
10-22: Casual Birder (ages 10 and up), 9:00 AM. Free.
THOMPSON PARK
805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft (732) 842-4000 ext. 4312
10-20: Thompson Park Day, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Free.
10-22: Forest Eats and Wild Treats (adults), 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM. Fee.
11-3: Open Mic Poetry - Blackout/Erasure, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM. Free.
11-9: Open Shoot Archery (ages 10 and up), 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Fee.
11-16: Family Paper Turkey Hunt (ages 9-12 with adult), 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Fee.
TURKEY SWAMP PARK
200 Georgia Road, Freehold Township (732) 462-7286 or (732) 842-4000
10-26 - 10-27: Family Halloween Camping, 12:00 PM - 11:00 AM. Fee.
10-20, 10-27: Primitive Fire (adults), 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Fee.
Saturdays: Highlands: Huddy Park, Bay and Waterwitch Avenues, (732) 291-4713, 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM; www.highlandsnj.com (through 11-16) Saturdays & Sundays: Englishtown: Englishtown Auction, 90 Wilson Avenue, (732) 446-9644, 8:00 AM4:00 PM; www.englishtownauction.com (yearround)
Sundays:
Asbury Park: Press Plaza, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM; www.asburyfresh.com (through 11-17)
Red Bank: The Galleria, corner of Bridge Avenue and West Front Street, (732) 5307300, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM; www.thegalleriaredbank.com (through 11-17)
Manasquan River Group of Artists on Display
Pieces from members of the Manasquan River Group of Artists will be on display. www.mrga38.org
9-28 - 11-7: Terner House Gallery, 701 Deal Road, Ocean Township, (732) 674-2038
11-4 - 12-31: Wall Library, 2700 Allaire Road, Wall, (732) 674-2038; opening reception Nov. 6, 2:00 PM.
Spring Lake’s Christmas Train Village Visit the trains on display. Duggan Hall, 313 Washington Avenue, Spring Lake 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM www.springlake.org/christmas 11-30 - 12-31
Tours of New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Holmdel
Self-guided tours are welcome 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Guided tours and group tours are available by request. The Vietnam Era Museum is open Tues. - Sat. 10:00 AM4:00 PM.
New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, GSP Exit 116, 1 Memorial Lane, Holmdel, (732) 335-0033
www.njvvmf.org
OCTOBER
Kids Boo Fest and FrightFest at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Dare to enter the Halloween event of the season, featuring family-friendly attractions during the day and thrills once the sun goes down. Kids Boo Fest features family friendly trick-or-treating, unique fall festivities, fun character photo opportunities, and delicious treats.
Six Flags Great Adventure, Route 537, Jackson, (732) 928-1821
www.sixflags.com/GreatAdventure Select dates through 11-3
10-19: Harvest Arts Festival in Toms River
The show will feature over twenty artists displaying their work for a juried art show and for sale. Live entertainment and downtown restaurants and businesses will be open for lunch, dinner, and shopping. Downtown Toms River, Washington Street, (732) 341-8738
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM www.downtowntomsriver.com
10-19: 39th Annual Fall Beach Sweeps Beach clean ups throughout the state sponsored by Clean Ocean Action. Please check the website for further information, registration, and necessary preparation. Cleanups will be at the following sites: Ocean County: Bay Head, Brick, Lakewood, Lavallette, Long Beach Island, Ocean Gate, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, Midway Beach, Toms River. Monmouth County: Aberdeen, Allenhurst/Loch Arbour, Asbury Park, Atlantic Highlands, Avon, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Deal, Highlands, Keansburg, Keyport, Long Branch, Manasquan, Middletown Township, Monmouth Beach, Neptune City, Ocean Grove, Red Bank, Sandy Hook, Sea Bright, Sea Girt, Spring Lake, Union Beach, Wall Township, West Long Branch. (732) 872-0111
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM www.cleanoceanaction.org
10-19: A Taste of Spring Lake Kitchen Tour
Sponsored by H.W. Mountz PTA. Spring Lake, (734) 449-0577 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM www.springlakekitchentour.com
10-19 - 10-20: 25th Annual New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge
Lighthouse enthusiasts climb every lighthouse in the state over this exciting twoday event. Visit ten coastal lighthouses, two museums housing first order Fresnel lenses, and three lifesaving stations. Sites along the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, and Delaware River, including three in Ocean County (Barnegat Lighthouse, the Barnegat Light Museum, and Tuckers Island Lighthouse at Tuckerton Seaport) and four in Monmouth County (Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Twin Lights Of Navesink in Highlands, Sea Girt Lighthouse, and Squan Beach Life Saving
Station #9 in Manasquan). Climbing not necessary to participate. Some lighthouses charge a fee to visit/climb and others have special events in conjunction with challenge. Refreshments and children’s activities. See website for lighthouse addresses and locations. Sponsored by the NJ Lighthouse Society. Sat.: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Sun.: 8:00 AM6:00 PM
www.lighthousechallengenj.com www.njlhs.org www.tuckertonseaport.com
10-19 - 10-20 and 10-26 - 10-27: Boo at the Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach
The Boo-Tastic package returns with favorite boardwalk fun including crafts, face painting, trick-or-treating, entertainment, limited kiddie rides, underwater pumpkin carving, and more. See website for additional information. Tickets can be purchased at Guest Services in front of the aquarium.
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 892-0600
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
www.jenkinsons.com
10-20: Annual Homegrown Festival in Point Pleasant Beach
A fun day of authors, art, and music! Sponsored by the Point Beach Cultural Arts Committee. Rain date: 10-27-24.
Arnold and Bay Avenues, Point Pleasant Beach, 1-888-772-3862
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
www.arts.pointpleasantbeach.org
10-24: Ladies Night Out in Point Pleasant Beach
Downtown will be bustling with in-store specials, discounts, raffles, and entertainment. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served at many locations. This event is free. Rain or shine! Sponsored by the Point Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Arnold and Bay Avenues, Point Pleasant Beach, 1-888-772-3862 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM www.pointchamber.com
10-25: Celebrating the Jersey Shore Talk with Author Margaret Thomas Buchholz in Beach Haven
Join author Margaret Thomas Buchholz as she illustrates the shore experience over the decades. Buchholz will also share readings from her books Shore Chronicle - Diaries and Traveler’s Tales from the Jersey Shore, 1764-1955 and Island Album - Photographs and Memories of Long Beach Island. Free. Beach Haven Public Library, 219 N. Beach Avenue, Beach Haven, (609) 492-7081. 2:00 PM www.beachhavenlibrary.org
10-26: Sherlock Holmes and The Ghostly Fisherman Fundraiser in Beach Haven
A mysterious gathering of libations and light fare under the moonlight to solve the mystery and raise funds for an ADA-compliant lift/ ramp for the Fisherman’s Cottage addition at the museum. Tickets: $85.
Long Beach Island Historical Association Museum, Engleside and Beach Avenues, Beach Haven, (609) 709-1425 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM www.lbihistoricalmuseum.org
THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE
Allaire State Park, 4263 Atlantic Avenue (Route 524), Farmingdale, Village: (732) 919-3500; Park: (732) 938-2371 www.allairevillage.org www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/ allaire.html
Please refer to the listings on pages 36 and 39.
The Village Craft Shops and Historic Homes are open Sat. and Sun. 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM from April through November and for special events only from December through March.
The Bakery and General Store are open Fri., Sat., and Sun. 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM from April through December and for special events only from January through March.
Advance ticket reservations are recommended or required for all events. Please call or check the website for more information and for off-season and holiday hours.
10-11, 10-12, 10-18, 10-19, 10-25, 10-26: Night of Frights at the Village Fee. Advance tickets required. 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
10-13, 10-20: Allaire Ghost Tours
Ages 12 and up. Fee. Advance tickets required. 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
10-27: 1830s All Hallow’s Eve Celebration
Children’s activities, trick or treating, seasonal historic demon stations, bring your own carved pumpkin for the carving contest. Rain date: 10-28-24. 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
11-1 - 11-3: Auxiliary Stocking Stuffer Sale
Handcrafted items including ornaments, scarves, decorations, quilts, and more.
Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
11-2: Late Fall Flea Market
Hunt for treasures among knick-knacks, upcycled furniture, collectibles, signs, art, bottles, and much more! Fee. Rain date: 11-3-24. 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
11-9: Holiday Craft Show
Featuring crafters, artisans, demonstrations, and more. Fee. Rain date: 11-10-24. 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
11-10: History Kids Club
History Kids Club is designed for children, ages 5-12, who want to experience history first hand and learn the different trades, tasks, and lifestyles of an 1830s Howell Iron Works villager. This month’s theme: color your own cloth. $12. Pre-registration required. 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
12-7, 12-14: Christmas Lantern Tours
Celebrate the holiday season with a stroll through the lantern lit village and learn about Christmas in 1836. Music, history, and a little bit of theater. Not recommended for children. Fee. Advance ticket purchase required. 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
12-8, 12-15: Christmas at Allaire Village
Come celebrate the joys of Christmas past. Experience the sights and smells of an early American Christmas with hearth cooking, singing, dancing, wagon rides, and St. Nicholas. Fee. 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
12-13, 12-20, 12-21, 12-22: Holiday Stroll
A self-guided, relaxing stroll throughout the village at night with the village decorated in lights. Fee. 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
EVENTS AT OCEAN COUNTY PARKS
OCEAN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, 1-877-OC PARKS; www.oceancountyparks.org
Please refer to the listing on page 37.
Pre-registration is required for all programs. Visit the website for registration information and additional events including day trips, hiking and kayak tours, recreation/health/wellness programs, and more. Unless otherwise noted, programs are open to all ages.
CATTUS ISLAND COUNTY PARK AND COOPER ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
1170 Cattus Island Boulevard (off Fischer Boulevard), Toms River, (732) 270-6960 or 1-877-OC PARKS
Nature Walks: Saturdays and Sundays through 12-29 (except 12-13), 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Free. 10-27: Create Your Own Walking Stick (ages 11 and up), 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Fee.
11-1, 12-13: Toddler Nature Trek (ages 2-5), 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Fee.
11-7: DIY Chunky Basket (ages 14 and up), 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM. Fee.
11-9: Crochet Basics - Breakfast Edition (ages 14 and up), 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM. Fee.
11-14: Beginner Astronomy - Buying Your First Telescope (ages 10 and up), 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM.
11-18: Living Shoreline Restoration Project (ages 12 and up), 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Fee.
11-19: Chunky Yarn Snowman (ages 14 and up), 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Fee.
12-11: Learn Amigurumi (ages 15 and up), 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM. Fee.
12-14: Winter Solstice, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Free.
11-30: Wheat Weaving - Candy Cane (ages 15 and up), 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Fee.
12-6: Reindeer Pair with Mary May (adults), 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
12-7: Nature Walk with Santa (ages 2 - 7 with parent/guardian), 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Fee.
12-15: Family and Pet Photos with Santa Claus, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Free.
12-26 - 1-5: Gingerbread House Voting, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
CEDAR BRIDGE TAVERN
200 Old Halfway Road, Barnegat (732) 929-4769 or 1-877-OC PARKS
10-27: Legends of the Jersey Devil (all ages), 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Fee.
11-6, 11-30, 12-21, 12-28: Tour of Cedar Bridge Tavern grounds, 10:00 - 11:00 AM. Free.
11-10: International Incident: The Hanging of Captain Huddy (all ages), 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
12-1: The Affair at Cedar Bridge (snow date: 1-5-25), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
12-15: Artwork of the Mary Etta Cox House, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Fee.
CLOVERDALE FARM COUNTY PARK
34 Cloverdale Road, Barnegat 1-877-OC PARKS
12-14: Wheat Angel (ages 15 and up), 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Fee.
JAKES BRANCH COUNTY PARK AND NATURE CENTER
1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood (732) 281-2750 or 1-877-OC PARKS Drop in and Discover (ages 3-5 years): Saturdays through 12-28, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM. Live Animal Talks: Sundays through 12-29, 1:30 PM. Free.
Discovery Nature Walks: Sundays til 12-29, 2:00 PM. Free.
10-24, 11-14: Fireside Storytelling and Craft Making (ages 3-5), 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Fee.
11-2: Awesome Autumn Fun (all ages), 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM.
11-3: Autumn Pressed Leaf Bookmarks (ages 14 and up), 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Fee.
10-19, 11-8: Family Nature and Animal Poses: Little Kids and Me Yoga (ages 3 and up), 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM. Fee.
10-20, 11-17, 12-15: Family Bird Walk (all ages), 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Free.
10-27: Sunday Down on the Farm Long Basket with Mary May (adults), 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. 11-1 - 11-3: Plein Air Weekend, 8:00 AM4:00 PM. Free.
11-2: Fall Mum Pinecones (ages 3 and up with adult), 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Fee.
11-9: Mushroom Walk (ages 12 and up), 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Free.
11-10: Lenape (ages 5 and up), 10:00 AM11:00 AM. Fee.
11-16, 12-14: Monthly Bird Walks (ages 9 and up), 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Free.
11-16, 12-14: Armchair Birding (ages 9 and up), 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Free.
10-28, 11-4, 11-25, 12-9, 12-23: Maker Mondays Kids Craft Drop In (ages 3-5), 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Free.
11-9: Night of the Stars with ASTRA, 6:00 PM8:00 PM. Free.
11-16: Fall Nature Theme Needle Felting (ages 16 and up), 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Fee.
11-17: The Three Lenni Lenape Sisters (ages 8-12), 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Fee.
11-19, 12-3: Tuesday Talks (ages 16 and up), 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Fee.
11-22: Burlap Owl Wreath (ages 14 and up), 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Fee.
11-23: Bone Identification for Beginners (ages 16 and up), 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Fee.
12-13 - 12-16: Lighting Up Nature Holiday Light Display, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Free.
OCEAN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
11-16: The Wonders of the Natural World (infant - age 8), 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Fee. 11-17: Turkey-astic Fun!, (ages 3 and up), 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Fee.
11-22 - 11-23: Cherokee Picnic Basket with Mary May (adults), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Fee.
1198 Bandon Road, Toms River 1-877-OC PARKS Tuesdays, 10-22 - 11-26: Meditation for Busy Women (adults, no class 11-5), 6:00 - 7:00 PM. Fee.
10-28: Decorative Trivet (adults), 1:00 - 3:00 PM. 11-7: Give Thanks Centerpiece (adults), 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM. Fee.
11-14: Acupressure for Anyone - Central Channel Release (adults), 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM. Fee.
11-18: Decorative Tray (adults), 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Fee.
11-20: Body Scrup and Respiratory Salve with Essential Oils (adults), 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Fee.
11-21: Frozen Felt Forest (adults), 6:30 PM8:30 PM. Fee.
12-12: Modern Christmas DIY (adults), 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM. Fee.
OCEAN COUNTY PARK
659 Ocean Avenue (Route 88), Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARKS or (732) 506-9090
10-25 - 10-26: Family Campout at the Beach Complex, 6:00 PM - 10:00 AM. Fee.
12-3, 12-6: Evergreen Holiday Wreaths (ages 10 and up), 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Fee.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
OCTOBER, continued from page 19
10-26: Bonfire and Storytelling in Barnegat Light
Join us for a relaxing evening of entertainment with storyteller Robin Moore. Watch the sun go down with beautiful Barnegat Lighthouse in the background. Bring a beach blanket and/or beach chair and remember to bring a stick and marshmallows to roast over the fire! Sponsored by Ocean County Parks, the Borough of Barnegat Light, and Friends of Barnegat Lighthouse.
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, Broadway, Barnegat Light, (609) 494-9196 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM www.barnegatlight.org www.oceancountyparks.org www.friendsofbarnegatlighthouse.org
10-26: Annual Bay Head Halloween Parade and Costume Contest
Pre-registration suggested. Line up on Mount Street and Lake Avenue. Costume Contest at Centennial Park after the parade. Registration begins 10:00 AM; Parade: 11:15 AM www.bayhead.org
10-26: 15th Annual Monster Dash 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/ Walk in Point Pleasant Beach
A fun, flat, fast run along the boardwalk and inlet! Wear and race in your costumes! Top finisher and costume prizes awarded. Post-race party at Jenkinson’s. Online registration. Chip Timing by Elite Racing Systems. Benefits the Point Pleasant First Aid and Emergency Squad. For more information: PtBeachFun@gmail.com or (732) 899-0146.
Jenkinson’s main pavilion, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 899-0146
9:30 AM: 1-mile Fun Run (from the Aquarium to the Inlet and back) 10:30 AM: 5K (starts and ends in front of Broadway Bar and Grill at the boardwalk) www.facebook.com/MonsterDashPointBeach
10-26: Brick Township’s Fall Fest at Windward Beach
Fall Fest will feature food trucks, games, hatchet throwing, rides, cornhole tournament, firepits, beer and wine, and more. The evening will close with fireworks. Free admission. Rain date: 10-27-24.
Windward Beach Park, 260 Princeton Avenue, Brick, (732) 262-1000 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM www.bricktownship.net
10-26: Trick or Trunk in Ocean Grove
This sponsored community event is hosted annually in the South Parking Area of the Jersey Shore Arts Center and is free and open to the public. This Halloween event features a free holiday inspired craft, Halloween display, and over twenty volunteer trunks for trick-ortreaters to visit.
Jersey Shore Arts Center, 66 South Main Street, Ocean Grove, (732) 502-0050 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM jerseyshoreartscenter.org
10-31: 85th Annual Toms River Halloween Parade
The second largest Halloween Parade in the world! Over 100,000 spectators. Thousands of participants and floats! Sponsored by the Toms River Fire Company #1. Rain date: 11-1-24. Main and Washington Streets, Toms River, (732) 349-0144
7:00 PM
www.tomsriverhalloween.com
NOVEMBER
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson
Six Flag’s annual holiday celebration returns as they deck the halls in a dazzling display of lights, sights, and sounds for the annual holiday extravaganza. It’s the most magical time of the year filled with enchanting experiences that create those special family fun outings again and again. The winter wonderland features a variety of delightful and interactive activities to help capture the holiday spirit complete with special entertainment, attractions, menus, and more. Visit website for operating days and times.
Six Flags Great Adventure, Route 537, Jackson, (732) 928-1821
www.sixflags.com/GreatAdventure
11-2: Beers on the Boards in Point Pleasant Beach
Price includes select, local craft beer from over thirty breweries, spiked seltzers, hard ciders, a free buffet, and live music. Sponsored by the Point Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce. Tickets can be purchased through the chamber’s website: $65. Martell’s Tiki Bar, 308 Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 899-2424
Two tasting sessions: 12:00 PM and 5:30 PM www.pointchamber.com
11-2: 8th Annual Striped Bass Bash in Manahawkin
All-boat tournament and family fish fry. All proceeds benefit The Maximilian Foundation, a non-profit focused on strengthening kids to prevent destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse.
Manahawkin Elks Lodge #2340, 520 Hilliard Boulevard, Manahawkin 1:00 PM www.themaximilianfoundation.org/fishingtournament
11-3: Holiday Gifts, Crafts, and Collectibles Faire in Toms River
Events at Ocean & Monmouth County Libraries
Online pre-registration is required for most programs in both counties. Visit their websites for registration information and additional events including arts and crafts, mindfulness and movements, groups for movies, books, writing, library support, and more. Unless otherwise noted, programs are open to all ages.
OCEAN COUNTY LIBRARY • www.theoceancountylibrary.org
LACEY BRANCH
10 East Lacey Road, Forked River (609) 693-8566
11-4: Greet and Meet the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
LONG BEACH ISLAND BRANCH
217 South Central Avenue, Surf City (609) 494-2480
10-26: The Roaring 1920s, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. 10-29: American Red Cross Blood Drive, 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS to make an appointment. November: Art Exhibit by Orlando Lobelo
11-2: As Time Goes By - A Tribute to Movie Songs with Phil Bruschi, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
11-5, 12-3: Blood Pressure Screenings, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
11-7, 12-5: LBI Poets Studio, 1:00 PM3:00 PM
11-9: Advice from a Professional Genealogist, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
POINT PLEASANT BOROUGH BRANCH
834 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant Borough, (732) 295-1555
11-7, 12-5: Open Mic Night, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
TOMS RIVER BRANCH
101 Washington Street, Toms River (732) 349-6200
10-21: A History of the Old Methodist Cemetery, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
10-22: Virtual Talk with Therapist/Best Selling Author Lori Gottlieb, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
10-26: 45 Years of Amityville - Cult Classic, Local Connections, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
11-7: Virtual Talk with Navajo Investigator Stanley Milford, Jr., 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
11-14: Virtual Talk with Best Selling Author Javier Zamora, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
11-20: Virtual Talk with Author Mona Susan Power, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
UPPER SHORES BRANCH
112 Jersey City Avenue, Lavallette (732) 793-3996
11-7: Live Piano - The Great American Standards with Gary Evans, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
11-9: Boots on the Ground - A Veteran’s Day
Author Visit with Robin Bartlett, 2:00 PM4:00 PM
11-13: Joel Zelnik and Tony Corrao Pay Tribute to Tony Bennett and Bill Evans, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
11-22: Managing Pre-Diabetes During the Holiday Season, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
MONMOUTH COUNTY LIBRARY • www.monmouthcountylib.org
EASTERN BRANCH
1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, (732) 683-8980
10-23: As Time Goes By - Poetry Readings with Evelyn Hampton and Flora Higgins, 2:00 PM3:00 PM
10-29: Vampires: History, Myth, and Film, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
11-14: Thanksgiving Table, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
11-18: The Holmdel Horn Antenna, 7:00 PM8:00 PM
HOLMDEL BRANCH
101 Crawfords Corner Road, Suite 2110 (Bell Works Complex), Holmdel (732) 946-4118
10-24: Holmdel Speaker Series - The USS Houston (CA-30)/POW Experience, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
11-20: Ragtime Concert - Fred Lehotay and the Ragtimers, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
12-16: Holiday Cookie Walk, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
MANALAPAN HEADQUARTERS BRANCH
125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan (732) 431-7220
11-21: Virtual Presentation: The Pilgrims and the Mayflower, 7:00 PM
11-22: 1964 - The Year in Review Concert with Jay Daniels, 2:00 PM Saturdays, 11-23 - 12-28: Virtual Holiday Recipe Series with Chef Rob, 3:00 PM. See website for on-demand access. 11-23: Autumn Sheet Pan Dinner; 11-30: Spiced Chocolate Pumpkin Bread; 12-7: Chocolate Dipped Winter Butter Cookies; 12-14: Ravioli with Spinach and Artichoke Sauce; 12-21: Eggnog Cookies with a Rum Eggnog Frosting; 12-28: Penne alla Vodka and Shrimp 11-26: Virtual Presentation: The Brew That Was True in the Ancient Middle East and Egypt, 6:30 PM
12-15: Tim McLoon and the Shirleys and The Atlantic Coast Band’s Holiday Concert, 2:00 PM 12-29: Almost New Year’s Even Concert with Sentimental Journey’s Big Band, 2:00 PM
MARLBORO BRANCH
1 Library Court, Marlboro, (732) 536-9406
The Ocean County Historical Society will be hosting a Holiday Gifts, Crafts and Collectibles Faire with over fifty vendor tables, historical and cultural displays, a model train exhibit, a snack bar, baked goods for sale, used book sale, and more! This event, sponsored in part by the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission, will feature an Ocean County History and Cultural Pavilion. Free admission. Toms River High School South, 55 Hyers Street, Toms River, (609) 339-9134 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
10-22: Virtual Author Talk with Lori Gottlieb, 2:00 PM
10-23: Haunted History of New Jersey with Historian Greg Caggiano, 6:30 PM 10-24: Meet Ben Franklin, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
10-29: Virtual Presentation: Originals of a Legend - The New Jersey Devil, 6:30 PM
11-7: Virtual Author Talk with Stanley Milford, Jr., 7:00 PM
11-8: The West African Kora (Harp) and its Music with performance by musician Sean Gaskell, 2:00 PM
11-14: Virtual Author Talk with Javier Zamora, 4:00 PM
11-17: New Orleans Gumbo with performance by Zydeco-a-Go-Go, 2:00 PM
11-20: Virtual Author Talk with Mona Susan Power, 7:00 PM
11-14: Show Me The Monet (When He Was Young) presented by Mike Norris, 1:00 PM2:00 PM
OCEAN TOWNSHIP BRANCH
701 Deal Road, Ocean, (732) 531-5092
11-20: Charlie’s Band with Sandy SassoAn Afternoon Musical Interlude, 2:00 PM3:00 PM
WALL TOWNSHIP BRANCH
2700 Allaire Road, Wall, (732) 449-8877
10-21: NJ History Alive - Uncovering Historical Myths, 2:00 PM
10-25: Rhythm N’Sound Concert, 2:00 PM
11-16: Manasquan River Group of Artists Reception, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
12-3: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Celebration of Christmas Songs and Concert with Phil Bruschi, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
NOVEMBER, continued from page 21
11-3: Fall Festival in Barnegat
Food trucks, live music, vendors, activities for children, beer tasting, and more. Proceeds benefit the Alex Hoffman Memorial Fund for Barnegat Students. Fee. Across from the firehouse, 14 Birdsall Street, Barnegat 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM www.barnegat.net
11-8: Tour of ShoreTown Ballpark in Lakewood Home of the Jersey Shore Blue Claws, ShoreTown Ballpark first opened its gates in 2001. This state-of-the-art facility features 6,588 reserved seats, sixteen luxury suites, two party decks, two picnic areas, and an 1,859 square-foot video scoreboard. The tour includes the BlueClaws dugout, locker room, and the team’s batting cages. The BlueClaws are a minor-league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Meet under the Tower by the ticket booth. Free. Sponsored by Ocean County Parks; advance registration required. ShoreTown Ballpark, New Hampshire and Cedar Bridge Avenues, Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARKS
11:00 AM and 12:00 PM www.oceancountyparks.org
11-9: 46th Annual St. Peter School Craft Festival in Point Pleasant Beach
This popular, indoor craft show features a variety of artists, crafters, raffles, 50/50 prizes, music, kids’ activities, Santa, and more! Over fifty unique participants with local artisan and handmade goods. Food will be available for purchase in a designated outdoor area. Lots of fun and free admission.
