By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger.

Walking on the boards of Asbury Park on Sunday of the Labor Day weekend, the throngs on the beach and the boards added up to a noisy but happy din. It reminded me of Coney Island in the 1950’s.

A live concert was going on at the Stone Pony, and the joyful sound of reggae music was audible all over. The crowd was very youthful, and there were laughter and optimism in the air. Lines had formed at all the eateries, and families were coming on and off the beach.   Security provided a gentle touch for those who were still entering the outdoors arena for the concert.

But walking back into Cookman Avenue and then onto the bridge heading to Firemen’s Park in Ocean Grove, there was an abrupt change characterized by peaceful quiet. Just a few people were walking on the bridge, the swan boats were slowly gliding by, and the biggest sound was that of the water fountain in Wesley Lake.

The striking contrast struck a chord that amplified the fact that these two towns: Asbury Park and Ocean Grove complemented each other, and that is a pleasant realization that many in the Grove are now appreciating, although I see no indication that the A. Park people recognize the importance of the relationship.

At any rate, the arrival of A. Park as a major tourist destination and year round community can only help Ocean Grove realize positive goals as a community with much to gain from its walkable proximity to its boistrous next door neighbor.

LOUIS ARMSTRONG: