ENTERTAINMENT
DAISY, CITY LIFESTYLE’S TOP DOGGY MODEL, BRINGS SERIOUS FASHION FLAIR TO GREATER LONG BRANCH.
EDUCATION
INSIDE JUST PLAY INDOOR PLAYGROUND, WHERE KIDS’ IMAGINATIONS RUN WILD.
Paws, Play and Sweet Days
Oh, Greater Long Branch, welcome to August—the Sunday of summer. I heard years ago that summer is like a weekend: June is Friday night, July is Saturday and August is Sunday. It has stayed with me ever since. The Halloween decorations that somehow appeared at Costco back in June may be trying to rush us along, but I am happily resisting. There are still dips in the pool, beach days, backyard barbecues, ice cream runs and sunny afternoons to enjoy.
This month’s Kids + Pets Issue feels right for this point in the season, when summer is full of motion and everyone in the house is ready for one more adventure. As a mom, I know these years have a funny way of feeling both long and impossibly fast, especially when measured in school years, sports schedules and growing kids.
Of course, a Kids + Pets Issue needs a cover star with personality to spare, and Daisy delivered. On page 12, meet the fashionable miniature goldendoodle whose sweet nature, stylish strut and joyful reunions with her littermate brothers helped her earn the title of Greater Long Branch’s Next Top Doggy Model.
The kids get their turn in this issue, too—with a little sugar, of course. Turn to page 16 for “The Kids Made Me Do It,” where Chef David Burke shares how a rainy day at home with his boys sparked one of his most playful desserts: cake pops.
For local families looking for room to move, imagine and explore, page 20 brings us to “Where Imagination Comes to Play,” the story of Just Play Indoor Playground in West Long Branch, where two moms turned play-based learning into a bright, beach-inspired space for open play, parties and community connection.
We couldn’t let a Kids + Pets Issue pass without celebrating the local favorites families rely on most. On page 24, you’ll find “Readers’ Choice: Kids + Pets Edition,” featuring Greater Long Branch businesses chosen by readers, from classrooms and play spaces to grooming tables and exam rooms. Follow @greaterlongbranchcitylifestyle for future months’ categories.
Here’s to the Sunday of summer, the people and pets we love, and these last long, sunny days.
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Brooke Boyer | brooke.boyer@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Rose Balisi | rose.balisi@citylifestyle.com
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
INTERNS
Riley Burns | riley.burns@citylifestyle.com
Matina Manganello
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tater Bear Treats, David Burke
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andrea Phox Photography, Tater Bear Treats, David Burke Hospitality Management, My Havana Photography, Wesley Cheringal
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—3: Long Branch hosted Art in the Park, celebrating local artists, community and creativity at West End. 4—5: Ribbon-cutting ceremony and Sunset Soirée at The Seashore in Long Branch with Sandra Valencia. 6—7: Purr’n Pooch Pet Resorts delivered donated dog supplies to the Monmouth County SPCA, thanks to generous clients.
LINDSAY DEANGELIS
SANDRA VALENCIA
PURR’N POOCH PET RESORTS PURR’N POOCH PET RESORTS
SANDRA VALENCIA
LINDSAY DEANGELIS
LINDSAY DEANGELIS
business monthly
The Elbie Breaks Ground at 305 Broadway in Long Branch
Construction has begun on The Elbie, a new residential development at 305 Broadway in Long Branch, marking another addition to the city’s ongoing downtown revitalization efforts. The project will introduce modern housing units designed to expand residential options in the area while supporting continued investment along the Broadway corridor. City officials and project partners highlighted the development as part of broader growth and redevelopment activity across Long Branch.
Long Branch Announces EMS Overhaul with MEDSTAR Expansion
The City of Long Branch announced a major overhaul of its emergency medical services, expanding coverage through the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office EMS program, MEDSTAR. Beginning May 1, the initiative strengthens citywide response with additional ambulances, enhanced staffing, and coordinated support from volunteer EMS organizations. Officials said the transition aims to improve response times and maintain high-quality care for residents while ensuring no direct cost to taxpayers.
Photography by New York YIMBY
Photography by City of Long Branch
Daisy Takes the Crown
A stylish Freehold pup charms her way to City Lifestyle’s Top Doggy title.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MY HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY
In May, dogs from across New Jersey gathered for City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model casting call, where canine contestants competed for the chance to represent their hometown on the cover.
A key partner in the event was K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough, known for luxury dog boarding and daycare, cage-free accommodations and a focus on safe, clean and enriching experiences for pets. K9 Resorts helped make the casting call a memorable day for families and their dogs.
Animal Alliance also joined the event, bringing its mission of helping animals in need to a day centered around community and canine connection. The nonprofit organization rescues, shelters and supports dogs and cats while helping pets find adoptive homes.
Tater Bear Treats added another special touch with small-batch dog treats made in New Jersey, giving the four-legged contestants one more reason to wag their tails.
From playful puppies to seasoned companions, the competition showcased dogs of every breed, size and personality imaginable. While every contestant brought something special to the event, one pup stood out among the entries thanks to her gorgeous face, spunky personality and undeniable sense of style.
That pup is Daisy, a Freehold-based miniature goldendoodle and the overall winner of City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model contest.
Known affectionately as Doodle, Daisy Lee, Dai and Daisy Girl, Daisy is much more than a pretty face. With her signature strut, wagging tail and fashionable accessories, she embodies everything that makes dogs such treasured members of our families.
On June 16, Daisy celebrates her seventh birthday, and what better way to mark the occasion than with statewide recognition? Her owner, Christine Pandolfo, describes her as sassy, smart and loyal, with a personality that shines just as bright as her fluffy golden coat.
“Daisy is the sweetest girl,” Pandolfo says. “She loves her human and dog friends. She is well-behaved and loves traveling to different spots and exploring with her mom. She brings so much happiness and laughter everywhere she goes.”
“
Wherever she goes, Daisy seems to make friends. Her gentle personality and cheerful spirit have made her a favorite among people and pups alike. Whether she is meeting someone for the first time or revisiting a familiar face, Daisy greets everyone with the same enthusiasm.
“She brings so much happiness and laughter everywhere she goes.”
—Christine Pandolfo
Like many dogs, Daisy has a few favorite treats that instantly capture her attention. Purina Dentalife sticks and Newman’s Own Woofles rank at the top of her snack list. But for Daisy, life’s greatest rewards often come in the form of new experiences.
An avid explorer, Daisy loves searching for shells along the beach in Pier Village and strolling through the scenic paths of Allaire State Park. Her adventures also take her to dogfriendly destinations throughout the region, including Asbury Park. According to Pandolfo, Daisy is happiest near the water, where she can play in the sand, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Of course, every memorable dog has at least one quirky habit, and Daisy is no exception.
Whenever someone leaves the house, Daisy immediately rushes to the window to watch them depart. But simply seeing them leave is not enough. She patiently waits for each visitor to wave goodbye before driving away. Until that wave happens, Daisy remains stationed at her post.
Part of what made Daisy stand out in this year’s competition is her undeniable sense of style. She loves dressing for every occasion, sporting seasonal bandanas, cozy sweaters and even pajamas when bedtime rolls around.
According to Pandolfo, Daisy has a distinctive little strut accompanied by an adorable wiggle that makes her impossible to ignore. It is the kind of confidence that seems tailor-made for a cover model.
Yet perhaps the most touching part of Daisy’s story happened completely by chance.
Last summer, while vacationing in the North Fork region of Long Island, Daisy and Pandolfo met a fellow dog owner who could not help but notice how much Daisy resembled her own dog, Darnell. After chatting and comparing paperwork, they made an incredible discovery: Daisy and Darnell were littermates.
But it gets better. Darnell’s owner had previously encouraged a friend to adopt another puppy from the same litter, meaning Daisy had not one, but two brothers nearby. A few weeks later, Daisy reunited with both Darnell and Carson for a special playdate.
The dogs seemed to recognize one another immediately. They played together effortlessly, forming an instant connection that delighted everyone watching.
This month, the siblings will reunite once again to celebrate their seventh birthday together.
With her sweet spirit, adventurous heart, fashionable flair and unforgettable personality, Daisy has officially earned her place as City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model.
