“It Takes a Village to Rebuild Its Village”
Gail L. Oliver, Vice President of MURC
Let me be the first to say “how U doing” to everyone !! It is indeed my pleasure to welcome and thank all of you here tonight for supporting our 4th annual Harvest Moon “JEANS & JEWELS” Ball ! We’re here to celebrate and reminisce about those long time businesses and their owners still located on Neptune’s West Lake Avenue (formerly Springwood Avenue and a/k/a the “Ave”).
As a little girl growing up in my house* on Springwood Avenue across from M & E Motors and Chidnese’s Scrap Metal Yard near Route 35, I certainly remember some of the original owners. There were restaurants (Miss Daisey’s, – later became, Clara’s Restaurant), corner stores, clothing stores, pharmacies, tailor and shoe shine shops, churches, record shops, pool halls, gasoline stations, business, Vet’s Cab stand, bars and liquor stores,. In the Asbury Park portion of the Ave, living above businesses was the norm.
Turbulent times, though, hit most urban cities in the U.S. in the 1960’s and 70’s including Asbury Park and Neptune in 1970 on the Ave. Close to three decades later, a movement happened – started by a persistent voice with a vision – that little girl who still lived on Springwood Avenue in Neptune. Very soon, I was joined by other residents in unity. Elected officials were contacted, and in December, 1998 the official beginning of a redevelopment process started – we volunteers became an empowerment council under a State program specifically for underserved cities.
In 2006, MURC officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Our stake and commitment are evident … for as long as it takes … together … with you, for you, and about you – for it is our community !
This evening is also about all of us having some FUN … eat, drink (responsively); AND most of all, listen to the “DOCTOR” Bob Lee – his prescription is simple, just DANCE ! Then, when you take a break, mix, mingle, LAUGH, and get reacquainted with those you haven’t seen in a long time !
Lastly, Thank You to President, Dianna Harris, Officers, and all MURC Trustees for your hard work and support throughout the year !
Also, remember to “designate” a driver
Get home safe so we can see all of you and others again next year !
* Phase 1 of redevelopment on W. Lake Avenue began with the demolition of Gail’s house and others – November, 2008 – great memories forever !
