■ Real Property
Continued From Page 8
“ It ’ s a wonderful community . You have people from all walks of life . It ’ s wonderful to see how everybody participates in the community and gets involved .” the attorney said . Like Sackman , Karas finds the city fascinating . He even became a part-owner of the Asbury Distillery . It ’ s located in one of Sackman ’ s buildings on Lake Avenue which also houses the popular Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten .
The craft distillery features a tasting room and patrons can buy bottles of its whisky and spirits there . Karas said the distillery also has a significant footprint across the state , bringing the Asbury products to liquor stores , bars , and restaurants throughout New Jersey .
Each of the properties Karas worked on with Sackman presented a different challenge and opportunity . Rehabilitation of the art deco building at 550 Cookman Avenue had to give careful consideration to the clock tower , chandeliers , and decorative features on the façade . Today , the property has eight storefronts and 31 residential units .
The old Asbury Park Press Building on Mattison Avenue was also acquired by Sackman . It ’ s one of the city ’ s most beautiful architectural structure , and now houses professional offices space and retail .
When Sackman bought the former Seacoast Trust Co . building on Cookman he wanted to
Asbury Park ' s Zombie Walk is one of the quirky events that gives the city its unique vibe .
locate a hotel there . Since he was unable to obtain city approval , however , he now is considering selling . But his dream of opening a hotel is still alive . Sackman acquired the old Savoy . He
and Karas will continue to push for city approval .
They remain committed to Asbury Park ’ s rebirth . “ It ’ s amazing to see the change in this city and how far it ’ s come ,” Karas said .
The iconic Asbury Park Wonder Bar featuring their mascot " Tillie ".
Photo : Getty Images / iStockphoto / luvemakphoto Photo : Getty Images / iStockphoto / Brian Logan
10 COMMERCE www . commercemagnj . com