Red Carpet Event - April 3rd "4Chosen"

The Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) will host Starline Films' theatrical documentary, "4CHOSEN" at a special red carpet premiere screening on Thursday, April 3rd in the Paramount Theater, 1300 Ocean Ave. Asbury Park, NJ.

The event kicks off at at 6:30 pm with celebrity red carpet arrivals including: Danny Aiello (Do The Right Thing), Montel Williams (4CHOSEN), Vinny Pastore (Sopranos), Randy Jones (The Village People/The Gentleman), Chuck Zito (HBO's OZ), Kwame Jackson (The Apprentice), Jon Doscher (REMEDY/The Gentleman), The Cast of The Gentleman, and many more! Come and see a bit of Hollywood here in Asbury Park. The red carpet hosts for this event are Valentine Leone and Shannon Leroux.

The screening begins at 7:30pm and the VIP reception follows with the shore band Brian Kirk and the Jirks. Limited # of tickets are available for $25 and can be purchased at http://www.starlinefilms.com. Proceeds will benefit the Montel Williams MS Foundation and support the 6th Annual Garden State Film Festival.

"4CHOSEN" tells the story of four young minority basketball players from New York City who were traveling to North Carolina for a college basketball showcase when they were profiled by two NJ State Troopers and shot 13 times. A powerful team of attorneys led by Johnnie Cochran assist them as they rebuild their lives and influence major law changes. April 23, 2008 marks the 10 Year Anniversary of this incident.

This documentary, produced and directed by actor Jon Doscher and narrated by Montel Williams, features interviews with Reverend Al Sharpton, Peter Neufeld, Barry Schek, and Wynton Marsalis.

Starline Films is a motion picture production/distribution company currently working on several films including the major motion pictures 4CHOSEN and Anyone's Son, in which Academy Award Nominated Actor Danny Aiello will be making his directorial debut.

More information is available here on asburyboardwalk.com

4CHOSEN at the Garden State Film Festival

The Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) will host Starline Films' theatrical documentary, "4CHOSEN" at a special red carpet premiere screening on Thursday, April 3rd at the famed Paramount Theater, 1300 Ocean Ave. Asbury Park, NJ.

The event kicks off at at 6:30 pm with celebrity red carpet arrivals. The screening begins at 7:30pm and the VIP reception follows with the shore band Brian Kirk and the Jirks.

Limited # of tickets available. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at http://www.starlinefilms.com. Proceeds will benefit the Montel Williams MS Foundation and support the 6th Annual Garden State Film Festival.

Celebrities scheduled so far include: Danny Aiello (Do The Right Thing), Montel Williams (4CHOSEN), Vinny Pastore (Sopranos), Randy Jones (The Village People/The Gentleman), Chuck Zito (HBO's OZ), Kwame Jackson (The Apprentice), Jon Doscher (REMEDY/The Gentleman), The Cast of The Gentleman, and many more! Come and see a bit of Hollywood here in Asbury Park.

"4CHOSEN" tells the story of four young minority basketball players from New York City who were traveling to North Carolina for a college basketball showcase when they were profiled by two NJ State Troopers and shot 13 times. A powerful team of attorneys led by Johnnie Cochran assist them as they rebuild their lives and influence major law changes. April 23, 2008 marks the 10 Year Anniversary of this incident. This documentary, produced and directed by actor Jon Doscher and narrated by Montel Williams, features interviews with Reverend Al Sharpton, Peter Neufeld, Barry Schek, and Wynton Marsalis.

According to Raver, "We are thrilled to welcome Montel Williams to host this special benefit that will raise money for Mr. William's very worthwhile Foundation."

Tickets for the Special screening and Reception are $25 and can be purchased at the event; or on the GSFF web site (http://www.gsff.org/) and at http://www.starline.com/. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Montel Williams MS Foundation (http://www.montelms.org/) and support the 6th Annual Garden State Film Festival.

Starline Films is a motion picture production/distribution company currently working on several films including the major motion pictures 4CHOSEN and Anyone's Son, in which Academy Award Nominated Actor Danny Aiello will be making his directorial debut. Both films will be produced in association with Insomnia Media Group at Universal Pictures. Letnom Productions, Montel Williams Production Company, will also be co-producing the feature film 4CHOSEN.

The artistic philosophy of the Garden State Film Festival is rooted in the celebration of the independent film genre and the creation of a forum where local and other independent filmmakers can exhibit their work. The event provides novice and aspiring filmmakers, actors, and others interested in a career in the film business, the opportunity to meet and network with industry professionals in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and mentoring. GSFF is an all volunteer non-profit organization.

More information is available here on asburyboardwalk.com

dd/3/26/2008

A New Look for the Asbury Park Boardwalk

Madison Marquette is leading the renovations to the Asbury Park Boardwalk for a second year now. The boardwalk pavillions are have been completly gutted and are bring prepared to for new and returning operators.

Madison Marquette and the City of Asbury Park are working side-by-side to have these major renovations completed by Memorial Day Weekend.

Madison Marquette taken over as the managing partner for the boardwalk operations and since that time, have completed cleaning up the casino complex, installed a new roof and have plans to bring the casino back to life over the next two years.

Madison Marquette also is continuing work restoring Convention Hall and Paramount Theatre and creating a unique market atomshphere in the Convention Hall Arcade. Palsn for this summer also include a wading pool/glamour and small cabana deck along the boardwalk.

The summer of 2008 will be an exciting one in the new Asbury Park.

Come and find out why.

Springsteen Rehearsing in Asbury Park

All those Roadshow trailers parked around Convention Hall these past couple days aren't here for the upcoming Cat Show this weekend, but are here for Bruce Sprinsteen's rehersal sessions for the upcoming tour which kicks off on 2/28 in Hartford - goes oversees then comes back to Giants Stadium in July.

Come donw to Asbury Park and take a look around. The summer of 2008 in Asbury Park will be all new.

It's amazing. It's Asbury Park.

For all the excitement, see asburyboardwalk.com

Levon Helm to Perform at The Paramount Theatre

Levon Helm comes to The Paramount Theatre in Asbury Park on February 16, 2008.

Levon Helm has been in the business of making music for over forty years and if the walls of “The Barn” could talk, what stories they would tell! Music legends galore have played, jammed and recorded there and he is happily continuing that tradition.

Read more about Levon Helms and The Band at their website.

For tickets to see Levon Helm please go to our events page.

Madison Marquette - Asbury Park Plans Continue to Develop

The press release follows. What this shows is that Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners are committed to the City of Asbury Park as whole. Combined, these two companies have the capability to pull off of the largest redevelopment projects in one of the most challenging towns.

In addition to rebuilding the boardwalk and those properties in the redevelopment zone, Madison would like to create one united marketing effort for the city.

For what it's worth, I like the idea based on what we heard today. Hopefully, Madison Marquette, The City and Asbury Partners can work together to bring this phase of developing Asbury Park to a reality.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MADISON MARQUETTE AND ASBURY PARTNERS
OUTLINE UNIFIED VISION FOR RESTORING ASBURY PARK
Private Initiatives to Include Support
for Education, Public Safety and Waterfront Redevelopment

ASBURY PARK, N.J., Jan. 14, 2008 -- The much-anticipated revitalization of the Asbury Park Waterfront is about to take a giant leap forward according to Gary Mottola, president of Madison Marquette Investments and the managing partner of Experience Asbury, the joint venture between Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners that is responsible for the City's Boardwalk redevelopment efforts.

"We've been working for the last six months on a comprehensive plan for dramatically improving and transforming the entire Waterfront Redevelopment Area, and we're thrilled to announce that the pieces have come together and we're ready to go," said Mottola.

Mottola and Hugh Lamle, president of MD Sass and the managing partner of Asbury Partners, the Waterfront's Master Redeveloper, detailed their plans in an announcement at the newly renovated Paramount Theatre, which is part of Asbury Park's renowned Convention Hall.

"Hugh and I agree on two critical aspects of the redevelopment," said Mottola. "First, that the Waterfront redevelopment effort needs a single unified and coordinated vision; and second, that the efforts to revitalize the Waterfront will never be truly successful without the involvement of the entire community. In Asbury Park, the components of a successful redevelopment are heavily interdependent. The revitalization of the Boardwalk and the Waterfront, no matter how well executed, cannot be truly successful if the off-Boardwalk areas are dilapidated and unfinished; if Downtown is not thriving as well; if visitors to the City are concerned about their safety; if the schools are unable to provide a solid education; or if any segment of the community is struggling."

To address this need for a comprehensive community-wide effort, Mottola announced that Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners would sponsor the Asbury Park Initiative, a 5 part plan intended both to advance the Waterfront revitalization and to provide for a significant increase in support from private enterprise for the Asbury Park community.

The Initiative includes: 1) an extensive renovation of all of the Boardwalk facilities from the Convention Hall to the Casino Building; 2) major improvements to the off-Boardwalk portion of the Waterfront Redevelopment Area; 3) the creation of a Boardwalk-Downtown coalition to improve the coordination of marketing and public events and to realize upon the synergies of a coordinated merchandising effort; 4) a commitment for a substantial increase in private support for Asbury Park's schools and the City's community at large; and 5) increased private support for the City's continuing efforts to improve public safety. Implementation of the Initiative is expected to begin immediately upon City approval and to be substantially completed by next summer.