St. Peter School, 415 Atlantic Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 892-1260
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM www.stpschool.org
11-9: Thank You
Veterans Car and Truck Show in Barnegat Music, food trucks, entertainment, and more. Sponsored by the Sentimental Cruisers and Barnegat Recreation. Rain date: 11-10-24. Veterans Park, 489 Forst Hills Parkway, Barnegat, (609) 971-6351
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM www.sentimentalcruisers.net
11-10: OCHS Speaker Series in Toms River: New Jersey and World War I
The Ocean County Historical Society commemorates Veteran’s Day with a presentation by Dr. Jeffrey Schenker entitled “New Jersey and World War I.” This program will explain the events that led to the Great War and will go into detail about New Jersey’s contributions to the war effort both militarily and economically. Schenker taught history for many years at Toms River High School South and is currently an adjunct professor of history at Ocean County College. He is also the president of the Ocean County Historical Society. In-person, free, limited seating. To reserve your seat, send your name, email address, zip code, and the date of the program to: oceancountyhistory. programs@gmail.com.
Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River, (732) 341-1880 2:00 PM www.oceancountyhistory.org/events
11-14: Ladies Night Out in Manasquan Main Street and the business district, Manasquan, (732) 223-8303 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM www.manasquanchamber.org
11-15, 12-20: Ladies Night in Lavallette
Participating businesses, Lavallette, (844) Enjoy-LAVA 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM www.enjoylavallette.com
11-16: Asbury Park Thanks-4-Giving Turkey Dash 5K And Turkey Splash Plunge Dash like a turkey and run on the boardwalk through scenic Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, and Bradley Beach…or ready to go Cold Turkey? Take a chilly dip in the Atlantic Ocean while benefitting the 25,000 athletes that Special Olympics New Jersey serves. Grand Arcade on the Boardwalk, Asbury Park, (609) 896-8000
Check-in: 10:30 AM. 5K: 11:30 PM. Plunge: 1:00 PM. Post-Plunge Bash: 1:30 PM at Wonder Bar. www.thx4giving.org
11-23: Annual Manasquan Turkey Run
All participants receive a long sleeve, mock turtleneck t-shirt.
Manasquan Little League Baseball Field, 69 Second Avenue, Manasquan 10:00 AM www.runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Manasquan/ ManasquanTurkeyTrot
11-30: Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair in Toms River
First two hundred shoppers will receive a free shopping tote with their purchase. Sponsored by The American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 129. 2025 Church Road, Toms River, (732) 272-6552 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM www.alpost129.org
11-30: Santa’s Viking
Christmas Village in Barnegat Light
Over forty crafters and artisans with music and merriment. Santa arrives by fire truck at 1:00 PM and will be available for pictures and visits. Bring your camera.
Historic Viking Village, 19th Street and Bayview Avenue, Barnegat Light, (609) 361-7008
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM www.vikingvillage.net www.vikingvillageshows.com
DECEMBER
Breakfasts and Brunches with Santa and Free Horse & Carriage Rides in Point Pleasant Beach! Throughout December, the Point Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce sponsors many festive holiday events including Breakfasts and Brunches with Santa and free Horse & Carriage Rides on Arnold and Bay Avenues all month long! Dates and times t.b.a. Call or check the chamber website for detailed information. 1-888-772-3862 www.pointchamber.com
12-1: 242nd Anniversary of the Skirmish at Cedar Bridge in Barnegat
Experience the story of skirmish between John Bacon and local militia at Cedar Bridge Tavern with a re-enactment of the last documented land engagement of the Revolutionary War. A tour of the newly refurbished Cedar Bridge Tavern will also be available. Sponsored by Ocean County Parks and the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission. Snow date: 1-5-25.
Cedar Bridge Tavern, 200 Old Halfway Road, Barnegat, (732) 929-4779
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Skirmishes at 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM. www.oceancountyparks.org
12-1, 12-15: Holiday Market in Asbury Park
A curated collection of twenty-five local artisans coming together for a holiday celebration. Porta, 911 Kingsley Street, Asbury Park 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM www.asburyfresh.com
12-5: Holiday Shopping Soiree in Spring Lake
Presented by the Spring Lake Chamber of Commerce, (732) 449-0577 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM www.springlake.org
12-6 - 12-7: 43rd Annual Christmas Walk in Bay Head
Two days of holiday festivities sponsored by the Bay Head Business Association. For more information: (732) 475-6813.
Friday, 12-6: Candlelit streets and festivities at Bay Head businesses, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Christmas tree lighting, pictures with Santa, musical performances, bell choirs, holiday brass band, Candy Cane Express, hot cocoa, light bites, and open house at the shops. Step back in time and enjoy a ‘Hallmark-like’ night. Everyone is welcome.
Saturday, 12-7: Santa’s Workshop with crafts for children at the Bay Head Firehouse, 10:00 AM. Trolley rides, shopping, and dining around town. Visit the Historical Society Museum for the annual Victorian Christmas Open House. Enjoy the Scavenger Hunt throughout Bay Head. Everyone is welcome. www.bayhead.org
12-7: Point Pleasant Boro High School Band Boosters 49th Annual Holiday Craft Show and Gift Auction
Crafters, food, music, gift auction, 50/50 raffle.
Memorial Middle School, Laura Herbert Drive, Point Pleasant, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM www.pointpleasantborobandboosters.org
12-7: Ocean Grove Holiday House Tour
Visit website for more information. Sponsored by the Ocean Grove Area Chamber of Commerce. Ocean Grove, (732) 774-1391 www.oceangrovenj.com
12-7: Farm and Crafter Holiday Pop-Up Market in Barnegat Vendors and holiday entertainment. Fred Watts Gazebo Park, 352 North Main Street, Barnegat
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM www.barnegat.net
12-7: 45th Annual Christmas Parade in Ship Bottom On Long Beach Boulevard from 5th to 25th Streets, (609) 494-2171 1:00 PM www.shipbottom.org
12-7: Celebrate the Season in Beach Haven Carols, kids’ elves workshop, fire pit with smores, and more.
Long Beach Island Historical Association Museum, Engleside and Beach Avenues, Beach Haven, (609) 709-1425
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM; Meet Santa 1:00 PM3:00 PM www.lbihistoricalmuseum.org
12-7 - 12-8: Hometown Christmas Weekend in Lavallette
Throughout the Lavallette Business District. See website for hours and additional details. Participating Businesses, Lavallette, (844) Enjoy-LAVA www.enjoylavallette.com
12-14: SantaCon in Seaside Heights
A non-denominational, non-commercial, non-political, and non-sensical Santa Claus convention that occurs for absolutely no reason other than spreading holiday cheer in the most magical and absurd way possible. Hooks, 1320 Boulevard, Seaside Heights 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM www.santaconshnj.com
12-15: OCHS Speaker Series in Toms River: The Army’s House of Magic: A History of Fort Monmouth, NJ
The Ocean County Historical Society presents an informative talk about the history of Fort Monmouth by Monmouth University Professor Melissa Ziobro, the last Command Historian at Fort Monmouth prior to the base’s closure in 2011 and author of “Fort Monmouth: The Army’s House of Magic,” published in 2024. To reserve your seat, send your name, email address, zip code, and the date of the program to oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com. Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River, (732) 341-1880 2:00 PM www.oceancountyhistory.org/events
12-31: First Night Ocean County in Seaside Heights
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with fun and games for the entire family! Fireworks at 5:00 PM. Wristbands available December 1. Lucky Leo’s Coin Castle, Casino Arcade, and Shake Shoppe at the Seaside Heights Boardwalk, 1-800-732-7467
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM www.exit82.com u
Christmas Tree Lightings
11-29: Barnegat Light
Tree lighting, Santa greeting, and caroling. Coast Guard Boat Ramp, 10th Street, Barnegat Light, (609) 494-9196
6:30 PM
www.barnegatlight.org
11-29: Point Pleasant Beach
Tree lighting at 5:45 PM and Santa’s arrival by fire truck at 6:00 PM. Live music and refreshments, take-your-own pictures with Santa, free fire truck rides, horse and carriage rides, games, clowns, karaoke, bicycle drawing, and lots more! A festive night of family fun. Rain date: 11-30-24.
Arnold and Bay Avenues, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 899-2424
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
www.pointpleasantbeachchamber.com
11-30: Asbury Park
On the boardwalk in the Grand Arcade, Asbury Park, (732) 775-7676
5:00 PM
www.asburyparkchamber.com
11-30: Keyport
At Keyport Waterfront Park, American Legion Drive, Keyport, (732) 739-5138
5:00 PM
11-30: Red Bank
Holiday Express concert and town lighting. Broad and Monmouth Streets, Red Bank, (732) 842-4244
7:00 PM www.redbank.org www.visitredbank.com
11-30: Ship Bottom
Municipal Boat Ramp, 10th and Shore Avenue, Ship Bottom, (609) 494-2171
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM www.shipbottom.org
12-4 Freehold
Compiled from and various local, county, and municipal websites.
12-6: Manasquan
Christmas tree lighting and candy cane hunt. Rain date: 12-13-24. Squan Plaza, Abe Voorhees Drive, Main Street, and the Business District, Manasquan, (732) 223-0544
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM www.manasquanchamber.org
12-6: Toms River
Library and Town Hall Courtyard, Washington Street, Toms River, (732) 341-8738
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM www.downtowntomsriver.com
12-7: Asbury Park
At town hall, Asbury Park, (732) 775-7676 5:30 PM www.asburyparkchamber.com
12-7: Barnegat
Music, cider, and more! Rain date: 12-4-24. Hall of Records, 1 East Main Street, Freehold, (732) 333-0094
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM www.downtownfreehold.com
12-6: Atlantic Highlands Boro Hall, 100 First Avenue, Atlantic Highlands, (732) 291-1444 6:00 PM www.ahnj.com
12-6 - 12-7: Bay Head
43rd Annual Bay Head Christmas Walk - two days of festivities throughout town. Please refer to the event listing on page 22 for more information. Throughout town, Bay Head, (732) 892-0223 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM www.bayhead.org
Fred Watts Gazebo Park, 352 N. Main Street, Barnegat 4:30 PM www.barnegat.net
12-7: Beach Haven
Indoor program at Long Beach Island Historical Association Museum, 129 Engleside Avenue; tree lighting at Veterans Memorial Park, 100 Engleside Avenue, Beach Haven, (609) 709-1425 Program: 7:00 PM; Tree lighting: 7:30 PM www.beachhavencap.org/event/ christmas-tree-lighting www.lbihistoricalmuseum.org
12-7: Lavallette
Tree lighting and festivities. 1306 Grand Central Avenue, Lavallette, (844) 365-6592 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM www.enjoylavallette.com
12-7: Seaside Heights Outside the Carousel Pavilion on the Boardwalk 5:00 PM
12-30: Freehold Hall of Records, 1 East Main Street, Freehold, (732) 333-0094 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM www.downtownfreehold.com
For many families, cutting their own Christmas tree is a tradition that becomes one of their fondest memories of the holiday season. However, the Choose & Cut Your Own farms are slowly disappearing in recent years, so enjoy this tradition or make it a new one while you can!
Listed are farms in Monmouth and Ocean Counties where families can choose and cut their own tree—or purchase one freshly cut by the workers on the farm. No axes or chain saws are permitted. Customers can either bring their own saw or the farm will provide one. Please call ahead to make sure trees are still available and to ask questions that will help make your visit more enjoyable.
Monmouth County
ANNE ELLEN CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
114 Daum Road
Manalapan Township, (732) 786-9277
www.anneellenfarms.com
2,500 trees. Species: Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, White Pine, Douglas Fir, and Fraser Fir. Trees cut by grower for retail at farm. Customer saws provided and allowed. Drilling for pin type stands. Decorations, ornaments, stands, grave blankets, Christmas shop, meals, Christmas Village. Tree farm open Sat. and Sun. Oct. 1 - Nov. 9, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; open daily Nov. 9 - Dec. 30, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM. (Cut your own fields close at 4:00 PM.) Village open Wed. - Sun. Nov. 9 - Dec. 30, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM; advance online ticket purchase for village entrance; reservations not necessary to visit tree farm or shops.
BULLOCK FARMS
83 Emleys Hill Road, Cream Ridge (609) 758-872
www.bullockfarms.com
250 trees. Species: Norway Spruce, White Pine, and Douglas Fir. Customer saws provided and allowed. Decorations, ornaments, stands, grave blankets, Christmas shop, drilling for pin type stands. Check website or call for 2024 opening and closing dates. Hours: Fri. - Sun. 9:00 AM5:00 PM.
COLLIGAN FARM
1092 Lakewood/Farmingdale Road (Route 547), Howell, (732) 546-5881
THE FIR FARM
166 Hillsdale Road, Colts Neck www.thefirfarm.com
The Fir Farm has been a Christmas Tree farm for over forty years and also grows hops and harvest honey from their beehives. Blue Spruce, Colorado Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, and other varieties. Open the Sat. after Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve, Fri. - Sun. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
LINCROFT CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
523 Newman Springs Road (Route 520), Lincroft, (732) 747-4381
200 trees. Species: Norway Spruce, White Pine, Concolor Fir, and Canaan Fir. Balled trees available. Customer saws provided. Open daily Dec. 1 - 24, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
CONOVER’S FARM
3105 Hurley Pond Road, Wall (732) 938-3782
www.conoversfarm.com
3,000 trees between five and twelve feet tall in a variety of shapes (traditional, fat, skinny, dense, or open). Species: Douglas Fir, Norway Spruce, Scotch Pine, White Pine, Serbian Spruce, Con Color Fir, Blue Spruce, and Fraser Fir. All trees are priced based on height. Reserve your tree seven days a week starting on the first Sat. in Nov. 8:00 AM to dusk and Wed. - Fri. 12:00 PM to dusk. Purchase your tree starting the first Sat. after Thanksgiving. Fri. 12:00 PM to dusk; Sat. and Sun. 8:00 AM to dusk. Reservations honored until Dec. 19 at 4:30 PM.
700 trees. Species: Blue Spruce, White Pine, Douglas Fir, Concolor Fir, and Fraser Fir. Trees cut by grower for retail at farm. Tagging permitted. Customer saws provided and allowed. Decorations, ornaments, stands, Christmas shop. Open the Fri. after Thanksgiving to Dec. 23, Mon. - Fri. 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sat. and Sun. 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
PATTERSON GREENHOUSES & FARM
636 Adelphia Road, Freehold (732) 431-5271
www.pattersongreenhouses.com
1,000 trees. Species: Colorado Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, and Norway Spruce. Tagging permitted. Wreaths, boughs, garlands, decorations. Tree shaking and free tree trimmings provided. Open the Fri. after Thanksgiving to Dec. 23, Mon. - Sat. 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM; Sun. 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
TOWERING PINES FARM
329 Wilson Avenue, Aberdeen (732) 583-6436
WORTH/EVERGREEN LANE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
4409 Belmar Boulevard, Wall (732) 319-4478
www.worthfarming.com
Choose and cut Christmas trees, garlands, wreaths, decorations, and more. Species: Balsam Fir, Blue Spruce, Canaan Fir, Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine, White Pine, and White Spruce. Open weekends 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Call for weekday hours.
Ocean County
200 trees. Species: Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, White Spruce, Douglas Fir, and Scotch Pine. Balled trees and firewood available. Customer saws provided. Wreaths, garlands, grave blankets. Open Dec. 7 - 22, Sat. and Sun. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
WOODFIELD CHRISTMAS TREE PLANTATION
310 Route 537, Colts Neck (732) 542-7672
500 trees. Species: Norway Spruce, White Pine, Douglas Fir, and Fraser Fir. Customers can cut their own tree, or someone will cut it for them. Boxwood kissing balls, custom centerpieces, decorations, ornaments, hot complimentary cocoa and coffee in shop. Tree tagging for 2024 will only be available on the weekend before Thanksgiving, Nov. 23 and 24, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (weather permitting).
OLD SILO FARM
139 Brynmore Road, New Egypt (908) 839-2214
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id= 100085211928443
250 trees. Species: Douglas Fir, Concolor Fir, Fraser Fir, and Cannan Fir. Customer saws provided. Open last weekend in Nov. to Dec. 23, Sat. and Sun. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
PICEA ACRES
50 South New Prospect Road Jackson, (732) 370-8733 www.piceaacres.com
200 trees. Species: Norway Spruce, White Spruce, White Pine, and Douglas Fir. Customer saws provided. Decorations, ornaments, stands, grave blankets. Open the Fri. after Thanksgiving to when sold out, Mon. - Fri. 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sat. and Sun. 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
YULETIDE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
138 Evergreen Road, New Egypt (732) 349-2705
www.yuletidefarmnj.com
1,500 trees. Species: Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, White Pine, and Douglas Fir. Customer saws provided. Open daily the Sat. after Thanksgiving to Dec. 23, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Information compiled from the New Jersey Christmas Tree Growers’Association (www.njchristmastrees.org), the National Christmas Tree Association (www.christmastree.org), www.pickyourownchristmastree.org, and www.findjerseyfresh.com.
THEATER & CONCERTS
Monmouth and Ocean Counties
Although every effort was made to provide accurate information, please call or check the website before attending.
October - December 2024
ALBERT MUSIC HALL
131 Wells Mill Road (Route 532), Waretown (609) 971-1593
www.alberthall.org
Since 1974, every Saturday night the hall comes alive with the sound of Pinelands, Bluegrass, Country, Old Timey, Americana, and Folk music welcoming five or six bands throughout the evening. Immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of the region and tap your feet to lively tunes in a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere. Snacks and gifts available. 50/50 drawing. Admission: $6.; children under 12: $1. See website for dates and times of special events.
Saturday nights: doors open 5:30 PM; music 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
11-2: Jersey Devil Show
11-9: Veterans Show
11-16: Homeplace Show
12-7: Bluegrass Christmas
12-14: Singin’ Santa Show
ALGONQUIN ARTS THEATRE
173 Main Street, Manasquan (732) 528-9211
www.algonquinarts.org
Algonquin Arts was founded in 1992 to provide cultural enrichment for the residents and visitors of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Their programming includes dramatic and musical theatre, dance, musical concerts, film, and mixed media presentations. These presentations are offered to the public in the setting of the 540-seat Algonquin Arts Theatre, which reopened to the public in 1994 following an extensive renovation. Algonquin Arts also enhances the educational experiences of area students with diverse performances and artist-lead educational workshops. Call the box office or check the website for more information.
10-26: Kenny & Dolly - Real Love Tribute Show (Concert Series), 2:00 PM
10-27: Good Stuff - A Tribute to Steely Dan (Concert Series), 3:00 PM
11-2: Uncle Vinnie’s presents Vic DiBitetto (Comedy), 6:00 PM
11-3: The Great American Songbook with Father Alphonse’s Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea (Orchestra Series), 3:00 PM
11-9: Theatre Rock Live (Concert Series), 2:00 PM
11-10: Perfectly Frank - Frank Sinatra’s Radio “Symphonette” of the 1950s (Jazz Series), 3:00 PM
11-15: Uncle Vinnie’s presents Joe Avati (Comedy), 8:00 PM
11-24: A Carole King Christmas (Concert Series), 3:00 PM
12-7 - 12-21: Irving Berlin’s White Christmas - The Musical (Broadway Series), various days and times
12-31: Tusk - Tribute to Fleetwood Mac (Concert Series), 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM
ASBURY LANES
209 4th Avenue, Asbury Park (732) 361-6659
www.asburylanes.com
Asbury Lanes is a vintage bowling alley and bar with live performances including local talent with rock and hip-hop veterans, indie, and pop stars. Advance ticket purchase recommended. Check website for updated schedule and times.
10-31: Cosmic Jerry Band, 7:30 PM
11-2: Allie X, 8:00 PM
11-8: Broadway Rave, 9:00 PM
11-15: Dexter and The Moonrocks, 8:00 PM
11-16: Microwave with special guests Prince Daddy and The Hyena, Just Friends, and Ben Quad, 6:00 PM
11-17: Redferrin, 7:00 PM
11-20: Tropidelic with Kash’d Out, 7:30 PM
12-7: Sean Patrick and The Alibis, 7:00 PM
BELL THEATER AT HISTORIC BELLWORKS
101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel Box Office: (732) 531-9106 ext. 14 (open one hour before events) www.belltheater.org
Bell Theater is a new cultural hub that opened in Spring 2024 at the historic Bell Works. Their mission is to provide exceptional cultural programming to the community in a state-of-the-art facility. Every detail from the stage to the seating has been carefully designed to create a comfortable and immersive environment. Bell Theater strives to offer an array of diverse cultural programming that includes professional theater, dance, concerts, film, comedy, and more.
10-26: Gabrielle Stravelli and Billy Stritch - Mel and Ella Swing!, 7:00 PM
11-9: Seth Rudetsky’s Big Fat Broadway Life featuring J. Harrison Ghee, 8:00 PM
11-15: Matt O’Ree Band Does Led Zeppelin, 7:00 PM
11-16: Hallelujah - The Songs of Leonard Cohen, 8:00 PM
12-7: Seth Rudetsky’s Big Fat Broadway Life featuring Krysta Rodriguez, 8:00 PM
BROOKDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
761 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft (732) 224-2411
www.brookdalecc.edu/pac
This 361-seat, thirty-year-old theater is home to everything from dramas and concerts to musical theater. Although the shows are performed mainly during the school year, they also have Summer Shakespeare in July. Show times vary but are typically on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM and Sundays at 2:00 PM. Many shows are free. Ticket prices vary and can run from $12. to $24.
