Middletown honors van zandt brothers with street renaming ceremony
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Middletown Honors Van Zandt Brothers with Street Renaming Ceremony

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April 27, 2024
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MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Middletown celebrated its musical heritage on Friday by renaming Wilson Avenue to Van Zandt Way, honoring local legends Steven and Billy Van Zandt. The event, hosted by Middletown native and newsman Brian Williams, attracted hundreds, including residents and fans.

During the midday ceremony, Williams lauded Steven Van Zandt as an architect of the Jersey Shore sound, a unique blend of rock and R&B. Steven, a key member of the E Street Band and influential in the music industry with his actions against apartheid through his song “Sun City,” shared heartfelt memories of his family and their influence on his success. Billy Van Zandt, noted for his contributions to television and theatre, reminisced about their childhood in the neighborhood.

The renaming event significantly acknowledges the Van Zandt brothers’ contributions to the arts and their community, celebrating their global and local impacts.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News