The Initiative

Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners have created a five-part program, to be implemented immediately upon City approval, and with a goal for substantial completion by summer of 2008.

Part I: The Boardwalk Renovation

Improvements to the Boardwalk for summer 2008 will be extensive, and will dramatically transform the entire Boardwalk experience. The architectural design for the improvements will be provided by David Mexico of the Rockwell Group. The Rockwell Group has earned an international reputation as arguably the most dynamic and creative architectural firm in the design of exciting new entertainment venues. The improvements will include:

1. Completing the upgrade of Convention Hall. The Paramount Theatre was restored last summer. Remaining Convention Hall renovations will include all new exterior windows, improvements to all interior and exterior storefronts, substantial upgrades to the Grand Arcade, new heating and air conditioning for the entire building, an entirely new roofing system, fire and life safety upgrades including stairways to the beach to accommodate exiting, interior beautification, and the rehabilitation of exterior and interior historic elements. Also scheduled are upgrades to the infrastructure of Convention Hall to accommodate major national promotions, including new bathroom and concession facilities and new sound and lighting systems.
2. Extensive re-imaging of the Boardwalk. New pedestrian-level lighting, a comprehensive graphics and banner program, a well-conceived Boardwalk vending program and a more pleasing, carefully controlled program for extending merchants onto their adjoining Boardwalk spaces will enhance visitors' perception and experience.

3. Renovation and re-tenanting of the Fifth Avenue Pavilion, completing plans already approved by City Council.

4. Renovation and re-tenanting of the Third Avenue Pavilion.

5. Renovation and re-tenanting of the First Avenue Pavilion.

6. The construction of an exciting public beach club on the site of the Second Avenue Pavilion.

7. Complete stabilization of the Carousel portion of the Casino building and reactivation of the Carousel space for public use in summer 2008.

8. Surface coating and beautification of the plaza adjoining the Casino building and First Avenue Pavilion so it can be used effectively for public purposes.

9. Restoration and beautification of all green spaces along the Boardwalk including well-designed recreational components, providing an exciting and dynamic experience for visitors strolling from Convention Hall to the Casino.

10. A comprehensive and extensive year-round marketing and public events program for the Boardwalk, with special emphasis on the summer season. Already planned are dozens of unique and traditional events, including a major triathlon in July, the return of the volleyball, road racing, and lifeguard competitions and other sports tournaments; kite festivals, fireworks displays, an enhanced Garden State Film Festival, premier showings of feature films as well as other film-themed programs, and ongoing music programming. An extensive effort will be made to attract additional filmmaking and music recording to Asbury Park.

11. Removal of all trailers along the Boardwalk, and replacing them with improved public restroom facilities adjacent to the First Avenue Pavilion and in the Convention Hall.

The Boardwalk will feature a spectacular array of new and newly-expanded tenants, including:
Tim McLoone's Supper Club, an exciting new restaurant and entertainment venue operated by Jersey Shore legend Tim McLoone
An extraordinary new Italian eatery by Joe and Mike Cetrulo, operators of Scalini Fideli, Sirena and other top Italian restaurants in New York City and New Jersey
A cutting edge Trek Bicycle concept store owned and operated by Kathy Pena of Brielle Cyclery
An all-American diner operated by Taka, Asbury Park's current master of Japanese cuisine
An amazingly hip lounge and club created by Russell Lewis (owner of the widely acclaimed Baker Boys Bakery) and his partner Paul Connolly. Russell will also be opening a new Baker Boys shop on the Boardwalk
An eclectic combination of a new-style Mexican restaurant, authentic surf shop, and creative art gallery to be concocted by surfer, restaurateur and philanthropist supreme Marilyn Schlossbach
An expanded panini and Italian delicacy shop operated by Kathy Mongiello, the Boardwalk's newly-famous Panini Lady
The reopening of Lance and Debbie's Wonder Bar, with a newly-designed exterior terrace and volleyball court along Ocean Avenue
Part II: Off-Boardwalk Waterfront Area

A series of new improvements will significantly upgrade and beautify the off-Boardwalk Waterfront area, creating an instant impression of progress in the redevelopment and providing a safer and more user-friendly environment. Five hundred new surface parking spaces, which will be paved, well-lighted and secured, will be created. Other improvements will include:

1. Removing and burying the overhead power lines on Ocean Avenue.
2. Adding lighting to the unlit west side of Ocean Avenue and the numbered avenues to provide a safer and more user-friendly environment.

3. Completion of the Wesley Lake bulkhead restoration and parking spaces.

4. Paving, securing, lighting and providing parking on the Block adjacent to the Casino, the block between Second and Third Avenue and the block between Fourth and Fifth Avenue.

5. Cleaning up and landscaping many of the currently vacant areas in the Waterfront Redevelopment Area.

6. Donating funds to the City for the restoration and landscaping Bradley Park.

7. Grading and beautification of the triangle block along Cookman to provide a more dramatic entrance from Downtown to the Boardwalk.

8. Topcoat paving of and increased lighting along Kingsley and the several of the numbered avenues, and the addition of curbing, to provide for a neater, safer environment and more orderly parking.

9. A coordinated program of graphics and signage to reinforce a strong perception of progress in the revitalization.

10. The complete reconfiguration of Cookman Avenue east of Kingsley and Ocean Avenue from the Casino to the Convention Hall to provide the pedestrian- and merchandising-friendly environment contemplated by the WRP.

Other major developments in the off-Boardwalk area include the recently-announced acquisition by Madison Marquette of the Kushner properties along Cookman Avenue and the plans by Paramount Homes to proceed with the next phase of its residential development in North Beach. "We will be submitting our application for formal approval of the Kushner acquisition to the City this week, and we intend to proceed with the next phase of the residential development there by next summer," said Mottola of Madison Marquette.
"We're excited about expanding our commitment to Asbury Park to include a well-designed residential component." Jeffrey Fernbach, president of Paramount Homes, added: "I'm pleased to confirm that Paramount Homes will be proceeding with its next phase of development. We have already received the approval of the Technical Review Committee for our 120 unit project and will be moving forward with the remaining approvals and the start of construction."

Part III: Cookman Avenue and Downtown District

Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners will sponsor a Downtown-Boardwalk Coalition to coordinate marketing efforts and to create a genuine synergy between the Downtown merchants and the Boardwalk venues. Initial members of the coalition will include Dan DiBenedetto, president of the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce; two prominent Cookman Avenue merchants, Steven Troy of Robert Legere Homes and Marilyn Schlossbach of Market in the Middle; and Rob Ranuro of RDR Development, a prominent Asbury Park developer. Initiatives which may be undertaken by the Coalition include implementing a trolley service between Downtown and the Boardwalk (a service that already has been provided by Experience Asbury on many special dates over the past six months.)

Part IV: Schools and Communities

Recognizing that a comprehensive redevelopment initiative for Asbury Park must address the needs of the community overall, Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners, working closely with City officials and community groups, will expand their efforts in funding and sponsoring community programs and initiatives and will coordinate and encourage the involvement of other private businesses in these efforts. This will include:

Working with Tyler Blackmore, the principal of Asbury Park High School, to sponsor and support the newly-created Arts and Humanities Academy at the high school.
Creating a program that gives priority for employment to residents of Asbury Park and provides City residents with the opportunity to participate in the Waterfront revitalization. Specifically, any Asbury Park residents who may have lost their employment as a result of the recent halting of construction at the Esperanza will be given top priority for employment on Waterfront projects.
Part V: Public Safety

The Asbury Park Police Department, working with the New Jersey State Police and the Monmouth County Prosecutor, has mounted a strong campaign to improve public safety in Asbury Park. Although we recognize that public safety will always remain a government function, Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners will, both directly and in coordination with other private interests, offer to support this effort under the guidance of the Police Department and other enforcement agencies. One area where we can be of assistance is in the implementation of a video surveillance system in the City. Video surveillance has been shown to be a very effective tool in increasing public safety. Madison Marquette and Asbury Partners are willing to fund the gap needed to allow the immediate installation and operation of a video surveillance system in Asbury Park. Other areas of support will include:

Continuing the private security patrols in the Waterfront Development Area which are being funded by Asbury Partners and Madison Marquette, and coordinating these security efforts with the Asbury Park Police Department.
Continuing to fund an additional police presence in critical redevelopment locations.
In closing, Gary Mottola stated: "Asbury Park is a truly special place, a place with an emotional connection to virtually everyone in New Jersey. We're proud to be a part of what's happening here, and confident that this City will move forward to once again become a premiere resort and entertainment destination of the East Coast." However, Mottola was careful to point out the challenges facing the Initiative. "While we are confident that Asbury Park's Waterfront revitalization effort can succeed, we believe that success will be dependent on two critical factors: first, an immediate, unified development effort on a major scale; and second, the extensive involvement of the community in the revitalization, and the expansive support of the community by private enterprise."


Thank you.
David Dorfman
asburyboardwalk.com

Madison Marquette to the Rescue....

Asbury Park, New Jersey January 4, 2008 - Madison Marquette, a national developer of retail and residential real estate, announced today they have purchased redevelopment project which was started by The Kushner Companies.

The stalled project, known as Wesley Grove has 22 of 91 units sold and 2 other blocks slated for residential development, empty. A total of 750 units were planned by Kushner. Those that were built, known as the St. James - was considered by many as dull and did little to beautify the area.

According to an article on the ASbury Park Press January 4, Mottola said, "We think we can accelerate the whole process there,", "Since Kushner Cos. did a business strategy of exiting New Jersey, they didn't have the same level of excitement about Asbury Park as we have and which we can bring to this project."

"We're going to completely finish all the units, improve the overall look," Mottola
said. "The whole area will be cleaned up and beautified." Thank god. It needs to be cleaned up.

Madison Marquette's investment last spring in the city gave a boost to the boardwalk as new restaurants opened and the city's historic icons, Paramount Theatre, Convention Hall and the Casino, underwent renovation and restoration.

This announcement came a few weeks after Hoboken developer Dean Geibel and Metro Homes shut down its oceanfront Esperanza condominium site, citing a "national mortgage crisis" that had caused a setback for the company.

While there is a national slowdown in residential real estate, there is a string demand to create DESTINATIONS, especially since Asbury Park WAS a destination, IS a destination and will ALWAYS be a destination.

It takes vision, dedication, money, work and city that is able to communicate and work with developers.

The OCEAN and SAND are waiting.

Congratulations Madison Marquette.

Don't let anyone down. So far, you have a big fan club.

Esperanza At Asbury Park Offering Refunds

On December 28, I noted that as of that date, there was no word from Metro Homes LLC and those who had deposits on units at The Esperanza at Asbury Park.

However, while this writer has not heard from Metro (not that they have to tell me...), they have communicated with several of those who asked about the status of their deposits.

There is GOOD news. Metro Homes LLC has offered to return deposits to those that request it regardless. That is, Metro is still looking to complete this project and arrange financing to do so. They are still considering this a "temporary" work stoppage - and therefore not legally obligated to return those deposits. This is what I have heard from several of those who placed deposits and were real concerned that their deposit money would disappear.

We're awaiting some official word on what will happen with The Esperanza at Asbury Park. There is lots of talk on how it will be completed - and by whom.

Stay tuned.


After All, THIS is Asbury Park.

Join the fun, the excitement and challenge of this City by the Sea.

So Far NO Refunds for The Esperanza Buyers

As of December 28, 2007, those who have placed a deposit on The Esperanza in Asbury Park do not know the fate of the those deposits.

On December 9, 2007, Dean Geibel, President of Metro Homes LLC, the developer closed the sales office and stopped construction on the two-building complex of 224 units. Citing market conditions, he called it a "temporary" situation.

According to published reports, up to 70 contracts were placed on units. What disturbs some is that a day or two before the announcement, Mr. Geibel announced "the largest sale or a single family residence in Asbury Park...$2.6 million..". Prior to that announcement, he announced that musician John Oates purchased a unit for over $600,000. The musical team of Hall & Oates were so happy, they even snuck in a concert at the partially restored (thanks to Madison Marquette) Paramount Theatre on December 7, 2007. Then, jsut TWO days later - the sudden shift.

So there you have it, contractors, sales staff, the city and those who believe in the the new Asbury Park - were all left wondering - now what?

As for those who put down around 10% deposit for their unit, Mr. Geibel was kind enough to make this statement, "Geibel said the money people put down on their units is being held in escrow. "It's too early to decide how they'll be impacted," he said.

Now, what the &)$% does that mean? Is the Esperanza going to be built - 2008, 2009, 2010? Will Metro Homes be the builder? Have some of these "deposits" been spent (one attorney noted that their (Metro) contracts permitted this - smart attorneys protected their client's deposits - to some degree.

Mr. Geibel delivered a wonderful dream to the City of Asbury Park and to, according to Mr. Geibel, "almost 70.." buyers. Now the City has asked him for further details on the stalled project.

Those with deposits on the units are asking as well. Metro Homes LLC did not, as of this date, communicate with any of those with deposits.

Asbury Park has seen it all. Asbury Park will continue on with or without The Esperanza, Metro Homes or Mr. Geibel.

The City of Asbury Park is filled with opportunities - single family homes, lots of existing and new condos, apartments, businesses and good people who were here BEFORE the Esperanza was announced.

The Berkeley Hotel has been renovated and is open. Madison Marquette took over cleaning up the boardwalk buildings. And more importantly - lots of "little" people have done the rest.

Mr. Geibel, return those deposits to those that have asked for it back. These people have a vision as well - and that vision is their spot in Asbury Park.

You have moved on. Let those with deposits move in.

In Asbury Park.

By David Dorfman
Licensced NJ Real Estate Agent
email:apboardwalk@yahoo.com
See asburyboardwalk.com/asburyparkrealestate.htm for more info on Real Estate in Asbury Park.

Publisher of asburyboardwalk.com
*no affiliation with the City of Asbury Park nor Asbury Partners

Developer of Esperanza at Asbury Park Halts Project

December 10, 2007:

Dean Geibel, president of Metro Homes, said the company recently informed the city that it was halting construction and sales "until such time market conditions allow us to move forward and successfully complete this important luxury beachfront development.

Geibel said there are sales contracts on about 70 of the 224 condominium units in the two-tower building, which was originally scheduled to be completed end of 2007. The revised schedule would of been,in our opinion, 2009.

Geibel said the money people put down on their units is being held in escrow. "It's too early to decide how they'll be impacted," he said.

Metro Homes paid the master developer $17 million plus for the rights to build on the site of the former failed project started in the 80's known as Ocean Mile.

While this is not the best thing to happen at this time in the redevelopment effort, the rest of the town continues to reinvent itself.

The Paramount Theatre, Convention Hall and the Casino are all undergoing major renovations to bring them back to life.

Hopefully, The Esperanza project will resume.

Hopefully, they will change their sales approach.

Asbury Park Pop Warner National Champs

On December 7, 2007 The Asbury Park Pop Warner Pee Wees won the National Chanmpionship in the Pee Wee Division. The championship game was played in Lake Beuna Vista, Florida where the Blue Bishops beat Capital City Steelers from North Carolina by a score of 20-0.

The team pulled through with their second win in Florida. The team was full of energy and spirit which pulled them through.

Congratulations to the team, the families, the coaches and everyone else who made their dream a reality.

An extra thank you to the sponsors who helped fund the trip to Florida. A celebration is planned.

Paramount Theatre, Stone Pony Tickets from Ticketmaster

You can now order Ticketmaster event tickets directly from the asburyboardwalk.com website. Tickets for major events at Convention Hall, The Paramomunt Theatre, The Stone Pony and other venues in Asbury Park may be ordered directly from the asburyboardwalk.com event listings via Ticketmaster.com.

Not all tickets for all events in these venues are available via Tickemaster. For a list of upcoming events, please visit the asburyboardwalk.com website and click on
" events ".

Featured next month are the legendary Hall & Oates coming to the Paramount Theatre on December 7, 2007. For tickets, please go to our " events " guide.

Asbury Park Little League needs a few more $

This was posted on the Asbury Park Yahoo Group. A local group has done an amazing job of bringing the Asbury Park Little League back to life. The group has raised some money for most of the work to be done and are still a bit short. Read the following and see if you can help in way or another.

Thank you.
David Dorfman
asburyboardwalk.com

We're almost there!!

Dear Fellow Citizens:

Many of you have followed the Little League field redevelopment efforts with
interest. Some of you have taken an active roll in supporting this effort.
Everyone wants to see this effort succeed. You do this because you believe in
supporting our efforts to provide a safe & fun environment for the kids of
Asbury Park to learn and play baseball.

We have good news concerning our renovation project! We are pleased to
announce that the Asbury Park Little League will be receiving a grant from
Interfaith Neighbors for the purchase and installation of the field lighting.
The field lighting is part of the Interfaith Neighbors Asbury Park West Side
Redevelopment Plan that encompasses not only the expansion of recreational
programs and facilities, but also includes the construction of affordable
housing on the West Side of Asbury Park. We are grateful for the partnership
with Interfaith Neighbors and know that the field lighting will be great for the
kids.

That being said, we are still approximately $23,000 short of the $225,000
required to complete the project. As you may know, we have already finished
the complete overhaul of the infield, installed new field fencing and safety
netting, bought two new bleachers, and installed a brand new score board, flag
pole and bullpen & batting cage area. The last phase of the project is the
purchase and installation of the field lighting and the construction of a field
house that will have a large storage area, the 3rd base dug-out, as well as an
announce's booth/meeting room. In addition to the field house, a dug-out will
be built on the 1st base line. I know that you will take pride in this ball
field when these structures are completed. We will have a first class baseball
facility.

I am making an urgent appeal to you to support this field renovation project.
Please make a donation today to this important project. All of the necessary
government approvals have been received so that we can start construction; all
we need is your valued support so that we can finish the ball park. Please make
a donation today either by visiting us online at
http://eteamz.active.com/APLittleLeague or by sending it to:

Asbury Park Little League

PO Box 702

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Remember, all donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.

We thank you so very much for your support of this very important project for
the kids of Asbury Park and remain,

Sincerely yours,
Danny McKee

Danny McKee

President

Asbury Park Little League

cell: 732 768 6860

I NEED SPRINGSTEEN TICKETS!!!!

Geez. Yes, I need Springsteen tix for Monday or Tuesday night or both.

Ticketmaster Phonecharge only played back "all circuits are busy..." then I finally got through at 9:33 am- got the "sorry not available at this time.."

Yea, you'd think ever since I've been publishing this website and promoting the Boardwalk and Downtown, I'd have an inside shot, right? Wrong.

My daughter just called me from school. I said, "no, I didn't get any.." She repleid, "how'd you know what I was calling for?" I told her because I already put gas in her car.

The asburyboardwalk.com website started out originally for my kids so they could understand what the boardwalk was all about and for that matter, the city. At that time, not so six years long ago, the ghosts were still lingering and her driving seemed far off. Just a couple monhts ago, she called as she was drinving down Kingsley in her Jeep, blasting "Born to Run". Her first official trip with her driver's license.

Today, she thinks AP is one of the coolest places going.

"Dad, how about trying that press pass thing like we used to do with the Warped Tour??" I'd arrange for press passes for that and a couple other events and she'd cover them for the asburyboardwalk.com website.

We were just eating pizza in Vic's last night and she told a story how when she was 3, she worked in my store on the boardwalk and I was selling those little beach pails for around $1.00 (I felt bad for the little kids coming in and the moms yelling they can't have it cause they ain't got no money). I probably gave them all away. She'd almost cry when those pails left the store because she thought they were all hers. I think I still have a few left in the house here somewhere.

So all we need are some tickets. Or press passes. And we'll gladly pay for the benefit concerts.

Help make dad look good.

I'm going to donate the money raised from the asburyboardwalk.com website where people clicked on ads related to Bruce Springsteen.

Thanks and enjoy the show and city.

For fun, read this BRUCE and THE Asbury Diner Story, old Bruce story someone sent in. If you have an old Bruce story, send it in.

Springsteen in Concert in Asbury Park

Tickets go on sale at 9 a.m. Thursday for Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band's two benefit rehearsal concerts at Convention Hall in Asbury Park.

The concerts are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, both at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $100, available through Ticketmaster phone charge. Beneficiaries for the concerts have not yet been announced.

Springsteen's new album, "Magic," will be released Oct. 2, and his tour with the E Street Band begins that night in Hartford, Conn.

Bruce will be appearing in shows October 5 and 6 at the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, Oct. 9 and 10 at Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, and Oct. 17 and 18 at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan.

Springsteen has a long history of rehearsing and performing at Convention Hall, on the boardwalk at 1300 Ocean Ave. and Fifth Avenue, before his albums are released and his tours begin.

Speakers have been set up outside Convention Hall with local programming drowning out the live music, so you can't here the practice sessions.

For more information and tickets see http://www.asburyboardwalk.com/events.htm

Springsteen and Boardwalk Bike Ride

This morning I woke up with sun shining and figured I should get myself bike on my bicycle and head towards either Asbury Park or Long Branch.

I headed towards Asbury, as the wind appeared to be going against me and I figured and catch it on the way back to Oakhurst. Once I got going, I realized we had a nice west wind - so either way I was doomed. But the weather was great.

By the time I made to Convention Hall, I noticed that there were around 20 people mingling around and security was parking cars. I forgot that Bruce Springsteen was rehearsing in Convention Hall for the release tour of 'Magic'.

Given that I was a bit tired, I waited for 5 minutes, then continued my ride to the Casino - or what will become the NEW casino. Madison Marquette has breathed new life into the boardwalk redevelopment. Where Asbury Partners stalled and scared everyone, MM has shown they can make things look good.

Back to my bike and back to Convention Hall. After another 5 minutes, Bruce pulled up the service ramp in his Range Rover, grinning at the few fans waiting to catch a glimpse and parked his RR in his usual spot on the promenade of Convention Hall.

Now all I had to was ride against the wind back to Oakhurst.

So back to work.

Now I have to find my daughter and star reporter for asburyboardwalk.com a couple "press passes" to the rehearsals. More on Bruce Springsteen on asburyboardwalk.com

One more Summer Song....

Meatloaf...

I hate reading the lyrics...sounds so great sung.

YOU TOOK THE WORDS RIGHT OUT OF MY MOUTH (Hot Summer Night)

BOY: On a hot summer night would you offer your throat to the wolf with the red roses?
GIRL: Will he offer me his mouth?

BOY: Yes

GIRL: Will he offer me his teeth?

BOY: Yes

GIRL: Will he offer me his jaws?

BOY: Yes

GIRL: Will he offer me his hunger?

BOY: Yes

GIRL: Again, will he offer me his hunger?

BOY: Yes!

GIRL: And will he starve without me?

BOY: Yes!

GIRL: And does he love me?

BOY: Yes

GIRL: Yes

BOY: On a hot summer night would you offer your throat to the wolf with the red roses?

GIRL: Yes

BOY: I bet you to say that to all the boys.

It was a hot summer night and the beach was burning
There was fog crawling over the sand
When I listened to your heart I hear the whole world turning
I see the shooting stars
Falling through your trembling hands

You were licking your lips and your lipstick shining
I was dying just to ask for a taste
We were lying together in a silver lining
By the light of the moon
You know there's not another moment
Not another moment
Not another moment to waste

When you hold me so close that my knees grow weak
And my soul is flying high above the ground
I'm trying to speak but no matter what I do
I just can't seem to make any sound

And then you took the words right out of my mouth
Oh it must have been while you were kissing me
You took the words right out of my mouth
And I swear it's true
I was just about to say I love you

And then you took the words right out of my mouth
Oh it must have been while you were kissing me
You took the words right out of my mouth
And I swear it's true
I was just about to say I love you

Now my body is shaking like a wave on the water
And I guess that I'm beginning to grin
Oooh, we're finally alone and we can do what we want to
The night is young
And ain't no one gonna know where you
No one gonna know where you
No one's gonna know where you've been

You were licking your lips and your lipstick shining
I was dying just to ask for a taste
We were lying together in a silver lining
By the light of the moon
You know there's not another moment
Not another moment
Not another moment to waste

And then you took the words right out of my mouth
Oh it must have been while you were kissing me

Springsteen warming up....

Sounds like music coming from Convention Hall today.

Springsteen getting prepped for the "Magic Tour"

Some people just can't Asbury out of their system - and here's one.

http://www.asburyboardwalk.com/shopbruce.htm

Springsteen Tickets....Garden and Meadowlands

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

EAST RUTHERFORD — Bruce Springsteen fans in New Jersey will be busy punching digits and clicking online.

Tickets go on sale for two concerts at Continental Airlines Arena at 9 a.m. Seats range from $65 to $95.

The October ninth and tenth shows feature Springsteen with the E Street Band.

Concertgoers can also buy tickets for October 17th and 18th performances at Madison Square Garden.

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster Charge-By-Phone at 201 507-8900 and ticketmaster.com.

Springsteen's new disc, "Magic,'' is due out on October second.

Check back with us at http://www.asburyboardwalk.com/shopbruce.htm

Summer Loving,,,Summer Nights...

I was going to talk about the end of the summer last week. But why?

The weather continues to be great, and I when everyone leaves Labor Day, some if us feel that summer actual begins. Traffic is gone, bike riding is great, are "secret" food stops are cleared out.

As long as the weather remains. So far, so good.

Back to summer love. That old song comes back from Oliva Newton-John.
Ok, I just read the lyrics. Didn't realize how it read.

Summer Nights

(Casey/Jacobs)

Summer lovin', had me a blast
Summer lovin', happened so fast
Met a girl crazy for me
Met a boy cute as can be
Summer days drifting away
To, uh oh, those summer nights

Well-a, well-a, well-a, uh!
Tell me more, tell me more
Did you get very far?
Tell me more, tell me more
Like does he have a car?

She swam by me, she got a cramp
He ran by me, got my suit damp
Saved her life, she nearly drowned
He showed off splashing around
Summer sun, something's begun
But, uh oh, those summer nights

Well-a, well-a, well-a, uh!
Tell me more, tell me more
Was it love at first sight?
Tell me more, tell me more
Did she put up a fight?

Took her bowling in the arcade
We went strolling; drank lemonade
We made out under the dock
We stayed out till ten o'clock
Summer fling don't mean a thing
But, uh oh, those summer nights

Tell me more, tell me more
But you don't gotta brag
Tell me more, tell me more
'Cause he sounds like a drag

He got friendly holding my hand
Well, she got friendly down in the sand
He was sweet, just turned eighteen
Well, she was good, you know what I mean
Summer heat, boy and girl meet
But, uh oh, those summer nights

Tell me more, tell me more
How much dough did he spend?
Tell me more, tell me more
Could she get me a friend?

It turned colder; that's where it ends
So I told her we'd still be friends
Then we made our true love vow
Wonder what she's doin' now
Summer dreams ripped at the seams
But, oh, those summer nights
Tell me more, tell me more.