Monmouth Politicians Unite For Sandy Relief

After a year of contentious elections at the local, state and national level Republicans and Democrats from around Monmouth County will come together to help the area recover from the damage done by Hurricane Sandy. 

The New Leaders Council, made up of members of both parties announced that a concert will be held on December 30 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park and include several of the top local bands.

"Monmouth United" is being sponsored by the New Leaders Council - New Jersey as well as the Monmouth County Republicans, Monmouth County Democrats, New Jersey Young Republicans and New Jersey Young Democrats.

Justin Braz, the President of the New Leaders Council said the concert is a chance to "bridge the political divide by bringing people together to help make a difference for those in need."

The event will be emceed by Kevin McArdle with the B Street band, The Pat Roddy Band, Joe Orlando and the Cryers, Vinny Pastore and the Crazy Horse Band and Back Up Jackson scheduled to take the stage.

There is excitement on both sides of the aisle about the prospects of the concert. "This is an excellent opportunity for putting aside partisan differences to help our friends and neighbors begin putting their lives back together," said Monmouth County Republican Chairman John Bennett.

Monmouth County Democrat Chairman Vin Gopal said it was good to have an event to bring the two sides together. "We look forward to working with Chairman Bennett and Monmouth County Republicans to assist all of our neighbors across Monmouth County who were affected by this horrible storm."

Gopal added, "Monmouth Democrats and Republicans share the hope and determination to rebuild and restore our great County and State."

Tony Howley, Chairman of the New Jersey Young Republicans and Chris James, President of the New Jersey Young Democrats said they were glad their organizations could be part of the planning for the fundraiser. 

"This is a great chance for our organizations to combine efforts for a worthy cause that will benefit our community," said Howley. "We are proud to be a part of this effort raising awareness and funds to rebuild the Jersey Shore and surrounding communities," added James. 

People who go to the concert are encouraged to bring food and cleaning supplies that can be donated to the Monmouth Ocean County Food bank. Proceeds from the show will be donated to the Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund.