One of the great perks of getting involved with City Lifestyle has been familiarizing myself with the community, culture and businesses in and around Long Branch. I have been exploring, if you will. And with that activity being the theme of this month’s issue, I might as well share some of the findings I’ve come across while learning about this vibrant city. Maybe you’ve heard of some of these people, places and things, but maybe you haven’t. And if you have tips about hidden gems or pockets of Long Branch that should be highlighted, please reach out.
SUMMER READING
Take a step back in time and revisit the Long Branch of Robert Pinsky, a 3-time U.S. poet laureate and finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for poetry. His memoir, "Jersey Breaks" connects the roots of his poetry with the voices of his neighborhood and was hailed by none other than Bruce Springsteen: "Truly the voice of the Jersey Shore."
HAIL TO THE CHIEFS
There's history behind the gates on Ocean Avenue where the Church of the Presidents sits. Some have surely become numb to the fact that 7 U.S. presidents worshiped in this shingle-style Episcopal church, but it is a remarkable piece of local and American history. While the site has been closed for many years, restoration efforts are ongoing.
ARTISTS' ALLEY
As a community, Long Branch has a strong creative pull. The Long Branch Arts and Cultural Center leans fully into that space, providing a stage for makers to showcase their work. In fact, this summer, the center will host "The history of lifesaving in Long Branch," which explores surf culture and lifesaving acts in this city.
IT SHORE SOUNDS GOOD
It's hard to put a finger on it, but there is something about this area that is very fertile for musicians, and it goes far beyond Springsteen. Take Carlotta Schmidt, who we featured in these pages a few months ago. The Long Branch native is gigging regularly (you can catch her occasionally at 21A), and she recently performed with 10-time Grammy winner Brandi Carlile.