Poetry Festival in Long Branch July 4

Long Branch – Poetry has a rich history in Long Branch. Former National Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky was raised in the city, and wrote about scenes in his works. Author and poet Dorothy Parker was also born in the city. When the city officially opened its new Boardwalk this spring, Long Branch’s Poet Laureate, Emanuel di Pasquale, recited a poem at the ceremony.

Emanuel di Pasquale, Long Branch’s poet laureate, read a piece he had written while watching the construction work, “On the Resurgence of Long Branch’s Boardwalk” at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the boardwalk this spring. He will serve as MC at the Poetry Festival on July 4.

So on the Fourth of July, the city will once again celebrate poems and poets. The Second Annual Poetry Festival will be held on July 4 at Pier Village, at the Gazebo, from 10 a.m. to noon. More than 20 poets will recite works.

The event is held with the support of the Long Branch Mayor and Council, and the Greater Long Branch Chamber of Commerce.

The mayor will introduce the event and read a poem; Councilman John Pallone and son John Thomas Pallone and Councilwoman Joy Bastelli may read a poem or two.

Emanuel di Pasquale, will work as MC.

Poets featured include:

• Gabor Barabas
• Jesse Burns
• Prescott Evarts
• Frank Finale
• Gregg Glory
• David Stern Herrstrom
• Carrie Pedersen Hudak
• Charles H. Johnson
• Laine Sutton Johnson
• Peter E. Murphy
• Susanna Rich
• Mathew Spano
• Frank J. Valentino
• Emily Vogel
• BJ Ward
• Daniel Weeks
• Joe Weil
• Dan Zimmerman
• Sander Zulauf