The casting call was made possible with support from local pet-focused partners who helped create a welcoming day for dogs, families and the community.
EVENT PARTNERS:
K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough 63 Route 206, Suite 100, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 k9resorts.com/hillsborough
Animal Alliance animalalliancenj.org
Tater Bear Treats Order online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.
THE KIDS
How family moments inspired some of Chef David Burke’s most iconic creations.
DO IT MADE ME
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID
This month’s kids and pets theme got me thinking about the times my kids have impacted my culinary creativity, including one rainy day at home with my boys that unexpectedly inspired one of my most playful desserts: cake pops.
It was back in the early ’90s. My two little boys and I were stuck at home due to torrential rain. When I started thinking about what to feed them, I realized I only had cream cheese and smoked salmon in the refrigerator. “Hey, I’m a chef. I don’t eat at home all that much.”
I thought I was up the proverbial creek until I remembered I had recently acquired a lollipop mold with sticks from a yard sale. Knowing my boys were suckers for lollipops, I figured I could trick them into eating the salmon and cream cheese if they were on a stick.
RECIPE BY CHEF DAVID BURKE
BURKE HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT
So, I chopped up the salmon, combined it with the cream cheese, pressed the mixture into the rounds of the mold and stuck a stick in each one. After a brief stint in the freezer to set up, I presented the salmon and cream cheese lollipops to the boys.
They didn’t bite, literally. But I did. And I thought the idea was delicious, fun to eat, and worth revisiting in a sweeter form.
That rainy-day experiment eventually led me to create a cake pop. Presented on a metal “tree” in a variety of flavors, they have remained a best-selling dessert. They can be much easier to make than you might think—see the recipe below—and are sure to add a wow factor to any occasion.
This version uses prepared elements, making it easy enough to become a staple of your own repertoire.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 can prepared chocolate frosting
• 18 lollipop sticks
• 1 bag chocolate candy melts
• 1 tube decorating icing
• 1 tablespoon multicolored candy sprinkles, crumbled Heath bar or both
ABOUT CHEF DAVID BURKE:
Brooklyn-born chef and restaurateur David Burke, who was raised and continues to live in New Jersey, is known for playful, precision-driven modern American cooking and elevated comfort classics. His restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, including Red Horse by David Burke in Rumson.
To learn more, explore his restaurants, or get in touch, visit chefdavidburke.com and follow his culinary adventures on Instagram @chefdavidburke
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish while the oven is heating.
2. With a mixer on low speed, beat cake mix, water, oil and eggs in a bowl for 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes more.
3. Pour batter into the greased baking dish. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 28 to 33 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool for at least one hour.
4. Crumble cooled cake into a large bowl. Stir in frosting until mixture is sticky and starts to come together, but is not smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll cake mixture into 18 1½-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
6. Place ¼ cup candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high until melted, about 20 seconds.
7. Push a lollipop stick halfway into each ball. Gently dip balls into the melted chocolate to coat. Then place upright in a foam block.
8. While coating is wet, decorate the cake pops with candy sprinkles, Heath bar crumbles or both.
Chef David Burke
WHERE Imagination COMES TO Play
Two moms bring play-based learning, imagination and movement together at Just Play Indoor Playground.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PHOX PHOTOGRAPHY
What began as a simple belief—that children learn, grow and thrive through play—became the foundation for Just Play Indoor Playground in West Long Branch.
Before opening Just Play, co-owners Leslie Font and Paulina Rosero built Colorín Spanish Program, a Spanish immersion program in Monmouth County rooted in play-based learning. Through hands-on activities, movement, imagination and interaction, they watched children build confidence, creativity, language skills and social connections.
As the program grew, Font and Rosero created a small pretend-play village where children could become chefs, firefighters, doctors, shop owners and more. The response inspired a bigger vision.
As mothers themselves, they had spent years visiting indoor playgrounds and family entertainment centers throughout New Jersey. While they loved seeing children active and engaged, they noticed something missing locally: a space that blended imaginative pretend play with physical activities like climbing structures, tunnels, slides, trampolines and jungle gyms.
Families in Monmouth County often had to travel to North Jersey for that kind of experience. Font and Rosero believed local families deserved something closer to home—a place where children could imagine, explore, move and simply enjoy being kids.
