Explore and More!
Can you believe it’s July already? The last six weeks were exciting for the City Lifestyle team, as our first issue arrived in homes and businesses just in time for Memorial weekend! Thank you for all the texts, emails, DMs, and more, we look forward to connecting with anyone we haven’t met yet. This is just the beginning, we love featuring the artists, businesses, and events of this amazing area!
This month’s theme is all about exploration. There is so much to do locally, we explored close to home. Have you had a chance to visit the Soul Kitchen restaurant in Red Bank or Toms River? It’s a place with heart and mission, meant to be enjoyed by all and the food is delicious! Check out our conversation with Chef Yasi and Nicole Dorrity of the Red Bank location in this month’s issue. While we were in Red Bank, we checked out Transparent by the Tracks, the Danny Clinch pop-up that runs until July 15th, and although we were sad to see Sickles go, it’s a mustsee repurposing of the old space.
Back in Asbury, once you’ve enjoyed the beach or hung at the pool at the St. Laurent, (and double-checked your parking meter, of course), take a break indoors and explore some hidden gems like Living Lux or Frank’s Market Refillery. A little self-care goes a long way!!
Finally, have you ever explored the waves of Asbury? I wish I was more confident in the water, so this month we checked out the surf scene from novice to expert, you are never too old to try something new.
Happy Independence day!
CHRISTINE MCKENNA-TIRELLA, PUBLISHER @ASBURYPARKCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Christine McKenna-Tirella christine.tirella@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Svetlana Blasucci | svetlana.blasucci@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Svetlana Blasucci, Christine McKenna-Tirella
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Svetlana Blasucci, Tim Torchia, Connor Kane
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
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Entertainment at the Center Gala 2: 24 Karat Company serving food at the Center Gala 3: Bidding at the Center Gala 4: Carlotta Schmidt and the Bold at the Center Gala 5 — 7: The Center Gala
8: Caroline O’Toole with Thomas Arnone, Commissioner Director, Tourism Liaison for Monmouth County 9: Attendees at Need We Feed event, “Brews and Bites”, at Icarus Brewing Company 10: A Need We Feed event, “Brews and Bites”, at Icarus Brewing Company 11: Asbury Park Theater Co. production of The MountainTop closed May 20th 12: John Moor, Mayor of Asbury Park at the Summer Kick-off Press Conference 13: Million Dollar Quartet, Directed by Hunter Foster, at BellWorks Bell Theater this July 14: Rehearsal Picture of Gem of the Ocean, Running at 2RiverTheater until June 30
business monthly
Executive Director of Asbury Chamber of Commerce
Matthew Whelan has been promoted to the new executive director position, after serving as assistant director and marketing manager for the commerce since 2017. Long-time serving director Sylvia Cioffi will still be serving the community over at City Hall, in the Urban Enterprise department. Pictured: Mr Whelan speaking at the Summer Kick-Off Press conference outside The Stone Pony. Scan to
Monmouth Beaches Website Up-and-Running!
Know before you go! Monmouth County Tourism and visitnj.org are participating again this year in up-to-date beach conditions and activities for all beaches along the Jersey shore this summer season. Using current weather, surf and public safety alerts the website accurately calculates hazard conditions, you can stay up to date by visiting: https://monmouthbeaches.com/
Daniel Monzi promoted to VP of ICG Next
Asbury Park resident Daniel Monzi has been promoted to Vice President of ICG Next Financial Advisors. Monzi, who was recognized as a Five-Star Wealth Manager Under-40 in 2024, has been working with ICG Next of Wall for seven years. His areas of focus include wealth preservation strategies, investment management, intergenerational planning, and business Retirement Plans.
Photography by Daniel Monzi
TRANSPARENT tracks BY THE
The Clinch Pop-Up Brings Asbury to Red Bank
The Transparent Clinch Gallery, in partnership with Lamb& Wolves and the Anderson Building, aims to connect our communities through art. The space that was once Sickles has been transformed into an immersive art space, featuring an impressive collection of Danny Clinch’s photography throughout his career. It’s well worth a visit.
The Anderson Building, 200 Monmouth St, Red Bank
Open until July 15th.
ARTICLE BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM TORCHIA
SURF’S UP IN ASBURY PARK: RIDING THE WAVES OF CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
ASBURY PARK SWELLS
Asbury Park has a vibrant and diverse surf scene. The ocean is what brings people together to share their stories or a place to bond. Outside of the shops and restaurants there’s beauty right in
seriously. The ocean is more powerful than you are, and even though good surfers need to be in good shape, it is more important that they understand how to read the ocean. That experi-
“ULTIMATE ENVIRONMENT FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING THE SURF AND OCEAN LIFESTYLE.”
front. The town even added a sign that says “Surfing Only” located north of the convention center at the far end of the boardwalk. Here you’ll find students, locals and even onlookers enjoying what the ocean offers.
We spoke with Shaun McGrath, co-founder of Summertime Surf School, founded in 2006, here in Asbury Park. Summertime Surf School brings together new and old to those who want to conquer the vast ocean. You don’t have to be a professional to get out in the water. Their mission is to promote healthy living through surfing and have some great professionals trained in this. It’s all about the ultimate environment for teaching and learning the surf and ocean lifestyle.
Anyone can learn to enjoy riding a wave if guided properly. To be a true surfer takes commitment and perseverance. Shaun gave us some tips for new surfers telling us that it’s important to be humble and don’t take yourself too
ence takes time and that is why it is super important to get started with an experienced instructor and gain independent experience at beaches that have lifeguards.
Shaun likes to start his day early in the morning, hitting the waves at the north end. Surfing advice comes from all directions, and the early hours bring a mix of dedicated locals and eager beginners paddling out to catch the day’s first waves. Shaun mentioned that there are significant misconceptions about the surfer community, particularly the notion that they are always out to have fun. “Yes, surfers are pursuing the ‘ultimate pleasure,’” he explained, “but it takes a lot of hard work and grit to stick with surfing and be accepted into the local surfing community.”
Surfing is not just a casual hobby; it’s a dedicated lifestyle, and surfers can recognize that commitment in each other immediately.
CONTINUED >
ASBURY PARK SURF CLUB
Surfing should be for everyone, it’s just you and the waves, right?
Unfortunately, historically surfing hasn’t been available to everyone. For youths who don’t have the access or means to a surfboard or instruction, there’s Asbury Park Surf Club. Focused on providing free surf instruction and ocean education to members of the community in Asbury Park and Neptune, it’s mission is to create a space for underserved youth to feel their promise, strength, and potential through connection with the ocean and surfing. While they don’t offer lessons directly, they provide support to local non-profits, such as Boy&Girls Club of Asbury, and Koncious Youth Development & Services. To donate or volunteer, visit www.asburyparksurflclub.org.
VAGABOND SURF SHOP
If you’re looking to shop for the occasion, stop by Vagabond, filled with all your surfing supplies including Matador boards (a super local brand), board wax, fin replacements and threads to show your appreciation for the local scene. The shop, which is located on Cookman Ave, has knowledgeable, helpful staff who can help select the right board and equipment you need for the waves. We really admired the work of Marko Grasso on the walls. Marko Grasso is a notable nautical artist based in Asbury Park, New Jersey. He is the owner of Rusty Anchor Trading Co., a gallery and shop that showcases his unique wood carvings of marine life, such as whales, sharks, and octopuses. Grasso’s work is renowned for its vibrant textures and dynamic representations of ocean creatures, which he creates by meticulously carving different types of wood, including cedar, oak, and pine
“A WAY OF LIFE THAT FOSTERS FRIENDSHIPS”
Surfing brings generations together to share and appreciate mother nature’s great gift to humanity: the ocean, which has a playground built into it. The surf scene is not just about riding waves; it’s a way of life that fosters friendships, promotes physical and mental well-being, and cultivates a profound appreciation for nature. Families and friends gather on the shore, young surfers learn from the experienced, and all ages find common ground in their love for the sea. This connection to the ocean nurtures a sense of community and belonging that transcends age and background. The local surf scene is a welcoming and dynamic community, celebrating the thrill of surfing and the beauty of the ocean. It’s a place where people come together, not only to enjoy the sport but to support one another and protect the environment that sustains their passion.
Summertime Surf School (732) 599-2700
info@summertimesurf.com https://summertimesurf.com/our-mission/
Vagabond Surf (732) 897-7569
611 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 https://www.instagram.com/ vagabondsurfshopasbury/
Rusty Anchor Trading rustyanchortrading@gmail.com https://www.rustyanchortrading.com/
Asbury Surf Club https://www.asburyparksurfclub.org/
Hope is Delicious
JBJ
KITCHEN IS A COMMUNITY RESTAURANT FOR ALL
On a windy and rainy afternoon in May, Asbury Park City Lifestyle visited JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank. Outside may have been damp and dull, but inside the atmosphere, people and food were warm and cozy. Around us tables were full, with friends catching up, tourists hoping to see you-know-who, and a large party of retirees celebrating a birthday, the atmosphere buzzing with community.
