Weddings & The Olympics

The weather would be bad, traffic would be a nightmare and security would have its hands full protecting athletes and spectators. That was what some forecast for the Summer Olympics in London which closed in spectacular fashion 17 days after the opened. None of the dire predictions came true and from all indications England was simply a wonderful host.

For all of those who love to find fault with the Olympics I thoroughly enjoyed the two weeks of competition which gave us stunning individual performances by Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Missy Franklin, Gabby Douglas and Mo Farah. And of course the US Women’s Soccer team featuring captain and Point Pleasant native Christie Rampone.

Plus these games featuring a long-awaited Spice Girls reunion; how do you top that? Well done London. big shoes for Rio de Janeiro to fill.

After a stretch in which he went just 2-20 Todd Frazier saw his batting average drop to .262 last Wednesday and many were wondering if the Cincinnati Reds rookie might be on a downward spiral that would send him to the bench.

The 26-year old from Toms River had been the subject of Rookie of the Year talk before slumping. Well this slump is over. Frazier has gone 9-15 in his last four games and is now batting .280 with 14 home runs and 48 RBI’s in what has been an outstanding first full season in the major leagues.

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Arminio Jr. as the couple was married over the weekend at Windows on the Water in Sea Bright. Despite ominous clouds and a shaky forecast the weather was just fine for the ceremony on the beach followed by a great cocktail hour outside and then reception upstairs.

Joey is the son of Toms River Regional Schools Athletic Director Joe Arminio and his wife Gina and we were delighted to celebrate the occasion with them and their family as well as Meghan’s family.

I have a special shot-out to Vinny Arminio, who was the best man and had to deliver the customary toast for his older brother and new wife. Vinny fought off the emotions to deliver one from the heart which is what it’s all about. Best wishes to the new couple.