HOWARD STERN REMINDER: My “introduction” and Fred’s bachelor party memories begins Tuesday (Dec. 29), airing roughly between 8 am to 10 am on Sirius' Howard 100. Other interviews about celebs air throughout the week.
Locals share their favorite 2009 memories…
DJ Meatnmore, Asbury Park resident:
“Jumping in the ocean with my boyfriend and dog, on an empty Asbury beach, in mid-November.”
Helen Chantal-Pike, author, “Glory Days of Asbury Park”:
“Sitting at the outside corner table of the Salt Water Cafe, facing Convention Hall and listening to the final sounds of the season coming from Arthur Pryor’s legacy, the Asbury Park Municipal Band. People I know more recently as well as those from long ago came strolling up to my table to chat and catch up. My favorite Asbury Park reunion that August night was with Mrs. Jay’s grand-niece, Nancy Wiener, with whom I had gone to high school. Her young son was playing with the band. Asbury Park has got it all over Times Square.”
Kathy Kelly, owner, Paranormal Museum:
“Watching the Asbury Park Marching Band in the Halloween Parade. It was such a great community moment, a family moment. Parents lined the street to watch their kids and we had local kids in the downtown.”
Paul Booth, reporter, The Coaster:
“Dinner with my family at Belmonte’s this summer. My younger brother, on leave from his second tour in Iraq, was among the crowd that included my mother, father and uncle. I felt a lot of love at that table…and I haven’t laughed that hard since.”
Tom Gilmour, director of commerce, Asbury Park:
“I would have to say the 4th of July fireworks on the beach. This year’s show with the two synchronized locations rivaled any other events on the Jersey Shore. As I witnesses the thousands of people who came out, I realized Asbury Park is really back. I was proud to be an American and part of the community here in Asbury Park. Huge!”
Brett Colby, Asbury Park resident:
“The Asbury Park High School spring production of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. On a shoestring budget, the high school students put together an amazing show, produced with help from Algonquin Arts, ArtsCAP, the Black Box of Asbury Park and Interfaith Neighbors. The show was a great example of several non-profits collaborating to achieve tremendous results within our city.”
Mike Sodano and Nancy Sabino, The Showroom:
“We have had some incredible memories during the first seven months as Asbury Park’s only movie theater. What stands out the most is the city’s incredible sense of community. Looking back, our best memories are the ones that have brought people together – whether by cultural, community or societal interests.
Marilyn Schlossbach, Langosta Lounge:
“Our holiday community dinners on Thanksgiving and Christmas. The eagerness to help and incredible generosity of people from all over our community really makes it an incredible Asbury Park memory.”
Frank D’Alessandro, Stephen Crane House:
“The most exciting day this past year in Asbury Park was January 20, when an event in the nation’s capital had such a joyful impact here. The excitement here was truly palpable, as for first time in our country’s history, an African-American was being sworn in as President. Buses from Asbury were filled with people of every age from pre-teen to non-agenerian, bound for Washington, DC. There were also gatherings all over our city to witness the historical event on TV.”
“We do not remember days; we remember moments”: Cesare Pavese, poet. Cheers to more fun and fabulous, healthy and happy, productive and prosperous Asbury Park moments in 2010.
Thank you always for your readership throughout the year.
One of my favorite Asbury Park memories this year was sliding down the historic 30 foot long, brass fire pole at the firehouse. So much history around that pole and a very exclusive club of heroes has slid down it – I was honored and exhilarated to have done that in 2009.
Another amazing Asbury Park moment for me was going to my first Springsteen concert at Convention Hall. As someone said to me afterwards, I have been “baptized into the religion of Bruce Springsteen.”
In celebration of the New Year, community members generously shared their favorite times of 2009…
UNWRAP THE GIFT OF GOSSIP: NEW “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW
NEXT ISSUE PUBLISHED JANUARY 7
Mayor Ed Johnson:
“My favorite memory would have to be my dad changing my name plate from councilman to mayor during the reorganization and inauguration meeting on July 1.”
Sonja O’Brien, Asbury Park resident:
“In September, during the Town Wide Yard Sale for the animal shelter Rescue Ridge we had tons of shoppers from surrounding towns and it was wonderful to hear them realize how wonderful the houses are and how great the residents are in Asbury Park. Seeing them excited about our great town was an unexpected byproduct of a worthwhile fundraiser.”
Marj Conn, Ocean Grove writer and performer:
“Every amazing program that Frank D’Alessandro provides at the Stephen Crane House – an important asset to the community – as well as generously letting other people present their programs is a wonderful memory of mine.”
Pasqualina Delucia, Madison Marquette:
“I remember standing on the beach watching everyone around the bonfire…young, old, single, couples, families…that great Asbury mix. There were children running around all bundled up, laughing and I remember thinking at that moment that we were creating new memories – that this is their Mr. Peanut, this is their Carousel brass ring. This is one of those moments that they will look back on fondly years from now. I get choked up even thinking about it.”
State Senator Sean Kean:
“Over the summer, it was exciting to see the beaches in Asbury Park packed with visitors and the boardwalk shops bustling with business. The increase in tourism revenue surpassed $500,000 this year, up from less than $50,000 six years ago. Asbury Park has definitely reclaimed its name as the destination of the Jersey Shore.”
Our votes and donations to their campaigns are first-class however it is apparent that many New Jersey politicos believe our lives and loves are second-class – they won’t be spreading holiday cheer this year by endorsing the Gay Marriage Bill.
“I believe marriage should be between a man and a woman,” said Senator Sean Kean in an exclusive interview with The Coaster and TheBPlot earlier this week. “After giving it serious thought, careful consideration, having met with numerous folks from both sides of the aisle, I don’t plan on supporting the bill.”
Asbury Park resident Amy Quinn suggests New Jersey residents should continue lobbying their representatives.
“Urge your friends in towns throughout New Jersey to put pressure on their senators to support marriage equality,” said Amy. ”We need everyone to play a role in this struggle – not just gay people. “
Below is where the Bill stands now:
The gay marriage bill was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee, (Senator Sean Kean is not on this committee so he was not a part of this vote).
The bill was then posted for a vote in the Senate, but it was shortly after removed from the list by the sponsors.
The Senate would like the Assembly to vote on the bill first.
The next steps would be for the Assembly Judiciary Committee to vote on the bill on January 4th and if passed there, then the bill could be voted on by the Assembly and the Senate on January 7th or 11th.
However, at this time, the bill has not been scheduled for a vote.
Five senators issued a statement Friday (Dec. 18) expressing their suport for “strengthening New Jersey’s civil union law.”
“A civil union is a legal contract, and the terms must be respected,” Senator Andrew Ciesla said. “No one can ignore the law.”
“It should be just as easy for civil union couples to split assets or to go through probate as it is for married couples,” said Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman, who urged reform of the civil union laws while hearing testimony on the issue before the Senate Judiciary Committee. “I would support any reasonable legislation that ensures this happens in every case.”
“If medical coverage is offered to spouses and other dependents, then it also should be offered to civil union partners,” Senator Sean Kean said. “We will do everything possible to ensure that no partner in a civil union is denied medical care.”
A New Jersey lobbyist, who has been fighting tirelessly for gay marriage for years, sees differently.
“The statement by the five republicans reflected absolutely nothing new,” said Steve Goldstein of Garden State Equality. ”We look forward to winning marriage equality in the next few weeks.”
Three-year old Truman, a pit bull mix, ventured to the Asbury Park Boardwalk Sunday (Dec. 20) to check out the beautiful snow fall on the Boardwalk in Asbury Park.
“Since the snow was higher than my legs and I had to jump, not walk on the Boardwalk, I am guessing there was about eighteen inches of the white stuff,” said Truman. “I love the snow but I got coooooold fast even with the fancy-pants new coat my daddies gave me as an early Christmas gift. Cheers to a white Christmas everybody – I gotta go find my blanket!”
I love to reflect on the past year, friends and my life during the holidays. One of the great influencers for me, after my mom, is the person who years ago gifted me with the opportunity to achieve some of my goals – through her “power of one.”
GOSSIP – INCLUDING TWO EXCLUSIVES – THAT’S LIKE A SWEET FIRST KISS UNDER THE MISTLETOE: “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW
Cathy Tobin – coincidentally also a resident of Asbury Park – hired me to work on the Howard Stern Show and gave me the break I needed to elbow my way into the entertainment industry when I was a dime-a-dozen sophomore in college, had no contacts and little experience. I will always be thankful to her.
Cathy trusted in me and encouraged others at the show to take chance after chance on me.
I came home from the show exhausted and exhilarated from the people I met (newsmakers Joey and Mary Jo Buttafucco and celebs including Alec Baldwin and Pamela Anderson) and the projects I had (interviewing guests, screening callers, doing research for Howard’s book, “Miss. America”) and eventually, being on-air frequently.
No matter how insane it was at the studios – and it was insane – Cathy went out of her way to make sure I had interesting, high-profile tasks and always took the time to work with me. She was a calming and influential force for a saucer-eyed, hungry, newbie employee.
She also made a point of introducing me to many big wigs, who, in turn, introduced me to other bigger, big wigs – some who have helped me many times through the years.
This was in contrast to other studios I heard about where the stars and executives put their staff through little pieces of industry hell, relegating low-level staff to: finding a baker to make couture-inspired gingerbread men for a 5 year old’s birthday party, writing and editing a star’s personal ad, managing a producer’s eBay account where he sold the swag he received from publicists or running around New York to find the “most fragrant” white roses (seriously).
I believe I might not be in Asbury Park today, if it were not for my “power of one” Cathy Tobin. Having that radio and television show on my resume jump-started many dialogues for future endeavors for me. She is a rock star in my eyes.
I hope Cathy inspires you to use your “power of one” in 2010.
Shameless plug: I will be back on Sirius XM satellite radio’s Howard Stern Show for the “Best of the 90’s” series over the holidays. The two week series – which features the most memorable clips from the 90’s peppered with behind-the-scenes interviews – premieres Monday (Dec. 21).
My “introduction” and Fred’s bachelor party memories begins Tuesday (Dec. 29), airing roughly between 8 am to 10 am.
“The Bachelor Party segment is probably our favorite part of the whole show,” said Jeremy Lipkin, special series producer. “It came out great. Everyone’s stories cut together perfectly and with the stripper-type music playing in the background it is a lot of fun.”
A few more short interviews about Gilbert Gottfried, John Kennedy, Jr., Roger Daltrey, Billy West, Sandra Bernhardt, John Stamos, William Shatner, Robin Quivers and Fred Norris air during the following few days.
UPDATE: “The Bachelor Party segment of ‘History’ came out great!” said Gary Dell’Abate, executive producer. ”What a classic story. I wanted to let you know that we’re playing a little 5 minute sneak peek of it this Friday (Dec. 18) on the ‘History of Howard Act 3 Kickoff Show’ in case anyone is curious and can’t wait until the 29th to hear it. It’s this Friday at 1 pm on Howard101.”
Give a 30-minute rejuvenating vacation this holiday, or take one yourself at Gloss Salon in Asbury Park - celebrating its five-year anniversary in 2010.
Men’s Manicure: $15
Escape to your special place this holiday or in 2010. Manicurist Lauren pampers you and makes your digits look respectable and elegant. Manicures includes shape and file, trim cuticles, buff to shine and fab hand massage.
Women’s Manicure or Pedicure: $15, $30
Many a lady has told me Gloss’ manicure and pedicure services are the best in the City. Fancy-pants O.P.I. products help your perfectly polished hands sparkle holding your sparkly drink this holiday. Lauren also does ”pink and white” gels (full set is $80), which she tells me is the new hot nail service.
Women’s Keratin Treatment: $190
Never heard of Keratin before John Partush, owner, Gloss Salon explained the treatment to me. “It smooths and revitalizes hair, reduces frizz and makes it shiny.” TheBPlot readers special holiday sale in January and February – $350 treatment for $190.
Forget common nylon leashes. Who wants to be common? The absolute best dog leash [photos left], combining style and function, is made from natural-colored sailboat rope and marine-grade cast Italian brass which patinas beautifully over time. Guaranteed you will love this. Twenty-five percent of all profits go to the Louis Animal Foundation. $56 to $68.
FetchDog Fisherman Sweater
These marvelous 100% wool sweaters [photo below right] are hand knit in the Northern Highlands of South America by descendants of the Inca Indians, who are paid a living wage through Fair Trade guidelines. It’s Truman’s favorite sweater because it covers his entire chest and stomach. $40.
Barkwheats Dog Biscuits
All the ingredients in these all natural, hand-crafted biscuits are grown by small-scale organic farmers in New England and Belize and certified fair trade. $8.49
Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette
From dining out, to the proper do’s-and-don’ts of traveling with panache, this book, by nationally-recognized pet expert Charlotte Reed (a.k.a. Miss Fido Manners) shows readers the best practices for flawless canine behavior in every situation. $12.95.
Millions watched Monday as Kathie Lee Gifford talked on “Today” for the first time about her husband’s public dalliances in 1997 while discussing the Tiger Woods scandal but it was TheBPlot’s “You Say Who” readers who knew last week (Thursday, Dec. 3) that producers were begging her to stop ignoring her past.
Thursday’s “You Say Who” detailed: “Frustrated producers gripe that (Kathie Lee and her co-host Hoda) are talking about the biggest pop culture news story, on the biggest news show, in a way that the experience is ’so foreign to them both. It’s the 500 pound gorilla in the room that nobody wants to pay attention to.’”
By Sunday (Dec. 4), TheBPlot had the attention of fancy-pants NBC execs on both coasts – and the fab Kathie Lee - as the great Daily News column “Rush and Molloy” and New York’s #1 online gossip column Gawker.com picked up Asbury Park’s most read features site’s exclusive story and ran with it. See clips below.
Three minutes into Monday’s show, Kathie Lee began her two minute Tiger Woods dialogue with, “Having experience in this area…”
“We all love Kathie Lee – she’s a pro,” said my snitch. ”It just didn’t make sense for her to not address the hottest topic in a more intimate way. With the Daily News picking up TheBPlot’s story got some people she listens to involved to restart the dialogue with her.”
“‘Today’ producers asked Kathie Lee Gifford if she’d talk about the Tiger Woods story by talking about her own memories of philandering husband Frank. ‘Absolutely not!’ bellowed Gifford, according to TheBPlot.com…” – New York Daily News
“…The Tiger Woods‘ affair story is the hot issue of the day, but, according to The B Plot, which is written by a former TV guy in New Jersey, Kathie Lee is adamant that she won’t talk about the scandal from a ‘personal point of view.’ When producers ask she apparently said, quite loudly, ‘Absolutely not will I rehash any of that horrible history in my life.’ So let’s get this straight, disclosures of nudity…” – Gawker.com’s Brian Moylan
Read the Daily News’ “Rush and Molloy” and Gawker.com every day for the latest on anything worth dishing about and keep reading TheBPlot for exclusives that keep the big guys checking in with Asbury Park for more!
Santa baby, forget sable (it’s gross), slip one of these luxe local gifts under the tree for me…and hurry down the chimney tonight…
THE THREE WISE MEN REALLY WANTED TO BRING THE GIFT OF GOSSIP: NEW “YOU SAY WHO“
Stunning “Make Me Blush” necklace [photo left] featuring hand cut stones tied around the neck with luscious silk charmeuse designed by beyond talented and fancy-pants jewelry designer – part-time Ocean Grove resident – Gerard Yosca. He is so modest about his talent his response when I asked to write about him, “Why would you want to write about me?” Yosca’s jewelry is sold in Henri Bendel and Bergdorf Goodman in NYC and exclusively at Bodega Shoppe, locally. $200.
Heaven’s 33-inch Cameo Glass Lamp features layer upon layer of colored glass carved so the various greens, blues and oranges of the mountainscape glow like nothing I have ever seen before when lit. Heaven on Cookman Avenue, $600.
At 22 pounds, the Strida 5.0 Folding Bike [photo right] weighs less than many women’s handbags and has no bike-chain (it has a belt made of Kevlar) so there is no mess no grease when your favorite commuter packs it up to jump on the train. Shelter Home, $800.
Cookman Avenue is home to one of the most dramatic, environmentally smart chandeliers around. The Michael McHale-designed 13-bulb square chandelier blends the discarded with the divine, featuring distressed brass pipes and fittings with the splendor of the finest Swarovski crystals. “Michael is known for using materials you never thought could be the cornerstone of such high end gorgeousness,” said Scott Hamm of Shelter Home. $6500.
Handmade “eclectic romantic” “Gretta” fantasy 21-inch tall clock and barometer made by Luna Bella. “All the clocks from this company are as if Tim Burton did furniture,” said Robert Legere, laughing. “And the ‘Gretta’ clock is on the tame side.” Robert Legere Home, $525.
Stunning English sterling silver sugar caster, circa 1899, by Thomas Bradbury of Sheffield England is nine inches in height and fully hallmarked. Shore Antiques Center, Allenhurst, $595.
Solid Bronze Recumbent Tiger [photo left], 19 inches in height, 49 inches toe to tail, circa 1960, finely detailed casting, features appealing patina. Shore Antiques Center, $2800.
Twelve months of unlimited yoga classes for your favorite Yogini. Multiple classes daily at Yoga Bliss. Yoga Bliss in Wanamassa, $1500.
The wine lover on your fantasy gift list will loose their grapes over a limited edition reserve of Abacus Cabernet Sauvignon [photo right] by ZD Wines. A carefully blended mix of 10 vintages, this wine is said to have “the vitality of youth, carefully blended with the complexity of age.” Who wouldn’t want that in a beverage…or a man? Spirits Unlimited in Wanamassa, $344.
No doubt 2009 was a tough year. That said, we are so beyond lucky and blessed in so many ways there is no better time to give back than during the holidays.
TheBPlot reader, Heather Jensen of Asbury Park, sent in a few super-fantastic socially conscious charity gift suggestions…
Kiva
Kiva is the world’s first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend to unique entrepreneurs around the globe. Kiva’s mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. Click here for more.
WIN THE ASBURY PARK FIREFIGHTER CALENDAR - TWEET OR EMAIL 'CALENDAR' TO THEBPLOT
Donors Choose – an Asbury Park classroom
Donors Choose helps us help Asbury Park – or other city’s – teachers. You can browse project requests posted by teachers and give any amount to the one that makes your eye twinkle. Once a project reaches its funding goal, Donors Choose delivers the specific materials to the school. You get photos of your project taking place, a thank-you letter from the teacher, and a cost report showing how each dollar was spent. If you give over $100, you’ll also receive hand-written thank-you letters from the students.
As of deadline, there were five requests from teachers in Asbury Park. Mrs. N says, “My students need three sets of High Interest Books for Reluctant Readers, levels 5-7.” Mrs. K says, “I was hired as the school’s first basic skills teacher to support students who cannot be offered classified educational services. My students need stamps, charts, music CDs, phonics and other materials that can be used for hands-on instruction.” Click here for Asbury Park teacher requests.
Lend For Peace
Founded by two Jews and two Palestinians, LendforPeace was created to enable people of all faiths and backgrounds to make a tangible difference in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Using this site, you can make a loan directly to a vetted micro-entrepreneur in the West Bank.Click here for more.
Best Friends Animal Society
For more than 25 years, Best Friends Animal Society has been guided by a simple philosophy: kindness to animals builds a better world for all of us. As the flagship of a grassroots network of people and organizations that care about animals, Best Friends continues to place dogs and cats who were considered “unadoptable” into good homes, and to reduce the number of unwanted pets through effective spay and neuter programs. A better world through kindness to animals.
Best Friends is the organization that rehabilitated some of Michael Vick’s dogs when other companion animal organizations said they should be euthanized. Click here for more.
While we are on the topic of benevolance, Asbury Bark [photo left] is hosting its annual Pet Photos with Santa, Saturday (Dec. 12) from noon until 4 pm. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Greyhound Friends of New Jersey. Call to reserve a time or for more info: 732.775.4801.
The Asbury Park holiday season sparkles with the 9th Annual “Season’s Readings” with the usual mix of old and new stories, poems, good cheer and refreshments - courtesy of the fab Frank D’Allesandro and Stephen Crane’s house.
The evening is a wonderful, local tradition filled with spirit and smiles. If you have never been to The Crane House, this is the perfect performace to come and be introduced to another Asbury Park treasure. Thanks to Frank, entering the home is like crossing your favorite family member’s threshold – welcoming, vibrant anticipation of the fun to come and great food.
“For those who wish to remain after the readings, we will screen Jean Shepherd’s 1983 comedy “Christmas Story,” said Frank, secretly one of the best bakers in town. ”Seating is extremely limited so please RSVP to make sure there is room at the inn.”
No admission charge, but any and all donations gladly accepted in cash or check made out to the Asbury Park Little League.
9th Annual “Seasons Greetings,” Sunday, December 13, 4 pm. ”A Christmas Story” screens at approximately 6:15 pm. The Crane House: 508 4th Avenue, Asbury Park.
For the past six weeks, “TheBPlot” and “The Coaster” have been your exclusive source for the most info, most photos, most of anything and everything related to the first-ever Asbury Park Firefighter Calendar. This, our last article in the series, focuses on the successful launch of the calendar Saturday.
Fourteen Asbury Park Firefighters can now add “model” to their impressive resume – which already includes “hero” and “role-model” – after the launch of the 2010 Asbury Park Firefighter Calendar Saturday evening.
More than 600 fans attended the three-hour premier party sponsored by ArtsCAP, many holding the multiple calendars they purchased and a pen to retrieve autographs from the ladder men.
‘Y’ CHROMOSOME PARTY GOERS ASK ‘WHY?’… ‘B’ PLOT GUY RETURNS TO HOWARD STERN… ‘X’ RATED PUBLIC SHENANIGANS… & MORE GOSSIP THAT’S BETTER THAN ALPHABET SOUP ON A WET AND COLD DECEMBER AFTERNOON
“We were standing ten-deep to get an autograph from any one of the guys,” said Dawn Brindle, who came to Asbury Park from her home in North Plainfield for the evening to watch the tree lighting, shop, dine and, of course, meet the firefighters she read about in The Coaster. “They were running out of ink they were signing so many calendars.”
The evening was filled with holiday joy and Asbury Park pride. Many of the firefighter’s family members – kids, parents, grandparents, great-grandparents – were also in attendance.
“That calendar party was a great Asbury event,” said City Manager Terry Reidy. “People really got to bond with the firefighters and the calendar itself is incredible. Really great quality. Each of the firefighter’s personalities comes through on their respective pages.”
Ten-year firefighting veteran Gavino Siciliano was revealed as the cover guy Saturday. Mike Mautner, 24 year firefighter, is featured on the back cover photo. Inside the calendar the firefighters for each month are: Carney Conklin, January; Andre Spann, February; Rick Dawson, March; Jamar Stephens, April; Christian Stevens, May, Ronald Slinger, June; Courtland Heyniger, July; Marcus Blackmon, August; Jon Hart, September; Rich Dreyer, October; Patrick Castellano; November; Jason Fazio, December. The calendar was dedicated to the memory of Robert J. Busch, Sr.
“I am so proud of our hometown heroes,” said resident Carolyn Curtin.
Asbury Park resident Alan Barnett served as photographer and designer. “The Coaster’s” TheBPlot’s Richard Virgilio served as copywriter. Madison Marquette donated the space for the launch exhibit.
“I do think that the fire department should be skeptical when receiving emergency calls requesting Mr. December,” said Pasqualina Delucia, Madison Marquette, laughing. “Seriously, we were honored to help such a great cause.”
The $15 calendars – proceeds benefit the Firefighter Building Fund and ArtsCAP – are available at Flying Saucers, Shelter Home, Mike’s Beach House and Bodega Shoppe and at ArtsCAP.com.
NEW YORK DAILY NEWS' #1 GOSSIP COLUMN MENTIONS ASBURY PARK'S #1 FEATURES SITE: - "Today" producers asked Kathie Lee Gifford if she'd talk about the Tiger Woods story by talking about her own memories of philandering husband Frank. "Absolutely not!" bellowed Gifford, according to TheBplot.com." DEC. 6
NYC'S #1 GOSSIP WEBSITE FEATURES THEBPLOT IN "THE ONE THING KATHIE LEE WON'T DO FOR RATINGS"
Make “Bought in AP” – or within a few blocks of it – your new holiday mantra with these 20 fabulous gifts for $20 or less…
1. One-of-a-kind, hand-blown holiday ornaments in brilliant swirled reds, blues, lavenders and oranges. $20, Hot Sand
2. Draft Stop, filled with fir needles, fills a home with the relaxing scent of winter while blocking a drafty door or window sill. $18, Comfort Zone, (Ocean Grove)
4. “I’m saving up for plastic surgery” tin piggy bank by Blue Q. $9, Style Rocket
5. Maison Bouche chocolate bars are “the bomb” according to store owner Michael Buess. The best-selling flavor is Fleur DeSel, milk chocolate with sea salt. $7, Bodega Shoppe
6. Glittering and “decked out” Swan Gift Baskets. “The swan is the unofficial mascot of Asbury Park,” said Michael Buess, who glitters and adorns the 24-inch festive fowl. $18, Bodega Shoppe
7. Fair trade Batik aprons handmade in Ghana feature lovely nature-inspired prints in four colors. $15, Organic Style
8. The 2010 Asbury Park Firefighter Calendar. Proceeds benefit the Fire Department Building Fund and ArtsCAP. $15, Shelter Home, Flying Saucers, ArtsCAP.
9. Stunning three-piece set of salt and pepper shaker and mustard pot from Heaven. The store features a number of collector-worthy sets including: sterling silver, silverplate, Lustreware and ceramic in all shapes and sizes.Two of my favorites sets are the silverplate Georgian-style and the brass with mother-of-pearl embellishments. Sets from $20, Heaven
10. Sweater-tights for women. “Everyone who buys them loves them,” said the salesgirl at Stacy Gemma. “They are slimming and warm” and come in four colors. $20, Stacy Gemma
11. “Smell My Nuts” 65% soy, sootless candle - that smells like banana bread. $7, Master Bath Boutique in the Arcade
12. Elegant jewelry designed and made by a co-op of women in Afghanistan. “It’s taken more than a year for the government there to allow the jewelry out of the country and I am so happy to have it here,” said Nancy Ehrlich, owner, Organic Style – the fabulous fair trade store on Cookman Avenue. The original designs of green glass flowers, brown Boxite and Camelian bead accents is modern and stylish for your friends and life-changing for the Afghani women. $15, Organic Style
13. Hand puppet theatre. The joy possibilities are endless with Chef Alfedo Al Dente, Ballerina Tina Prima, Cowgirl Sally Sidesaddle and the 15 other cartoon-like felt puppets by Melisa & Doug Puppets. $19.99, Comfort Zone, (Ocean Grove)
14. Japanese Piperoid Paper Robots and friend – named Antonio and Syrup or Shishitaro and Komajiro - look like you went to the MOMA to holiday shop but it’s our secret you went to Shelter Home for these adorable, cool and crafty paper creations. $15, Shelter Home
15. Wool “Brown Bear” winter hat handmade in the Himalayas. Also comes in Tiger, Penguin, Owl, Cat and Pig styles. $14, The Emporium (Ocean Grove)
16. The best freshly roasted in Asbury Park coffee from Asbury Roastery is always a welcome gift. One pound of the famous “hearty” Holiday Blend. $10, Asbury Roastery
17. Table saw-shaped cake, bread and lettuce slicer made of sharp plastic. $13, Flying Saucers
18. The gift of a “Couples Night Out” with a pair of movie passes to one of The Showroom’s fantastic screenings. I frequently say that the theatre is the “best of all worlds – comfy like your living room, fancy-pants like your best friend’s media room and exciting like a New York art-house theatre’ room.” $16 for two tickets, The Showroom on Cookman Avenue
19. Organic loose leaf cranberry tea gift boxes. From $7, Asbury Roastery
20. Fabulous home accessory “finds” – including items from Tiffany & Co., Wedgewood (including Queen Elizabeth Coronation pattern dinnerware from 1953) Rosewood, Fire King and much more. $.10 and higher. Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore thrift store on Third Avenue
PLUS: My absolute favorite kitchen tool – it makes preparing salads ultra simple and reinvented peeling potatoes, carrots, asparagus and cucumbers for me. It is the Swissmar Peeler. Any chef on your list will love you for years to come if you gift them with this peeler. The gift doesn’t have a lot of “wow” but the first time the recipient uses it they will say “Ooooooo.” It is super-sharp (and stays that way), ergonomically designed and pretty. $4, Johnson’s Restaurant Supply (Neptune)
Company’s product description: The Swissmar Stainless Steel Peeler with a straight blade is an indispensable tool to have in your kitchen. The integrated side cutter is designed for removing potato eyes or blemishes, or to cut decorative grooves into fruits and vegetables. The harp-shaped handle is designed for easier, less stressful peeling. The perpendicular cutting edge allows for a more natural, up and down peeling motion.
Next week: socially conscience gifting and local luxe gifts to splurge or fantasize about. Santa, Baby!
Last Saturday - a gorgeous, brilliantly sunny day - Truman took his post-Thanksgiving turkey-filled stomach, north to hunt for his Christmas tree from the Holiday Tree Farm in Augusta, New Jersey. He caught a seven-foot Douglas Fir on which he plans to put 1100 white lights and a glowing 12-inch tree-topping star.
“It was nice to have a break from hanging with the two kittens that have invaded my house,” said Truman of his new housemates Hedda (grey) and Parson (black) [photo above left]. “There are two more healthy, purrrfect kittens that need a good home, if you know of anyone.”
Truman shared some photos exclusively with TheBPlot readers…
WIN THE 2010 ASBURY PARK FIREFIGHTER CALENDAR: TWITTER OR EMAIL THEBPLOT WITH THE WORD 'CALENDAR' NOW!!!
A local reader was invited to the American Music Awards’ Celebrity Gift Tent last Saturday (Nov. 21) to promote his new, fab product and wanted to give TheBPlot readers the first scoop.
If you have not heard, the deal with swag tents basically is that companies offer free product and the celebs whore themselves out for free sneakers, sunglasses, jewelry, etc. by letting their photo be taken with the product. In the end, if it is somewhat of a relevant celebrity, the companies get free publicity by sending the photos to magazines such as People, US Weekly and InStyle and saying “Look, so-and-so uses our product - will you write an article?” A lot of the time it works out for everyone.
Our local inventor / snitch went big-time with the small-time celebs and dishes about swag-hungry, holiday gift-getting celebs, in his own words:
“Well, being part of the AMA swag tent sure was an experience. There were about 43 vendors. I learned afterwards that the top celebs don’t come to the event, but the B C and D-list people do – with their friends. Plenty of kids under 15 years old do too.
“One hundred ten ‘names’ attended and I’ve got photos of almost every one of them who took our stuff. I met many ‘has been’ stars and ‘want to be’ stars, several stars from soap operas, Carnie Wilson, two rappers, a few from TV shows (‘LA Ink’, ‘V’ and a few others), kids from the Disney Channel with their swag hungry parents, the Olympic Water Polo Team, a loooong since retired Hall of Famer from the LA Dodgers.
“A few film directors came for product, including a major science fiction series director who is about 90 years old and couldn’t hear or see to even know what he was looking at. Finally, a very famous TV chef - who the fattest guy in the room ran over and hugged for what seemed like forever – was there and loved our product.
“Max and Tony from ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and Sheila E [photo left] were great and hung out with us for a while.
“Only one celeb objected to photos and still took product – Morena Baccarin from the ABC televisions series ‘V’ [third from right in photo, right]. She’s obviously new to the scene and when this show is over she will be done and not realize how lucky she was.
“Every other celeb was more than willing to take photos. We made sure they had fun, and enjoyed the picture-taking – and it shows in the photos.
“The truth and truly sad fact is that many of the celebs came to get free stuff to give to their friends and family for the holidays. They’d discuss with their family members openly ‘Okay, I’ll give this to Auntie May, and give that to my best friend Charlotte, and this to ….’
“The free stuff they were getting from other vendors included really expensive shoes, purses, candy, computer software, earrings, dolls, make-up, perfume and tons more.
“I’ve been invited to the Oscars in March. More on that after the holidays. The word is that more celebs, bigger celebs will attend that gift event. And I guess they won’t be stocking up on Christmas gifts!!! Maybe.”
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! I AM BEYOND THANKFUL TO EACH OF YOU - THEBPLOT'S VALUED READERS AND SUPPORTERS. THANK YOU ALWAYS FOR INVESTING YOUR CHERISHED FREE TIME IN VISITING THE SITE AND READING THE COASTER. CHEERS!!!
TheBPlot.com presents an extended exclusive Q & A, in which photographer Joe Oppedisano reveals the new gay “look,” tips for making your own racy home movie and more…
Bears, Otters, Wolves, Cubs – it will be an adult version of Animal Planet, Saturday (Nov. 28) at RIDE, a party produced by Brad Hurtado, for the bear and leather communities the evening of the Santa Saturday benefit.
“Thanks to the thousands of men who pour into town for a daytime benefit, the weekend has become a really great time to play in our city” said Brad. “This year, all those randy men will be at the Stone Pony after the benefit for a night of sweaty fun.”
‘NO FOOD FOR YOU’ SAYS RESTAURANT OWNER TO EMPLOYEES… ‘HONESTY SYSTEM’ ANTIQUE DEALER… FISHY DONATION TO JENKINSON’S AQUARIUM… & MORE GOSSIP IN “YOU SAY WHO” FROM THE GUY WHO CHOOSES ‘SIDES’ OVER TURKEY ON THANKSGIVING
I spoke with Joe Oppedisano, photographer – known for his iconic hyper-masculine images – who will shoot a performance art piece with super-sexy models for his next project in the middle of RIDE.
TBP: I need to get this out of the way – you worked with one of my all-time favorite people, the gorgeous Amy Sedaris (“Sex in the City,” “Strangers With Candy”) [photo right] whose brother wrote about her hating to look glam in photos. The photos you took are both glam and awkward. Tell me everything.
Joe: Amy and I have been friends and neighbors for 15 years. She needed press shots to promote her book “I Like You…” so I begged her to let me make her glam. She came out of the dressing room with an amazing dress and fake flies all over her face.
She has a great sense of herself and knows what she wants. That’s why she has the gay boys wrapped around her finger.
TBP: Levi Johnston (the bane of Sarah Palin’s existence) just…err… famously did his photo shoot for Playgirl. How would you have photographed him?
Joe: (Laughing) I think he is heaven. He came out of nowhere and now is everywhere. I would like to photograph him on a set like the White House lawn surrounded by political powerhouses in farm-type clothes holding pitchforks and shovels – very American Gothic.
TBP: Who is a bigger inspiration to you, James Dean, Joan Crawford or Brad Hurtado?
Joe: Brad and Joan are neck and neck…they are both such big b&%$#@!.
TBP: Ha. So, what can we expect with your performance art show during RIDE?
Joe: Expect a lot honey…and I am going to give you more than that. It’s going to be hot. I am bringing at least four models.
One model, a Hothouse exclusive, Junior Stellano, grew up in Asbury Park. He is the epitome of the Latin-Italian super hunk. Naturally ripped. Gorgeous as can be.
Another model who is coming is Chris Raucci [photo right]. He is 25 years old and the 2010 version of a twink and he loves bears.
TBP: What actually is a bear in the gay world? Is Brad Pitt with that new shaggy beard a bear?
Joe: I think a bear is a gay man, over 40 years old, who is hyper-masculine and can’t be bothered spending 15 hours grooming or eating salads. Brad Pitt is just annoying.
TBP: After this weekend, I am betting everyone will have had a lesson in “bear.”
TBP: You are also a videographer. Any advice for guys planning on sexting or making an adult film of their own later on in the evening?
Joe: (laughs) It’s all about lighting. It’s all about angles…good close ups. Just have fun…and go for it. I have done two adult films.
TBP: Out community has gone through muscle guys, twinks, smooth guys and more. What is the up-and-coming new “gay look”?
Joe: I am sooo into the next generation right now…guys who are 25 and under. There are so many beautiful boys. The kid Chris I spoke about earlier has the new look – not a twink, green eyes, skinny ripped body – shredded with a great attitude.
Friendly reminder: Saturday (Nov. 28), from 7 to 10 pm, TheBPlot and The Coaster readers are invited to the launch party for the 2010 Asbury Park Firefighters calendar in the Third Avenue Pavilion. Click here for your invitation. Which month will your favorite firefighter represent?
Only at the TheBPlot and in The Coaster will you find an exclusive interview with Madison Marquette’s Pasqualina Delucia.
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE BOARDWALK HOLIDAY EVENT LISTINGS
The fab Pasque took the time to reveal the company’s new focus after the recession, plans for Summer 2010, recent staff changes, with a point of assuaging fan’s concerns about potentially stalled progress on their beloved boardwalk.
TBP: With a smaller team (Courtney and Megan most recently gone) working towards Madison Marquette and the beachfront’s goals, boardwalk fans are concerned about the area’s future progress and next summer. What will change? What is going on?
Pasqualina: It’s true that we are leaner at the moment. We are shifting our focus from construction to programming, marketing and retail operations – making the boardwalk an even more vibrant and exciting shopping and entertainment experience. To that goal, we will be bringing in additional key members to our staff, such as a Retail Manager and Marketing Coordinator.
In the interim, we have an amazing extended team stepping in to assist with events, marketing and programming. This includes, but is not limited to Jonathan Badaracco, manager of The Beach Bar, Teresa Minnick, manager of Wesley Grove and also strong support for our Washingon, DC group.
Also, we can’t forget Boardwalk tenants and Asbury Park community members who have lent – and hopefully will continue to lend – their support and involvement. We are thankful for everyone’s efforts.
We will definitely continue to program great events in 2010 - even more than in 2009. We are committed to doing more with less.
Not to worry, Madison Marquette is dedicated to ensuring waterfront projects will continue to grow exponentially in years to come.
Read The Coaster every week for the most current news about the waterfront, boardwalk and surrounding cities.
Beyond ooogling the gorgeous holiday display at Bodega Shoppe or sampling the best selection of holiday treats at Candyteria or sipping a delish sparkling cocktail creation at Watermark while gazing at the frigid beach or even buying the perfect shirt that hugs in all the right places at Style Rocket, the Asbury Park boardwalk has tons of fun on deck for you and your friends.
Again, TheBPlot isthe most convenient source to help you save the date and plan a festive holiday schedule. Tweet it. Print it. Save it. Just use it. See you under the beachfront mistletoe…
FRIDAY, NOV. 27:
Come to the Boardwalk on November 27th for Turquoise Friday: The Boardwalk version of Black Friday where you can escape the stress of the mall and stroll, shop and dine in relaxed comfort.
SATURDAY, NOV. 28:
6 pm: The lighting of the 40 Foot Christmas Tree in the Grand Arcade. The tree lighting will be accompanied by the arrival of the Rock and Roll Chorus and a Rock and Roll Santa.
7 pm to 10 pm: The Asbury Park Firefighter 2010 Calendar is unveiled in the Third Avenue Pavillion. Which month will you favorite firefighter represent? Click here for TheBPlot’s exclusive behind the scenes photos and story.
8pm: The fun shifts inside for Roller Derby in Convention Hall.
SUNDAY, NOV. 29:
Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas Santa will be in the Grand Arcade for photos.
SATURDAY, DEC. 5:
2 pm: The quintessential holiday event, The Nutcracker, will be performed by the Performing Arts Ensemble, in the legendary Paramount Theatre.
8 pm: The All Stars Comedy in Convention Hall featuring Red Grant, Luenell, Michael Blackson, Joe Clair, Gary Owen and Joe Torry.
FRIDAY, DEC. 11:
6 pm to 11:30 pm: Sip, Shop & Rock Holiday Party from Metromix Jersey Shore and the Asbury Park Boardwalk in the Grand Arcade and Paramount Theater. Drink, eat through the vendor village. Bad Santa showing in Paramount Theater. Band (provided by Shore Alternative), food and drinks in Arcade following movie.
FRIDAY, DEC. 18:
4 pm to 8 pm: Bring your pet to have photos taken with Santa in the Grand Arcade.
SATURDAY, DEC. 19:
Noon to 8 pm: Brielle Cyclery will be flashing back to the 80’s with its BMX Flash Back. Bikes will be on display. Check out the vintage bikes and watch old videos and see what the history of BMX is about.
1 pm (begins): The Ocean Ave Flatland Jam going on in the Grand Arcade. Check out the show as freestyle BMXers from all over the country show off their different styles.
7 pm: BMX After Party featuring Barry and the Penatrators, Shooter Mcgavan, and Ducks and Drakes at the Wonder Bar. Bands start at 8. Raffles will be going on all night long.
SUNDAY, DEC. 20:
11 am through the day: Asbury Park Film Initiative and the Asbury Park Boardwalk are hosting a day of children’s movies in Paramount Theatre (free admission to all movies).
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 23:
8 pm: Asbury Park Film Initiative presents It’s a Wonderful Life in the magnificent and historic Paramount Theater (as part of the dinner and a movie series). Escape the- rushing around and make it your new holiday tradition.
Mayor Ed Johnson, City Manager Terry Reidy, terrestrial beings and other-worldly spirits celebrated the launch of Paranormal Books & Curiosities’ new Paranormal Museum, Friday (Nov 13, appropriately) and its first exhibition – “The Jersey Devil: Expedition of 1812.”
WHERE WILL THIS HOTTIE BE ON SATURDAY AND WHAT DOES HE HAVE PLANNED FOR YOU? ALSO, LOCAL INVENTOR DISHES ABOUT SUNDAY'S AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS' SWAG TENT: ALL WILL BE REVEALED IN THE COASTER AND THEBPLOT, WEDNESDAY (NOV. 25)
“The museum is the culmination of years of work and research,” said Kathy Kelly, curator and owner. “Everyone is invited to come, explore and decide for themselves.”
The museum – great for all ages – reveals many little-known and never-before-known facts about the Leeds Devil (aka the Jersey Devil) and every confirmed sighting across the state. It seems the Devil gets around more than an Asbury Park hooker, my friends – it doesn’t limit itself to the Pine Barrens.
Hottie Josh Gates of SyFy Channel’s “Destination Truth” just spent a day at the museum researching the Jersey Devil and taped an episode to air in March, according to the show’s website.
Check out photos from the event - only at TheBPlot:
TheBPlot was the first to bring you the scoop on the making of the Asbury Park Firefighter Calendar and the only outlet to take you behind the scenes of the photo shoot (click here). Today, The Coaster and TheBPlot are the only media with the full-story.
The first Asbury Park Firefighter calendar will be unveiled next Saturday (Nov. 28) at the Third Avenue Pavilion, revealing an another wonderful side of some of the city’s biggest heroes.
I had the honor of bearing witness to the photo shoot, spending time with our beyond-amazing firefighters and I could not wait to tell you about it – here and in The Coaster – before any other publications.
“We have joked about doing a calendar for years at the firehouse,” said Chief Kevin Keddy, leader of the busiest fire department, per capita, in New Jersey. “I thought it was a great idea when ArtsCAP approached me after the Fall golf outing.”
WHINY STRIPPERS ARE NOT CUTE… BELLIGERENT BANK MANAGERS AREN’T EITHER… BUT ‘SAFE’ WORDS AND BRIBING PEOPLE TO BE QUIET SURE IS FUNNY. “YOU SAY WHO” – GOSSIP ALMOST AS DELISH AS YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S PUMPKIN PIE
The 2010 calendar, proceeds benefitting the Fire Department Building Fund and ArtsCAP, was photographed over two days in late October with fourteen ladder men (one for each month and the front and back covers).
As award-winning photographer Alan Barnett’s camera began to click, the new models quickly became competitive; attempting to ensure their photo was the best by grabbing cool props including gear, saws, hoses and even the Jaws of Life.
“Their enthusiasm was contagious,” said Alan. “When Jason Fazio appeared for his shoot, he had already applied mineral oil to his arms and he good-naturedly tried to outdo his friend Gavino by choosing a larger axe as a prop. When I asked if he would scale a ladder to the second story of the firehouse, he was up there before I could focus my camera.”
Wives, fiancé and even one mother-in-law stopped by to check out the making of the calendar, encouraging the guys further and energizing the interviews I conducted to develop a backgrounder to accompany calendar photo.
“These guys are beautiful inside and out and we hope everyone sees that more now,” commented Michele Conklin, Firefighter Conklin’s wife, via TheBPlot.com.
Purchase the calendar for $15 and learn who considers himself shy and is looking for an extraverted lady, who wanted to “chase fires, not money,” who has “too many tattoos to mention” and who enjoys classic Russian literature.
One hysterical firefighter asked me to describe his “marital status as complicated” however I thought he might not find it as funny in 2010, so I left that comment out.
Every one of the firefighters I had the pleasure of meeting during the 16 hour shoot – many more than the 14 who are part of the calendar – was a kind, selfless, dedicated and fearless gentleman. All honest-to-goodness life-saving heroes in the flesh.
Buy one of them lunch or a cup of coffee the next time you see him.
“Bringing together two very important institutions was great,” said Dennis Carroll, president, ArtsCAP. “I was most delighted with the hospitality – we all felt like were members of the department when we left.”
The fourteen firefighters (twelve months plus one cover guy and one back-cover guy) – their names revealed here for the first time – who generously participated in the making of the calendar and deserve our thanks: Marcus Blackmon, Patrick Castellano, Carney Conklin, Rick Dawson, Rich Dreyer, Jason Fazio, Jon Hart, Courtland Heyniger, Mike Mautner, Gavino Siciliano, Ronald Slinger, Andre Spann, Jamar Stephens and Christian Stevens.
Aaaaaand on top of everything, I had once-in-a-lifetime Asbury Park moment; I slid down the gorgeous, original, brass, 30 foot long, finial topped fire pole…twice!
So which of the equally fab firefighters will be the 2010 cover guy? Which month will your favorite firefighter represent? All will be revealed on Nov. 28th. Launch party is 7 pm to 10 pm at the Third Avenue Pavilion. TheBPlot reader’s invitation, click here.
The calendar will be available through ArtsCAP.org and local businesses, including: Bodega, Heaven, Mike’s Beach House and Shelter Home. Supplies are limited.
UPDATE Dec. 28: “Too Much Money” is Dominick’s dishiest book ever. He always delivered in his books however this time, posthumously, he gives it his all – celebs and society people are so lightly veiled the reader gets unparallelled insight into the fancy pants lives of the ultra fancy pants.
The book is as close to being in the Park Avenue sitting rooms and private planes of the rich and famous without getting arrested. Every turn of the page is an “OMG I can’t believe that was happening” while the public was being spoon-fed the vanilla version from all the media. Dominick gives us the yummy chocolate dish we want. Totally great read!!!
Nov. 19: This week, TheBPlot reprints a pinch of Page Six’s scoop “Novel Bares Dunne’s Secret,” about Dominick Dunne’s new book “Too Much Money” in stores Dec. 15. Only at TheBPlot will you find the exclusive first-scoop storyline details and a first-look at the gorgeous art deco-inspired cover of “Too Much Money.”
One of the best modern writers - famous for revealing the cracks in high-society’s foundation – Dominick Dunne (a Vanity Fair “must read first” correspondent) passed away this summer, however not before completing potentially one of his most revealing tomes ever, “Too Much Money,” on shelves courtesy of Crown Publishers Dec. 15.
Page Six:
Dunne outs himself in a conversation between Dunne’s character, Gus, and Gus’ attorney…
Lawyer: “Oh, you know, that you’re deep in the closet.”
Gus: “Well, maybe I am . . . So what. What you haven’t heard is that I’ve been celibate for almost 20 years.”
Gus: “Yes, I did . . . I feel quite relieved . . . I’m beyond 80 . . . Mustn’t have any more secrets. Can’t die with a secret, you know. I’m nervous about the kids, even though they’re middle-aged men now. Not that they don’t already know, I just never talk about it. It’s been a lifelong problem.”
The great Page Six continued, “Old friends of Dunne recall that his lover in the 1970s was Frederick Combs, who starred onstage in “The Boys in the Band” and in the movie version which Dunne produced in 1970 after leaving his wife, Lenny. “They were very much in love,” said one friend.”
Any avid follower of Dunne might conclude that the character Kyle Cramden is based on former congressman Gary Condit, Konstantin Zacharias is based on Edmund Safra and Perla Zacharias is based on Dunne’s personal experiences with Lily Safra. Which I looooooove.
TheBPlot First Scoop:
In “Too Much Money,” Dunne revives the world he first introduced in his mega-bestselling novel “People Like Us”, and brings readers up to date on favorite characters such as Ruby and Elias Renthal, Lil Altemus and, of course, the beloved Gus Bailey. Once again, he invites us to pull up a seat at the most important tables at Swifty’s and venture into the innermost chambers of the Upper East Side’s most sumptuous mansions.
Gus Bailey’s propensity for gossip has finally gotten him into trouble—$11 million worth. His problems begin when he falls hook, line, and sinker for a fake story from an unreliable source and repeats it on a radio program. As a result of his flip comments, Gus becomes embroiled in a nasty slander suit brought by Kyle Cramden, the powerful congressman he accuses of being involved in the mysterious disappearance of a young woman. Gus fears this could mean the end of him.
The stress of the lawsuit makes it difficult for Gus to focus on the novel he has been contracted to write, which is based on the suspicious death of billionaire Konstantin Zacharias. It is a story that has dominated the party conversations of Manhattan’s chattering classes for more than two years.
Zacharias’ convicted murderer is behind bars but Gus is not convinced that justice was served. There are too many unanswered questions, such as why a paranoid man who was usually accompanied by bodyguards was without protection the very night he perished in a tragic fire.
Konstantin’s hot-tempered widow, Perla, is obsessed with climbing the social ladder and, as a result, she will do anything to suppress this potentially damaging story and Gus is convinced she is the only thing standing between him and the truth.
“Too Much Money” is a dishy, exhilarating, fun, mischievous and compulsively readable tale by the most brilliant society chronicler of our time – the man who knew all the secrets and wasn’t afraid to share them.
Mr. Dominick Dunne is missed greatly - Vanity Fair is not the same without him.
RIP, Dominick Dunne (1926 - with a lot of amazing joy brought to a lot of people around the world, in between - 2009)
Reserve your copy of “Too Much Money” at Amazon today.
The Found Footage Festival guys, Nick Prueher and Joe Pickett, reveal the best thrift store in America and more in this web exclusive. For TheBPlot’s interview last week, also published in The Coaster, click here.
Nick and Joe’s brilliant show is this Saturday (Nov. 14) at Asbury Lanes, 10 pm. Doors open way earlier.
TPB: How do you two decide whether a clip makes it in show? Do you guys wrestle if you disagree?
Nick Prueher (Co-Curator, Found Footage Festival): For us, the litmus test on whether a video makes the show is whether it is unintentionally funny. Whatever the video was trying to do, it has to fail colossally, but in an entertaining way.
We came to heads recently over how much of this “Rich Little VCR Charades” video to include in our VCR Games montage. Rich Little keeps breaking out into these terrible impressions for no reason at all. It’s painful, so the debate was how much could people handle. I lobbied for less, but Joe wanted more. We settled on something in between.
TBP: Does the clip have to be old school and on VHS to be considered? Are YouTube and EBay part of your research or solely brick and mortar thrift stores and audience members?
Nick: We are decidedly old-school when it comes to video procurement, so we don’t take anything off the internet. All of our videos are turned up by digging through video bins at thrift stores, browsing garage sales and even searching in garbage cans. To us, the story of how we found a video is just as important as what’s on it, so taking footage off YouTube seems like cheating.
If anyone has found a video in or around Asbury Park, we highly encourage them to bring it to the show. We love meeting people and hearing the stories of how they found particular tapes – it’s how we keep the show going.
TPB: What’s a clip that has not made it in the show but is memorable?
Nick: There is one video that I’ll never forget, no matter how hard I try. It was this tape that a fan sent in to guitarist Steve Vai to win his affection. In it, this young woman performs various odd sexual stunts that I can’t really describe in mixed company. It’s pretty goofy, but the woman clearly has a few screws loose, so it’s a little more disturbing than funny.
TBP: Do you see current-day clips that would be in the show 15 years from now? Ever think, “I wish I could put that in the show now” – like a clip with Paula Abdul?
Nick: Oh yeah, sometimes you don’t need any time or distance to appreciate something ironically. The one DVD I bought as soon as it came out was R. Kelly’s “Trapped In a Closet” opus. And just a couple of years ago, we found a DVD in a thrift store that was a training video for Elvis impersonators.
TBP: In the Found Footage Festival, you use clips featuring Rue McClanahan, Goldie Hawn and other celebs. Do you ever hear from the celebs or other subjects in your show?
Nick: We haven’t heard from any of the celebs in our show, but we love tracking down the subjects of our videos. Hearing from Julia Roberts really wouldn’t do much for me, but meeting the stunt man in an insurance safety video was a dream come true.
TBP: The Asbury Park area has some great thrift stores. What are some of the best thrift stores across the country?
Nick: We’re really looking forward to hitting the Asbury Park thrift stores when we get to town. One of our favorite thrift stores of all time is this place called Bishop’s Attic in Anchorage, Alaska. It was this untapped goldmine of awesome VHS tapes.
TBP: If you found a Michael Jackson clip would you use it?
Nick: Most definitely…I wonder is “Captain EO” ever turned up on VHS.
TBP: Finally…Nick, you worked at The Colbert Report which is the absolutely most consistently brilliant show on TV. How did you get the politicians to sit down with the show’s corespondents and answer those fab questions?
Nick: I don’t know exactly how it works, but people love being on TV, even if it means they may come off as jackasses. That basic principle has fueled “The Daily Show” and “Colbert” for many years.
Last week, my mom, read a short story that she wrote, at a workshop at the Crain House. Her writing was about her life in Poland prior to coming to America at 10 years old. A lot of the difficult memories she shares at her own pace, in her own way, in her own time with me still pain her greatly.
ANOTHER SECRETLY SELF-HATING HOMO… RESTAURANT MOGUL’S SECRET PAST REVEALED… HALLOWEEN ‘BRIDE’S’ TWELVE-WEEK-LONG SECRET… & MORE, err… SECRETS YOU WANT TO KNOW IN “YOU SAY WHO” NOW
I am so proud of my shy-ish mom for summoning the strength to tell one compelling story publicly. She has never, ever, shared any of her writing with anyone else before now. It has been 50 years in the making.
With her approval, I wanted to share her true story with you. It does not have a title. I don’t think it needs one right now:
It was early evening. Zosia (my cousin) and my Aunt Katherine were both trying to tie on the wings of my costume. I was an angel in the school’s Christmas Nativity Scene. We were sitting on the bed of what served as the kitchen / bedroom / living room of our small three-room home, located on a farm in Godowa, Poland.
The Germans had invaded and occupied Poland a few years before.
I was happy and giggling with pride over my costume. To a five year old, to be an angel – with a speaking part in an upper class man’s play – was a great honor.
Zosia and my Aunt shared my joy. Zosia, a few years older than me, was a skilled seamstress. She sewed the gown and made the fragile wings. My costume was beautiful.
As we fussed with the wings, we were startled by the loud bang of the kitchen door being thrown open. A man came in. He was a stranger. In a small farming town not too many strangers come to visit – especially after dark.
The stranger was in a Nazi uniform – a uniform that I, by now, had learned to recognize.
The stranger seemed angry and agitated and was shouting at us. I could barely understand what he was saying; as he was shouting he was pointing to a round object in his hand.
I realized it was a hand grenade.
“One of your neighbors reported that you are hiding a Jewish family in your stajnia (cellar),” he said. “Show me where they are or I will kill you.”
Again, pointing at the grenade.
My Aunt pleaded with him saying that we are not hiding anyone.
“Please take all the food you want,” she said. “Please don’t hurt the child.”
The man kept on shouting not hearing her pleas. He threw down the grenade into the center of the room.
We sat there – very still, silent – not daring to breathe.
The grenade was a dud. The grenade was a dud.
The stranger left as suddenly as he came.
Zosia, Aunt Katherine and I went to the Christmas Pageant. I was the best angel – I did not forget my lines.
By Sophie Stach Virgilio
Do you have a story you would like to share with your community? Email me: Richard@TheBPlot.com
FOLLOW THEBPLOT ON TWITTER - W/ MINIMAL TWEETS - & U R ENTERED TO WIN $100 IN DOG PRODUCTS
THEBPLOT = THE AREA’S #1 FEATURES SITE… AND GROWING EACH WEEK
Which month will your favorite firefighter represent?
Saturday, November 28. 7 pm to 10 pm
Third Avenue Pavillion, Asbury Park
===============
Light refreshments. Live music.
Calendars will be sold and firefighting heroes will be in attendance.
===============
Proceeds from the sale of the calendar benefit
the Fire Department Building Fund and ArtsCAP.
NEXT THURSDAY: THE COASTER & THEBPLOT TAKE YOU INSIDE THE FIREFIGHTER PHOTO SHOOT – BEFORE ANYONE ELSE – WITH THE FULL SCOOP AND MORE BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS!
For TheBPlot’s exclusive preview photos, published last week, click here.
Answers to the most common questions asked about “You Say Who” – the area’s only gossip column…
Q: Where does your information come from?
A: From you – from readers, from friends, from strangers, from people who work in the area or own businesses here, from local decision makers and influencers, from publicists.
At the recent Zombie Walk, someone stopped me at the Brick Wall while I was on my way to the bathroom to give me a tip. The column would not exist if it were not for sources - I am grateful for every one.
FOLLOW THEBPLOT ON TWITTER AND YOU’RE ENTERED TO WIN A $100 GIFT BASKET FOR YOUR DOG!!!
I guesstimate that 75 percent of the information I receive doesn’t have the substance behind it to publish is beyond mean or is inappropriate for TheBPlot. Also, there are some stories I have in my pocket that I believe will turn into something down the road however timing-wise or fact-wise, I can’t publish it right now.
Q: How do you know that a source is telling the truth?
A: I don’t. I check out every piece of information independently – by working the phone, email, internet and other sources. My name is behind everything on TheBPlot.com so I take a lot of time ensuring, as best I can, what’s on the site is solid. I also have a coterie of dear attorney friends who believe in this site and guide me as needed.
Working for Howard Stern and Maury Povich – pre-interviewing and screening hundreds of people every week – and briefly with the “National Enquirer”, I’ve developed a reflexive sense about who simply doesn’t have the whole story, who has a grudge and who is completely lying. Then there are also the sources who “pop” – these are the highly cherished sources who time and again come through with concrete info, quickly and succinctly.
Q: Will you reveal a source?
A: Never.
Q: Where did you get the idea for the column?
A: Lord knows I love pop culture and gossip. I read the autobiographies of some of the first – and best – gossip columnists Louella Parsons and Hedda Hopper (1930’s to 1960’s) and translated some of their ideas for Asbury Park. Hedda was the first to develop “blind items” – brief stories that dont mention the subjects name.
Today, I read the New York papers every day, flipping past the pressing news of the day first to my friend Richard Johnson’s “Page Six” and Cindy Adams’ column.
Q: Are the people you write about pissed?
A: Sometimes, probably and no. FYI, I have sources who give tips about themselves and their business partners and family, too. My goal is not to make people miserable – it’s to make readers laugh, think and talk. The soul of the column is meant to be fun.
The people who present themselves as believing gossip is beneath them or it “tarnishes” the site, are the same people who stop me at Wegman’s asking me who I wrote about last week in “You Say Who”.
Q: Who designed the photo in “You Say Who”?
A: The talented Billy Mecca, publisher of BeachBlog.me and SALT.
Q: Why have gosspy “You Say Who” on the site?
A: A growing city as great as Asbury Park – with a huge spectrum of personalities and projects – needed an outlet for the stuff thats going that most people want to know about but can’t be discussed in general conversations.
No matter what, most people love dish about their neighbors. The feedback has been positive and the numbers don’t lie - traffic for the site is up more than 1,000 percent since ”You Say Who” launched. It might be the Asbury Park area’s naughty little secret about secrets.
NEW (11.09.09): PURRRRFECT KITTENS NEED HOME. EMAIL Richard@TheBPlot.com.
One of the shows I produced at Maury Povich featured people who came across valuable objects in unusual ways.
A guest on “Found Money” was a gentleman who told an amazing story of going to a Salvation Army in Florida and finding nine dirty fabric panels that turned out to be one of the first real and complete flat maps of the Earth. It was priceless.
Nick Prueher and Joe Pickett have taken their pot-of-gold of video clips found at thrift stores around the country and created the Found Footage Festival – a brilliant and original comedy show, founded in 2004, combining the most iconic, hysterical and sometimes cringe-worthy 1980’s video clips with on-the-spot, live commentary.
GRANDE DAME OCEAN GROVE QUOTATIONS… DUNKIN’ DONUT QUOTATIONS… TAVERN’S TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS… & KITTENS! ALL IN “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW.
I spoke with the award-winning hosts, Nick, formerly of the David Letterman Show and The Colbert Report and Joe of The Onion, in anticipation of their show next Saturday (Nov. 14) at Asbury Lanes.
TPB: Every clip in your show is unbelievably great. What’s the recipe for a fab Found Footage clip?
Nick: Certainly, the nostalgia factor helps make certain videos great, but more than anything, we’ve found one common thread is that they involve people with a lot of ambition and very little talent. Luckily for us, there are plenty of people out there like that with access to video equipment.
TBP: Cartoon Chuck Norris with a lisp; men in wrestling singlets and thongs; Florence Henderson doing some odd neck movements with another girl – were the Reagan 80’s gayer than everyone realized?
Nick: Yes, the proliferation of mustaches should have been our first clue.
TBP: You guys are celebrating the show’s five-year anniversary. What are each of your favorite all-time clips?
Nick: It changes from time-to-time, but I’d have to say “Kirk’s 40th Birthday” is up there for me. It’s a home movie of a guy named Kirk and his biker friends celebrating his big day by eating a cake in the shape of naked woman, smoking an odd cigarette and watching ZZ Top videos.
Joe: I’m really enamored right now with an Austin (Texas) public access show called “At Home with English,” starring this adorable little man teaching English words to non-English speakers – it’s featured in our show.
TBP: You are premiering a brand new crop of clips at Asbury Lanes.
NP: Yes – expect overacting pirates, furniture salesman, blowgun enthusiasts, an anthropomorphic Rubik’s Cube, drunk guys without shirts and dozens of bachelors in bad sweaters (video dating)…and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
TBP: You guys have been friends since childhood. I have to ask, if you were boyfriends who would do the cooking and who would drive the car?
NP: I don’t like driving, so Joe would definitely be behind the wheel. By default, I would do the cooking, although I’m sure Joe would tire of my weird vegan recipes. Luckily, this nightmare scenario will never happen.
TBP: Thankfully, there is a ton of beyond funny 1980’s nightmares caught on video, though. Congrats on the show.
Web exclusive next Thursday: Nick reveals the best thrift store in America, the most memorable video and more.
TheBPlot is the only place for a first look at - and a little scoop about - the making of the Asbury Park Firefighter 2010 Calendar (on sale Saturday, Nov. 28).
Last Saturday and Sunday, 14 firemen came together for two good causes – raising funds for a new firehouse and ArtsCAP. The guys were so fun, kind and modest and completely great sports. I can not say enough about how wonderful these guys are. We are incredibly lucky to have such amazing men – from Chief Kevin Keddy, down to the new recruits – protecting our City. Buy ‘em a cup of coffee or lunch the next time you see one of them.
Some of the firefighter’s wives and girlfriends stopped by to watch the photo shoot, even one mother-in-law.
The guys got so into the shoot they became competitive to make their individual photo session the best and most visual, debating who would use the Jaws of Life as a prop or hose with water shooting out onto Asbury Avenue. It was super-fun to be a part of…I even got to slide down the beautiful, vintage finial-topped brass 30 foot long firepole – twice!
Which of the 14 firefighters will be the 2010 cover-guy? Save the evening of Saturday, Nov. 28 – NEW DATE – for the big reveal.
The calendar was photographed and designed by award-winning photographer, Alan Barnett and produced by ArtsCAP with the assistance of Dennis Carroll and Ginny Otley. TheBPlot’s Richard Virgilio is writing the copy.
Special thanks to Chief Kevin Keddy for assisting in the coordination of the photo shoot and the fourteen fearless, kind and generous firefighters – ultimate gentleman – who donated their time.
Asbury Bark – the area’s top independent pet store – is hosting a Halloween Pet Parade and costume contest for your animal companions Saturday (Oct. 31), benefitting the Greyhound Friends of New Jersey.
The pet parade, on Cookman Avenue, will kick-off an afternoon, evening and night of Halloween festivities all around Asbury Park.
Registration for the parade and contest will begin at noon at Asbury Bark. The parade will begin at 2 pm. A minimum $2 donation to GFNJ per registrant is suggested.
“Following the parade, all participants return to the store for the judging of pet costumes in three categories: most creative, best-dressed and best overall costume,” said Jim Modica, Asbury Bark. “Then, members of the Greyhound Foundation will be here with Greyhounds that have been rescued to discuss the breed, what it entails to own a Greyhound and more.”
BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE FIREFIGHTERS 2010 CALENDAR: THURSDAY AT THEBPLOT.COM.
Whether or not you believe in them, psychics are a part of Asbury Park’s rich history and personality.
PLAYBOY PLAYMATE PLAYS WITH ANOTHER’S MATE… BULLISH ON BEAR PARTY… A BONE CHILLING FIND… & MORE SCARY GOOD GOSSIP IN “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW
One of the psychics whose tarot cards and crystals get the most workout is Bill Blount. A longtime area resident, living in Asbury Park for the past 10 years, with his dog Gigi, Bill is relied upon by many to demystify elements of the past, present and future. Currently, he is the resident psychic at Paranormal Books.
I thought I would get a checkup at the Psychic’s office, so I met with Bill to get the scoop on what the cards say about who will win this season’s Dancing with the Stars; if I should let my hair grow longer; if Ryan Reynolds will dump Scarlett Johansson for me; when Prince William and Kate Middleton will walk down the aisle?
Is that hottie royal getting married or not?
Bill – looking as confused as a vampire without fangs – politely explained that he couldn’t answer any of my pressing pop culture questions.
So, I dove into his well-worn deck of tarot cards with some other, more suitable, questions: is my deceased brother around me; is my ex who died suddenly after hitting a tree with a snowmobile okay and happy; will my dear friend get pregnant soon; is a baby I hold close healthy; will my friend find employment in the next six months?
Bill answered my questions as I flipped over the “Tower,” “5 of Swords” “2 of Wands” and “King of Cups” cards, among others. The answers: unclear; yes; yes, most likely during a full moon; yes, stop worrying; yes, however will take longer to come together.
He gave me a bonus answer, too, that two new people are headed into my life within the next six weeks (Bill described them physically, too). One is naughty and one is nice.
More to come on that.
Bill tells me he has felt the psychic ability his entire life – he remembers having premonitions of events when he was as young as two and using his “gift” since he was 23 years old.
“Since I was very young I could see people and events and situations – I thought it was a common thing for everyone,” said Bill. “Early on, I did not know how to express it or control what I was feeling.”
Bill’s long list of area clients – including some of the area’s politicos – include a few who requested their local homes be “cleared” of unwelcome energies.
“There are new homeowners in the grand old houses here that couldn’t get comfortable,” said Bill.
Bill’s tarot reading style is a bit different than others, which he believes helps him help his clients.
“I never touch the (tarot) cards or put them into formation,” said Bill, who also does psychic parties. “I want the energy of my clients in the cards, to be as clear as possible with my answers. I have strong faith in everything I say to people.”
“The Bloodlust Ball will be New Orleans voo-doo style entertainment at its best,” said Kathy Kelly, Paranormal Books. “Carnival and sideshow performers all night long, combined with a vampire costume contest and the amazing Asbury Lanes location will will ensure a freakishly good time will be had by all. All the children of the night are invited to come embrace the sexy darkness.”
Asbury Park people are turning it out for Halloween – tons of inspired ideas and time spent making costumes perfect. TheBPlot reveals a few of the top, fun or over-the-top pop culture-inspired costumes planned for Saturday…
FOLLOW THEBPLOT ON TWITTER AND YOU’RE ENTERED TO WIN $100 DOG GIFT BASKET
Vampires (tons of ‘em in various iterations “True Blood” and “Twilight” especially)
Images from Wonder Bar’s”Yappy Hour” – happy hour for dogs and the people who love them - Thursday (Oct.8), with Asbury Park’s Dog Whisperer, Jim Erven, Absolute Dog Control II.
NEW: FOLLOW THEBPLOT ON TWITTER AND YOU ARE ENTERED TO WIN $100 FANCY-PANTS DOG GIFT BASKET!!!
Email TheBPlot your dog training questions and Jim will answer as many as he can in a future column.
It seems like there are more Halloween events around town than there are mini pumpkins and gourds in a gay man’s Autumn exteriorscape. Pet parades, séances and a huge Ball are all in the works to make the holiday terrifyingly fabulous.
Event planner extraordinaire, Aaron Coleman, Pyramid Productions, has created “The Shining at the Berkeley Hotel” Halloween Ball – which is anticipated to be an all-out, totally showy, fun party.
“This is going to be the biggest and best Halloween party the area has ever seen,” said Aaron, who in 2008 helped produce the Halloween Block Party attended by 800 of the most fun and spectacularly costumed revelers around. “If you love Halloween, this is the party to be at.”
FIREMEN ARE POSERS (FOR CHARITY)… RESTAURANT CRITIC GETS ZERO STARS… LOCO SALESLADY DISSES LADY GAGA… MEDIUM IS EXTRA-LARGE FOR HALLOWEEN… & MORE IN “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW
Aaron is taking the Berkeley Hotel’s Kingsley Ballroom and increasing the terror voltage with a custom-designed interior and exterior lighting display. The light show will include shocking “lightening” in the Ballroom’s two story foyer, huge perilously hanging flickering chandeliers and red and black lights illuminating countless of cobweb encrusted “The Shining” inspired decorations.
“As guests enter, they will walk, or run, through a five-scene custom-built haunted passageway with live actors, including possessed twins, an ‘out-of-control’ chef and Jack Nicholson look-alike,” said Aaron, who has been planning this party since July.
Cash and prizes totaling $5,000 will be awarded in for “Best Celebrity Look-Alike,” “Scariest Costume,” “Best Drag” and “Best Overall” costumes (first, second and third place).
The visual intoxication continues, prior to guests hitting the 50 foot cash bar, with a 10-screen super-slick video installation from M Studio inspired by “The Shining”.
Two fancy-pants New York DJs will reign over the many expected “Vampires,” “Oprah / Whitney Houstons,” “John & Kates,” “Michelle Obamas” and the most popular costume of 2009, “Michael Jackson.”
“I can’t wait to see the over the top costumes,” said Aaron. “This is a party for everyone. I know of one group coming here instead of going to Salem (Mass.)”
Langosta Lounge is providing the buffet for the anticipated 900 guests. Candyteria takes care of guest’s sweet teeth with a candy bar and Il Pavone will be serving its luscious store-made gelato. Spirit Halloween store (next to Target) is offering a 20% discount to anyone mentioning “Shining.” The Berkeley Hotel also has a special $89 room rate.
“The Shining at the Berkley Hotel” will continue the reputation momentum Aaron has build over the past three years as one of the top producers in our area of quality, exciting and original events that bring people to town.
His contacts, admirers and most of all, his creativity ensure a horrifically great time will be had by all.
“The Shining at the Berkeley Hotel”: 8.30 pm to 2 am, Saturday (Oct. 31). Ticket price of $40 includes everything but liquor. That’s the best Halloween bargain around. $50 day-of. Advance tickets available at PyramidProductions.info, Mike’s Beach House and Il Pavone (Cookman Avenue). The event benefits ReVision Theatre in Asbury Park.
Briefly: Hugs and Happy Birthday to my mom! Love you.
“Grey Gardens” historian and thirty-year friend of Little Edie, Walter Newkirk talked everything Edie and more to an enthusiastic crowd at The Showroom in Asbury Park, Sunday.
The Showroom- the best morphing of cushy living room, high-tech media room and fancy-pants big-screen cinema -also screened HBO’s Emmy-winning film, “Grey Gardens.”
Newkirk with Edie (1976)
After the event, Walter took a moment to speak dish further with TheBPlot. Click here for TheBPlot’s interview with Walter, published in The Coaster and online two weeks ago.
TBP: PAINT US A PICTURE OF WHAT IT WAS LIKE WALKING IN TO GREY GARDENS FOR THE FIRST TIME.
Walter: I went with two other guys from the newspaper. None of us were ready for the smell in the house which was overwhelming. It was like a barn with kitty litter, animal urine and feces.
We sat and did the interview at a very small table in the hallway at the top of the stairs – down the hall from her mother’s bedroom. She was charming, eloquent, intelligent and very sweet. I discovered I liked Edie very much and a thirty-year friendship was born.
It was a chilly April day and when we got back into my car to depart for Rutgers, I turned on the heat and when the hot air hit our clothes, the stench in the car was like ammonia – all three of us simultaneously threw open the car doors and jumped out of the car because we could not breathe. It was hilarious but also horrific.
TBP: HOW DID YOU GAIN HER TRUST?
Walter: Believe it or not, I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that I was a college student and that I was going on into the world…I dunno how I gained her “trust”…I think trust is part of a friendship/relationship and I guess she liked me or she would’nt have kept giving me her new phone #s after she moved to NYC.
She would change her phone number periodically when she got tired of certain people calling her. She would then write me a letter with her new phone number and write “don’t give this number to ANYONE!”
TBP: SPECIFICALLY, WHAT DID SHE SAY ABOUT THE KENNEDYS AND JACKIE?
Walter: She wrote to me more about Lee Radziwill than Jackie Kennedy and didn’t have much to say about any of the Kennedy family. She mentioned Jackie about the original filming of the documentary. There was no real dirt or mug slinging or anything negative in any of her letters to me about Jackie or the Kennedy family. When I interviewed Edie she said she had met Jack Kennedy…”but he dated models and showgirls…”
TBP: JACKIE SENT LITTLE EDIE CLOTHES, YES?
Walter: That is what I have been told or read…I never asked her that.
TBP: WHAT WAS YOUR IMPRESSION OF HOW SHE FELT ABOUT BIG EDIE? MEANING, AT THE TIME SHE WAS LIVING WITH HER MOM AND THEN AS SHE REFLECTED BACK ON HER LIFE IN HER LATER YEARS, HOW DID HER VIEW OF GREY GARDENS AND HER MOM CHANGE?
Walter: She had no regrets she wrote in a letter…she always loved her mother and the life she had with her.
TBP: WHAT DID SHE LEARN FROM LIVING AT GREY GARDENS?
Walter: She spoke to me about RESPONSBILITY during the 1976 interview…and I think she felt that it was a daughter’s responsbility to take care of her mother if she was alone and or sick. There’s an interesting section she discusses on the CD I sell about “responsibility.”
TBP: WE SAW A BIRTHDAY IN THE DOCUMENTARY. WHAT WERE THE HOLIDAYS LIKE FOR LITTLE EDIE AT GREYGARDENS?
Walter: Edie and I exchanged Christmas cards. I think she may have spent holidays with her mother’s sisters when she lived in NYC but I am not sure.
TBP: HOW DID LITTLE EDIE MAKE MONEY AND SURVIVE FINANCIALLY DURING HER LATER YEARS? I LOVE THE LETTER SHE WROTE EXPECTING HER PER DIEM FROM MONTCLAIR MUSEUM, FROM YOUR FIRST BOOK.
Walter: I believe her brother(s) invested her money after she sold Grey Gardens and had more to do with her money management than any of us might know.
TBP: WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT LITTLE EDIE? AND / OR GREY GARDENS IN GENERAL?
Walter: The biggest misconception about Little Edie is that she was nuts…a looney tune.
Her behavior in GG was not like her behavior with me in real time…she fought with her mother a lot, the camera caught it and she definitely performed a lot on screen because she thought she was in a “movie.” She never quite understood the concept of a “documentary.”
TBP: YOU ALSO KNOW OR KNEW A NUMBER OF THE ANCILLARY CHARACTERS OF GREYGARDENS. COULD YOU TALK A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THEM? WHAT WAS LIFE LIKE FOR THEM AFTER GREYGARDENS?
Walter: Lois Wright is still alive and well – and has written a book My Life At Grey Gardens 13 Months and Beyond – she creates and sells Grey Gardens inspired art now. She also has a television show called The Lois Wright Show which has aired in East Hampton for over 20 years.
I love the men who created the Broadway musical - very talented and very nice guys. I was thrilled that Michael Sucsy gave me a credit at the end of the HBO movie and that he mentioned me during his director’s commentary on the DVD. I gave him copies of some of Edie’s letters to me and also a copy of the interview on a tape back in 2005.
TBP: YOU HAVE A NEW BOOK. WHAT CAN GREY GARDENS FANS EXPECT?
Walter: Edie loved Clinton and seemed disgusted that his “little affair with that ushetette (intern) ” should be punished so severely within the public eye. Edie wrote out of NOWHERE to me during the last year of her life that the “incident” at the Maidstone Club never happened – she never lost her bathing suit while swimming and got out of the pool naked and someone rushed her a towel. That was written in THE BOUVIERS a book by her cousin Jack Davis and also used in the musical.
Walter’s new book “Letters from Little Edie Beale of Grey Gardens” is available online. GreyGardensBook.com has more info about his previous books and CD. Click here for TheBPlot’s exclusive first-look at the new book, August 2009.
For TheBPlot’s exclusive four-part interview with Bouvier Beale – Little Edie’s nephew, click below. NEW: “Grey Gardens” column category. Scroll to the bottom on the homepage.
The New York Post’s “Page Six” and The Daily News’ “Rush and Molloy” gossip columns wanted this story and its photos first, however your local TheBPlot and The Coaster are the only ones to have the scoop:
Bruce Springsteen joined August’s Crush “party for women” at the Beach Bar, in Asbury Park, mingling with the more than 500 women primarily unnoticed.
“He walked up to the ticket table and we told him he was welcome, of course, however he had to be an honorary lesbian for the evening,” said Jill Potter, producer of Crush, smiling. “Bruce then threw out his arm for a wristband and went right in.”
Bruce mingled with the crowd for an hour, speaking with Jill about the previous owner of her Sunset Avenue home – Bruce’s former tour chef.
“Bruce was so great – a total fun gentleman,” said Jill. “A few days later one of his employees called me to thank me on behalf of Bruce and gave me two tickets to his Friday concert at Giants Stadium.”
The next Crush party is planned for early 2010. AwwMama.com will have more information.
Now that canine companions are permitted on the boardwalk, it is a great opportunity to take a very brisk autumn stroll to Yappy Hour – outdoor happy hour for dogs and the people that love them – at the WonderBar.
After hearing from tons of dog owners and dog lovers that Yappy Hour was a great way to spend a few hours with neighbors and their pets, I went last Thursday.
The dog-lover’s spirit and camaraderie greet you at the front gate, along with a handful of energetically wagging tails. It’s a hoot to see dogs of all shapes, sizes and pedigrees running around carefree.
‘LINGERIE BOWL’ BRAWL… WATER IN WATERFRONT CONDOS… ASBURY’S TACO MAN AT ‘BURNING MAN’… DRAMA AT A THEATRE BOARD MEETING… ‘GREY GARDENS’ LITTLE EDIE REGRETS – AT THE SHOWROOM?… RIGHT NOW IN “YOU SAY WHO”
Watching over the dog’s “controlled free play” is Jim Erven, owner of Absolute Control Dog Training II. Jim, a law enforcement officer during the day, seems to know every Yappy Hour dog’s name and personality – playing the roles of party organizer, matchmaker and top-dog.
“The fun part for me is watching the little dogs playfully chase the big dogs,” said Jim, as we both watched a brown and black Chihuahua running behind a black and white dog I would swear was a pony he was so big.
Many companion canine owners told me that they were fearful of having their “kids” around the other thirty to forty dogs who attend the Thursday and Saturday evening events. After meeting Jim, however, they knew that their most pressing concern would be their beer getting warm or the ice watering down their margarita too much.
“Jim is fierce,” said Amy Quinn. “I have seen him transform dogs into great Yappy Hour guests. I know many dog owners who are thankful for his expertise.”
Jim – who told me he has trained hundreds of dogs through the past 14 years and also serves as a K9 scent detection trainer and patrol trainer – knows dog psychology like Carson Cressley knows fashion. He has worked miracles with puppies and older dogs and swears you can teach an old dog new tricks.
“The biggest mistake owners make is that they treat there dogs like they are human,” said Jim, who has helped train some of the members of the Asbury Park Canine Unit. “Owners think dogs understand things like a person would. Most habits of the dog can be changed – it’s the owner that’s hard to change but we can do it.”
Jim has a rare commanding and caring energy that makes every man, woman and dog want to sit, stay and roll over. He is Asbury Park’s own no-nonsense version of the Dog Whisperer – recently accomplishing what others said was an impossible task.
“I began working with a dog that was aggressive with everyone – even its owner,” said Jim, who offers private training classes. “I had to teach the owner how to be a dog handler. Once the owner was not in fear of his dog the rest became easy. No dog is untrainable.”
Debbie DeLisa, manager of WonderBar, and creator of the Yappy Hour concept, which hosts approximately 125 dogs Thursdays during the summer, told me “Jim is the most important part of the evening.”
If everyone in the world could get along the way the dogs – all sizes, pedigrees, personalities – at Yappy Hour do, every issue would be history.
Yappy Hour will “continue until it gets too cold,” said Debbie. Call for more information.
The facts about the new “dogs on the boardwalk” ordinance – click here.
Our canine companions are now officially permitted on the boardwalk. Jim Modica – owner of Asbury Bark and a member of the dog committee assisting in the development of the new-as-a-day-old-puppy ordinance - and Councilwoman Sue Henderson gave us the low-down…
“The new ’pilot’ ordinance will allow dogs to be on the Asbury Park boardwalk from October 1 thru April 30,” said Jim. “Between May 1 and September 31 dogs will be prohibited from the Asbury Park boardwalk.
“This ordinance amendment requires that dog owners, while on the boardwalk:
1. Attend to their dogs at all times (not leaving them alone tied to something)
2. Ensure their dog is currently licensed (in any town and the owner must be able to produce the license on-demand)
3. Use leashes no longer than 6 feet (when on the boardwalk)
4. Immediately clean up after their dog
“‘Responsible dog ownership’ – meaning cleaning up after your dog is the key to this pilot ordinance being renewed. ‘Pilot’ means it needs to be renewed each year by the City Council. People who see other people not cleaning up after their dogs may want to, and need to, remind them of the importance of doing so.”
Councilwoman Sue Henderson added:
“This ordinance – consistent with the regulation in Ocean Grove – will mean that more people will be down at the boardwalk during the off season and I hope it will bring more business. It does not apply to the beach area. The dog beach is located on the northernmost part of the city.
“I walked my girls on Sunday and Monday and met up with many people walking their dogs. I even noticed several people eating outdoors with their dogs next to their table.
“I would love to thank all of the members of the dog committee which had members who were for the ordinance and some were against,” said Sue. ”We had representatives from the police department, from businesses in the city, Terry Reidy and residents. We will continue to meet to try to solve problems like licensing and free rabies vaccinations. We know that many people have dogs in our community – we want to be a dog-friendly city.”
Last Saturday more than 1500 Zombies – plus hundreds more unregistered “walking dead” – took over Asbury Park’s boardwalk and Cookman Avenue to the delight of thousands of witnesses along the Zombie Walk’s route.
“We are very proud of this year’s Zombie Walk and the turnout - especially as this is only our third event,” said Jason Meehan, New Jersey Zombie Walk organizer. “As we begin planning for the next New Jersey Zombie Walk we set our sights on breaking the world record.”
The HBO film “Grey Gardens” won six Emmy awards thanks, in part to one of the contributing researchers noted for the film, “Grey Gardens” historian and author Walter Newkirk – friends with Little Edie for more than three decades. She trusted few and allowed fewer into her life as she did Walter.
Newkirk with Little Edie, 1976
In anticipation of Walter’s revealing lecture next Sunday (Oct. 18) at The Showroom – his only appearance in our area - along with a exclusive screening of the HBO film, I spoke with him about his thirty year friendship with the stars of the cult-classic documentary, named one of Entertainment Weekly’s “Top 50 Cult Films of All-Time.”
SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE…
THE SPRINGSTEEN BACKSTORY TO THIS PHOTO...THURSDAY IN "YOU SAY WHO"
TheBPlot: Everyone has a story about how they became interested in Grey Gardens. What is your story?
Walter: The first time I heard about “Grey Gardens”, I was a senior at Rutgers University and noticed a full page ad for the documentary in The New York Times. The photo in the ad was alluring and mysterious – who was this woman in the ratty fur coat standing in front of that haunted house?
GLAM GRANOLA GIRL AT MAYOR’S BALL… AN ESCORT’S AD…BURNING OCEAN GROVE MEMORIES… ‘BURNING MAN’ CLUB IN ASBURY…LOUDMOUTH FINALLY DE-CLINED…AND MORE IN “YOU SAY WHO” THIS WEEK
After seeing the film with Pat Loud (“An American Family”) at the Paris Theatre in New York, I knew I had to interview Edie for the Rutgers newspaper. Surprisingly, I dialed Information, got the phone number, called and Edie answered.
TBP: After the meeting you and she became friends until her death – three decades later. What did you talk about?
Walter: I remember her asking me over the telephone in the 70’s…”who is this Fair- rah?” Apparently Edie had seen some publicity about Farrah Fawcett and or Charlie’s Angels so I had to educate her a bit about the late Ms. Fawcett. Edie loved politics. She also loved to watch the news and sports on television. Cher was a favorite entertainer.
Little Edie and Newkirk, 1981
TBP: Did she talk about Jackie O?
Walter: She once wrote me, “I love when you write ’Edie, have you heard from Jackie?’ Walter you have always had such a terrific sense of humor…” Apparently she heard from Jackie but not often. She spoke more about Jackie’s sister, Lee Radzidwill. More on that at The Showroom.
TBP: Today, would she be emailing you or writing on your “wall” on Faceplace…err…Facebook?
Walter: Absolutely not. Years ago, she wrote me, “Beware of the machine world.”
TBP: The magnificent family wedding jewelry is used to make a point in the HBO film. Every fan wants to know what happened to that necklace.
Walter: I believe Bouvier Beale Jr. – with whom you spoke earlier this year – has that jewelry.
TBP: What were Edie’s true feelings about the 1976 documentary, which the HBO film being screened at The Showroom is in-part based on, and the guys who produced it – the Maysles brothers?
Walter: Her feelings changed over the years for both the film and the Maysles. Sometimes she loved it all, sometimes she was defensive about the film. She said she did it because she and her mother needed the money for food.
Later, there were issues regarding royalties from the film and DVD. She got on a soapbox about royalties in several letters.
More dish with Walter next Thursday (Oct. 15).
Ask Walter your questions at The Showroom’s screening and lecture, Sunday (Oct. 18), 4 p.m., benefitting the Monmouth County Arts Coalition.
More info about Walter’s books - including his yet-to-be released “Letters of Little Edie Beale of Grey Gardens” - and CD at GreyGardensBook.com and AuthorHouse.com. Read TheBPlot’s exclusive “book first look” by clicking here.
Read TheBPlot’s exclusive three part interview with Bouvier Beale, nephew of Little Edie – search “Bouvier”.
Last week, the editor of Beachcruiser Magazine and BeachBlog.me, Billy Mecca, added another publication to his growing media portfolio. Salt – a newsletter focusing on Asbury Park - ups the ante for the area’s stogy and excessively opinionated weeklies as a quick must-read for anyone interested in what the hell is now and going on in our city…or anyone who just likes pretty pictures.
Speaking with Asbury Park’s King of Print Media, Billy gave TheBPlot an exclusive hint of what’s brewing, newsletter-wise, in Asbury Park’s salty ocean air.
TBP: What is Salt, what will it be and will it increase my blood-pressure?
Billy: Salt’s a weekly newsletter-style publication that lists Beachcruiser’s daily picks for the week from what’s happening in and nearby Asbury Park. Salt is meant to be a one-stop source – one go-to sheet that anyone can grab to fill them in on what’s going on.
TBP: It sounds very entertainment and event-centric. How did you come up with the name? I looooove the name.
Billy: I came across the word “salty” one day and it seemed to describe Asbury perfectly – a beach town with a bite. Yes, there’s an obvious reference to the ocean too, but think of Salt as an additive…a flavor enhancer to the Asbury Park experience. That was right on target for me.
TBP: It’s the slickest, most visual, modern, city-style publication, with content to match, in the greater area. Seriously. Who are you and where did you come from to launch a mag like this?
Billy: I have a digital graphics, effects and video background and studied at Pratt, as well as having many years experience in fashion design and retail…some film and interior stuff too. Though Jersey born, I lived in New York for much of my life until heading back to New Jersey some years ago.
TBP: You keep me current with BeachBlog.me – I wouldn’t know what to say to a surfer without getting arrested if it weren’t for you. What will Salt cover and keep us up-to-the-week on?
Billy: For sure surfing, or more specifically, surf culture and the surf mentality. Salt pretty much will cover anything related to the beach lifestyle and diverse scene here. One thing I always keep in mind with development is to present content not really covered anywhere else – not to be exclusive, but rather to give a voice to the up-and-coming and activities and events you might not otherwise hear about – art, music, film, design, community, style, causes, history, wildlife and people…all as it relates to events going on.
TBP: Do you want readers to send you photos and stuff?
Billy: No doubt Yes! The goal for Beachcruiser, and now Salt, to be a real interactive experience with its readers. Salt and Beachcruiser have submission areas, where anyone can send just about anything – articles, ideas, photos, event listings, and video…mobile photos and texts too! (Submit to Salt right now, click here. Beachcruiser, click here.)
TBP: How can I get Salted each week?
Billy: Salt’s free and sent out Wednesdays to email subscribers only…it’s not published on our websites or social sites. Print copies, also free, are distributed throughout the downtown and Boardwalk areas of Asbury Park (full listing of locations on the Salt site).
TBP: Meeting you three years ago while we were volunteering at the ReStore has been a great gift, Billy. I am so excited for you and wish you tons of success. You are smart and kind and deserve every salty, spicy ounce of it. Cheers.
A new season of Gay Bowling at Asbury Lanes (Fourth Avenue at Kingsley) kicks off next month. In anticipation of more great fun at the Lanes, I spoke with Asbury Park-resident Michael Delia – Gay Bowling’s organizer.
TheBPlot: For those new to the party, what is “gay bowling”?
Michael: Gay Bowling is monthy event in we get togther as a community and enjoy a night of non-competive fun at Asbury Lanes - a very retro place that brings back memories of the bowling alleys of childhood.
In it’s tenth season, Gay Bowling is not a league, but a community bowling night in which all are welcome.
Ten dollars includes bowling ball and shoe rental (of course you can bring your own), unlimited bowling from 7 pm to 10 pm, all the pizza you can eat, great retro music from DJ Jack the Ripper, door prizes and – best of all – great people. All you need to purchase in addition is drinks.
TBP: You have been coordinating gay bowling for years. Any memorable moments?
Michael: When a young door prize winner got a set of Liza Minelli CD’s and didn’t know who she was.
TBP: Last year, you began having the night benefit a worthy organization in the area.
Michael: Yes, we raised an average of $500 for each organization sponsored.
TBP: Fab Michael. Looking forward to breaking my record score of 130 on the lanes.
GAY BOWLING SCHEDULE: 2009 / 2010 SEASON (7 pm start)
Oct. 17th, Nov. 14th, Dec. 5th, Jan. 16th, Feb. 20th, Mar. 20th, Apr. 24th, May 22nd.
PHOTO COURTESY DANNY CLINCH "BE TRUE" EXHIBIT OPEN UNTIL SUNDAY ON THE BOARDWALK
When I saw Bruce Springsteen in concert at Convention Hall, earlier this year – a super-fun moment in my life (thanks to Carolyn Curtin) – I did not sense Bruce as almost sixty years old.
His rocking body – testing the limits of the heroic seams of his black jeans and shirt – didn’t give a hint of a jiggle or bounce in anything but the right places. No one would have guessed he was a member of AARP (he’s on the cover of the org.’s magazine this month) and about to turn 60 years old, as he did last Wednesday.
BRIBARY, BETRAYAL, SEX, SCANDAL, GUILT, EGOS, BENEVOLANCE & MORE… WELCOME TO THE FIRST McMANSION-SIZED ‘REAL ESTATE’ EDITION OF “YOU SAY WHO“
Yes, some will write me about Madonna or a few other rockers, and say there are other iconic AARP card-carrying concert performers. Madonna’s a scary cougar now and there is just no comparison to Bruce. Sorry gays…but I digress.
Tim Donnelly, curator of the Springsteen photo exhibit “Be True” on the Boardwalk until Sunday, equates Bruce to a higher power.
“Springsteen concerts are like Rock and Roll revivals,” said Tim. “Going to a concert was like getting baptized.”
I have met countless in our area who have lip-synched with Bruce, laughed with Bruce, cried with Bruce, cheered and celebrated with Bruce throughout his performing years however there’s one local who genuinely put his passion for anything and everything Bruce to paper – in every sense.
Ocean Grove resident, Stan Goldstein, author of “Rock and Roll Tour of the Jersey Shore” [photo right] – now in its third expanded edition – has been a fan of Birthday Boy Bruce and his band for more than 30 years, religiously following the tour around the U.S. and Europe.
“I was twelve when ‘Greetings from Asbury Park’ came out,” said Stan. “I was at Two Guys (store) looking for a Partridge Family album and Bruce’s album caught my eye because of the local connection. I first saw him perform at the Monmouth Arts Center (now the Count Basie Theatre), in August of 1976.”
Stan’s history with Bruce also includes serving as an official Rock and Roll tour guide for visitors to Monmouth and Ocean Counties. He told me – as a new fan of the Birthday Boy - I did not know that his band was named after E Street in Belmar, at the corner of 10th Avenue. But you probably knew that.
A lesser known fact Stan shared provided more insight into Bruce’s early years.
“There’s an old surfboard factory off of Sunset Avenue in Ocean Township, after Wegmans,” said Stan, who also manages the website NJRockMap.com. “When he was with the band ‘Steel Mill’ he lived in the factory building, circa 1971 – few people realize he was right here for a time.”
Almost 40 years later and with a different band family, Bruce at 60 years-old proves that age is just a silly number.
“I still think of him as a 30 year old,” said Stan. “Even today he jumps on pianos, slides and runs around all over the stage – no one puts on a better show. He is still relevant at sixty.”
So, Stan, how has Bruce changed through the decades?
“It’s not Bruce who has changed – the main thing is that the internet lets his fans literally follow the tour from their homes,” said Stan. “There are sites dedicated to what Bruce played at what exact time in which city during the tour. Fans Twitter while at the concerts. Every show is something special and the internet lets more fans get involved than ever before.”
What a difference a few years make.
Search “Springsteen” for more TheBPlot articles and dish about the unofficial mayor of town.
A little vanity never hurt anyone. A little volunteerism helps a lot of one…
SMELL GOOD
Banana Republic, the most reliable store for fab fashion and accessories locally has introduced its first new fragrance – for men and women - since 2005. Good things come to those who wait. Banana Republic stores (Sea Girt, Shrewsbury, New York City) and online.
LOOK GOOD
A fancy-pants friend in the beauty biz told me that big beauty companies like Olay (Procter and Gamble) have the most research and development money, are moreso on the edge of technology and thus develop the best mainstream beauty products for the money - from lipsticks to anti-aging miracles. Olay’s new Regenerist Eye Roller delivers. Yes, straight guys, even for you. Olay makes its packaging asexual, with you in mind, too. Available everywhere, however cheapest at Costco and Olay.com.
DO GOOD
Log on to Serve.gov and learn about volunteer opportunities in the greater Asbury Park area. If you run a non-profit and are looking for volunteers, you can resister your project on the website.
Someone once said, “You can learn more about a person by looking at their calendar and checkbook, than anything else.” Interesting.
Thirty-nine primarily never-before-seen photographs of Bruce Springsteen at locations around New Jersey are the focus of “Be True”, the rock and roll photography exhibit extended until next Sunday (10/4), that celebrates the music icon.
(PHOTO COURTESY DANNY CLINCH)
Curated by Tim Donnelly, the intoxicatingly beautiful, seemingly alive images, deep and engaging – most in black and white – were taken by Bruce’s photographer of the past 10 years and friend, Danny Clinch.
“We got a call from a London-based gallery asking us to put together an exhibit of Springsteen images,” said Tim, who is also a music journalist, speaking with TheBPlot and The Coaster. “We looked at each other and said ‘London? ‘This needs to be done in Asbury Park for Bruce’s birthday’.”
Danny, a photo-journalist who has also worked with Pearl Jam and many others, shot the cover for Bruce’s “The Rising,” and “Working on a Dream” and directed Bruce’s “Devils and Dust” music video.
“The Garden State locations that serve as the inspiration for ‘Be True’ range from Springsteen’s home studio in New Jersey horse country, Fort Monmouth, the soon to be demolished Giants Stadium and such iconic Asbury Park locations such as the Stone Pony, Paramount Theater, Convention Hall and the revitalized boardwalk,” said Tim. “We asked Bruce how he felt if we did this and his response was ‘Go for it’.”
Bruce’s fans are happy to celebrate his birthday with this exhibit in Asbury Park.
“As a fan who sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to him on his thirtieth at Madison Square Garden during the ‘No Nukes’ concert, I love the exhibit for its geography and simplicity,” said Janet Manni, Wanamassa resident and broker at Century 21 Coastal Realtors. “The exhibit sums him up perfectly as a local, down-to-Earth guy and a worldwide legend.”
Just like Bruce, the exhibit is for the people.
“We wanted to be absolutely inclusive – never charging a penny – even when we feature New Jersey performers, as we will this weekend,” said Tim.
“Be True” at the Third Avenue Pavillion on the Boardwalk until next Sunday (10/4). Friday (9/28) at 8.30 pm, The Roebucks perform. Saturday (9/29) at 5 pm, Steve Reily, Ocean Grove resident via Dublin, Ireland. Admission is free.
“You live where? Wana-who? Wanamassa? Oh, yeah, that’s a cute area…what’s the story with it?”
Something to that effect is how the conversation usually goes when I tell someone where I live.
A NAME FOR THE MADISON MARQUETTE SOAP OPERA?…UGLY MODELING STORY…PERSCRIPTION FOR PLAY AT MINI-GOLF BENEFIT…GREY GARDENS GUY TO SHOW UP AT THE SHOWROOM…LANDSCAPER CUT FROM PAYROLL…TRUMAN’S BIG ADVENTURE PART DEUX’…& MORE – NOW, IN “YOU SAY WHO”.
I wanted to learn more of the beautiful area’s history and story, so I went right to the experts at the Ocean Township Historical Museum on Deal Road and discovered a ton of fun and interesting trivia…
1. In 1687, Gavin Drummond, a Scottish surveyor, purchased the land which is known today as Wanamassa from Lenape Indian Chief Wanamassa for one gun and kettle, five coats and two pounds of “weight” powder.
Chief Wanamassa believed land was for everyone to use and share and had no idea of Drummond’s plan to populate it. Eventually, the Lenape Tribe was pushed west.
2. Ross-Fenton Farm – located across from the Locust Drive area of Asbury Park, in what was the Wanamassa Woods – was owned by former vaudeville performers Charles Ross and Mabel Fenton.
Because of their entertainment background and the celebrities they attracted, Charles and Mabel created what was
ROSS FENTON FARM POSTCARD
considered a “rocking nightclub” for the time. Beginning at the club’s opening in the summer of 1889, a motor boat picked guests up at the end of Deal Lake, by the Boardwalk and took the glamorously dressed women and men to the Farm for an evening of fine dining, live music and dancing on an outdoor stage.
The cover charge for the club was $25. An original menu at the museum revealed a filet mignon dinner was $2.50; cold lobster was $2; shrimp cocktail was $1 and something called “Crab Flake Ross-Fenton” was $1.50.
Wanamassa locals were known to sit on Sunset Bridge or in canoes on Deal Lake and listen to the first-class entertainment.
3. In 1890, John and Rob Drummond (descendants of Gavin) built a half-mile racetrack in the area now known as Colonial Terrace. The Monmouth County Fair was held at the track for years.
4. Until the 1920’s, the custom of dressing young boys in dresses – because it was easier to change their diapers – was common. A few of the outfits are on display at the museum.
5. From approximately 1900 to 1930, the YMCA owned what is known as Wanamassa Point (peninsula in Deal Lake, off of Sunset Avenue), and used it as a camp meeting and revival location. The “Point” was also home to the YMCA Auditorium, used as a community club for balls and Fireman’s Fairs.
6. No commercial district was allowed in Wanamassa until 1920 because residents thought it would hurt the character of the area.
7. The Wanamassa building boom surged after World War II, when veterans came looking for affordable housing. Brower Homes was one of the largest builders of Cape Cod-style homes.
8. During the mid-1900’s, the end of Logan Road, a dirt road at the time, was considered “Lovers Lane”.
9. The soda fountain at Kuskan Pharmacy, on Wickapecko Drive, was the meeting place of-choice for local youth.
“Every kid in town would ride their bikes to Kuskan’s and stay for hours,” said Barbara Metcalf, Museum volunteer and former Asbury Park Baby Parade Princess. “That sense of community still remains here today.”
Many thanks and hugs to all the wonderful volunteers at the Ocean Township Historical Museum, most especially Howard Richmond and Barbara Metcalf.
ArtsCAP held its first charity golf outing fundraiser on the boardwalk at the Asbury Eighteen miniature golf course Sunday afternoon.
“This was the first time I played golf all summer,” said Joe Guidetti, Asbury Park resident. “It’s also the most fun I have had all summer.”
Awards and winners of the tournament were “Lowest Score,” Asbury Park Press; “Highest Score,” Asbury Park Housing Authority; “Hole in One,” Fire Chief Kevin Keddy; “Best Cheering Section,” Housing Authority.
Next Saturday (Sept. 26), Asbury Park will host its first city-wide yard sale benefitting Rescue Ridge animal shelter – an “eleventh hour” shelter taking in many dogs and cats scheduled to be euthanized by other shelters. TheBPlot has your exclusive first look at the listing of homes participating in the sale.
“The host sites listed below have signed up to hold a yard sale and have pledged to give at least ten-percent of their gross sales to a unique local animal shelter, Rescue Ridge,” said Sonja O’Brien, tireless organizer of the sale and Asbury Park resident. “I invite everyone to spend a fun day, shopping at the yard sales and to pick up some treasures for a great cause.”
Rarely is there feel-goodness, pure joy and wonderful frivolity set to song the way six guys from New York City – one with a home in Asbury Park – did here Sunday of Labor Day weekend.
New Yorkers Adam MacLean, Chris Bush, Chris Lucia, Jeffrey Kummer, Brian Matthew Maloney and John Barbato (Asbury Park homeowner) produced a fun, dancey, sexy, bubblegum-pop and energetically choreographed three-minute summer homage music video with Whitney Houston’s new song “Million Dollar Bill” and are now an unqualified internet sensation – taking Asbury Park with them on their internet whirlwind.
FORGET MORRO CASTLE, ASBURY’S OWN TITANIC…A KEYLESS PROPRIETOR…OCEAN GROVE SHOP’S HYSTERICAL PHOTO-SHOPPED PHOTO…MONIKER RHYMES WITH ‘RICH’…NASTY ‘NURSE JACKIE’ HABIT…LESBIAN LOVE THROW-DOWN…DIAMONDS ARE A DOGS BEST FRIEND & MORE IN “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW.
“We saw it was going to be a wet and lazy day so we wanted to create a fun memento in the spirit of the last weekend of the summer in the city that we all think is amazing,” said Adam MacLean.
