Something is changing at the NJ Shore – Have you noticed?

As a lifelong resident of the Jersey Shore, I have both good and bad memories when it comes to the summer season. Since it's always easier to talk about the negative, let's begin with the positives.

For one, the weather is warm and the days are long. And let's be honest, who doesn't love that about the summer season? I know I love it.

Another positive is that our great New Jersey businesses are open. Now it's not that they're not open during the off-season, as some are year-round businesses. But a vast majority of the boardwalks and beaches are only open now, and it's great to see.

With that said, there are differences between some of the off-season crowds when compared to the summer ones. Yes, the Shore region makes more money now, but that's only part of it.

There is clearly a change happening with our Shore crowds that's not necessarily a good trend. And there's no way I can be the only one who's been noticing this lately.

Yes, sometimes violence breaks out, and that's very unfortunate. But looking beyond that, there's something else that's been happening. Have you noticed?

If you haven't, then that's good. But the next time you're there, keep your ears open, especially around the younger crowds.

Less friendly, more rowdy

This was something that happened recently in Long Branch. My family and I had to make a stop at one of the businesses along the boardwalk. A quick stop, but still one we were looking to enjoy.

It was crowded, but that's nothing new during the summer. However, one thing I did notice that was different for this area was the mannerisms of many of the older teens and young adults.

Despite having our kids with us, the sheer amount of foul language and rudeness among many of these groups of teens was, to put it simply, disgusting.

Learning some manners

We come to Pier Village every once in a while and have always throughout the years. But as time has gone by, it's definitely becoming noticeable how disrespectful younger adults are becoming, and it's sad.

When it comes to being aware of your surroundings, some of these older teens and young adults seem oblivious to the fact that there are families with young kids among them. I don't think I've ever seen so much disrespect before, especially here.

Now, could this have just been one of those weekends when more of these rude groups were around? It's possible. But when you consider how many issues the Jersey Shore has already seen this year involving misconduct, it's hard to believe this was a one-day thing.

Nobody got out of control at this particular time, which is always good. But considering how rude these younger people were, that particular day was not welcoming for those who wanted to enjoy time with their families.

Have you noticed?

Look, I love the Jersey Shore at all times of the year. I wouldn't be living here if I didn't. And I know the possibility of rowdiness and rudeness will spike up during the summer months. After all, the Shore is a popular vacation hotspot.

But I can't help but notice some of the younger crowds seem to be getting ruder and ruder as time passes, and I can't imagine I'm the only one who has noticed.

ALSO READ: Exploring The Misunderstood Words And Phrases Of NJ Culture

Is this really the case, or is being a parent and getting older simply changing what I'm noticing around me? I also wonder if this is happening at other vacation destinations along the beaches in Jersey. I sure hope not.

More are coming to NJ

Could this perceived change also have something to do with those moving to the state? Maybe some of our newer Jersey Shore locals are becoming part of the problem (or perhaps, newer Garden State residents in general that flock to the Shore).

The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 Sunday morning host & content contributor Mike Brant. Any opinions expressed are his own.