SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | June 6, 2024

Jam-Packed with June Events

Bag Ban 2 Years Later: Has It Helped?

LPGA Tournament Swings into Town Land ll Causes Stink, Lawsuit

Turtle Crossing: Give Terrapins a Brake

Furnish your Home with Confidence when we help you envision, coordinate, and enhance your dream of stylish coastal serenity!

Where have our manners gone?

From the Editor

"Where are your manners?" my mother would exclaim if I got out of line as a child. That stern reminder would jolt me back to my senses, making me realize I wasn't acting or speaking as I should. It was a simple, yet effective way to instill a sense of decorum and respect in me.

Today, it seems as though the entire world has forgotten their manners. From mocking each other and making cruel remarks on social media to threatening celebrities if they decline to take a photo, the lack of basic respect is alarming.

I grew up in a simpler time. In the 1970s, if someone wanted to insult or berate you, they had to do it to your face. Sure, it happened, but it wasn't as insidious or easy for the bully. Today, there are countless ways to be cruel and mock one another with a mere click on a phone. The

anonymity and distance provided by the internet seem to embolden the worst behaviors in people.

The incident last week involving Jason and Kylie Kelce was particularly jarring. How could anyone feel so entitled that they would threaten another person, proclaiming they will never be welcomed in an entire town? This appalling behavior was caught on video, but I have to wonder: how many similar incidents happen every day that don’t make national news?

ce - (609) 788-4812

Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com

Executive Editor - Cindy Christy Fertsch (609) 705-5323 shorelocalcindy@gmail.com

Copy Editors - James FitzPatrick, Holly Fertsch

Advertising Sales - Meg Perry (609)425-5407 shorelocalmeg@gmail.com

Web Designer - Holly Martin Digital Marketing Manager - Benjamin Howard

Contributors – Charles Eberson, Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Fred Miller, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, , Gabriella Bancheri, Elisa Jo Eagan, David Setley, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Whitney Ullman, Raymond Tyler, Bill Quain, Chuck Darrow, Bruce Klauber, Lisa Zaslow-Segelman, Julia Train, Erica Hoffman, John Loreaux Mainland edition cover photo by Bob Fertsch. Coastal edition cover photo by Andy Hutchinson.

with the constant stream of insults hurled through cyberspace makes me consider how difficult and anxiety-inducing it must be to grow up in this era of nonstop communication. When I came home from school as a teenager, I was off-limits to my peers. They couldn't access me unless they called the house phone and asked my parents if they could speak to me. I had solid gatekeepers around me. With cell phones today, it is incredibly easy for kids to text, chat, comment, and more without anyone seeing what they're doing. There are even messages that disappear after being viewed. The thought of it alone puts me on edge.

What happened to the golden rule: treat others as you would like to be treated? We teach our children that bullying is wrong, yet how many adults hide behind screens, making cruel comments on social media? If you've ever belonged to a Facebook group, you know things can get nasty fast. It appears some people are just looking for opportunities to fight with one another.

Monitoring these groups to keep things civil can be exhausting. Dealing

The digital age has undoubtedly brought many advancements and conveniences, but it has also created a breeding ground for bad manners and bullying. We must strive to reclaim the respect and kindness that seem to have been lost in our rapid technological advancement. Let's remind ourselves and each other of the importance of manners, both online and offline, and work towards being kinder and more respectful to one another.

Peace & Love,

Cindy

Terrapin nesting has begun: how you can help

By Steffen Klenk

Living in South Jersey means being surrounded by a diverse ecosystem. Our backyard is home to some of the most unique species of wildlife you won’t find in many other places. The diamondback terrapins are beginning to re-appear ahead of a busy nesting season, and work has been underway to ensure their safety.

Last month, the Margate Terrapin Rescue Project worked diligently to repair and replace roadside barriers along the Margate Causeway. Kimberly Weich says that 43 volunteers, including members of the Mainland national Honor Society and other high school students, assisted in the day’s efforts. “We had to retrench several twenty-foot sections of split barriers and put them back into place,” Weich said.

According to the Rescue Project’s website, the group is dedicated to conserving the local diamondback population through various initiatives, daily road patrols and education outreach.

Diamondback species can be found up and down the e astern Seaboard and along the Gulf states. Their diet mainly consists

hatchlings are most vulnerable to encounters with other wildlife, including land and sea creatures. They also keep other ecosystems in check, such as periwinkle, a perennial plant that can decimate salt marsh grass.

of hard-shelled crustaceans such as clams, aquatic snails, and blue mussels. Their most notorious predators include foxes, raccoons, and shorebirds. Turtle eggs and small

In recent years, the organization has received several calls from individuals who have seen diamondback terrapins but may misidentify the species for sea turtles. Weich stresses the importance of keeping the species in its natural environment. “We don’t want to drop them off on the beach or take them home and keep them as pets,” she said.

Terrapins begin mating as early as March. In early to mid-June, the female will start looking for a spot to nest her eggs. When she finds a spot that is most suitable, she will dig a hole with her back feet and lay her eggs upwards of three clutches, containing anywhere from four to 20 eggs at one time. The nesting period typically lasts well into the summer.

During nesting season, adult female terrapins will attempt to cross roadways in search of nesting sites. unfortunately, these turtles are most prone to getting struck by fast-approaching vehicles. Terrapins are also at risk of habitat destruction due to coastal development, particularly salt marsh draining, loss of sand dunes, and coastal waterway use.

Along the barrier islands and back bay communities, you may notice turtle crossing signs. Terrapins usually travel to spread their habitat, lay eggs, or find a mate. Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure the species’ survival and safety. For populations to thrive, turtles must live a long time and lay more eggs.

The Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor is actively involved in helping conserve the diamondback terrapin species, installing more than 11 miles of barrier fencing along roads bordering salt marshes in and around Cape May County. Road patrols have also been seen in various commu -

nities monitoring terrapin activity.

In recent months, the organization has been stepping up its conservation efforts thanks to a grant from the n ortheast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. The study will monitor the movements of the diamondback terrapin population along open bay and coastal salt marsh systems, filling important gaps that will improve understanding of the species’ distribution and aid in their protection.

If you spot a diamondback terrapin attempting to cross the road, the Wetlands Institute recommends slowing down and waiting for the terrapin to cross or carefully carrying

turtles across the road in the direction it is already heading. The female terrapins may be carrying eggs, so be gentle. Be sure not to carry terrapins over long distances as their internal GPS, or homing senses, are short range.

For those interested in learning more, there are useful tips and information available via the Wetlands Institute’s website at the following link: https://wetlandsinstitute.org/ conservation/terrapin-conservation/ terrapins-what-to-do/. Additional information and resources can also be found by visiting the Margate Terrapin Rescue Project online at www. margateterrapinrescue.org.

Photos by Steffen Klenk

Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.

