Gregory Andrus is an author, speaker, photographer and founder of Portraits of the Jersey Shore.
Having overcome alcoholism and homelessness as a young man, he has found a deep faith and a ruling conviction that every single person has dignity and worth. He highlights the dignity of everyday people he meets and interviews along the coastal towns of New Jersey and shares their portraits and stories with more than 35,000 followers on Facebook and Instagram.
Since his childhood, Andrus has revered lifeguards, the guardians of the sea. In summer 2021, he set out to create a book to honor these saltwater warriors. More than 50 lifeguards from over 20 beach patrols in Ocean and Monmouth counties were photographed and interviewed for this new book.
The resulting book, “Sand, Sea & Rescue: Lifeguards of the Jersey Shore,” released in summer 2022, includes beautiful film portraits of the lifeguards, both text and audio interviews, an illustrated glossary, and a memorial for the two lifeguards who died while on duty last summer.
During the free event, Andrus will discuss the book during this special presentation for Friends of Ortley Beach. Copies will be available for sale and signature.
You can learn more about Gregory and his work as an author and street portrait photographer by following him on Facebook and Instagram at Portraits of the Jersey Shore, or via his website at https://potjs.com/.
***Friends of Ortley Beach will hold its September membership meeting after the event. You DO NOT have to be a member of Friends of Ortley Beach to attend the speaker event or membership meeting.*** New members are always welcomed.