10-11 - 10-27: Haunted Theater 2024 - Out of Time, various days and time
11-16: A Night with Billy VanZandt, 7:00 PM
12-5 - 12-8: Digging the Whole, various times
12-14: The Most Wonderful Crime of the YearMurder Mystery Dessert Theater, 8:00 PM
THE COUNT BASIE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank (732) 842-9000
www.thebasie.org
Founded in 1926, this 1,400-seat theater is known for first class entertainment in an intimate setting. The Center’s mission is to inspire, educate, and entertain through distinct and engaging cultural and artistic offerings that reflect the diversity of the region. Family shows, musical plays, comedians, and famous political commentators have all appeared here. The Basie’s vision for the future is to evolve into a world-class center for arts education, culture, and the performing arts. This evolution includes an industrious expansion, potentially doubling the number of its performance, educational, and cultural offerings, while reaching a wider sector of the community through new partnerships and programs. The Vogel, a state-of-the-art performance venue, was unveiled in October 2020.
EVENTS AT THE HACKENSACK MERIDIAN
HEALTH THEATRE AT THE BASIE:
10-25: Jessica Kirson, 7:30 PM
10-26: Remember Jones - Bat Out of Hell Live, 8:00 PM
10-27: Disney Jr. Live on Tour - Let’s Play, 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM
10-29: Gipsy Kings featuring Nicolas Reyes, 7:30 PM
10-30: The Capitol Fools, 7:30 PM
11-1: Sugar Skull! A Dia de Muertos Musical Adventure, 7:00 PM
11-2: Zian Conducts Scheherazade, 8:00 PM
11-3: Nick Carter, 7:00 PM
11-4: Life Is A Carnival, 7:30 PM
11-6: Theory of a Deadman - Unplugged, 7:30 PM
11-7: Samara Joy, 8:00 PM
11-8: Smokey Robinson, 8:00 PM
11-9: Cold Case - Live, 7:30 PM
11-15 - 11-17: Phoenix Productions presents The Color Purple - The Musical, various times 11-19 - 11-24: Elf the Musical, various times
11-25: Steve-O, 7:30 PM
11-26: Dan and Phil - Terrible Influence, 8:00 PM
11-29: Matteo Bocelli, 8:00 PM
11-30: Air Supply, 7:30 PM
12-1: Sesame Street Live, 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM
12-3: Indigo Girls, 7:30 PM
12-4: Fairytale of New York, 7:30 PM
12-5: A Johnny Mathis Christmas, 7:30 PM
12-6: The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert, 7:30 PM
12-7: Holiday Doo Wop, 7:00 PM
12-8: Bored Teachers Comedy Tour, 3:00 PM
12-9: Trevor Wallace and Michael Blaustein present Stiff Socks Live, 8:00 PM
12-13 - 12-15: Company of Dance Arts presents The Nutcracker, various times
12-17: Holiday Express, 7:30 PM
12-19: Mark Tremonti Sings Frank Sinatra, 7:30 PM
12-20: Darlene Love, 7:30 PM
12-22: Monmouth Civic Chorus - Making Spirits Bright, 4:00 PM
12-27: Sal Vulcano, 7:00 PM
12-31: Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes, 6:00 PM
EVENTS AT THE VOGEL AT THE BASIE: 10-25, 10-26: Phoenix Productions presents Bat Boy - The Musical, various times
10-27: O-Town with LFO, 7:00 PM
10-30: Jimmy Webb, 7:30 PM
11-1: Sonja Morgan, 7:30 PM
11-2: Duel of the Decades - 80s vs. 90s, 8:00 PM
11-3: Brunch at the Vogel - Tracy Nelson of Mother Earth, 11:00 AM
11-3: Total Mass Retain - YES Experience, 7:00 PM
11-7: The Linda Ronstadt Experience, 7:30 PM
continued on page 26
The Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank. courtesy of the Count Basie Center for the Arts
CONCERTS continued from page 25
11-8: Kashmir featuring Jean Violet, The Spirit of Led Zeppelin, 8:00 PM
11-9: Celebrating Three American Troubadours, 8:00 PM
11-10: Drag Brunch at The Vogel - Dragsgiving, 11:00 AM
11-11: Eric Gales, 7:30 PM
11-12: Nadia Munno - The Pasta Queen Live, 7:00 PM
11-13: Jesse Cook, 7:30 PM
11-14: Nicole Henry - I Wanna Dance With Somebody, 7:30 PM
11-15: Rael - The Music of Genesis, 8:00 PM
11-16: The Eras Party - A Taylor Swift Inspired Dance Party, 8:00 PM
11-17: The Rock and Roll Playhouse - Dave Matthews Band for Kids, 12:00 PM
12-6: Chris Knight, 8:00 PM
12-7: David Benoit Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown, 7:30 PM
12-8: Sister’s Christmas Catechism, 3:00 PM
12-9: A Christmas Carol performed by Gerald Charles Dickens, 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM
12-11: Josh Wolf, 7:00 PM
12-12: Donna the Buffalo, 8:00 PM
12-14: Chris Pinella - Christmas in Red Bank, 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
12-15: Sal Valentinetti - Christmas Comes to Town, 2:00 PM and 6:30 PM
12-19: Liza Treyger, 7:00 PM
12-21: The Rock and Roll Playhouse - Emo for Kids, 12:00 PM
12-21: The Sensational Soul Cruisers, 7:00 PM
12-27: Frontiers - The World’s Number One Tribute to Journey, 7:30 PM
HOUSE OF INDEPENDENTS
572 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park www.houseofindependents.com
Asbury Park’s House of Independents is back hosting an eclectic mix of music, theatre, dance, film, comedy, oddities, and late night fare. The recently renovated facility supports a wide spectrum of uses with convertible attributes including a retractable seating system and movable stages. Stadium-style seats can be implemented for theatre productions, movie premieres, and conferences or they can be hidden away to open the floor space for concerts, weddings, and fundraisers.
10-27: Chris Webby, 7:00 PM
10-31: Witch Perfect, 7:00 PM
11-1: Tilian, 6:30 PM
11-2 and 11-3: Will Wood Halloween Party (sold out both nights), 6:00 PM
11-6: Robbie the Used with Bert McCracken, 7:00 PM
11-7: Games We Play, 7:00 PM
11-9: Fall Frequencies, 7:00 PM
11-15: Selena - Still Dreaming of You 30 Years Later, 7:00 PM
11-16: Bearings and Broadside, 5:00 PM
11-22: Anime Nexus Rave, 9:00 PM
12-7: Linkin Park Night - The Greatest Hits, 8:00 PM
JERSEY SHORE ARTS CENTER
66 South Main Street, Ocean Grove (732) 502-0050
www.jerseyshoreartscenter.org
Housed in the historic Neptune High School building (constructed in 1896), the Jersey Shore Arts Center supports local artists and arts educators and provides affordable workspace to artists, educators, and groups who develop opportunities for the community to experience and engage in the arts. The building is maintained by the Ocean Grove Historic Preservation Society and serves as a home for the cultural arts and a venue for events, dramatic and musical productions, as well as instruction in the arts, dance, music, theater, pottery, and ceramics. Commercial and nonprofit groups, as well as individuals, can rent studio space, classrooms, two dance studios, a ballroom studio, a magnificent 400-seat theater with dressing rooms and box office, a café space with two additional studios and food service capabilities, and a 75-seat theater. Check their website for up-to-date events, programming, and performance schedules as well as rental information.
Wednesday Nights: Café Artiste featuring live original music, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday Nights: ComedySportz Jersey Shore featuring live improv comedy, 7:30 PM
11-16: Split Level Concerts - Brian Dunne, 8:00 PM
12-21: Split Level Concerts - Griffin House, 8:00 PM
LIZZIE ROSE MUSIC ROOM
217 East Main Street, Tuckerton (609) 389-0118
www.lizzierosemusic.com
The Lizzie Rose Music Room is a “Listening Room,” not a bar or restaurant, established in 2014 to bring live music to Tuckerton including Blues, Jazz, Bluegrass, Country, Rock, Soul, Singer/Songwriters, and more.
10-25: JC Cole - Johnny Cash Tribute Show, 7:30 PM
10-26: Blues People, 7:30 PM
11-1: Singer/Songwriter Evening in the Round, 7:30 PM
11-2: Stanley Jordan, 7:30 PM
11-3: Coyote Jack Band, 7:30 PM
11-6: Richard Shindell, 7:30 PM
11-9: Live at the Fillmore Allman Brothers Tribute, 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM
11-10: Barbara Lin Band, 7:30 PM
11-15: Imagine Lennon Live, 7:30 PM
11-16: Jax Hollow, 7:30 PM
11-17: Mustard’s Retreat, 7:30 PM
11-21: Marshall Crenshaw (sold out), 7:30 PM
11-22: Shemekia Copeland (sold out), 7:30 PM
11-23: Wooden Ships Band - A Tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, 7:30 PM
11-24: Ghost Town Blues Band, 7:30 PM
11-30: Bell Bottom Blues - A Tribute to Eric Clapton, 7:30 PM
12-6: The Jenny Barnes Band, 7:30 PM
12-7: Damn the Torpedoes - The Music of Tom Petty, 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM
12-13: Eldorado Slim, 7:30 PM
12-14: Rock This Town Christmas Spectacular - A Tribute to Brian Setzer Orchestra, 7:30 PM
12-20: Albert Castiglia, 7:30 PM
12-21: Floyd Pink - A Tribute to Pink Floyd, 7:30 PM
12-27, 12-28: Steve Forbert, 7:30 PM
12-29: Popa Chubby, 7:30 PM
MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY
400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch Box Office: (732) 263-6889 www.monmouth.edu/arts
ADULT EDUCATION SERIES:
Fee-based events. Register online in advance.
11-7, 11-14: Podcasting for Beginners with Robert Rodriguez (virtual), 7:30 PM
12-5, 12-12: Bring in Da Funk Part II with Kit O’Toole (virtual), 7:30 PM
12-19: Christmas Time is Hear Again with Scott Freiman and Ken Womack (virtual), 7:30 PM
VISITING WRITERS:
Free events at The Great Hall Auditorium, register online in advance.
10-29: A Tribute to Jean Valentine - Panel Discussion featuring Alice Ostriker, Joan Larkin, Carey Salerno, and Anne Marie Macari
10-29: Poetry Readings with Q&A featuring Alicia Ostriker and Joan Larkin, 4:30 PM
TUESDAY NIGHT VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB: Free virtual events. Register online in advance.
11-12: Louise Erdich, The Night Watchman, 7:30 PM 12-10: Percival Everett, James, 7:30 PM
TUESDAY NIGHT RECORD CLUB:
It’s just like the book club but with albums! Free events in person in The Great Hall Auditorium and virtual. Register online in advance.
11-5: Bruce Springsteen, The Ghost of Tom Joad, 7:30 PM
12-3: Queen, A Night at the Opera, 7:30 PM
POLLAK THEATRE: This 700-seat theatre presents live music, theatre, and dance by national touring artists. The Pollak also screens HD broadcasts of the MET Opera, the National Theatre of London, and the Bolshoi Ballet, along with children’s theater and other programming presented by the Center for the Arts.
10-28: Munch - Love, Ghosts and Lady Vampires (Great Art on Screen), 7:30 PM
11-9: The Mind and Music of Leonard Bernstein with Dr. Richard Kogan (Performing Arts Series), 8:00 PM
11-21: Court (World Cinema Series), 6:05 PM
11-23: Tosca (The Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD), 1:00 PM
11-24: The Wailin’ Jennys (Performing Arts Series), 7:00 PM
12-2: Perugino - Eternal Renaissance (Great Art on Screen), 7:30 PM
12-6: Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea (Performing Arts Series), 7:00 PM
LAUREN K. WOODS THEATRE: This 140-seat theater is used mainly for school productions during the school year. These can range from concerts to musicals to plays.
10-30: Click Here (to Start Your Order): Performance and Talkback (ArtNOW: Performance, Art, and Technology), 4:30 PM
12-2: Brute Force (Adult Education Series, Words and Music), 4:30 PM
OCEAN COUNTY COLLEGE
JAY AND LINDA GRUNIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS
1 College Drive, Toms River, (732) 255-0500 www.grunincenter.org
The Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts, located on the campus of Ocean County College (OCC), is home to the OCC Theatre Company and the OCC Concert Band. Professional programs include Living Legends, Singer/Songwriters, Classical Music, Musical/Theatre, Country/Folk, Jazz, Dance, and Family. In addition, the Garden State Philharmonic is the orchestra-in-residence. Mid-Week Jazz Series
Jeffery Gaines performs at the Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton.
courtesy of the Lizzie Rose Music Room
concerts and School of Performing Arts productions take place all season long.
10-18 - 10-27: Madness, Murder and Mayhem, various days and times
10-26: One Night in Memphis, 8:00 PM
11-1: Tracy Nelson, 7:00 PM
11-2: Girls Night - The Musical, 7:30 PM
11-3: Late Night Catechism, 3:00 PM
11-6: Viet Thanh Nguyen, 11:00 AM
11-8: Ching-Yi Lin Afternoon Piano Recital, 2:00 PM
11-9: Martha Redbone Roots Project, 7:00 PM
11-10: Assisted Living - The Musical, 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM
12-4: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Wild and Swingin’ Holiday Party, 8:00 PM
12-7: Yates Musical Theatre for Children presents A Christmas Carol, 7:00 PM
12-7: OCC Concert Band - The Sounds of the Holidays, 7:00 PM
12-12 - 12-22: Broadway for the Holidays 4, various days and times
12-13: Hans Tashjian and Anna Keiserman, 2:00 PM
12-14: Ballet for Young Audiences - The Nutcracker, 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM
12-15: Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, 3:00 PM
12-20: Christmas with the Celts, 7:00 PM
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP ARTS CENTER STAFFORD TOWNSHIP EDUCATION FOUNDATION
1000 McKinley Avenue, Manahawkin (609) 489-8600
Tickets: https://staffordschools.tix.com www.staffordschools.org/STAC
The Stafford Township Arts Center (STAC) is south Jersey’s resource for artistic and cultural experiences. Live music, dance, and theatrical programs offer enrichment for people of every age. Programmed and managed by the Stafford Township Education Foundation, STAC features state-of-the-art amenities and plays host to the finest amateur and professional talent.
10-26: Fleetwood Macked, 7:30 PM
11-9: Sail On - Beach Boys Tribute, 7:30 PM
11-23: Foreign Journey, 7:30 PM
12-1: It’s a Shore Holiday, 3:00 PM
12-7: Forever Simon and Garfunkel - A Tribute, 7:30 PM
12-14: New York Tenors, 7:30 PM
STONE PONY AND STONE PONY SUMMER STAGE 913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park (732) 502-0060 www.stoneponyonline.com
The legendary Stone Pony has been a driving force of the Jersey Shore music scene since it first opened its doors in 1974. From independent, local talent to internationally known headline acts, music fans will never be disappointed with the Stone Pony’s schedule of events. During the summer, enjoy open-air concerts at the Stone Pony Summer Stage. Advance ticket purchase recommended for both venues.
STONE PONY:
11-2: Fantastic Cat, 7:00 PM
11-6: Sammy Rae and The Friends with Shallow Alcove, 7:00 PM
11-8: Houndmouth, 7:00 PM
11-15: Hank Azaria and The EZ Street Band, 7:00 P
11-16: Lou Gramm - The Voice of Foreigner (A Stone Pone 50th Anniversary Event), 7:00 PM
11-20: Yoke Lore with Runner, 7:00 PM
11-27: The Cliffs Thanksgiving Eve Holiday Show, 8:00 PM
11-30: The Parlor Mob, 7:00 PM
12-1: Four Year Strong with Free Throw, One Step Closer, Death Lens, 6:00 PM
12-5 and 12-6: Kip Moore with Hannah McFarland, 7:00 PM
12-7: Sinderella’s Ball with Moroccan Sheepherders, Strumberry Pie Trio and More, 7:00 PM
12-13: Joe P, 7:00 PM
12-20: Low Cut Connie, 7:00 PM
THE STRAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS
400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood (732) 367-7789
www.strand.org
Built in 1919, The Strand is known as one of the best acoustical theatres in the nation. This fully restored theatre features a variety of musical, dramatic, and comedic events by some of the country’s top performers, as well as the Garden State Philharmonic and fine ballet.
10-25: Thurston Howell - A Premier Yacht Rock Spectacular, 8:00 PM
10-26: The Wag’s Halloween Spectacular, 7:00 PM
11-8: Legion of Prog - A Celebration of 70s and 80s Progressive Rock, 8:00 PM
11-9: Meet Loaf - The Ultimate Tribute to Meat Loaf, 8:00 PM
11-16: A Golden Oldies Extravaganza, 8:00 PM
11-22: The Rush Experience, 8:00 PM
12-6: A Medium Gallery Show with Linda Shields, The Jersey Shore Medium, 7:00 PM
12-7: The Machine performs Pink Floyd, 8:00 PM
12-14: The Wag’s Christmas Spectacular, 7:00 PM
12-21: Atlantic City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, 7:00 PM
SURFLIGHT THEATRE
Engleside and Beach Avenues
Beach Haven, (609) 492-9477
www.surflight.org
Producing large-scale musicals and plays with a resident company of professional actors, the Surflight has been performing live theater in a classic summer stock situation since 1950. In addition, Surflight offers Children’s Theater from mid-June through September and a Celebrity Concert series. Please call or visit the website for shows, times, prices, and group pricing.
MUSICALS AND PLAYS:
11-16: Tosca, presented by Center Stage Opera Co., 7:30 PM
11-30 - 12-15: Miracle on 34th Street, various days and times
COMEDY:
11-9: Comedy Night Fundraiser, 7:30 PM
CONCERTS:
12-21: Holidays with The Jersey Tenors, 4:00 PM and 7:30 PM
12-31: NYE Bubbly Bash with The Rave-Ons, 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM
THE WONDER BAR
1213 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park (732) 502-8886
www.wonderbarasburypark.com
The Wonder Bar features a lineup that will appeal to fans of all types of music. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the positive vibes at this iconic establishment. Advanced ticket purchase recommended.
10-26: Hi-Tide Halloween Double Feature with Black Flamingos, Primitive Finks, and more, 8:00 PM
10-30: Cloud Nothings, 7:00 PM
11-7: Mondo Cozmo with Jane Leo, 7:00 PM
11-8: Eddie Roberts and The Lucky Strokes, 7:00 PM
11-14: Nikki Costa, 7:00 PM
11-16: King Buffalo with Ben Katzman’s DeGreaser, 8:00 PM
11-19: JaRon Marshall, 7:00 PM
11-23: Marshal Crenshaw, 7:00 PM
ALSO OF INTEREST:
10-11 - 10-26: Jekyll and Hyde, various days and times
Spring Lake Theatre At The Spring Lake Community House, 300 Madison Avenue, Spring Lake, (732) 449-4530 www.springlaketheatre.com
10-12 - 10-26: A Streetcar Named Desire, various days and times
First Avenue Playhouse, 123 First Avenue, Atlantic Highlands, (732) 291-7552 www.firstavenueplayhouse.org
10-31 - 11-24: Your Name Means Dream, various days and times
Lumia Theatre, New Jersey Repertory Company, 179 Broadway, West Long Branch, (732) 229-3166 www.njrep.org
11-1 - 11-24: Fiddler on the Roof, various days and times
Axelrod Performing Arts Center, Vogel Auditorium, 100 Grant Avenue, Deal Park, (732) 531-9100 www.axelrodartscenter.com
11-4: Reading of Extremities by William Mastrosimone, 7:00 PM
Center Players, reading at the American Hotel, 16 E. Main Street, Freehold, (732) 462-9093 www.centerplayers.org
11-8, 11-9: Bernadette Peters in Concert, 8:00 PM Two River Theater Co., 21 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank, (732) 345-1400 www.tworivertheater.org
11-8 - 11-17: The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals, various times Aberdeen/Matawan Repertory Theatre, Spotlight Players, performances at First Presbyterian Church, Route 34 and Franklin Street, Matawan, (732) 583-7874 www.spotlightplayers.org
12-5 - 12-22: Scrooge, various days and times Spring Lake Theatre At The Spring Lake Community House, 300 Madison Avenue, Spring Lake, (732) 449-4530 www.springlaketheatre.com
12-7: Christmas Concert, 3:00 PM Ocean Grove Great Auditorium, 54 Pitman Avenue, Ocean Grove, (732) 775-0035; tickets: 800-590-4064 www.oceangrove.org u
The Stone Pony in Asbury Park celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
Luvemakphoto
Margaret Thomas Buchholz
The Jersey Shore’s Tiny Yet Mighty Paragon of Panache
by Jill Ocone
IImagine being so beloved by your hometown that they throw you a surprise party for your ninetieth birthday, and every guest is wearing a shirt with a picture of fifteen-year-old you doing a backbend.
Margaret Thomas Buchholz doesn’t have to imagine it, because the Long Beach Island town of Harvey Cedars did just that for her on April 15, 2023 on what was officially proclaimed “Margaret Thomas Buchholz ‘Poochy’ Day” honoring her as Harvey Cedars’ most celebrated citizen.
Margaret “Pooch” Thomas Buchholz.
Weaver Lilley
She might view herself as ordinary, but this spunky, original Long Beach Islander embodies the true essence of the Jersey Shore. She is a pillar of grace with a sense of adventure and a ledger containing ninety-one years of experience who blazed a trail of footprints in the sand that can never be washed away by the sea.
Buchholz was born in Manhattan to Josephine and Reynold Thomas in 1933, who met and married in New York City two years earlier. From when he was a child until he left to
fight with the United States Marines in World War I, her father summered in Harvey Cedars. The town was founded in 1894, and his uncle, Josiah B. Kinsey, bought a large chunk of property in the 1880s and began to develop it. Thomas often found his way back to Harvey Cedars after returning home from the war.
The quaint house Buchholz lives in today was built by her father eightyeight years ago. The Depression ended his family’s import-export business, so he relocated his family to Harvey Cedars when Buchholz was a toddler because he knew he could earn income by using his boat. Thomas eventually founded the Barnegat Bay Dredging Company, and her mother, a former researcher and writer who answered the patriotic call from Washington during World War I, continued to pursue her passion for writing by penning essays and articles while balancing her responsibilities as a mother and a wife.
One of Buchholz’s earliest memories is the November 1935 nor’easter, when her mother was pregnant with her brother, Michael, and her father was away in New York. “The tide was rising in the bay, and water surrounded the house, high enough to cover the steps to the front door,” she wrote in her memoir, Josephine. “I was too heavy to be carried. Foaming white caps splashed close to
my eye level, which was somewhere between my mother’s knees and hips, as she clutched my hand and dragged me through the water to the house at the end of 80th Street, where a Coast Guard truck picked us up.” The storm destroyed the railroad bridge leading to the island and covered the causeway with eighteen inches of water, thus cutting off vehicular traffic.
Over the years, her modest home withstood the hurricanes of 1938 and 1944, the devastating March 1962 nor’easter, Superstorm Sandy in 2012, frigid temperatures, tidal flooding, and other storm systems that have battered the Jersey Shore.
Known affectionately as “Pooch” or “Poochy,” Buchholz’s father bestowed upon her the nickname when she was very young. Recently, she found a letter written by her mother to her German grandmother in Michigan and she wrote, “The baby is a little pooch.” Buchholz explained, “Pupchen is German for ‘little doll,’ and I really didn’t care for it.” It wasn’t until the 1990s when she put it on her license plate that she really accepted it, and now, the nickname has evolved into a beloved moniker.
In September 1938, Buchholz entered first grade at the one-room schoolhouse in Barnegat City, which continued on page 30
Margaret “helping build” an addition on the family house in Harvey Cedars, 1936.
The Thomas’s home during the November 1935 nor’easter. The storm is one of Margaret’s earliest memories.
still stands today as the Barnegat Light Historical Society and Museum. “I remember there being five rows of desks, different sizes for different grades,” she recollected. “I won a reading award in fifth grade, and I was always athletic.” She vividly remembers an older student holding her hand at the blackboard and helping her write her name, Margaret Thomas. “We had a lot of freedom, played on the playground during lunch, and even had time once to sneak away to the Barnegat Lighthouse and climb it during lunch.” Many of her classmates were Scandinavian children of fishermen who had settled in the area during the 1920s. She remained at the Barnegat schoolhouse until completing fifth grade, when she went to Barnegat Grammar School.
