Wait, it’s August already? Can you believe it?
This issue explores the best pet-friendly boutiques and spaces in Asbury Bark (sorry, I couldn’t help myself!). Fun fact, in July 2020 we lost power for over five days, like a lot of other Monmouth residents. It was during a heatwave and we temporarily moved into the Berkeley Hotel, with our cat Rumi, pictured here as my work colleague, or perhaps boss. Having a petfriendly space was a real life-saver, we didn’t want to leave her alone in a hot house. She sat in the window and enjoyed the view of the ocean.
My mother was visiting from Northern Ireland last month, and it’s always fun to experience the Jersey Shore with fresh eyes. She will walk for hours and return with stories of all the folks she’s charmed on her travels. If you were lucky enough to have been stopped by a five-foot-nothing super-cheerful, Derry-accented version of me, that was her.
Over 15 years ago, when I lived in Brooklyn before I was cool enough to have discovered Asbury Park, my mum and dad made a bee-line for The Stone Pony to see some shows while they were visiting. My father had a knack for finding and supporting independent artists. Growing up our home was filled with music, he loved the big legends like Bruce (who they first saw at Slane Castle in 1985), and talented working artists who craft a life out of their passion for music. This month, I am particularly excited about our conversation with Southside Johnny, a local treasure with a storied and unique career.
With Summer Stage and the SeaHearNow festival around the corner, we’re spoiled for music on the Jersey Shore. Hope to see you out there!
CHRISTINE MCKENNA-TIRELLA, PUBLISHER @ASBURYPARKCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Christine McKenna-Tirella christine.tirella@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Svetlana Blasucci | svetlana.blasucci@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Svetlana Blasucci, Ed Condran
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Svetlana Blasucci, Bob Schultz
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
city scene
1: DJ at the new Salvation Rooftop at The Asbury Hotel 2: Enjoy a snack on the boardwalk at the most iconic pinball spot in asbury park 3: VEO have officially arrived in Asbury Park 4: JBJ Soul Kitchen, at the June Business Expo at Jumping Brook 5:
8: Lily Lough Vendor at AsburyFest 2024 9: Yappy Hour at the Wonder Bar 10: The view from the Asbury Hotel Rooftop 11: Asbury Park Carnival 12: Sunset in Asbury 13: Grab yourself a fresh smoothie to stay cool from Juice Basin in Asbury 14: @Wreckyourpallet During AsburyFest 2024
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business monthly
Asbury Bazaar Returns September- Still Seeking Vendors
Asbury Bazaar, in its 10th year, celebrates local makers, music, art, & local summer in Asbury Park. The Fall Bazaar is taking place in the Grand Arcade at the historic Convention Hall on Saturday & Sunday, September 28 & 29, and at The Asbury Hotel, on Sunday, September 29, from noon to 5 pm. Asbury Park Fall Bazaar is indoors, free for all ages, and pet-friendly. Vendors can apply at https://www. asburyparkbazaar.com/when
Photography by Asbury Park Bazaar
Free Floats for Veterans at True Rest, Ocean
True Float Ocean is proud to announce on the 11th of every month they offer Veterans, active duty military, Police officers, Firemen, and first responders complimentary 60-minute floats. Float therapy can provide pain relief, boost immunity, help with athletic recovery, and provide deeper, more restful sleep. True Float dedicates one pod room for those complimentary floats, call 732-477-1515 to check availability and reserve a space, as this offer often books up in advance.
Photography by Scott DeLorenzo
New Hour opens store in Downtown Asbury Park
New Hour ™ is a premium men’s retail and online fashion store that aims to provide the modern man with an exceptional shopping experience. Its mission is to curate a collection of high-quality clothing and accessories that exude style, confidence, and personal expression. Now open at a brick-and-mortar location: 527 Bangs Ave, Suite 103, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, shop online at https://newhourclothing.com/
Photography by New Hour
ARTICLE BY EDWARD CONDRAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB SCHULTZ
asburyjukes SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY AND THE
AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE ASBURY PARK SOUND
Iconic and eccentric are often mutually exclusive terms in the world of contemporary music. However, those adjectives perfectly describe Southside Johnny Lyon.
It’s not surprising to see the charismatic singer-songwriter tending to his garden clad in underwear while relaxing at his Ocean Grove home. And then there is the other side of Lyon engaging audiences belting out sing-along songs that are infectious but are filled with grit.
“I do things a little differently than everybody else,” Lyon said. “There was once a time when that was a good thing. We’ve always been true to the music. It’s not about chasing trends. It’s about being ourselves.”
The latter comes from those early years in Asbury Park, where Lyon formed his infallible band, the Asbury Jukes, which came together a half-century ago. Lyon, 75, and his band have enjoyed an enviable career serving up solid, well-constructed pop-rock tunes.
The soulful-horn-driven group provides escape through relatable songs, such as the hook-laden but deep “This Time it’s For Real,” “I Don’t Want to Go Home” and “Love on the Wrong Side of Town.”
“It’s been a good run,” Lyon said. “I’m thankful that’s the way it is because I don’t know what else I would do.”
Perhaps the Neptune native could have been a stand-up comic since the under heralded entertainer is unique and amusing.
“There’s nobody like Southside,” Lyon’s pal and occasional on-stage foil Gary U.S. Bonds said. “He’s hilarious.”
That was always evident when Lyon held court, often with Bonds, during Bobby Bandiera’s legendary benefit shows at Red Bank’s Count Basie Theater during the aughts.
“I enjoy performing,” Lyon said. “I had fun at those shows and still have a good time every time I step onstage.”
Lyon, like Bruce Springsteen left the area, the Boss for Los Angeles and Southside for Nashville, but each returned to his roots. Lyon has a special affinity for his hometown of Ocean Grove.
“I’ve always loved Ocean Grove and Asbury Park,” Lyon said. “It’s a special part of the country.” It’s a place where Lyon can be himself and that’s important personally and professionally. “I do things a little differently than everybody else,” Lyon said. “There was once a time when that was a good thing. We’ve always been true to the music. It’s not about chasing trends. It’s about being ourselves.”
SILVERBALL ARCADE
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI
WHERE THE KIDS COME BACK
Step right up, kids, and get ready to enter a world of flashing lights, bouncing balls, and nonstop excitement! Welcome to the magical realm of the Silverball Retro Arcade on the boardwalk, where every machine promises a thrilling adventure. Whether you’re aiming for the high score, triggering multiball mayhem, or just enjoying the cheerful “ding” and “clack” sounds, there’s endless fun to be had. With over 170 classic
and modern pinball and arcade games, your entire family will have a blast at Silverball Retro Arcade!
We had the pleasure of meeting Senior Vice President Patricia Barber, who shared the heartwarming story of how this arcade began 16 years ago when co-founder Robert Ilvento’s daughter was diagnosed with autism.
Patricia told us they call Silverball a beast, because of how it can overstimulate in a
Senior Vice President Patricia Barber
“For many of us, it’s more than a game—it’s a passion”
good way. It all began in 2009, starting humbly in a record store basement on Cookman. A year later, they moved to a new spot, where actual weddings, parties for all ages, and corporate events are hosted.
The venue has seen countless first dates, with many couples returning to take engagement photos. They even expanded to a second location in Delray Beach, a two-story marvel. Admission is based on time spent enjoying our most popular games, from the classic 1950 Knock Out to the latest Elton John machine.
The best part of this all? Every day is different. What was meant to be a one-year stint turned into eight years, during which she became the GM amidst the pandemic, now running the entire company. As a multitask addict, she juggles accounting, HR, marketing, and hiring with the support of their amazing team. Many kids who started working here return in their 30s, drawn by the vibrant atmosphere that makes every day feel like a party. Transitioning from journalism and private investigation to hospitality was unexpected, but it grew on her.
On the off season competitive pinball tournaments are hosted from September to October. Whether it’s summer or winter, this place holds a special charm, especially during a winter beach visit. I asked Patricia if she plays pinball? She responded: “For many of us, it’s
more than a game—it’s a passion. We hear the sounds of pinball even at home. One of my staff even convinced me to get a matching tattoo.” Summer is a busy time for this spot. In the winter, our team shrinks to 12-15 dedicated kids and adults, but our hours remain 11am-9pm, ensuring the fun never stops.
The Silverball Retro Arcade also hosts numerous events each week, from birthday parties to summer camps, science classes exploring electronics, to charity fundraisers like the Silverball Gala, which supports groups like the Arc of Monmouth and Autism Speaks. You can even book your next wedding in the museum. Doesn’t that sound like a ball!