That vision became Just Play Indoor Playground.
The party room
Leslie Font and Paulina Rosero
In 2019, they signed the lease for their first location. Weeks later, the COVID-19 pandemic brought those plans to an unexpected halt. Like many business owners, they faced uncertainty, delays and constant adjustments. Still, they refused to give up.
When they were finally able to open, the early months looked very different than expected. But support from friends, family and the local community helped the business grow through word of mouth.
The firehouse
Leslie Font and Paulina Rosero
Today, Just Play has become a favorite destination for families across Monmouth County and beyond. In June 2025, the business relocated from Ocean Township to a larger 6,000-square-foot facility in West Long Branch, allowing Font and Rosero to expand the experience they originally envisioned.
Inspired by the Jersey Shore, the space features bright colors, beach-inspired details and imaginative play areas designed to spark excitement the moment children walk through the doors. From open play and seasonal events to birthday celebrations, every experience is designed to create joyful memories for children and parents.
Birthday parties have become especially popular because families can enjoy the celebration while the Just Play team handles the details, including setup, decorations, balloon installations, food service and cleanup.
Beyond the playground itself, Just Play has also become a gathering place for families. Parents often form friendships while children play together, creating an environment that feels welcoming and familiar for returning guests. Seasonal events, themed activities and special celebrations throughout the year continue to bring families together.
Community remains at the center of everything Font and Rosero do.
Font moved from Puerto Rico to New Jersey more than 15 years ago, while Rosero immigrated from Ecuador more than 20 years ago. Together, they have spent more than a decade building businesses, creating jobs and investing back into the community that supported them.
Their journey was built alongside motherhood itself. When they first started working together, they were two friends raising young daughters while balancing business ownership, family life and endless responsibilities.
Looking back, they are proud not only of how far they have come, but of the perseverance it took to get there.
“Our mission has always been simple,” they say. “To provide a safe, clean and welcoming environment where children can play, explore, imagine and create lasting memories.”
At Just Play, childhood is celebrated through imagination, movement, laughter and connection— and for countless local families, those memories are only beginning.
To learn more about open play, birthday parties and upcoming events, visit Just Play Indoor Playground at justplaynj.com
Founded by longtime friends and mothers Leslie Font and Paulina Rosero, Just Play Indoor Playground & Cafe grew from a shared passion for childhood education, creativity and community. Before opening Just Play, Font and Rosero built Colorín Spanish Program, a Monmouth County immersion program rooted in play-based learning. Today, their family-focused vision brings local families together through open play, birthday celebrations, educational programs and community events in West Long Branch. Just Play Indoor Playground 185 Route 36 West, Building B rear, Suite B4
Leslie Font and Paulina Rosero
Readers Choice
KIDS + PETS EDITION —AUGUST 2026
From busy weekdays filled with school drop-offs to weekends spent at the park or with family pets, life in Greater Long Branch revolves around the places that support growing families in every way. This month’s Readers’ Choice: Kids + Pets Edition shines a light on the businesses that help care for, guide and engage the youngest members of the community.
Chosen entirely by reader votes, this year’s winners reflect the local favorites families return to again and again for dependable service and everyday care. We’re proud to announce the August 2026 Readers’ Choice winners for Greater Long Branch.
HELPING FAMILIES MAKE EVERY DAY COUNT
Greater Long Branch Readers’ Choice winners spotlight the businesses that support children and pets through learning, play and care. From educational programs and enrichment to veterinary services and recreation, these trusted professionals help families build happy, healthy lives.
Follow us for upcoming categories and voting at @GreaterLongBranchCityLifestyle .
ARTICLE BY GREATER LONG BRANCH CITY LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MY HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY
BEST DOGGY DAYCARE
Green Leaf Pet Resort Oakhurst
A safe, engaging environment and attentive staff helped Green Leaf Pet Resort become a favorite among local pet owners.
greenleafpetresort.com | (732) 272-0800
BEST VETERINARY PRACTICE
Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital
Known for compassionate care and experienced medical services, Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has earned the confidence of pet families throughout the area. oakhurstvet.com | (732) 531-1212
BEST PRESCHOOL/DAYCARE
Wesley Nursery School
Parents highlighted the welcoming atmosphere and early learning experiences that help children grow socially and academically. (732) 531-2140
BEST TUTORING CENTER
Dugan Prep
Students and families benefit from individualized instruction and academic support tailored to each learner’s goals. duganprep.com | (732) 903-8740
BEST PLAY SPACE
Just Play! Indoor Playground
Just Play! Indoor Playground earned recognition for creating a fun, active space where children can explore, imagine and stay engaged year-round.
justplaynj.com | (732) 509-7600
Captured by My Havana Photography
THE BOYS’ NO BAKE BONBONS
Kid-chef-friendly no-bake dog treat recipe
Tools Needed:
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper
Ingredients:
• 1 ¼ cups whole oats, quick or regular
• 1 cup unsweetened dried coconut flakes
• 1 cup all-natural peanut butter, preferably no salt; absolutely no xylitol
• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
• ¼ cup local honey
• All-natural carob powder and coconut flakes for finishing
Preparation Steps:
1. Combine the Base In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole oats and coconut flakes. Add the peanut butter, melted coconut oil and honey. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until a uniform dough forms.
2. Shape the Treats With wet hands, roll small amounts of the mixture into balls. Shape portions according to the dog’s size. Larger treats will need more time to firm up in the refrigerator.
3. Chill and Coat Place treats on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Transfer the tray to the refrigerator. Treats sized at roughly 2 tablespoons each will require approximately 15 minutes to set before the final coating.
4. Final Chill and Storage Return the coated treats to the refrigerator for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Once the treats are dry and hold their shape securely, they are ready to serve. Transfer the remaining portions to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
RECIPE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATER BEAR TREATS
Treat your four-legged family member to something homemade, wholesome and easy enough for little hands to help make. Homemade pet treats are a healthy alternative to store-bought options, letting owners control ingredients and avoid artificial additives. This no-bake recipe combines whole oats, peanut butter and coconut for a simple kitchen project children can help prepare.
Because the recipe requires no oven time, the treats can be customized for small and large dogs.
About Tater Bear Treats
Tater Bear Treats is a New Jersey-based business founded in 2022 by dog owner Christine Weber and her dog, Bear. The company specializes in all-natural, small-batch, home-baked treats designed for pets using human-grade ingredients.
With 10 distinct varieties tested by Bear and a second rescue dog named Ford, the brand avoids preservatives and additives in its products. In addition to traditional cookies, the product line features smoked jerkies, pet accessories and curated home decor.
Tater Bear Treats products are available online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
AUGUST 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 4TH
National Night Out 2026
Slocum Park, Broadway and Slocum Place, Long Branch, NJ 07740 | 6:00 PM
The city’s official “National Night Out” celebration brings the community together for a completely free evening of live DJ music, family games, inflatables, interactive K9 demonstrations and local food vendors. View more event details at longbranch.org
AUGUST 5TH – 9TH
Ocean Township Italian Festival
Joe Palaia Park, 200 Whalepond Road, Oakhurst, NJ 07755
The landmark 50th anniversary “Ocean Township Italian Festival” celebrates rich heritage with five days of traditional Italian food, live musical entertainment, carnival rides and family-friendly games. Learn more at iaato.com.
AUGUST 6TH, 13TH, 20TH, 27TH Thursdays by the
Sea Concert Series
Pier Village, 1 Chelsea Ave., Long Branch, NJ 07740 | 7:00 PM
Experience an idyllic summer evening at the “Thursdays by the Sea Concert Series” in Pier Village. Set against a stunning oceanfront backdrop, this weekly outdoor performance features top local bands playing a mix of rock, pop and classic hits. Enjoy coastal breezes, premier dining and boutique shopping along the boardwalk. Learn more at piervillage.com
AUGUST 10TH
JSJBF Blues Jam With Jack Pic
The Chubby Pickle, 23 Bay Ave., Highlands, NJ 07732 | 7:00 PM
Immerse yourself in local musical talent at the “JSJBF Blues Jam With Jack Pic.” Hosted by the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation at The Chubby Pickle, this dynamic event offers an authentic evening of live performances. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, great company and exceptional blues music. Learn more at jsjbf.org.
AUGUST 15TH
Surf & Turf Seafood Festival
Monmouth Park, 175 Oceanport Ave., Oceanport, NJ 07757 | 11:00 AM
Savor the Shore’s finest catches at Monmouth Park’s “Surf & Turf Seafood Festival.” This two-day culinary event features premium lobster rolls, crab cakes and a seltzer sampling. Enjoy vibrant live music and thrilling thoroughbred racing while indulging in gourmet offerings from over a dozen elite vendors. General admission is $7. Register at monmouthpark.com
AUGUST 29TH
Long Branch Jazz and Blues Festival
The Great Lawn, 10 Ocean Blvd., Long Branch, NJ 07740 | 1:00 PM
Experience a spectacular coastal celebration at the “Long Branch Jazz and Blues Festival.” Hosted by the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation on The Great Lawn, this premier outdoor event features exceptional live performances, local food trucks and artisan vendors. Enjoy incredible music, ocean breezes and an evening fireworks display. View event details at jsjbf.org.
Want to be featured?
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ GREATERLONGBRANCH
WHERE STORIES Come to Life
A HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD LIBRARY FOSTERING LITERACY, LEARNING, CONNECTION AND COMMUNITY ACROSS GENERATIONS.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WESLEY CHERINGAL
At first glance, the West End branch of the Long Branch Public Library feels more like a historic home than a public library. With its original architectural details, neighborhood charm and welcoming atmosphere, it is easy to understand why visitors feel instantly at home.
But behind its historic walls is something even more meaningful: a place where connections are built every day.
Following an extensive eight-month renovation, the library reopened with a refreshed space that preserves the character residents have loved for generations while preparing the building to serve the community for years to come. Originally opened in 1911, the building recently celebrated its 115th anniversary and remains a treasured part of Long Branch history. Many of the original doors and glass panels were carefully preserved through the restoration process.
“The first goal was preserving the building,” library manager Tara Sullivan says. “We wanted people to continue enjoying it just as they always have, while updating everything that needed repair.”
The renovation required thousands of books to be carefully packed, stored and eventually returned to their shelves. With support from city staff and the Department of Public Works, more than 20,000 volumes found their way back home in time for the library’s ribbon-cutting celebration.
The response from the community was immediate.
“It was incredible to see people come back in,” Sullivan says. “The community really showed up.”
While the historic building is impressive, Sullivan believes the real magic happens through the relationships formed inside.
Children’s programming has become one of the library’s defining features. Weekly storytimes welcome toddlers, preschoolers and school-aged children for books, songs, crafts and activities designed to foster a lifelong love of reading. Rather than following a strict formula, Sullivan tailors each session to the children in front of her.
“I want toddlers to love coming here,” she says. “I want them to look forward to visiting the library.”
That approach has helped create a generation of young patrons who view the library as a second home. Staff members know many children by name, watching them grow from toddlers into teens. Along the way, countless memorable moments unfold.
Her philosophy is simple: there is a book for everyone.
Whether helping an avid reader discover a new series or supporting a child who struggles with reading, she focuses on meeting each person where they are. Graphic novels, young adult fiction and approachable reading levels all have value if they help someone develop confidence and enjoyment.
“If you can make that connection, you’ve won them over,” she says.
“We wanted people to continue enjoying it just as they always have.”
One little girl attends storytime every week and always makes a point of studying Sullivan’s name tag and collection of pins before settling in for the program. Another memorable interaction came during a school visit when a child learned the library had been founded by a group of women more than a century ago. After hearing the story, he innocently asked Sullivan if she had been one of them.
— Tara Sullivan
For Sullivan, these moments represent something larger than literacy.
Beyond books, the library offers writing groups, spoken-word events, summer educational programs and community gatherings that bring residents together. It is also part of a larger library system that provides digital resources, theater programming, meeting spaces, social services and much more.
In an increasingly
digital world, the Long Branch Public Library continues to prove that libraries are about far more than books. They are places where stories are shared, friendships are formed and communities come together.
And in Long Branch, that story is still being written every day.
To learn more about the Long Branch Public Library, visit longbranchlib.org