‘Where Eddie Lives’

Filming of the new ‘Cruisers’ movie to begin June 21

You can feel the history in the summertime breezes off the bay in Somers Point where one of the greatest of all rock ‘n’ roll movies, “ eddie and The Cruisers” was filmed at the famous rock ‘n’ roll bar, Tony Marts, 42 years ago.

now the new PBS movie produced by Steve Rogers, “Where eddie Lives” will spotlight a concert performance by John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band, to be filmed on the Somers Point Beach July 4. PBS is seeking to interview selected participants who would like to share their thoughts and feelings about the movie. Those interested in being interviewed should report to Tavern on the Bay, 800 Bay Ave. in Somers Point from 4-6 p.m. on June 21.

Space will be afforded to the production company PBS so they can take interviews for selection and use in the movie. Interviews with the original director of the movie, Marty Davidson, and with Carmen Marotta of the Tony Mart family who owned the venue where much of the South Jersey scenes were filmed, will

be included, along with several other renowned actors and performers.

The July 4 concert features John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band performing their multi platinum soundtrack from the movie. Following the excitement of being part of the movie, beach concert fans can enjoy a full evening of music from The Billy Walton Band. Fitting for the occasion, as many people think Billy Walton may in fact be eddie Wilson! n onetheless, it will be a great concert and a magical evening at the top outdoor concert in the uS, The AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point! The first concert

begins June 14 with the southern soul and Americana rock sounds of Toronto big band, Bywater Call, continuing on through to the Fourth of July with a performance by one of the greatest dance bands in the n ortheast, The Dane Anthony Band on June 28. The Mardi Gras in July concert is July 5, featuring one of the most famous Cajun fiddlers, Waylon Thibodeaux, with Ben Levine, n ew Orleans R&B band, and Jersey Gumbo Festival on Monday July 8 when many of South Jersey’s best chefs will compete for the coveted Mardi Gras King Chef. Somers Point is where the legacy of rock ‘n’ roll lives on! For more information visit tonymart.com somerspointbeachconcerts.com Let the good times roll!

Photos by John Loreaux

Paid for by Ruffu for Commissioner, PI Box 3039, Margate NJ

New Jersey’s Plastic Bag Ban, Two Years Later: How’s It Working?

By Marjorie Preston

In May 2022, New Jersey enacted

a ban on single-use plastic bags. Supporters say the ban is a success. Critics say it’s actually increased plastic consumption. As in most things, it depends on whom you ask.

n november 2020, n ew Jersey

Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation to ban the distribution of single-use plastic bags by supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, and other retail outlets

“We rarely find any plastic bags on cleanups anymore.”

—Amy Cook-Menzel, communications manager, Atlantic County Utilities Authority

and businesses in the state.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 19, 2024

Murphy said the ban addressed “the problem of plastic pollution head-on, with solutions that will help mitigate climate change and strengthen our environment for future generations.” eighteen months later, on May 5, 2022, the ban took effect.

After some initial grumbling, n ew Jerseyans adjusted, and learned to either carry their own shopping bags or buy heavier-weight bags at checkout (Wawa charges 35 cents for “value-priced reusable bags”; supermarkets charge $1 to $2 for shopping totes). But two years since the ban began, opinions are still divided about its success.

In January, a report from Cleveland-based research firm the Freedonia Group indicated that plastic use in the state has actually tripled since the ban, from 53 million pounds to 151 million pounds a year, as consumers are forced to buy bags made with 15 to 20 times the plastic of single-use bags.

According to the report, the sturdier bags must be reused from 11 to 59 times to produce a net environmental benefit, but are typically discarded after one or two uses.

amount of plastic bags we find as litter has dropped dramatically in two years since the ban.

“We rarely find any plastic bags on cleanups anymore—they used to be one of the top items, and were particularly difficult to remove because of how they wrap around trees, bushes, etc.”

Statistics provided by the ACuA suggest that the ban could cut single-use plastic-bag litter in the state by at least 33 percent overall. That means 2.7 billion fewer single-use plastic bags will be introduced into the environment, and the 13.8 million

gallons of oil that would have been used to manufacture them will also be saved.

The Freedonia study was initially reported in Forbes, which failed to mention that it was commissioned by the American Recyclable Plastic Bag Alliance (ARPBA), a lobbying group which, according to its website, “promotes the use of plastic bags for consumers and the planet.” (Forbes later made the connection).

The ARPBA also contends that single-use bags account for less than 1 percent of items collected at litter cleanups, and have the fewest environmental impacts “when disposed of correctly.”

Thumbs Up from ACUA

By contrast, according to Amy Cook-Menzel of the Atlantic County u tilities Authority (ACuA), “The

And while the Freedonia study drew its conclusions in part on consumers tossing reusable bags as readily as single-use bags, the ACuA says there are many ways to responsibly dispose of the bags, if they start to pile up.

For example, the Community FoodBank of n ew Jersey and nearly 300 of its network partners (food pantries, soup kitchens, etc.) happily accept donations of “clean, new, or gently used reusable shopping bags.” Some retailers and supermarkets also collect bags for reuse.

In addition, many grocers and food purveyors who once automatically bagged pickup or delivery orders are now asking shoppers to opt out of bag use. The ACuA itself accepts

“There have to be more studies done, to come up with something else that is biodegradable, yet strong.”

—Sheila Dean, director, Marine Mammal Stranding Center

clean reusable bags at its administrative building (Building no. 1) in the environmental Park, 6700 Delilah Road in egg Harbor Township.

Data from Long Branch-based Clean Ocean Action also suggests a positive impact since the ban, according to Rebecca Turygan, environmental coordinator for Atlantic County Clean Communities. “In 2022, after the bag ban, they did not have plastic bags as one of their Top 12 items collected for the first time since 2007”—down 37 percent in a single year. And last year, “they averaged less than one bag per volunteer at their beach sweeps throughout the state.”

Meanwhile, a new report from three nonprofits— e nvironment America, the u.S. Public Interest Research Group education Fund, and the Frontier Group—has found that bans in n ew Jersey, Vermont and three cities, Philadelphia, Portland, Oregon, and Santa Barbara, Calif., have already reduced the number of single-use plastic bags used each year by around 6 billion—enough to circle the planet 42 times.

Global Scale

A world leader in recycling is headquartered right here in new Jersey, at Trenton-based TerraCycle. The company specializes in hard-to-recycle waste such as coffee pods, fast-food sauce packets, chip bags, and even cigarette butts, as well as single-use plastic bags. It enlists big businesses that use these items, and gets them on board with helping to reduce and recycle them.

So why isn’t there more recycling in the old-fashioned sense, when consumers used to return glass bottles for a nickel? TerraCycle founder and CeO Tom Szaky cites two main reasons: ease and convenience.