SILVER BALL ARCADE MUSEUM
1000 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 https://www.silverballmuseum.com/asbury-park/
HOURS:
Friday11 AM–12 AM Saturday10 AM–12 AM Sunday10 AM–12 AM Monday10 AM–12 AM Tuesday10 AM–12 AM Wednesday10 AM–12 AM Thursday11 AM–9 PM
SALVATION rooftop
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI
Experience the epitome of cool at The Asbury, Asbury Park’s trendiest and most dog-friendly hotel. Nestled in the heart of the city’s iconic attractions: The Wonder Bar, The Stone Pony and Convention Hall. The Asbury puts you right where the action is. Open from late May through the warmer months, the Salvation rooftop bar is the ultimate summer hotspot. With chic decor, comfortable lounge chairs, and a long bar perfect for hanging out, it’s the place to be.
Enjoy breathtaking views and the season’s hottest cocktails at Salvation, which boasts an extensive drink menu featuring signature cocktails, beer, wine, and bubbles at reasonable prices. While primarily a cocktail bar, Salvation also offers delicious lite fare like the Burrata Plate and Shrimp Cocktail to satisfy your cravings.
Just steps away, you’ll find Asbury Lanes, a legendary concert venue and vintage bowling alley that hosts weekly entertainment from local and national bands. The Asbury Lanes Diner, with its creative take on classic Jersey diner food, is a must-visit.
Don’t miss the newly opened Salvation rooftop bar, where you can savor local beers and innovative cocktails while soaking up endless ocean views. Located
just a block from the beach and the iconic boardwalk, The Asbury is perfect for those who want to be at the center of it all.
With its trendy ambiance, Salvation is ideal for relaxing with friends or a loved one, whether basking in the sun or under a starry sky. As the night progresses, especially on weekends, the rooftop transforms into a vibrant, festive scene. Reservations are available for the sunset deck, accommodating parties of up to six. Walk-ins are welcome in other areas, with ample seating and standing room on a first-come, first-served basis.
https://www.theasburyhotel.com/ eat-and-drink/salvation
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 5 pm – 12 am Friday & Saturday: 5 pm – 1:30 am
CANINE COMPANIONS: ASBURY PARK’S BEST DOG HANGOUTS
ASBURY BARK
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI
Asbury is a haven for dog lovers and their furry companions. This vibrant community goes above and beyond to cater to canine needs, making it one of the most dog-friendly spots around. From its welcoming dog beaches and pet-centric events to its
PAWS BARKERY AND BOUTIQUE
Paws Barkery and Boutique is Asbury’s go-to spot for handmade dog and cat treats and boasts a variety of pet accessories, from bandanas and collars to leashes and toys, many of which are handmade. Every treat
“ASBURY IS A PARADISE FOR DOGS AND HUMANS ALIKE. IT’S WOOF-ERRIFIC!”
numerous dog-friendly businesses and outdoor spaces, Asbury Park ensures that pups and their owners feel right at home. Whether enjoying a meal at a dog-friendly café, or participating in local pet events, you’ll quickly see why Asbury Park is a paradise for dogs and their humans alike. How WOOF-erific is that? Below we’ve listed some of the best spots to visit with your fur friend in, around and outside of town.
ASBURY PARK DOG BEACH AND ASBURY BOARDWALK
Asbury Park Dog Beach in Asbury Park, NJ, welcomes Fido all day long from mid-September to mid-May. During the summer, plan your visit for early morning or evening, as dogs are not allowed between 8:30 am and 6:00 pm. If your hound was born to run, enjoy an off-leash romp at this popular beach. After a game of fetch or Frisbee, take a refreshing swim with your pooch.
On the Boardwalk from May 17th to September 14th, dogs are not permitted at any time.
is “Paw Made,” baked fresh daily, and hand-packed in their bakery in Asbury Park to ensure maximum freshness and quality. Now located in Convention Hall Arcade and The Shoppes at the Arcade. www.pawsbarkeryandboutique.com.
CONFECTIONS OF A ROCKSTAR
Pop into this delicious bakery on Cookman, and pick up a HoundDog “Puppy Cake” while you pick up a cupcake (or two, or three or four, who’s counting really?) www.confectionsofarockstar.com
PLAYA BOWLS
Located right on the Boardwalk and on Cookman, you can order your fourlegged best friend a “Pup Cup” made from coconut oil and peanut butter, while you get an Acai Bowl, juice or smoothie. www.playabowls.com
WONDER BAR YAPPY HOUR
Wanna hang out? Yappy Hour at the Wonder Bar is a special time for our furry friends. With ample fenced-in outdoor space, dogs can meet new buddies, get
some exercise, or simply relax by the water bowl while their humans socialize. www. wonderbarasburypark.com/yappy-hour
CROSS AND ORANGE
Want to enjoy some high end cuisine together? Cross and Orange’s menu is human and pup approved- Outdoor tables are dog friendly and they even offer a menu of chicken and steak for your pup! www.crossandorangeap.com
WILD AIR BEERWORKS
Thirsty? Take a walk up Main St., to….are we calling it “Uptown?” Well, whatever the term, this charming local brewery is located on 2nd and Main. Be sure to sample their acclaimed sour beer while you relax inside with your canine companion by your side, or soak up the sunshine on the outdoor patio. This brewery offers a laid-back atmosphere where both humans and dogs can unwind and enjoy a delightful outing together in Asbury Park. www.wildairbeer.com
THE DAWG JOINT
Need a groomer or daycare? Look no further than The Dawg Joint down the Alley on Bangs Ave. This state-of-theart grooming facility is a neighborhood favorite, and their daycare facility is spotless, safe, and supervised, which has separate playground spaces for small and large dogs. www.thedawgjoint.com
“BEACHES, BOUTIQUES, CUPCAKES AND POOLS?”
CITY BY THE SEA VETS
Hopefully you don’t need to come here often, but if you do, your pet will receive the best care possible. Located at the Shops on Sunset Point, on Memorial Drive, This veterinary service offers a multitude of pet care services at this veterinary hospital in Asbury Park, NJ, specializing in dog health services for dogs of all ages, breeds, and circumstances. www.citybytheseavet.com
THE DOGGY GYM
For our older canine friends, you can visit The Doggy Gym in Belmar. Founded by Melina Zimmerman, its mission is to provide a center of excellence for veterinary pain management and physical rehabilitation. They treat all breeds, species of domestic animals, and provide care for all ages and stages of your animal’s life. www.thedoggygym.net
GREEN LEAF RESORT
Swimming, anyone? Green Leaf Resort in Oakhurst has daycare, training, boarding, and.... drum roll…. a 3,000 sq ft indoor aquatic center. A good lap around the pool can cool dogs in the summer, and, unlike walking, it’s a good full-body workout year-round. www.greenleafresort.com
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
“Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn says that boundaries can be learned by dogs of any age.
“There’s a nasty perception along the ‘can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ line of thinking,” she says.
“While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you. Dog training isn’t just for struggling pups either. Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”
Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.
“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
DOG SOCIALIZING TIPS:
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm— those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
“While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you.”
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.
• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.
• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.
• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.
• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.
HOW
TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:
events
AUGUST 3RD
Saturday DJ Sets | Salvation Rooftop
210 Fifth Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 | 9:00 PM
Join us every Saturday from 9:00 PM – 1:30 AM for DJ sets by local talent on the Salvation Rooftop.
AUGUST 5TH
The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra
1200 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 | 7:30 PM
America’s premier swing band returns to Tim McLoone’s Supper Club to perform their timeless classic songs!
AUGUST 7TH
Bonfire on the Beach
850 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 | 8:00 PM
Cozy up on the beach with a towel and enjoy the warm glow of a summer bonfire! Aug 7 at the 1st Avenue beach
AUGUST 12TH
Drama Kids of Eastern Monmouth - Willly Wonka Summer Camp
The Woman’s Club of Asbury Park, 57 Wickapecko Dr, Ocean Township, NJ 07712 | 9:00 AM
Enter the magical and scrumptious world of WILLY WONKA: KIDS! Explore acting, singing and dancing through Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory while growing crucial skills such as communication, team work, and imagination that will help you thrive not only on stage, but in life!
AUGUST 18TH
Asbury Fresh Farmers & Makers Market
Press Plaza Asbury Park, NJ 07712 | 9:00 AM
Riley Park transforms into a bustling pop-up market, featuring local artisans and businesses displaying their handmade goods.
AUGUST 22ND
JAZZ is PHSH
1213 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 | 7:00 PM
An evening with JAZZ is PHSH
The Chase Brothers have brought a fresh take on the music of Phish to some of the best musicians in the world and created a platform for Phish fans to experience their favorite music through the eyes of jazz musicians.
Designing thoughtful, purpose-driven, ecologically-appropriate landscapes.
