Meet the Jersey Shore's Most Influential People for 2024
We all have people in our lives who are really important to us. They are people who provide unconditional love and support. Many are close friends and relatives, but acquaintances and even strangers can provide a lasting impact.
We want to pause and take notice of the people at the Jersey Shore who work, both in the limelight and behind the scenes, to provide a positive influence on this place we call home, and who continue to shape its future.
APP.com and the Asbury Park Press sought to highlight those who have a big impact – from political leaders to those in the sectors of business, entertainment, sports, food, the beaches and social justice.
It's a given that you won't agree with all of our selections. That's to be expected. This group is more about who had an impact on our lives rather than a popularity contest. We talked to a lot of people in assembling these lists. But we recognize we may still have missed some, and we want to hear about it. If you think there's someone worthy who is not on these lists, email Executive Editor Phil Freedman at pfreedman@gannett.com. Please include a brief explanation of why you think they are deserving and contact information.
These lists are in no way comprehensive. But they’re important as a means of recognizing those working hard throughout our state, or whose actions alter a significant aspect about it, and as a reminder of who to watch throughout 2024 and beyond.
Phil Freedman, Executive Editor
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Meet the Jersey Shore’s Most Influential People for 2024
Jersey Shore: Beach Advocates
🔒 They are the people on the front lines — and often, behind the scenes — who work diligently to keep our beaches clean and accessible to all. They are the hardworking activists and advocates who are trying to make sure those who live at the Jersey Shore are protected from storms and floods, and that the fragile beach ecosystem will continue to enthrall visitors for years to come. READ MORE
Jersey Shore: Business Leaders
🔒 Today's business influencers have a reach that extends throughout the economy at the Jersey Shore. You can see their impact on your job, whether your employer received a bank loan or moved into new offices. You shop at the supermarket or patronize a small business or retailer. There are technology innovators, health care professionals and restaurateurs bringing Jersey flavors to new markets across the U.S. READ MORE
Jersey Shore: Community Impact
🔒 Individuals with the greatest influence over a community are not always politicians. They are that neighbor that you've seen at every event around the city; the person passing out flyers for a free concert in the park; the ones protesting against injustice. They are just trying to make their home better for everyone. READ MORE
Jersey Shore: Entertainment Figures
🔒 The star power of the Jersey Shore is on the rise in the arts and entertainment world, from concert stages to TV and movies to Broadway. Here are the movers and shakers in the spotlight, and others who are behind the scenes making the magic happen. READ MORE
Jersey Shore: Food Scene
🔒 From a "Top Chef" contestant to chefs dedicated to making a difference, Monmouth and Ocean counties are lucky to claim these incredible food industry folks. READ MORE
Jersey Shore: Political Leaders
🔒 The business of governing the Jersey Shore may have evolved some since the days of “Boardwalk Empire,” but it’s still a modern feudal system run by political bosses, real estate developers, old and new money, entrenched incumbents and — now and then — the occasional visionary who manages to break through. READ MORE
Jersey Shore: Sports Figures
🔒 From a football field in Southern Ocean County to the hardwood in a high school gym along the Bayshore, the Jersey Shore has long been a hotbed for athletics. The games, involving top coaches and players who have succeeded at the highest levels, have helped weave the fabric of communities over the decades. Here are some of the people having the greatest impact between the lines locally. READ MORE
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Introducing the Jersey Shore's Most Influential People for 2024
