Asbury Park, NJ July 2026

Happy 250th to America and we tip our hat to our Chamber of Commerce

IT'S A HISTORIC BIRTHDAY FOR OUR COUNTRY AND WE ARE THANKFUL FOR THE ASBURY PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2026

250 Years of America is Reason to Celebrate

I remember celebrating in 1976 the country’s Bi-Centennial by the tall ships sail up the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty, watching from the Palisades! I was just a teenager, but I remember the feeling that the country was celebrating the pride of being an American. I felt that pride. That was 50 years ago! It's hard to believe how fast time flies by.  How many things have changed. For those of us who were here 50 years ago, now we are celebrating 250 years of American democracy. Even with all the flaws and challenges this country faces, we are still The United States of America, and I hold to that with pride.

I see things changing all the time. Some for the good, some not so good, but I know this country has been through many changes. We have been through wars, recessions, inflation and a pandemic and we always recover stronger. America is strong, resilient and it will always manage to fix itself.  In our 250th year as a country, it gives us the focus to move forward and make the country a better place for our children and grandchildren. I know some of us have doubts but if you look back in our history, on what has happened in the past 50 years, then look beyond that and realize just how much change this country has been through, it give me hope and the feeling that things will always get better as long as we all stay positive and strive for peace with ourselves.

On a more local note, I am happy to shine a spotlight this month on our own, Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce who work tirelessly to improve the businesses and bring together the business owners to a place of comradery and togetherness. I am proud to be a member of the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce and have found it to be one of the best parts of being a business owner in Asbury Park. Matthew Whelan and Paige White are amazing people, and I love to see the support they give to the community.

So as we celebrate the 4th of July 2026, I hope we all have a prosperous, healthy and strong year of business ahead and also, all of us in this community celebrate the wonderful country we live in together.

Pray for Peace,

JIMI BONARO, PUBLISHER @ASBURYPARKCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2026

PUBLISHER

Jimi Bonaro jimi.bonaro@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Ed Condran ed.condran@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Dina MFazio dinamfazio@gmail.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Jimi Bonaro jimi.bonaro@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Ashley O'Neill copybadass@gmail.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Debra Pascali-Bonaro debrapascalibonaro@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cover Photo, Lisa Ranno

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

inside the issue

Asbury Park's Driving Force

Zachariah Ivins

Assistant Vice President

Financial Advisor

Senior Portfolio Advisor

732.528.2701

zachariah.ivins@ml.com

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 2504 HIGHWAY 35 Manasquan, NEW JERSEY 08736

732.232.5538

advisor.ml.com/sites/ivins

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (MLPF&S) is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, and Member SIPC

MLPF&S is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation.

A Senior Portfolio Advisor can help clients pursue their objectives by managing on a discretionary basis custom investment strategies, selecting from a wide range of Merrill model portfolios and third-party investment strategies. © 2025 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. 7410498 Vault-BA11954 | MLWM-242-AD | 470944PM-0325 | 03/2025

city scene

1: Bobby Bandiera and surprise guest Southside Johnny at Elbow Room in Bradley Beach 2: Southside Johnny and Madelyn Snow, Owner of the Elbow Room 3: Christina Smith at The Center, A La Carte 2026 Convention Hall 4/23 Lights Camera Compassion! 4: Jimi Bonaro with Eileen Chapman at The Center, A La Carte 2026 Convention Hall 4/23 5: Sunrise on the Boards 6: Zachariah Ivins with Michael Arvelo, Mingling at the start of the evening. 7: Glenn Alexander, Tony Pallagrosi, Aria Alexander

business monthly

New York Life, Tara Coffman

Protecting what matters most has always been at the heart of who I am. That commitment naturally led me to a career in financial services, where I have been helping individuals, families, and business owners build thoughtful strategies to safeguard their futures.

At New York Life, I am committed to being a trusted resource—someone my clients can rely on for guidance today and as their needs evolve over time.

The Faded Line, Mike Spanarkel

The Faded Line is operated by Mike Spanarkel. He is a local barber based out of Shrewsbury has been servicing all surrounding areas for the last 8 years. Get a haircut.

Rebel Supply Co.