“Waste is a modern idea and a fast-growing crisis,” Szaky says. “We create products that nature doesn’t have systems to digest. We buy things we don’t need, use them for a short period of time, and throw them away. The vast majority of this material is burned in incinerators, buried in landfills, or littered.”

each year, he says, humans “use the resources of nearly two planets,

and throw out over 2 billion tons of trash.”

He points to his company’s Loop program as a latter-day version of the milk-bottle solution. Loop enables any manufacturer to “create products in reusable, returnable packaging and any retailer (to) sell those products to consumers.” Shoppers who buy the products pay a deposit for the reusable packaging, and get a refund when they return the empty containers.

However, Szaky adds, “We can’t recycle our way out of the waste crisis. To prevent waste and create a truly circular economy, we must transition away from disposability altogether.”

Under the Sea

By one estimate, 33 billion pounds of plastic enter the marine environment every year. Topping the list of items most ingested by marine mammals are single-use plastic bags, balloons, plastic sheeting, food wrappers, and fishing line.

u nfortunately, to marine mammals and fish, single-use plastic bags, floating in the water, can look a lot like food. An exhibit at the Adventure Aquarium in Camden shows plastic bags bobbing in the water next to white ghost jellyfish. The two look virtually identical.

Sheila Dean, director of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine, has issued special pleas against celebratory balloon releases, and also entreats consumers to slice open disposable six-pack rings, which often entrap seals, seagulls, turtles, and other animals.

“I don’t really know if there’s a way to mitigate this,” Dean says of the plastic crisis. “It’s a tough situation. They’ve come up with stronger plastic bags that last even longer and don’t disintegrate. And they can’t keep using paper, because that’s cutting down forests.

“There have to be more studies done, to come up with something else that’s biodegradable, yet strong.”

As of today, 12 u .S. states and more than 500 municipalities have banned single-use plastic bags, and more are likely to join. Consumer awareness is also critical, and ac-

“We can’t recycle our way out of the waste crisis.”

—Tom Szaky, CEO, TerraCycle

tion across all quarters of society. “Recycling can become much more successful,” says Szaky, “but it will take action from consumers, brands, retailers, governments, etc.”

ACuA’s Cook-Menzel urges consumers to be more thoughtful about their use of plastics.

“A lot can be recycled, and that’s great, but isn’t it better to reduce the amount of waste you’re creating? Do you really need to buy water in bottles? We have great water here. Can you get a water filter or use those bottles again? When you go to a restaurant, take your own

container for leftovers. Reuse your (convenience store) coffee cup.

“So many little actions on their own don’t necessarily have a great impact,” she says, but they add up. “Recycling is one of the easiest things we can do to have an impact.”

Marjorie Preston is a business writer, editor, ghostwriter and compulsive reader, who gobbles up books like potato chips. For more information (and more book reviews), visit marjorieprestonwriting.com.

The Steadman Group Has YOU Covered..

Farmers Markets

Brigantine Farmers Market

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Brigantine Community School parking lot Sheridan Blvd.

The Brigantine Farmers Market will be open to customers on Saturdays, rain or shine, until Labor Day weekend. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket.

EHT Community Farmers Market

▶Sundays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Atlantic County Library 1 Swift Dr. Just Organics Marketplace and Honeytree Health host a Community Farmers Market on Sundays, featuring a variety of local pesticide-free farmers, food vendors, artists, crafters, music, and fun activities. Support family farmers. n ow through Sept. 1. For more information, visit thehoneytree.net or e-mail wellness@ thehoneytree.net.

Galloway Green Market

▶Thursdays, June 27 – Sept. 5, 4 – 7 p.m.

Historic Smithville Village Greene 615 e . Moss Mill Rd.

Go Green Galloway hosts their weekly Green Market, Thursdays through Sept. 5, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates.

Margate Farmers Market

▶Thursdays, June 20 – Aug. 29, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Steve and Cookies Parking Lot 9700 Amherst Ave.

The Margate Farmers Market is preparing for the 2024 season. Markets will be open Thursdays through Aug. 29. For more information, visit margatehasmore.com.

Ocean City Farmers Market

▶Wednesdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean City Tabernacle Grounds

Asbury Avenue from 5th – 6th Streets

Visit dozens of vendors on the grounds of the Tabernacle, and crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave. Wednesdays through Sept. 4. For more information, call 1-800-BeACHnJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.

Somers Point Farmers Market

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. 12 p.m.

Somers Mansion 1000 Shore Rd.

Somers Point Farmers Market is open Saturdays on the grounds of the beautiful and historic Somers Mansion. For more information, go to visitsomerspoint.com.

Ventnor City Farmers Market ▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

St. James Church n ewport & Atlantic Ave.

The parking lot at St. James Church brims with 60+ farmers, food vendors, and crafters who offer fresh, seasonal picks, delicious artisan foods, baked goods, beverages, and beautiful handmade wares. Open Fridays through Aug. 30. Visit vcfm. org for more.

Atlantic City, Brigantine, Margate, Ventnor, Longport

HERO Campaign Launches Summer Mocktail Contest

In memory of a young Navy officer from Egg Harbor Township

This summer, voters at the Jersey Shore will be able to select their favorite non-alcoholic mocktails from drinks submitted by 25 bars, restaurants, and casinos in the Great HeROtini Mocktail Challenge.

The competition is sponsored by and benefits the nonprofit John R. elliott H eRO Campaign to raise funds and awareness for the important role of designated drivers in preventing drunk driving fatalities and injuries nationwide. The public will be able to donate and vote online for their favorite mocktails between Memorial Day and Labor Day at www.herotini.org.

and donation supports the H eRO Campaign’s life-saving mission to promote responsible and designated driving. Funds raised also support the Holiday H eRO eS Safe Ride Program, which provides discounted rides in partnership with uber for patrons of

Bartenders from each participating establishment will create unique mocktails, vying for the coveted H eROtini Cup. Throughout the summer, patrons can visit participating bars and restaurants to sample the inventive mocktails and vote for their favorites. each vote

participating H eRO bars and taverns over the Thanksgiving to n ew Year holidays.

“We brought back the H eROtini Challenge by popular demand,” said Bill elliott, the father of navy ensign John elliott, who was killed by a drunk driver in July 2000 while traveling

home from Annapolis, Md. two months after graduating from the united States naval Academy.

Thousands of voters donated over $25,000 in 2019, the last time the competition was held before being interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Print advertising and social media will publicize the contest and display a QR code that will connect voters to the HeROtini voting page, where they

BEST INSURED Rates

can see pictures of all the competing drinks and bars, including some with creative names such as The Point’s no Buzzzz Colada, Ocean Casino Resorts’ Blackberry n ojito, or Harbor Pines’ ube Hv (You behave).

e lliott said the idea for the H eROtini was his wife’s invention to promote and recognize designated drivers who do not drink when they provide safe rides home for their friends and families. “They are the real ‘Life of the Party’ and the cure for drunk driving,” noted Muriel elliott.

The elliott’s son was killed in a head-on collision with a driver who had been arrested by police for Du I three hours earlier on the evening of July 21, 2000, then released to a man who enabled his friend to drive again while still intoxicated instead of driving him home. ensign elliott was driving home to egg Harbor Township for his mother’s birthday and was planning to enter n aval Flight School that fall. For more information on the H eRO Campaign, visit www. herocampaign.org

Summer Tutoring

Events and Happenings

Multiday events

Holy Trinity Greek Festival

▶Thursday, June 6 – Sunday, June 9

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church 7004 Ridge Ave. egg Harbor Township

The 40th Annual Greek Fest is fun for all and features all your favorite authentic Greek food, homemade pastries, amusement rides, and plenty of activities. enjoy live music from DJ Ahmed Khan on Saturday evening, with Greek Dance Performances Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night. Free

6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Ocean City Free Public Library 1735 Simpson Ave.

Phillips will share the adventures of the pioneers who blazed trails from the eastern united States into the new untamed territories of the West: Oregon, utah, and California. Sessions will respectively follow four journeys: the Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, California Trail, and After the Trails. Sessions will be held in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. Free and Open to the Public. For more information, visit www.oceancitylibrary.

This Biblical story of Jacob’s sons comes to life on stage. enjoy this amazing rendition set to the music of Andrew Lloyd Weber with lyrics by Tim Rice. u pcoming shows are Friday, June 7 & Saturday, June 8 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 9 at 2 p.m. Purchase tickets online at www.gatewaybythebay.org.

Dinner-Theater Showcase: Playreadings and Plays ▶Friday, June 14, 5:30 p.m. & Saturday, June 15, 12:30 p.m. Fannie Lou Hamer event Room at Stockton 3711 Atlantic Ave. Atlantic

Viking Rowing Club in Ventnor is seeking rowers of all levels ages 11-adult. Coaching is free by Bob Kerstetter with over 35 years of experience in high school, college and masters rowing. Club dues to the boathouse for its use must be paid. Practice will be 6 a.m. Spring through Fall. Call/Text Bob Kerstetter (609) 226-5139 for additional details.

Ave. Atlantic City

Members of the public are invited to attend a dedication ceremony for the Bernie Friedman Memorial. The statue honors the sacrifices of u.S. Army Staff Sergeant Bernard I. Friedenberg and all other Americans who served their country during World War II.

Wonder’s Birthday Bash

▶6 – 9 p.m.

Gillian’s Wonderland Pier 6th St. & Boardwalk, Ocean City

Celebrate Wonder Bear’s Bash as Gillian’s celebrates 93 years in Ocean City with fireworks starting at 9 p.m. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.

Saturday, June 8

DRCF Paddle for a Cause

▶8 a.m.

Ski Beach Dorset & Burk Ave. Ventnor

The Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation’s Paddle for a Cause is an allday event that starts at 8 a.m. on Ski Beach. More than 100 stand-up and prone paddleboarders will embark on an over 20-mile journey around Absecon Island. The event continues from 12 – 3 p.m. with live music, food, a beer garden, and vendors. The event is open to the public. Proceeds from the event benefit individuals battling cancer and their families. Sign up and learn more at www.thedrcf.org/paddle.

OCNJ Emergency Responder 5K

▶8:30 a.m.

18th St. & Haven Ave.

This 5K and 1 Mile event will start and finish on the Ocean City bike path. The Kids event will take place on the field at 18th & Haven. Raceday registration will be open from 7 – 7:45 a.m. Register online and learn more at www.ocnj.us/race-events.

Yard Sale at Risley Homestead

▶8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

8 Virginia Ave. n orthfield

Hosted by the Atlantic County Historical Society. The event will include a yard sale and free tours of the historic Risley Homestead. Proceeds will benefit the Historical Society. Donations are welcome. Rain Date: Sunday, June 9. For more information, visit www.atlanticcountyhistoricalsociety. org.

World Ocean Day

▶9 a.m.

Ocean Casino Resort 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Celebrate World Ocean Day with Ocean Casino Resort; take action to restore and protect our big blue planet and celebrate all that the ocean does for us. Snag a complimentary Ocean gift, check out the art of Alex Wexler, and visit with non-profits, including Love Blue, the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, and Absecon Lighthouse. For more, visit www. theoceanac.com/world-ocean-dayocean-casino-resort.

Smithville GM Auto Show

▶10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Historic Smithville 615 e . Moss Mill Rd.

Hosted by the Boardwalk Corvettes of A.C. Free spectator admission. More information is available at www.historicsmithville.com.

AC Pride 3rd Annual Rainbow Ride & March for Equality

▶10 a.m.

Ventnor and Atlantic City Boardwalks

Hosted by AC Pride, the event will begin with a Rainbow Ride starting at n ewport Ave. & the Boardwalk in Ventnor, traveling up the boardwalk. Marchers will join along Iowa Ave. & the Boardwalk, in front of Tropicana. The event will culminate with a flag raising at Rainbow Beach, Boardwalk & Park Place, at 11:45 a.m.

Longport Museum Exhibit Kickoff

▶11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Longport Borough Hall 2305 Atlantic Ave.

Come celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Betty Bacharach Home for Afflicted Care at a special exhibit to be held at Longport Borough Hall. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.

Atlantic City Flea Market

▶12 – 6 p.m.

Showboat Hotel 801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Mark your calendars for the Showboat Flea Market this Saturday. Don’t miss out on a day filled with vendors, food, music, giveaways, and so much more. The event will be held in the hotel lobby.

Great Pride Day Festival

▶2:30 p.m.

Brighton Park

The Inaugural Great Pride Festival will be held this Saturday. Activities will include a live DJ and entertainment, food, drinks, resources and more. Hosted by the City of Atlantic City and the Great Pride Committee. Rain date: Sunday, June 9. For more information, visit www.acpride.org.

Welcome Summer Bonfire in Brigantine

▶7:30 p.m.

26th Street Beach

Join Brigantine for an evening of fun, friends, and seaside delights. The city will kick off the summer season with a Bonfire on the Beach. Gather around the fire and celebrate the arrival of summer in style with the sound of the waves, the sand between your toes, and the glow and warmth of a bonfire amidst the twilight sky. For more information, visit www.brigantinechamber.com.

Monday, June 10

We Walk Somers Point

▶8:30 a.m.

Somers Point Community Center 22-98 n . Ambler Rd.

The City of Somers Point is host-

ing a walking club each Monday at 8:30 a.m. with the purpose of promoting health and creating opportunities for people to pursue fitness goals while meeting neighbors. The group will meet at different starting points each week. Open to all residents of Somers Point. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ SomersPoint or email dshallcross@ spgov.org.

Women’s Coffee and Conversation

▶10:30 a.m.