Their video, “Million Dollar Bill Asbury Park” was inspired by another gaggle of gays in the Fire Island Pines who produced a summer homage video (“Party in the F.I.P.”) a few weeks ago using Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the USA” which now boasts more than one-million views and counting.
The energy of friendship (most have been friends since high school) and playfulness combined with a hot song and the visual background of Asbury Park’s Fifth Avenue, John’s lakefront porch, the Paradise pool, the boardwalk and the Casino leap through your computer screen while the video plays on.
It’s the force of Asbury Park at its most festive.
“Each of us took turns choreographing, directing and holding the camera,” said Adam, who, with Brian, is part of a New York City dance company called “From the Desk of Sarah Seely”. “We were a bunch of producing divas bossing each other around and it came together organically. We especially love the kite flying in the background when we are on the Boardwalk and the ‘Casino Walk’ we did.”
The guys – each one with a smoking bod – saunter in skimpy box-cut bathing suits and multi-color Wayfarer sunglasses through most of the video. In a nod to Whitney’s film “The Bodyguard” Adam also wears a white scarf around his head.
“Whitney’s new song was our choice because she is having a comeback (the CD debuted at Number 1 on Monday) and so is Asbury Park,” said Adam, who edited the video for seven hours prior to its debut last Tuesday. “The boardwalk is the most iconic place in town to us – so we combined two icons: Whitney Houston and Asbury Park and can not believe the response.”
The video – posted last Tuesday - had sixty thousand views on YouTube (as of 6 pm yesterday) and growing.
Views and comments are from all over the U.S. and internationally, including Spain and England – creating fab grass-roots publicity for Asbury Park.
“The emails from strangers are hysterical,” said Adam. “Some people want to date us. Some comment on my freakishly tall height. Some praise the City and beach – I think the other guys are just too short. A producer from Wendy Williams Show said they were reviewing it. A lot say that Jeff is the best dancer and of course, there are some haters out there too.”
Forget the haters and enjoy life. Oh, and…err…sorry everybody– all the guys are spoken for.
Watch the music video over and over – it will make you smile. For great stills from the video click here.
Whitney’s just-released (2 pm yesterday) beautiful “Million Dollar Bill” video below. It’s beyond wonderful to see her back so strong and looking like a billion dollars.
As I settled into the area almost five years ago, I noticed some homes proudly touted fun, dramatic and creative monikers.
No one I spoke with knows how the trend began, however it’s a swell idea and adds another layer of charm to our city.
I spoke with a few Asbury Park homeowners regarding the genesis of their home’s name. Click here for the exclusive photos.
Kelshore:
SOAP OPERA-WORTHY SCANDAL AT A BELMAR RESTAURANT… AN ANDERSON COOPER BREAK-UP…HOT TUB LOVE TURBULANCE… ‘POCKET’ GAY ASBURY INTERNET STAR…WHITNEY HOUSTON, BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE BLACK CROWS…ALL IN “YOU SAY WHO” THIS WEEK
“Many of the places I was fond of in Tulsa, Oklahoma growing up, had names, some derived from the owners names or the land,” said Kevin Kelly, Kelshore’s owner. “In following the history of the Jersey Shore, I learned that property naming in past generations, was not uncommon, so I welcomed the idea to name this huge financial gamble, make it mine, make it last.
“One of the most spectacular named properties in my youth, is a 27,000 square foot Italian Renaissance Mansion in Tulsa, Philbrook – which, my grandmother served as one of the interior decorators (currently an Art Museum). Philbrook was owned by the Phillips family – of Phillips 66 Petroleum – and built in the roaring 20’s.
“The mansion is on a spectacular plot, on a meandering brook, thus named Philbrook. My home, Kelly on the shore – Kelshore. Not as euphonious as Philbrook nor grand however a place I hope the family and others enjoy now and after I am gone, with a name that conjures happy memories.”
Casa Blanca:“It is named Casablanca for two reasons,” said Les Phillips, who with his partner Julion St. Croix purchased their home in 2004. “One was that we planned for the exterior of the home, outside furnishings and flower beds would be white – Casa Blanca (White House). Also, the Casablanca Lilly is our favorite flower.”
Joya del Mar:
“We named the place ‘Joya del Mar’ (Jewel of the Sea) as a paean to Asbury Park’s moniker ‘Jewel of the Atlantic’ two years ago,” said Robert Calabrese who owns the property with his partner Scott, his business partner Jan and his sister Patti.
Buttercup Manor:
“We heard, six years ago, when we purchased our house, that residents were naming their homes,” said Charlie Maffei, husband of Gary Maffei. “Since my nickname was ‘Buttercup’, we decided to name our home Buttercup Manor. The house is now yellow and we usually don’t even have to tell someone our address. We just tell them Buttercup Manor and they know it’s the yellow house on the corner.”
Nowanden Manor
“We named our house ‘Nowanden Manor’ because we bought it as a vacation and eventual retirement home, meaning that at this point we are there only now-and-then,” said Brian Kaufman.
Briefly: Major yard sale alert – Sonja O’Brien is organizing a city-wide yard sale Saturday, Sept. 26, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting Rescue Ridge animal shelter (click here for TheBPlot article).
Sellers who sign-up will be included in the map of sales, permit acquisition and more. And if you can’t sell…shop!
As of Tuesday, with the launch of her first book “Official Book Club Selection” (Ballantine), comic Kathy Griffin can now add the title of “author” to her long list of credits. The book will absolutely be a best seller – its funny, revealing and dishy. It took two beach days to read the book because its so damn funny. Plus, Kathy gives the reader tons of never before seen photos from her personal collection.
Kathy also strives to educate the reader, explaining, “Only in this book will you learn how the dinner table is the best training ground for a stand-up career…and how speaking your mind can bite you in the ass and buy you a house.”
Even the Table of Contents (below) is revealing…she is taking people down.
I met Kathy yeeearrs ago during my time at Howard Stern and again after her show in Morristown, NJ. (Afterwards, I emailed her agent in California for an autographed photo and never heard back…bitch.)
Her Morristown show was at the moment when Kathy Lee Gifford and Frank finally spoke with Barbara Walters about Frank’s affair. Kathy played five minutes of the interview on a huge screen, adding the colorful commentary she’s famous for as Barbara tossed the softball questions. Hysterical.
She’ll be returning to ”Howard Stern Show” on Sirius, September 9 and “The View” this September 18 (after being banned from the show twice by Barbara Walters personally) – sitting her well-lipoed ass in Elizabeth Hasselback’s chair, while Elizabeth further crowds the Earth’s population with another child.
Foreword: Dear Oprah
Chapter 1: The Littlest Gossip Girl
Chapter 2: Growing Up Griffin
Chapter 3: They Barked, They Laughed
Chapter 4: Kenny
Chapter 5: LA Is My Lady
Chapter 6: To Live and Bomb in LA
Chapter 7: Hot Cup O’ Talk
Chapter 8: I’m a Star! (Okay, A Guest Star)
Chapter 9: Brooke Shields, Don’t Read This
Chapter 10: Talk Shows: Let the Banning Begin
Chapter 11: From Worcester MA to Dick: Stories from the Road
Chapter 12: Nip Fuc###
Chapter 13: Reinventing Myself: I’m Just Like Madonna!
Chapter 14: Reality Check
Chapter 15: My Marriage Begins
Chapter 16: My Marriage Ends
Chapter 17: Fanning Flames in Hollywood, And Yes I Mean Dakota
Last Saturday, despite Hurricane Danny’s wet efforts, the Barefoot Wine Beach Rescue Concert – a “thank you” concert for the Surfrider volunteers who spent the soggy day cleaning our beautiful beachfront – blew everyone away with performances by Grammy nominees Joss Stone and Gavin DeGraw (“I Don’t Want to Be”).
Before taking the stage at Convention Hall (my absolute favorite place to see a concert), singer and activist, the beautiful and soulful Joss, took a moment to answer some of my pressing questions.
MEETING IN THE STEAMROOM…WATERMARK’S GREY GARDENS CONNECTION…A NEW GREY GARDENS PRODUCTION…TEX LOGAN, GLORIA GAYNOR, FELIPE ROSE AND…A FLOGGING BUSINESSMAN…ALL IN ‘YOU SAY WHO’ THIS LABOR DAY WEEKEND
TBP: It’s so fab to have you in Asbury Park honoring the wonderful volunteers who tidied up our beach on this muggy, rainy day. Do you have any great beach memories to share?
Joss: Going to Putsborough (beach in the UK on the coast of North Devon) when I was young with my siblings and good friend Bonnie. I loved going to the beach then and still do.
TBP: How have you seen the loss of Michael Jackson effect the music industry?
Joss: It’s affected the music industry as much as when we lost James Brown. It is very sad but his music still lives on.
TBP: What was your fave Michael Jackson Song?
Joss: All of Michael’s songs are great.
TBP: I wrote recently that a friend was at Whitney Houston’s listening party for her new CD (see “Whitney’s Back Baby”), where Whitney announced to the audience that if she was not singing again she would “be selling fruit from a stand somewhere in the Caribbean” with her daughter. Seriously. If you were not a musician and singer, what would you be doing?
Joss: I’d be a carpenter, midwife, potter or baker.
TBP: Interesting. You are a vegetarian – its one of the things I admire most about you. Every vegetarian I have met has stunning skin, shiny hair and sparkling eyes, as do you. Any advice for people considering the vegetarian lifestyle?
Joss: I would say just stop eating meat…it’s really not that hard. It’s just food.
TBP: You don’t seem like the rock-star Jaegermeister-swilling type of gal. I envision you delicately holding a glass of sparkling wine. What type of wine is in your cellar?
Joss: It depends on what kind of moment it is. I lean more towards Barefoot Wine’s white wine but then sometimes I like red. Sometimes, with my friends, we mix the two together and have a rose.
TBP: What’s the funniest item in your contract rider?
Joss: My foot spa – so I can clean my feet after I get off stage. (Joss is known to perform barefoot…very beachy).
TBP: My friend Emily Manni just loves you in Showtime’s “The Tudors”, playing the role of Anne of Cleves. Any scoop? Jonathan Rhys Meyers is so painfully hot.
Joss: I’ll be back in “The Tudors” soon.
TBP: Busy lady…you have a CD on deck to release, too.
Joss: Yes, maybe in October is the word I hear, but this could change.
TBP: You have a huge following in the GLBTI community. Would you like to say anything to your gays in Asbury Park?
Joss: Thanks for your support. Be you – regardless of anyone else. Just be you.
TBP: So well put. Actually, I think you should put that to song. Thanks Joss.
The small house at 7 1/2 West End Court in Long Branch where one-time renter Bruce Springsteen wrote “Born to Run,” “Thunder Road” and other songs on the “Born to Run” album is up for sale for $299,000.
The house came on the market this past weekend, said Susan McLaughlin, an agent with Keller Williams Realty.
The one-level home, built in the traditional southern shotgun-style, is 928 square feet, has high ceilings, two bedrooms, living room, galley kitchen and one bathroom. “It has a sweet front porch, a dear little front porch behind a hedge,” McLaughlin said. There’s also a small private backyard with a patio.
“It has a newer bathroom and it is in essentially the same condition that it was when Bruce lived there in 1974, 1975,” McLaughlin said.
According to “Rock & Roll Tour of the Jersey Shore” by Jean Mikle, a reporter at the Asbury Park Press, and Stan Goldstein, an editor at the Star Ledger, Springsteen wrote “Born to Run,” “Thunder Road,” “Backstreets” and many other songs on the iconic album at 7 1/2 West End Court.
“During the “Tunnel of Love’ tour (in 1988), Bruce would talk about how he was sitting on the edge of his bed and wrote “Born to Run’ while living here,” the two wrote.
McLaughlin’s phone has been ringing off the hook since it became known that a home with a Springsteen connection was up for sale. “The locals have always known about it,” she said of the home’s lore.
The home’s provenance is important in marketing the house, she said. “As locals and old friends of Bruce, we don’t want to capitalize on that,” McLaughlin said. “We have to make sure it doesn’t turn into a free for all.”
She has received interest from potential buyers and is requiring buyer prequalification before showing it.
“I am going to be very busy over the next couple of days showing it,” McLaughlin said.
Each year, over 25,000 beaches in the United States are closed or posted as unhealthy . To remedy this, Barefoot Wine and Surfrider Foundation encourage local residents to volunteer at cleanup and restoration events across the country to help make these beaches “barefoot-friendly.”
The Barefoot Wine Beach Rescue Project is back for its third straight year, and this time it’s bigger than ever! In celebration of Surfrider Foundation’s 25th Anniversary, Barefoot Wine and the Surfrider Foundation are rescuing, renewing and restoring 25 beaches this summer.
The Barefoot Wine Beach Rescue Project will rap up in Asbury Park, NJ with a multi site beach clean up and after party on August 29th sponsored by Barefoot Wine and Surfrider Foundation. Musical guests will include Mason Jennings and others to be announced.
Cleanup: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Meeting points:
South end of Boardwalk near the end of Asbury Avenue
Middle of the Boardwalk near end of 5th Avenue
North End of the Boardwalk near the end of 8th Avenue and Deal Lake Drive
VIP reception for all cleanup attendees: 5-6 p.m.
The Stone Pony
913 Ocean Ave
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Directions PDF | Google Maps
Concert (at The Stone Pony): 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
With special musical guests Joss Stone, Gavin DeGraw, Cold War Kids & Mason Jennings! More Info: http://www.beachrescueconcert.com
Note: To attend this event, you must RSVP. VIP is reserved for those who attend the cleanup only. Entry is on a first come, first serve basis. You must stay the complete time for the cleanup to be granted admission to the VIP.
LAST month, Howard Roche and Luke Magliaro [photo left], owners of the iconic Moonstruck restaurant, quietly celebrated two decades of palate pleasing. In an exclusive Coaster and TheBPlot interview, they discussed the evolution of their business, partnership and passion for putting the customer first…
“Twenty years ago we cracked our first egg, diced our first onion,” said Howard, referring to their first restaurant in Ocean Grove, The Raspberry Cafe. “This is our passion and our pleasure.”
Before everything new in Asbury Park, there was Moonstruck on Lake Avenue, which Luke and Howard opened in 2000, after a three year search for the ideal spot.
MADISON MARQUETTE EMPLOYEE TROUBLES…CELEB CHEF SCOUTING ASBURY…NEVER LEND $$$ TO FRIENDS…REQUESTS VILLAGE PEOPLE ARE SURPRISED YOU WILL LEARN…LESBIANS FIGHT OVER BOOBS…MARRIED STRAIGHT GUY PAWS BOOBS…”FULL MONTY” SECRET CRUSH…AND MORE IN ‘YOU SAY WHO’ THIS WEEK
“We always knew Asbury Park had a pulse and was alive – it was a natural fit for us, living and working in the area since the early 1980’s,” said Luke, who worked at the Adriatic and Cypress Inn earlier in his career. “Howard and I would ride our bikes around the City scouting out locations until we saw the ‘For Sale’ sign on this beat-up building that used to be a bar and restaurant – which in the 20’s was a guest house, the 40’s was reported to be a ‘house of ill repute’ and from the 60’s on was some form of bar, restaurant or dance club.”
The guys jumped through fiery hoops to purchase the building [photo below left] and worked even harder, with local architect Jim Watt, to gut it to “almost nothing,” then adding everything it takes to run a first-class restaurant, the exterior porches you see today, a warm, welcoming interior, luxe restrooms and pristine landscaping.
“In the beginning it was Mr. Fashion and us in town,” said Howard, who recently introduced valet parking for guests.
After twenty years of unwavering dedication, Luke and Howard have earned effusive praise and hugs. Moonstruck, to me, is absolutely the number one, best and most consistently indulgent and welcoming restaurant around – from original entrees to detailed service to luscious drinks to the relaxing and elegant atmosphere.
“I defy anyone to find a finer, top-notch restaurant from front to back of the house than Moonstruck…anywhere,” said Carolyn Curtin, Asbury Park resident. “Luke and Howard are first-class men. Congratulations to them for twenty years of excellence.”
Every customer I spoke with echoed Carolyn’s sentiments, however Luke and Howard don’t rest on praise, working with an ever-evolving menu.
“We serve what we would like to eat and what reflects the personality of our customers – the menu has no ‘sleepers’,” said Howard who has prepared meals at Moonstruck for James Gandolfini, Katie Couric, Ben Affleck, Frankie Avalon, and Mr. Springsteen among other top-secret fancy names. “Our seasonal menu is focused around what’s fresh and what we can be proud of. Many of our customers don’t want to feel stuffed, eating heavy food during the summer, so we make sure we have amazing salads and fish, like our Wild Alaskan Halibut.”
Moonstruck is the place I take any first-time Asbury Park visitor because it’s a guaranteed great evening, minus the chaos of the boardwalk.
“Luke and Howard are gentlemen who care about their customers, employees and the community,” said Janet Manni, Century 21 Coastal Realtors, who has known Luke and Howard for decades.
In a town where chefs send out press releases announcing a new chicken breast recipe and expect a parade when they give back to the community, Luke and Howard enjoy the subtlety of their restaurant rock star-dom, calling themselves the “Wayne Newton” of dining.
“We are not the hippest or coolest but we have a great audience who keeps coming back and who appreciate the quality we insist on – just like Wayne,” said Howard. “Every award we’ve received over the years is because we earned it. We’ve never lobbied our customers to vote for us. There is a attractiveness to learning about a special place instead of being told.”
Finally, after twenty years, what was their biggest mistake?
“I should have gone to refrigeration school,” said Howard, laughing, during one the last week’s 95 degree days in town. “I wish I could fix everything myself to make sure everyone is always, always comfortable.”
Read TheBPlot’s additional coverage of Moonstruck through the years, including how the restaurant got its name by searching “Moonstruck” or clicking HERE.
THE smart and sensible article below from the “pet” section of MarthaStewart’s web site, is fabulous - shedding light on how companion animals wind up in shelters and why no one should be afraid of adopting from a shelter.
While we are on the subject of animal shelters, Asbury Park resident and pet lover, Sonja O’Brien is organizing a city-wide yard sale on September 26 - with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Rescue Ridge animal shelter - and needs your help. (Sonja’s also the brains behind Asbury Park’s Lamppost Banner Program).
“Rescue Ridge is a unique animal shelter that takes in cats and dogs mostly deemed unadoptable and close to being euthanized,” said Sonja. “They work tirelessly with these animals to rehabilitate them and place them in a loving home. I personally took a tour of their operations and witnessed a team of dedicated volunteers.
“To turn unwanted items into a good cause, kindly pledge to have a yard sale and then donate at least ten percent of the proceeds directly to Rescue Ridge. All participants of the yard sales will receive their address listed in the advertising, all fliers posted around the area and will also fall under the town-wide permit that is required.
“And if you don’t want to have a sale, no worries…every sale needs buyers.”
You sell your extra stuff (we all have it). Or buy someone else’s (you’ve got room). Innocent animals benefit (there’s no better cause). And Sonja does the tough lifting (figuratively) and coordinating. It couldn’t be easier to do something positive and helpful.
I’m happy to report that overall, people seem to be getting better-educated about the amazing animals that exist in our country’s shelters and rescue groups. However, myths about shelter animals still exist. And the fears elicited by these myths only deter otherwise well-meaning people from finding their new best friend through adoption.
So I’m calling on all of you animal lovers out there to help me dispel these destructive myths! Are you in?
First of all, it may be helpful for people to understand that most animals wind up at shelters through no fault of their own. According to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, moving is the primary reason family pets are relinquished.
And landlords that don’t allow pets are one of the biggest obstacles for renters with companion animals. (Big kudos to any landlords out there who accommodate our furry family members: Research actually shows that this makes good business sense, too — but that’s a topic for another post!) Similarly, shelter personnel report that many companion animals are relinquished because an owner has died or is relocating to a senior facility that prohibits pets.
Other reasons topping the list include the cost of regular pet care, a lack of time, and allergies. Additionally, animals given as gifts (bad idea!) often end up at the shelter either because recipients are unable to keep them or the animals grew up and no one planned for them getting bigger. And it is a sad fact that litters born to unaltered animals often wind up in shelters en masse — all the more reason to adopt from the shelter, as they typically come already altered!
Finally, one of the most avoidable reasons that loyal family pets find themselves at the shelter is because they got lost and did not have a micro-chip or tag to facilitate a reunion with their family. I cannot overstate the importance of having both a tag and a micro-chip! So many well-meaning people proudly declare that their companion animals don’t need to have identification because they never leave their side. But unforeseen events can happen. You get the point.
Needless to say, these perfectly adoptable animals are ending up at shelters through no fault of their own! So it’s up to us to help them get into loving homes and to take the necessary steps to keep them from entering the shelter in the first place.
So I’ll ask you once again… are you in?
In Kinship,
Dr. Pia Salk, MarthaStewart.com, (8/23/09)
She’s not just beauty…she can write, too. A friend at HarperCollins sent me the note below about the fabulous RuPaul – she’ll be taking a break from enjoying her favorite meal – a TicTac and writing a book…
RuPaul, the world’s most famous drag queen of all-time and television host of Logo’s RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE, is writing the book WORKIN’ IT! RuPaul’s Guide to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Style!
“If you weren’t lucky enough to inherit a fabulous sense of style from your parents, you can certainly cultivate one using the tried, tested and found true tools in my book, ” said RuPaul.
The book, published by It Books, is part style guide, part confidence manifesto and just like Ru, entirely fabulous. WORKIN’ IT! will provide helpful and provocative tips on fashion, beauty, style and confidence for girls and boys, straight and gay – and everyone in between. With photos by Mathu Andersen from the new season of RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE and a fresh look at style and inner beauty, the book will be as colorful, fun, and intriguing as RuPaul, with insights into makeup, clothing choices and the illusion of drag.
Fans of RuPaul will get piece of Ru’s philosophy on style and attitude – and how it’s more than the clothes that make the man, or woman.
Look for this in stores in early 2010, just in time for the second season of RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE on Logo and more gossip in ‘You Say Who’ from a local who works for Logo.
THEBPLOT – THE AREA’S MOST-READ LIFESTYLE SITE…FIRST WITH FUN EXCLUSIVES
Lately, I have been so amazed at the gorgeous, fun products created for our companion animals.
From $2,000 hypo-allergenic dog beds made of 18 karat gold fabric to simply elegant leashes created from sailboat rope or “green” leases made of recycled billboard paper to ceramic Burberry water bowls featuring the famous nova check plaid.
I read – I believe in Forbes Magazine – consumers, despite the recession, are choosing to spoil their dogs and cats because they believe the return on investment far outweighs the expense or sacrifice associated with the purchase. I can totally agree with that.
AN UPDATE ABOUT THE TIDES HOTEL’S ROBERT DURAN…FORGETTING THE MONEY SHOT WITH LINDSAY LOHAN…HUGE TWENTY YEAR ANNIVERSARY…REALTOR GAMES…THE PRETENDERS’ CHRISSIE HYNDE…ALL IN ‘YOU SAY WHO’ THIS WEEK
Artist, Natalie Timm, formerly of Spring Lake, has created a wonderful and original product that benefits both pets and their owners – turning ugly into art.
Natalie paints beyond beautiful custom pet placemats – featuring an original portrait of your companion animal – taking a unsightly and generic feeding area and making it special and one-of-a-kind.
“The floor is the last frontier of art and the placemats are another layer of art for one’s home,” said Natalie, founder of NatsPetMats. “Original art in everyday surroundings is my joy to make. I wanted to provide people with long-term great experience every time they look at the placemat.”
After completing the questionnaire on Natalie’s website I answered more of her specific questions about my preferences and Truman. Afterwards, I sent specific photos of the “model”.
“I interview the client and offer choices to get people thinking however I want a feeling of exactly what the customer is dreaming of and what he or she likes,” said Natalie who paints with her dog Zoe by her side. “The more custom it is the more people and their guests will love it.”
Natalie also requested photos of the area of my kitchen where Truman’s bowl sits and descriptions of colors I prefer. I am color blind so that was tricky, however patient Natalie took the time to make sure the placemat flowed with the rest of the house – both in color and design.
“I study the individuality of each pet’s features – their eyelashes, whiskers, fur patterns, muscle tone,” said Natalie. “I paint a few ‘tests’ in watercolor until I feel I have captured the energy and individuality of the pet. Then I paint the placemat.”
The entire process takes Natalie more than ten hours and it shows. I wanted to frame Truman’s mat (made from recycled or repurposed vinyl flooring). Natalie captured his energy, excitement and curiosity – even getting his spots correctly positioned in the portrait. I smile every time I see the placemat.
“Right now, I am working on a placemat for a newly married couple in Sea Girt who adopted two dachshund puppies,” said Natalie. “They want the mat to be a benchmark as they grow up so they can always have a memory of their dogs as puppies.”
We live in an art infused town. There’s no reason for our companion animals not to enjoy their own custom masterpieces.
The snoring sound you are hearing is not coming from a vacationer sleeping on our glorious beach…its from the editors at the New York Post asleep at the keyboard again. For the second time this month TheBPlot has beaten the big guys to a story.
Saturday’s edition of New York’s best tabloid newspaper touted on Page 3, “Dylan’s a Complete Unknown” and detailed rock legend Bob Dylan was stopped by a Long Branch policewoman who believed he was a vagrant and loitering at the Ocean Place Resort.
YOU already knew the deal, and more detail, if you read TheBPlot’s “You Say Who” page on August 8 – a week before The Post picked up the story, using this site as one of its fact-checking sources.
As always, thanks always to the great sources who help TheBPlot bring you fun, local dish first.
J. Randy Taraborrelli, noted New York Times best-selling celeb author (writing pretty much about every gay icon imagineable) is poised to release his latest dishy, well-researched and sourced work, ”The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe” (Grand Central Publishing), just in time for your late summer beach reading.
Every top producer I know considers J. Randy the go-to guy for exclusive and accurate dish, most recently regarding Michael Jackson, whom he began writing about in 1991. Using his unparalleled access to the Jackson Family and its team, he has broken numerous news exclusives about what is going on with Jackson’s out-of-control estate, children, mother Katherine, Debbie Rowe, contract negotiations, Michael’s body, his brain and more.
J. Randy’s applied that same research and source development skill to “The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe”, available nationwide August 25.
When you think there is nothing more that could be said about Marilyn, J. Randy [photo right] gets the never-before-revealed, fresh info – and photos, tons of never-before-seen photos – that every Marilyn fan needs through unparalleled access to newly released FBI, Secret Service and medical files and interviews with security personnel, family, friends and more.
Before Entertainment Tonight and The View, before People and Us Magazines, before the sit-down with CBS’s Harry Smith, sources told TheBPlot exclusively – despite protests from the book’s publicist – what everyone will be talking about later this month:
1. When Norma Jean Baker became famous as Marilyn Monroe in the 1950s, she said her mother, Gladys Baker, was either dead or not a part of her life, depending on the publicity campaign of the moment…neither was true.
2. Marilyn’s mentally ill mother was very much present in her world and created a complex family dynamic that unfolded behind the scenes as the star went from actress to icon – revealed for the first time.
3. The shocking scope of Marilyn’s mental deterioration and her desperate attempts to help herself.
5. The identity of Marilyn’s real father and the half-brother she never knew – revealed for the first time.
6. The potent story of Marilyn’s closely guarded friendship with Pat Kennedy Lawford.
“The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe” - explosive, revelatory and moving, it is the final word on the life of one of the most fascinating and elusive legends of the twentieth century.
J. Randy Taraborrelli’s library of title:
Diana : A Celebration of the Life and Career of Diana Ross (1985)
Michael Jackson – The Magic and the Madness (1991; updated in 2003 and 2004. In 2009 the book was updated with the name of Michael Jackson – The Magic, the Madness, the Whole Story)[1]
Sinatra – Behind the Legend (1997; updated in 1998)
Jackie, Ethel and Joan: Women of Camelot (2000)
Madonna – An Intimate Biography (2001; updated in 2002)
Purchasing a dog or cat is like eating veal – gross and unnecessary. Commoditizing any life is appalling. It’s almost as horrific as selling someone else’s kidney.
No matter how great the breeder is, purchasing a companion animal lubes the wheels of puppy mill commerce. Have you seen the “Oprah” and National Geographic Channel programs about puppy mills?
Recently, I was introduced to a local animal shelter that is devoted to rehabilitating and finding good homes for dogs and cats in our area.
The ultimate in housefire karma…Ocean Grove’s newest phone sex operator…A Madison Marquette stud is too handy…The “Grey Gardens” cure…Madonna talks Duchess…Realtor not really straight…ALL IN ‘YOU SAY WHO’ THIS WEEK
“At the Rescue Ridge shelter, we take the most unadoptable animals and invest the time in making them very adoptable,” said Brian Watkins, volunteer dog handler and three-year Asbury Park resident. “Sometimes it takes months, sometimes weeks and sometimes a day or two but we are dedicated to working as hard and as long as it takes to rehab and find a good home for these dogs and cats.”
Brian lives by, err…with what he says. He and his girlfriend, Marilyn McGarvin, adopted their companion animal, Gunnar (an adorable pitt bull) from the shelter.
“Gunnar was an ‘eleventh hour’ dog – slated to be euthanized by the SPCA after being housed there for one year – until Rescue Ridge stepped in,” said Brian, who with his girlfriend Marilyn has been volunteering at the shelter for three years. “Today, he is a super part of our family.”
Gunnar is also paying it forward by serving as a “dog therapy dog” at Rescue Ridge, headquartered on a farm in Howell.
“What Gunner does with the other dogs makes my jaw drop,” said Brian. “Having a balanced dog around the other dogs speeds up training considerably. It’s something you have to see to believe.”
GUNNAR SMILING
Rescue Ridge was founded in 2001 by Terri Willis. Terri worked tirelessly – some would say gave her life – for stray animals.
“At fifty-one years old, Terri needed and had the opportunity to receive a heart and lung transplant,” said Brian. “The physicians stressed that she could not be around anything that could compromise her health – including stray animals. Terri told the doctors to find someone else for the transplant because more than anything she wanted to continue taking care of animals.”
Today, Terri’s passion for helping companion animals – including horses and, one time, a chicken – lives on thanks to her friends Marybeth Tkach, president; Maureen Bedard, assistant director of Rescue Ridge.
Brian, like me, is passionate about the fact that many people are missing out on the love pitt bull dogs from Rescue Ridge give because they suffer from pitt bull ignorance.
“The American Kennel Club rates pitt bulls better in temperament for families than Cocker Spaniels, Collies and many other dogs,” said Brian. “There are just a handful of breeds that rate better, like the Golden Retriever. It is all about how any dog is raised.”
It really is how the individual dog is raised. Anyone who has met my Truman, found on the street by Carolyn Curtain three years ago, will tell you he has so much love to give.
Additional locals who volunteer their valuable time at Rescue Ridge: Doreen Babo, Tinton Falls; Katie Elko, Tinton Falls; Chris McCarthy, Asbury Park and Joni Wuchter, Wall.
Cheers to everyone taking the time to take care of innocent four-legged friends.
Rescue Ridge is not rated by Charity Navigator. Executives at Rescue Ridge did not respond to repeated requests (under direction of Charity Navigator) for information, during a two week time-period, regarding the disbursement and allocation of donations. While, in my opinion and others, this creates more questions than answers, the lack of response has no reflection on the documented success and dedication of the volunteers and the many, many, many companion animals the non-profit has helped.
The perfect money shot taken Monday morning – the most gorgeous day of the week – by frequent Asbury Park visitor, Alexander Dodge, while sitting in first class, on a plane leaving Newark Liberty Airport. Asbury Park and Ocean Grove look so spectacular and peaceful. I immediately thought of Bette Midler’s song…really spectacular.
TheBPlot has exclusive news about a new book, “Letters of Little Edie Beale: Grey Gardens and Beyond” (Authorhouse) slated for publication Fall 2009, that reveals never-before-published personal letters from Little Edie, her commentary on the world and her family and more by noted “Grey Gardens” historian, Walter Newkirk.
The first scoop and look about the book below. An exclusive preview is coming soon, including an interview with Walter here at TheBPlot and in The Coaster next month.
“Letters of Little Edie Beale: Grey Gardens and Beyond”, collected and edited by Walter Newkirk, is a sequel to ”memoraBEALEia: A Private Scrapbook About Little Edie Beale of Grey Gardens“. The tome will be available to the public the Fall of 2009 (pub date TBA) on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com and in bookstores nationwide.
“Letters of Little Edie Beale: Grey Gardens and Beyond”, will contain almost 100 transcripts of the most engaging and entertaining cards and letters written to the author by ”Little” Edie Beale from 1977-1987 and from 2000 up until a few months before Edie’s death in 2002.
LITTLE EDIE’S UNIQUE REMEDY FOR AN EAR INFECTION…NEXT WEEK
In her facinating letters, Edie discusses her life post-Grey Gardens, politics, 9/11, her cousins Jackie and Lee, politics…and much, much more.
FIRST LOOK, NEW LITTLE EDIE BOOK
The book will also feature several pages of art related to Edie and Grey Gardens by thirteen artists including Bruce Lennon, along with East Hampton residents Giovanni Gelardi, Lois Wright, Andrew Wargo, and Don Duga.
April 22, 1976, as a college journalist, author Walter Newkirk traveled to Grey Gardens, the Beale estate on Long Island, to interview Edie Beale about the movie documentary “Grey Gardens,” for his college newspaper, The Rutgers Daily Targum. Thus began a decades-long friendship between Walter and Little Edie.
During the amazing taped interview, Edie talked about her life, the department of health raid, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Lee Radziwill, Peter Beard, her brothers Phelan and Bouvier, Spanish music, and assorted other topics. Mother Edith Beale is heard in the background.
That 72 minute, taped interview is available as a CD, “Little Edie Live! A Visit to Grey Gardens.” It’s distributed on-demand by CreateSpace and can be found on Amazon.com ($14.99). Its a must-have for any Grey Gardens lover.
The author dedicates his new book to Edie Beale, whose spirit and life on stage and film touches many people nationally and internationally. Letters From Little Edie Beale is also dedicated to Rutgers University and the Rutgers Daily Targum for their marvelous and steadfast support of Newkirk’s books. The Targum was, in fact, the genesis of his first book, and the catalyst for his friendship with Edie Beale.
FIRST LOOK #2, LITTLE EDIE BOOK
Walter Newkirk was inspired to compile the collection of letters from Little Edie in this book by Barry Qualls, Vice President and Professor of English at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He first became acquainted with Professor Qualls as a freshman at Rutgers in 1972 as a student in his class.
For TheBPlot’s recent exclusive four-part interview with Bouvier Beale – Little Edie’s nephew, click:
The curtain rises next Thursday (August 12) on ReVision Theatre’s newest production – “The Full Monty”. Yes, once again, ReVision has put together an amazing cast which, for the first time, includes Bob Angelini.
Bob, who also serves as the Drama Coach for Ocean Township High School’s West Park Players, and his wife, State Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini, spoke with me exclusively while they were vacationing in Spain last week to discuss the production…and the exposure it’s famous for. (EXTENDED ONLINE INTERVIEW).
TBP: “The Full Monty” is a musical about six unemployed Buffalo Steelworkers who recognize and prepare for a new income opportunity – all the while facing universal fears and demons and recognizing the value of friendship. What role will you be playing in the musical and what attracted you to it?
WHICH character will a runner-up from Israeli “American Idol” play…WHICH straight twentysomething area resident…WHICH Asbury Park restaurant and caterer…Bob Dylan, Solomon Dwek and WHO has more meat passed through than the Carnegie Deli…
Bob: I’ll be playing Reg Willoughby, a mill worker and union leader. I wasn’t attracted to it. I begged for a part and the ReVision guys felt sorry for me.
TBP: I am so sure casting you was simple. How are you preparing for the role?
Bob: Mostly in front of the mirror. It’s not a big part…but remember there are no small roles, only small actors.
TBP: You have been on ReVision Theatre’s Board of Directors since its inception, serving as a wonderful ambassador and fundraiser. What are you feeling in anticipation of taking the stage for the first time next week?
Bob: It’s next week? Now I’m nervous…thanks a lot.
TBP: Your performance will bring new meaning to Roosevelt’s quote, “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” Would it be more appropriate to say you will be wielding a yardstick or a simple ruler on stage?
Bob: It’s a bit part but I am growing into it.
TBP: OMG how fab are you. Will there be manscaping involved in your costuming, my metrosexual friend?
Bob: I’m thinking maybe a nice topiary…
TPB: Theatre people love topiaries! There literally is not one person who I have met who does not think the world of you and Pat. Does this role have either of you concerned about over-exposure?
Bob: Her name is “Mary Pat”. She’s so nice they named her twice. Mary Pat is extremely supportive of what I do and a great fan of the arts.
Don’t tell her I am doing this. I’ll be using the stage name “Mike Easter” so as not to draw so much attention. (laughs)
Mary Pat: Not in the least! For 23 years I have had the pleasure of seeing Bob in many wonderful productions.
TBP: Sorry about the mistake with your name, Mary Pat. Pleeeease don’t have me audited. Bob, can you give us a preview of what’s in store for us at the Carousel Building when the show opens Thursday?
Bob: ReVision is bringing Broadway to the beach. All the talent is top-notch – directed by (Asbury Park resident) David Liedholdt, the cast includes many Equity actors. The show is hilarious and we can’t wait to share it with everyone. “The Full Monty” will not disappoint.
TBP: What was your fave ReVision production so far?
Mary Pat: “Hair”.
Bob: “Hair” (named “Best of NJ” by NJ Monthly, August 2008) was my personal favorite and “Kingdom” was amazing. I never thought I would like a hip hop musical but “Kingdom” was an operetta of the present. I often said, “What do kids see in hip hop or rap?” After “Kingdom” it was apparent – this music is a true art form and when coupled with the story of two kids trying to find themselves in their lives, I was hooked.
TBP: Why is ReVision important to our community at large and vice-versa?
Mary Pat: The arts are an integral part of any economic development plan. The ripple effect the productions have on our businesses is invaluable.
Bob: ReVision brought more than 5,000 people into Asbury Park last year during the run of “Hair”. Arts patrons spend an average of $50 in town before or after a performance. Multiply that by thousands.
Mary Pat: As I talk with people, they clearly are feeling the crunch of the bad economy, are fed up with crooked elected officials and experiencing a general feeling of malaise. More than ever, it’s important to enjoy an evening of fun and escapism. “The Full Monty” is just such an opportunity.
REVISION TEAM
TBP: Bob, as a ReVision Theatre Board member, you are involved in choosing the shows to produce each year. How does the vetting process work?
Bob: The Board, subscribers and others suggest shows and our artistic directors painstakingly review scripts with a goal of presenting fresh, new works or past works with a fresh new persepective. We owe our success to founders David Liedholdt, Stephen Bishop-Seeley and Tom Morrissey – together they have 700 years in the theatre, at least it seems that long, given their talent. We are lucky to have them in Asbury Park.
AUG. 12 to SEPT. 6
TBP: Lucky to have you both, too. Bob, your fans can’t wait to see what type of topiary you choose. Break a leg.
TheBPlot is thrilled to be a emphatic supporter of ReVision Theatre and its ongoing, creative and innovative productions. Look for TheBPlot’s new ad in “The Full Monty” program.
Sunday, Page Six tried to break the news that Whitney Houston [left] will not be performing live on Good Morning America (Whitney Houston Hates the Morning) in September to promote her new album – rather taping the show the day prior. YOU already knew that – and more detail - if you read last Thursday’s edition of TheBPlot, three days earlier than the New York Post’s world famous must-read.
I bow to the King of Gossip, Mr. Richard Johnson [right], editor of Page Six, my friend since I was with “The Howard Stern Show” however score one for the Asbury Park team and keep reading TheBPlot for more huge national celebrity and local name news and gossip.
As Whitney Houston continues her strategically choreographed “listening tour” – stops have included Beverly Hills and London - to begin the drum beat for the release of her new album “I Look to You” on September 1, I spoke with two friends of Asbury Park and attendees of last Tuesday’s party in New York’s Time-Warner building. Over cocktails on Watermark’s new and gorgeous 2500 sq. foot cedar deck, our friends gave me the exciting first-hand scoop:
“So we are in this amazing space overlooking Central Park. The tone of the event was very formal – everyone sat and listened to the nine tracks and Clive Davis talk a bit in between each track. Normally, at album listening parties the guest are all milling around and talking. Not this one.
“Clive talked about the four year journey to produce this album in front of an amazing group of guests, including: Martha Stewart, Diane Sawyer, Alicia Keys (who wrote one of the tracks), Gayle King, Vivica Fox and tons of the most powerful music and radio industry executives.
“The album will be a huge hit. Whitney is totally, completely back. It’s great to see. There is one pop track that everyone will love and dance to – ‘Million Dollar Bill’ (by Alicia). The track will be another ‘It’s Not Right, But it’s Okay’ remixed a million times. There are a few ballads were you hear her voice has matured and is still smooth and powerful. It will give you goosebumps.
“After about nine tracks were played completely, Whitney came out looking absolutely amazing – glowing, to a loooong standing ovation. It was obvious everyone was rooting for her. She smiled her gorgeous smile. She seemed nervous but really, really happy. Her mom Cissy and her daughter Bobbi were in the room too.
“Whitney took the microphone from Clive, then shared that she was torn as to whether to make this album. She said she seriously considered going south to some tropical island with her daughter and living there selling fruit from a roadside stand and be happy for the rest of her life. She said her mom told her that God gave her the gift of her voice and she needed to share it with everyone again.”
“THOSE TWO DIVAS FOUGHT LIKE DRAG QUEENS FOR AN UMBRELLA ON A RAINY ASBURY DAY…”
Amen.
My friends, I told you Whitney was back and looking great in my January 8 column, after bumping into her in Neiman-Marcus at the Short Hills Mall. It’s thrilling to know that she is reaaaaaally back and in the game again. I can’t love her enough.
I understand Whitney will be sitting down with Diane Sawyer in a few weeks - when, I am sure ABC will become the Whitney Houston Network for a week. It will be curious to see if Whitney performs on GMA and if its live or taped. Last time, she taped her “live” performance in front of Lincoln Center on Sunday afternoon for a Monday airing because “her voice is better later in the day.” But, that’s also when she was allegedly higher than the Condors.
You’ll remember when Diane and Whitney spoke previously, Whitney, with that disgusting human being Bobby Brown by her side, said to Diane, “crack is cheap…only poor people smoke crack.” Ug.
And…Oprah Winfrey may own the world but don’t expect to see Whitney on the Oprah Show. Unless the diva barrier has been broken recently - if it was, I would have expected Oprah to be at the listening party BTW - I heard those two fought like drag queens for an umbrella on a rainy Asbury day during their last interview, more than a decade ago, when I was working at Maury Povich and we had our moles in Chicago.
Asbury Park’s brand new Mayor, Edward Johnson, graciously answers more of my softball questions.
TBP: What’s your fave Asbury Park moment?
Mayor: I guess I have two. The July 4th Parade, when the community is out and about enjoying themselves. It seems like the one day we can all forget our troubles and just be one city celebrating. Second would be watching football at a local pub with friends and neighbors – it can get brutal.
TBP: Who do you remember as the teacher who impressed you the most the most?
SOLOMON DWECK, REESE WITHERSPOON, JAKE GYLLENHALL, REVISION THEATRE’S SURPRISE STAR IS “FULL MONTY” and WHY THE GRANDE ARCADE’S DIABLO ROYALE WILL NEVER HAPPEN…ALL IN “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW
Mayor: Mrs. Shea in third grade. She would always give you a wink and had a confident and patient “you can do it” attitude. What I admired most about her was her insistence (against the objections of school administrators) that we study a new subject at the end of the 60’s – “Negro History”.
TBP: Go Mrs. Shea and every teacher working hard to do right by our kids. Do you have a poem you love?
Mayor: “The Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe.
TBP: Loooove that poem. What is a pet peeve in people you have?
TBP: We are too easy to believe the worst in others or to disrespect each other, to prove our point or just because we can. There seems to be a breach of civility in society today.
TBP: Asbury Park has many challenges now and ahead to manage. How do you continue to move forward when faced with obstacles?
Mayor: I stay focused and remember that there is more than one avenue to accomplishing a goal.
TBP: Your sexuality was pretty much a non-issue during each of your campaigns. As Asbury Park’s first openly gay mayor, do you have a message you would like to convey to teens or adults living in “the closet”?
Mayor: My message to everyone is very simple – be who you are. I really never concentrate on the fact that I am Black or Native American or gay or a man or an educator. All of these things are the parts that make up the much larger person that I am.
I understand what the significance of my presence in the office of Mayor means to many people. I want everyone to believe that if I can do it, so can they.
I also want them to know that my number one goal is to be the best Mayor for Asbury Park and to build a great city for all who live, work or visit here.
TBP: There is an army of people here – myself included – who have an unwavering passion for this city. What do you want to say to your constituency?
Mayor: What I hope will become a clear message is that this is the time for all of us to put aside our differences and focus on what is best for One Asbury.
I am confident and have great hope for our future. Even with the global economic climate, I believe that this is a time of great possibility for our city. Challenges will present themselves but so will many opportunities. If we join together we will achieve our common goal of rebuilding a great community like Asbury Park. This is a rare opportunity.
TBP: Thank you, Mayor, for taking the time to help us understand what makes you tick.
BRIEFLY: Wednesday’s regular fireworks on the beach (@ 9.10 pm or so) have been moved to First Avenue. “This is so the wealth can be shared on both ends (of the Boardwalk),” said Garrett Giberson. “All spots on the Boardwalk are good viewing spots. Just keep in mind the direction of the wind because tht is where the smoke will blow.”
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I received a press release about a really fab event August 8 at the brand new Silverball Pinball Museum on Cookman Avenue. Produced by the super-talented Aaron Coleman (Halloween Block Party, Road Trip Boardwalk Fashion Show, and tons more) - its sure to be an over the top, fab, original evening of fun.
If you have a pinball fetish, and I know a ton of you do, read on for more…and see you there.
“REPLAY SILVERBALL NIGHT” SILVERBALL PINBALL MUSEUM HALL OF FAME in ASBURY PARK
Pyramid Productions and the Silverball Pinball Museum Hall of Fame has teamed up to throw a one of a kind “balls and tails” party (pinballs and cocktails), which includes three hours of unlimited pinball play, one hour open bar and great music by DJ Rico.
“The classic nostalgia is sure to bring back childhood memories,” said Aaron Coleman, Pyramid Productions. “Replay will be one of the area’s most unique parties to-date.”
Silverball houses what many consider to be the Top 100 pinball games (out of 6,000) of all time – all vintage and impeccably restored, built between 1933 and 1979 – it’s another Asbury Park original.
The museum is located in the 5,000-square-foot basement of Holdfast, a clothing and vinyl records store at 639 Cookman Ave.
The Pinball Fun begins on August 8th, 2009, 9pm until Midnight. Entrance to party is at 639 Cookman Avenue. $35 tickets get one-hour open bar from 9pm to 10pm & unlimited play for 3 hours. 21 and up welcome.
The Harrison Restaurant & Lounge located on Cookman Avenue in Asbury Park will be serving up drinks at this retro museum with a full bar in addition to DJ Rico spinning his beats.
Be sure to buy tickets, as they are sure to sell out fast. Space is limited only 150 tickets available. For more information and tickets go to www.PyramidProductions.info
First-time visitors from Atlanta, Los Angeles and internationally, Israel and Brazil were among the more than estimated 7,500 guests Asbury Park welcomed last weekend during Asbury Park Marketing Fund’s, Road Trip 8.
“What a few of us endeavored to do eight years ago when we planted this event’s ‘seeds’ was to simply share and celebrate Asbury Park with our friends and family in the gay community – collectively reach out to others in a grass roots way,” said Brad Hurtado, one of the weekend’s producers. “Today, Road Trip has become a destination weekend from all over the country and beyond. People come, fall in love with the city and make it their own.”
Road Trip 8 began Thursday evening – thanks to Jill Potter – with a performance by comic Suzanne Westenhoefer at the Stone Pony (attended by 300 people) and ended with an over-the-top circus themed beachfront fashion show, waves crashing dramatically in the background, “Cirque du Asbury” by Aaron Coleman.
“Road Trip makes a great day at the beach more interesting,” said Edward O’Donnell, Philadelphia resident. “Good music and spending time with friends and my extended gay family here is something I look forward to every summer.”
WHICH style icon – who’s been used more than water…AT which Beach Bar bar were “Queer Eye’s” Carson Cressley and…WHICH multiple NAMMY Awardwinner…SPEAKING of closeted guys…WHICH fortysomething local creative type…(All the dish in “You Say Who”)
In between seaside lounging breaks during the lightly breezy 85 degree days, local house parties, cocktails, shopping and dining around town, guests also enjoyed Friday evening’s Kick-Off Party; SandBlast – Saturday’s main event dance party on the beach and Sunday’s Gay History Trolley Tour.
BEACH BEAUTIFUL AT RT 8
SandBlast welcomed 1300 guests – more than double last year’s attendees, including “Queer Eye’s” Carson Cressley and James Dale (whose landmark lawsuit against the Boy Scouts of America made headlines almost a decade ago).
“We loved the fireworks on Saturday choreographed to dance music,” said first-time visitor Carmine Clemente, who, with his partner Chuck White stayed the weekend in Ocean Grove’s Manchester Inn. “Langosta Lounge was great. Watermark was really good. We ate at Market in the Middle twice. Every minute of the weekend was a fun spectacle.”
Area resident Billy Mecca agreed, watching the great circus themed fashion show.
“Cirque du Asbury was a blast – one of the best and memorable events on the boardwalk so far this summer,” said Billy, of BeachBlog.me. “Everyone in the crowd loved every minute of it. The show was an all-age crowd pleaser.”
PHOTO COURTESY BEACHBLOG.ME
Guests also noted the positive change the area is experiencing.
“It’s obvious the city is moving forward,” said Mike Barber visiting with his partner from Philadelphia. “This was the best year yet. We love all the new shops and restaurants on the boardwalk and around town.”
HOTTIES DANCED 'TILL DARK
I heard Mike’s sentiment expressed a number of times and Jill Potter summed it up best about our city.
“Asbury is contagious, once you’re here, you ‘get’ it and you need more of it,” said Jill. “Sometimes its something that you really cant define, and then, there are times you can. Generally, its a feeling of acceptance, it’s a feeling of being part of something, a growth. I think, for the residents, Road Trip is a very proud moment and one which they feel they own.”
Beyond showing off the City, Road Trip has proven to be a valuable weekend for area businesses.
85 DEGREE, VIBRANT BLUE SKY DAY
“The weekend welcomes many to Asbury Park who, in turn, spend significant dollars to support our shops, hotels, clubs and restaurants,” said Tom Gilmore, director of commerce. “Road Trip is one of the city’s premier events and is the type of event that defines our great city as a place for everyone to come have fun.”
For the first time, the Asbury Park Marketing Fund licensed Road Trip to local event producers in order to focus on its mission of promoting the City.
Unless you have been living under a rock, you know Asbury Park named a new leader earlier this month.
Mayor Ed Johnson generously took the time out of his busy calendar to answer some “off messaging” questions about the interesting, energetic and layered Ed we wouldn’t be familiar with from council meetings and dry politico events.
TBP: As a Jersey Boy born and bred, what did you learn while living in New Mexico while attending college?
Mayor: New Mexico was one of the greatest experiences of my life. The people, the culture and my education (book and real life) are with me to this very day.
Ever heard the phrase “The west is a place where a young man or women goes to prove themselves” – that was my experience. It gave me an understanding of the importance of valuing people, saying what you mean, looking someone in the eye and being an active member of a small community. At the edge of town there was nothing but desert so you had to get along.
TBP: Working at Brookdale, what do the students teach you?
Mayor: Brookdale is all about individuals who are looking for something better – to improve. It is amazing to me to see some of these individuals work hard to overcome challenges and eventually walk across the stage to get a diploma and begin a new life.
TBP: What do you do to relax?
Mayor: My favorite activity is laying out at the beach or pool. I find it most relaxing. In high school and college I was a lifeguard / WSI.
TBP: What are your hobbies?
Mayor: Swimming, biking, watching the NFL – I am a rabid Washington Redskins Fan. I picked up golf about two years ago because of my brothers’-in-law and nephew.
TBP: I understand you enjoy cooking, too. What’s your specialty?
Mayor: I make a mean macaroni-n-cheese and during the summer Thai BBQ ribs. I like to try different recipes. I have learned that homemade bread (which mostly resembles a rock) is not my strong point.
TBP: Yum. Is there a talent you wish you had?
Mayor: I wish I could sing. I can’t carry a note to save my life.
TBP: Me either. If you could have only one: wealth, blinding beauty or live to be 125, what would you choose?
TBP: That’s a hard one. Probably live to be 125, in good health. I had a great aunt who was born in 1898 and lived into her 80’s. The things that she saw invented and the advances she saw in society were amazing. I would like to experience a similar life span – although, I seem to be well on my way, being born way last century.
TBP: What was a mistake you have made in life and what did you learn from it?
Mayor: Trying to hide from myself. For a long time I tried hard to live a lie to keep other people happy. It cost me very dearly. I hurt the people I cared most about and myself. I learned how to be comfortable with myself and proud of whom I am.
TBP: That’s a mistake a lot of people make. And brave of you to discuss.
Part Two next week, our Mayor how he manages challenges and his greatest weakness.
Right now I just created a new summer playlist which I mostly listen to at 5:00am in the gym. It includes a collection of everyone from: John Prine, Parliament, Mocedes, KC & The Sunshine Band, India, Van Halen… I like a wide variety of music, mostly “back in the day” stuff!
WHAT PIECE OF TECHNOLOGY COULD YOU NEVER LIVE WITHOUT?
My watch! Time is an important commodity to me. I force myself to leave my watch at home when I go on vacation. It’s hard, but worth it – not to care what time it is – at least for a while.
WHAT PIECE OF TECHNOLOGY COULD YOU ABSOLUTELY LIVE WITHOUT AND WISH WAS NEVER INVENTED? WHY?
The cell telephone! While it is convenient and I use it, our entire world has turned into a phone booth (work, the movies, plane, train, sidewalk, restaurants). People don’t seem to have manners with regard to disturbing the peace with their cell telephone. There are no rules..you can talk as loud as you want, wherever you want, about whatever you want.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEAL?
My grandmother’s smothered chicken & rice and all the fixins. Followed by her homemade Coconut/Pineapple Cake! Mmmmmm! A close second is Maryland Crabs! On vacation, I can sit for a 3 hour crab pickin’ & beer session with no problem!
CHARCOAL OR GAS GRILL FOR BACKYARD BBQS?
Charcoal. I know it’s not too green of me, but charcoal just adds something to the flavor. I do understand the attraction of a good gas grill – ready to BBQ instantly!
WHAT IS THE FIRST WEBSITE YOU LOOK AT IN THE MORNING?
Usually MSNBC.com to catch up on the overnight news. I can be a news junky, flipping between Morning Joe, CNN & several local channels in the morning.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE WEBSITES, IN GENERAL?
I spend a lot of time on Redskins.com during football season. I am also a definite internet shopper – Overstock.com, Amazon.com & Vermont Country Store.com are some of my favorite websites.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
Well my partner Jeff will argue (he puts up with me since I make him watch several silly movies). But I would have to say my all time favorite is Imitation of Life with Lana Turner…It’s all about Lana!.. get with it or get out!
FAVORITE ALL-TIME SONG?
Rock Me Gently by Andy Kim. It’s the song that introduced me to my partner…but that’s another story….
WHAT ENTERTAINMENT SHOWS (NON NEWS) DO YOU WATCH ON TV?
My favorite over this past year was Friday Night Lights…very addicting! When I can, I watch Sordid Lives or Star Trek Original & Next Generation (yes, I am a trekie)
WHAT WAS THE FIRST MUSIC CONCERT YOU EVER WENT TO AS A TEEN?
That was last century! I went to see Meatloaf in the original Bat Out of Hell Tour. Funny, I just saw him again this past year at Paramount Theater. Talk about your life being circular.
“DANCING WITH THE STARS” OR “AMERICAN IDOL”?
Neither!
DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH ON A CELEBRITY OR DO YOU FIND A CELEBRITY INTRIGUING RIGHT NOW? WHO?
Crush? I would say Pam Oliver of Fox Sports. She is hard as nails! You gotta be tough to hold your own against NFL Players. Intrigued by? French President Nikolas Sarkozy. His charm and intelligence, I find him to be a very intriguing leader.
WHAT IS SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT WE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN?
I started my career working at McDonalds in high school…now I’m Mayor…coincidence? You be the judge!
WHAT TANGIBLE OBJECTS DO YOU LOVE AND WHY?
My beach chair which has every Asbury Park Beach Tag for the past 14 summers on it. I can look at each tag and chuckle over each summer’s “shenanigans”. Unfortunately (or fortunately) they seem to get less and less as time goes by. I guess that’s means I’m growing up (or is that growing old?)
WHAT ARE YOUR CATS NAMES AND HOW DID YOU CHOOSE THE NAMES?
Jeff and I have 2 farm tabby cats from my high school in South Jersey. They are 14 years old and have never been separated since birth. Both are very unique in personality, at times they act like they have never seen each other before. Jane – The name just came to me. She is quick with the claws & not to be messed with. Elmira – Named after the Looney Tunes Character that just loves you to death. She’s gonna love you whether you want it or not.
After months of planning, Road Trip 8 – the best and most famous weekend of the summer – is finally here. Naturally, TheBPlot and Coaster - with the official four-page hard-copy pull-out guide to the weekend - have an exclusive look at what’s in store for you.
I spoke with Amanda Lepore, the world’s “most famous transsexual”; Aaron Coleman, Asbury Park event producer extraordinaire and Corey Craig, New York City DJ – three of the hot stars of Road Trip 8, which begins tonight (July 16) with the “Welcome Party” featuring the brilliant comic Suzanne Westenhoefer compliments of AwwMama Productions. (Click here for my exclusive interview with Suzanne last week).
More interviews with the stars of Road Trip 8 at BeachBlog.me. All weekend long, the blog will have photo coverage of events, live Twitter pics and a news feed.
Okay, so…
TBP: Amanda, you are famed photographer David LaChapelle’s muse, had a number one single in Switzerland and are a style icon to many. It’s so fun you are coming to see us for Road Trip this year.
Amanda: I love Asbury Park. Growing up in New Jersey, I have always loved the beach. I think I got lost on the Asbury Park boardwalk as a kid.
The album I have worked on for five years drops next month and I am previewing it live for all my friends in Asbury Park at the Kick-Off Party Friday (July 17).
I’ll perform a smashup of all my songs. Afterwards, there’s a fierce Mundo Unico underwear and bathing suit show. Even later, fireworks (on the beach, 10.45 pm) to a soundtrack by DJ David Marc.
TBP: So much is going on, Amanda. Brad Hurtado has a ton planned. Immediately after the fireworks, The Tides Hotel on Seventh Avenue (hug and kiss away from the boardwalk) – a must-see, completely luxe renovated and hot hangout – is hosting a post-party party with drink specials and Marty’s famous White Cosmo.
The Tides is also throwing no cover charge pool parties Saturday and Sunday afternoon. I love that place to relax with a cocktail on their original Frank Gehry-designed outdoor furniture, surrounded by lush foliage, art, people and architecture. It’s a vacation in our backyard.
Aaron, your Pyramid Productions is producing a one of a kind fashion show on the boardwalk at the Third Avenue Pavillion on Sunday evening (July 19).
Aaron: The show, “Cirque de Asbury” will be no-holds-barred with circus-like performances, along with great style from local Asbury Park boutiques. Models will don their get-ups and strut the boards. Fire breathers and jugglers, stilt walkers and a plethora of other circus-like performers will spice up this over the big-top scene.
TBP: You put a fresh spin on everything you do, Aaron. So talented you are.
Speaking of spin, Corey Craig, my talented friend and favorite DJ – who I must say, also makes amazing macaroni and cheese – I am thrilled you will be spinning at SandBlast Saturday (July 18). Your music is fun, happy, light and energetic – the perfect tone.
Friends from Pennsylvania, New York and everywhere in between still talk about how much fun they had at the beach dance party last year.
What are your picks for a great list of songs people can download to have their own fab summer party?
Corey: Easy – here’s a fierce list for everyone: “When Love Takes Over”, “Heartbreak”, “Sing”, “Now that I’m a Chick”, “Goodbye”, “Some Kinda Rush”, “Paparazzi”, “Hold On”, “Epiphany” and “Release Me”.
Cheers to all the volunteers and their tireless efforts to make Road Trip 8 happen.
Forget relying on Sam Champion to learn the UV index at the beach. The SunMate™ UV Index Monitor enables you to measures the intensity of the sun’s strength wherever you are. At just 2.5″ tall and 2″ wide, The SunMate™ is easy to use and understand, as it measures the sun’s intensity at the push of a button – the product’s LED indicators light up between 1 and 5, depending upon the intensity of the UV light. CVS.com and PurelyProducts.com. $19.95.
Banana Republic Beach House Candle
A great Road Trip hostess gift. Top notes of beech tree leaves, sunny marigold, purple wisteria and honeysuckle nectar mingle with mid notes of English lavender, blooming white hydrangea, lily pond lotus and pink peony petals. The scent is grounded in a base of plush oakmoss, sun-bleached teak wood, burnished sandstone and South Hampton (or New Jersey Shore) hedges, stirring the senses and transforming your environment into a seaside cottage. $24, 7.4 oz candle. Banana Republic stores.
Hermes Beach Towel
Beyond luxury for fancy-pants Road Trip visitors, the Hermes “Top Towel”, 60″ long by 37″ wide. $459. BlueFly.com
This legendary performer deserves an iconic venue, one which matches her unique and unabashed style–Suzanne meet The Stone Pony. Don’t miss this one night only event where the Pony is gay for a day. Fearless, bold, unapologetic, and freaking hilarious best describes Comedian Suzanne Westenhoefer. She’s made a career out of telling the truth. And, the truth is, life is funny and no one is off limits. From her mom’s Last Will and Testament to her dog’s embarrassing discovery, Suzanne shares stories that leave audiences in stitches. Suzanne works mostly unscripted, so when she hits the stage it’s an unpredictable, original night of comedy magic
FRIDAY, JULY 17
Grande Arcade. LOST AT SEA: The Road Trip Oceanside Kickoff Party featuring a live performance by Amanda Lapore. 7:00 PM –11:00 PM. Music by DJ David Marc
Join your friends and two thousand guests in the Grand Arcade for Road Trip’s most popular event. Entry is free, although there’s a suggested donation of $10 which guarantees you a copy of DJ Corey Craig’s fantastic Official Road Trip 8 Mix. Well worth it and your donation helps support these types of events in Asbury Park. Our 42Below Vodka Open Bar is from 7-9PM for $15 and after 9PM your vodka cocktails are just $5 a drink. Enjoy drinks & dinner in the fresh air on Convention Hall’s newly opened north, east and south balconies.
The restored Grand Arcade is where you can have dinner as well with eight participating boardwalk restaurants which will be serving festival style.
Road Trip Runway hosted by Amanda Lapore. 9:00PM
International transexual fashion icon Amanda Lepore performs a smashup of her hit songs on the runway followed by our sexy ROAD TRIP RUNWAY: Mundo Unico Underwear & Swimsuit Show. It all takes place at 9PM in the middle of the party so you’ll have a great view!
Road Trip Fireworks - Soundtrack by DJ David Marc. 10:45 PM – 11:00 PM
Cap off the Road Trip Oceanside Kickoff Party with a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean. Our partygoers will have a front row seat from Convention Hall’s balconies and the boardwalk just outside the Kickoff Party. Fireworks sound track mixed by DJ David Marc, who will be spinning live during the kickoff party.
Erotic Art ExhibitOne Night Only. 11:00 PM – 2AM. TIDES HOTEL: 408 Seventh Avenue. Free
IRONBALL GAMES presents Asbury Park’s 1st Annual GAY BEACH DODGEBALL on 4th Ave Beach! Come Play ($10/player) or watch the hotties dodge! duck! dip! dive! To play in the game, click on the link: http://ironballgames.com/SIGN_UP_TO_PLAY.html.
SandBlast: Dance Party on the Beach. 2:00 PM- SUNSET. Fifth Avenue Beach & Convention Hall’s Beach Bar. $55 At Door. Under 25? Pay Your Age Online
Advocate magazine calls Road Trip “a high-octane weekend of beach parties, splashy art fairs, sports events, dinner galas and customized real estate tours.” Now with SAND BLAST, a daytime dance right in the middle of Asbury Park’s hot gay beach, Road Trip kicks into high gear. DJ Corey Craig starts spinning at 2PM and the hot, sweaty and sexy fun goes til sunset. Enjoy cocktails in the sunshine, beautiful bodies and the most stunning beach in a hundred miles. With a spectacular location facing the Atlantic ocean, the glorious architecture of Convention Hall as a backdrop, a 50′x70′ dance floor on the sand and the perfect music for a beach dance, SAND BLAST will be the highlight of your summer. Supporting The Center in Asbury Park & The Center NYC.
Peek-A-Boo Revue and the Striptease Orchestra – adults only. Asbury Lanes – 209 Fourth Avenue. Doors at 8 PM. Show at 10 PM. $15
Over the past 10 years, in Philadelphia PA, one troupe has kept he spirit of cabaret, burlesque and all-round “showbizzy-ness” alive, by presenting a brand new show each month – The Peek-A-Boo Revue! An adults-only pastiche of Singing, Dancing and Comedy all wrapped up in a Burlesque Show!
All of Asbury Park’s renovated downtown shops and restaurants will be open and welcoming Road Trip guests. Check the art galleries, antique shops, fab clothing stores, pampered pet shop, coffee shops, bookstores, tarot card readings, and more. The cruising happens up and down Cookman and Mattison Avenues from Main Street towards the beach three and four blocks.
SUNDAY, JULY 19
REHAB: Recovery On The Beach. 12:00 AM- 5PM. Fifth Avenue Beach & Convention Hall’s Beach Bar. $5 Beach Badge.
Spend the day on Asbury Park’s Fifth Avenue Beach with hotties from Jersey, Philly and New York City. Food and drink provided by The Beach Bar. All guests will need to stop by one of the kiosks on the boardwalk and purchase a $5 daily beach badge to get on the sand or swim.
Gay History of Asbury Park Trolley Tour. Departure times: 12:00, 1:30, 3:00, 4:30 PM. Guided Tours Depart on the Hour from Convention Hall. $10. These tours always sell out.
Throughout the many ‘phases’ of Asbury Parks history, the one piece that has remained consistent from the 1940’s, thru the dark days of the late 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, to the re-development of today, has been the presence of a Gay community. This tour will bring alive the oft forgotten, yet vibrant, thriving, and sometimes wacky stores of those times.
Hear about Tiny Tim’s Tearoom of the 1930’s, discover where gay British soldiers who were billeted at the Berkeley Carteret and The New Monterey Hotel went to have a drink and find men of a ‘similar type’. Learn about the Blue Note jazz club, Chez Elle (and the role it played in a landmark NJ Supreme Court ruling, that overturned the State Alcohol Beverage Commissions ability to revoke or deny a liquor license to any establishment that served “apparent homosexuals”.) to Dannys,The M&K, Archies, The Loading Dock, Bond on Bond St., the El Moroccan Room, the very first women’s only bar The Owl and the Pussycat, as well as the gay hotels like The Albion The Hudson, and TheAtlantis. Learn not only about The Colony Baths, but the ‘other’ Bath House that existed as well. Hear how the colorful mix of drag queens, rough trade, transvestites, New York City regulars, average ‘Joes’ as well as the more intellectual gay crowd all ate at the 24 hour, Asbury Diner after the bars closed. And finally, hear just a few of the outlandish stores; such as the night the largest dance club in town caught fire and burned – to such the delight of a neighboring bar owner that she uncorked and served champagne to the Asbury Park Firefighters in the streets of Cookman Avenue, as they worked to put out the flames.
Narrated by Asbury Park Realtor, Mark McDonald, the tour is a result of a combination of research by Asbury Park historian, Helen-Chantal Pike, as well as the personal stories of several life long gay and lesbian residents and business owners who were an integral part of those times.
“Cirque Du Asbury Fashion” 6:00 pm. Third Ave Pavilion. $10.
This circus theme fashion show will have edgy performers and unthinkable acts with fashion shown by Style Rocket, B-unique, Lightly Salted, Hold Fast, Bodega Shoppe, Bird, etc and All eyes on you. Langosta Lounge will be serving up drinks outside. Forget Bryant Park come to the AP boardwalk with the Atlantic Ocean behind you and watch a cutting edge fashion show with wild circus performers. Benefiting Revision Theatre. Tickets in advance via PayPal or at the event.
Madonna has “four minutes to save the world.” Next weekend, during Road Trip 7, you’ll have three days to have all the fun in the world.
The amazing Jill Potter, chairperson of the Asbury Park Marketing Fund, producer of Road Trip, and her dedicated troop have an incredible weekend planned for this year’s Road Trip, beginning Friday, July 18. Here’s the first and exclusive scoop – so you actually have time to plan accordingly.
Friday:
The kick-off party is always my favorite event. It’s a must-do. I have heard the words “legendary,” “outrageously impressive” and “best by far” used to describe the party, produced by David Norris and Brad Hurtado. Many more effusive adjectives would be appropriate to describe this party.
