NJ Discover at 2^nd Annual Dog Day Afternoon. Marlboro NJ   by Calvin Schwartz

Saturday early afternoon was cool and overcast with rain threatening. Back in October, The 2nd Annual Dog Day Afternoon
was scheduled but a rainout and winter shifted the date. Canine and people support today was impressive; the event was held at Marlboro Township Recreation Center Dog Park and all for a wonderful cause: in honor of the late Mark Eric Levine who always wanted a dog. Donations received benefits the Ashley Lauren Foundation; ‘Hope and Help for Children with Cancer.’ For more information: http://ashleylaurenfoundation.org/events

Marlboro Mayor Jonathan Hornik officially welcomed the assembled and then segues to the first event of the day, a dog trick contest. Several human booths were operated by animal related vendors. A representative of ‘Rose’s Fund’ illuminated us. “No one should ever have to choose between medical care and euthanizing their pet.” Rose’s Fund was created so this painful decision never has to be made. The fund reaches out to families of pets with medical problems that they can’t afford to pay for and provides funding. In their four years, they’ve helped 200 families.  Please check their website: www.rosesfund.org

We were able to get several photo-ops with the canine contingents who were mostly in motion or hanging out the water bar. It was a major fun event and no rain.

Calvin Schwartz  5-5-12

The story of Mark Levine, his life and his burger has caught national attention. Through the Ashley Lauren Foundation and 709 Restaurant in Point Pleasant Beach, Mark is being honored with the “Mark The Shark Day” Friday January 27th from noon until close. Mark’s own burger will be a special on the menu and the proceeds will benefit The Ashley Lauren Foundation, helping make wishes come true for local children battling cancer. NJ Discover reporters Tara-Jean Vitale and Calvin Schwartz are on the scene.  Check out interviews with 709 Restaurant Owner, Chef Mike, Big Joe Henry and Ashley Lauren.