There weren’t many other children in Harvey Cedars year-round, so Buchholz often played football and other sports with her brother and his friends. During World War II, they also often went up to the beach and collected items that washed up from ships that had been torpedoed offshore by the Germans, including C-rations, K-rations, lifejackets, and rubber ponchos.
It wasn’t until entering Barnegat High School that the writing bug began to nibble at Buchholz’s ear. She recalled, “As an incoming freshman in September 1946, if I wanted to get the job of class reporter on the editorial staff of the school paper, The Lighthouse, I had to submit an essay about the hazing I experienced on the first day of school. My mother helped me with my lead and with revising my work.” Her piece about how sophomores had smeared her face with lipstick landed her the job of feature writer. To her dismay, she earned a nickname in high school she despised more than “Poochy.” She said, “Because I wore a sweater with birds on it, I was called ‘Birdie,’ which to me, was worse than ‘Poochy.’”
One morning in June 1947, Buchholz woke up and couldn’t move her legs. She was diagnosed with Polio, spinal scoliosis, and her doctors recommended for her to be as active as possible because she was still growing. She made the school’s basketball team as a sophomore. “We chose our numbers to put on our shirts, and I chose 00. I thought it would help me make a basket or two,” she said. “During a home game against Tuckerton, Mr. Burton (the coach) put me in when we were losing badly, I guess he figured I couldn’t do any damage. I made a hook shot from way out, and—swish—it went in. I can still remember the roar of the crowd and the surprised look on Mr. Burton’s face.” During high school, she was also a cheerleader and played softball, and she continued to play basketball through college.
Her path after graduation led her to Keystone Junior College near Scranton, Pennsylvania, then to Cedar Crest College in Allentown, where she graduated in 1954 with a degree in English. It was at Keystone when she first took a journalism course, thus unknowingly beginning her career in the communications field. “I went to the University of Pennsylvania to research a paper about Henry James when I was a student at Cedar Crest and discovered I loved researching,” she said.
In June 1950, Donald Craig started The Beachcomber, a weekly seasonal newspaper covering news and lifestyle on Long Beach Island. Buchholz’s mother wrote gardening and cooking columns and essays for The Beachcomber while Buchholz sold advertising and wrote copy during her college summers. She returned to Harvey Cedars after graduation, and after falling in love with Bill Douglas, who was the editor of the Beach Haven Times, the two married in 1955. They bought The Beachcomber two weeks later.
Buchholz’s career as a publisher officially embarked as she managed The Beachcomber while her husband continued at the Times. The newlyweds lived for a brief spell in a rental cottage near Barnegat Lighthouse until moving into their new house that was built across the street from the house she grew up in upon the lot where she and her brother played as children. Buchholz gave birth to her son, Billy, in November 1955, and her daughter, Elizabeth, in December 1956, while her mother battled breast cancer for a second time in her life, having undergone a mastectomy in 1940 when Buchholz was in elementary school.
Fate would hand Buchholz the unthinkable in April 1957 when her husband took his own life on the same beach where she played on as a child and swam in the summer. She recalled in Josephine, “That cruelest April of 1957, I had no choice but to pull myself together. I had two babies and a business to run.”
Grandma Thomas, Margaret, her son Bill, and father Reynold Thomas, April 1956.
Margaret and her brother Michael, 1936.
Buchholz did just that and successfully ran The Beachcomber for thirty-two years. In July 1959, she penned her mother’s obituary for The Beachcomber after cancer became stronger than her mother’s determination and strength. When she sold the newspaper to The Sandpaper in 1987, the new owners kept her on as editor for twenty more years. Unfortunately, The Beachcomber fell victim to the pandemic and ceased publication.
During the mid-1970s, an older woman walked into The Beachcomber’s office and donated a binder full of news clippings about storms from roughly 1915 through 1940. That binder gave her an idea for a book about storms, an idea that resonated within her for years. With more time on her hands after selling The Beachcomber, the idea resurfaced and allowed her to put her love of researching to work. In 1993 at sixty years old, she published her first book, co-authored with Larry Savadove, Great Storms of the Jersey Shore. The book was updated in 2019 to include more recent storms, including Superstorm Sandy, and is considered a classic in Jersey Shore book publishing.
Similarly, a glimpse into a collection of articles about shipwrecks while she was researching at the Monmouth County Historical Association headquarters in Freehold sparked the idea for her book New
Jersey Shipwrecks - 350 Years in the Graveyard of the Atlantic, which was published in 2004. “I don’t have a favorite story from the book, but I do like the chapter about the Tolck,” she said, “because that one was local, right here in Harvey Cedars.” The David H. Tolck, a three-masted schooner heading to Cuba from New York, wrecked along the shores of Harvey Cedars in 1879. The schooner’s captain and wife were among the five fatalities, but their eighteenthmonth-old daughter, Ginevra Sawyer was rescued then cared for by the wife of James Hazelton, the proprietor of the Harvey Cedars Hotel. Eventually, Ginevra was taken to her grandparents in Maine on a train along with the bodies of her parents.
After moving back into her childhood home several years after the death of her father in 1984, who served as the mayor of Harvey Cedars from 1955 until his passing, Buchholz unexpectedly discovered a treasure trove that would change her life: her mother’s archives safely stowed away within the attic and the window seat facing the Barnegat Bay.
She unearthed diaries, journals, and layers of yellowed files and envelopes filled with documents and letters. Prior to her marriage, her mother had worked as a researcher and writer for Frank Carpenter, who was a journalist and writer of geography textbooks, and as a ghostwriter for noted broadcaster and writer Lowell
Thomas. She kept copies of almost every piece she wrote and letters she mailed to family. “She died when I was twenty-six,” Buchholz said, “and I really didn’t get to know her. These archives were a gift, they helped me know my mother.” The collection also included letters her mother wrote to her sister, who had gifted them to her father after she passed away.
It was through these archives Buchholz learned her mother, the youngest of ten children, shared her love of travel. She learned her mother had crisscrossed the Atlantic in the 1920s in ocean liners and had cruised the Caribbean on a four-masted windjammer just before the stock market crash. Josephine graduated high school, worked at a newspaper, answered the call of service at the War Department in Washington, D.C., had a professional career, and lived an independent life before women were even allowed to vote. And this woman was her mother, someone she had only seen as navigating the demands of family and motherhood while rebounding from The Depression.
Buchholz’s mission became clear: to write a book that would weave the incredible gift of her mother’s unique voice with her own. She dedicated herself to researching her mother’s world by authentically experiencing the places her mother called home at various points in her life. She walked the streets her mother lived on in Ionia, Michigan, and visited the neighborhoods where she lived and worked in Washington, D.C. Her journey led her to the Marist College Archives and Special Collections in Poughkeepsie, New York to view the Lowell Thomas archives and to public libraries in New York City and Washington, D.C. Her hard work culminated in 2012 with the publication of Josephine - A Memoir, 1917-1959From Washington Working Girl to Fisherman’s Wife. Buchholz writes in the prologue, “By lifting the lid, I let loose not a Pandora’s Box of wicked mischief, but something far more profound and pleasurable. I freed my continued on page 32
Josephine Thomas, Margaret’s mother and the subject of her 2012 book, “Josephine - A Memoir, 1917-1959” at The Beachcomber office in the early 1950s.
mother’s spirit through her words.”
The memoir provides a glimpse into the life of a young, professional woman in the first half of the 20th century and how her path shifted out of duty and circumstance. The book’s secondary character is the town of Harvey Cedars and documents its growth from a few small bungalows nestled between the ocean and the bay into a sprawling summertime haven full of visitors and year-long residents. Out of all of her work, Buchholz is most proud of Josephine because it brought her closer to her mother. “When I finished writing the book, I cried harder than when she died,” she said.
There is so much more to Buchholz than words, newspapers, books, or her work as the historian of Harvey Cedars. She piloted catboats and sneakboxes along Barnegat Bay and has amassed quite a collection of sea glass plucked from local beaches. And she absolutely loves dancing, especially Greek dancing. “I always loved to dance, and I still do. It’s my passion,” she said. She was first exposed to Greek dancing in her teenage years from a friend who was Greek American. She took Greek dance classes when she lived in San Francisco in 1971, then
when she moved to Philadelphia, she joined a Greek dance group that performed for several years starting with the Bicentennial events in 1976. “I’ve performed in Philadelphia, Boston, the Kennedy Center, and Washington, D.C. for almost twelve years,” she reminisced, then mentioned one of her favorite memories was taking her granddaughter to see her perform in Boston.
After her second marriage to Guenter Buchholz ended and her children were grown, Buchholz literally traveled the world. She has collected stamps on her passport from Yemen, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, Italy, France, Spain, Tunisia, Morocco, the Balkans, Fiji, Cuba, and New Zealand, just to name a few. “I am hooked on traveling,” she said, “even though my camera got stolen once. I didn’t let that stop me.”
In 2019, Buchholz received the Pauline S. Miller Lifetime Achievement Award for Ocean County History from the Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission. She was also honored by the Friends of the Island Library in 2005 for a “Lifetime Chronicling the Heartbeat and the Rhythms of Long Beach Island.” These are just two of many awards Buchholz has
amassed over the years, but to her, what matters most is when people connect with her work.
Today, Buchholz keeps active and splits her time between Maine with her son and his family, Key West, and Harvey Cedars. She speaks at events, holds book signings, and cruises with friends on Barnegat Bay. A living history book, she has witnessed the geographical changes and growth of Long Beach Island with her own eyes, including the expansion of the lanes coming in and out of the island from two to four, houses tripling in size as bungalows were razed for mansions, and the number of lights and people exploding summer after summer, but she wouldn’t change a thing. “I am happy and comfortable to be where I am,” she said, “and Harvey Cedars is home.”
Life has forced Buchholz to rise like a phoenix from the ashes too many times, including from her own breast cancer diagnosis and the untimely deaths of her brother, her daughter, and her granddaughter. As she looked out upon the Barnegat Bay, she remarked, “My life’s journey has been to keep functioning through tragedy, and I’ve done just that.”
With her unwavering perseverance, her innate fervor for life, and her undaunted authenticity, Margaret Thomas Buchholz is a true Jersey Shore gem whose life gleams bright with purpose. u
To learn more about Margaret Thomas Buchholz, visit www.margaretbuchholz.com. Margaret’s books are published by Down The Shore Publishing, one of the Jersey Shore’s first and finest publishers of quality books. Since 1984, they have specialized in Jersey Shore subjects, particularly Long Beach Island, including regional histories, literary anthologies, pictorial books, historical videos, notecards, and their popular Jersey Shore calendars. Most of Margaret’s titles are available at booksellers and gift shops throughout the region or online. For more information or to purchase, visit www.down-the-shore.com.
Margaret in Yemen, 1979.
Selected Books
by or edited by Margaret Thomas Buchholz
Jill Ocone
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE & TOURISM INFORMATION
JERSEY SHORE
ATTRACTIONS and
Activities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
1856 Highway 35, Wall, (732) 280-8800
www.JSCCnj.com
Amusement Parks, Rides, & Boardwalks
ASBURY PARK
Asbury Park, (732) 502-5749
www.apboardwalk.com
www.CityofAsburyPark.com
Indoor Ice Skating
HOWELL ICE ARENA
269 Squankum Road, Farmingdale (732) 919-7800
www.jerseyshorearena.com
THE ICE PALACE
Please refer to our ad on page 64. Help your business grow and prosper by joining this premiere networking and business-generating organization. As a member of the Jersey Shore Chamber of Commerce, you will automatically open doors to more than 70 networking opportunities throughout the year! You’ll enjoy weekly breakfast meetings, informative business seminars, tasteful after hours, dinner and cocktail events. You will also have access to the business development tools and resources available at our convenient and welcoming chamber office. You will have the ability to connect with a premiere network of professional business men and women…people who want to do business with you! Yet, the success of the JSCC is no accident. Guiding the Chamber for more than 19 years is Executive Director Evelyn Mars and her very hard-working Board of Directors. Thinking of joining? Visit www.JSCCnj.com or call the chamber office at (732) 280-8800.
POINT PLEASANT BEACH
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
517A Arnold Avenue Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 899-2424 or 1-888-772-3862
Email: info@pointpleasantbeachnj.com www.pointchamber.com
Please refer to our ad on the inside back cover.
One of NJ’s top ten beaches, unique shops and restaurants on the boardwalk plus Convention Hall and the Paramount Theatre.
POINT PLEASANT BEACH BOARDWALK
Point Pleasant Beach Chamber Of Commerce, (732) 899-2424
www.pointchamber.com
Mile-long white sand beach, boardwalk, aquarium, arcades, restaurants, stores, and rides. Beach admission fee in season. GSP Exit 98.
SEASIDE HEIGHTS BOARDWALK
Borough of Seaside Heights, George E. Tompkins Municipal Complex
100 Grant Avenue, Building B Seaside Heights, (732) 793-9100
www.seaside-heightsnj.org
Seaside Heights Business Improvement District/Tourism, P.O. Box 43, Seaside Heights, 833-4SEASIDE www.exit82.com
Three-mile-long beachfront that has white sandy beaches and a mile-long boardwalk in Seaside Heights overflowing with games, rides, waterpark, restaurants, and shops.
Historic Villages
HISTORIC VIKING VILLAGE
19th Street and Bayview Avenue Barnegat Light
www.vikingvillage.net www.vikingvillageshows.com
197 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick (609) 755-5885
www.theicepalace.net
JERSEY SHORE ARENA
1215 Wyckoff Road, Wall, (732) 919-7070
www.jerseyshorearena.com
RED BANK ARMORY ICE COMPLEX
76 Chestnut Street, Red Bank (732) 450-9001
www.redbankarmory.com
WINDING RIVER SKATING CENTER
1211 Whiteville Road, Toms River (732) 244-0720 www.tomsrivertownship.com/213/ Winding-River-Rink
Party / Charter Boats
PURPLE JET SPORTFISHING FLEET
Docked at Spike’s Fishery, 415 Broadway Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 996-2579
www.PurpleJet.com
Please refer to our ad on page 35.
The Jersey Shore’s premier family vacation resort town! From our mile-long white sand beaches and landmark boardwalk to incredible shopping, dining, and special events, Point Pleasant Beach has it all! Visit our historic downtown shopping district, with numerous retail stores, antique shops, restaurants, and eateries. Fabulous dining and entertainment can be found all over town with dozens of choices, from fine to fun to waterfront and oceanfront dining. Our landmark boardwalk features arcades, rides, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, miniature golf, dining, entertainment, and more! Free beach events all summer long including Jenkinson’s Music Festival on Wednesdays and Fireworks every Thursday night. For the best in deep-sea fishing, our party and charter boat fleet offers a variety of choices for every angler, from novice to experienced. Contact us for a complimentary Point Pleasant Beach Guidebook or visit us online! UPCOMING EVENTS: 10-13: 6th Annual Inlet Tug; 10-19: Annual Beach Sweeps; 10-24: Ladies Night Out; 11-2: Beers On The Boards; 11-29: Annual Tree Lighting & Santa’s Arrival; Dec.: dates t.b.a.: Breakfasts and Brunches with Santa and Free Horse & Carriage Rides!
THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE Allaire State Park, Route 524, Wall (732) 919-3500
www.allairevillage.org
Please refer to page 19 and the listings under “Parks” and “Historic Sites & Museums.”
TUCKERTON SEAPORT
120 West Main Street, Tuckerton (609) 296-8868
www.TuckertonSeaport.org
Please refer to page 18.
Tuckerton Seaport, a working maritime village, is located along the Tuckerton Creek. This one-of-akind attraction, in the heart of historic Tuckerton, brings the Jersey Shore’s maritime traditions of the past and present to life through people, exhibits, and hands-on activities. Discover the Jersey Shore’s unique maritime heritage and the interaction between culture and nature on the Barnegat Bay. Experience the rich traditions of the Jersey Shore and its Baymen through the Seaport’s recreated and historic buildings, demonstrations, interpretive exhibits, events, festivals, live aquatic displays, and more. Decoy carvers, boat builders, basket makers, and baymen entertain, educate, and delight visitors of all ages. Stroll the 3/4 mile boardwalk and experience life on the Tuckerton “Crik.” Identify birds and plants on our 1/4 mile nature trail. Tour our site and view garveys, sneakboxes, cruising yachts, and party boats displayed on land and water. Open Saturday to Wednesday from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
The Purple Jet Sportfishing Fleet offers five boats from 31’ to 85’ and features a fun family atmosphere, fast cruising speeds, and quality custom tackle. Whether you desire a pleasant day of inshore action or a serious offshore/canyon tuna battle, Captain Dave Riback and crew will share their thirty-plus years of knowledge and experience. Private fishing trips from 2 to 100 passengers catering to both novice and professional. Fish inshore or offshore for Striped Bass, Blues, Fluke, or Canyon Tuna. Full day, half day, and evening trips. Party Cruises, Whale Watching, and Fireworks Cruises. Half Day Afternoon Family Fishing Special (up to 5 passengers): $950.!
QUEEN MARY
Docked at Spike’s Fishery, 415 Broadway Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 899-3766
www.NJQueenMary.com
Please refer to our ad on page 35.
Voted #1 on the Jersey Shore, the legendary, 85-foot Queen Mary’s crew has over 30 years of experience and a solid reputation for providing an excellent deep sea fishing experience. Fishing daily April - Dec., 6:30 AM - 1:30 PM. Amenities include fast twin diesels, a large comfortable cabin with plenty of seating, a spacious sun deck, and separate ladies’ restroom. Family fun atmosphere and children are welcome. Rods available. Fish cleaning service. Striped Bass and Bluefish: late April - early Dec.; Stripers: late April - first week of June and Oct. 15 - Dec. 15; Bonito and False Albacore: Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. Weekdays: Adults: $99. Seniors 60+: $90. Kids 12 and under: $65. Weekends: Adults: $125. Seniors 60+: $105. Kids 12 and under: $75. Reservations not required. In summer, try one of our Friday evening Live Music Sunset Cruises, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Available for private party cruises and charters. Please call for more information.
Climate Controlled
Indoor Rifle & Pistol Range
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Open To The Public Gun Rentals Available Lessons And Sales
No Experience Needed 12 Rifle & Pistol Lanes
Firearm Supplies
Gift Certificates Available
730 Airport Road Lakewood, NJ
Off GSP Exit 89C in the Lakewood Industrial Park 732-905-6888
www.shoreshotpistolrange.com
Please refer to page 35
Bay Point, REALTORS
Deborah Valente
Realtor Associate
Office: 732-899-3338
Mobile: 908-278-2758
Email: dvalente@jerseyshoreliving.com
526 Bay Avenue Point Pleasant Beach www.JerseyShoreLiving.com
Petting Farms & Zoo
ALLAIRE COMMUNITY FARM
1923 Baileys Corner Road, Wall Township (732) 796-3298
www.allairecommunityfarm.org
This non-profit farm rescues animals and supports special needs populations—teens suffering from mental health issues, veterans with PTSD, and local families battling cancer. Enjoy zoo tours, scenic tractor-pulled barrel train rides, wagon rides, and more. At the petting zoo, visitors will encounter Nigerian Dwarf goats, sheep, chickens, rabbits, guinea hens, ducks, geese, Tofu the Turkey, a donkey, a ninehundred-pound pig named Lily, Al the Alpaca, Lola Grace the cow, and a number of horses. Entrance and ride fees. On-site horseback riding lessons available for ages six through adult. The farm market sells fresh produce, eggs, fair-trade products, seasonal items, and goods from local vendors. Open Tues. - Sat. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Sun. 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Visit Facebook for daily postings and operating updates.
ATLANTIC FARM MARKET
1506 Atlantic Avenue, Manasquan (732) 528-8660
www.atlanticfarmmarket.com
Operating farm market and petting zoo with seasonal hayrides and activities. The market offers seasonal plants, fruit, and vegetables—100% farm-grown and 100% locally sourced. The petting zoo offers a memorable experience for kids and adults. Pet, feed, and interact with a wide variety of family-friendly animals. In the fall, there are pick-your-own pumpkins, hayrides, corn-mazes, and face painting. In winter, there are handmade decor items, Christmas trees, wreaths, and more. They also host birthday parties, class trips, and private events.
POPCORN PARK ANIMAL REFUGE
Humane Way at Lacey Road (Bamber Lake), Forked River, (609) 693-1900
www.ahscares.org
Located in the heart of the Pine Barrens and originally established in 1977 as a refuge for wildlife which could no longer survive on their own in the wilderness, Popcorn Park Refuge now has over two hundred domestic and exotic animals living in large surroundings. Each animal has its own story. Open daily for children and adults alike.
Pistol Range
SHORE SHOT PISTOL RANGE
730 Airport Road, (off GSP Exit 89C in the Lakewood Industrial Park) Lakewood, (732) 905-6888
www.shoreshotpistolrange.com
Please refer to our ad on page 35.
Shore Shot offers twelve indoor firing positions for rifles, pistols, and small bore shooting as well as lessons with our top, NRA-certified instructors. Ages 12 and up can fire on the range, and no experience is needed. Gun rentals are available for range use; no permit or license required. Our retail shop has a complete line of new and used firearms as well as accessories for all of your shooting needs. Hourly rates and special membership plans are available. Gift certificates available. Come on down and have a blast with us! Open Mon. 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM; Tues. - Sat. 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM; Sun. 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. u
PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO
PARKS
and Recreation Areas in Monmouth and Ocean Counties
ALLAIRE STATE PARK
THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE
4263 Atlantic Avenue (Route 524) Farmingdale, Park: (732) 938-2371
Village: (732) 919-3500 www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/ allaire.html
www.allairevillage.org
Please refer to page 19.
This park boasts a restored early-nineteenthcentury bog iron mining community. You’ll find picnicking, playgrounds, campsites, walking and riding trails, a Nature Center, general store, living history, and the Pine Creek Railroad steam trains. See also “The Historic Village At Allaire” under “Historic Sites & Museums.”
BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE STATE PARK
Route 72, Long Beach Island, (732) 494-2016 www.njparksandforests.org/parks/barnegat lighthousestatepark.html www.friendsofbarnegatlighthouse.org
A one-time hideout of Captain Kidd and his pirates, this panoramic beach now offers fishing, swimming, trails, birding, and picnicking. Historic “Old Barney” lighthouse is here, too, and you can learn the story behind the lighthouse at the Interpretive Center. Park open daily 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Lighthouse open daily Memorial Day - Labor Day, 10:00 AM4:30 PM. Lighthouse admission: ages 12 and older: $3.; children 6 to 11: $1.
BAYSHORE WATERFRONT PARK AND MONMOUTH COVE MARINA
719 Port Monmouth Road, Port Monmouth (732) 783-3033 or (732) 842-4000
Marina: 200 Port Monmouth Road Port Monmouth, (732) 495-9440
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
At 228 acres, this scenic park is home to a 495-foot fishing pier, the historic Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center (the Seabrook-Wilson House), and beautiful views of the Raritan Bay and the NYC skyline. Beach access, salt marshes, boating, fishing, birding, picnicking. Purchased by Monmouth County in 1990, the Monmouth Cove Marina is part of Bayshore Waterfront Park.
CATTUS ISLAND COUNTY PARK AND COOPER ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
1170 Cattus Island Boulevard (off Fischer Boulevard), Toms River (732) 270-6960 or 1-877-OC PARKS
www.oceancountyparks.org
The unspoiled beauty of nature is the main attraction at Cattus Island County Park. For nature lovers,
this 530-acre park offers panoramic bay views, hiking trails, a 1000-foot ADA compliant boardwalk through the wetlands, a conservation area, bird watching, crabbing and fishing, picnic areas, a playground, a beautiful Butterfly Garden, and cross-country skiing in the winter. This environmentally sensitive park boasts 7 miles of trails, many offering lovely vistas of Barnegat Bay. Cattus Island is home to the Cooper Environmental Center, where visitors of all ages can enjoy hands-on displays including a live view osprey cam, a habitat and tree tunnel, a bird viewing area, a children’s activity corner, and a spectacular collection of live reptiles and fish. The center hosts numerous programs and presentations for the community year-round.