Katz JCC 501 n . Jerome Ave. Margate

↘Continued on 18

GRAND OPENING

Join JFS Village specialist Tina Serota and a host of professional speakers as they discuss issues that impact a woman’s ability to live her best life. This month will focus on Women in War, Our Voices, Our Hearts with JFS D eI Officer Vickie Perry. Attend in-person at the Katz JCC Boardroom. RSVP by June 6 by calling (609) 287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Memory Connections

▶1 – 2:30 p.m.

Katz JCC 501 n . Jerome Ave. Margate

Join JFS Village specialist Tina Serota for a gathering of caregivers of loved ones with dementia and the person living with the disease. Caretakers will participate in a support group led by a trained professional while their loved one will enjoy a socialization activity. Light refreshments will be served. Attend in-person at the Katz JCC Boardroom. RSVP by June 6 by calling (609) 287-8872 or email tserota@ jfsatlantic.org.

Adult Craft: Polymer Clay Pendants

▶5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Otto Bruyns Public Library 241 W. Mill Rd. northfield

All adults are welcome to join in making Polymer Clay Pendants. All

materials will be provided. The cost is free however space is limited. Attendees must pre-register by calling (609) 646-4476. For additional information, visit www.nflibrary.org.

Movie at the Library

▶6 – 8 p.m.

Longport Library 2305 Atlantic Ave.

Join Longport Library for a screening of "Bob Marley: One Love", the story of how reggae icon Bob Marley overcame adversity, and the journey behind his revolutionary music. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register.

Accessibility Awareness Night

▶7 – 9 p.m.

Absecon united Methodist Church

101 Pitney Rd. Absecon

Join Absecon u MC for their third annual event. This year’s program will include special guests and speakers and will be held in memory of Joe Brown. For additional information, please email abseconumc@gmail.com.

Tuesday, June 11

JFS Village Film Society

▶10:30 a.m.

Join JFS Village Film enthusiast and Cinematic Buff Tom Celandine, and Tina Serota, for a discussion about the George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola movie, "American Graffiti". This 1960s coming of age come -

dy-drama follows a group of teens and their adventures over the course of a single night. The film can be viewed on n etflix and Hulu, and is available at the Ventnor and Margate libraries. This program will be hosted via Zoom. RSVP by June 10 by calling (609) 2878872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Margate Business Association Network Mixer

▶5:30 p.m.

Ventura’s Greenhouse 106 S. Benson Ave.

Hosted by the Margate Business Association, this event is an ideal opportunity for you to build and maintain relationships with your fellow businesses and community members. This event is open to all members of participating Business Associations in Atlantic County. non-members are $25 per person. Learn more at www. margatehasmore.com.

History Talk: Longport Memories ▶6 – 8 p.m.

Longport Library 2305 Atlantic Ave.

Take a trip into the past and join Longport Library for a showcase on the Borough’s history. The event will be held in the Borough Hall and light refreshments will be served. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register.

Somers Point Dance Society ▶7:30 – 10 p.m.

Somers Point Fire Hall 447 Bethel Rd.

Admission is $10 and includes snacks, live musical duos, line dancing, dance mixers, social dancing, and plenty of parking. Come out and kick up your heels, or just listen to good music with good company.

Wednesday, June 12

Somers Point Pinochle Club ▶6 – 8:30 p.m.

Somers Point Senior Center 22 n Ambler Rd.

All are welcome to attend. For more information, go to visitsomerspoint.com and click on events.

Upper Township Green Team Meeting

▶6 p.m.

The upper Township Sustainable Green Team will hold its regular meeting via Zoom this Wednesday. The program will include regular updates on Green Team efforts, including community outreach, healthy community, and sustainability initiatives. Register online at https://tinyurl. com/ uTwpGreenTeam12JuneZoom.

Thursday, June 13

Rotary Club OC-UT Meeting

▶5:30 p.m.

Point Diner 8 MacArthur Blvd.

Somers Point

The Rotary Club of Ocean City- upper Township will hold an in-person dinner meeting. This month’s program will feature a presentation by Felicia Watson, Preservation Specialist with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of n ew Jersey. Please see the OCuT Rotary Club website at www.ocutrotary.org for further information.

Friday, June 14

Chair Yoga

▶10:30 a.m.

Otto Bruyns Public Library 241 W. Mill Rd. northfield

All adults are welcome to join a Chair Yoga class, held on Fri. June 14 & 28. Admission is free but space is limited. Attendees must pre-register by calling (609) 646-4476. For additional information, visit www. nflibrary.org.

Smithville Car Cruise

▶5 – 8 p.m.

Historic Smithville 615 e . Moss Mill Rd.

Cruise on down to Smithville and hang out with fellow car enthusiasts. Drive to the side parking lot of the Village Greene near the covered bridge; you will see orange cones set up. Move a cone and park your car. More information is available at www. historicsmithville.com.

Artists’ Reception at Ocean City Arts Center

▶7 – 8:30 p.m.

1735 Simpson Ave. Ocean City

Join the Ocean City Arts Center for an invitational show inspired by the iconic seascapes of Winslow Homer. Coastal new Jersey has a special connection to his powerful portrayals of turbulent oceans, daring rescues, and crashing waves. Come relive the memories and experience the art firsthand. For more information, visit www.oceancityartscenter.org.

Wednesday, June 19

Seashore Gardens Foundation Golf Tournament

▶1 p.m.

Harbor Pines Golf Club 500 St. Andrews Dr. egg Harbor Township

Golfers and non-golfers are invited to participate in this year’s event. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit Seashore Gardens Foundation, supporting health care programs and supportive services. For more information, visit www.seashoregardens.org. Go to the Support us tab and click on Golf Tournament.

Thursday, June 20

St. Vincent de Paul 23rd Annual Golf Classic

▶1 p.m.

Harbor Pines Golf Club 500 St.

Andrews Dr. egg Harbor Township

Join St. Vincent de Paul Regional School of Mays Landing for a great day of golf, fun, food, and prizes. Registration and lunch begin at 11:34 a.m.; shotgun start at 1 p.m. $160/ player; $600/foursome. Includes green and cart fees, lunch and dinner, beer and bloody mary bar, door prize and gift, and more. Visit www. saintvincentdepaulevents.com to sign up, purchase event tickets, and sponsorship opportunities. Proceeds benefit the students of St. Vincent de Paul Regional School.

Saturday, June 22

Brutus Fluke Tournament

▶6 a.m. – 3 p.m.

eHT elks 1815 Somers Point-Mays Landing Rd. egg Harbor Township

The annual “Brutus” Fluke Tournament returns for its 26th year. The deadline for registration will be at the end of the 6 p.m. captains meeting held on Friday, June 21 at appx. 9 p.m. Registration will include free snacks and a free Awards Buffet after the tournament. All events and weighin will be held at the e gg Harbor Twp. elks. To request a registration form or for additional information, send an e-mail to BrutusBoy6665@ aol.com. You can also pick up registration forms in the Somers Point/ Ocean City area. More information

OCEAN AQUARIUM

is available at www.facebook.com/ BrutusFlukeTournament.

Health and Wellness

Living in the Moment Group

▶Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.

Mental Health Association of Atlantic County 4 e . Jimmie Leeds Rd. Suite 8, Galloway

Slow down and spend an hour with like-minded people working on developing gratitude, self-love, and other character traits that encourage mindfulness. Weekly meetings include meaningful discussions, camaraderie, and a group activity. For more information, call (609) 652-3800 ext. 0306 or email ytran@mhanj.org. Support Group for Individuals with Invisible Illnesses

▶Saturday, June 8, 2 p.m.

Salon Amici Galloway

Join support advocate Abby Ward for an afternoon of connection, awareness, and support. There will be light refreshments, research and education materials, and connection among others. For questions and additional information, please call (609) 214-5777.

NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶Monday, June 10, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph Church 608 Shore Rd. Somers Point

Participants gain the support of

their peers who understand their experience and gain insight into others’ challenges and successes. For more information and to register, please visit www.namiacm.org, or call (609) 741-5125.

MHA Atlantic Family Meetings

▶Thursday, June 13, 10 a.m. These virtual support groups and educational programs are for individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. Day and evening meetings include an educational segment as well as support in the form of stress-reduction, self-care, resources, and advocacy. Meetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday, and 7 p.m. every third Wednesday. Contact Gail Christian at (609) 652-3800 ext. 0301 or gchristian@ mhanj.org to receive a meeting link.

Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, June 19, 1:30 p.m. 6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, Mays Landing

Held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month from 1:30 – 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at (609) 4026966 for more information.

Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.

Auto detailer has a drive to succeed

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

Achildhood dream and passion for cars led Isaac Moshe to creating one of the area’s most successful and thriving auto businesses: Shine Pro Automotive.

Like many young entrepreneurs, Moshe started out going door to door, soliciting business wherever he could. He had the entrepreneurial spirit and drive to succeed early on. He also detailed cars in his mother’s garage along with doing marine detailing.

He officially started Shine Pro Automotive 10 years ago when he went from a modest beginning at a home-based operation, to his first location at 520 n oah’s Road, Pleasantville. It was a big step as he moved from having very little overhead, to a bricks-and-mortar space with all of the expenses.

Moshe did not only survive, he thrived.

In 2020 he grew into his next location at 6677 Black Horse Pike, egg Harbor Township, where he had the vision to expand the services he offered. Shine Pro grew from a basic car detailing service, to an expanded, full-service auto customization menu. They offer window tinting, which provides many benefits to customers from cooling the interior to protection of the interior. It is also a sleek look that many people like. Other services offered include Paint Protection Film.

People invest 10s of thousands of dollars into their vehicles. now they are learning the latest means to protect that substantial investment. One of those new technologies is a clear urethane film (PPF) which is applied directly to the paint surface. With this process, you can keep your car looking brand new for many years.

Moshe has an experienced crew of six technicians who share his passion for detailing. In fact, he has recently grown his facility at 6677 Black Horse Pike to a large, 6,000-square-foot facility to accommodate other services.

One of the additional services

they provide is a ceramic coating. This is another process which protects vehicles with a high-gloss, beautiful shine.

Shine Pro also does full or partial wraps. You can let your imagination go wild to fully customize your vehicle for all of your personal or business needs. Just go in and talk to an expert who can discuss endless possibilities.

If you go to their website at shinepronj.com you can see how you can treat your car to a whole new look and protection or call 609-287-8944. From cars to boats, you can visit Shine Pro Automotive, or they will go to you.

Remember to support local businesses, especially small businesses.

Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com

Early Ocean City history uncovered at the Historical Museum

By Megan Antosy

Ocean City, as we know it today, was founded in 1879. The Lake brothers chose to establish the island as a religious retreat. To this day, the community remains a dry town because of those religious origins.

The early founders of the island prayed under a red cedar tree and discussed how to set up the island.

They established the Ocean City Tabernacle near that tree.

The tree used to be on First Street, located at the Ocean City Tabernacle property. However, it has recently moved to the Ocean City Historical Museum. A section of the actual tree has been preserved and is prominently on display there.

“ n ow we have the tree that everything took place under, [and] we have the history leading up to the

tree,” said John Loeper, co-president of the Ocean City Historical Museum and of the Board of Trustees.

Loeper is referring to the museum’s newest display: the newly-preserved oldest map of Ocean City. It shows what the island was like before it was set up as a resort town.

“We have a 1874 map that was done on sheepskin. The map was in the museum archive. It was getting fainter and fainter. For 20 years, I’ve been going after people at the museum to get it preserved,” explained Loeper. “We finally did that.”

The Richard Somers Chapter 1148 of Questers, a local chapter of a nonprofit dedicated to preserving history, funded this project.

Where can we see the map?

The original map is on display alongside a new mural. Currently unfinished, the mural will be a bigger version of the map with a few additions and embellishments. “We

superimposed where the street numbers are so people can look at the street number and figure out where they are on this map.”

The mural will also superimpose Parker Miller’s property onto the map. “Parker Miller’s house is right around where present day Hoy’s (732 Asbury Avenue) is,” said Loeper. Parker Miller and his family were the first permanent residents of Ocean City. Back when the island was known as Peck’s Beach and was a whaling outpost, he settled there around 1859. He worked as a marine insurance company agent.

What does the map reveal about early Ocean City history?

Once the original map was preserved, “a lot of this knowledge that was on the map became apparent,” Loeper commented.

The map answered the question of where the water source was on the island: around 11th or 12th Street.

The island also wasn’t as large as it

is today. n oticeably missing from the early map is the Gardens.

“The Gardens appeared in 1902. There was a big storm that tore off part of Longport. The sand goes all the way down to the Music Pier,” Loeper explained. “The storm came up real slow — sat over the island for a few hours.”

In other words, storms deposited a large amount of sand, originally in Longport, onto Ocean City. As a result, the barrier island appears to have grown in size. The 1874 map depicts a much smaller island.

The storm also put sand in front of the Life-Saving Station, 801 east 4th Street. This meant that a watch tower was built in front of the station with a surfboat hanging from it. The Life-Saving Station was a precursor to the modern-day Coast Guard and was built in 1886.

The 1874 map depicts the island prior to the Lakes’ land purchase. “The story was never told real clearly. native Americans lived on the island early. Peck was a whaler on the island,” Loeper explained.

Those n ative Americans were the u nalachtigo band of the Lenni-Lenape tribe. u nalachtigo means “People Who Live by the Ocean”. During the summers, they would live on the barrier island and fish there. In the winters, they lived in woodlands on the mainland.

John Peck established a whaling station on the island in the early 1700s. As a result, the island became known as Peck’s Beach. u ntil the Lakes arrived in 1879, Peck’s Beach was frequented mostly by whalers. However, the Lakes did not purchase the entire island. “The rest of the island was owned by (someone) else. The Lakes’ did not buy the whole island. They bought 13th Street to n orth [Street]. They got it from heirs of the Somers family. From 13th Street — south was owned

by other people — Townsend and others,” said Loeper.

Other changes to the Ocean City Historical Museum

There’s a second mural being added to the museum.

In front of the mural, there will be mannequins of lifeguards as well as mannequins displaying period bathing suits. “The mural starts in 1880 and goes to 1969. It shows what people wore on the beach,” Loeper commented.

Loeper also explained some other changes that are coming to the museum. “We’re also going to tie some QR codes to the map. We’re starting to use QR codes throughout the museum as a wayfinding device and as an information source.”

Artist Azelea painted both murals. eventually, there will be an unveiling of the map and a meet and greet with Azelea. Follow the Ocean City Historical Museum on Facebook for more details. The early history of Ocean City mural will also tie into the Museum’s summer exhibit.

“We’re saving Ocean City History — preserving it. But no one really understands what the early history was. This is what it's all about,” said Loeper. “There’s nothing written about the early history of Ocean City.”

Megan Antosy is a 2018 graduate of Penn State Berks with a BA in Professional Writing, a BS in Business with a concentration in Public Relations and Marketing, and a minor in Women’s Studies.She is currently pursuing her master's degree in Strategic Communications and Digital Strategy through the University of Oklahoma. In her spare time she enjoys crocheting, writing, and doing marketing for small businesses. Find her on Instagram @lotusandoctopus.

The Cosmic Connection with Ursula Duffy

Astrology, by definition, is the study of time and light. It is an art and science that has been utilized by humanity for millennia to provide a better understanding of how the Cosmos affect life on earth. One’s personal horoscope, also known as a ‘birth’ or ‘natal chart’, is a snapshot of the Sun, Moon, planets and more at the moment of one’s birth date, time and birth location. This snapshot holds many keys and secrets to one’s personality, characteristics and can be considered one’s personal map, guidebook and lesson plan for life. everything in the Cosmos continues moving beyond the moment of your birth and influences your life in various and cyclical ways. Cycles according to the rhythm of the Sun, Moon, planets, stars, seasons and even at

specific ages influence your life and possibly your attitude towards life. The weekly horoscopes provided here by Shore Local Magazine are written based on your Rising Sign. These horoscopes are intended to provide guidance and insight based on these rhythms and the Cosmic connection to your lived experience. So much is written in the stars! It is my intention that these entries will assist you in deciphering what is encoded within you.

Horoscopes for June 6 – June 12

♈ Aries: A clear channel is necessary to receive and communicate information. Slow down the pace this week purposefully dedicating some time to clearing your mind and journaling your thoughts and dreams.

♉ Taurus: Consistent dedication to your goals will pay off. Set clear intentions about how you want to increase your personal resources, remembering that courageous action and marching to the beat of your own drum will assist in standing out in the crowd.

♊ Gemini: In what ways can you fine tune your self-image in order to present a more authentic version of

FULL SERVICE SHOP

yourself? Challenges to who you are may come from an authority figure in the workplace. Be you and remember that every time you do results in more personal growth.

♋ Cancer: A deeper connection to yourself can be fostered by raising your consciousness. It may be a good time for a vacation, or even a retreat, that will nourish your Soul and result in feelings of deep replenishment.

♌ Leo: What do you really, truly want out of your life? It’s never too late to create a new vision for your future. Find your tribe and connect with people who really see you and make your heart sing, even if that means a career or relationship change.

♍ Virgo: An exciting, new chapter in your work lies ahead. Deepening the relationships to people that support you, and pruning the ones that do not, can be challenging yet pertinent parts of the process.

♎ Libra: If you’ve been pondering higher education, long-distance travel, teaching or publishing an artistic project, now’s the time to decide to go for it! Fresh, new energy awaits you saying yes and committing to moving forward.

♏ Scorpio: A more intimate, deeper dive into the mystery of yourself, your partner, your fears, your mortality or even your innate intuition can create a rewarding experience. Satisfy the curiosity of the new yearning within you.

♐ Sagittarius: If your closest relationships and partnerships do not feel like home, it’s time to move on. If your heart is infused with warmth it’s a yes, if not take action and usher in the opportunity for a new beginning.

♑ Capricorn: Feeling is healing and repressed emotions can stay stuck in the body causing disease. If you have not been communicating

or speaking your truth, which can affect your health, now’s a good time to boss up and take care of business.

♒ Aquarius: There’s a big creative force brewing inside of you that wants to be birthed into the world. Overcome the confidence obstacles you’re facing and allow your rebellious flag to fly high. Only you can make this creative contribution to humanity.

♓ Pisces: Staying grounded during times of intensity can be difficult. It’s important to be able to decompress and retreat in the privacy of your own home. Create a space for retreat if you don’t already have one, or perhaps set intentions now for a new space more in alignment with your needs and sensitivities.

Weekly Summary:

Thursday’s Gemini n ew Moon (June 6 at 8:37 a.m.) is a breath of fresh air for our minds and relationships, as long as we face the reality of and take responsibility for the simultaneous challenges. Disciplinarian Saturn is actively involved in this week’s n ew Moon and Cosmic energies. Power dynamics and gritty situations may rise to the surface by the end of the week, requiring action in resolution. See the above horoscope for your Rising Sign for more specific information.

Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, founder of Ursa Alchemy and founding partner/ Goddess of Operations (GOO) of Sea Goddess Healing Arts, Atlantic City, NJ. Find her services, teachings, podcast, get in touch and more at www. seagoddesshealingarts.com/ ursaalchemy

The Age of Elegance

Ms. New Jersey Senior America Pageant returns to Harrah’s

By Ava Holly

Once again the Harrah’s stage lit up on Thursday, May 30, for the annual Ms. n ew Jersey Senior America Pageant. The stage was set for Ferlinda (Ferlie) Almonte, last year’s state winner, to take her final walk and crown a new state queen. Almonte’s journey was amazing this past year as she represented women in the “Age of elegance” at many locations throughout n ew Jersey.

Almonte is a cancer survivor. One of the more interesting stories from this year’s event was her multicolored, vintage dress which she selected because it contained all of the colors that represent various types of cancer and serve to raise awareness.

The different types of cancer represented those she has loved and lost, and survivors as well, she explained. It was a moving ending to a special day on stage.

The audience enjoyed performances by Max Valentino and Bobby Fischetti – no strangers to the Ms. Senior America stage. n ow calling themselves The Generations, they perform together at various locations. You can also catch Max on this season’s “America’s Got Talent.”

from Texas where she is a breast surgical oncology specialist.