After the lunch rush was over, we sat down with Executive Chef, Emily Yasi, and Community Coordinator, Nicole Dorrity. “We welcome everyone and anyone to come in and enjoy an amazing three-course meal regardless of one’s ability to pay for the meal.”
JBJ Soul Kitchen operates on a pay-it-forward model. It is a program of the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, that accepts donations and grants from individuals and corporations. Paying patrons are equally as important as non-paying guests. “What keeps the doors open are the guests that can afford to make a donation.”
While there are no prices on the menu, the suggested donation for lunch and dinner is $30, which is inclusive of tip and tax, and you are encouraged to leave extra to pay-it-forward, which covers the cost for guests who cannot afford their meal.
“For guests who cannot afford to make a donation, they can come in and have the same restaurant experience as a donating customer, all we encourage in return is a few minutes of volunteer time when they are here.”
The menu changes every two weeks to reflect the most in-season ingredients. This frequent refresh benefits everyone. As a paying customer, you can visit the restaurant multiple times in a season and experience a different menu each time, and the kitchen stays engaged with new recipes. Yasi, who studied at Brookdale Culinary Institute,
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINE MCKENNA-TIRELLA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONNOR KANE
SOUL
Nicole Dorrity (L), Chef Yasi (R)
and worked in multiple well-known restaurants in Monmouth before taking the position at JBJ Soul Kitchen, loves that her team and her patrons are never bored, “It’s a win-win for everybody.”
Wherever possible the team uses items grown in their garden at the front of the restaurant. Our lunch featured pickles from restaurant-grown cucumbers, and the mixed salad of the day was served with fresh greens from the garden. Our main courses were a turkey burger topped with red onion jam, and a Nashville seasoned grilled chicken sandwich with zesty ranch, lettuce, and tomato, both served with soul chips, coleslaw, and pickle.
Ms. Dorrity shared that for the vulnerable community who rely on the restaurant for a daily meal, the menu change adds important variety, and upholds the restaurant’s mission; dignity and respect are always on the menu. “Menu change day is a hot topic around here, faces light up, people love to try the new different menu items, and (they) really look forward to menu change day.”
Available for purchase at the restaurant is local honey, and online you may also purchase JBJ Soul Seasoning, which is often featured on the menu. The OG spice is similar to a blackening spice and is often showcased on the sweet potato chips, served with lunch (delicious). The Nashville spice, which has a little more of a kick than the OG spice, was featured on the Nashville Chicken Sandwich during our visit (also delicious), and although we didn’t get to try the new Cilantro Lime flavor, who doesn’t like the sound of that? Chef Yasi recommends it in particular for fish dishes, on a menu a few months ago she featured it on a dish with salmon with mango salsa (which we are sorry to have missed!)
“At the JBJ Soul Kitchen all are welcome at our table where locally sourced ingredients, dignity, and respect are always on the menu.”
“We know our guests that are coming in on a daily basis. It’s a safe place for them to be seen and heard, and know that people care.”
To date, JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank and Toms River have served 190,745 combined meals.
“We have success stories every day,” Ms. Dorrity adds. Volunteers, food insecure or not, help the vision of the restaurant come to life.
“We know our guests that are coming in on a daily basis. It’s a safe place for them to be seen and heard, and know that people care.”
To date, JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank and Toms River have served 190,745 combined meals and counting. Of those meals, approximately 57% of those meals are in-need and 43% of those meals are for paying customers. In 2023, they served more meals in one year than ever before (incredibly over 22,000 meals!)
JBJ Soul Kitchen is a community restaurant, not a soup kitchen. To support the mission, dine at one of their locations. Although reservations are not accepted, you are encouraged and more than welcome to walk in during restaurant hours. It’s easy to get a table, and waits are generally short.
For more details on the four locations, or to shop their merchandise online, volunteer, or donate at www.jbjsoulkitchen.org
Fresh Salad from the Garden
vacation VIBES
THIS EXOTIC COCKTAIL WILL TRANSPORT YOU TO PARADISE
Vacation time is just around the corner. We are dreaming of sitting on a secluded beach, sipping exotic cocktails with umbrellas in them. But why wait till vacation to enjoy a fun cocktail? This easy and refreshing classic will instantly transport you to paradise.
