Imagination of Ryan Simmons

If you asked me, “What are the top 5 most important moments in your life?” I’d have to include my discovery of Who’s on First on that list. Placing a coffee shop on this type of pedestal seems preposterous if you only go in and grab a cup of joe, but Who’s on First is so much more than that to me. It’s the central beacon of my professional and social life. I have my own corner at First. I’m sitting here as I type this.

First introduced me to quality coffee for the first time in my life, a life dominated by Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks up to that point. In speaking with Eric Mason, the cornerstone coffee mixologist behind the counter, I came to recognize coffee as a culture comparable to that of foodies and beer/wine enthusiasts. There were slight differences in the taste and smell of each bean that I’d never have discovered without his guidance. Eric’s dedication to understanding coffee took him on a journey to Portland this past winter to learn more about the process and culture. Below is a video from his first coffee cupping event when he returned.

Beyond the delicious dose of caffeine delivered to my vains, First has introduced me to some remarkable young people. Eric is a regular at my house and a formidable basketball opponent on the court. We sit on my deck discussing our plans for the future. Eric’s goal is non-negotiable: He wants his own coffee shop someday. Eric’s respect for and understanding of the coffee culture makes him so much more than a guy selling coffee. He is an artist constantly striving to master his craft.

In addition to Eric, First employs the uber-talented and infinitely lovely Jayne Lukens. Jayne spent her winter in California but the return of her and her camera to OC marks the kick-off of summer for me. OC native Brandon Longo stuck around through the winter balancing work at the cafe, an internship at NBC 40 and studies at Rowan University. Days away from graduation, Brandon has parlayed his internship into a full-time position with NBC 40 and he’s got a bright future. Then there is Liz Barrella. I playfully refer to her as my little puppy dog because she’s adorable, filled with energy and will surely bring a smile to your face.

I’m not telling you this because these people are my friends. I’m telling you this because in the vain of JFK, I asked myself ‘Ask not what your coffee shop can do for you but what you can do for your coffee shop.’ They provide me with an amazing atmosphere for creativity and socialization. The least I can do is give my seal of approval via this blog and suggest you give them a try. Supporting this, or any, local coffee shop does more than you can imagine. Every dollar I spend here ends up in the pocket of the 4 young people that man the counter. That money will then be pumped back into our local economy and/or help them achieve their goals. I now know the answer to the question who’s on first and I suggest you come find out the answer for yourself.

Who’s On First can be found at 1st and Asbury in Ocean City, NJ and on Facebook. This month they’re having a t-shirt design contest focusing on the phrase ‘Make Coffee, Not War’. You can submit designs now and voting begins May 28th.