CLOVERDALE FARM COUNTY PARK
34 Cloverdale Road, Barnegat 1-877-OC PARKS
www.oceancountyparks.org
Get acquainted with this tucked away, 90-acre jewel, the newest park in the Ocean County system. A former cranberry bog and tree farm, the natural beauty of the park lends itself to a unique 1.4-mile self-guided nature trail that meanders through the farm and into undisturbed woodlands offering an escape from every day life. Also on the grounds are original buildings from the Collins’ family farm, dating back to the early 1900s. The Nature Center, opened in May 2015, contains exhibits that highlight the natural beauty and historical significance of the park and is open on Fri., Sat., Sun., and by chance during the rest of the week.
DEEP CUT GARDENS
152 Red Hill Road, Middletown (732) 671-6050 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Deep Cut Gardens is dedicated to the home gardener. The 54 acres of gardens and greenhouses are planned as a living catalog of cultivated and native plant materials to be observed through the seasons. The renovated parterre features 52 varieties of roses with over 180 bushes. Whether identifying the specimens in the gardens, questioning the horticultural staff, or perusing the books and magazines in the horticultural reference library, you will discover ways to improve your home garden. While there, visit the Home Compost Demonstration Area. Views of the surrounding countryside, shade, seating, and picnic tables. Garden programs and classes are offered year-round.
DOUBLE TROUBLE STATE PARK
Double Trouble Road West, Berkeley or 581 Pinewald Keswick Road, Bayville (732) 341-6662
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/ double.html
Double Trouble State Park offers an outstanding example of the Pine Barrens ecosystem and a window into Pine Barrens history. The park provides the protection and interpretation of over 8,000 acres of significant natural, cultural, and recreational resources representative of the Pinelands National Reserve. Rich with natural and cultural heritage, visitors can enjoy trails, fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, and kayaking. Double Trouble Village is a well-preserved historic village featuring New Jersey’s cranberry agriculture, logging, and milling industries. Experience the cranberry bogs, restored village buildings, and Interpretive Center. The park is open 8:00 AM to dusk. The Interpretive Center is open Wed. - Sun. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
HARTSHORNE WOODS PARK
300 Navesink Avenue, Locust (Buttermilk Valley Entrance); 1402 Portland Road Highlands (Rocky Point Entrance); 239 Locust Avenue, Locust (Claypit Creek) (732) 872-0336
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
You’ll feel many miles away from civilization as you travel the trails of this 794-acre park. Features include group cabin camping (by reservation), cross country ski trails, fishing in the Navesink River, and trails for walking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Adventure, exercise, and relaxation await you on the nineteen-mile trail system. It’s the perfect place to escape the sounds of suburbia. A historic World War II naval gun from the Battleship New Jersey is now on permanent display as a part of the Battery Lewis restoration.
HENRY HUDSON TRAIL
Northern Section: Aberdeen to Highlands Southern Extension: Freehold to Marlboro and Aberdeen Activity Center: 945 Route 36, Leonardo Popamora Point: 369 Shore Drive Highlands, (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This paved, 10-foot wide, 24-mile long trail is a former railroad right-of-way. It is relatively flat, traveling through both man-made and natural environments. Much of the trail is tree-lined, though some parts have views of surrounding wetlands, streams, and fields. The northern section runs 12 miles (just north of and parallel to Route 36) from the Aberdeen/Keyport border at the intersection of Lloyd Road and Clark Street to the Leonardo section of Middletown/Atlantic Highlands border at Avenue D. After sharing the road, the trail resumes at the Atlantic Highlands Marina and continues along Sandy Hook Bay to Popamora Point at the Atlantic Highlands/Highlands border. Currently, the southern extension of the trail runs 4 miles from Route 537 in Freehold to Big Brook Park in Marlboro. The trail then resumes at Station Road in Marlboro and continues for five miles to Church Street in Matawan. Future plans for the Trail include linking these two sections as well as providing a connection to the original, northern section. The trail totals 100 acres. The Henry Hudson Trail is part of the National Rails-to-Trails Network because of its wonderfully changing landscapes, varied scenery, and beautifully maintained conditions.
HOLMDEL PARK AND HISTORIC LONGSTREET FARM
44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel (732) 946-3758 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This 572-acre park features hiking and fitness trails, fishing and skating ponds, tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, a sledding hill, and more. Historic Longstreet Farm, located in the park, is a living history farm that maintains life as it was during the 1890s. Costumed interpreters work the farm as it was over a hundred years ago. Come see the 14-room farmhouse, live animals, agricultural fields, and barnyard. The park is also home to the David C. Shaw Arboretum, a 22-acre educational and horticultural display devoted to trees, shrubs, and other woody plants that grow in Monmouth County. Activities, guided tours, and children’s programs are available. Open every day except Christmas. The farmhouse is open only on weekends from March through December. No pets are allowed on the farm.
Edgar
Feliz
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park.
HUBER WOODS PARK
25 Brown’s Dock Road, Locust section of Middletown, (732) 872-2670 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Enjoy a fabulous view of the Navesink River and relax as you get away from it all on one of the trails. This park features 366 acres of forest and meadows. Other attractions include eight miles of multi-use trails, the Environmental Center with hands-on nature displays, and the newly renovated Reptile House where visitors can see and learn about a variety of native reptiles and amphibians. A visit to Huber Woods Park is the perfect opportunity to appreciate facets of nature that are often taken for granted. Take time amid the scenic beauty and panoramic views to observe the small things—the sounds, smells, lights and shadows, and subtle hints of seasonal changes. Relax in a meadow or take a walk along a wooded trail. Each experience will enhance your appreciation of the fascinating natural world around you. Check online for a schedule of year-round educational programs.
ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK
2401 Central Avenue, Seaside Park (732) 793-0506
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/ island.html
Friends of Island Beach State Park: www.friendsofibsp.org
One of the few remaining undeveloped barrier beaches on the North Atlantic, Island Beach State Park stretches for ten miles between the Atlantic Ocean and the historic Barnegat Bay. Over 3,000 acres of pure beauty offer habitat to maritime plants and diverse wildlife, including New Jersey’s largest osprey colony. Bathing areas, food, botanical preserve, trails, natural areas, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, picnicking, the Sedge Island Conservation Zone, and the Emily DeCamp Interpretive Center. Open Mon. - Fri. 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Sat., Sun., and holidays 7:00 AM8:00 PM. Access to fishing in the park is 24 hours-aday. Mobile sportfishing vehicle permits are available through the Park’s Visitor Contact Station at the entrance gate. Please check the website for current entrance fees (charged by vehicle).
JAKES BRANCH COUNTY PARK AND NATURE CENTER
1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood (732) 281-2750 or 1-877-OC PARKS www.oceancountyparks.org
Known as “The Gateway to the Pines,” the 400acre Jakes Branch County Park offers a balance of active and passive recreation opportunities. The Nature Center highlights the beauty, history, and natural surroundings of the Pine Barrens and offers recreational and environmental education programs year-round. Breathtaking views of the seemingly endless pine forest can be taken in from the observation deck atop the Nature Center. Jakes Branch
also offers soccer, baseball/softball, tennis, and basketball in addition to miles of nature trails and a discovery playtrail.
JOHN C. BARTLETT, JR. COUNTY PARK
AT BERKELEY ISLAND
399 Brennan Concourse
Berkeley Township 1-877-OC PARKS
www.oceancountyparks.org
Situated on a scenic peninsula jutting out into the calm waters of Barnegat Bay, John C. Bartlett, Jr. County Park’s location provides one of the best views of the bay in Ocean County. Reconfigured and reconstructed after Superstorm Sandy, the park’s 25 acres feature a family-oriented spray park, playground, walking paths, small picnic area, bit stations, and more. The 100-foot crabbing and fishing pier is one of the County’s most popular. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day sunning, fishing, or crabbing. Picnic area, grills, playground, pavilion, horseshoe pits, bocce courts.
MANASQUAN RESERVOIR
Park and Visitor Center: 311 Windeler Road
Howell, (732) 919-0996 or (732) 842-4000
Environmental Center: 331 Georgia Tavern Road, Howell, (732) 751-9453
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This popular recreation area sits on a 770-acre reservoir and features 1,208-acres of land and water. Hike or bike its 5.1-mile perimeter trail or walk its 1.1-mile nature trail through woods and wetlands. For boating or fishing, rent or put in your own canoe, kayak, rowboat, or electric powered rowboat. There are daily or seasonal ramp fees. The reservoir is open year-round for fishing and is stocked with large and small-mouth bass, hybrid striped bass, tiger muskie, bullhead catfish, and panfish species. A state fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and over. Or tour the reservoir on a thirty-six foot pontoon boat with a park naturalist who will introduce you to the area’s plants and wildlife. Forty minute weekend tours are available from Memorial Day to the end of September. $6. for adults and $4. for twelve and under. There are also picnic areas, a playground, and a visitor’s center with boat and bicycle rentals, a bait shop, vending machines, and a bicycle repair station. In the winter, depending upon weather conditions, the reservoir is open for ice skating, ice boating, and ice fishing. Be sure to visit the Environmental Center at 331 Georgia Tavern Road. It provides experiences of learning and discovery of wetland ecology and wildlife as well as habitat protection. It is open daily 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM with free admission.
MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD AND MONMOUTH
BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK
16 Business Route 33, Manalapan (732) 462-9616
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/ monbat.html
Friends of Monmouth Battlefield: www.friendsofmonmouth.org
One of the largest battles of the American Revolution took place on the fields and in the forests that now make up Monmouth Battlefield State Park. This is where Molly Pitcher became famous, and it was on Monmouth Battlefield that General Washington and General Sir Henry Clinton faced each other. This victory convinced the British that the revolutionaries were a force to contend with and not just a ragtag rabble. This is also the setting for the historic Craig House, a restored Revolutionary War farmhouse (See Historic Sites & Museums.) You can learn more about the rich history of Monmouth Battlefield through its award-winning Visitors Center and wayside exhibits located on Perrine Hill, Combs Hill, and the
Hedgerow. The park preserves a splendid, rural 18th-century landscape of hilly farmland and hedgerows that encompasses miles of hiking and horseback riding trails. There are picnic areas, playgrounds, trails, birding, and sledding and cross-country skiing in winter. Also within the park is Battleview Orchards. From May to October, they offer pick-your-own strawberries (end of May), sour cherries (end of June), peaches and nectarines (mid-to-late July), apples (September), and pumpkins (October). A country store is open all year. The Applegate family, who has been farming the area since 1908, own and operate the Orchards. Visit www.battlevieworchards.com or call (732) 462-0756 or (732) 462-0970 for picking hours and more information.
MOUNT MITCHILL SCENIC OVERLOOK
460 Ocean Boulevard, Atlantic Highlands (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This is the Jersey Shore’s highest point—266 feet above sea level—and is the second highest point on the Atlantic seaboard (after Maine’s Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park). The overlook’s 12 acres offer spectacular views of Sandy Hook, Raritan Bay, and the NYC skyline and features picnic tables and a playground. Mount Mitchill is home to Monmouth County’s 9/11 Memorial, a tribute to the 147 men and women born, raised, or residing in Monmouth County who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
continued on page 38
MONMOUTH COUNTY PARK SYSTEM
805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Please refer to page 18.
Over 16,175 acres of preserved open spaces are available for your fitness and relaxing pleasure at more than thirty county parks. From hiking trails and campsites to golf courses and historic sites, there are opportunities for all. Visit us on-line or call for brochures and directions.
OCEAN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & RECREATION
1198 Bandon Road, Toms River,1-877-OC PARKS www.oceancountyparks.org
Please refer to page 20.
On more than 4,000 acres in twenty-seven facilities, The Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation offers programs for adults and children including classes, sports events, trips, festivals, and more! All of the parks have at least a few picnic tables, and some parks are able to accommodate large groups. Two parks offer swimming facilities: Ocean County Park in Lakewood and A. Paul King County Park in Stafford Township have beautiful, freshwater lakes and sandy beaches, playgrounds, restrooms, picnic facilities, and are staffed with lifeguards from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily from mid-June until Labor Day (conditions permitting). There is no charge to use any of the county facilities. Call or visit the website above for brochures and directions.
FISHING LICENSE INFORMATION
Before heading out to fish, make sure you have the proper documentation.
SALTWATER registration (free): www.nj.gov/dep/saltwaterregistry/index.html
FRESHWATER license information and registration (fee applies): www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/fishneed.htm
View of the New York City skyline from Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook, Atlantic Highlands.
Bob Didner
Public Golf Courses
Ocean County
BEY LEA GOLF COURSE
1536 North Bay Avenue, Toms River, (732) 349-0566
CEDAR CREEK AT BERKELEY Tilton Boulevard, Bayville, (732) 269-4460 www.golfcedarcreek.com
EAGLE RIDGE GOLF CLUB
2 Augusta Boulevard, Lakewood, (732) 901-4900 www.EagleRidgeGolf.com
LAKEWOOD COUNTRY CLUB
145 County Club Drive, Lakewood, (732) 364-8899 www.lakewoodcountryclubnj.com
OCEAN ACRES COUNTRY CLUB 925 Buccaneer Lane, Manahawkin, (609) 597-9393 www.oceanacrescc.com
OCEAN COUNTY GOLF COURSE AT ATLANTIS
Cuisine On The Green Restaurant
261 Country Club Boulevard, Little Egg Harbor Twp. (609) 294-2444 www.oceancountyparks.org
OCEAN COUNTY GOLF COURSE AT FORGE POND
301 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick, (732) 920-8899 www.oceancountyparks.org
SEA OAKS COUNTRY CLUB
99 Gold View Drive, Little Egg Harbor, (609) 296-2656 www.seaoakscc.com
Monmouth County
BEL-AIRE GOLF CLUB
3120 Allaire Road at Route 34, Wall, (732) 449-6024 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
CHARLESTON SPRINGS GOLF COURSE
101 Woodville Road, Millstone, (732) 409-7227 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
CRUZ FARM COUNTRY CLUB
55 Birdsall Road, Farmingdale, (732) 938-3378 www.cruzgolfcc.com
GAMBLER RIDGE GOLF CLUB
Burlington Path Road, Cream Ridge, (609) 758-3588 www.gamblerridge.com
HOMINY HILL GOLF COURSE
92 Mercer Road, Colts Neck, (732) 462-9222 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
HOWELL PARK GOLF COURSE
405 Squankum-Yellowbrook Road, Howell (732) 938-4771 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
OLD ORCHARD COUNTRY CLUB
54 Monmouth Road, Eatontown, (732) 542-7666 www.oldorchardcountryclub.org
PEBBLE CREEK GOLF COURSE
40 Route 537 East, Colts Neck, (732) 303-9090 www.pebblecreekgolfclub.com
PINE BROOK GOLF COURSE
1 Covered Bridge Blvd., Manalapan, (732) 536-7272 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
SHARK RIVER GOLF COURSE
320 Old Corlies Avenue, Neptune, (732) 992-4141 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
SPRING MEADOW GOLF COURSE
4181 Atlantic Avenue, Farmingdale, (732) 449-0806 www.springmeadowgc.com
TWIN BROOK GOLF CENTER
1251 Jumping Brook Road, Tinton Falls, (732) 922-1600 www.twinbrookgolfcenter.com
WILLIAM F. LARKIN GOLF COURSE AT COLONIAL TERRACE
1003 Wickapecko Drive, Ocean Twp., (732) 775-3636 www.ColonialTerraceGolf.com
OCEAN COUNTY PARK
659 Ocean Avenue (Route 88), Lakewood 1-877-OC PARKS or (732) 506-9090 Park Naturalist: (732) 506-5122 www.oceancountyparks.org
This magnificent 323-acre facility in Lakewood has a rich and fascinating history. The park was originally part of financier John D. Rockefeller’s vacation estate. White pine, hemlock, and other unique specimen trees, now mature, were imported by Rockefeller from all over the country. Fitness and bike trails, open playing fields, tennis courts, beach volleyball, canoeing, fishing, and even a driving range, all free of charge, appeal to adults of all ages. Children will delight in using the playgrounds or swimming in the large, clean lake on hot summer days. Ocean County Park has a large, accessible picnic facility. Reservations are available for a nominal fee for up to 600 persons. Warm weather isn’t the only time to enjoy this park. Transformed into a lovely and silent winter wonderland after a snowfall, it’s a great site for cross-country skiing. Of course, there is no charge for casual use of the park, the beach, or its many facilities. An off-leash dog park area is also available. Yearly fee applies. Visit website for details.
SANDY HOOK:
GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA, SANDY HOOK UNIT
SANDY HOOK LIGHTHOUSE FORT HANCOCK HISTORIC DISTRICT
SANDY HOOK VISITOR’S CENTER
Off Route 36, Highlands, (732) 872-5970 www.nps.gov/gate www.nps.gov/gate/planyourvisit/sandyhook.htm
Friends of the National Park Service at Sandy Hook: www.sandyhookfoundation.com
The Sandy Hook region of the Gateway National Recreation Area features seven miles of beaches (with lifeguards in summer), evening beach concerts, hiking trails, salt marshes, and over three hundred species of birds. Ranger (and self-guided) tours are available year-round. The park is open daily, sunrise to sunset. Located near the tip of this seven-mile barrier peninsula, is the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Built at the request of New York merchants wanting to protect their ships entering the harbor, it was lighted for the first time on June 11, 1764. The octagonal tower was the fifth lighthouse in the colonies and remains the oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S. today. The Lighthouse was occupied by British soldiers during the American Revolution and was bombarded by cannons served by Patriot troops. It was also the sanctuary to local refugees who were sympathizers of the King. While there, also visit the Fort Hancock Historic District. Built in 1898, Fort Hancock includes gun batteries and over one hun-
dred buildings. Start your visit at the Fort Hancock Post Museum; then visit History House, an 1890s officers’ home. The Sandy Hook Visitor’s Center is located at the Lighthouse Keepers Quarters in Fort Hancock. It features exhibits on the peninsula’s natural environment. An 1894 U.S. Life-Saving Station at Spermaceti Cove was closed after Superstorm Sandy and is currently not open to the public. Special use fees for beach parking are charged, while entry to the historic district is free. The park is open 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily, except by permit. The Visitor’s Center is open on weekends from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
SEVEN PRESIDENTS OCEANFRONT
PARK
221 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch (732) 229-7025 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This 38-acre park was named to honor seven presidents who vacationed in the immediate area. In the summer, its guarded beach is a great place to swim, sun, and surf. During the off-season, it is a nice place for a quiet walk. Park features include an activity center, access to launch personal watercraft, fishing, a playground, swimming, sand volleyball, pavilion with snack bar, and restrooms. New improvements include a regulation in-line skating rink, a skate park, a shelter, and parking area. The park is open every day from 8:00 AM to dusk.
TURKEY SWAMP PARK
200 Georgia Road, Freehold Township (732) 462-7286 or (732) 842-4000 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Turkey Swamp features 2,281 acres including a 17-acre lake for fishing, boating, and skating. Fish for bass, catfish, or bluegills either from the shore or from canoes and paddleboats that you can rent in summer. The lake offers winter ice-skating when the ice is thick enough. Nine miles of multi-use and fitness trails traverse the park, which is located at the northern end of the Pine Barrens. Turkey Swamp’s terrain is relatively level and the lake adds scenic interest. There is also an archery range and playgrounds. Get back to nature by spending the night at the family campground or reserve a picnic shelter for your next big group picnic. The family campground offers campsites, electrical service, water service (April 1 - November 15), drinking water, modern restroom with hot showers and laundry, a self serve sanitary dump station for campers with holding tanks, fire rings for charcoal cooking and campfires, picnic tables, and a children’s playground. Check website for up-to-date boat rental and camping fees.
WELLS MILLS COUNTY PARK AND NATURE CENTER
905 Wells Mills Road (Route 532), Waretown (609) 971-3085 or 1-877-OC PARKS www.oceancountyparks.org
Wells Mills has the distinction of being the largest park in the Ocean County Park System, with over 900 acres of pine and oak forest within southern New Jersey’s environmental marvel, the Pine Barrens. Miles of hiking trails, with varying degrees of difficulty, can be found here, including a visually impaired persons trail. The three-story Nature Center offers a great display floor, a library, and the third floor Elizabeth Meirs Morgan Observation Deck. Environmental programs and classes, with experienced naturalists, are held regularly. The annual “Pine Barrens Jamboree” held each October is an event not to be missed. Beautiful Wells Mills Lake has trails meandering around it, and is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the Pine Barrens. Bike trails, canoe rentals (seasonal), conservation area, fishing, Nature Center, open playing fields, picnic area, playground, restrooms. u
Fort Hancock, Sandy Hook.
Andy Kazie
PLACES
TO GO & THINGS TO DO
HISTORIC SITES
and Museums in Monmouth and Ocean Counties
THE BAILEY-REED HOUSE MUSEUM
Squan Village Historical Society
105 South Street, Manasquan (732) 223-6770
www.manasquan-nj.gov/borough-historian/ pages/squan-village-historical-society
The original section of this home was built in the late 1700s, with additions to the building over the next several decades. The museum contains a circa 1850 parlor, a circa 1900 dining room, and the original part of the home is furnished in the 1700 period. The second floor has a circa 1850s furnished bedroom, a research room, a Manasquan room, a Nautical room, a “theme” room, and a general store where purchases are available. Behind the museum is the Carriage House/Barn. Recently restored, the beams in this out-building are the spars from the shipwreck The Thistle from the early 1800s. Open Mon. and Thu. 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM and on the second Sun. of each month 1:00 PM4:00 PM. Tours by appointment.
BARNEGAT LIGHT MUSEUM
501 Central Avenue, Barnegat Light (609) 494-8578
www.BL-HS.org
Considered one of the best maritime museums on the East Coast, the Barnegat Light Museum features artifacts, replicas, and photographs depicting the history of Barnegat Light, Long Beach Island, and the fishing industry. The museum, once a one-room schoolhouse for Barnegat Light, is now on the National Register of Historical Places. Open daily in July and Aug. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Open weekends June, Sept., and Oct. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Tours are available by appointment. The beautiful Museum Gardens are open all year.
BAY HEAD HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
1643 Bay Avenue (corner of Bay and Bridge Avenues), Point Pleasant (732) 892-0223
www.bayheadhistoricalsociety.com
The 1867 Loveland Homestead houses artifacts, memorabilia, photographs, furniture, decoys and other treasures from the early years at the head of Barnegat Bay. Worthy of note are original Gerard Hardenburgh paintings and carved decoys by Kenneth Loveland, the Birdsall family, and many others. The museum’s wonderful collection of photographs, contributed by William C. Schoettle, is particularly noteworthy for its comprehensive look at the head of Barnegat Bay as it was in its heyday (the mid 1880s to about 1940). The Slade Dale Cottage is a tribute to a man who, as a youth, was a noted sailor in this area and who continued throughout his life to engage in memorable sea voyages and bay races. On display are several boat models that represent his life of adventure as well as the Emma C. Berry tender. The museum and Slade Dale Cottage are open to the public June through December on Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Visit their website for more information and current hours and exhibits.
CEDAR BRIDGE TAVERN HISTORIC SITE
200 Old Halfway Road, Barnegat Township 1-877-OC PARKS or (732) 929-5769 www.oceancountyparks.org
Historic Cedar Bridge Tavern, located on 5 acres and surrounded by Bass River State Forest, dates back to 1816; however, the history of the site reaches back much further. It is rumored that the last skirmish of the American Revolution occurred here on December 27, 1782. A ceremony commemorating
this event is held at the site each year on the Sun. closest to December 27. Due to its two-hundredyear history as a hub for locals and a crossroads for travelers, the tavern is listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. The newly renovated tavern and property dates back to the 1800s and stands as a historical showpiece in the Ocean County Park System. Visitors, including school and group tours, are welcome to visit the landmark tavern and experience its role in history. Open yearround. Check website for hours.
Pleasant.
