ASBURY PARK, N.J., June 22, 2006 – Spectators at Asbury Park’s recent “Sensational Sixties Celebration” got the low down on the Elvis-inspired World Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich-Eating Contest. Ian “The Invader” Hickman, of Sterling, Va., walked (or waddled) off with the big prize of $300 and an Elvis Teddy Bear after consuming 14 of the sandwiches, or just over three pounds, in seven minutes and 37 seconds.

SUMMER ON THE BEACH AND BOARDWALK TAKES OFF IN ASBURY PARK

Boardwalk Stores, Eateries and Added Public Services Set the Stage for Another Record-Breaking Year

ASBURY PARK, N.J., July 21, 2006 ­­– Each year, for the past two years, the sale of beach badges in Asbury Park has more than doubled, and if the start of the 2006 season is any indication, this will be another record-breaking year. With the Oceanfront Asbury waterfront redevelopment now in full swing, luxury condominiums emerging along the shore, and word-of-mouth advertising from residents and visitors alike, the 2006 summer season is generating tremendous excitement.

“This already has become a banner year for the Asbury Park beachfront,” said Larry Fishman, chief operating officer of Asbury Partners, LLC, developers of the Oceanfront Asbury project. “Last year we had visitors from all over the world coming to see the revitalization taking place here. This year’s retailers are reporting significant increases over last season, and the progress is even more visible on the beach and boardwalk.”

“Asbury Park has one of the most beautiful and affordable beaches,” noted Garrett Giberson, director of public works. “Our seasonal and daily beach passes offer some of the lowest rates in the State. We have abundant free parking, which is something that is rare for a beach community.”“Newly renovated amenities, boardwalk restaurants and shops, in addition to round-the-clock security, outdoor concerts and a full entertainment schedule are now in full swing.” said Uri Kahanow, director of retail for Asbury Partners, LLC

“We have a unique family-friendly environment that has something for everyone,” agreed Joe Bongiovanni, beach safety supervisor for Asbury Park. “This City is truly returning to its former glory days as The Jewel of the Jersey Shore.”

Improvements at Every Turn
In addition to fostering the return and expansion of more than a dozen boardwalk retailers – including gaming arcades, ice cream vendors, art and souvenir stands, restaurants and cafes – Asbury Partners continues to improve the boardwalk amenities. This year, they renovated restrooms in the First Avenue Pavilion, which also houses several restaurants, shops, and summertime eateries. The Restaurant at the Howard Johnson’s Pavilion has also been renovated and is under new management.

The City of Asbury Park has implemented many improvements as well. “Beach Tech 2800, a state-of-the-art beach cleaning machine, and a new tractor are keeping our beaches sparkling,” said Tom Gilmour, director of economic development and the Urban Enterprise Zone program in Asbury Park, which contributed towards the purchase. “It is an indication of the City’s effort to invest in one of its prime assets. The new equipment has given the Department of Public Works the ability to maintain the reputation of the Asbury Park beaches as world renowned for their beauty.” In the off-season, the tractor can be used by the City for leaf collection and snow plowing.

“We now have three officers patrolling the beach and boardwalk area full-time and have additional mobile and bicycle patrols available,” said Deputy Police Chief Mark Kinmon. “The Asbury Park Police Department is quickly responding to address the needs of a growing city.”

The Beaches: Best Bargain on the Jersey Shore
Of course, for most visitors, the sun, sand and surf are the greatest attractions. “Asbury Park’s beautiful sandy beaches are perhaps the best bargain on the Jersey Shore,” noted Giberson. On Monday through Friday, daily beach badges are only $4/person, and children under 12, accompanied by an adult, are free. Daily weekend rates are only $5/person, and seasonal passes can be had for $15/year for young people ages 13 to 17 and seniors over age 62; $40 for adults.

The beach is open, with lifeguards daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on First, Third, Fifth and Seventh Avenues. “Many people don’t know that we also have a surfing beach, in addition to our bathing beaches,” said Bongiovanni. “The Eighth Avenue Beach is devoted to surfers and has lifeguards on duty.” The City is continuing its Surf Rescue Program, training members of the Fire Dept. to guard the beaches during after-hours.

Visitors planning a day trip from other parts of the State will benefit from the partnership between Asbury Park and New Jersey Transit to offer round-trip tickets that include a free day at the beach.

“Every year since the redevelopment began, summers at Asbury Park have gotten better and better,” said Kahanow. “From the renovation of the historic mile-long boardwalk in 2004, to the opening of the Casino walkway and the opening of the boardwalk pavilions in 2005 – the impact is immediately visible. We’re expecting this one to be a truly great season.”