Asbury Park, NJ October 2025

Glenn Alexander rocking with his daughter Oria Alexander

ARTS + CULTURE

AFTER SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY CALLED IT A DAY, HIS RIGHTHAND MAN CONTINUES TO PLAY

Harvesting Joy, Celebrating Community & Music in Asbury Park

October is here, and fall is in the air! As leaves begin to drop from the branches and the weather changes, Asbury Park and our neighboring towns are gearing up for the holiday season. Whether you celebrate with quiet gatherings or plan lavish parties, the change in seasons always brings the gift of family togetherness. Whether your family is your friends or your friends are your family, getting together to enjoy each other's company is the key to happiness and a heart filled with joy.

As we look back on an amazing musical September in Asbury Park, with the Sea. Hear. Now. festival still ringing in our ears, and all the fantastic venues that bring music and life to the boardwalk, I can’t help but feel grateful to live in a city that celebrates life through music and art.  The musicians and the people who bring this music to us with such energy and enthusiasm fill our hearts with love and peace. We turn off our smartphones and listen to the waves of music and the lyrics that speak to our souls. Music and the artists are the soul of this city, and I wish to thank every one of them!

Walking the streets of our seashore towns, enjoying the many restaurants and shops, fills us with love for our environment and community, making life on the Jersey Shore the best of all worlds. While I love the many countries and places I visit, being here in New Jersey fills me with great pride and a special kind of love for my community.

I am truly blessed to be here and to bring you the Asbury Park City Lifestyle Magazine, showcasing the great businesses, community nonprofit organizations and local stories that make this town second to none! Please remember to shop locally for the holidays, as the stores, boutiques, and restaurants are our lifeline to prosperity and community growth.

I wish all our readers a very safe and healthy October as we get ready for a fun month ahead.

Asbury Park City Lifestyle Magazine would like to sincerely apologize to Suzanne Martene for not properly crediting her as the photographer for several images featured in last month’s City Scene. We greatly value the work of local photographers and always strive to provide accurate attributions. We regret this oversight and extend our gratitude to Suzanne for her contribution.

Warm regards,

JIMI BONARO, PUBLISHER

@ASBURYPARKCITYLIFESTYLE

October 2025

PUBLISHER

Jimi Bonaro | jimi.bonaro@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Ed Condran | ed.condran@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Debra Pascali-Bonaro | debrapascalibonaro@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Angelica Niedermeyer | 2angelicanei@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Christine Smith

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Purple Stones Spa

Experience the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation at Purple Stones Spa. With a team of highly-trained and licensed massage therapists, the Ocean Township spa offer an exceptional range of massage services tailored to meet specific needs.

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Estates by Vallario

Estates By Vallario is where dreams and luxury unite to redefine living spaces. As premier home builders and renovation artisans, EBV specialize in crafting bespoke residences and transforming existing properties into works of art.

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

It's going to be a busy autumn at the Hard Rock with a loaded entertainment schedule, which includes the final Foreigner show with vocalist Kelly Hanson.  There will also be revised menus at the casino's varied restaurants and new promotions.

THE BEAT GOES ON for Glenn Alexander

ARTICLE BY ED CONDRAN

It's not easy replacing an icon. When Ronnie James Dio succeeded Ozzy Osborne as Black Sabbath's vocalist in 1980, the metal icon was not initially accepted.

"It took awhile to be embraced," Dio said during a 2009 interview. "But early on in Philadelphia, somebody unfurled a banner, which said, 'Welcome the Reverend Ronnie James Dio.' It was fine after that."

Part of the reason Dio succeeded was due to the fact that he was different from Osbourne and he enabled Sabbath to morph.

Glenn Alexander can relate to the late icon.

When Alexander took over as guitarist for Southside Johnny in 2007, he replaced Bobby Bandiera, who is Jersey Shore rock royalty.

"It was hard initially," Alexander recalled from his Scotch Plains home. "The fans hated me early on. Bobby had been there for 24-years. People were giving me the finger and spitting at me because they wanted Bobby."

The charismatic Bandiera was an integral part of the Southside band, particularly during the early years back in the '70s. However, the show had to go on and Southside Johnny Lyon told

Alexander what to do as he dealt with the difficult early days. Prior to Southside's annual New Year's Eve show at the Basie in 2007, he laid it out for Alexander.

"Johnny said, 'You're not Bobby Bandiera but you bring something totally different to this band,' Alexander recalled. "Johnny believed that I changed the band for the better. It was a little rough at first. But I think I was part of one of the better Southside lineups. We worked together. I was there to serve Johnny. That wasn't the way it was before I arrived. We became a good working band for Johnny. It took me a minute to fully embrace it but Southside was ready for a change. I was told by some people not to join the band. I was told Johnny can't function without Bobby since it's the Bobby Bandera band with Southside Johnny. But when I joined the band, Johnny took control and he was so great to work with."

"We're up there tearing it up," Alexander said. "I love playing with Shadowland and with Oria."

Oria Alexander, 30, has been around music her entire life. "It's so much fun doing this with my dad," Oria Alexander said.

Her father concurs. "It's great and it's always been so much fun," Alexander said. "We started doing gigs when Oria was super young. By the time she was 13 she started writing songs. I was like, 'Man, we should record these songs. We made her first album when she was 16. It's been a fun life in music."

“It's been amazing working with Southside Johnny and now I work with my daughter. I couldn't be happier.”

— Glenn Alexander

The show went on until December of 2024. Lyon retired from touring after the group's final show in Alexandria, Virginia.

Alexander, 67, who has played with the Max Weinberg 7 on "Late Night With Conan O'Brien," Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Levon Helm and La Bamba's Big Band, among other recording artists, pivoted.

The veteran guitar hero records and plays with his band, Shadowland and his vocalist daughter Oria.

Alexander, who runs the jazz and blues department at Sarah Lawrence, left his native Kansas for New York City in 1987.

"I was born and raised in Kansas and there was no education or culture," Alexander said. "I moved to New York City and learned from some of the greatest jazz musicians. It's been amazing working with Southside Johnny and now I work with my daughter. I couldn't be happier."

GLENN ALEXANDER'S OCTOBER DATES:

Oct. 3 - Hopewell Fare, 6 p.m.,  Hopewell

Oct. 4 - Transparent Clinch Gallery, 4 p.m.,Asbury Park  October 18 – Hailey’s Harp & Pub, 8:30 p.m., Metuchen  Glenn & Oria Band , with Jukes Bassist

John Conte & drummer Gary Dates

October 26 – Pig Gig 10 FCF Cancer Benefit, 2 p.m., Italian American Hall, Scotch Plains Glenn & Oria Band, John Conte & Gary Dates

October Events

October 4 : Asbury Park Zombie Walk th

October 5 : 6th Annual “HOWL”-O-WIENER WALK! th

October 11 : Asbury Park Whiskey and Spirits Fest th October 12 : Asbury Park Vintage Market th

October 25 & 26 : Asbury Halloween Festival th th

Asbury Park Home Prices Asbury Park Home Prices (Average Since 1/1/25 as of 8/26/25)

Single Family Home: $827,010 Condo: $895,099

MEGHAN CARROLL, ABR, PSA, RENE, SRS REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®

NJ RE License #: 1642729

Cell: 732-508-7402

Email: mcarroll@remax.net

URL: www.MCsellsByTheSea.com

Meghan’s Local Favorites Meghan’s Local Favorites ☕ Coffee: Steady Hand Cafe

Favorite New Spot: Mutiny Beach

Cocktail Spot: AP Rooftop

Dog-Friendly Hangout: AP Dog Beach

Local Gem: Wooden Walls murals

Bringing Southern Hospitality to the Jersey Shore Find Your Home Here:

New Jersey Circle of Excellence Winner 2021-2024

New Jersey Circle of Excellence Winner 2021-2024

RE/MAX 100% Club Award 2019-2024

RE/MAX 100% Club Award 2019-2024

KRISTEN ANN CARR FUND aims for a cure

When Kristen Ann Carr was diagnosed with sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, in 1992, not much was known about the disease which attacks bone and soft tissue.

Carr, a vibrant young woman, passed away at 21. However, her family and friends have made a difference in her name by establishing the Kristen Ann Carr Fund, which provides grants for cancer research and seeks to improve all aspects of cancer patient life with an emphasis on adolescents and young adults.

Carr's boyfriend, Michael Solomon isn't only keeping his loved one's name alive but helping others survive courtesy of the foundation. Solomon, who is a Board Member and the Fund Administrator of the Carr Fund, and his colleagues have raised more than $30 million in the battle against sarcoma.