Piña Colada
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 oz cream of coconut
• 2 oz light rum
• 3 oz pineapple juice
• Juice of ½ lime
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
• 1/2 cup ice
• Pineapple wedge for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Blend frozen pineapple and ice for a couple of seconds. Add in the liquid ingredients and blend until smooth. (To make thicker, add ice. Add pineapple juice if too thick.) Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
Summer Self-Care
OUR FAVORITE THINGS AFTER A DAY IN THE SUN
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINE MCKENNA-TIRELLA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI
After Beach Care
Franks Market & Refillery
Located in the Shoppes at the Arcade, Franks is passionate about sustainability. His products are thoughtfully selected to be the best for you and the planet! With weekly specials, like 10% off Dip bars on Mondays, a refill happy hour on Thursdays, and a generous loyalty program, any day you stop in you’re likely to get a great deal on the most luxe ecofriendly, organic, and toxin-free products on the market. For summer my top picks are the Dip After Swim detangler, All Good SPF 50 mineral butter, and HiBar cleansers!
Located: The Shoppes at the Arcade, 658 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 https://www.franksmarketrefillery.com/
Franks Market & Refillery
LIVING | LUX
Self-care Sauna Sanctuaries
This spa is the perfect stop to cool down, but most importantly to replenish and reward your body for all it does for us! Here you can get cryotherapy, red light, “no-tox” facials (where a cryotherapy wand works wonders on your face) and from June onwards they are offering IV therapies too! Cryotherapy got me through my marathon training last year, and Wayne helps coach you through the cold with affirmations and gratitude prompts. You’ll walk out feeling renewed!
Located: Sunset Point Shops, 1319 Memorial Dr, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
https://livebetterlivelux.com/
Juice Basin
Made in Asbury, with Love, you’ll taste the difference in these juices. Madeline, Brian and the whole team like to joke that this is the smallest factory in the world; everything from the pressing to the labeling is done in-house! You can get a juice or smoothie freshly made or pick up a full cleanse to support your health and weight loss goals. My favorites are the Morning Breeze (Carrot, Apple, Orange, and Ginger) and the Mission Blue (Thai coconut, Pineapple, and Blue Majik powder) in a martini glass at the end of the day, it makes me feel very VIP!
Located: 805 4th Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 https://www.juicebasin.com/
Christine checking out Cyro Therapy
Juice Basin
AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST
Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa
Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Think Texas home-style ranch meets Southern luxury. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.
Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.
Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. Whether you’re a new or experienced golfer, the expansive,
ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE
“Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more.”
18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.
A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets. Guests can interact with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen, and make s’mores fireside at one of the many fire-pits around the resort. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property without feeling crowded by other guests.
The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-totable dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors such as local wagyu beef and fresh garden greens grown at the on-site garden. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and CONTINUED >
“The views are breathtaking , and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation.”
encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, or light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place. Eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace with appetizers, small plates and cocktails. Listen to live music on the terrace and take in the night sky or cool off with a refreshing beverage after a day of activities at this charming spot. Located at the center of the resort, indoor and outdoor seating is thoughtfully arranged to invite guests to relax, unwind and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them.
After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com
events
RECURRING
Asbury Fresh Market
Press Plaza, Asbury Park | 9:00 AM
A weekly favorite for both locals and tourists alike, returns for its 12th year! Check it out weekly for different farm stands, makers, food purveyors, vintage and collectibles. Sundays from 9 am-1 pm. For more information go to https://www.asburyfresh.com/markets/148
VARIOUS
Spring Lake Events in July
Various | 11:00 AM
Saturday, July 6 Spring Lake Summer Art Walk
Saturday, July 13 Christmas in July- Santa Paddle on the Lake Check out www.springlake.org for event details and rain dates.
RECURRING
Bonfires on The Beach
Asbury Beach (Various) | 7:00 PM
The cozy hangout by bonfire is back this year! Locations for each date below, more information at https://apboardwalk.com/
July 10 @ 5th Avenue
July 17 @ 3rd Avenue
July 24 @ 1st Avenue
July 31 @ 5th Avenue
JULY 20TH
Ocean Grove Summer Stroll Art Show
Various | 4:00 PM
Stroll the Main Avenue of Ocean Grove to shop, take in the art, dine & dance to live jazz music with Jo Wymer’s Jazz Squad. In partnership with Main Avenue Galleria. Rain date 7/27, For more information visit www.oceangrovenj.com
JULY 24TH – 28TH
Monmouth County Fair
East Freehold Showgrounds, Kozloski Road, Freehold, NJ | Various Times
Free Entertainment, Live Music on the Main Stage, Rides & Games, Commercial Vendors, Delicious Food, Home & Garden Demonstrations & Displays. A county-wide event for all ages! Visit www.monmouthcountyfair.com for more details on times and live music.
Designing thoughtful, purpose-driven, ecologically-appropriate landscapes.