Step into Rebel Supply Co. in Asbury Park for iconic vintage, unbeatable consignment finds, cutting-edge fashion, and fun gifts-all wrapped in immaculate vibes. This beloved, female owned and operated community hub is known for its welcoming staff, inclusive spirit, and events that bring people together, making it far more than a shop.

ASBURY PARK’S Driving Force

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAIGE WHITE

THE ASBURY PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: DRIVING BUSINESS, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY

Bringing together local businesses, creative voices, and community leaders to celebrate, support, and shape the spirit of Asbury Park. For more than a century, the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce has served as a central force behind the city’s economic vitality. From supporting small businesses to producing events that draw 1000’s of visitors each year, the Chamber plays a key role in connecting the entrepreneurial, culinary, and creative communities that define Asbury Park. Leading that effort today is Matthew Whelan, who stepped into the role after years working within the organization. Whelan followed former Executive Director Sylvia Sylvia Cioffi, whose leadership helped guide the Chamber through a period of tremendous growth. Building on that strong foundation, today’s leadership continues to evolve the Chamber while remaining rooted in the same spirit of collaboration and community.

Supporting Whelan is Paige White, who helps coordinate the many moving parts that keep the Chamber’s events and member services running smoothly. Leadership with Creative Roots In a city famous for its music and arts scene, it’s fitting that the Chamber’s leadership shares those creative roots.

“WHAT SETS ASBURY PARK’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY APART FROM OTHER SHORE TOWNS IS ITS TRUE SENSE OF COMMUNITY.

Matthew Whelan is also a musician and performs with the local band Jimmy Shoez & the Magooz, a group well known in the Asbury Park music scene for its high-energy performances and classic rock influences.

Jimmy Shoez & The Magooz is a 5-piece rockin’ cover band that plays a wide variety of hits. They are known for playing beach rock and hosting lively performances. Matt’s involvement in the local music community gives him a firsthand connection to the culture that fuels the city’s identity.

Paige White also brings a performer’s perspective to her role at the Chamber, and that shared creative background helps shape how the organization approaches its programming. The result is a calendar of events that feel distinctly “Asbury” a blend of business, food, music, and community. In Asbury Park, business isn’t separate from culture it’s part of the same creative ecosystem.

A COMMUNITY LIKE NO OTHER

That sense of connection is something long recognized by former Executive Director Sylvia Cioffi, whose years of leadership helped shape the Chamber into what it is today.

“Prior to taking the position as Business Development Director with the City of Asbury Park, I was fortunate to serve as the Director of the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce for many years. That role gave me the opportunity to get to know so many of our local business owners and managers.

What sets Asbury Park’s business community apart from other shore towns is its true sense of community and support. Our businesses come together like a family celebrating each other’s successes and standing by one another through challenges.”

Her words reflect what many in Asbury Park already know: collaboration is not just encouraged here it’s part of the culture.

SIGNATURE EVENTS THAT SHOWCASE THE CITY

The Chamber’s events are one of the primary ways it supports local businesses. Rather than traditional trade shows or formal business conferences, these gatherings invite residents and visitors to experience the city firsthand while discovering new restaurants, shops, and services.

“WHAT

MAKES THE ASBURY PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EFFECTIVE

IS ITS ABILITY TO reflect the character OF THE CITY ITSELF.”

THE ASBURY PARK RESTAURANT TOUR

Among the Chamber’s most popular events is the Asbury Park Restaurant Tour, an annual spring tradition that highlights the city’s dynamic culinary scene. Participants travel from restaurant to restaurant sampling signature dishes prepared by local chefs. The event gives diners a chance to explore establishments they may not have visited before, while restaurants gain valuable exposure to hundreds of potential new customers in a single afternoon.

SPRING AND FALL WINE TOURS

Another beloved Chamber event is the Wine Tour, held twice a year in both the spring and fall. Much like the Restaurant Tour, the Wine Tour offers a moving culinary experience, guiding guests through participating restaurants where they sample wines paired with specially prepared appetizers. Each stop introduces attendees to new flavors, new wines, and often, new favorite places.

ASBURYFEST

AsburyFest, held annually in Bradley Park, serves as a joyful kickoff to the summer season. With live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, and family friendly activities,

the event brings together residents, visitors, and local businesses in a way that truly reflects the spirit of Asbury Park. Drawing thousands each year, AsburyFest creates an important platform for small businesses to connect with both locals and tourists, reinforcing the Chamber’s mission to celebrate and support the community.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: THE CAROUSEL AWARDS

Among the Chamber’s most distinguished events are the Carousel Awards, an evening dedicated to recognizing the individuals, businesses, and organizations that have helped shape Asbury Park into the vibrant community it is today. Often described as the city’s own version of the Oscars, the event brings together community leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers for a night of celebration, reflection, and connection. With cocktails, dinner, live entertainment, and a touch of glamour, the Carousel Awards honor those who exemplify the spirit, resilience, and vision that continue to drive Asbury Park forward.

FIRST FRIDAYS: ENERGIZING THE DOWNTOWN

One of the Chamber’s newer initiatives, First Fridays, brings additional energy and foot traffic to Asbury Park’s downtown business district. On the first Friday of each month, shops, galleries, restaurants, and businesses extend their hours and offer special promotions, live music, and unique experiences. The program encourages people to explore the city together, rediscovering familiar places while uncovering new favorites.

These evenings often spark collaboration restaurants partner with artists, retailers host pop-ups, and musicians perform throughout the city transforming an ordinary night into a shared community experience.

MORE THAN EVENTS: A CONNECTOR FOR GROWTH

While the Chamber is well known for its events, its role goes far beyond programming. The organization serves as a vital connector bringing together businesses, nonprofits, and city leadership to strengthen relationships, share ideas, and support sustainable growth. Through networking events, member programs, and ongoing collaboration, the Chamber helps amplify local voices while fostering partnerships that benefit the entire community. These efforts don’t just celebrate the city they directly support small businesses and contribute to year-round economic vitality.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS: MONTHLY NETWORKING EVENTS

Beyond its large-scale events, the Chamber also hosts monthly networking gatherings at local businesses and restaurants throughout the city. These events have become a favorite among members, offering a more personal and consistent way

“THE CHAMBER ENSURES THAT GROWTH NEVER COMES AT THE expense of community BUT INSTEAD strengthens it.”

to connect. Each month, business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community members come together in a different setting whether it’s a restaurant, retail space, or venue creating opportunities to build relationships in a relaxed and welcoming environment. For many, these gatherings are more than just networking they’re a way to stay connected to the heartbeat of Asbury Park’s business community. In fact, many members say access to these events alone is reason enough to join, drawn by the opportunity to collaborate, share ideas, and support one another in meaningful ways.

THE ENERGY BEHIND ASBURY PARK’S SUCCESS

What makes the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce so effective is its ability to reflect the character of the city itself.

Asbury Park has always been a place where music, food, creativity, and entrepreneurship intersect. Under the leadership of Matthew Whelan, with the support of Paige White and the Chamber’s dedicated board, the organization continues to cultivate that vibrant spirit through experiences that invite people to connect in meaningful ways. Perhaps the Chamber’s greatest success lies in its ability to bring together the people who call Asbury Park home with those discovering it for the first time. Locals rediscover their neighborhoods, visitors uncover hidden gems, and each interaction strengthens the fabric of the community. In a city defined by its energy and creativity, the Chamber ensures that growth never comes at the expense of community but instead strengthens it.

Don't wait to check out what's in Asbury Park and around the country

EXPLORE DURING SUMMER

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED CONDRAN

“Roam if you want to/Roam around the world.” The B-52s “Roam.”

The Athens, Georgia band’s hit from a generation ago was a perfect summer song since this is the season to explore. Now is the time to step outside of the familiar whether you’re considering a trip to a part of the country you’ve always wanted to experience or by checking out a hidden gem in Asbury Park.

One of the coolest spots in Asbury Park is the aptly dubbed Laylow (603 Mattison Avenue,  https:// www.laylowap.com), which is beneath its sister restaurants Barrio Costero & Reyla. Laylow is an out of the way cocktail lab, where unique drinks are concocted. It’s a fun hangout with weekly local DJ sets, seasonal menus and innovative pop-ups.

Cameo Love Market, (1213 Main St., https:// cameolovemarket.com) which was the site of a historic speakeasy, has a great vibe. It’s a locally sourced farm-to-table experience. The menu is loaded with terrific options such as the Mediterranean tuna, the croque monsieur and the prosciutto di parma & fresh mozzarella.

The Paranormal Museum, (621 Cookman Avenue,  https://paranormalbooksnj.com/about) is one of the most fun ways to spend an afternoon. The under the radar repository combines a curated bookstore specializing in paranormal literature, folklore and local history with an immersive museum experience that explores ghost stories, legends, unexplained phenomena and spiritual traditions from around the world. It has a strong connection to Asbury Park’s own haunted past.

There’s no place like the Antique Emporium of Asbury Park ((732) 774-8230, 646 Cookman Ave.) There is a myriad of unusual items ranging from vintage clothing to rare coins to offbeat trinkets.

And then there are so many options if you really want to get away, which is something that you owe yourself, at least once a year.

There’s a number of ways to beat the summer heat by exploring via the road less travelled. A drive to West Virginia’s New River Gorge to experience the Lower New and/or Upper New River is an inspired choice.  The Lower New offers a number of relatively challenging class IV and V rapids while the Upper New features 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-phone reception.

Those on initial river runs fear not since capable guides at River Expeditions  (304) 574-2827, https:// raftinginfo.com) make the trek a breeze.  It’s never a good idea to venture down rapids without a professional, since the Lower New River can get dicey. Plus, guides offer critical tips in case of trouble.

“Now is the time to step outside the familiar whether you're considering a part of the country or a hidden gem in Asbury Park.”

“There are so many options if you really want to get away, which is something that you owe yourself, at least once a year.”

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.

My sons Eddie and Milo had a blast while splashed by the walls of water and surfing!! The latter is riding a stationary wave created by rushing whitewater flowing over rocks or ledges.

River Expeditions also offers ziplines and lodging.

Key West is often a bucket list trip but America’s Southernmost point is difficult to book for much of the year. Accomodations often open up and are most affordable from August through October. Hotel rates are sometimes cut in half. The summer heat can be intense but the best way to deal with it is to take part in a variety of water sports in Key West. A snorkeling adventure is almost mandatory. Milo and I enjoyed a peak experience snorkeling the coral reefs. Sunset Watersports ( https://sunsetwatersportskeywest.com) also offers parasailing, jetski tours, dinner cruises, eco adventures and dolphin tours.

Aquatic is the way to go but don’t miss Ernest Hemingway’s Home and Museum (https://www. hemingwayhome.com). The legendary writer’s home is just the way it was when Hemingway passed away nearly 70-years ago. It’s also worth visiting to pet Hemingway’s cats, which possess an extra digit or two.

It’s quite a contrast from Hemingway’s house in Cuba, which also remains in the state it was when the novelist fled the country in 1960. There’s more to explore in Hemingway’s Florida estate, which is the one of the few homes in the Sunshine State with a basement.

The Cuban sandwiches in Cuba suffer from poor ingredients. However, the American version of the classic sandwich, which is comprised of pressed ham and Swiss cheese with roasted pork, pickles and mustard on crispy Cuban bread, is tough to pass up. Grab one at  El Siboney Restaurant ( https://www. elsiboneyrestaurant.com).

Considering the state of the environment, now is the time to visit Glacier National Park. According to NASA scientists, ( https://science.nasa.gov/earth/ earth-observatory/world-of-change/glacier-national-park/), the park may be glacier free by 2030.

Who knows what the future will bring? However, the present is stunning at the pristine destination, which is located in northwestern Montana, on the Canadian-United States border.

Glacier is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

Biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road on an e-bike was invigorating even though it started pouring halfway through the six-mile journey. When looking up at the sky and screaming, “I wish it would stop raining,” the Gods complied and it began hailing.

It was difficult to do anything but laugh. At least the sun prevailed while climbing the steeper grades. The adventure is a cyclist’s dream. The river runs parallel and the sight of the surrounding mountains capped with snow is majestic. You can navigate the full-50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park (www.glacierguides.com)  but it’s a challenging full-day event. which typically takes more than nine hours.

There are plenty of lakes and bays to enjoy. While kayaking on the smooth, crystal-clear Somers Bay, (www.seamepaddle.com) eagles soar and geese land on the water. Navigating through the still bay is transportive since it’s so quiet and relaxed.

A trip to Flathead Lake, arguably the cleanest, most pristine lake in America is almost required. The same goes for a visit to Flathead Lake’s Biological Station ( https://flbs.umt.edu/newflbs) where you can experience Hungry Horse Dam, which is simply awe-inspiring. The arch dam is located about 15 miles south of the west entrance to Glacier National Park.

For anyone who complains about obsolescence, you’ll love the Conrad Mansion Museum, (www.conradmansion.com) which is a welcome throwback. There are 130-year old Thomas Edison

CONTINUED >

lightbulbs, which continue to function. The home was built in 1895 by Conrad and the architecture and craftsmanship are a sight to behold.

A staff of 24 were required for upkeep. Conrad’s daughter decided that the house was too much for her in 1965 and handed over the keys to the city of Kalispell.

The wide western streets of downtown Kalispell feature Western wear shops and a number of old time establishments such as the charming Norm’s Soda Fountain (www.normsdodafountain.com), which is as quaint as it sounds.

The shop is out of a Norman Rockwell painting and the fare is terrific and a bargain. The pork chopper, a double is less than $10, features a fried pork chop sandwich with pickle, mayo and onion. It’s different and delicious.

You can’t leave the shop without trying a phosphate or a float. A root beer float with The Huckleberry Finn, huckleberry ice cream topped with huckleberry sauce, is sublime.

Kalispell is the land of huckleberry. The charming Josephine’s Speakeasy offers cocktail-making lessons. The libatiion of choice is what else but the huckleberry cocktail.

There’s more to Kalispell than drinks and dessert. The Holiday Garden Inn of all places houses

one of the finest bistros in town, The Freestone Restaurant (www.freestonerestaurant.com) is surprisingly top tier. Start with bone marrow topped with roasted mushroom duxelles, pink peppercorn and Chimichurri Crostini. The wild caught scallops with mushrooms and capers is a can’t miss entree.

Mercantile Steak’s (www.mercantilesteak.com)  16-ounce boneless bison ribeye, which is dry-aged for 14 days, is local and fantastic.

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay with breathtaking views, experience the Clark Family Silos (www.clarkfarmsilos.com) . They’re off the beaten path but it’s worth the trip. The metal structures are equipped with incredible views, fully functional kitchenettes, a patio and a fire pit.  The Silos are ideal for a  omantic stay or for a couple with a child since it’s one loft bedroom with a king bed and one sleeper sofa and one bathroom.

It’s a great home base for an atypical but memorable trip at a location that is overlooked but it’s an experience travelers won’t forget. There were once almost 150 glaciers in the park and now there are just 26 so the time is now for anyone who wants to experience glaciers in Glacier National Park, as well as plenty of outdoor activities and a bunch of culinary delights.

The Explorer’s Gene

If you ever wonder why we are compelled to explore, check out Alex Hutchinson's book, "The Explorer's Gene." It's revelatory. “It’s easy to find arguments for sticking with the familiar; but sometimes you have to venture into the unknown and see for yourself what’s out there," Hutchinson wrote. Hutchinson details why we push our limits and why we crave experiencing something new often.  Hutchinson writes that exploration can impact every aspect of our lives, if we embrace it. Hutchinson writes why climbers are willing to risk dying in order to scale Mount Everest. That's extreme exploration but there's also simple, everyday exploration such as restaurant choices. Some folks tend to order the same each time they hit a bistro. Perhaps though it's time to leave your comfort zone and try sushi or foie gras. Exploration is healthy for your body and your mind. Exploration fuels curiosity, drives innovation, and fosters critical thinking, ultimately leading to lifesaving technologies. My sons and I have visited Alaska four times over the last two years. Half of those visits have been during the dead of winter leading to unforgettable experiences. It's your turn.

21 WESTRA STREET • INTERLAKEN

This classic 4 BD, 2.5 BA colonial with a guest house in desirable Interlaken offers the perfect blend of character and comfort. Set on a beautiful property, this inviting home features spacious living areas, sun-drenched interiors and a close proximity to all that shore life has to offer.