This year, you and a predicted two thousand of your neighbors and their road tripping friends will play in the renovated Grande Arcade, including the newly opened north, east and south balconies. Step back and revel in our one-of-a-kind City spirit.
“The theme for the evening is ‘Life is a Party’,” stated Michael Stary, interior designer and event volunteer. “Asbury Park is the jewel of the shore. Fittingly, we will have gem-toned beach balls and beach umbrellas decorating the Arcade.”
Recover quickly from the stunning 9.30 underwear show because at 10.45 pm, a spectacular – and I mean spectacular – twenty-minute fireworks display begins.
“The energy you feel on Friday is so special,” stated Jill. “Special City, special people. I just love this City.”
Is that a firecracker in your pocket or are you just glad to be at Road Trip 7?
Saturday:
Along with all-day frolicking in the sand on one of the top ranked beaches in New Jersey and fun events downtown, Brad Hurtado is producing the first-ever gay dance party on the Asbury Park beach – Sand Blast. We are talking a custom built 50 by 70 foot orange and yellow dance floor on the beach; nonstop music by DJ Eddie Baez and more.
Extra details about Sand Blast, the “dance party of the summer,” next Thursday.
If working your body sunning and dancing on the beach is not your thing, then work your brain by taking the Asbury Park Gay History & Trolley Tour. The dynamic Mark McDonald will host the four, forty minute tours and discuss our city’s history and rich architecture.
I missed out on the sell-out tour last year and can’t wait to be regaled with the juicy history of our beach wonderland this year. FYI, this is a realtor and developer sponsored event. There will be cocktails.
And there’s more – a downtown showcase. Businesses are planning an all day and night event with a “First Night feel – performers, art, fashion, food and more,” Jill stated. “The downtown is an important part of Road Trip excitement.”
Saturday night is free for you to introduce your guests to our City’s great backyard parties and our many super restaurants and lounges. All of them – from Munch to Taka to Mattison Park to McCloone’s, have great Road Trip menus planned.
Sunday:
Organizers have leveraged a ton of the most creative and talented people in town to create a Fifth Avenue beach day for your “mind, body and inner child.”
A ton of fun and different activities are planned beginning at 8.30 am and going on all day. Jump in anytime. From Yoga and meditation with uber-talented Arthur Fama to flag football to volleyball. It sounds like a great, ways to enjoy our beach.
This definitely is lucky seven. We are so fortunate to be part of Road Trip 7.
Road Trip 7 Official Schedule:
Friday: Road Trip Oceanside Kick-Off Party, 7 pm to 11 pm, Grande Arcade at Convention Hall.
Saturday: Sand Blast, Noon to 6 pm, Fifth Avenue Beach. Discounted tickets at SandBlastonline.com.
Asbury Park Gay History & Trolley Tour, 3 pm to 7 pm. Begins at Convention Hall and Fifth Avenue. Reserve a seat at the sign-up table on Friday night or Saturday morning. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour begins.
Downtown Showcase, all day and night, all over downtown, stores and restaurants.
Sunday: Beach Day, all day play, Fifth Avenue Beach. Check out specific event times at the web site: RoadTripAsburyPark.com.
Suzanne Westenhoefer – the very first openly gay comic, in the early 1990’s – rules the stage of the Stone Pony next Thursday (July 16) kicking off the best weekend of the summer, Road Trip 8.
Yes, Thursday. Thanks to Jill Potter’s AwwMama Productions and a new regime in place for the Asbury Park Marketing Fund (the producer of Road Trip) – headed by Wanamassa resident Joe Zarro – Road Trip weekend has expanded for the first time to begin Thursday night.
“We were able to expand the weekend this year because of Jill’s efforts,” said Joe Zarro, co-chair, APMF. “And are so grateful the Marketing Fund can get back to our roots of promoting Asbury Park.”
Suzanne is a fearless, quick-witted party pleaser for everyone. I had so much fun speaking with her in anticipation of her show.
TBP: Your barrier-breaking career also includes being the first openly gay comic on The David Letterman Show. Asbury Park just named its first openly gay mayor. Any advice from one trailblazer to another?
Suzanne: Do what you feel is right. Be strong and don’t let your personal fetishes interfere with your job. Private lives should remain private.
TBP: Are lesbians or gay guys easier to make fun of?
Suzanne: Straight people.
TBP: Will you be doing Michael Jackson jokes?
Suzanne: Can you bury that much plastic without a permit?
Seriously, I think Michael’s father, Joe Jackson, is painfully funny. At the BET Awards, two days after Michael died, Joe stood on stage and told the audience his family was doing okay and in his next breath said, “I want to take a minute to introduce you to my record label.” Watch it on YouTube and your jaw will drop like a PEZ dispenser.
Funny is not always funny and Michael Jackson jokes are just not my thing.
I do think that Michael was one of the most brilliant talents and he was just going to get weirder. Now, we can remember all the amazing dancing and music and forget the baby dangling and nose crumbling.
TBP: Do you and your wife, Jennifer, have celebrity “deal breakers” in your relationship?
Suzanne: Jennifer has a laminated list of at least five celebrities she has to be allowed to sleep with. She needs to get a board that says something like “today it’s Jennifer Aniston.”
My list has been the same for years. I like power lezzies or straight women who are powerful and wear suits – Glenn Close, Martina Navratilova, Martha Stewart, Candice Bergen. Hillary Clinton is totally hot to me, too.
TBP: So what could Hillary expect on a date?
Suzanne: I say things like “You don’t realize it yet but we need to be together.” I know in the first 18 seconds. There is no taking it slow with me. I am always married – no dating. Once I pick you, you are mine until you tell me “no” and then I weep and wail.
I can’t wait to do this Road Trip show. There is nothing better than a loud Jersey crowd. Tell all the girls and boys I can’t wait to see them.
TBP: If you could have one gay man stereotype what would it be?
Suzanne: Gay men always look better. How is it that you can take a pair of jeans and a t-shirt and always look unbelievably great and I just look like a dyke with make-up and jeans and a t-shirt on trying to be put together?
TBP: What will I learn if you show me your Tweets on Twitter?
Suzanne: My real personality. My activism and my shallowness. One minute I am like, “Fight for change.” The next I am all “I want a burger.” It’s me – “Fight for people” then “OMG I need a damn Peppermint Patty.”
I want to rant about expensive dark chocolate. It’s shit. It smells horrible and no one will eat it. I am a Hershey’s gal. Eighty-five percent Cocoa? F**k that. I want a peanut butter cup. Bring back milk chocolate.
TBP: Bruce or Bon Jovi?
Suzanne: Neither. I was not cool growing up. I was a Top 40 girl…Barry Manilow and Elton John.
TBP: How devastated are you about the “John and Kate Plus 8” marriage crumble?
Suzanne: Naturally, I am as f**king shocked as everyone else is. How two people can have eight babies and not be a happy Mormon is a goddamn shock to me.
My girlfriend and I, Jennifer, watched a marathon of the show a few weeks ago. When the camera pans to John as Kate talks about telling John she is having sextuplets, his expression is f**king priceless. That’s the moment it all went wrong and he should have walked out then.
TBP: Who is better matched Rosie O’Donnell and Kelly or Ellen DeGeneres and Portia?
Suzanne: Rosie and Kelly. They are well matched and comfortable – there’s no two people trying to be the stars, which is very difficult.
TBP: Living in New Jersey for 10 years do the “Housewives of New Jersey” bring you fond memories?
Suzanne: I bartended at the Houlihan’s in Secaucus. I knew a lot of gay Italians and there is not one on that show. How can you do a show like that in New Jersey and have nobody that’s gay? Caroline is my favorite on the show, though.
TBP: If you could have only one – wealth, clout, unbelievable beauty or live to be 125 years old, which would you choose?
Covering the circus that was the Liza Minnelli – David Gest wedding in 2002 for Howard Stern, I watched a number of celebrities pass through the side “VIP Entrance” of the stunning Marble Collegiate Church.
Ashford and Simpson drove up in a Rolls Royce and realized there was not as much press at the side entrance, myself and about forty other reporters were at, as there was in the front and got back in their car and drove around the block to the front.
Carol Channing – the most fabulously, wonderfully real celebrity at that wedding - arrived in a taxi (the only attendee I saw to do so), ran across the street in the highest high heels to shake fans’ hands and then spoke so patiently with every reporter. She looked amazing and was so spunky and fun. I never loved her more.
Then, there was a pause two minutes before we were told the wedding was scheduled to begin.
The police scurried to close the entire street to cars and passers by, just stumbling their way from one St. Patrick’s Day festivity to the next, that March 16.
All that was heard was just a quiet hum for a minute or so.
“What’s going on?” Many murmured.
Something was happening. Guards started scrambling. Two police officers looked at the press cluster and said with the fiercest look in their eyes “do not leave this area.”
To the paparazzi and camera men that translated to “stand at attention with your elbows strategically placed.”
Did Liza come to her senses? Did she toss the 3.5 carat Tiffany diamond she flashed at us earlier in the day? Was this joke of a wedding – this spectacle – coming to a halt faster than Rosie O’Donnell’s Chevy Suburban in front of the “Entertainment Tonight” tent set up outside?
Finally, a big, honking, black, shiny Cadillac limousine drove up to our entrance. It stood there for a minute or four without a door opening.
The stringy tired-looking non-Liza fan New York Post reporter standing next to me was getting increasingly annoyed it was taking so long – she wanted to meet her boyfriend at a bar uptown.
We waited. Was someone coming in or was someone running out?
Finally, a security guard got the nod to open the passenger side back door.
Immediately, the fans across the street had a better view than the press people did. They began cheering as Liz Taylor exited the stretch.
She flashed her celebrity smile and waved standing about four feet away from the car – which was odd. Why was she not walking the press line?
What was also odd was that she had on silk slippers. We just thought they were “lady of a certain age” comfortable.
The door to the limo didn’t close.
After Liz had her moment a huge, deafening, throbbing screech overtook the cavernous New York street we were standing on, rattling our bones.
There he was. Mr. Michael Jackson, live – in person stepping out of the limousine. Fans of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds pretty much lost their minds.
No matter what anyone thought about his personal life, this man epitomized the phrase “living icon.”
It was apparent he was not in his right mind. My notes at the time say “his soul had a fog about it. dynamic. huge presence and energy”
He did a huge royal wave to his beyond blown away fans across the street and grabbed Liz’s hand. Despite whatever he was feeling he knew he was making a moment of a lifetime for the fans.
He stood their patiently, shifting every few seconds so everyone got a good photo. There was no doubt he had done this before.
What struck me was his hair. It was so shiny and looked so soft. I wanted to touch it. It was as dark, shiny and flowy as a yard of silk. He wore a white collared shirt, black jacket accessorized with a blinding diamond broach and black tuxedo pants.
His hair primarily covered his pale, almost gaunt face. He rarely lifted his head up completely. He towered above Liz in height.
Oh, and then Diana Ross got out of the limo with whom I later learned was her son, Evan. Her huge, huge, huge unmanageable hair with a personality of its own flying all over.
What was most surprising there was that she let Michael upstage her by getting out of the limo last.
The three icons stood for photos, however didn’t answer one question.
Finally they shuffled, literally, the twelve feet to the door of the church and my Michael Moment – the media money shot of the day – became “HiStory”.
Cheers to fireworks and a fun look at city surfing style this holiday weekend, with the help of long-time wave rider Chris D’Antuono of Long Branch.
“The trend in boardshorts this summer is ultra-lightweight and quad-stretch fabrics in vibrant patterns,” said Vince Troniec, surf department manager at Spellbinders and surf instructor. “It’s a pleasure to wear and nice in the water even if you are not an avid surfer. Oakley’s got great suits and quality.”
Chris wears Oakley’s Micronauts, Tilt and Interlock boardshorts, respectively.
Oakley boardshorts, shirts, sweatshirts and footwear available at Spellbinders and Oakley.com. Create your own sunglasses at Oakley.com. Beach accessories available at Cabana, Swell, Lightly Salted and Style Rocket on the Boardwalk.
Briefly: Five years ago, the Fourth of July fireworks and all the amazing positive and exciting energy surrounding the weekend was the deciding factor for me to move here. It’s been an honor to see the city – including the fireworks – grow even more spectacular each year.
A very special memory for me in 2006 was watching the fireworks from the Berkley’s roof, thanks to my dear friends Ann and Somer Stephenson. After a great party in Ann’s room (she is one of the best party throwers hands down), a few friends and I snuck up the utility staircase to the roof.
I can not even tell you how spectacular the view was both of the fireworks, the stars in the sky and the crowd below. We stood there in silence – no sounds but the ka-booms and crackles of the show. We could see south for miles and the sea breeze was perfection.
Surrounded only by people we cared about. All of us on the roof knew we were having a exceptional, spontaneous Asbury Park moment never to be duplicated. It’s one of my favorite private Asbury Park memories and I will be always grateful to Ann for that moment. I still see the fireworks when I close my eyes and am so thankful.
THEBPLOT – THE AREA’S MOST VIEWED LIFESTYLE WEBSITE
Nothing is sexier than a guy that looks crisp, clean, lightly tanned and smells good during hot shore days and nights, July and August. Four of our seriously fave fragrances guaranteed to ignite something special.
KITON BLACK
A tailored, romantic and masculine, artisan-crafted scent from one of the world’s most exclusive men’s suit makers ($7,000 off the rack, $21,000 custom). Kiton Black leverages fields of the finest-quality ingredients, Italian bergamot, lemon and violet leaves, Cyclamen, Cardamon, Veviter and leather to create this luxe, elegant and original scent. $65, 2.5 oz. Eau de Toilette. Neiman-Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Kiton NYC.
CLINIQUE HAPPY FOR MEN
Very much the ultimate guy’s shore fragrance - taking fresh and clean and creating a spark. The scent stays light and crisp and cool without heating up and changing like traditional men’s fragrances. It’s reminiscent of a night out in the warm, breezy beach air wearing a perfect linen shirt and seersucker shorts. A blend of tart Kaffir Lime and the exotic Kalamanzi fruit morphed with Mandarin and Yuzu and a combination of blond woods including Cedarwood, Mediterranean Cypress and Guaiac, keep Happy’s light balance throughout your night out. $47, 3.4 oz EDT. Clinique counters nationwide.
CORDOVAN by BANANA REPUBLIC
Fashion to fragrance – you can never go wrong with Banana Republic and its sales recently have been amazing. Cordovan is a light, masculine, clean scent of ebony spices, vintage leather, iced lavender and nutmeg presented in a gorgeous wood box. With four stores in our area our friends at Banana Republic make it easy to smell great – especially with this summer steal: buy any two 7.5 ml EDT bottles of the seven fab fragrances (men or women) for $15. $45, 50 ml EDT. Banana Republic stores everywhere.
DKNY MEN
Unique. Strong. Soulful. Inspired by all New York City (or our city) has to offer…the energy – Bergamot and mandarin…the emotion – spicy white pepper and Cardamom and wet Jasmine…the guy – Cedarwood and Patchouli…and the twist – Orris and Vetiver. $65, 3.4 oz EDT. Bloomingdales, Lord & Taylor and Sephora.
DOGS INVITED TO JOIN ASBURY PARK’S JULY FOURTH PARADE
Dogs and their owners have been invited for the second year to participate in Asbury Park’s Fourth of July Parade.
“Last year we had about 15 dogs of all sizes that walked the entire route and a few more that joined in along the way,” said Amy Quinn, owner of dogs Baily and Lance with her partner Heather Jensen. “It was such a hit that parade organizers decided to do it again this year.”
Leashed dogs and their owners should meet at the corner of Sewall and Grand Avenues between 12.15 pm and 12.30 pm on Saturday. The parade will travel west on Cookman Avenue to Main Street. Then walk Main Street north turning east on Fifth Avenue, ending at Kingsley Avenue.
“It’s a slow stroll and a really fun way to see your neighbors and enjoy the parade,” said Amy. “The weather should be great so don’t forget to bring some water for your dog.”
Brian Watkins, Asbury Park resident and dedicated founder of Rescue Ridge animal shelter – a “last chance” shelter for dogs will be on-hand during the festivities with a few wonderful, loving dogs in need of a great home like yours. Rescue Ridge and its unwaivering team of animal lovers is an amazing organization. More to come about the shelter in future columns.
“How great would it be if someone adopted a dog on the Fourth of July,” said Amy.
READY TO SPARKLE FOR ROAD TRIP?
As the city and its homes prepare for Road Trip 8, I wanted to make a shout-out to one of Asbury Park’s best kept secrets – Sparkle Window Cleaner.
You think you clean your windows well, but you don’t. Leave it to a pro once and you’ll never waste your time again. The difference is clear – ha.
Owned and operated by Asbury Park-er Ed Feger Sparkle does the best, most detailed job (inside and out, up and down) around – at the best price. Ed is offering special pricing for Road Trip. Sparkle up. 609.672.1304.
THEBPLOT – THE AREA’S MOST VIEWED LIFSTYLE WEBSITE
A vacation or your mouth is within reach with the new hand-crafted chocolate and caramel extravagances made fresh in Asbury Park by Jack Petronella, owner, Manhattan Jack Confections.
“I wanted to make something special and totally original, just like this city,” said Jack, a five-year Asbury Park resident and graduate of the fancy-pants Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. “After working for a bit at a country club, I travelled to observe some of the best chocolatiers in Italy, France and Mexico. Creating chocolate is a science – I came home and experimented in my kitchen laboratory for two years until I created Chocolate Sushi and Caramel Sushi.”
The treats do look like sushi – a one inch diameter piece of the finest quality chocolate or caramel, rolled in select ingredients to resemble the Japanese staple.
“I use only the absolutely the finest ingredients,” said Jack, who sells more than 100 pounds of his desserts each week which take approximately three days to make, using exacting standards, from start to finish. “Pecans from Louisiana, chocolate from Oregon, peanuts from West Virginia, Macadamia nuts from Hawaii – quality is what counts.”
From the richness of the chocolate to the precisely-sized chopped nuts to the perfectly sweet and succulent caramel, you can sense Jack’s passion.
Each bite is worth the extra time on the treadmill.
“True flavors make the best chocolate and caramels,” said Jack. “Caramel should melt in your mouth in three bites – you should taste Bourbon, vanilla, brown sugar and butter. Fine caramel should never stick to your teeth.”
One of the other most popular items in Jack’s repertoire is his chocolate covered pretzels. I understand the top seller is the White chocolate pistachio drizzled with toffee.
“These are fantastic,” said Donna Arroyo visiting from northern New Jersey, enjoying a pretzel on the boardwalk she just purchased from the Baker Boys shop in the Grand Arcade. “You can taste that these are good and different.”
Jack’s confections are so popular the QVC network has an open invitation for Jack to come on the network to sell his pretzels. QVC expects to sell 30,000 pretzels and hour and, right now, Jack does not have the workspace to guarantee quality control for that type of volume. More to come with that.
Manhattan Jack Confections are available in our area at The Baker Boys, Belmonte’s, Watermark, Il Pavone, Langosta Lounge and Windmill (Ocean Grove, pretzels only).
Manhattan Jack Confections, 732.768.6561.
Briefly: Three fireworks displays in seven days here this year – Wednesday (7/1 and 7/8) Madison Marquette is sponsoring fireworks – as they are all summer long. Saturday, the Fourth of July, the City is sponsoring the show.
“There will be two groupings of fireworks a few hundred feet away from each other on the beach set off simultaneously,” revealed Garret Giberson, regarding the City’s show. “It’s going to be incredible.”
All fireworks begin at 9 pm.
And – on the completely opposite side of chocolate and caramel – imagine being a dentist with decades of experience walking in to see a patient crying because he is about to get his first crown – and I am not talking about a headdress from a beauty pageant. The patient was me recently and I must give cheers to Dr. Sebastian D’Amico of Sunset Dental on Sunset Avenue and his team cheers for their experience, patience, dedication, follow-up and overall ability to make a new situation comfortable for a fearful guy. Major kudos from this difficult patient.
Original hostess gifts for the real master of the house and a creative way to ensure you stay on the cocktail party circuit guest list…
It figures that one of Truman’s favorite leashes comes from a company founded by a Jersey boy with a huge fondness for Asbury Park, who spent his youthful summers in Point Pleasant. Scott Schaible, founder of Ecollargy created the coolest leashes and collars made, literally, from the old billboards you pass on the highway. “An estimated 250 million square feet of billboards go into US landfills each year,” said Scott. “We literally take an old billboard, clean it, stripcut pieces, and sew them into unique products.” The handle of the whimsical leash is wrapped in old bike innertube pieces for a super comfortable grip. Leashes and collars – with a tag that reads “I used to be a billboard” – come in various styles and sizes and wear over time into a soft, washed denim-like texture. They are also insanely reasonably priced. Itzadog.com
Food, treats and even a calming tea for dogs – all 100% natural and made in a human-food San Diego-based bakery. The facility is FDA inspected and humans actually sample the food as part of the quality control process. I can’t stand how much I love this company. Truman can’t pick a favorite – hand-made cookies made with real duck and cherries or buffalo and blueberry. Your baby deserves this. TheHonestKitchen.com You know you wonder what life is like for your dog when you are not around. Uncle Milton’s Pet’s Eye View Camera give you a dog’s-eye view with this lightweight digital camera that attaches onto your dog’s collar. Set the self-timer to take a picture every 1, 5 or 15 minutes to take a sneak peek into his secret world. Comes with a USB cord to download photos directly into your computer. This is seriously so much fun. UncleMilton.com
“Spott’s Canine Miscellany” – written entirely for dogs and their doting owners and admirers, the result is an irresistible potpourri of canine facts, embracing the essential, the trivial, the intriguing, and the extraordinary. You will discover such whimsical treats as dog epigraphs, the origins of breed names, an international guide to the word “dog,” Aesop’s fabled dogs, dog-bite statistics and dogs who went down with the Titanic. Totally fun beach read. Amazon.com
Forget those horrible pills for dogs to eliminate the urine burn marks on your meticulously manicured lawn. Drop a Dog Rock – 100% natural, mined from a quarry in Australia – in your dogs water bowl every two months and it will filter out impurities from the water such as Tin, ammonia and nitrates. ”The basic ideas is the three inch diameter rock being paramagnetic changes the ion exchange in the water,” said Michael Jordan, owner. “This results in the nitrate level in the water dropping and not being ingested. What’s important to note is that the Dog Rock does not change the pH of the water.” The Dog Rock is the hottest pet item in Australia and the UK right now. BullyStickDirect.com
Serious dog nutrition with fun names like Grrnola, Bowwowbreakfast, Fido Flakes, Chompions and Chewabunga that includes l-carnitine to help convert fat to energy. One extra pound on a dog is like 10 on a person. Bowwowbucks.org
Magniflex, an Italian mattress company, offers your baby the ultimate in sleeping arrangments with a 22 karat gold fibers woven into the ultimate fabric covering. In addition to imparting a luxurious look and feel, the gold offers anti-bacterial and anti-static properties that resist dust mites and keep the mattress dry and cool. How fabulous a jump would this be for Truman to go from three years ago sleeping on the streets of Asbury Park to this bed (approx. $2,000 for a 50 pound dog)? When you learn about this mattress, you want one for your dog, one for yourself – forget Duxiana mattresses - and one for our sexy friend in the photo below (on the right). Magniflex.com
On the Fifth Avenue boardwalk, it was overcast the Sunday morning of May 17. Inside the Supper Club, it was brilliant and vibrant with emotion as Asbury Park residents John Grant and Danny Weiss exchanged vows of commitment, devotion and affection in front of 110 family and friends.
“The love from both our families was wonderful, incredible and genuine,” said Danny. “The guests were blown away by so many things, including the location, our families uniting and the ceremony itself.”
The Honorable Teresa Kondrup Coyle, a New Jersey State Judge, officiated the ceremony which morphed both Irish-Catholic and modern Jewish traditions seamlessly – everything outlined in a program with a dreamy cover photograph taken by John of a brilliant deep yellow, orange and gold sun rising over crashing grey-blue waves on the Fifth Avenue Beach.
“We entered to ‘Shir HaShirim’ (Song of Songs) and ‘An Irish Blessing’ was sung later in the ceremony,” said John. “It was important for us to incorporate both traditional Jewish music and an Irish blessing.”
Asbury Park’s Brett Colby sang both dynamic songs.
“All four of our parents participated in the modern version of the seven Jewish blessings,” said Danny, born in Neptune. “There was not a dry eye in the house.”
The theme for the wedding was “beach chic.” It looked like the wedding everyone wished they could go to – joyful and in a genuine environment.
“It was very important to us to have a socially-conscious, substantive celebration,” said John. “We respectfully requested no gifts. There were no flowers or a band.”
The underlying and unspoken theme of this fete is the fact that these two gentlemen are in love with our city, their family and friends and, naturally, each other. When you see something like that, it’s makes you smile.
Danny wore a blue-grey seersucker suit with orange scarf. John dressed in a putty colored jacket, grey pants and flip flops.
A lunch reception immediately followed the ceremony at the Supper Club, which included a chocolate-hazelnut cake driven from Houston to Asbury Park by a cherished friend of Danny’s family.
John, comptroller for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and Danny, a local immigration attorney appointed May 27 to the Board of Education, met October 2007 online while they were both living in New York City and spoke “for hours” via phone prior to a face-to-face meeting.
Their first date consisted of more conversation over the finest wine.
“I knew John was the one I was going to marry the minute I met him,” said Danny. “I have a very good read of people and I could tell right away he was genuinely kind, ethical and easygoing. I have been waiting my entire life for him.”
Danny knew first, however John was the one who proposed November 2008, in one of the most heartfelt and original manners I have heard.
“I made him a card of a collection of photos of events and times in our life together that were important to us,” said John. “I put the card in his bed and the card contained my proposal. I want to grow old with him.”
I just love, love. All the best wishes to them both.
Great gifts, Dads will love – and will love your Dad back.
MBT Sneakers
MBT sneakers are the easiest work out known to man…I mean Dad. Literally, walking to the beach, walking the dog, walking around the house – they are the first physiological footwear that have a positive effect on the whole body, activating a large number of stabilizing muscles throughout the whole body when walking or standing. Spring and summer styles feature a new lower sole. “Aren’t those sneakers fantastic?” Amy Cohen, a regular boardwalk-er said to me recently when she looked down at my sneakers. “Tell the people that make them I love them.” Yes, Amy, I will and they are. Shown in Safiri Navy, $215. TheWalkingCompany
Only The Brave by Diesel
In a bottle shaped like a clenched fist Only The Brave features top notes of Lemon Blossom, Mandarin and Coriander Leaves; a heart of Labdanum, Black Rose and Lavender; and a dry down of Amber Tolu Wood and Ebony Wood. Hot and modern and does not take over room, its, guaranteed to keep Dads who think Diesel is simply a type of fuel fierce and smelling great. Eau De Toilette, 2.5 oz. $65 Diesel Fragrances
Oakley Kick Stand Polo
“There is just enough fashion in this Oakley shirt,” my metrosexual friend said. This polo, in a variety of colors (Petro Green, Sheet Metal and Teal Blue) – in slim and regular fit – is classic fashion with an edge of smart detail that is perfect summer styling for every Dad. Khakis, jeans, short – he’s set. Shown in Red Line, $45 Oakley
Skin By Monica Olsen Travel Kit
Organic and natural, Dad will appreciate the simplicity and results from Monica Olsen’s skincare line. The travel kit is for Dads who are on the road and need the luxe no-brainer, convenience of an all in one package. TSA approved, includes: DRY Deodorant, MSM Shave and Cleaner, After Shave Spray (my fave), Day and Night moisturizer, Body Lotion and Shampoo and Conditioner. $34.95 MonicaOlsen
Found My Animal
Yes, you have been replaced by your Dad’s four legged friend. Found My Animal leashes fit everything your Dad wants in a lead. Each Found leash is made of cotton canvas dock line rope and marine-grade solid bronze clips on either end. The leash can be worn as a belt, across your chest or clipped without the concerns of a knot. Each leash is numbered and handmade in New England. Every leash I’ve seen is either too froofy or too industrial. The Found My Animal founders have created the perfect leash and collar. Also, 25% of profits go to a non-profit dedicated to finding homes for animals. Leashes and collars vary in sizes. FoundMyAnimal
Whether you are a dad to a child, adult or puppy (like me), cheers to every dad everywhere.
MORE GIFT IDEAS IN THIS WEEK’S COASTER NEWSPAPERS.
It bears repeating, every product recommended in TheBPlot / Coaster Newspapers have been tried and true tested in real, vain life. We value your trust in us and we value your feedback. Let us know what you think.
Whenever Michael Jackson’s sister, LaToya, would make an appearance on Howard Stern’s show, her husband at the time Jack Gordon, insisted her green room be “soft and comfortable for the morning” and filled with fragrant flowers and comfortable pillows.
Arriving at 6 am in full makeup when the interview was just for radio, she was a very sweet, almost fragile woman who I found to be totally caught up with a horrible man – now deceased – who thrived on creating conflict with LaToya and her family to isolate her and cash in on her family name.
LaToya would have loved the new and original line of Pattern on Pattern pillows from Shelter Home on Cookman Avenue.
“The first step in silk-screen printing of fabric yardage is to ‘open up’ the screen, making the first impression on a blank piece of fabric,” said Gene Mignola, co-owner of Shelter Home. “Eventually the fabric outlives its usefulness but in the process becomes a one-of-a-kind piece of art: Pattern on Pattern.”
Gene selects dynamic patterns on wonderful fabrics – made of cotton and linen – washes them and creates some of the most beautiful and original home accessories available.
“We have re-imagined these unique textile pieces as pillows which are sewn with love right here in New Jersey,” said Gene, who began creating the pillows a few months ago.
Gene – in addition to serving as co-owner of Shelter Home, has been a textile artisan for more than 35 years for theatre television and film. His clients include Walt Disney Theatrical, Calvin Klein and Donna Karen and work which can be seen in the Tony award-winning productions “The Lion King,” “Little Mermaid,” “Billy Elliot” and “Wicked”.
“I like the playfulness in the design of these pillows,” said Scott Hamm, co-owner and Gene’s partner. “With a few pillows you can change the mood in a room very inexpensively.”
The pillows, exclusive to Shelter Home, are completely “green” – made of 100% recycled products (the stuffing is recycled soda bottles) – feature a minimum of four different “patterns on patterns” and come in three sizes in a variety of luscious color themes such as blue and grey and rust and natural and dark red and deep green.
“Everything in Shelter Home, including the pillows just has an amazing style and energy,” stated Lois White of Ocean Grove. “It’s wonderful that many items are recycled and fair trade. The store gives flare with a heart and soul – substance and style.”
Beyond pillows the store feature original home accessories – from lamps to plates to glassware to rugs to handbags. Each item is unique and has a great modern style. This is one of a handful of stores that I would pretty much purchase the entire inventory, if I could.
“It’s awesome in here,” said a very young and adorable Brielle White, also of Ocean Grove.
Next Friday (June 19), in conjunction with ArtsCAP’s June Collide-a-Scope program, Gene will be giving a live demonstration of his work on digital printers at Shelter Home, beginning at 7 pm.
Briefly: As we become beach bound this summer, consider that America’s demand for bottled water requires more than 1.5 million barrels of oil annually – enough fuel for 100,000 cars for one year. Using a PUR water filtration system (named Consumer’s Choice Household Product of the Year) with a reusable thermos such as SIGG can replace 2,000 plastic bottles and save you more than $600 annually. PUR just introduced a flavor option pitcher so you dont even need to squeeze your own lemons. Purwater.com has more info.
The final in the Coaster’s exclusive three-part interview (Click here: Part 1, Part 2) with Bouvier Beale – grandson of Big Edie and Nephew of Little Edie of “Grey Gardens” – reveals how gay icon Little Edie remained inspired, prideful and dignified through various obstacles.
TBP: What should we all learn from your Aunt, Little Edie, and the little things she appreciated and enjoyed in life?
Bouvier: Edie loved the ocean…and swimming – a reason she would have loved Asbury Park, had she visited. She was full of passion and loved to dream. She was also crazy about writing. In her journal, she wrote her name and title as “celebrated poet, author and artist.”
She constantly wrote letters to friends and Presidents like Bill Clinton…she even wrote to Prince Charles. She approved of them both. Her letters were always amusing – one never knew what topic to expect.
TBP: Cellphones, iPods, environmental pollution – what would she think of the world today?
Bouvier: Edie would not use a cell phone. She rarely answered her phone and changed her phone number often since too many people were trying to contact her – she was very private. Whenever we spoke on the telephone, however, she was charming and always had something current and interesting to talk about.
She read “The New York Times” daily and kept up with what was going on in the world. She would be horrified at ocean pollution and global warming. Edie was always concerned about environmental issues.
TBP: Did she find happiness during the later years of her life?
Bouvier: She seemed to be a happy person. She may not have had all her dreams come true but she handled her life as best as she could. Sometimes I felt that Edie was living “out of this world” because she never held any real job – her first job was at Reno Sweeney singing. She lived a very privileged life and was not really prepared to live in today’s fast paced world.
TBP: Finally, Little Edie radiated a wonderful kindness and had a beautiful sense of elegance and strength – quite appropriate for this weekend here in Asbury Park.
Bouvier: Edie was an artist. She loved New York City because of all the artists and creative types living there. She would have loved Asbury Park and its diverse community. Edie had a very open mind and she always encouraged people to believe in themselves – as she did with her dancing and singing. Sometimes not everyone is going to like what one creates however Edie inspired many to do what they loved doing most, regardless of what others thought.
Both Edies were strong and their integrity and dignity was very important. They were survivors.
Perhaps that is the inspiration for today – as we face challenges, be strong and be who you are, for that is what counts in the end. Edie inspires us to be who we are and to be proud of it – all the time.
Revealing parts of the interview that did not make it into the newspaper…
TBP: Your relative, John Davis, says he witnessed Little Edie climbing a tree and then burning her hair off, after a failed romance. What is the real story about Little Edie’s hair?
Bouvier: We never heard the story about Edie’s hair burning. We understood her to have Alopecia.
TBP: How much did Jackie Kennedy Onassis really pay to save her family from eviction from Grey Gardens. I have heard a spectrum of amounts. And did she pay Little Edie’s living expenses until she died, as rumored?
Bouvier: Jackie paid $25,000 to restore the home “to code.” We never heard that she helped Little Edie with her bills. There is no evidence of that.
TBP: What do you think your Grandmother and Little Edie would make of the ultra-iconic fame status they have achieved?
Bouvier: I think they would have loved the Broadway musical and HBO Film. Fame was not a priority but they would have appreciated the tributes.
TBP: What is the most common question you are asked about “Grey Gardens” and Little Edie?
Bouvier: There are so many questions. Mostly, we are asked “What Little Edie was like?” and “Why did this all happen?” The fans often think that no one cared for Edie and her mother but that is far from the truth. Everyone in the family tried to help them but at one point they decided that they would not leave Grey Gardens under any circumstances.
This is one of the reasons my wife, Eva, published the book “Edith Bouvier Beale of Grey Gardens: A Life in Pictures” to dispel the rumors.
TBP: What’s next?
Bouvier: We have no specifics yet however the next phase will include a book of Little Edie’s diaries and journals. More to come at GreyGardensCollections.com. Little Edie was an avid scrapbook keeper. During her lifetime she filled dozens of bound books with poetry, photos, party invitations, drawings and private musings the next book will offer a peek into that part of Edie’s life.
There are still 100 copies left of the limited edition coffee table book of private photos available online.
TBP: Tell us about the Grey Gardens Collection?
Bouvier: The website has started small but with amazing items – all inspired by the lifestyle at Grey Gardens during the glory days. The logo for the collection is actually Edie’s handwriting. The jewelry featured is cast from the originals Big Edie and Little Edie wore at Grey Gardens.
Sources close to the Asbury Park City Council confirmed rumors today that current councilmember Ed Johnson will officially be named Mayor of Asbury Park on July 1, replacing current Mayor Kevin Sanders and becoming the first openly gay mayor of the City. Additionally, Councilman John Loffredo will be named Deputy Mayor.
Councilman Johnson was the highest vote getter in the recent election.
Cheers to Ed – I am a huge fan of his. He is smart, dedicated, passionate and kind. Most of all, he loves Asbury Park as much as we all do. Its a great move forward for the city we love and just in time for New Jersey Pride 2009.
One Asbury Park resident said it best today “Ed is a much better representation of our city on all sides – black, white, gay, straight. He will be a great role model for the kids, too.”
So Major Summer 2009 kick-off continues with Part Two (click here for Part One) of my exclusive interview with Bouvier Beale Jr., first grandson of iconic Grey Gardens’ Big Edie and nephew of Little Edie – two women who loved the beach and sea as much as any dedicated Asbury Park-er.
This week exclusive only found here, Bouvier discusses the “real” Little Edie and her life post-documentary release in 1976 and her mom’s death the following year.
TBP: There has been so much fiction written and said about your family. What’s true that we do not know about Little Edie?
Bouvier: Mostly, people don’t realize how talented and smart she was. Her poetry, writings and drawings are amazing and her photographs of herself and the family are so important in showing everyone what she was like in her younger days while things were still divine at Grey Gardens. Little Edie is a fashion icon and that was because of her style and creativity when it came to picking that “costume of the day.”
My wife’s limited edition book “Edith Bouvier Beale of Grey Gardens, A Life in Pictures” (GreyGardensCollections.com) features many of Edie’s self-portraits and private family photos. There are less than 100 copies of the book available now.
TBP: What is misunderstood about Little Edie?
Bouvier: Many feel that Edie was forced to go and take care of her mother and sacrificed her own life. This is not truly the story, as she had no means of supporting herself. Big Edie was always very generous with Little Edie and paid all her bills while she lived in New York City. When the money was gone, Big Edie insisted that Little Edie come home out of necessity. Little Edie had no choice.
TBP: I hear the love you and your wife, Eva, have for Little Edie. In 1980, she came to your wedding in Montauk.
Bouvier: She was always at family weddings and funerals. I was recently watching movies of my wedding and loved seeing Edie having a great time and dancing with my father. She was always, always the life of the party.
She gave us two wedding gifts. The first was incredibly special – she sang a special song for us at the wedding, “Toujours L’Amour” (I’ll Fly With You). She also gave us a piece of family silver with a “B” engraved on it. We still enjoy the memory of the song and the gift of silver.
(Courtesy Beale Estate)
TBP: What was the latter part of Little Edie’s life like?
Bouvier: Few know all the places she lived after Grey Gardens – New York, Montreal and Florida and for a short period of time in California. Edie’s mother told her not to go to California because of the earthquakes, but she came in the late 1990’s and loved it. She did not experience an earth quake however she always wanted to go back to Florida. I took her back to Florida in 1997 to find an apartment. She continued to be amazing. Aunt Edie knew exactly where she wanted to be – right near the beach. I visited her in Bal Harbor frequently and took her out to “luncheon” as she called it. She was always thrilled.
TBP: By the way, how did Grey Gardens get its name? I have heard so many different stories.
Bouvier: The home was always a seaside garden and its name came from the subdued colors in the originally lush, muted-tone garden. Part of the garden – to the home’s left – was surrounded by a small brick wall to ensure seawater never got to it.
Next week, Little Edie’s connection to President Bill Clinton.
(Courtesy Beale Estate)
For more exclusive insight about two of our favorite ladies visit GreyGardensOnline.com. The site features tons of revealing interviews with other Grey Gardens “players” such as the grocery delivery teen seen in the documentary, Robert Beyer and David Lewis, who briefly served as Little Edie’s accompanist at Reno Sweeney. These are interviews not found anywhere else. The site also features amazingly detailed facts about Grey Gardens and brilliant quotes from Little Edie, such as:
“Jackie was twelve years younger than I, and although I was never jealous of her, I never liked her. You know what Jackie wanted? She wanted the house. Yes darling, that’s the truth, and she did everything she could to get it. Then Jackie sent her sister Lee, who I’ve always been absolutely terrified of- I think she’s a big criminal. Lee and her boyfriend came around and started to tear the house down with axes. Don’t go near any of these people for God’s sake, they’re all insane!”
and
“Of course the house isn’t perfectly normal. The house has to be done over. You know how hard it is to get plumbers in the autumn.”
This column is dedicated to the memory of Scott Schechter.
Best of the best for gorgeous summer days and nights.
La Prairie Cellular Self Tan with SPF 15
Your face and body luxuriously taken care of – in one bottle. Formulated to retexturize and smooth skin with a one of a kind controlled release system that ensures you an even, gradual, instant gratification tan – simply. It smells fabulous, too. $115
and…
LaPrairie Celluar Nuturing Complex
Coupled with buckets of Voss water, this is like a big comfy hug to your skin after a day on the beach or on the Watermark deck. The two-in-one bottle contains the ultimate in anti-redness calming care in both a balm and serum. $255.
laprairie.com
Clinique
I’ve been using Clinique suncare for years and it always delivers with a clean and light line of ahead-of-the-curve sun protection. This year, products feature SolarSmart protection technology and antioxidants activated by the sun that prevent and heal skin damage. The face cream SPF 30 is in my car, murse and beach bag. $17.50
clinique.com
Olay Daily Facials Express
Ultra handy and easy when you are done with the beach but ready for the Beach Bar and dont have time to change. No water needed. $6
olay.com
Ole Henriksen All Purpose Aloe Vera Gel
Best quality, pure and perfect finish to a day on our beach – recently named one of the best on the east coast.
The premier of summer is a great opportunity to talk about my favorite documentary, “Grey Gardens” – first released in 1976 exposing the lives of aunt and first cousin of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, “Big Edie” and “Little Edie” respectively who lived in squalor and isolation for decades in the oceanside, formerly golden, 28-room mansion “Grey Gardens” in East Hampton.
It’s an iconic must see for your gay card and is beyond fascinating to any and everyone else.
An overlooked character in the documentary – which served as the basis for the 2006 Broadway musical and last month’s fantastic HBO Film – is the Atlantic Ocean. The ocean and beach play a strong and meaningful part in both ladies’ lives.
As we celebrate the sea, beach, summer and friends this Memorial Day Weekend, first grandson of Big Edie and cherished nephew of Little Edie, Mr. Bouvier Beale Jr., spoke with me in an exclusive and revealing interview. The Coaster and TheBPlot.com are the only outlets in the country in which you can read Bouvier’s comments about his family, right now.
Bouvier: Thank you. Talking with Jessica (Lange) and Drew (Barrymore) about my family’s life was wonderful.
TBP: Do you think the documentary and film captured the essence of your relatives well?
Bouvier: The documentary, of course, captures the personality of my grandmother but I feel it is one-sided and edited to create a certain image. HBO’s film is wonderful and captures my grandmother perfectly – presenting some of the story from the important years prior to the documentary. I hope now fans are seeing a different perspective of the “Edie’s”.
TBP: The coffee table book is just fantastic and I loved the HBO film. One of the questions the film created was regarding Big Edie’s friend and pianist George “Gould” Strong. Set the record straight, was he gay?
Bouvier: People assume he was gay. He was definitely Big Edie’s soul mate. Music and the desire for companionship drew them together. She felt her husband was always absent…working.
At one point, Little Edie’s diary actually expresses a bit of competition between her and Gould, for her mother’s attention. Later, when Gould was sick, Little Edie writes that she sent Gould a note and he replied back thanking her.
TBP: The film ends in 1977 with Little Edie performing in the New York City nightclub Reno Sweeney. What was the backstory there?
Bouvier: I have seen the contract that she had for that club. After modeling as a teen and young adult, it was one of her very first jobs (at 60 years of age) and she decided not to continue it quickly. My father and Jackie (Kennedy Onassis) did not really approve of those performances so everyone was pleased Edie’s show was short-lived. (End)
The amazing picture book is sold at GreyGardensCollections.com, along with a number of other beautiful products inspired by Little Edie and Grey Gardens, including reproductions of their famous jewelry, cast from the originals.
GREYGARDENSCOLLECTIONS.COM
Next week, Bouvier discusses Little Edie’s life after Grey Gardens and how the home got its moniker. In two weeks, secrets revealed about Little Edie and Bill Clinton and what she thought about Asbury Park.
There is drag and then there is draaaaggg. One of the rock stars of drag queen-dom is coming to town the Saturday evening of Gay Pride weekend (June 6) to entertain the troops – both rainbow emblazoned and otherwise.
Six-time Drag Queen of the Year winner, Hedda Lettuce, will perform her renowned movie night show, featuring the 1981 film “Mommie Dearest”, at Asbury Lanes.
Forget the sloppy, scary, part-time, socks-for-boobs gag drag you may be used to. Since 1994, Hedda has been turning it out for her public performing around the world and on television shows including “Project Runway,” “Sex and the City” and “Oprah.” I spoke with the blonde icon in anticipation of her visit.
TBP: How are drag queens surviving the recession?
Hedda: It’s all a matter of recycling, Darling, and doing your own handiwork. Taking a beautiful belt you’ve tired of and melting it into a broach.
TBP: You are the self proclaimed “Queen of Green.” I call our columnist, Tom, the King of Green, you two must meet. How can Asbury Park people be greener?
Hedda: A lot of people leave half a drink on the bar and walk away. Grab it and drink it. Don’t be shy. Alcohol kills germs. It’s a great way to recycle, conserve water and save money.
TBP: Both you and “Mommie Dearest” are fierce. What happens when two icons collide?
Hedda: My show is like “Mystery Science Theatre” combined with “Rocky Horror.” I act out in front of the movie screen, comment as the film progresses, backtalk to Faye Dunaway and interact with the audience. I absolutely encourage audience participation. The first and last 15 minutes is live comedy.
It’s a collage of comedy…a touch of drama with a dash of wit…pinch of pathos with a whole lot of laughter…a unique experience and a great evening. I promise everyone a great time that none of us will ever forget.
TBP: I hear the show is regularly a sell out in New York and Provincetown. Who knew you were so into movies. What are your summer favorites?
Hedda: Anything with Doris Day and Rock Hudson. “Bye Bye Birdie” with Ann Margaret and a nice Gidget movie will get a girl going during the summer.
TBP: Who is a bigger diva Tyra Banks, Madonna or Asbury Park’s own Brad Hurtado?
Hedda: This is a difficult one, Darling. Brad would like me to say him but I won’t. I would probably say Tyra.
TBP: Final thoughts for New Jersey Gay Pride 2009?
Hedda: Celebrate diversity. This is our chance to get out of the sandbox and show the world how we do it.
Some say gays are like everyone else but we are not, Darling. We are just a little bit more fabulous. We just are.
Also, keep hydrated and find you a man – at least for the summer -it brings a glow to a woman’s cheeks. Enjoy, celebrate and live. (end)
$20 tickets include two-hour open bar. Doors open at 8 pm. Tickets sold at the door or AsburyParkEvents.com. When everyone else is increasing prices Pride weekend, this is the best bargain in town. Brad Hutado, producer of the show, is supplying the wire hangers, too.
Briefly: The Famous Wanamassa Point Yard Sale, featuring 15 homes at publication deadline, is Saturday (May 15). Join the Egrets, turtles and wayward bargain hunters for treasures galore 9 am to 3 pm.
Beginning next week, a revealing “Grey Gardens” exclusive interview with Little Edie’s nephew Bouvier.
05.17.09 – One of the pillars of our Asbury Park community, Scott Schechter passed away suddenly on Thursday. I can’t speak more highly of gentle, kind, passionate, engaging Scott. He will be missed by many. Those who did not have the chance to meet him missed out. The 5.28.09 issue of The B Plot will be dedicated to this wonderful friend to many, partner to Russell and dad to Tigger. I welcome you to post your thoughts and memories about Scott here.
Happy Mother’s Day to every mom around. The strength, encouragement and tenacity of mothers help everything here move forward, even under the most trying of circumstances.
We love our moms and we love our city.
Below are 18 fun reasons to love Asbury Park, even more, right now.
1. You can take your summer visitors on a fab walking tour by just stepping out your front door. There is history, “real” architecture and beauty everywhere here.
2. Anyone can pretend they are Tiger Woods for a day at the Colonial Terrace Golf Course on Wickapecko Drive.
3. Retro, difficult-to-find, sweet treat cravings are within reach at Candyteria on the Boardwalk.
4. Resident David Napp can recite any scene from the “Golden Girls” for you on demand.
5. Drinking a great cup of Asbury Roastery coffee while watching the morning surfers on our beach is a fantastic way to start each day.
6. You can swim, hike, canoe, dance, run, fish, ride your bike, do yoga, golf, walk a trail and play Frisbee, kickball, basketball or tennis and more – for free – all within our TMZ (three-mile zone).
7. Something seriously great can be bought for less than $1 at Coastal Habitat for Humanity’s thrift store, ReStore, on Third Avenue.
8. Fab stores like Shelter Home enable us to give amazing, original, modern gifts without having to leave town.
9. Secretly gazing at the ocean and bodies on the boardwalk is easy at Watermark Lounge’s 1,500 square foot patio.
10. You can dance your butt off until 3 am at Paradise.
11. Learning or seeing something new is as simple as walking into the Asbury Park Library or Turner Gallery in Ocean Township.
12. The Asbury Park Historical Society works overtime for all of us to ensure the vintage charm that makes this City one-of-a-kind remains in tact.
13. Helen Chantal-Pike knows everything about Asbury Park’s history and is happy to share.
14. Bowling is a blast at Asbury Lanes.
15. There’s always something interesting going on at the Stephen Crane House.
16. The Tides Hotel gives us a guilt-free fabulous option to store trying guests.
17. Deal Lake is 158 acres of beautiful bird watching and fish and turtle scouting.
18. Having your baby’s hand or foot print immortalized in glass, for Mom or Grandma or anyone else this Mother’s Day is as easy as walking into Hot Sand.
Briefly: I need to thank the mothers of Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds. These two guys are gasp-worthy – so beautiful. I just can’t stop objectifying them. Imagine being so hot you don’t have to have a point to your conversation. Just ramble on and on and no one cares cause it’s so nice to look at you – everything you say is dynamic. That’s these guys.
HUGH JACKMAN, GETTY IMAGES
RYAN REYNOLDS
And Tori Spelling and her mom Candy’s new books – “Mommywood”, and “Candyland” respectively, are great, fluffy, fun, dishy, dirty summer reading. The photos are so telling its like getting two books in one.
I could only describe it as adorable when I learned the other day that the hot Russian model, with six-pack abs and just right everything else I was watching on MTV Spring Break was talking about something that could be “supersized” when he was describing his favorite American meal indulgence.
“They say it is a…umm…McRib…sandwich,” delicious model said, smiling and laughing. “I eat at McDonalds all the time. McRib has no bones.”
Hot Model Guy must have just gone on an audition for a McDonald’s commercial – his fierce beach body gave no hint of a regular diet of Mc-dining.
What’s your favorite food secret extravagance? I spoke with a few local culinary talents about what they crave when their own fare is not on the menu.
Michael Rathsmith and Bobby Johnson (25-year residents of Asbury Park) of Clementine’s in Avon:
“We will go to the Olive Garden, sit at the bar and eat breadsticks. I order the gorgonzola pasta with short ribs on top and take half home for lunch the next day. Bobby gets the stuffed chicken marsala. One other place we love is Five Guys Burgers and Fries on Route 66. We get burgers with jalapeño peppers, mayo, mustard and ketchup and regular fries. It’s so good.”
Michael also shared that he set up the restaurant’s outdoor tables last weekend featuring new Clementine-colored sun umbrellas.
“I love Thai food, especially Pad Thai. I am actually having that tonight at Teak in Red Bank. I also love spare ribs from anywhere but my ultimate comfort food is a fresh baked ham.”
Beginning May 15, Munch will be open for dinner on ArtsCAP’s Collide-A-Scope Fridays. May 15 is the first day of the Tri-City Arts Tour, too.
Jeffrey Haveson from Restaurant Plan B:
“Ice cream anywhere anytime. Does not matter what kind – Breyer’s, Dairy Queen – I just love ice cream. I’ll have a Klondike bar for lunch sometimes.”
“My favorite place to go is Vic’s in Bradley Beach – I worked their as a waitress when I was younger – and my favorite thing to order, with my husband Scott, is a white pie with broccoli, garlic and ricotta. Their garlic bread is the best and I always get the chopped antipasto salad with herb dressing.”
I’ll take all of the above, including the model.
Briefly: The Center’s 16th Annual Center a la Carte happens next Friday (May 8). It is summer’s unofficial coming out. Call for tickets.
Cheers to this year’s participating restaurants: Asbury Park Roastery, Belmonte’s, Bistro Ole, Branches Catering, Carmines, Culinary Education Center of Monmouth County, Ducky Life Tea, The Harrison, Il Pavone Gelateria, Jesse’s Café, Kessler’s Catering, Laila’s, Langosta Lounge, Lusty Lobster, The Mix Lounge and Food Bar, Moonstruck, Mumford’s Culinary Center, Munch, Perfect Perk, Plan B, Silk Catering, Starbucks, Synaxis at the Shore, Taka, Tasty Pantry by Elaine, Windmill.
Finally, this is the last weekend to attend ReVision Theatre’s “Kingdom”. Please go. My mom loved it. I loved it. You will love the songs, story and dynamic cast.
Asbury Park saw its best weather of the year, so far, last weekend – eighty-five degrees and sunny with a beautiful breeze. Spring fever was all over. I love the first days of guys in shorts after a long winter.
Saturday and Sunday were perfect days to take a walk on the boardwalk with your family – however “family” is defined for you.
I hope, however, you did not bring your dog to the boardwalk, as I saw a few misguided out-of-towners with money to spend, do.
On Sunday, as I was petting the dogs, an ever-so-gentlemanly police officer kindly explained to the couple that “no dogs are allowed on the boardwalk, ever.”
The surprised couple – again, wanting shop, eat, enjoy our boardwalk and regale their friends with great boardwalk stories about Asbury Park, got in their cars and left.
The issue of allowing pets on the boardwalk has gotten a lot of attention lately – it’s one of the hottest topics on the “Yahoo! List”, initiated a community meeting at Asbury Bark (see previous article at TheCoaster.net) and, as a result of the meeting, the city council has organized to develop a solution to the “dogs on the boardwalk” issue.
“Can you imagine Hudson River Park or the Santa Monica beach if everyone had to walk their bike or leave their dog at home?” said resident Dan Guevara. “We want to enjoy what we rightfully deserve and pay for with our taxes.”
I, and many others, agree with Dan. It seems that politicos in town are listening regarding this simple quality of life issue.
“We can come to a compromise for dog access to the boardwalk during peek hours, during peek season,” said Councilman Ed Johnson, owner of two cats and, to his credit, who I saw as the first outspoken politico on the subject. “I don’t see any reason why we can’t work together – dog owners, dog lovers, people who don’t have a preference to enable everyone to enjoy all the city has to offer.”
Since the meeting at Asbury Bark, many scenarios and suggestions have been proposed.
“I am in support of a pilot program of allowing dogs on the boardwalk possibly making it a revenue generator for the City by selling doggie badges,” said Councilwoman and owner of two dogs Sue Henderson.
The badge concept sounds like a lot of bureaucracy to me, however anything is better than what we have now.
“Even with leashed dogs there has got to be some kind of enforcement as far as controlling your animal and waste. I am not the only council member who has gotten calls to please not allow dogs on the boardwalk,” said Councilman John Loffredo who is also leaning towards some sort of compromise.
Last week, City Manager, Terry Reidy reached out to council and community members, including resident Scott Schechter, to participate in a committee – whose first meeting was on Tuesday evening – headed by Councilwoman Henderson. The results of the meeting were not known by deadline.
“This issue comes down to common sense for dog owners,” said Scott. “Naturally there are times when dogs should not be on the boardwalk – for their own safety.”
Dog lovers unite so this issue does not drag out or take up too much valuable time for our over-imposed upon politicians.
“There is a key way to help influence the resolution of this issue,” said Jim Modica, owner of Asbury Bark. “Voice your opinion to the council immediately.”
“This can and should be resolved by Memorial Day,” said Johnson.
Councilwoman Henderson and Amy Quinn, currently running for City Council – and a vocal supporter of this issue concurred.
Lets all hold them to that.
Councilman James Bruno declined to comment and the Mayor did not respond to two email inquiries.
Earth day is becoming Earth Month is becoming Earth Year.
Finally, we are seeing tons of modern “green” options for every part of your fabulous life – from fashion to grooming to items for every part of your home.
You know Jurlique is one of my favorites. This Earth Day, my Jurlique friends are going beyond beyond by encouraging you to recycle three Jurlique product containers at one of their area boutiques and be rewarded with a sample of one of their three bestsellers (until April 25).
After I recycled at Jurlique, I sought out two leading resources to provide insight into making it easier to be green, everyday.
I went to the Green Products Expo in New York City – where US companies premier the newest, latest and greatest “green” products, and I spoke with Asbury Park’s own Nancy Ehrlich, owner of Organic Style on Cookman Avenue, to learn about 21st Century responsible living.
TBP: What does “fair trade” mean and how does it impact the Earth?
Nancy: Every fair trade product has been made by a company that pays a living wage for workers to support their families in that country. Typically, workers get medical benefits and work seven to eight hour days. No children work in the factories.
Fair trade is the complete opposite of what we know as a “sweatshop.” When people purchase fair trade products they are helping families around the world create a better life for themselves and their community.
Organic Style exclusively sells products that practice fair labor – I turn away companies that don’t have supporting documentation.
TBP: What are some simple tips that everyone here can do to make a big impact on the environment and ultimately the world?
Nancy: Stop buying bottled water. Why even buy it to recycle it? There are so many canteen and reusable bottle options available now.
Another tip is to eat a meatless meal at least once a week. Factory farming is one of the worst things done to pollute our earth.
Finally, get in the habit of bringing your own reusable shopping bag wherever you go – from Cookman Avenue to the Mall. Those reusable bags are not just for the food store.
TBP: What about for men?
Nancy: Look for simple, neutral, solid colored bags. I sell a couple of different organic cotton options at Organic Style. My husband Bob uses one.
TBP: Great Nancy, bring on the shopping.
At the Green Products Expo I previewed some really cool products that you will love having in your life:
Kids Konserve: My favorite from the show was this line of waste-free lunch kits. Ultra cool looking, reusable food containers for kids for school or adults for the beach or office. I’ll be using the stainless steel stackable food carrying “bento box” – two containers in one – this summer. The company was launched by one of the first employees of Design Within Reach, so you know it blends style and function.
KIDSKONSERVE.COM
Ecover Car Wash and Wax: phosphate-free, fully degradable, low foaming, pH neutral cleanser (translation – it won’t suffocate the fish in our lakes and ocean or kill your grass among other things) uses the power of nature to clean and degrease any car or boat, for less than $5.
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Two weeks later, I still get goose bumps when I think about Bruce Springsteen saying to the audience “every time we get ready to go on tour, we come to Convention Hall to find out who we are now, as a band. We don’t really know who we are together until we play in this place.”
For two and a half hours Bruce and his team “found themselves” and gave it their everything at Tuesday’s show. (Additional exclusive video and images below).
I walked in to Convention Hall that night not a Bruce fanatic. Out of the twenty or so songs he sang, I probably recognized four of them. It turns out Bruce is one of those performers that you don’t need to know his entire oeuvre to appreciate him, actually I mean love him.
I seriously do have a love for him now. I walked out of Convention Hall a believer that night. I pray at the altar of Bruce Springsteen.
Throughout the show, he did not stop moving – and the audience, including myself, could not stop dancing. Normally stoic straight guys rocked their heads and mouthed the worlds to songs including “Badlands” and “Hard Times”.
It was an amazing Asbury Park moment – seeing the unofficial mayor of Asbury Park perform his brilliant new show in that architecturally brilliant and grandly intimate space…in our own backyard.
It’s a moment I have been looking forward to for years and am so thankful to finally have had the opportunity, thanks to Asbury Park resident Carolyn Curtain.
I told my friends at the Howard Stern Show all about the concert when I saw them last Thursday to tape part of a new special series about the “Best of the ‘90s.”
I joked with Executive Producer, Gary Dell’Abate that the old studios and offices at KROCK were like dumpster diving compared to what the show has now at satellite radio. I just wish the stock price reflected how fancy-pants the studios are. Ug.
A new producer from Sirius XM interviewed me for almost two hours about everything involved in my years at the show – from meeting tons of celebs (including Alec Baldwin, Pamela Anderson) to infamous guests (Mary Jo and Joey Butafucco) to memorable moments (Fred’s bachelor party and Howard’s birthdays) to life behind the scenes (arguments, book launches).
I revealed a few insane experiences I have never talked about since my time working for the show. Even Howard will be surprised when he listens to the special. Ah memories.
It was pretty darn special to see one of Howard and Bruce’s friends – Donald Trump – feature two fab Asbury Parkers on his show last week.
President of the Chamber of Commerce, Dan DiBenedetto, and Designer, Anthony Perotta celebrated their birthdays as guests on “Celebrity Apprentice’s” hotel management task.
“A friend of a friend works for the production company and invited us to be part of the show,” said Dan.
Six-foot eight-inch Dennis Rodman loved Dan and Anthony so much that he ditched his team for hours to join them for dinner at the fancy-pants Tao restaurant.
“He ordered everything from the bar and menu and then went back to the hotel right before the bill came,” said Dan, laughing.
Hottie Anthony, what’s it like to be called “honey” by Dennis Rodman while he is holding your hand?
The 7th Annual Garden State Film Festival is…rolling and it’s always great to see the hugely creative people – and their fans – running around our city brushing stray pieces of popcorn off their chest and laps.
One of the many under-praised heroes of film and theatre are the people that design and build the spectacular sets and props for your viewing pleasure.
Asbury Park resident Quinn Stone has been building film and theatre sets for almost 20 years in Chicago, New York City and Los Angeles and recently founded her own scene shop – StoneDog Studios in Neptune.
“My job is part artist, construction coordinator, sculptor, painter, costumer, electrician and architect,” said Quinn. “The set is another character in a production. I make sure that character plays its role excellently.”
Quinn also serves as the technical director for the New Jersey Repertory Company in Long Branch. Currently, she is installing the set for the upcoming premier of “Housewives of Mannheim.”
Quinn has recently built props or sets for the Two River Theatre Company, Tinton Falls Middle School, Merline Films, The Ellen DeGeneres Show and The Showroom – the first independent cinema to open in downtown Asbury Park in the past 30 years.
“I usually take the set designer’s draftings and build the actual space,” said Quinn, a graduate of the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. “My team and I figure out what needs to be done, considering the budget and time and make it happen.”
Team Quinn builds and paints the projects in her studio and then moves the pieces to the performance venue – putting the finishing touches on the work at the theatre or on location. It takes three or four weeks to construct and install the average stage set.
“If a theatre company called today and said they needed a five-foot tall television remote next week, I would say ‘What type of TV is the remote for?’” said Quinn. “We can and will make anything. And we work with any type of budget.”
I learned from my time at the Maury Povich Show that set building is its own art, morphing function with fiction (“Quick, I need a loveseat shaped like hot red lips, in velvet…that glows.”)
It’s about “smoke and mirrors,” making something look real, dynamic and believable – temporarily. I have heard nothing but praise for Quinn from the “theatre folks” around town.
For The Showroom on Cookman Avenue, Quinn was charged with creating a lobby with a “deco” feel that needed to double as office space. Her dynamic work debuts – along with the exciting new theatre – this weekend.
“Quinn is a craftsman and has produced for our theatre a functional and exquisite piece of art,” said Asbury Park resident Nancy Sabino, partner in The Showroom with her partner Michael Sodano. “She was so easy to work with and it was our good fortune to support a local, women-owned business.”
Pass the popcorn.
Briefly: Speaking of The Showroom, Nancy told me exclusively that the formal launch of the theatre will be the weekend of April 10, featuring the 2009 Oscar-nominated animated and live-action shorts. The film choices will always be “high-quality films that you may have missed or would like to see a second or third time.”
And she and Michael want to hear from you.
“We want to encourage people to suggest films to feature. We would love to have a theatre curated by its audience.”
As we embrace the first days of spring, I wanted to reveal the biggest secret that will be on the beach this summer.
A ton of those smoking-hot bodies soon to adorn the best beach on the New Jersey shore and Paradise pool are turning now to mesotherapy – a natural body contouring treatment – to achieve that ultra masculine and feminine silhouette we love to love so much in July.
“Mesotherapy is a technique where medication is injected into the mesoderm layer of fat in specific desired areas,” said Dr. Neil Rosen of Preventive Medicine of Monmouth. “The medication used is completely safe and naturally found in the body; we just use it in a very concentrated form.”
It’s vanity’s secret weapon.
Based on individual requirements, the doctor selects a mesotherapy formula that, when injected into the “problem” area slowly diffuses into the fat and breaks it down.
The number of treatments required varies depending on body type and personal aesthetic goals. For the average person, the results last for about 12 months when combined with exercise and a decent diet. Then, a patient goes for easy maintenance “touch ups.”
Mesotherapy was invented in 1952 by Dr. Michel Pistor. Today, 50,000 physicians worldwide offer mesotherapy treatments for a variety of medical issues. About 2,000 of the doctors are in the U.S.
The French Academy of Medicine recognized mesotherapy as an “inherent part of traditional medicine” in 1987. The FDA is conducting its first mesotherapy body contouring clinical trials, according to a recent statement by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
I know of almost 20 area men and women who have chosen mesotherapy – also called Lypolysis and Lipodissolve – instead of scary liposuction. Dr. Rosen has “hundreds of patients” in the greater Asbury Park and shore area.
“I would never let anyone cut me open unless there was no other option for my health,” said one Asbury Park male meso lover. “Liposuction should be a last resort. Mesotherapy is the perfect alternative for me.”
The treatment works best on people who have fat pockets to be eliminated around the stomach, flanks, arms, thighs, eyes, back and chin. It has been reported that Britney Spears, Demi Moore, Jennifer Aniston, Matt Damon and many other bold-faced names rely on mesotherapy treatments.
“Mesotherapy does not traumatize the body like surgery does,” said Dr. Rosen. “There is no scar tissue, residual effects or down time post-treatment.”
If figuring out what cosmetic procedures people have had was an Olympic sport, I would be on the cover of a Wheaties Box. Mesotherapy great because it is so subtle even a trained eye has difficulty telling that a person has undergone treatments.
And that makes for a great summer secret.
Call Diane at Dr. Rosen’s office for more info: 732.219.0894.
Other hot vanity products your neighbors are not telling you about:
Anything by Olay – especially the Rejuvenating Serum (cheapest at Costco) and the Pro Vital line.
Neutrogena sun protection and sunless tanning products.
Alford and Hoff men’s ultra-luxury skin care products. Everyone from Joe Theisman to Elton John depends on this line to look younger and camera-ready.
Last week, I visited an open house at a new ocean front development in Sea Bright. The house was high-end builder’s grade McMansion – high on glitz, low on character. The view, however, was extraordinary – and at $3.3 million, with almost $45,000 taxes, it should have been.
As the spring real estate market kicks off, I took a peek at the million dollar views of three properties in our area – same ocean crashing against the fab shore – minus the million dollar price tag.
$649,000, two bedrooms two baths: Ocean views really “wow” from every room in this north / south / east exposure Ocean Grove penthouse condo, with a 300 square foot terrace. The current owner’s furniture is the “gift with purchase.”
$499,000, two bedrooms, one and a half baths: This brand-spanking-new south-facing condo’s view is a duet of classic summer views – both of Fletcher Lake and the Atlantic. Built solid by the highly respected Sawbucks Construction, I especially love the pocket doors and that fab sea air floating in from the two doors leading to the archetypal Ocean Grove front porch. It’s also located where parking is rarely a horrific summer buzz-kill.
$629,000, 2 bedrooms 2 bath: It’s all about the luxe, original differentiators in this 1,700 square foot condo – centralized media system (panel on the wall controls everything from your iPod to your DVR), radiant heat, decadently huge shower stalls and indoor in-building parking.
Designed by the Asbury Park-based architecture firm Grey Watt, The Griffin has a cohesive – and non-gaudy – style theme throughout. It’s a property downtown that’s architecturally interesting and elegantly functional.
Images and property specifics supplied by realtors.
Ocean Grove, the most dog-friendly town in the area – Asbury Park City Council can you hear me – has welcomed its newest four-legged resident and you can watch the official “big reveal” go down on television Saturday (March 14), at 8 pm.
From thousands of applicants, Animal Planet’s “Underdog to Wonderdog,” on basic cable, played canine matchmaker for longtime Ocean Grove resident Kelli Chaffers helping her adopt Nellie – a beautiful, mature collie-mix.
“It’s been an incredible experience taping the show for the past few weeks,” said Kelli also parent to a son Kelsey and two cats, Miss Diva and Handsome. “I told the producers I wanted a dog that lounges, not runs and Nellie is the exact speed I want.”
I spoke with the show’s hottie-host Ryan Smith about the production.
TBP: Why did you choose Kelli for your show?
Ryan: A couple of reasons. First of all, Kelli has a vivacious and exciting personality. We love working with people and families that have a zest for life, and that’s Kelli in a nutshell. In addition, Kelli’s son is leaving home for the first time. While a beautiful dog cannot replace Kelsey, it can help ease Kelli’s family life adjustment.
Part of our job is to take relatively unadoptable dogs and match them with owners that can help them; the dog in this episode is shy, reserved and shut down as a result of its past, and it needs an amazing person like Kelli to make it’s life wonderful.
TBP: Kelli was made for TV. Part of your show is also doing a makeover on the dog and small home improvements. What did your team do to Kelli’s home?
Ryan: I can tell you this: our canine carpenter David’s objective is to build something that brings a somewhat shy dog out of her shell and put her in an environment where she can learn to become just as gregarious as Kelli.
TBP: Anything about the show that was challenging or different?
Hey, I have to save something for when you watch the show. I can reveal that the personality issues with this dog were unlike any issues that we have encountered before.
This is a great episode for people considering adopting a shelter dog without great knowledge of that dog’s past. Viewers will learn a lot about how to uncover a dog’s history in order to make it the best possible companion for its owner.
Our dog for this episode is one of the most beautiful dogs I have ever been around, and she goes on an amazing journey throughout the show. I really can’t wait for you to see it.
TBP: What did you think about our Historic Ocean Grove?
Ryan: Our team was blown away when we visited Ocean Grove – in awe of the striking architecture. We all fell in love with the serene beach community and its residents. We couldn’t have picked a more perfect place to shoot our show.
TBP: Your show takes a super-important issue – rescuing and nurturing mature dogs – and makes it engaging, fun and inspiring. Thanks Ryan.
Briefly: Save the date for “Gaylarious” a comedy show presented by Jill Potter and Aaron Coleman’s production companies, Saturday, April 4 at the WonderBar.
“Hosted by Christie Girlington, the show is a team of four cutting-edge gay and lesbian next-generation queer comics,” said Jill.
The horserace for creative business names around our city continues. I present to you the backstory for six more monikers below.
Bodega Shoppe
“I’ve lived in New York City for more than twenty years and the corner bodega is where I go for everything,” said Mike Buess, owner, of one of my favorite stores in town. “Corner markets sell a little bit of everything – similar to what I do at Bodega Shoppe which is a lifestyle store selling home furnishings, gifts and personal accessories. I added ‘shoppe’ to differentiate my store from a real bodega.”
Corazza
“It’s my maiden name,” said Kathleen Banks, owner of the fab mid-century modern home furnishing store on the Boardwalk. “It also means shield or armor. I have been wearing it proudly – and it has helped me a lot – for my entire life.”
WindMill Restaurant
“The original name for the restaurant was ‘WindMill Drive-In,’ said Rena Levine-Levy, chief operating officer of this chain that sells 12,000 fantastic hotdogs each week. “In 1964, my parents and their partners were looking for a location to open a drive-in. They found the building shaped like a wind mill – in the middle of what was a pretty empty landscape back then – and named the business after the distinctive shape of the building. Many don’t know the building came before the restaurant.”
Aww Mama Productions
“Whenever my dog Kayla did something cute my friends and I would say ‘aww mama,’” said Jill Potter, founder. “The phrase ‘aww mama’ has just become familiar lingo for me, so I incorporated it into my new business.”
Pyramid Productions
“I have always been intrigued by the mystery of the pyramids,” said Aaron Coleman, founder. “The creation of an event, to me, is like the building of a pyramid. And the actual logo is the same as my tattoo.”
Stone Pony (per its website)
In 1974, friends John “Jack” Roig and Robert “Butch” Pielka opened the doors of the Stone Pony. Jack purchased the abandoned building formerly a restaurant and leveraged the managerial and construction skills of Butch. During the building’s renovation, the club’s name simply came to Butch in a dream. The rest would be Asbury Park history.
Previous columns at TheCoaster.net reveal the genesis of other local great business’ names, such as Synaxis, Clementine’s and Munch.
Briefly: There is a grand new addition to Ocean Grove – and I am not talking about the monster building under construction on Ocean Pathway that is changing the historic skyline forever.
Thanks to Animal Planet’s “Underdog to Wonderdog” – the show that pairs stray dogs with loving homes – resident Kelli Chaffers has adopted a wonderful adult collie mix, Nellie, from a shelter. Production, which included improvements to Kelli’s home and a makeover and training for Nellie, took place during the past two weeks in the City.
Further details about the taping from the production team are more hush-hush than the Frost-Nixon interview.
Except, I know Nellie was feted Thursday in fab Asbury Park fashion at Robert DeSanto’s beautiful home with many friends and cocktails.
The show featuring Kelli and Nellie – and hottie host Ryan Smith – will air Sat. March 14, 8 pm.
Calling all Cinemafiles – all is not lost now that Oscar season is history.
Thanks to the Asbury Park Film Initiative your viewing displeasure does not have to include “Confessions of a Shopaholic” and “Paul Blart: Mall Cop II.”
Film lovers can unite compliments of Ocean Grove resident V.J. Carbone and Langosta Lounge’s Marilyn Schlossbach – co-founders of the Asbury Park Film Initiative – for fab flicks screened at an equally fab location.
“We created APFI to bring great independent films to the city,” said V.J.“Marilyn and I would like the Film Initiative to be similar to the Angelica Film Forum, in New York.”
This program is for the community by the community – which you know I love – rising from one night last summer.
“In June we screened a documentary about surfing and more than three hundred people came,” said Marilyn.“Afterwards, V.J., my husband Scott and I talked about the opportunity to bring great films to the area all year round.”
The three brainstorm each month’s film selections.Wonderful V.J. – fancy pants vice president of publicity for Focus Features (“Brokeback Mountain,” “Atonement,” “Milk”) secures the licensing.
One blustery December Sunday, I went to the screening of “White Christmas.”I also saw the compelling documentary “Man on a Wire and attended the packed-house New Jersey premier of “Milk” at Clearview’s Middlebrook Cinema, with an after party at Marilyn’s restaurant.
Showings are on the Paramount Theatre’s 60 by 40 foot screen.It’s a great space to take a mental vacation and watch a movie – for free.The grandeur of a live theatre space for the simplicity of these fine film selections is fan-tabulous.The only thing missing is decadent movie theatre popcorn.
Mondays, you are cordially invited for dinner and a movie.Price fix dinners are offered at Langosta Lounge, The Harrison, Stella Marina and Salt Water Grill.
Coming soon, film screenings on the beach on a huge inflatable screen and more exclusive New Jersey film previews.
Every month, our city has more and more wonderful things to offer – all thanks to the passion of the people.
Briefly:For me – like a lot of us – walking into a car service center is as unfamiliar and scary as walking into a shooting range.In this economy, I wanted to share with you how I – with a tip toe out of my comfort zone – avoided wasting hundreds of dollars.
Last week, I called the dealer to replace the low-beam that was out on my Acura.The service rep told me the cost would be $280 and if there was something else wrong, it may cost an additional $1,000.I was beyond upset.
A kind stranger suggested I buy the light bulb on Ebay and install it myself leveraging instructions from the internet (TSXClub.com) – not from the excessively complicated car manual.
The lightbulb cost $40 and took 15 minutes to replace – saving me the six-hundred percent dealer markup.
I also recently got my tires replaced for more than $400 less at Costco than Acura.
Bottom line: it takes a kick in the butt, but I learned that I can do this stuff and not be dependent on others for simple projects.If I can do it, anyone can.
I never quote Homer Simpson, however here I go:“They have the internet on computers now!”
It never gets old.
The next time you are on the internet, on your computer, check out some of the great Yahoo Groups – online communities custom-made for our community, by our community.
Members communicate to the group via blast emails.Databases and other resources are available on the group’s homepage.
Some have said that politicians must speak to constituents via a few of these lists to win an election.
As with any collective, there is whining and moaning about nonsense (delete, delete) balanced out by the extraordinary positive community cyber-energy.The passion is what really makes these groups great.
I spoke with the moderators of a few local groups.Read on, then log on and see what fits with your interests – guaranteed at least one will.
“Asbury Park GLH,” (founded 2002)
TBP:What is the “The List” all about?
Moderator:It caters specifically to the GLBTI residents of Asbury Park, so naturally it can only be described as “fabulous.”
The “List,” as it’s known around town, is a communication tool – created by Dane Hall – with 468 members, that caters to a community of similar interests.It was launched to provide the GLBTI community with an effective way to connect with each other, recommend contractors and other vendors and express opinions.
“Asbury Park,” (1999)
TBP:This is the longest standing Yahoo Group for the City.
Moderator:“Asbury Park” was started by a then-Philadelphia area college student (Andrew Wertz) who was interested in the city’s revival.The 470 member group is a forum for anyone who is interested in Asbury Park.
Among the many issues discussed are the ongoing challenges of the city’s school district, the Asbury Park real estate market and the effects of the upcoming local elections on the City.
“Colonial Terrace,” (2006)
TBP:Your Ocean Township-focused group is the only one with specific ties to a neighborhood association.
Moderator:It’s an extension of the Colonial Terrace Protective Association.The group is used as a vehicle to keep in touch and let neighbors know what is going on – from City Hall issues specific to Colonial Terrace to crime reports.
We also coordinate neighborhood events like a bicycle parade, “Fall Fest” and holiday caroling.
“Wanamassa GLBTI,” (2006)
(Disclosure:I founded this group and serve as the moderator).Our group is a forum for Wanamassa-based GLBTI neighbors to become more connected.
It has a few active members, however starts to buzz when a project to rally around arises such as saving Deal Lake or Ocean Township High School’s momentary ignorance cancelling “The Laramie Project”…or when a party is on deck.
For more than one century innovative businesspeople have flocked to our City – like drag queens to a wig sale – to make their dream of owning a business a reality.
The former McCrory Stores building, on Cookman Avenue, is home to Ken Le’s dream and true love this Valentine’s Day – Munch, a casual neighborhood eatery, which is preparing to celebrate its first anniversary in April.
Prior to launching Munch, Ken was one of the many, many people in the area that dreamed of quitting an ultra-fast, turbo-pressured, mega-lucrative, New York City corporate job, to pursue his passion in Asbury Park. His former career was in the advertising industry.
“For years I wanted to make changes in my job and life and to open a restaurant that was creative, friendly, fun and exciting, however the time in my life was never right,” stated Ken Le, founder, Munch.
Finally, the time was right.
“It took me three years of planning before I actually quit my job, gave up my upper west side apartment and moved back to New Jersey,” stated Ken. “All the stars began to align and I realized I had to make this career move, for me. It was scary but it was time.”
July 2006 Ken began the final steps to realizing his dream – a new chapter in the Book of Ken.
“I will never forget the last day at my office that summer,” continued Ken. “It was an awesome feeling. I celebrated with my colleagues and clients and could not wait to start the new ‘Munch’ part of my journey of life. Everyone congratulated me, knowing I was following my dream. Waking up the next morning, knowing I was going to focus solely on my passion, was huge for me. It drove me to work even harder and faster. I have never looked back – I recommend making a career change to anyone considering following his dream.”
Ken says the pressures he experiences owning a business are the same, but better than when he was part of the corporate machine.
“I am still tired and stressed, but it’s different because I look at the pressure as part of following my passion versus a rough daily grind,” Ken continued. “I look forward to coming to work every day.”
He designed the Munch menu, filled with everything from comfort food to vegetarian dishes, to “take a contemporary approach to the great meals of our childhood.”
I love Ken’s proprietary three cheese macaroni and cheese. He has mastered the difficult art of making the onion rings crispy inside and out. No mushy onions here. Valerie Bertinelli would run over Jenny Craig for a basket.
So, how did Ken choose the name “Munch” for his restaurant?
“The name needed to reflect what I wanted in my restaurant – something vibrant, fun, comfortable and memorable,” stated Ken. “I decided on Munch because I thought it encompassed my vision and it was one syllable strong. One word – just like Cher.”
In addition to his daily breakfast and lunch eatery hours, Munch is open for dinner – and packed BTW – each First Night in town, featuring a special menu.
Log on to Munch’s brand new website MunchAsbury.com, for restaurant hours, the complete menu, specials, reviews, local delivery information and more.
What’s your dream? Asbury Park can help make it happen, as it did for Ken.
Speaking of great food, the Culinary Education Center of Monmouth County’s restaurant Windows has opened for the spring season, Monday through Thursday, seating from 5:15 p.m. to 6.15 p.m. Call 732.988.3299. Also, the outstanding bakery is open daily 9 am to 10 am, 11:15 am to 1:15 pm and 5:15 pm to 6 pm. 101 Drury Lane, Asbury Park. Everything the students make, with Barbara and Darin, is amazing.
Wishing you a wonderful, heart-filled, red-infused, chocolate-packed Single’s Awareness Day. Happy Valentine’s Day!!
Despite what you may have heard, Paradise and Georgie’s are not the only places to look for love around here. Try the Monmouth County SPCA and adopt a dog or cat.
Puppy love expert and editor of more than 100 books about cats and dogs, Andrew DePrisco, discusses this very special type of matchmaking in his book, “Woof! A Gay Man’s Guide to Dogs” (see last week’s column at TheCoaster.net).
“Most of us spend more time with our dogs than we do with our partners,” said Andrew, an Interlaken resident. “Dogs are the ultimate long-term commitment and choosing the right one deserves more attention than the shirt you’ll buy for spring.”
In honor of Valentine’s Day, I asked Andrew to comment on a few gay divas and icons, and their dogs – as he does in his book.
“Celebs love being in the book,” said Andrew. “Who wouldn’t love being placed between Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt?”
Elton John:
“Elton has more than twenty dogs – a compound of rescue dogs. It seems she wants everything she sees, including dogs.”
Clay Aiken:
“He has a border terrier. That’s a rough dog. This silly little twink likes to be handled rough.”
Lance Bass:
“Lance is partnered with two twin Australian Beagle crosses. I think its fun that he is sleeping with twins every night.”
Orlando Bloom:
“He’s a honey. I love Orlando. He has a rescue dog mix and that’s sexy.”
George Takai:
“George and his husband have a Papillion – a small French breed with big ears that resemble a butterfly’s wings. Very smart dogs – just like George. Perfect match.”
Justin Timberlake:
“As such an ultimate straight guy, why does Justin have such a gay dog – a Yorkie? But sometimes a dog finds you rather than you finding the dog.”
President Barack Obama:
“He is such an intellectual and thoughtful guy…and athletic. My choice of dog for him would be a Boxer. Boxers, especially male Boxers, bond very closely with their owners. Given that one of his daughters is allergic to dogs, the family needs a non-shedding dog. My favorite non-shedding dog is a Spanish Water dog. They are frighteningly smart – bred to dive underwater to find gear. The breed has a very beautiful coat similar to a sheep.”
The last paragraph in Andrew’s book sums up life in this great city with our dogs perfectly.
“Once you’ve found the perfect canine companion, the whole gay world is your oyster. Sunning at the shore, sipping at the rim of an overpriced cocktail and watching the surfers come in, you and your partner can woof all day at the indescribable joys of low tide.”
Cheers to you and love this Valentine’s Day…and low tide.
Briefly: Something you may not know about me is that I love anything and everything Andy Warhol. If you share my interest, Graphic artist Billy Mecca of Elberon just sent me a great link to raw footage of Andy signing his book “America” at the Fiorucci boutique in NYC on Valentine’s Day, 1986.
February – the “month of love.” There’s not much we love absolutely more around here than our pets.
Andrew DePrisco, local writer and dog-lover, put pen to paper about his passion for puppies and received the Benjamin Franklin Award from the Independent Book Publishers Association for “Best Gay and Lesbian Book.”
Andrew’s “Woof! A Gay Man’s Guide to Dogs” (BowTie Press) is a creative, funny, interesting, energetic and really, really beautiful book about the unique bond a gay man has with his dog.
“I wanted to write a book that conveyed important information about the pets we love, in an entertaining way,” said Andrew. “Woof! is edutainment for all lovers of dogs, especially those who care about the quality of the dogs they select and the authenticity of the crystals in those same dogs’ collars.”
The irreverent tome offers prospective and current canine owners facts about selecting, naming, raising, training (both family and dog) and loving the “gay-perfect pup.”
Andrew tweaked the standard tests used by dog breeders to evaluate a puppy’s personality for members of the QKC – the Queer Kennel Club – with questions like “Are most of your shirts collarless or sleeveless?” and “Have you ever been naked in a barn?”
Just as there is a top for every pot, there is a dog for every guy.
“If gay men were as simple as young, untrained puppies, life would be so much easier,” said Andrew.
After revealing his QKC grouping, the reader learns various breeds associated with each group. Andrew – the author of 10 dog and cat books and editor of more than 100 – found there are 28 “breeds” of gay men, including All American Boy, Fashionista, Guppy, Pump Boy, Size Queen, Gaysian and Southern Belle, to name a few.
“From drag queens to butch cowboys, no one is safe in the book,” said Andrew. “Leather guys are softies that like to dress up – and there are better dogs than others to match that personality.”
Andrew spent a year researching and writing Woof!.
“I interviewed twenty-five of the best breeders in North America,” said Andrew. “If you follow my recommendations for choosing a breed, getting it from the right source, socializing and training it, you will not be unhappy with the pet you choose.”
For those of us who prefer saving a dog, rather than buying one, Andrew, FYI, is not all about breeders – in any way, shape or form.
“There is something sexy about someone who goes to a rescue and saves a dog,” said Andrew. “Rescue groups for purebreds do an amazing job of saving puppies from horrible breeders and stores.”
And despite its title, the book is not just for gay men – Joan Rivers is one of Andrew’s biggest fans.
“This book is my dog bible, and DePrisco is my new heroine,” said Joan.
That’s love.
Next week, in honor of Valentine’s Day, Andrew talks doggie dirt on Justin Timberlake, Elton John and other gay divas and icons.
Briefly: Speaking of Joan, her new book about plastic surgery, “Men are Stupid and they Like Big Boobs” is fab. My favorite quote regarding spending money on beautification in today’s environment: “It’s better to see a pretty face getting out of an ugly car, than an ugly face out of a pretty car.”
There are so many reasons to look up and smile in Asbury Park – from the compelling architecture to the sweeping “cloud art” designed by Mother Nature hanging above the ocean every day.
I also love walking around and seeing the fantastic watercolor images by Asbury Park resident Ray Sternesky on the lamppost banners around town.
Last week, I had the pleasure of spending time with Asbury Park resident Sonja O’Brien and speaking with her about the lamppost banner program she originally spearheaded in 2006 for our city, which is about to enter it’s second phase.
Sonja is so inspiring. Seriously inspiring. She can do anything with the precious spare time she has in between commuting to and from the city for work, renovating a house and loving two adorable cats yet she chooses to dedicate some of her extra time to giving back to Asbury Park.
“Everyone has different skills they can and do bring to the table to help the city,” said Sonja. “The talent pool found in our residents is so great it encouraged me. Professionally, I coordinated the production of the banners for the Goodwill Games, so this banner program is an extension of what I know – it was a natural fit to do my part for a city I love so much.”
Sunday, the artwork for the second series of banners – themed “Imagine Asbury Park” – was unveiled at a beautiful, fancy-pants Watermark Lounge party. (SEE ARTICLE PAGE XX)
“I am so excited about Phase Two of the banner program because it showcases a myriad of artists representing all facets of our community,” said Sonja. “And because it is raising funds for vital non-profit organizations.”
Sonja developed the business plan for the program and secured 13 sponsors. For a fee of $600 this is a no-brainer, cost effective, high-impact branding opportunity, with an extra-long shelf-life for local businesses.
The two installments of the initiative have raised $15,300 – with one-hundred percent of the proceeds of the first going to the Asbury Park Historical Society and the second split evenly between the Historical Society and ArtsCAP.
“Her insights and energy are ingenious and invaluable,” said Johna Karpinski, president of the Historical Society. “I can’t say enough about how wonderful she is.”
Sonja’s work has impacted many.
“Her work has been huge for ArtsCAP,” said Brett Colby, board president, ArtsCAP. “Sonja has provided us with the single-largest donation we have received to-date.”
She will also coordinate the production of the banners and installation with Asbury Park’s Director of Commerce, Tom Gilmour.
“I could not have done any of this without the support of Tom,” said Sonja.
After looking up at our city, let’s follow Sonja’s lead and look around for new ways to contribute positive energy in 2009.
Briefly: A decadent, affordable departure from the standard box-of-chocolate fare for Valentine’s Day this year is the chocolate Bouchon (“cork” in French) mix and mold set exclusively from Williams-Sonoma.
Previously, only available on the east coast at the Time Warner Center’s Bouchon Bakery in NYC, you can now make these amazing, small, rich, chocolate brownie-like treats at home. Great winter comfort dessert. Your love will “heart” them.
Oprah and Gail. Donnie and Marie. Sonny and Cher. Jill and Aaron.
Yes, Jill and Aaron – the new talent team in town is Jill Potter and Aaron Coleman. The two Asbury Park residents who have brought you some of the most creative and popular events our city has seen in the past few years are joining forces.
Jill Potter, for the past seven years has served as the Chairperson of the Asbury Park Marketing Fund and coordinator of seven Road Trips. Aaron Coleman, most recently was the events manager at Mattison Park, producing the Halloween Parade in town and The Center’s Disco Ball.
With the founding of Jill’s Aww Mama Productions and Aaron’s Pyramid Productions, both are committed to developing exciting entertainment events for you, as original as Asbury Park, all year long.
“We met during the preparations for Road Trip 7 and realized we have the same drive to make the Asbury Park area a year-round gay entertainment destination,” said Jill. “Asbury Park has to have a variety of entertainment options for the community at-large all year long – not just squeezed in to a couple of weekends during the summer.”
I hear they are working on a number of events from outdoor parties to theatre and more.
Another platform of their business is producing original and memorable private parties and corporate events, such as a “Lordy Lordy He’s Forty” themed birthday extravaganza for forty great friends. (Actually, that’s my idea for my birthday in a few years. Jill and Aaron will create something better for you.)
“Our companies are more than basic event planning,” said Aaron. “Nothing we do, either a private party or a large public event, will be run of the mill. Everything will be a specialty production – with a memorable out-of-the-box uniqueness.”
Jill and Aaron have been planning their first event – Gay Bingo on Saturday, Feb. 7 at the VFW Hall – since September and it’s certainly not standard fare.
“Christy Girlington will be the host for the Mardi Gras-themed evening of Gay Bingo and she is bringing her friends, the Bingo Verifying Divas Aaliyah Kiara Du’mure and Lady Victoria,” said Aaron. “While this is billed as a gay event, everyone is always welcome to come and have fun.”
Each guest will receive Mardi Gras accessories, 10 bingo cards and a dabber. Cocktails will be available from the Harrison-hosted bar.
For years, I went to Gay Bingo in New Hope, Pennsylvania at the Firehouse and it was a guaranteed great time. You can only imagine what happens when “O 69” is called out.
And the VFW Post 1333 is organically the perfect place for Jill and Aaron’s premier production – it has a vintage number drawing machine and illuminated call board. The room even has the right “Bingo smell,” whatever that is.
Gay Bingo is 10 great games with 10 special prizes – including a very valuable one-year subscription to this newspaper, ReVision theatre tickets and a grand jackpot of $250, a portion of the proceeds benefiting The Center in Asbury Park.
“We are ‘dragging out’ bingo in Asbury Park,” said Jill.
AwwMama.com has advanced discounted tickets and more info. Doors open at 7.45 pm.
Briefly: Another fab event for a winter evening, Gay Bowling returns Saturday (Jan. 24) at Asbury Lanes, 7 pm. Ten dollars includes shoes, bowling, pizza, prizes from local businesses, fun, friends and more. It’s seriously the best entertainment bargain in town. Hosted by the Barron of Bowling Michael Delia.
I was sorry to see the gay bar Cruisin’ close at the end of last year. It was a fun place filled with great people and wonderful, dedicated owners.
The buzz recently – both online at the Yahoo! Group and in person – from many in the gay community is that the GLBTI population is not supporting gay bars and businesses in town enough and there is a fear more gay-owned establishments will cease operation.
I want to spend my money with friends at clean establishments that have a fun atmosphere, serve great food and drinks for the price and whose bathrooms are not some kind of awful science experiment – regardless of who owns it.
I will, however, go out of my way not to patronize a business whose owner or business philosophy is built on homophobia.
In reality, most every bar in Asbury Park is a gay bar when a gay person is in it. And tons of straight men and women “tear it up” at the gay bars in town, too. Everyone is welcome to have fun and be themselves wherever they are – never is a “gay card” required.
That’s the great part of this issue. We GLBTI here define ourselves by our talents or lack thereof, not by our sexuality. Yet again, Asbury Park is a model community.
We are not a novelty here – no “token gays” in any crowd.
The GLBTI community does not need separate but equal playpens. It’s reverse discrimination to go out of our way to support a business solely because the owner is gay.
“Maybe the community would support the gay bars and restaurants more if they weren’t so overpriced,” said Garrett Giberson. “While some are reasonable, others are just ridiculous.”
Twelve dollars for a champagne cocktail that’s way more juice than bubbly or $11 for a simple produce-based appetizer that can be eaten in four bites? Almost three dollars per bite – the return on investment is just not there.
“In these times of economic hardship, adjustment is needed so that people will feel comfortable to come out to support our local businesses,” Garrett continued.
Quality and price trump gayness for many here. Possibly, it’s time for some GLBTI-owned businesses to reexamine their business plans – including renegotiating leases with landlords – and stop blaming the GLBTI community.
We should haul butts with our wallets to every and any area business that reliably shells out money to support Gay Bowling, Road Trip, Pride weekend and all the other fab events in town that skew GLBTI.
“Maybe if some of the establishments who cater to our community worked together rather than against each other these places could be even more successful,” said Garrett. “And they know who they are.”
Briefly: Happy 200th birthday to Edgar Allan Poe this week (Jan. 19). The wonderful Frank D’Allessandro and The Stephen Crane House are feting Poe Saturday (Jan. 17), at 5 pm, with a program of readings, including “The Raven” (one of my favorites), “The Tell Tale Heart” and “Annabel Lee” – and cake.
At 7 pm, there will be a screening of the 1962 film “Tales of Terror” starring Vincent Price. “The movie takes a rather droll, expansive view of Mr. Poe’s stories,” said Frank.
Donations benefit the Asbury Park Little League. Call: 732.775.5682
The Superbowl is coming up soon. No, not the Superbowl with the beefy guys (well, that one is coming up too), I’m talking about what some consider to be the “gay” Superbowl, the Miss America Pageant 2009 – Saturday, Jan. 24 (on TLC).
I spoke with Miss New Jersey, Ashley Fairfield, 22, of Egg Harbor last week about her quest to become the first Miss America from New Jersey in 25 years.
TBP: What do you do when you are not busy being Miss New Jersey?
Ashley: I am a full-time senior at Richard Stockton College, so when I am not doing five days of appearances, I am usually studying…or sleeping.
TBP: What was it like helping Ellen DeGeneres try to fulfill her long-standing goal of getting George Clooney on her show?
Ashley: Ellen is amazing. She dances through the commercials with the audience. As we were leaving, she read my sash, smiled and said, “Jerseeeeyyyy.” She is so much fun.
TBP: Ellen is the best. What is something we would have never known about Ashley Fairfield, Miss New Jersey?
Ashley: I love football and am a raging Eagles fan. I also love to golf but I am no female version of Tiger Woods. I’m not the “girly girl” stereotype associated with beauty queens.
TBP: Jazz dance is your talent and Habitat for Humanity is your platform issue. Coastal Habitat for Humanity has helped many families here, just finishing a beautiful home in Wall.
Ashley: There is nothing like seeing a child’s face when they walk into their own house, their own bedroom for the first time. I would love to come to Asbury Park and help build a house.
TBP: Everyone’s heard about Vaseline on the teeth, what are some other beauty queen beauty tips from a non-girly girl?
Ashley: One day dirty hair always styles thirty times better. Also, a lot of the girls use “butt glue” – a spray adhesive so bathing suits don’t move out of place during the competition.
TBP: What’s it like being a beauty queen in New Jersey?
Ashley: The past five years competing in pageants has been amazing. Being Miss New Jersey is a dream come true and I am enjoying every second of this experience. I am so thankful. From your state queen, I want to wish everyone a happy, healthy and joyous New Year.
Briefly: Whitney Houston is back, looking amazing and shopping like a champ. Last Monday I walked into the Mall at Short Hills right behind Whitney. As she held the door for me, I told her she “looked fabulous” and she leaned over towards me and whispered “thank you” back.
Wearing Dolce & Gabbana jeans that her stunning body pulled off perfectly, a bolero Chinchilla coat, amazing black boots, a four-thousand dollar Dior handbag and no make-up or hair extensions (her hair was under a beret-type hat), she entered Neiman-Marcus with a imperial personal presence only matched, for me, by Howard Stern or Aerosmith’s Stephen Tyler.
It was like Brad Pitt secretly walking into a gay bar – reflexively every in-the-know security guard and employee greeted Whitney with weakly controlled excitement. No one recognized her. It was her eyes, her stunning eyes that really gave her secret shopping trip away to me.
As a fan of Whitney’s since “How will I Know” and a passionate lover of her Christmas abum (one of the best ever) it was a great Christmas gift to see her doing well and looking happy and healthy.
TPB: What’s a clip that has not made it in the show but is memorable?
Answers to the most common questions asked about “You Say Who” – the area’s only gossip column…
$2 donation to GFNJ per registrant is suggested. 
It seems like there are more Halloween events around town than there are mini pumpkins and gourds in a gay man’s Autumn exteriorscape. Pet parades, séances and a huge Ball are all in the works to make the holiday terrifyingly fabulous. 
“I can’t wait to see the over the top costumes,” said Aaron. “This is a party for everyone. I know of one group coming here instead of going to Salem (Mass.)”
Bruce’s former tour chef. 
black Chihuahua running behind a black and white dog I would swear was a pony he was so big. 
“The biggest mistake owners make is that they treat there dogs like they are human,” said Jim, who has helped train some of the members of the Asbury Park Canine Unit. “Owners think dogs understand things like a person would. Most habits of the dog can be changed – it’s the owner that’s hard to change but we can do it.” 
Thursdays during the summer, told me “Jim is the most important part of the evening.”
Our canine companions are now officially permitted on the boardwalk. Jim Modica – owner of 
A new season of Gay Bowling at Asbury Lanes (Fourth Avenue at Kingsley) kicks off next month. In anticipation of more great fun at the Lanes, I spoke with Asbury Park-resident Michael Delia – Gay Bowling’s organizer.
Rarely is there feel-goodness, pure joy and wonderful frivolity set to song the way six guys from New York City – one with a home in Asbury Park – did here Sunday of Labor Day weekend.
add the title of “author” to her long list of credits. The book will absolutely be a best seller – its funny, revealing and dishy. It took two beach days to read the book because its so damn funny. Plus, Kathy gives the reader tons of never before seen photos from her personal collection. 
As written by David Willis in the 
LAST month, Howard Roche and Luke Magliaro [photo left], owners of the iconic Moonstruck restaurant, quietly celebrated two decades of palate pleasing. In an exclusive Coaster and TheBPlot interview, they discussed the evolution of their business, partnership and passion for putting the customer first…
Every customer I spoke with echoed Carolyn’s sentiments, however Luke and Howard don’t rest on praise, working with an ever-evolving menu.
Century 21 Coastal Realtors, who has known Luke and Howard for decades. 
Lately, I have been so amazed at the gorgeous, fun products created for our companion animals. 
![walter S_T_A_U_N_C_H[1]](http://thebplot.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/walter-s_t_a_u_n_c_h1.jpg?w=150&h=123 "walter S_T_A_U_N_C_H[1]")
The curtain rises next Thursday (August 12) on 
Sunday, Page Six tried to break the news that Whitney Houston [left] will not be performing live on Good Morning America (
As Whitney Houston continues her strategically choreographed “listening tour” – stops have included Beverly Hills and London - to begin the drum beat for the release of her new album “I Look to You” on September 1, I spoke with two friends of Asbury Park and attendees of last Tuesday’s party in New York’s Time-Warner building. Over cocktails on Watermark’s new and gorgeous 2500 sq. foot cedar deck, our friends gave me the exciting first-hand scoop: 
“Clive talked about the four year journey to produce this album in front of an amazing group of guests, including: Martha Stewart, Diane Sawyer, Alicia Keys (who wrote one of the tracks), Gayle King, Vivica Fox and tons of the most powerful music and radio industry executives. 
TBP: What’s your fave Asbury Park moment?
Mayor: My message to everyone is very simple – be who you are. I really never concentrate on the fact that I am Black or Native American or gay or a man or an educator. All of these things are the parts that make up the much larger person that I am. 
Avenue. Produced by the super-talented 
music by DJ Rico. 
Amanda: I love Asbury Park. Growing up in New Jersey, I have always loved the beach. I think I got lost on the Asbury Park boardwalk as a kid. 
The Tides is also throwing no cover charge pool parties Saturday and Sunday afternoon. I love that place to relax with a cocktail on their original Frank Gehry-designed outdoor furniture, surrounded by lush foliage, art, people and architecture. It’s a vacation in our backyard.
between 1 and 5, depending upon the intensity of the UV light. 
Suzanne Westenhoefer – the very first openly gay comic, in the early 1990’s – rules the stage of the Stone Pony next 
Covering the circus that was the Liza Minnelli – David Gest wedding in 2002 for Howard Stern, I watched a number of celebrities pass through the side “VIP Entrance” of the stunning Marble Collegiate Church. 
ebony spices, vintage leather, iced lavender and nutmeg presented in a gorgeous wood box. With four stores in our area our friends at Banana Republic make it easy to smell great – especially with this summer steal: buy any two 7.5 ml EDT bottles of the seven fab fragrances (men or women) for $15. $45, 50 ml EDT. Banana Republic stores everywhere.
Unique. Strong. Soulful. Inspired by all New York City (or our city) has to offer…the energy – Bergamot and mandarin…the emotion – spicy white pepper and Cardamom and wet Jasmine…the guy – Cedarwood and Patchouli…and the twist – Orris and Vetiver. $65, 3.4 oz EDT. Bloomingdales, Lord & Taylor and Sephora. 
A vacation or your mouth is within reach with the new hand-crafted chocolate and caramel extravagances made fresh in Asbury Park by Jack Petronella, owner, Manhattan Jack Confections.
![Nuzzles_large[1]](http://thebplot.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/nuzzles_large1.jpg?w=215&h=300 "Nuzzles_large[1]")
You know you wonder what life is like for your dog when you are not around. Uncle Milton’s Pet’s Eye View Camera give you a dog’s-eye view with this lightweight digital camera that attaches onto your dog’s collar. Set the self-timer to take a picture every 1, 5 or 15 minutes to take a sneak peek into his secret world. Comes with a USB cord to download photos directly into your computer. This is seriously so much fun. 
TBP: What is misunderstood about Little Edie?
by Richard Virgilio
by Richard Virgilio
