By Mark Rosman
Staff Writer
MANALAPAN — A full slate of activities will greet people of all ages who attend the Manalapan Day community celebration at the Manalapan Recreation Center, Route 522, on June 11. Activities will get underway at 3 p.m.
Members of the Manalapan Arts Council (MAC) plan and host the annual event which will feature rides, games, vendors, entertainment, a petting zoo and a fireworks show. Donations from sponsors cover the cost of Manalapan Day, according to Deputy Mayor Susan Cohen.
Radio personality Tommy G will preside as master of ceremonies.
This year’s featured entertainment will be the Spinners, whose hit songs include “Rubberband Man,” “I’ll Be Around,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love,” “Then Came You,” “Games People Play” and “One of a Kind (Love Affair).” The Spinners will perform at 8 p.m.
A fireworks display will cap off Manalapan Day at 9:30 p.m.
“Manalapan Day is a great day for our residents to come and enjoy our beautiful rec center. Our MAC volunteers do a wonderful job each year. There are many food vendors, rides and fireworks for the whole family,” Mayor Mary Ann Musich said.
The classic rock band Another Chance will perform favorites from the Beatles, the Eagles, Prince, Thin Lizzy, the Allman Brothers and more.
The Manalapan-based band features the father and daughter vocal team of Joe and Kim Apadula, the father and son guitar duo of Ken and Nick Porcaro, Alan “The Doctor” Beilis on bass guitar and Andy Miller on drums.
The teen group NEGATIV3 will performi an eclectic mix of music ranging from current pop to classic rock. Band members include Gustavo Amaral, Andre Golumbeski, Miles Griffin, Zak Griffin and Noelle Iati.
Guests are asked to bring high-protein canned goods and other non-perishable items for the Samaritan Center food pantry.
“Every year the Manalapan Arts Council tries to raise the bar and this year they have done that again. Manalapan Day is the place to be on June 11,” MAC Chairman Marty Gelfond said.
“Manalapan volunteers help make our town a great place to live. Our MAC volunteers work hard all year to give the community a day in which we can celebrate our wonderful township,” Cohen said.
Parking for Manalapan Day will be available at Manalapan High School, Church Lane, and at Temple Beth Shalom, Route 522. Both parking locations are a short walk from the recreation center.
Shuttle buses will run between the high school and the recreation center and between the Covered Bridge adult community and the recreation center from 3-10 p.m., Cohen said.