JOSEPH BAUMANN JOSEPH BAUMANN REALTOR ASSOCIATE REALTOR ASSOCIATE cell. 732.221.0865 cell. 732.221.0865

ARTICLE BY ED CONDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PURPLE STONES SPA

we all need human touch

Transformative massages are provided by Purple Stones Spa

A good parent is in touch with their children. That is literal for Violet Lapid. The Ocean Township resident believed that a massage would benefit her autistic daughter and she was correct.

Massage therapy helps individuals with autism by regulating the nervous system, which reduces stress and anxiety. Tailored touch therapies improve sensory processing, decrease tactile defensiveness, encourage social bonding and enhance sleep quality.

Lapid’s then four-year old daughter’s life was enhanced by her mother’s touch. “Autistic kids see things differently,” Lapid explained. “The only way to calm her down was by a massage.”

Massage helped change both Lapid and her daughter’s lives. Lapid’s child, now 19, is a well adjusted young lady. “She’s very smart and a very brave girl,” Lapid said. “She’s now a college freshman.”

Lapid is a massage therapist, who owns Purple Stones Spa in Ocean Township and in Toms River, thanks to those sessions with her daughter.

“I love what I do since I make people feel better,” Lapid said. “It’s like a meditation when I work on people’s bodies.  I create a customized plan for each client. I do whatever they need and I use aromatherapy.”

Massage isn’t just for those who experience aches and pain. Lapid believes the lonely can use the human touch as much as someone dealing with a back problem.

“Humans need touch,” Lapid said. “There is that connection with massage. There are so many lonely people out there than can use touch.”

Lapid lets her clients open up. “If they want to talk, I let them talk,” Lapid said. “If they want to cry that’s fine too. I will never share what anyone says to me during a session, not even with a family member.”

Lapid offers services including Swedish massage, therapeutic massage, deep tissue massage, and sports massage.

Lapid also teaches massage, particularly with parents. “I love to have people learn to give a massage,” Lapid said. “It’s good to massage your kids. I do workshops where people can learn how to touch their children. It’s a great way to stay in touch with your children, even when they get older. There is nothing like a loving massage from a mother.”

Lapid speaks from experience. When her daughter returns from college, she gets the hands on treatment from the owner of Purple Stones Spa.

“She still enjoys it,” Lapid said.

“What I do is an amazing service for an affordable price. All our welcome to experience what I do.”

When Lapid isn’t at work the married mother of three children enjoys gardening and design, which takes her back to her office.

I’m a very artistic person,” Lapid said. “I design my shops myself. I’m also very handy. I do a lot the work myself including the painting. I do all that I can to make for a good environment for

my clients. What I do is an amazing service for an affordable price. All our welcome to experience what I do.”

Purple Stones Spas are located at 891 W Park Ave, Ocean Township, NJ, and 1901 Lakewood Rd, Toms River. For more information, (848) 992-0212, https://purplestonesspa.gift

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction Markets available nationwide. Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

The 10% Target Mindset

Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT

Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.

He calls days later.

That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.

The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.

The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.

“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”

FEATURING JEN COHEN

Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.

1 2

MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS

The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.

STACK THE DECK

Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.

3

DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE

No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.

4

SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP

Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.

5

NEVER MISS A MONDAY

The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.

JULY 11TH

The Skatalites

The Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Ave. | 8:00 PM

The only Jamaican band that is arguably more influential than the Skatalites is Bob Marley & The Wailers. Who knows what Marley would have been able to achieve if the Skatalites didn't create the ska template. The Skatalites have been around for more than 60-years.

JULY 12TH

Silverstein and Story of the Year

Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Ave. | 5:00 PM

Silverstein, which is named after the iconic writer Shel Silverstein, and Story of the Year, will perform. Silverstein, which delivers a gritty amalgam of emo and hardcore, is a solid live act and Story of the Year is adept at engaging the audience.

JULY 12TH

God Street Wine

The Wonder Bar | 7:00 PM

The veteran New York City jam band will deliver a combination ofrock, jazz, bluegrass, funk, psychedelia, pop, Americana and reggae.