It's easy to see why Long Branch became a 19th-century resort. There's much to offer. The sky's darkness is giving way to the blue-gray of dawn and the first pink streaks are appearing out over the ocean. He's a tad late for work, but no one seems to mind. The day starts early for Clairesa Woods.
Every day starts early for Woods, who has had to face motherhood early in life.
Although the population stands at just over 30,000, the city of Long Branch could qualify as the miniature melting pot of the Jersey Shore. Italians, African-Americans, Irish, Portuguese, Brazilians, Hispanics and Jews have flocked here. A tall, angular man, pacing back and forth and gesturing with his hand, is framed in the front windows of 605 Second Ave. Both men share a love for these special motorcycles. It's all business for business at this hotel Providing its guests with access to a private beach renders the Ocean Place Conference Center the hotel of choice for many businesses from throughout the country.