THE CHURCH OF THE PRESIDENTS
1260 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch www.churchofthepresidents.org
In the late 1800s, Long Branch prospered and grew from the nation’s first seashore resort to the “summer capital of the nation.” Seven U.S. Presidents (Grant, Hayes, Wilson, Garfield, Arthur, Harrison, and McKinley) all chose to summer here and worship. In 1881, the St. James Episcopal Chapel was built and consecrated. Constructed in the traditional shape of a cross, its architecture resembles a cottage of the pseudo-Tudor design which was popular in the 1880s. Now the home of the Long Branch Historical Museum, it contains artifacts and memorabilia relating to Long Branch’s national historical role, the original altar, transepts, and part of the nave are preserved. While there, visit Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park on the corner of Ocean and Joline Avenues (732-842-4000). This 38-acre park was named to honor the seven presidents who vacationed in the immediate area.
HAVENS HOMESTEAD MUSEUM
521 Herbertsville Road, Brick (732) 785-2500
www.bricktwphistoricalsociety.com
Restored 1827 homestead of farmer and fish peddler Josiah Curtis Havens. See original 14’ x 15’ single room home plus 1846 addition created as a tavern and inn for stagecoach passengers. The homestead contains many historic items from our area. Open April - Oct., Sat. 10:00 AM - noon; Sun.: noon - 2:00 PM. Closed holidays.
THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE
ALLAIRE STATE PARK
4263 Atlantic Avenue (Route 524) Farmingdale, Village: (732) 919-3500
Park: (732) 938-2371
www.allairevillage.org
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/ allaire.html
Please refer to page 19.
The Historic Village at Allaire is a non-profit, educational institution and outdoor history museum.
Through collections, exhibits, and daily programs, the village presents events in the everyday lives of the inhabitants of Howell Works, an industrial community established between 1822 and 1850 when bog ore was smelted. The purpose is to create an understanding of the lives and times of the men, women, and children who lived and worked there. Grounds are open year-round. Hours: April - October: The village craft shops, historic homes, general store, and bakery are open Wednesday - Sunday, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. NovemberDecember: The general store and bakery are open Friday - Sunday, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. The village craft shops and historic homes are open for special events only. January - March: The village craft shops, historic homes, general store, and bakery are open for special events only. See also “Allaire State Park” under “Parks & Recreation Areas.”
HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF OCEAN GROVE
50 Pitman Avenue, Ocean Grove (732) 774-1869
www.oceangrovehistory.org
Founded by Methodists as a camp meeting ground back in 1869, Ocean Grove, which is a National Historic District featuring Victorian charm, is still flourishing today for its original purpose. The Historical Society offers guided tours inside the quaint tent colony, visits to Centennial Cottage (open July and Aug. Tue. - Sat. 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM weather permitting) and the Great Auditorium, built to standards set forth in the Book of Genesis.
INFOAGE SCIENCE AND HISTORY MUSEUMS
2201 Marconi Road, Wall, (732) 280-3000
www.infoage.org
InfoAge is located in Wall Township at the site of the former Camp Evans, a World War II historical site and National Historic Landmark. It is home to over two dozen museums and exhibits as well as community groups and volunteer organizations. Part of InfoAge’s mission is the stewardship of Camp Evans and preservation of its heritage including the historic Marconi station and major WWII radar laboratory buildings as well as the development of an “Information Age Learning Center.” Visit the National Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the NJARC Museum in the Marconi Cottage. Enjoy an escorted tour of the Marconi Hotel, and see the WWII Living Memorial. They have ten rooms filled with computer, radar, radio, and shipwreck exhibits. Open Wed., Sat., and Sun. 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Admission: $12. (ages 13 and up); $8. (ages 4-12); younger children are free.
JOHN F. PETO STUDIO MUSEUM
102 Cedar Avenue, Island Heights (732) 929-4949 www.petomuseum.org
The mission of this museum is the preservation of the John F. Peto legacy by maintaining his 115-yearold house and studio as a working museum, by fostering educational opportunities in the arts, and by serving as a community partner. Guests will see the original studio, artifacts, and furnishing used by Peto, who lived and worked in Island Heights from 1890 to 1907. Today, Peto is recognized as one of America’s most important still life painters. His works are found in the world’s finest museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC. His artwork is dominated by rich colors and enhanced lighting. He often used the “fool the eye” technique known as trompe l’oeil. Open Sat. and Sun. 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM; Mon. - Fri. by appointment. Admission: adults: $10.; seniors (62+) and students: $8.; children twelve and under: free.
Bay Head Historical Society Museum in Point
Jill Ocone
AREA LIGHTHOUSES
BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE
Broadway and the Bay Barnegat Light, (609) 494-2016 www.njparksandforests.org/parks barnegatlighthousestatepark.html
More commonly known as “Old Barney,” the lighthouse is the New Jersey Shore’s most familiar landmark. The 172-foot tower, marking the entrance to Barnegat Inlet, was built in 1858. Climb the 217 steps to the top for amazing, breathtaking views from every angle. The park offers facilities for picnicking and fishing.
ROMER SHOAL LIGHT STATION
Off Sandy Hook www.romershoal.org
Romer Shoal Light marks a dangerous shoal with a light and foghorn at the approach to the Verrazano Narrows of New York Harbor on the east side of Ambrose Channel. It is visible from Sandy Hook and the eastern Bayshore region. The shoal and lighthouse were named for the William J. Romer, a vessel which sank here in 1863. The maroon and white harbor beacon dates back to 1898. After a brief stint as a landbased training light at the National Lighthouse Keepers Academy on Staten Island, it was moved to its current location. Romer Shoal Light Station was added to the State and National Register of Historic Places in 2007. It was acquired in 2011 by a non-profit group determined to breathe new life into this historic gem. The light was significantly damaged by Superstorm Sandy and is closed to the public. Renovation work is currently underway.
SANDY HOOK LIGHTHOUSE
Off Route 36, Sandy Hook, (732) 872-5970 www.nps.gov/gate/planyourvisit/ sandy-hook.htm
sea, its original Fresnel lens focused the light from a kerosene lamp that could be seen for fifteen miles. During World War II, the Coast Guard patrolled the beaches and used the lighthouse to monitor the U-boat menace off the coast. Today, organizations use this preserved historic site as a meeting place, and schools visit for class trips. Inside are period furnishings, paintings, historic maps, local photographs, and lighthouse memorabilia. Open Sundays May - November, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM; closed major holidays. Donations welcome.
TUCKER’S ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE
Tuckerton Seaport, 120 West Main Street (Route 9), Tuckerton (609) 296-8868
www.TuckertonSeaport.org
Please refer to page 18 and the listing for “Tuckerton Seaport” under “Attractions & Activities.”
Tucker’s Island Lighthouse is a reproduction of the light that was built in 1868 on Tucker’s Island, a five-mile island off Long Beach Island that slowly disappeared into the sea between the mid-1920s and 1952. The island had residents, a school, two hotels, and a Coast Guard station. When you enter the building, look for photos of the original lighthouse as it collapsed into the sea on October 12, 1927. The lighthouse contains exhibits on New Jersey maritime history and the people who lived it, including the stories of shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers, and the U.S. Lifesaving Service. From the second floor, you can climb the forty-two steps to the top of the tower for a beautiful view of Tuckerton Seaport and Lake Pohatcong. Open Saturday to Wednesday from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
HISTORIC SITES & MUSEUMS
continued from page 39
L. RON HUBBARD HOUSE
666 East Avenue, Bay Head www.lronhubbard.org/heritage-sites/bay head-new-jersey.html
The home where Dianetics and Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard authored Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health stands fully restored today in Bay Head. Dianetics was published in Manhattan in May 1950 and soared straight to the top of The New York Times bestseller list. By the close of the twentieth century, it was the best-selling self-help book of all time and remains so today. Following meticulous restoration, Mr. Hubbard’s Bay Head residence stands today exactly as it did when he lived there. Through original artifacts, informative displays, and photographs, the home relates the origin of the book that followers of the religion say provides the means to release the full potential of the human mind. The birthplace of Dianetics is open for tours.
LONG BEACH ISLAND
HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM
Engleside and Beach Avenues
Beach Haven, (609) 492-0700
www.lbimuseum.com
This museum reveals life on Long Beach Island during the Victorian era. Come view their collection of early photographs ranging from the big hotel era to hurricanes that tore through the Island. The museum also displays an extensive collection of recovered shipwreck artifacts and documents the lives of the early Barnegat Baymen and seafarers. Admission: $5. per adult; children are free. Open daily July - Aug. 10:00 PM - 4:00 PM; Sat. and Sun. in June and Sept. 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM and by appointment.
Located near the tip of this seven-mile barrier peninsula is the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Lighted for the first time on June 11, 1764, the octagonal tower was the fifth lighthouse in the colonies and remains the oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S. today. The Lighthouse was occupied by British soldiers during the American Revolution and was bombarded by cannons served by Patriot troops. It was also the sanctuary to local refugees who were sympathizers of the King. The park is open 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily, except by permit. The Visitor’s Center is open on weekends from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
SEA GIRT LIGHTHOUSE
9 Ocean Avenue, Sea Girt, (732) 974-0514 www.seagirtlighthouse.com
In March 1889, Congress approved funds for the establishment of a lighthouse to bridge the fortymile gap between the Twin Lights Of Navesink and Barnegat Light. In July 1895, a site was chosen: Sea Girt at Wreck Pond, overlooking the Atlantic. One year later, on December 10, 1896, its beacon was illuminated. It would become the last live-in lighthouse to be built on the Atlantic Coast. Five station keepers manned the light from 1896 to 1940. A protector of those at
TWIN LIGHTS OF NAVESINK
Lighthouse Road (off Route 36) Highlands, (732) 872-1814 www.twinlightslighthouse.org
Twin Lights Of Navesink is a brownstone double lighthouse. This two-beacon light marked the western entrance to New York Harbor. The south tower became the first electrically operated lighthouse in the U.S. The present towers, rising 250 feet above the Sandy Hook Bay, were constructed in 1862. Though decommissioned in 1952, local organizations had a 500-watt blinker light installed in 1962 as a reminder of the Light’s heritage. Marconi conducted the first ship-to-shore broadcast here. The museum’s exhibit centers around the history of the Twin Lights, marine history, and the U.S. Life-Saving Service. Grounds open daily 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Museum open Wed. – Sun. 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Free admission to the grounds and museum. During the summer, the North and South Towers are open to climb for a fee: $5./adult and $2./child. Tours: $12./ adult and $2./child. Park and building hours can be affected by inclement weather. Call for current status.
LONGSTREET FARM AND HOLMDEL PARK
44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel Park Holmdel, (732) 946-3758 or (732) 842-4000 www.monmouthcountyparks.com
A living history farm located in Holmdel Park that maintains life as it was during the 1890s. Costumed interpreters work the farm as it was over a hundred years ago. Come see the 14-room farmhouse, live animals, agricultural fields, and barnyard! Activities, guided tours, and children’s programs are available. Open everyday except Christmas. The farmhouse is open only on weekends. Holmdel Park’s 572 acres features hiking and fitness trails, fishing and skating ponds, tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, a sledding hill, and more.
MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD AND MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK
16 Business Route 33, Manalapan (732) 462-9616
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/ monbat.html
This is where Molly Pitcher became famous during a Revolutionary battle. It was on the Monmouth Battlefield that General Washington and General Sir Henry Clinton faced each other. This victory convinced the British that the revolutionaries were a force to contend with and not just a ragtag rabble. This is also the setting for the historic Craig House. Learn more about the rich history of Monmouth Battlefield through wayside exhibits located on Perrine Hill, Combs Hill, and the Hedgerow. Visitors center, birding, picnic areas, trails, and playgrounds. Sledding and cross-country skiing in winter.
MONMOUTH COUNTY HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION
70 Court Street, Freehold, (732) 462-1466
www.monmouthhistory.org
Five 18th century historic houses have been preserved by the association. They include the Tavern Museum at Allen House in Shrewsbury, Covenhoven
Sea Girt Lighthouse
Photo by: David Turton Photography
House in Freehold, the Holmes-Hendrickson House in Holmdel, and Marlpit Hall and the Taylor-Butler House, both in Middletown. Its headquarters in Freehold offers a fine library and museum featuring changing and permanent exhibitions. Museum hours: Wed. - Sun. 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Thurs. 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM. The historical houses are open on a rotating schedule. Please call or visit the website for locations and times.
MONMOUTH MUSEUM
Brookdale Community College
765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft (732) 747-2266
www.monmouthmuseum.org
The Monmouth Museum, founded in 1963 as a Museum of Ideas, presents changing exhibits in the fields of art, history, and science to educate and entertain while providing a destination for creative expression and life-long learning to the diverse community it serves. Changing exhibitions featured in the Museum’s Main Gallery and the Nilson Gallery present a wide variety of art in all media. Children will have exciting learning experiences in the popular Dorothy V. Morehouse WonderWing and Becker Children’s Wing. Located on the campus of Brookdale College. Admission: $10./person; children under two: free. Main Gallery and Nilson Gallery open Tues. - Sat. 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sun. noon5:00 PM. Dorothy V. Morehouse WonderWing and Becker Children’s Wing hours: call or check website.
NAVY LAKEHURST HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Naval Air Station, Route 547, Lakehurst (732) 323-6547
www.nlhs.com
The society staffs a Heritage Center featuring Naval Air Station Lakehurst's amazing and distinguished history. Although the base will forever be remembered as the site of the Hindenburg disaster, it was also the nation’s first international airport and the western terminus for the commercial transatlantic flights of the German dirigibles Hindenburg and Graf Zeppelin. The base was also home of a military lighter-than-air fleet including the rigid airships (ZRS-1) Shenandoah, (ZRS-3) Los Angeles, (ZRS-4) Akron, and (ZRS-5) Macon as well as many U.S. Navy blimps. In addition, the station has served as a center for research into aircraft ejection seats and carrier aircraft launch and recovery techniques. Many other significant events have taken place here, and there are extensive artifacts from its past on display. Tours include The Cathedral of The Air, The Hindenburg Crash Site, The Navy Lakehurst Heritage Center, The Ready Room, The POW-MIA Room, and Historic Hangar One. Due to security requirements, you must pre-register two weeks prior to your tour. To register: (732) 600-8055 or tours@nlhs.com. No walk-ins or additions to the group will be accepted on the day of the tour. Tours are held 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM. April - October: Every Wednesday and 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month; November - March: Every Wednesday and 2nd Saturday of the month.
NEW JERSEY MARITIME MUSEUM
528 Dock Road, Beach Haven, (609) 492-0202
www.NJMaritimeMuseum.org
Dedicated to the preservation of New Jersey’s rich maritime history, this beautiful museum’s two floors of exhibits feature shipwreck artifacts, an 1827 Aurora exhibit, a Morro Castle room, and a rare postcard collection. The museum also features a lending library, a New Jersey shipwreck database, and gift shop. WiFi Internet access and computer stations are available for use. Guest presentations are held throughout the year. Free admission. On-site parking. Handicapped accessible. Open all
year. June - Aug. daily 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Sept.May, Fri., Sat., Sun. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
NEW JERSEY MUSEUM OF BOATING
Johnson Brothers Boat Works, Building 13 1800 Bay Avenue, Point Pleasant (732) 606-7605
www.njmb.org
New Jersey’s only museum dedicated to the history of boating throughout the state. Its mission is to celebrate New Jersey’s rich boating history, preserving, presenting, and interpreting boats, marine equipment, and materials built and used on New Jersey’s waters. Exhibits bring to life famed New Jersey boatbuilders, fishing fleets, sail and motor boats, and important events in New Jersey boating history including the history of steamboats on New Jersey waters, the origins of the U.S. Life Saving Service along the Jersey Coast, the pound boat fishing industry, the sport of waterfowling, and more. Yearround programs include both guided and self-directed tours, and summer programs include boating safety, sailing classes, and boat building. Open Fri.Sun. noon - 4:00 PM; May - Labor Day, Wed. - Sun. noon - 4:00 PM. Admission is free. Group tours and school groups welcome.
NEW JERSEY SHIPWRECK MUSEUM
At InfoAge Science and History Museums
2201 Marconi Road, Wall, (732) 456-5045
Email: info@njhda.org
www.njhda.org
The New Jersey Historical Divers Association’s New Jersey Shipwreck Museum contains artifacts recovered from area shipwrecks. The NJHDA identifies wrecks by recording with video, taking photographs, obtaining accurate measurements, and recovering artifacts. The museum includes a time line of wrecks that are significant to New Jersey maritime history. Hands-on exhibits that teach aspects of science as they relate to shipwrecks and artifact recovery are also on display. Available for researchers are books, maps, plans, records, and photographs of shipwrecks. Open Wed., Sat., and Sun. 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Admission to InfoAge is $12. (ages 13 and up); $8. (ages 4-12); younger children are free.
NEW JERSEY VIETNAM VETERANS’ MEMORIAL AND VIETNAM ERA MUSEUM
1 Memorial Lane (Exit 116 off the Garden State Parkway), Holmdel, (732) 335-0033
www.njvvmf.org
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation is committed to sharing the experiences of the Vietnam Era and its enduring legacy. The Memorial recognizes the valor of New Jersey’s Veterans and the sacrifices of their families and communities. The Museum collections encourage learning by exploring the Vietnam Era through an inclusive and objective lens. The Memorial is free and open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Free guided tours with Vietnam Veteran guides are held Tues. - Fri. 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM and Sat. 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. The Vietnam Era Museum is open Tues. - Sat. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Admission: Adults - $7. Seniors/Students - $5. Veterans, Active Duty Military, and Children Under 10 - Free.
OCEAN COUNTY
HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River, (732) 341-1880
www.oceancountyhistory.org
Telling the stories of Ocean County since the time of the Lenni Lenape to the present day, the Ocean County Historical Society offers a Research Center, open Tues. and Wed. 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM for historical and genealogical research. The Victorian Museum features docent-led tours of the collections of treasures in the Pierson-Sculthorp home Tues. and Thurs. 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM and the first Sat. of each month
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Trips to points of interest in the tri-state area as well as enjoyable and education programs are available to members and non-members.
POINT PLEASANT
HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
Point Pleasant Borough Hall 416 New Jersey Avenue Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 892-3091 www.pphsm.org
The Point Pleasant Historical Society Museum specializes in preserving photographs, maps, and other documents including early records from downtown businesses, meticulously compiled contemporaneous scrapbooks detailing the exploits of local men and women in World War II, and posters of baseball games played, vaudeville shows produced, and summer extravaganzas. Open monthly on the second Thurs. 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM or by appointment.
SPRING LAKE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
Spring Lake Municipal Building 423 Warren Avenue, Third Floor (732) 449-0772
www.springlakehistoricalsociety.org
The Main Gallery depicts the entire history of Spring Lake. Videos of special events can be viewed in the conference room. Special arrangements can be made for all history researchers. Open Thurs. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM and Sun. 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM or by appointment. Elevator available.
SQUAN BEACH LIFE SAVING STATION
124 Ocean Avenue, Manasquan (732) 447-6419
www.squan-lss.org
Established in 1902, the Squan Beach Life Saving Station is located about 1,000 feet from the Atlantic Ocean in Manasquan. This Duluth-style facility served to house volunteers and equipment used to save victims of shipwrecks off the Manasquan area coast. Today, the restored station serves as a museum and contains artifacts recovered by the New Jersey Historic Divers Association from shipwrecks along the New Jersey and Atlantic coasts as well as artifacts used in the U.S. Life-Saving Service and U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Operations, including a Francis Life-Car. Admission is free. Hours: May – September: Thurs. 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM; Sun. 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM.
VINTAGE AUTO MUSEUM OF NEW JERSEY
Johnson Brothers Boat Works
1800 Bay Avenue, Building 13
Point Pleasant, (732) 899-0012
www.vintageautomuseum.org
The Vintage Automobile Museum of New Jersey is the perfect place for children and adults to admire vintage vehicles, classic cars, race cars, memorabilia, libraries, and more. Every vehicle on display has a plaque describing the mechanics of the vehicle and its history. Since the displays rotate every two months, guests can enjoy a new fleet of classic cars and a different experience every visit. Open Fri.Sun. 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. u
New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Holmdel.
The Long Branch Pier & Boardwalk
The Storied History of This Beach Resort Destination Goes Back Nearly 200 Years—With Five Iconic City Piers and a Boardwalk Playing a Central Role
by Greg Kelly
Long gone now—it had an aura and electricity all its own. Today, few people know—and even fewer care—about the allure of the once mighty Long Branch Pier and Boardwalk. This cradle of city connectivity and charm had real flamboyance in its time. There have been five city piers in all going back nearly two hundred years—with lots of hot summer nights included. Can it return? The spot has been pier-less for thirty-seven years now.
“The Amusement/Fishing Pier,” mid-1980s. At the time, the property was owned by Pat Cicalese, including the Haunted Mansion, Water Slide, and Kid’s World.
The Bath House Pier, 1828 - 1854
The first-ever “pier” out over the Atlantic Ocean was built in 1828, according to the Long Branch city-bio book, Entertaining a Nation.
Thaddeus W. Whitlick, Alexander MacGregor, and John P. Lewis led the company that built what was called the “Bath House Pier.” It was used mainly as a dock for steamboats passing to and from New York City (a practice suggested back in 1809 by the New York Herald).
As of this writing, no proper records or images of this pier can be found. Back then, the area included about a half-dozen boarding houses for summer visitors. The pier was destroyed in a wicked November 1854 nor’easter—the same storm that doomed the infamous clipper ship New Era.
The East End Excursion Pier, 1875
In August 1875, the “East End Excursion Pier” (and an adjacent hotel) opened off the north Long Branch shoreline. Financed by “Gilded Age robber barons” Jay Gould and James Fisk, this “fragile folly” of Fisk, the “Branch’s gaudiest character,” and his “somber partner,” Gould, was said to have “belly-
flopped into the ocean” a week after opening, according to the Red Bank Register
The pier “proved a Waterloo” for the hotel, according to the Long Branch Record. Still, more Long Branch piers would follow.
The Ocean Pier, 1879 – 1880
The first commercially successful pier at Long Branch would come from the drive and vision of the Leland brothers, Warren (Jr.) and Charles, who took control of the nearby, massive, six hundred-room Ocean Hotel in 1872 and built “almost a private pier” for their hotel, according to the Long Branch Daily Record.
In November 1878, they formed the Long Branch Ocean Pier Company. (Charles was superintendent and John Fitch was president.) Charles was on the beach in February 1879 when the first pier pile was driven. By summer 1879, the fabulous “Ocean Pier” was operating, fronting Leland’s Ocean Hotel.
Designed by Maclay & Davis of New York City and built by Job Johnson of Brooklyn (they also worked on the Coney Island Pier), the 672-foot-long pier featured a wide promenade deck and underneath were six hundred cabanas. All the pier’s sixty-foot-long marine piles were made from Maine oak trees. The final construction cost was nearly $250,000. This first commercial pier had striking visuals— with its multi-colored “awnings, many benches and several refreshment booths all illuminated by gas-lamps set on tall ornamental poles,” according to Entertaining a Nation. Plus, the big
continued on page 44
“The Ocean Pier,” circa 1880. According to the Red Bank Daily Register, in October 1879, Eugene Fay “kept a saloon” in a pavilion at end of the pier and sold liquor and beer.
“The Iron Pier,” 1881.
& BOARDWALK, continued from page 43 steamships (Plymouth Rock and Jesse Hoyt), with thousands of visitors, docked on weekends. The pier was damaged by a major storm in 1880 and was rebuilt and rebranded.
The Iron Pier, 1881 – 1910
The “Iron Pier”—probably the most elaborate of all the city’s wharfside efforts—opened in 1881 at the apex of the Long Branch summer resort craze. The rebuilt pier was lengthened to 872-feet and a wide-deck promenade was added.
A very popular destination for tourists and locals alike, it offered breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. Grand steamships ferried in legions of visitors.
According to a June 1964 Long Branch Daily Record story marking the city’s sixtieth year of incorporation: “In 1882, a severe storm washed away the two hundred-foot extension but the entire pier was not destroyed, as sometimes reported.”
Always financially marginal as a business, the pier was again severely damaged in November 1901, first by a storm, and then by a tugboat collision. It went largely unused for the next decade.
