Free Coffee at Booskerdoo Fair Haven on August 30th. "River City Roast" For RCE's "Simple Gifts" 2013.

#LOCALBUSINESSFOREVER

When I started this blog, my musical tastes were pretty heavily focused on the national acts that one hears on something like SiriusXMU. As time went on, though, I became acquainted with the vibrant, local music scene in Monmouth and Ocean Counties; and I've tried to promote that a little bit more. As kind of a corollary to that, I've tried to make a more conscious effort to patronize locally-owned businesses -- Langosta Lounge, Jack's Music Shoppe, Surf Taco, Sickles Market.

This past Sunday morning, I decided I'd finally try Monmouth Beach's Booskerdoo Coffee. I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in to find that my morning latte would be prepared by the drummer for two of my favorite area acts -- River City Extension and Thanks -- Mike Costaney. Mike is a great guy and an expert barista, and it was a pleasure getting to talk to him. The Monmouth Beach Branch of Booskerdoo is one of those great, little coffee shops that fosters good conversation. They roast their own coffee; they don't serve any beans over a week old; and they produce some nice baked goods.

Booskerdoo owners Jim (roaster) and Amelia (baker) Caverly recently took over and renovated the space that used to be Fair Haven's Java Stop at 793 River Rd. to open their second location. They'll be celebrating the opening of the new location with an all-day Free Coffee Day. From 6AM to 5PM on August 30th, customers can get a complimentary 10oz drip coffee (10oz cappuccinos and lattes will be $1).

And in a local music / local business fusion of sorts, Booskerdoo have collaborated with River City Extension to produce a "River City Roast" that will be included as part of pre-order ticket bundles for the band's recently announced Thanksgiving Eve "Simple Gifts" show at The Stone Pony. I went to the show last year, and I'll definitely be back for 2013.

If you're looking for a few local bands / businesses to support and don't mind getting some free stuff, then stop in at one of the Booskerdoo locations (Free coffee in Fair Haven on 8/30), grab your "Simple Gifts" tickets, and head over to Thanks's Bandcamp page to download their excellent EP (Free).