"When we started out in this field, there were very few sarcoma experts anywhere and very little information known," Solomon said. "But there are certain things that used to happen that don't happen anymore. There were a lot of amputations, and some of the research that we did helped them understand that that was not an effective way at stopping the disease progression, so that that doesn't happen as often."

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The Carr Fund continues to raise money in the fight against sarcomas

ARTICLE BY ED CONDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN MAZUR AND MARC LEVINE

The Carr Fund's next event is the 32nd annual, "A Night to Remember" gala slated for November 15 at Lafayette in New York City, which will feature a special guest musical performance, a silent auction and raffle and unique items and experiences.

Expect culinary treats since guests at prior events have wined and dined on pairings from some of Manhattan's most prestigious restaurants, including Nobu and Tribeca Grill.

The Fund was Solomon’s inspiration for Musicians On Call, a nonprofit he co-founded in 1999 that brings live music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities.

A number of icons have performed at Carr events, such as Bruce Springsteen, Jackson Browne and Eddie Vedder. "I would say they're even, at times, activists, more than just altruists," Solomon said.

Expect the Carr Fund to continue on for many years, according to Solomon. "The person who was doing major gifts at Memorial Sloan Kettering said usually these organizations start after somebody dies... and then they peter out," Solomon said. "Here we are 31 years later... and we're still going.

There is still plenty of work to be done in Carr's name. Solomon, who dated Carr for four years, recalls how vibrant his girlfriend was before the sarcoma robbed her of vitality.

"She was funny and sparkly and snarky and had a lot of energy," Solomon said. "When she walked in a room, people knew it. She was very outspoken and irreverent and fun."

The Carr fund is there and hopefully will make a difference for those with sarcoma so they can once again live in a carefree manner.

For more information about the Night to Remember gala, which is slated for November 15 at Lafayette, 380 Lafayette Street, visit https://empireeventsgroup.com/portfolio/ upcoming-a-night-to-remember-2025

According to the International Interdisciplinary Journal of the American Cancer Society, over the past decade, remarkable improvements have been seen in oncology. However, more research is needed regarding sarcoma, particularly soft tissue sarcoma. Hopefully the disease won't be so mysterious.

KARMA KARMA KARMA Community

A LOCAL GRASSROOTS EFFORT IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA SMITH, SAINT STEPHENS' CHURCH

What began as a grassroots effort to bring essential items to families in need has evolved into a powerful, multi-state nonprofit organization. Community Karma was founded in 2005 in San Francisco by Celia Cattani, who, along with friends from her corporate network, wanted to channel their professional skills into meaningful community work. They began with simple but vital initiatives like backpack, toy, and toiletry drives, supporting smaller nonprofits that were often limited by grant stipulations and under-resourced infrastructure.

When Cattani relocated to Asbury Park in 2015, she brought that same spirit of service with her. Cattani quickly became involved with local initiatives, including the Asbury Park Toy Drive led by Connie Breech. When Breech’s group stepped away in 2022, Cattani stepped in to ensure the effort would continue. That transition marked the beginning of Community Karma's official expansion into New Jersey, and since then, the organization has grown in both size and scope.

Community Karma has become a vital part of the support network in Asbury Park. Rather than duplicating existing services, Cattani and her team act as a logistical and administrative bridge for other small nonprofits, helping distribute goods, organize events, and provide resources to families. Their collaborative approach allows them to partner with organizations like Mercy Center, CPC Integrated Health, the Asbury Book Cooperative, The Center, and the Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park. These partnerships allow Community Karma to offer vital support without overextending their own resources.

Like Community Karma, the Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park strengthens its impact through strategic partnerships with organizations that align with its mission to address the unmet needs of vulnerable youth in Asbury Park. "Community Karma, in particular, demonstrates how these collaborations broaden our collective reach, enabling both organizations to support even more youth than we could on our own," President of the Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park Deena Cohen said. "It’s the generous sharing

of ideas, resources, and manpower that makes this partnership so impactful and effective in benefiting the children we serve."

Since taking over the work of the Asbury Park Toy Drive in 2022, Community Karma has seen a significant increase in demand. In just one year, the number of families pre-registering for support grew from 200-300 to over 500, now with a larger database of over 1,000 families. This increased need has made it more important than ever to coordinate with other community-based organizations to reduce duplicated efforts and maximize resources. Community Karma works closely with Mercy Center, since both organizations serve families in the same community. “In this day of declining resources and rising need, we are happy to partner with Community Karma to ensure we reach the most people without duplicating our efforts,” President & CEO of Mercy Center Kim Guadagno said. “We will continue to support CK in every way possible to achieve Mercy Center’s vision of ending generational poverty.”