The Amusement/Fishing Pier, 1912 - 1987
After years of delay and litigation, work on the $1 million “Amusement/Fishing Pier” began in
April 1910 when Jesse Howland of Sea Bright was awarded a $160,000. contract for “piling and flooring” work on the pier—made of reinforced concrete and steel, according to the Long Branch Daily Record.
In September 1910, the first piling for the new Long Branch Pier was water-pressure driven over that Labor Day weekend. Some 1,500 people attended, and Mayor Charles O. McFadden led the ceremony, according to the Red Bank Daily Register. Mrs. John Hubbard Parker christened the very first ten-ton pile. At 850-feet-long seaward, the pier was structurally completed in 1912. Samuel Rosoff was project director along with the Hennebique Construction and Ocean Construction companies. (Rosoff later built much of the New York City subway system and became known as the “millionaire ditch-digger” before his death in 1951.) By 1917, the city pier was assessed at $15,000.
As summer 1927 started, the Long Branch Daily Record claimed the “monolithic pier” had become “an amusement center” and “fisherman’s paradise.” This last city pier ultimately reached out 850-feet—before a November 1945 hurricane chopped off the end part.
For over three quarters of a century following, the city’s pier area endured —with plenty of ups and downs—as a spot for amusement and more.
The Amusement/Fishing Pier in the Late 1970s and 1980s
In April 1979, the pier was acquired by Ric-Cic, Inc. (Carmen and Thomas Ricci and Pat Cicalese), who invested $1 million in upgrades including the Haunted Mansion, which opened in July 1978. By 1981, Cicalese was the sole owner. A Newark native, “Patsy” had family business interests on the city oceanfront going back to 1962.
In 1985, he re-themed the pier area—coming up with the idea of “Kid’s World” after visiting “Sesame Place” in Pennsylvania. The $2.5 million amusement park—primarily for children ages two through twelve— covered eight acres along prime city oceanfront.
At the height of its late twentieth century appeal, the Long Branch pier and boardwalk offered: Pier Pub, Café Bar, Num’s, Big Al’s, Stuff Your Face, Sam’s Famous House of Ribs, and Jimmy’s Jetty for food and drink. Danny’s Hit-a-Away batting cages, Jungle Golf, Bumper Boats, City Jet, and Cinema 180 for fun. And Wizard’s World and Long Branch Arcades, the Water Slide, Haunted Mansion, and psychic ”Gifted Sara” for some thrills. Add the great swimming, surfing, fishing, and sun-bathing, and it became irresistible.
During its peak 1980s seasons, some one thousand anglers were known to cast off the city pier. The
“The Iron Pier,” circa summer 1881. Docked at the pier is the steamship Plymouth Rock, a 345-foot floating luxury hotel that could handle 3,500 passengers. The pier end breakwater was two hundred feet long and thirty feet wide.
prime catch through the years were fluke, whiting, and ling.
This last pier would survive for seventy-five years—longer than all previous structures—until June 8, 1987 when it burned in a spectacular conflagration. Faulty wiring at the McDonald’s on the boardwalk
sparked the fire that brought down the Long Branch landmark. Powerful west winds reaching thirty milesper-hour fed the destructive fire, and it burned uncontrolled for hours. In addition to the firefighters on land, the U.S. Coast Guard fought the blaze from the sea. When the pier burned, part of the city’s identity went up in smoke too.
The rotting remains of the Long Branch pier stood as an ugly wreck for ten years. The site was condemned by the city in August 1997 and finally torn down in April 1998. (In conjunction with the city’s $2.6 million beach replenishment project, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers did the demolition for just $19,000.) In June 1998, a three-member condemnation committee ruled that the burned-out
remains of the pier/amusement park were worth $550,000. Owner Patsy Cicalese had sought $4 million as just compensation.
Stories of its past can overflow the mind. Most locals have their own lasting memories and experiences. There’s a lot to remember. It reeked of rustic Jersey Shore charm. A step beyond carny—a bit more polished. Amusements and arcades. Dancing and drinking. Fishing and eating. Connecting and carousing. It was safe—mostly. It was clean—mostly. And it was affordable—mostly.
In 2005, the $130 million Pier Village community opened—minus a pier. Developer of the upscale sixteen-acre oceanfront site was Applied Development Company led by brothers David and Michael Barry. Recently, a new, nine-hole miniature golf course was opened, carrying on a long tradition of miniature golf along the beachfront.
A New Pier
City officials had been debating the idea of a new pier for over thirty years, and it had been over a decade since the matter was seriously discussed. At that time, the price tag was more than $125 million. Today, the city has begun preliminary work on a modern five hundred-footlong pedestrian/fishing pier. The $8+ million project, financed by city and state funds, is another bold legacy move by the administration of Mayor John Pallone who called the pier a major part of city history. Construction off Laird Street is set to begin in 2025.
continued on page 46
The 32-room Haunted Mansion fright house, 1980.
Long Branch Pier fire, June 8, 1987. In addition to firefighters on land, the U.S. Coast Guard fought the blaze from the sea.
Dan Hennessey
New Long Branch Pier sketch proposal, February 2024. The city has begun preliminary work on a modern, five hundred-foot-long pedestrian/fishing pier. The $8+ million project, financed by city and state funds, is another bold legacy move by the administration of Mayor John Pallone who called the pier a major part of city history. Construction off Laird Street is set to begin in 2025.
City of Long Branch
Pat Cicalese
The Long Branch Boardwalk
For all the glory of being a presidential summer resort, with an unmatched shore location and grand oceanfront accommodations, the idea of a “boardwalk” in Long Branch is a twentieth century concept. Indeed, a Long Branch boardwalk from North End to West End (part-concrete, part-composite lumber, part-wood and just under two miles long) still exists today—it’s over 115 years old. It didn’t come easy, though.
A true, functioning “first boardwalk” in Long Branch dates to summer 1880, when a seven hundredfoot-long bulkhead was constructed on the bluff in front of the Ocean
Hotel as part of a pier-rebuild project. It was topped with a wide-deck promenade, according to a 1983 Asbury Park Press story on pier history. On the north side of the promenade, Joseph Cooper opened a restaurant. (Clam pie topped the menu.) The south side was exclusive for hotel guests only.
By February 1900, according to the Long Branch Daily Record, the “Long Branch beachfront was owned by scores of individuals, some enterprising, others mean and lacking in public spirit.” As summer 1901 was ending, the Record reported on famed actor and resident Oliver Byron’s plan for an oceanfront boardwalk
that would “redeem Long Branch.”
In December 1903, the city’s newspaper also reported about a boardwalk plan (a double-decker with sun parlors and cabanas). While doing some pier promotion to Long Branch residents and officials, the Asbury Park Press quoted a University of Pennsylvania professor in a June 1904 editorial: “the key to the ocean is a boardwalk.” The world’s first boardwalk had opened in June 1870 in Atlantic City and the trend spread up the Jersey Coast. Both the Asbury Park and Belmar boardwalks went up just before the one in Long Branch.
In October 1904, a unanimous city council pulled rank, condemning and acquiring all the Long Branch shoreline property east of the new Ocean Avenue (impacting more than fifty-five owners), thus giving the city complete control of 9,000-feet of prime oceanfront—about two miles from North End to West End.
The focus on a new Long Branch boardwalk sharpened in March 1905 when the Long Branch Daily Record reported on a design plan by J. Wesley Seaman, the city engineer. The project at that point was called “Bluff Walk.”
Official action finally came in February 1906. According to the Red Bank Daily Register, the city council, as part of a $400,000 oceanfront improvement bond, approved Dean,
Summer 2020. Today where the piers once stood is Pier Village. The $130 million community opened in 2005. Recently, a new, nine-hole miniature golf course was added, carrying on a long tradition of miniature golf along the beachfront.
The city’s new boardwalk, looking south, circa 1909.
Schwiers & Sutton Co. of New York City to build a 9,921-linear-foot wooden boardwalk (just under 1.9 miles long) for $90,000. and George W. Rogers & Company of Sea Bright to construct the bulkhead and jetties for $154,000. The 1906 summer concession contracts—the first ever on the new boardwalk—went to H. Corn for cigars, W.D. Newman and Joseph Harrison for ice cream and soda, and A.B. Morris for popcorn. During the July 4, 1906 city celebration (with fireworks), the new boardwalk (with just six hundred-feet completed) was “jammed” with visitors. Mayor C. Asa Francis was the official greeter. Through the decades, among those to make major investments in ownership and/or operation of the pier and boardwalk included Isaac Cranmer, Daniel Maher, Leon Minogue, Ben Sowul, Jimmy Liu, and Pat Cicalese.
As an amusement and entertainment venue, the last, magnetic Long Branch Pier and Boardwalk would endure for some eighty years— through two world wars and The Great Depression, through destructive storms and “juvenile delinquency bouts,” through changing tastes and destinations. Not much more than a memory today, for decades the pier and boardwalk provided pure Jersey Shore merriment and created lasting memories for both locals and tourists. u
Greg Kelly is a local writer, historian, and publisher of MonmouthBeachLife.com, a website covering Monmouth Beach, Sea Bright, and Long Branch.
Launched in 2017, Greg seeks local facts by searching the digital archives of the Long Branch Daily Record, the Red Bank Daily Register, and the Asbury Park Press. Combined, the three papers provide more than 350 years of area news coverage.
A former reporter, editor, and columnist for the Atlanticville News (1985-2006), Greg is also the author of the book “Monmouth Beach: A Century of Memories” (2009), a history of his native town.
Greg can be reached at monmouthcounty life@gmail.com.
Pier Dancing –City Summers Past
Some ninety summers ago, it was The Great Depression and Long Branch tried to shuffle by. Today, nearly no one remembers the large “Dance Hall” at the end of the iconic Long Branch Pier.
The massive ballroom was built by future city mayor Daniel J. Maher. Opened in May 1925, the “most beautiful ballroom on the Jersey Coast” could accommodate 1,500 guests. The country’s best amusement engineers, Baker, Miller & Company of Connecticut, designed the dance hall as part of its overall pier proposal in January 1922.
By summer 1929, the pier dance hall was already “taxed to its capacity” on weekend nights, according to the Long Branch Daily Record. As the 1930s economic upheaval deepened, Americans turned to dance for popular entertainment. Ballrooms and dance contests were all the rage. Long Branch jumped right in. Beginning in summer 1932, a series of “Danceathons” and “Walkathons” were held on the city pier. The shows were broadcast live on WCAP Radio, and Jim Harkins was the frequent Master of Ceremonies. Carl Hartman’s Marathon Ramblers provided the music; the contests usually opened with the Foxtrot. Spectators were an integral part of dance marathon contests and Long Branch played along well. Boisterous audiences—cheering, encouraging, and sometimes sponsoring dancers—often provided added motivation for participants to keep moving. Over a thirteen-week period, nearly 140,000 people visited the pier ballroom to watch the dance drama. Admission was generally twenty-five cents.
The Asbury Park Press named the city spot “Mecca for Marathoners” from 1932 to 1935. Maher—who also provided free medical care, food, and shelter during the events—was considered by participants to run the “cleanest” and “fairest” dance events back then. Dr. Maurice Aaronson,
the event’s medical director, even offered that marathon dancing was “in no way detrimental to the health of contestants.” (View the unsettling 1969 movie They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? for a different perspective.)
Top prize money reached $2,000. (that’s $50,000. in today’s dollars), and typically the participants (both couples and solos) had to dance at least one thousand hours with fifteen-minute breaks to win. Rules enforced rigorously called for all dancers to be in constant state of motion. Any dancer whose knee hit the ground was disqualified. By 1935, “Red” Skelton was working on the “Recreation Pier”—paid $25. a week for his emcee duties in Long Branch. In later years, Skelton’s star would burn bright. Procter & Gamble signed him to a $9.5 million contract in 1951 to work in Hollywood. The “Clown Prince of TV” would go on to entertain CBS prime-time audiences for some twenty years.
With pier fishing increasing by the day and at night, the dance building was converted into more space for salt-water anglers. By summer 1938, it had gone from dance hall to “Fishermen’s Paradise,” according to the Long Branch Daily Record. The building was torn down in 1948, and the huge wooden trusses from the ballroom ceiling were used to construct the Long Branch YMCA Annex on Broadway in 1950.
By 1960, Maher had sold all his oceanfront holdings for “about $300,000.” Matt Sowul bought the pier in 1964, and the family sold all its interests in May 1979 to Ric-Cic, Inc. (Carmen and Thomas Ricci and Pat Cicalese), who invested $1 million in upgrades.
—Greg Kelly
The Dance Hall existed at end of the Amusement/Fishing Pier from May 1925 to summer 1938.
Asbury Park Press
COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
BROOKDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, (732) 224-2345 www.brookdalecc.edu
BROOKDALE AT WALL 800 Monmouth Blvd., Wall Twp., (732) 280-7090 www.brookdalecc.edu
GEORGIAN COURT UNIVERSITY
900 Lakewood Avenue, Lakewood, (800) 458-8422 www.georgian.edu
MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY
400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, (732) 571-3400 www.monmouth.edu
OCEAN COUNTY COLLEGE 1 College Drive, Toms River, (732) 255-0400 www.ocean.edu
Brick: 2125 Route 88 East, (732) 892-4640
Eatontown: 135 Route 35, (848) 308-4911
Forked River: 701 Route 9, (609) 250-4110
Freehold: 315 W. Main Street, (732) 414-6850
Hazlet: 1181 Route 36, (848) 308-4600
Jackson: 27 S. Cooksbridge Road, Suite 1-5 (732) 370-4222
Neptune: 2040 Route 33, (732) 455–5800
Ship Bottom: 901 Long Beach Blvd., (609) 361-2677
Toms River: 9 Mule Road, (732) 818-0004 www.HMHBetter.org/UrgentCare
HOSPITALS
Brick
HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH
OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER
425 Jack Martin Boulevard, Brick, (732) 840-2200 www.oceanmedicalcenter.com
Freehold
CENTRASTATE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM 901 West Main Street, Freehold, (732) 431-2000 www.centrastate.com
Holmdel
HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH
BAYSHORE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL 727 North Beers Street, Holmdel, (732) 739-5900 www.bayshorehospital.org
Lakewood
RWJBARNABAS HEALTH
MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER
SOUTHERN CAMPUS
600 River Avenue, Lakewood, (732) 363-1900 www.rwjbh.org/monmouthsouth
Long Branch
RWJBARNABAS HEALTH
MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER
300 Second Avenue, Long Branch, (732) 222-5200 www.rwjbh.org/monmouth
RWJBARNABAS HEALTH
THE UNTERBERG CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER 300 Second Avenue, Long Branch, (732) 923-7250 www.rwjbh.org/unterberg-childrens-hospital-atmonmouth-medical
Manahawkin
HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH
SOUTHERN OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER 1140 Route 72 West, Manahawkin, (609) 597-6011 www.southernoceanmedicalcenter.com
Neptune
HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH
JERSEY SHORE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
1945 Route 33, Neptune, (732) 775-5500 www.jerseyshoreuniversitymedicalcenter.com
HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH
K. HOVNANIAN CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL 1945 Route 33, Neptune, (732) 775-5500 www.khovnanianchildrenshospital.com/KHCH
Red Bank
HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH
RIVERVIEW MEDICAL CENTER 1 Riverview Plaza, Red Bank, (732) 741-2700 www.riverviewmedicalcenter.com
Toms River
RWJBARNABAS HEALTH COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTER 99 Highway 37 West, Toms River, (732) 557-8000 www.rwjbh.org/community
STORES & SHOPS
Bay Head
THE JOLLY TAR
56 Bridge Avenue, Bay Head (732) 892-0223
www.jollytarbayhead.com
www.Facebook.com/JollyTarBH
Please refer to the ad for “Anchor & Palette Gallery” on page 51.
Point Pleasant Beach
GOLD FEVER…CATCH IT
636 Arnold Avenue, (732) 892-3535 or (800) 540-3534
www.goldfevercatchit.com
Please refer to our ad on the back cover and our listing on page 49. We offer diamond, platinum, and sterling silver jewelry plus a wonderful selection of sea life jewelry by international designer Denny Wong. A large selection of vintage and antique jewelry. We sell GIA, AGS, and EGL certified diamonds at wholesale prices. Diamonds in all shapes and fancy colors. Jewelry repairs and laser eyeglass repairs done on premises. We buy gold, diamonds, and high-grade watches. Highest prices paid. Trusted in business for over forty years. Open seven days a week.
GOLD FEVER…WATCH IT
636 Arnold Avenue, (732) 892-3535 or (800) 540-3534
www.goldfevercatchit.com
Please refer to our ad on the back cover and our listing on page 49.
Come see the largest selection of pre-owned Rolex* watches at the Shore, all serviced and refinished to new condition. Vintage and antique Rolex also in stock. Unusual and hard to find models are here to see. Rolex and Breitling accessories available. We broker all major watch brands. We buy all high-grade watches. We will waterproof and guarantee your watch the day it’s brought in. We have a certified watchmaker and a full watch service and repair facility on premises. Open seven days a week. *Not affiliated with Rolex, USA.
Tinton Falls
PURR’N POOCH PET RESORT
86 West Gilbert Street, (just off the GSP exit 109), (732) 842-4949
www.purrnpooch.com
Please refer to our ad on page 51 and our listing on page 49.
Purr’n Pooch is an exceptional pet care resort with 50 years of experience, state-of-the art facilities, and grounds uniquely designed for the comfort
and care of your pet. Purr’n Pooch understands that no two pets are alike and celebrates the uniqueness of each guest by offering a wide variety of services and amenities that include lodging, daycare, catteries, spas, grooming, training, swim parks, pet massage, individual and group play, aquatic exercise at our Wall Township location, and special guest services. With two central Jersey Shore locations in Tinton Falls and Wall Township, Purr’n Pooch is staffed 24 hours a day and open 365 days a year for your peace of mind and the enjoyment of your pets. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Wall Township
PURR’N POOCH PET RESORT
2424 State Highway 35 (1/4 mile south of the Manasquan Circle) (732) 528-8100
www.purrnpooch.com
Please refer to our ad on page 51 and our listing on page 49.
“Tis the Season” by H. Hargrove
H. Hargrove Studio, Toms River, NJ
STRIPED BASS CATCH & RELEASE
Suggestions to Help Boost Survival Rates
DO
DO cradle the fish, with one hand under the belly and one under its shoulder.
DO resuscitate the bass by pulling it through the water by the lower lip. Stripers have no teeth. Never move it backwards. Only forward or figure eight.
DO get the fish back quickly! Try to limit air exposure to 15 seconds.
DO use barbless hooks for quick release.
DO use circle hooks when baitfishing
DO release the fish without taking it out of the water if possible.
DO leave deep hooks inside fish. Cut leader off close...it is better than digging.
DON’T
DON’T lift fish by the mouth. This can cause serious internal injury.
DON’T release without first resuscitating.
DON’T kick a fish. You will damage internal organs.
DON’T drop the fish. Dropping causes serious injury.
DON’T touch the red gill rakers. They are the equivalent of human lungs.
DON’T gaff a fish you want to release.
Don’t lift fish by the tail.
DON’T drag the fish across dry sand.
HANDLE ALL FISH WITH CARE & RESPECT
STORES & SHOPS continued from page 49
▼Art Galleries
ANCHOR & PALETTE GALLERY P.O. Box 96, Bay Head, NJ 08742
info@anchorandpalette.com www.dicklabonte.com
Please refer to our ad on page 51. The Anchor & Palette Gallery, Bay Head is online! All of the Dick LaBonté prints, representing thirty years of painting, are on display and available for sale at www.dicklabonte.com. Each painting on the site has a story and a detailed description, a combination of actual historical facts and LaBonté’s creative imagination. Some of the writings are from the artist’s book, Dick LaBonté - Paintings of the Jersey Shore and More (published by Jersey Shore Publications - see page 8.) The rest has been added based on several books about the Jersey Shore and other research. To quote the artist, “When you look at my pictures, you are not supposed to wear a serious expression. You are expected to smile, perhaps wistfully and with a sense of loss. Often while I paint, I laugh aloud. You have my permission to do likewise.” So please visit the website and enjoy memories of the Jersey Shore along with a little history. If you want to order, just click on the button under the print. Or, if you would prefer to make arrangements to pick up the print from one of our galleries, all of the information is on the website and in the ad in this magazine. Be sure to ask about Dick LaBonté originals currently available!
ANGRY FISH GALLERY
624 Bay Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, (848) 241-2744
www.angryfishgallery.com
JERSEY SHORE MOMENTS
Fine Art Gallery & Custom Framing 209 Highway 71, Manasquan (732) 223-1334
www.jerseyshoremoments.com
Please refer to the ad for “Anchor & Palette Gallery” on page 51.
PICTURE PERFECT GALLERY
1307 Route 37 East, (732) 929-3636 www.pictureperfectgalleryand framing.com
gilded frames. Protect your art or needlework with museum glass for clear, UV protection. Restoration of paintings and frames and calligraphy services are available. Let us enhance your special envelopes with calligraphy. We look forward to seeing you Tuesday through Saturday.
Pets
PURR’N POOCH PET RESORT
86 West Gilbert Street (just off the GSP exit 109) Tinton Falls, (732) 842-4949
2424 State Highway 35 (1/4 mile south of the Manasquan Circle) Wall Township, (732) 528-8100
www.purrnpooch.com
Please refer to our ad on page 51 and our listings on page 49.
PURR’N POOCH FOUNDATION FOR ANIMALS
P.O. Box 7352, Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
Email: SaveLives@PurrnPooch Foundation.org www.purrnpoochfoundation.org
Please refer to our ad on the inside back cover.
Too often we hear about the millions of unwanted animals killed in shelters across the country each year. Fortunately, there are selfless, passionate individuals quietly saving lives—hands-on, one animal at a time. With pure hearts, boundless energy and few resources, they work day in and day out to rescue animals in distress, heal their wounds, restore their confidence, and teach them to trust and love again. The Purr’n Pooch Foundation for Animals is committed to helping these unsung heroes pursue their missions. Regardless of species served, the Foundation provides financial support and educational resources to non-profit, no-kill animal rescue organizations. Visit purrnpoochfoundation.org for more information.
Private School
ST. PETER SCHOOL
415 Atlantic Avenue Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 892-1260
Supported By:
Please refer to our ad on page 48. Our gallery offers originals, serigraphs, giclees, etchings, limited editions, and prints. We represent nationally known artists, as well as local artists Ann Hayes, Helen Harris, Theresa Troise Heidel, Sandra Blostein, Jay Blostein, Bernie Hubert, Mary Jo Austin, Lorraine Dey, and Virginia Perle. Local photographers include Tom Lynch, Joseph Imbesi, Frank Parisi, and Marc F. Picture Perfect has won multiple international framing awards since opening in 1980. Mirrors, needlework, flags, sports jerseys, medals, photos, diplomas, composites, invitations—whatever you’re framing, we make it special. Artistic touches, French mats, hand-cut or hand-painted mats, and painted bevels are our specialties. Employees are certified and experienced. A huge frame selection ranges from simple woods and metals to eco-friendly moulding to hand carved and hand
www.stpschool.org
Please refer to our ad on the inside front cover.
Considered by many to be one of the finest private schools at the Jersey Shore, St. Peter School has been teaching Respect, Reverence, and Responsibility in a challenging academic setting since 1923. Serving students in grades PreK-8, the school draws from southern Monmouth and northern Ocean counties, with busing from Brick and Point Pleasant. St. Peter School offers a fully integrated STREAM curriculum, an advanced math program, and includes second language instruction for all. The school also offers a Middle School Enrichment Academy with community partnerships. The school has a new Science and Technology Lab, and a new Media Center. SMARTBoard technology and computers are
Proper Holding Technique Resuscitate Before Releasing
Striped Bass images: Bob Povovics & Tom Lynch
in each classroom, and the students use iPads, Chromebooks, and Google Apps for Education. There is full day kindergarten, Pre-K, an aftercare program, after school clubs, and Varsity/JV sports. St. Peter School is accredited by Cognia. In 2016, St. Peter School was named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, one of only 279 public and 50 private schools across the country receiving this honor. Designating it as one of the best private schools in the nation, Saint Peter School received the award for being an Exemplary High Performing School. In 2020, it was named a New Jersey State School of Character. Please call to schedule a tour or for more information.
Realtor
DEBORAH (SMITH) VALENTE
RE/MAX Bay Point, Realtors
526 Bay Avenue
Point Pleasant Beach
Cell: (908) 278-2758
Office: (732) 899-3338
Email: dvalente@jerseyshoreliving.com www.jerseyshoreliving.com
Please refer to our ad on page 35. Deborah (Smith) Valente is a professional sales associate for RE/MAX Bay Point, Realtors. A lifelong resident of the Jersey Shore, Debbie possesses an intimate knowledge of the local market and offers an exceptional level of service and professionalism. Debbie utilizes her marketing background to identify the unique value of a property in order to effectively develop a successful sales strategy. The RE/MAX Bay Point, Realtors affiliation provides extensive internet presence, as well as access to the finest marketing materials available in the industry. If you are contemplating buying, selling, or renting, or would like to discuss market values, new FEMA regulations, contractor referrals, or interest rates, please contact Debbie.
Taxi & Limousine Service
BRIGGS TRANSPORTATION
1104 Richmond Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 892-0465 or (732) 892-1313 www.briggstransportation.com
Please refer to our ad on page 48. Call Briggs—your local and experienced transportation company who has been servicing the Jersey Shore for more than 60 years! Serving Point Pleasant Beach, Point Pleasant Boro, Bay Head, and Mantoloking as well as northern Ocean and southern Monmouth counties. Briggs will take you anywhere you want to go! Reliable, safe, private car service and consistent, competitive pricing for all of your transportation needs. Briggs offers a fleet of black cars, vans for shuttle or large groups, local taxi service, and wheelchair accessible vehicles for non-emergency medical transportation. Service to all airports and RR terminals too! Credit cards accepted. Gift cards available. Find us on Facebook and Twitter. u
Water
Water
Indoor
Indoor
Training
Training
Cattery
Cattery
Shuttle
Dick LaBonté Prints Available at:
Jolly Tar • 56 Bridge Ave, Bay Head •
“Cocktails At The White House”
by Dick LaBonté
Dick and Mary Palazzo and daughters Betsy and Koren thank you for choosing Purr‘n Pooch as your pet’s home away from home.
The Fall Run
Striped Bass Fishing on the Jersey Shore in Autumn
Late fall is a special time of year for New Jersey surf anglers. Massive schools of bait fish and striped bass migrate south through Jersey Shore waters, often passing right through the surf zone resulting in world class fishing action.
An angler works the surf zone during an epic blitz in Monmouth County.
Photography by Tom Lynch
When the water temperature drops into the 58 to 48-degree range, the fall run frenzy begins. Off Manasquan Inlet, this usually happens around the first week of November and lasts until the second week in December.
The typical scenario for a great fall run involves several elements falling into place. First, vast schools of baitfish, such as menhaden (bunker), sand eels, and bay anchovies, must gather in the near shore waters as they undertake their own southerly migrations.
The second factor involves schools of hungry stripers—some as large as fifty pounds—locating these baitfish in close to shore and then launching chaotic feeding attacks.
Often referred to as a “blitz,” these sustained attacks can result in baitfish storming right onto dry sand, with attacking striped bass right behind them. These blitzes can last many hours and are arguably the most exciting moments of the fall run.
Word travels quickly in the fishing world, and anglers rush to the hotspots to get in on the action, resulting in crowds and general fishing mayhem.
Every year, the run is different. Some years, the fish barely show; but happily for anglers, the past few years have been spectacular, with over a month of good to great fishing. Most of the better striper action is centered in Ocean and Monmouth counties,
with sporadic action on New Jersey’s southern shores.
Presented on the following pages are images of the fall run by Tom Lynch. Lynch is a professional sport fishing and coastal lifestyle photographer and is one of the most published outdoor photographers in the northeast. Lynch, who resides in Seaside Park, focuses on New Jersey’s coastal region for his photographic subjects, which include sport fishing, wildlife, waves, landscapes, and seascapes.
He is also the owner of the Angry Fish Gallery in Point Pleasant Beach. The gallery, like his work, has its roots in the waves, dunes, and sandbars of the Jersey Shore.
continued on page 54
Above: Striped bass attacking a school of peanut bunker (juvenile menhaden).
Right: The dark water visible in this image is actually a massive school of peanut bunker just off the beach.
FALL RUN, continued from page 55
Opposite
Above: Peanut bunker charging the beach as they flee attacking striped bass.
page: A large striped bass crashes the surface as it feeds on menhaden.
Opposite page, top: On a nice fall day, Professor John Tiedemann fishes for stripers along a lonely stretch of
Opposite page, bottom: When the fishing gets good, word spreads quickly. Fishermen rush to the beach in hopes of catching a big bass.
Above: Striped bass cruising in a wave. The stripers are swimming on the left side of the wave.
beach.
Opposite page: Rich Sistad takes care as he releases a striped bass in the surf. Proper handling and release of these fish helps insure that they swim away strong. (Please refer to page 50 for more information on catching and releasing striped bass.)
Left: This striper was caught by Professor John Tiedemann on a large wooden lure and was safely released moments later.
Below: Tom Palma landed this bison sized striped bass on a deserted stretch of New Jersey beach. He unhooked the trophy sized fish in the wash, and a wave quickly took her back to sea.
You can view and purchase Tom Lynch’s work at Angry Fish Gallery or online at www.angryfishgallery.com. The gallery is located at 624 Bay Avenue in Point Pleasant Beach. It is open Thursday - Sunday, noon to 5:00 PM and usually later on Friday and Saturday evenings. Off hour appointments are available. For more information, call (848) 241-2744.
Holiday Shopping & Dining Guide
The Jersey Shore Chamber of Commerce is your Business Growth Solutions Center. JOIN US and ride our wave to your success! Members enjoy networking opportunities including weekly, well-attended breakfasts, informative business seminars, tasteful after hour dinner-and-cocktail events and more.
P.O. Box 1305, Wall • (732) 280-8800 www.JSCCnj.com
“Christmas in Bay Head” Give a print for Christmas! Dick LaBonté prints are available at galleries and online. The Jolly Tar 56 Bridge Avenue, Bay Head (732) 892-0223
Jersey Shore Moments 209 Highway 71, Manasquan (732) 223-1334 www.dicklabonte.com
“Midwinter,” etching by Barbara Pihos
Gifts of art, photo composites or memorabilia are picture perfect. Let our certified picture framers design a special memory.
Exceptional pet care facilities, with building and grounds uniquely designed for the comfort and care of your pet. Boarding, grooming, daycare, training, transportation, pet sitting. Mon-Fri 7am-7pm; Sat & Sun 8am-5pm.
86 Gilbert St. W., Tinton Falls, (732) 842-4949 2424 Hwy. 35, Wall Township, (732) 528-8100 www.purrnpooch.com
Joe Leone’s Catering is the culmination of many years of development & training. As the premiere Italian culinary experience at the Jersey Shore, we present outstanding a la carte catering for pickup or delivery. Please allow us to make the food for your next catered affair memorable.
510 Rt. 35 S., Pt. Pleasant Bch., (732) 701-0001 Catering: 650 Cincinnati Ave., Pt. Pleasant Bch. (732) 701-0001 ext. 4 www.joeleones.com
1307 Route 37 East, Toms River (732) 929-3636 www.pictureperfectgalleryandframing.com
730 Airport Road, Lakewood, (732) 905-6888 www.shoreshotpistolrange.com
www.briggstransportation.com
www.charliesofbayhead.com
We buy Gold, Diamonds, Coins, and High-grade Watches. Highest prices paid! GIA, AGS, and EGL Certified Diamonds at wholesale prices! Pre-owned Rolex watches. We broker all major watch brands. “Trusted in business for over 40 years.”
Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach (732) 892-3535
DINING OUT & FOOD
▲Restaurants & Nightlife
Ocean & Monmouth Counties
B2 BISTRO & BAR
www.b2bistro.com
Red Bank: 141 Shrewsbury Avenue, (732) 268-8555
Bayville: 125 Bayview Avenue, (732) 269-3000 Point Pleasant Beach: 709 Arnold Avenue, (732) 295-0709
Toms River: 1250 Hooper Avenue, (732) 797-2570
North Brunswick: 230 Washington Place, (732) 297-3803
West Reading, PA: 701 Reading Avenue, (610) 898-4314
JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS
www.JerseyMikes.com
MANHATTAN BAGEL
www.ManhattanBagel.com
Bayville: 333 Route 9, Baywick Plaza (732) 237-0055
Brick: 702 Route 70, Kohl’s Shopping Center, (732) 477-7443
Freehold: 562 Route 33, Park Plaza Shopping Center, (732) 294-9500
Toms River/Silverton: 1822a Hooper Avenue, Stella Plaza, (732) 864-0200
Toms River/Fischer Blvd.: 860 Fischer Boulevard, Bay Plaza, (732) 929-3998
Toms River/Rt. 37: 14 East Route 37 (732) 240-0177
Wall Township: 1993 Highway 35 Allaire Plaza, (732) 974-3998
WINDMILL
www.windmillhotdogs.com
Belmar: 1200 River Road, Belmar, (732) 681-9628
Long Branch/West End: 586 Ocean Boulevard, (732) 229-9863
North Long Branch: Ursula Plaza, 444 Ocean Boulevard, (732) 870-6098
Ocean Grove: 18 South Main Street
Red Bank: 22 Bridge Avenue, (732) 747-5958
Bay Head
CHARLIE’S OF BAY HEAD
72 Bridge Avenue, (732) 295-1110 www.charliesofbayhead.com
Please refer to our ad on page 65. Charlie’s Of Bay Head is the perfect yearround spot to meet family or friends to enjoy a Contemporary American menu showcasing seasonal and local foods. Relax at their large bar serving twenty craft beers on tap, hand crafted cocktails, and premium wines from their extensive list. Charlie’s bar features several wide-screen TVs for all major sporting events. Sunset views over Twilight Lake can be enjoyed from their first and second floor dining rooms as well as on an outdoor dining deck. Or cozy up to the fireplace in the lounge area next to the bar. For special occasions—showers, birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations—Charlie’s second-floor dining room offers a private, upscale ambience for up to seventy-five guests. Also on this floor is their state-of-the-art wine room, featuring an Old World barrel-vaulted brick ceiling and custom, temperature-controlled wine storage cabinets, which is available for tastings and smaller private events for up to thirty guests. Some of the dishes featured on Charlie’s extensive menu are Atlantic seafood and East Coast Oysters, as well as local specialty food products. Additionally, Charlie’s features multiple cuts of Prime Angus Beef and a variety of poultry, fish, and game as well as vegetarian options. Homemade pastries and ice cream made on site by their award winning pastry chef will make a sweet ending to a sublime Shore dining experience. And remember a Gift Card to Charlie’s makes the perfect gift. Visit their website at www.charliesofbayhead.com for complete menus and event information.
THE GRENVILLE HOTEL & RESTAURANT 345 Main Avenue, (732) 892-3100 www.thegrenville.com
ANCHOR TAVERN
713 Main Street, (732) 280-2266 www.anchortavernnj.com
BRANDL 703 Belmar Plaza, (732) 280-7501 www.brandlrestaurant.com
KLEIN’S FISH MARKET, WATERSIDE CAFÉ & TIKI BAR 708 River Road, (732) 681-1177 www.kleinsfish.com
MARINA GRILLE 905 Highway 35, (732) 894-3211 www.marinagrillenj.com
Brick
BEACON 70 799 Route 70, (848) 232-4235 www.beacon70.com
MANERA’S 950 Cedar Bridge Avenue, (732) 451-1111 www.manerasrestaurant.com
VILLA VITTORIA
2700 Hooper Avenue, (732) 920-1550 www.villavittoria.com
WINDWARD TAVERN
292 Princeton Avenue, (732) 892-WIND (9463) www.windwardtavern.com
Brielle
JIMMY’S CUCINA
301 Union Avenue, (732) 528-5566 www.jimmyscucina.com
MARINER’S COVE RESTAURANT 712 Union Avenue, (732) 528-6023
“October Shores” by Jill DeFelice Tuckerton, NJ
WAYPOINT 622 622 Green Avenue, (732) 528-6665 www.waypoint622.com
Freehold
THE CABIN RESTAURANT 984 Route 33, (732) 462-3090 www.thecabinnj.com
ESCONDIDO MEXICAN CUISINE & TEQUILA BAR 402 West Main Street, (732) 577-0200 www.escondidonj.com
BEACH BURRITO 411 Boardwalk, (732) 295-2686 www.chippysboardwalk.com
BERRITAZZA CAFÉ 506 Arnold Avenue, (732) 206-6334 www.berritazza.com
THE BOILING POINT 500 Washington Avenue, (732) 202-6664 www.the-boilingpoint.com
BROADWAY BAR & GRILL 106 Randall Avenue, (732) 899-3272 www.facebook.com/thebroadwaybarand grill
MOORE’S TAVERN & SPORTS BAR 402 West Main Street, (732) 863-0555 www.moorestavern.com
Lakewood
EAGLE’S NEST PUB AT EAGLE RIDGE GOLF CLUB 2 Augusta Boulevard, (732) 901-4900 www.EagleRidgeGolf.com
Lincroft
CHARLIE’S OF LINCROFT 700 Newman Springs Road, (732) 812-4500 www.charliesoflincroft.com
Manasquan
GREEN PLANET COFFEE SHOP 78 Main Street, (732) 722-8197 www.greenplanetcoffee.com
Monroe Township
BAKER’S AMERICAN BAR & GRILLE 801 Route 33, (609) 443-6600 www.bakersamerican.com
Point Pleasant
CLARK’S DOCKSIDE BAR & GRILL 847 Arnold Avenue, (732) 899-1111 or (732) 899-5559 www.docksidebargrill.com
THE IDLE HOUR 2600 Route 88, (732) 899-2102 www.facebook.com/TheIdleHourNJ
Point Pleasant Beach
(732) 899-5759 www.5oceancafeandboutique.com AMENDMENT 21 521 Arnold Avenue, (732) 295-9619
CHIPPY’S 411 Boardwalk, (732) 295-2686 www.chippysboardwalk.com
FRANKIE’S BAR & GRILL 414 Richmond Avenue, (732) 892-6000 www.frankiesnj.com
FUNNEL CAKE & PRETZEL CO. 411 Boardwalk, (732) 295-2686 www.chippysboardwalk.com
JAKE’S CRAB HOUSE 312 Boardwalk, (732) 892-0097 www.tikibar.com
JIMMY’S CUCINA 201 Broadway, (732) 206-6040 www.jimmyscucina.com
THE LOBSTER SHANTY 83 Channel Drive, (732) 899-6700 www.thelobstershantynj.com
LUIGI’S FAMOUS PIZZA 500 Washington Avenue, (732) 899-4848 www.luigisfamouspizzapointpleasant.com
MARTELL’S TIKI BAR & LOBSTER HOUSE 308-310 Boardwalk, (732) 892-0131 www.tikibar.com
POINT LOBSTER BAR & GRILL 521 Arnold Avenue, (732) 475-7363 www.pointlobsterbarandgrill.com
POINT LOBSTER CO. 1 St. Louis Avenue, (732) 892-1718 www.pointlobsterco.com
RED’S LOBSTER POT 57 Inlet Drive, (732) 295-6622 www.redslobsterpot.com
ROUND DOUGH WITH A HOLE 400 Richmond Avenue, (732) 899-0750 www.rounddoughwithahole.com
Point Pleasant Beach
Shiela E Photography
SEABASE LOUNGE AT THE WHITE SANDS
1205 Ocean Avenue (located in
The White Sands Oceanfront Resort & Spa) Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 899-3370 www.TheWhiteSands.com
THE SHRIMP BOX
75 Inlet Drive, (732) 899-1637 www.shrimpbox.com
SINNER’S STEAKHOUSE
20 Inlet Drive, (848) 232-1672 www.sinnerssteakhouse.com
STEWART’S DRIVE-IN 63 Broadway, (732) 295-2722
THE WHARFSIDE & PATIO BAR
101 Channel Drive, (732) 892-9100 www.wharfsidenj.com www.patiobarnj.com
Sea Girt
FRATELLO’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
810 The Plaza, (732) 974-8833 www.fratellosnj.com
THE PARKER HOUSE
290 1st Avenue, (732) 449-0442 www.parkerhousenj.com
ROD’S TAVERN
507 Washington Boulevard, (732) 449-2020 www.rodstavernnj.com
SCARBOROUGH FAIR
1414 Meetinghouse Road, (732) 223-6658 www.sfseagirt.com
Spring Lake
AMELIA’S BY THE SEA
The Grand Victorian Hotel, 1505 Ocean Avenue, (732) 769-5700 www.grandvictorianspringlake.com
THE BREAKERS ON THE OCEAN 1507 Ocean Avenue, (732) 449-7700 www.breakershotel.com
Toms River
IHOP
178 Route 37 East, (732) 349-4555 941 Route 37 West (at BJ’s Center) (732) 286-2083
NATURAL FOODS GENERAL STORE & VITAMINS
675 Batchelor Street, Grocery & Take-Out: (732) 240-0024
Vitamins: (732) 240-9320 www.naturalfoodsgeneralstore.com
RIVER LADY CRUISES
One Robbins Parkway, (732) 349-8664 www.riverlady.com
TERESA’ OSAKA ASIAN BISTRO 1801 Route 37, (732) 929-3900 www.teresasosakatomsriver.com
WATER STREET BAR & GRILLE
4 Robbins Parkway, (732) 240-4800 www.bakerswaterstreet.com
▲Banquet Facilities & Catering
BURKE’S MARKET & FINE SPIRITS
534 Main Avenue, Bay Head (732) 899-0068
www.burkesmarket.com
CLARK’S LANDING YACHT CLUB
847 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant (732) 899-5559
www.clarkslandingweddings.com
JOE LEONE’S CATERING (Pick-Up Location)
650 Cincinnati Avenue Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 701-0001 ext. 4
www.joeleones.com
Please refer to our ad on page 65 and our listings on page 66.
Joe Leone’s Catering enjoys a proud tradition of award winning, off premise, á la carte style Catering Services within the social and corporate markets of Monmouth and Ocean counties. Pickup available. Planning services include: menu selection, item description and specification, portioning recommendations, item customization, and referrals for rental and staffing services. Let us put our years of experience to work for you. Exceptional food deserves exceptional personalized service and planning. Contact our Catering Office today and allow our knowledgeable representatives the privilege to assist you. Visit us at our Point Pleasant Beach retail location or by phone to plan your next occasion or holiday event. Our team looks forward to serving you!
THE MILL LAKESIDE MANOR
1309 Ocean Road, Spring Lake Heights (732) 449-1800
www.themilllakesidemanor.com
THE SPRING LAKE MANOR
415 Highway 71, Spring Lake Heights (732) 449-6630
www.springlakemanor.com
THE SUNSET BALLROOM
81-83 Channel Drive, Point Pleasant Beach (732) 899-6700
www.thesunsetballroom.com
THE WHITE SANDS BANQUETS & CATERING
The White Sands Oceanfront Resort & Spa 1205 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach (732) 899-3370 ext. 1731
www.TheWhiteSands.com
Candy Store
CANDY CABANA
AT BURKE’S MARKET & FINE SPIRITS
33 Mount Street, Bay Head, (732) 899-0068 www.burkesmarket.com
Coffee Shops
5 OCEAN CAFÉ AND BOUTIQUE
5 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach (732) 899-5759 www.5oceancafeandboutique.com
BERRITAZZA CAFÉ
506 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach (732) 206-6334 www.berritazza.com
GREEN PLANET COFFEE SHOP
78 Main Street, Manasquan, (732) 722-8197 www.greenplanetcoffee.com
ROUND DOUGH WITH A HOLE
400 Richmond Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 899-0750 www.rounddoughwithahole.com
Gourmet & Specialty Food Markets
BAY HEAD CHEESE SHOP & BOTTLES TOO 91 Bridge Avenue, Bay Head (732) 892-7585
www.bayheadcheeseshopandbottlestoo.com
BURKE’S MARKET & FINE SPIRITS
534 Main Avenue, Bay Head (732) 899-0068 www.burkesmarket.com Email: eat@burkesmarket.com
DELICIOUS ORCHARDS
320 Route 34, Colts Neck, (732) 462-1989 www.deliciousorchardsnj.com
JOE LEONE’S CENTRO MARKET 113 Main Street, Manasquan (732) 722-8512
www.joeleones.com
Please refer to our ad on page 65 and our listings on page 66.
Joe Leone’s Centro Market is a scaled reflection of our flagship store, Joe Leone’s Italian Specialties in Point Pleasant Beach. Centro Market is a satellite source for traditional Italian specialty items, homemade breads, handmade mozzarella, gourmet sandwiches, and restaurant-quality prepared dishes—all produced fresh daily. Built for convenience, Centro Market offers an array of choose-and-go sandwiches, salads, soups, sauces, dips, cheeses, and desserts for everything from the family meal to delighting guests. Handcrafted Gift Baskets & Gift Boxes and Gift Cards available. Open seven days. We invite you to visit us in person or always online for an unforgettable experience!
JOE LEONE’S ITALIAN SPECIALTIES
510 Route 35 South Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 701-0001
www.joeleones.com
Please refer to our ad on page 65 and our listings on page 66.
Proud to call Point Pleasant Beach home for over twenty years, experience the Premier Italian Specialty Destination at the Jersey Shore! Driven by a passion for culinary excellence and a commitment to quality service, our Point Pleasant Beach location is an award-winning Italian Specialty foods retailer, offering an expansive array of imported gourmet retail products, custom-built sandwiches, sauces, soups, salads, imported as well as domestic cheeses and ornate homewares. Produced fresh daily from scratch, our homemade breads, handmade fresh mozzarella, and restaurant quality prepared dishes represent the foundation of our proud reputation. Custom Gift Baskets, Handcrafted Gift Boxes, and Gift Cards are available for any occasion. Be our guest to experience our vision for excellence and witness our tradition of commitment to customer satisfaction and outstanding products. Challenge your senses, embrace the experience! Open seven days and always online at JoeLeones.com.
MOLLY BOARDS CHARCUTERIE
627 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach (732) 206-7618 www.mollyboards.com
MUELLER’S BAKERY
80 Bridge Avenue, Bay Head (732) 892-0442 www.muellersbakery.com
NATURAL FOODS GENERAL STORE & VITAMINS
675 Batchelor Street, Toms River Grocery & Take-Out: (732) 240-0024 Vitamins: (732) 240-9320 www.naturalfoodsgeneralstore.com
Ice Cream & Gelato
BERRITAZZA CAFÉ
506 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach (732) 206-6334 www.berritazza.com
BURKE’S MARKET & FINE SPIRITS
534 Main Avenue, Bay Head (732) 899-0068 www.burkesmarket.com
Seafood Markets
KLEIN’S FISH MARKET, WATERSIDE CAFÉ & TIKI BAR
708 River Road, Belmar, (732) 681-1177 www.kleinsfish.com
POINT LOBSTER COMPANY
One St. Louis Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, (732) 892-1718 www.pointlobsterco.com u
The Glimmer Glass Bridge, Manasquan.
The Jersey Shore’s Premier Family Vacation Resort Has
• Fabulous Shopping & Antiquing
•
•
• Mile-Long White Sand Beach
• Landmark Boardwalk & Rides
• Party & Charter Boat Fishing
10-13: 6th Annual Inlet Tug
10-19: Annual Beach Sweeps
10-24: Ladies Night Out
11-2: Beers On The Boards
11-29: Annual Tree Lighting & Santa’s Arrival Dec.: dates t.b.a.: Breakfasts and Brunches with Santa and Free Horse & Carriage Rides!
JERSEY SHORE LENDS A PAW TO ANIMALS IN
Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce
