Montauk Pioneer - August 29, 2008

There is a picturesque beach in Amagansett with an unusual name, Asparagus Beach, named after the long, willowy, asparagus-like shadows that tall beach patrons cast, stealing their way across the sand at sunset. Lisa Levitin summered in Amagansett as a girl, often enjoying this beach with her friends as the local hangout. Over the years, she thought the name would be a great marketing tool. "I thought it was so cute, catchy. I loved the name." Together with Joe Kazickas and Matt Frisbie, Lisa found the perfect niche for the perfect name; a clothing line. The Asparagus Beach clothing line was introduced in June of 2007, but just one week later Lisa was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, placing the dream on hold. One year later, cancer free, full of new born enthusiasm and a renewed lease on life, Lisa jumped full throttle back on the horse. July of 2008 saw the fruition of combined hard work, creativity, and a great idea with a launch party at The Stephen Talkhouse; placing Asparagus Beach clothing right back on track.

This ultra comfortable line of casual beach wear is made from 100% Peruvian cotton; creating the ideal mix of comfort, style, and Fun! Lisa was inspired by the beauty of the Hamptons, "the whole lifestyle, really." She wanted to create a clothing line that encompassed the easygoing, casual, stress free way of life found along Hamptons' scenic beaches. With a combined retro/humorous approach, Lisa and her team have produced clothing filled with beachfront appeal, "Very hip n hot surfer dudes are wearing our stuff!" When asked about her inspiration, Lisa replied, "I wanted to incorporate fun, humor...stuff that makes someone smile." As the characters on her T shirts ride the waves on an asparagus, or two beach babes stand alongside an asparagus (who knew you could do so much with a vegetable), it appears she hit her mark! Richard Lewis, comedic icon, loves Asparagus Beach. "I am allergic to asparagus but not to Asparagus Beach T-Shirts. I can't wear enough of them. They are the coolest! I wear them as often as I can and when I'm dressed in black as usual, the T-shirt is close to my heart underneath my suit."

Asparagus Beach products can now be found in 8 different store locations throughout the Hamptons. Among them; Kailani and Share With, both in Montauk. It should also be noted that the barmaids at Cyril's and Cyril himself are often seen sporting Asparagus Beach T shirts. Lisa's goals for the future? "I would like to be a nationally recognized brand. Get into department stores." There has also been talk of opening their own, all Asparagus Beach, store! The Spring/Summer 2009 line is currently in the works, which Lisa assured me is full of some really great, super cool new looks.

One of the greatest attributes Asparagus Beach has going for them is their attention to the environment. 10% of all website sales will be donated to organizations that support a healthier planet. Made of organic materials; you can wear one of their fun and comfortable shirts; feeling peace knowing that you are actively protecting our planet! It would appear that Lisa Levitin's spirit and energy are boundless. While barely missing a step, Lisa has helped create a growing business, beaten cancer, and is filled with the desire to spread her joy. In September she will be driving a support van with Amazon Heart Thunder as women ride Harleys across the country to San Francisco in support of breast cancer victims and survivors. She also hinted at ideas for helping celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. It appears the sky is the limit for Lisa and Asparagus Beach clothing. Check them out online at www.asparagusbeach.com.