Community Karma also partners with many local churches, including St. Stephen AME Zion Church and Church of Philadelphia - Asbury Park, to engage volunteers and spread the word about resources available to families. “St. Stephen’s partnership with Community Karma has been truly a blessing,” St. Stephen AME Zion Church Pastor Quavon Newton said. “It’s more than just collaboration; it’s a shared mission to love, serve, and uplift. Together, we’ve been able to address real needs, restore hope, and remind our community that they matter.”

While Community Karma initially focused on seasonal programs, they now aim to expand year-round efforts, responding to unmet needs in the community. With the economic challenges facing many households, Cattani has emphasized the need for consistent support, including a push for a $20,000-$30,000 increase in general fundraising and the launch of a recurring donor program.

Despite operating with minimal overhead, Community Karma maintains high standards for financial transparency. Celia shared that 95 cents of every donated dollar goes directly to programs. They are compliant with IRS nonprofit standards and are working on updating their Guide Star and Charity Navigator profiles to increase visibility. Community Karma programs are primarily funded by individual donors through in-kind, cash, and event contributions. She mentioned they are seeking to grow their donor base and diversify funding sources to ensure sustainability, particularly when the need in the community is rising. Cattani noted that while they have received grant funding and proceeds from the Stone Pony 50th anniversary T-shirt sales, they are actively applying for more grants to reduce dependence on program-specific fundraising.

Key volunteers have played a central role in the organization's success. Gloriann Gonzalez, an Asbury Park native and recent high school graduate, starts college this fall at Rowan University with plans to study veterinary medicine. She discussed

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Community Karma's approach to community service, emphasizing its effectiveness in building trust and reducing stigma compared to traditional nonprofit services. She highlighted how Community Karma's presence and community-focused events make it more accessible and appealing to recipients, particularly in Asbury Park's Hispanic community. Gonzalez also shared her experience networking with charter schools and Hispanic churches to promote the organization's services and noted that clear communication of quantifiable impact helps secure donations from potential supporters.

Cattani discussed placing the first $6,000 order for school supplies for the 2025 Backpack Drive. She noted that while schools are becoming more electronic, basic supplies like pencils, composition books, and backpacks are still necessary.

Community Karma's model is not just about giving goods—it's about building trust and eliminating stigma. The organization is intentional about creating an accessible and welcoming environment. Families aren’t just handed a backpack or toy; they are seen, heard, and connected to a larger web of support by volunteers who are also their neighbors.

The nonprofit has also caught the attention of unexpected allies. Monmouth County native Ja’Sir Taylor, cornerback for the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers, discovered Community Karma through a Google search and has been a generous donor since 2023.

Community Karma will be honored at the upcoming Carousel Awards on October 30, 2025. Cattani is preparing for what promises to be a busy and celebratory season. She’s also exploring new fundraising

“Community Karma’s model is not just about giving goods—it’s about building trust and eliminating stigma.”

ideas and engaging volunteers more strategically, including working to expand the organization’s board from three to five members within the next few years.

Christina Smith, a local advocate and connector, is helping to coordinate efforts among other Asbury Park foundations. Her vision is to bring together executive directors and board members across Asbury Park to share resources and strengthen collaboration.

Through thoughtful partnerships, creative fundraising, and an unwavering commitment to equity and kindness, Community Karma continues to grow its presence and deepen its impact. Their vision isn’t about becoming the biggest name in charity; it’s about showing up where it counts, when it counts, and for whom it counts. According to Cattani, "It’s a big team effort, and when we show up together, we have an amazing impact."

Community Karma has joined forces again with Asbury Park Little League and St. Stephen AME Zion Church to continue to expand the Asbury Park Holiday Toy Drive! With continued support from Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park and Church of Philadelphia, our goal this year is to support 1000 families in the Asbury Park area with holiday gifts for the children.

FINANCIAL DONATIONS

Given the large number of families we will be supporting, monetary donations are critical to ensure each family's needs are met, as well as providing appropriate holiday goodies during our distribution party! You can donate by visiting our site www.communitykarma.org

To learn more, get involved visit their website www.communitykarma.org and follow Community Karma on both Facebook and Instagram @communitykarma.

Stacked for Fall

THE SEASON’S BEST SANDWICHES

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

There’s something deeply satisfying about a well-made sandwich—especially when it comes together with minimal effort but delivers big on flavor. As the season changes and appetites grow heartier, fall is the perfect time to get creative with ingredients tucked between slices of crusty bread or buttery rolls. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your lunch routine, enjoy comforting flavors and bold textures, or impress guests with a no-fuss meal, these easy-to-make sandwiches strike the perfect balance between simple and sensational.

Savory Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream

INGREDIENTS

• 2 slices crusty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, French bread)

• 6 oz roast beef

• 2 slices provolone cheese

• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting)

• 2 ½ tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp horseradish sauce

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Arugula

• Cherry tomato

• Caramelized onions

INSTRUCTIONS

Toast the bread. Butter one side of each slice and toast in a skillet until golden. Heat roast beef briefly in a pan. To make the spread, mix mayo, horseradish sauce, and Dijon. Spread on the toasted bread. Layer roast beef, cheese, and broil briefly to melt. Add arugula, tomato, and caramelized onions if using. Top with the second slice of bread.

Sweet & Spicy Grilled Chicken Sandwich

INGREDIENTS

• 1 grilled chicken breast

• 2 slices pepper jack cheese

• 2 slices cooked bacon

• 1 tbsp fruit jam (fig, raspberry, or jalapeño recommended)

• A handful of fresh arugula

• 3–4 cherry tomatoes (halved)

• 1 tbsp garlic aioli

• 1 brioche bun (toasted)

INSTRUCTIONS

Lightly butter the inside of the bun and toast in a skillet or oven until golden brown. Spread a layer of garlic aioli on the bottom bun. Add the sliced grilled chicken breast. Place the pepper jack cheese over the hot chicken to slightly melt it. Layer on the crispy bacon slices. Add halved cherry tomatoes and a small handful of arugula. Spread the jam on the top bun. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

• 3 oz goat cheese

• Fresh arugula

• ¼ cup caramelized onions

• 1 pear, thinly sliced

• Honey, to taste

• Butter for toasting the bread

• Rotisserie chicken breast thinly sliced

• Sourdough bread, buttered (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Spread goat cheese on one side of the bread. Top the cheese with arugula, caramelized onions, sliced pears and chicken breast. Drizzle with honey. Top with remaining slice of sourdough bread. Use a griddle or panini press to heat the sandwich.

PARADISE IS JUST A DRIVE AWAY IN WEST VIRGINIA

A River Runs Through It

There is something for everyone at the New River, which is shrouded by lush greenery.

After my son Milo's baseball teammate learned that he had visited his 50th state shortly after reaching his 16th birthday, my third child was asked about his favorite destination. After Milo waxed about his unforgettable experiences on Hawaii's Big Island, catching 22 pounds of King salmon off the coast of Ketchikan and skiing down the slopes of Schweitzer Mountain in Northern Idaho, the expectation was it would be one of the more exotic locales.

However, Milo's friend was slack jawed after the answer was the New River Gorge.

"It's the most magical place," Milo said. "It's beautiful and there's so much you can do."

Milo wasn't exaggerating. There is no place like the New River Gorge.  The idyllic but under the radar destination became a national park in 2020 but many folks have no idea that such an oasis exists.

It's easy to miss this sleepy section of Southwestern West Virginia, just off of Fayetteville, which is one of the coolest small towns in America, according to Budget Travel. Each of my four children can't get enough of that area due to the New River Gorge and the various activities they've enjoyed on numerous trips.

When my son Eddie was just 5-years old, he and his sister Jillian, who was 8-years old, and I embarked on a three-day, four-night run down the New River. Their lives changed during that unforgettable journey. They each pledged that the breathtaking tributary, which like the Nile flows South to North, is where they left their hearts.

While most of the folks who head toward the Upper Gauley and the Lower New River are adrenaline junkies aiming for the rugged Class V rapids, the more mellow excursions that wind through select parts of the West Virginia waterways are perfect for young paddlers and beginners. For families, the adventures often seem like a soothing balm for their overly stimulated souls. It's a welcome opportunity to bond amid Mother

Nature's picture-perfect work, outside the reach of screens and cell phones.

Back in the day we experienced wild and wonderful West Virginia with Adventures on the Gorge. But this time out the encounters were different thanks to another outfitter.

Thanks to our guides at Ace Adventure Resort, (www. aceraft.com) my sons Milo and Eddie and I had no issues navigating the rivers and experiencing the zip lines and rock climbing and rappelling on the Gorge.

We slipped on our life jackets and helmets and headed out for a 15-minute introduction to our kayaks, also called duckies, and instruction on how to properly paddle. It's never a good idea to venture down rapids without a professional, since the Upper New River can get dicey. Plus, guides offer critical tips in case of trouble. For instance, if you become a "swimmer," what you're dubbed when the water's force knocks you out of your kayak, the guides teach you to keep your feet up to avoid entrapment or bumps and bruises caused by rocks.

We enjoyed an exhilarating run down the New River. Eagles, falcons and hawks soared above the pristine landscape, while deer frolicked unfettered on the riverbanks. It's always a new experience on the New River.

The class III and IV rapids on the Lower New River are adrenaline inducing and refreshing. Participants for the 12-mile journey must be 12 years old. A hot lunch breaks up the trip and is served on the riverbanks.

The experience is a blast particularly when a ducky war commences. The battle starts when the group takes a break from paddling while in deep water. The kayak is turned upside down and two daredevils climb up and stand on it. They proceed to dance on the boat until someone falls back into the drink.

Milo and Eddie split their share of wars. It seemed as if the "Loser" enjoyed landing in the water more so than the "Winner," who stood victorious in the sun.

Each of my four children can't get enough of the New River Gorge. “ ”

No trip down the New River is complete without a stop at "Jump Rock," 15-foot boulder, which was utilized for a Mountain Dew commercial a generation ago. Eddie and Milo did a flip while in mid-air, while others went the conventional feet first route, such as their little sister Jane.

When hitting our final rapid, dubbed "Surprise," Milo failed to paddle. "Surprise" batters adventurers with unrelenting waves. Before you know it, you're knocked from the kayak and you're in the water.

It's a much different scenario when you're knocked in the water while on a run in the Gauley River. Every September the water levels are raised on the Gauley. My experience on the unforgiving river is indelible. While navigating Pillow Rock a decade ago, our leader took a different path, hero's trail. When disaster strikes the captain is supposed to go down with the ship. However,

our captain went up with his ship as he went high-side. All the participants fell out of the vessel. I was sucked down in an eight-foot whirlpool. As I tried to surface, I found myself under a boat while running out of air. I finally reached the surface and gasped. That was a heck of a wake up call. Our group didn't come close to capsizing again as we paddled through ten challenging Class V rapids. It's a bucket list adventure and there's nothing like the Gauley River East of Colorado. It takes some guts but the experience is a lifelong memory and it's especially fun having that run with members of your family since they understand what it takes to travel down the Gauley.

And then there are the ziplines. The Tree Canopy tour is sublime. There is nothing like flying through the trees on ten ziplines. It's so serene looking down at the forest.

It's a two-hour experience you'll never forget. Give yourself about three hours to play at the Timber Trek zip, which features five different courses with varying degrees of difficulty, just like a ski resort. Participants walk along logs and wooden blocks, which are strung together with rope while up about 20 feet in the trees. You're tethered by a cable. It's not a big deal if you have a fear of heights, as long as you focus on what you need to accomplish. Eddie and Milo had no issues with the double black diamond course, which requires agility, strength and courage. Kids are adept at the Timber Trek. My daughter Jane at the age of 8 had no issues as she smiled throughout the experience.

Tackling the terrifying tarzan swings in the middle of the forest, No problem for Eddie and Milo. Climbing an incredibly shaky ladder, which requires some upper body strength. No big deal for either.

That upper body strength came in handy while rock climbing. One of the New River Gorge's best kept secrets is how great the rock climbing is throughout the region. Folks love the experience due to the incredibly solid Nuttall Sandstone. Since Eddie trains in an enclosed rock climbing gym, watching him scale the 80 foot wall

was akin to witnessing an indoor cat experiencing the freedom of the outdoors.

Rappel Ram's Head, a 160-foot rappel with a stunning view of the river and the Keeney Brother Rapids below is thrilling and liberating. It brought me back nearly a decade ago to when Milo, then 11-years old, who is typically fearless, was reluctant to step back and down the bluff. When I asked Milo if he was scared, he simply said, "Yes." However, once he learned to trust, it was all downhill for him. His sister Jane, who was then just 7-years old, overcame her fears and quickly rappelled down Ram's Head.

The comfortable cabins along the New River Gorge at Ace Adventure Resort are spacious and include kitchens, hot tubs and radiant floor heat.

There is something for everyone at the New River Gorge, which is shrouded by lush greenery. The unique locale offers activities, which range from unique to exhilarating.

For more information: Ace Adventure Resorts, 800787-3982, www.https://aceraft.com

Adventure on the Gorge, 877-312-0423,https://www. adventuresonthegorge.com

The adventures often seem like a soothing balm for overly stimulated souls. “ ”

stAy CONN e C te D

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

OCTOBER 1ST

Melvins/Redd Kross

Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue | 7:00 PM

A fantastic double bill with the under the radar Redd Kross. The Los Angeles band is one of the finest power-pop bands of all time. Sludge rockers The Melvins offer a very different sonic flavor but it’s worth tasting.

OCTOBER 2ND

The Raveonettes

The Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Avenue, N. | 7:00 PM

The noisy-pop rock from the Raveonettes draws from 50s’ rock and roll and ‘60s girl groups. The harmonies and melodies, particularly from such albums as 2003’s “The Chain Gang of Love” and 2009’s “In and Out of Control” are intoxicating.

OCTOBER 4TH

Seether/Daughtry

Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue | 5:30 PM

The final summerstage show of the season. It’s a hard rock double bill with the intense Seether and the charismatic Daughtry.

OCTOBER 11TH

Young Gun Silver Fox

The Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Avenue, N. | 7:00 PM

The London-based soft rock duo, comprised of singer-songwriters Andy Platts and Shawn Lee will showcase songs from its latest album, “Pleasure.”

OCTOBER 19TH

White Reaper

House of Independents, 572 Cookman Avenue | 7:00 PM

There’s no band quite like Kentucky garage rockers White Reaper, who deliver catchy and inspired tunes. Check out the band’s latest single, “Honestly.”

OCTOBER 23RD

Medium Linda Shields

Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, 1200 Ocean Avenue | 7:00 PM

The Jersey Shore medium will put on an evening full of surprises.

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

How To Stay Festive And Healthy? Sure Thing

Halloween is typically filled to the brim with salt, sugar and carbs. It can be hard to stay on the nutrition wagon during spooky season, but there are plenty of fun ways to add a festive spin to favorite healthy dishes.

pumpkin FRUIT BOWL

With luck finding a melon or watermelon at the store, simply carve it like a jack-o-lantern and make the mouth large enough to have other sliced fruit emerging, such as cut pineapple, sliced grapes and apple chunks. Along the side, peel mini oranges and add a green stem to mimic pumpkins.

spooky CHARCUTERIE

These fan favorite boards can easily be kept healthy with some additions. Make any treat spooky with edible eyeballs. Adding them to a small snack such as mini bell peppers or grapes and strawberries is a fun way to stay on theme without sacrificing a healthy streak. Eyeball salami rolls also can be added, starting first with a green olive in the center, surrounded by a roll of mozzarella cheese and then surrounded by salami or even prosciutto.

stuffed PEPPERS

This fall staple easily can be incorporated into a fall gathering or Halloween night by carving jacko-lantern faces in orange peppers, and resuming a favorite recipe from there. Serving bread on the side? Use a skull or pumpkin shaped cookie cutter to re-shape it.

ghostly DIP

Hummus and pitas can be made scary in no time. Use a ghost shaped cookie cutter to shape pita bread, lightly toast and serve with red pepper hummus, which is usually orange in color.

jack-o-lantern VEGGIE TRAY

The easiest bet for a quick and healthy Halloween treat? You can’t go wrong with a veggie tray shaped like a jack-o-lantern. Use baby carrots as the base, and cucumber or celery to shape the mouth and stem. The eyes? Two round bowls of veggie dip.

In just two years, Mateo Malek has sold over 60 homes— proof that he’s bringing more than hustle to the table. With a Business Administration degree from Rutgers and a background in finance, marketing, and management, Mateo helps clients navigate the market with clarity and confidence. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, he’s known for being responsive, transparent, and always focused on helping you make the right move.

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Mateo Malek delivers results and a client experience that stands out. Ready to work with someone who truly has your back?

Call or Email Mateo Today: 732-804-3990

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FEATURED ASBURY PARK LISTING:

Prime Investment Opportunity in Asbury

Fully updated & Occupied, 6-unit property just 2 blocks from the beach:

5-family front house + 2-bed rear cottage

Granite counters & stainless appliances

Newer roof & HWWBB systems

Strong rental history & long-term upside

Turnkey. Cash flowing. Walkable to the beach.

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732-245-7665