It was the beginning of anything but an everyday kind of day in Belmar and neighboring South Belmar. With a soft onshore breeze in our faces and a pastel blue sky overhead, it was a setting that Thoreau would have found appealing.
Summer towns come alive, fueled by youthful energy and stamina.
This day, though, was almost like a day of rest after the marathon July 4th weekend. Thanks to Ed Lippincott, owner of Chef Ed's at Fourth and Ocean avenues, and to Belmar Mayor Kenneth Pringle, administrator Frank Russo-Alessi and the Belmar Beach Patrol Office staff for accommodating our request to set up on the Eighth Avenue beach in the afternoon. Last call at the clubs marked the end. Except this day, folks seemed to slow down to admire the weather.