The pageant, founded by Dr. Al Mott, has been warmly received by senior women. Mott wanted to take women from the rocking chair to the runway and show them that age doesn’t define them. n ow taking the helm as national administrators are Denise and Floyd Calazzo.

Incidentally, Ferlie Almonte, Ms. n ew Jersey Senior America from 2023, came in fourth runner-up at the national Pageant for 2023, held in Atlantic City. This year’s state winner, Lenore Cibelli-lambert, will compete in the nationals in October.

The eight contestants were judged on philosophy of life, evening gown, talent and private interviews before the actual competition. It’s a whole week of events for them. Once a woman has competed in the pageant, she is automatically accepted into the Cameo Club where contestants and past winners perform throughout the year.

This year’s pageant had the theme “Around the World,” with touching performances from different cultures across the globe. The national winner for 2023, Dr. Terry D. Quinn, gave a stunning performance, joining the pageant

The program included performances from Les Grande Dames Chorus and the n ew Jersey Star Dancers. Past winner Suzie n eustadter was among those in the group. The afternoon also included the piano and vocal stylings of Max Berger, who served as master of ceremonies. Choreographer was Melanie Brough.

Pulling it all together were Ms. n ew Jersey Senior America State Administrator Johanne Santori, and Ms. new Jersey Senior America State Pageant Director Terry Meade, who also served as emcees.

The contestants included Jacqueline Turner-Alfonso from Teaneck, e Denise Peoples from Paterson, Lois Sutton eL from Atlantic City, Lenore Cibelli-Lambert from Parlin in the Borough of Sayreville, Galina Pana from Fair Lawn, Bernadette Jones from Trenton, Linda Irene Passerella from Hazlet, and Deloris Bagley from Lawrenceville.

To compete, contestants must be 60 years of age or older. The dynamic and talented contestants will be part of a sisterhood for the rest of their lives, pageant organizers said.

Results were as follows:

3rd Runner–up: Jacqueline Turner-Alfonso who did a fitness routine for her talent.

2nd Runner-up: Bernadette Jones who did a tap routine for her talent.

1st Runner-up: e . Denise Peoples, who has a new lease on life after recently receiving a lung transplant, was voted Miss Congeniality. She entertained with a spoken word, singing segment.

This year’s winner is Lenore Cibelli-Lambert, a retired teacher, blogger, make-up artist and hair stylist. She is a board member of the Miss Staten Island-Miss Richmond County (preliminary to Miss America). She sang a Christmas song (sort of) as she rewrote some of the lyrics to fit into her lifestyle.

Organizers called the pageant a huge success, adding that they are ready to root for Cibelli-Lambert at the nationals in the fall.

Also in attendance was 2022 State Queen, BettyJean Pace from Brooklyn, n .Y., who now resides in Toms River.

This year’s judges were: local public relations expert Karen Martin; actor, coach, and spokesperson David Weincek; Atlantic City native and local broadcaster Don Hurley; President and CeO of Visit Atlantic City Larry Sieg; and former member of the national Miss America Hostess Committee, now retired from the Atlantic County Board of elections and the Township of Hamilton School District Lisa Strother.

Photos by Ava Holly and BettyJean Pace

Postcards from the Past

The Galleon was built in 1926 as a real estate office to attract buyers to the Neptune's Gardens development in Absecon. It was built as a replica of Christopher Columbus' Santa Maria. It was also known as the Ship house. The ship was originally built on wetlands and accessed by a wooden plank walkway at the Absecon Beach Camp. At that time, there was a seafood restaurant in the building and a miniature version of the Absecon lighthouse nearby. When the real estate market bottomed out, the building was moved three miles away. It was used as an Atlantic gas station and various shops, restaurants, and offices over the years. Towards the end, it housed a seldom-open antiques shop. In the late 1980s or early 1990s, the building was painted white with light blue trim. This was the last of three ship real estate offices built. One of these was for the Pirate Ship Realty Co. in Cliffwood Beach, NJ which was destroyed by fire in 1993. The ship in Absecon was demolished in 2009.

A Senior’s Observations, Opinions and Rantings Chicken Dippers continue their 54-year tradition

Senior Moments

By Charles P. Eberson

It started in the early ’70s on the first Sunday in August. If the wind was just right and you lived in Ventnor, especially in Ventnor Heights, you would have awoken in the morning to the aroma of a charcoal barbecue.

Who was barbecuing this early on a Sunday you may ask? It was Viking Rowing Club’s annual fundraiser, the Chicken Dipper Barbecue and the preparation to cook hundreds, maybe thousands of pounds of chicken started early.

The old Viking Rowing Club was located at the end of Harvard Avenue, and the asphalt lot became the site of rows of barbecue pits and picnic tables. The Chicken Dippers got their name from the practice of dipping the

chicken into buckets of the “secret sauce” prior to cooking. For a modest donation, you were presented with a half of a barbecued chicken, a baked potato, coleslaw and a beverage.

The Chicken Dipper program was an opportunity for seventh- and eighth-grade students to learn how to row racing shells. Many of the students eventually went on to row in college, many on scholarships. Some from Holy Spirit and Atlantic City High went on to compete in the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta in england.

The fundraiser was an event not to be missed and was sort of a reunion for local rowers. There was a real sense of camaraderie as everyone came together for this one day a year to support the local rowing community.

Young Chicken Dippers would be racing in front of the “boathouse” with Doc Holland, the undisputed father of South Jersey rowing, narrating for hours from the roof of the boathouse.

The program was started by “Big Larr” and Mike Kelso. In 1993 it was taken over by Ray D’Amico, coach of

St. Augustine Prep crew. Volunteers over the years are too numerous to mention, but people like Wardy, Stan, Subes, Frank and Trip are a few that come to mind.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!!

Thinking about joining the fun? Why not get a team of 4-6 people for a fun race on a giant Stand Up Paddle Board? We provide the SUPsquatch, paddles and personal flotation devices and you bring the fun!

If you are a novice looking for a more challenging experience you can sign up for our 6-mile race course. It s a fun and easy way to test your endurance while raising money to support those who are battling cancer.

Just stop down during the day to enjoy the music and food between noon and 3pm.

More info and to sign up, go to www.thedrcf.org.

There were also lifeboat rides for the children given by area lifeguards. Toward the end of the evening at one such barbecue, my neighbor, Bill, who was captain of the Beach Patrol, asked me to go for a row in one of the lifeguard boats. I told him that with all my years of rowing I had never rowed a lifeguard boat, to which he responded, “just do what I do.” I hopped in and after a few awkward minutes, I managed to fall in sync and the boat was moving well.

changed with more attention placed on the recreational, safety and social aspects of the program. Frequently, more than 100 Chicken Dippers could be boated in a single session, with the help of a dedicated and knowledgeable group of volunteers.

As we approached the boathouse and the crowd, Bill said “sit tall Chuckie, Bergey (chief of the beach patrol) is watching. I focused more intently on my power and technique. On my way back to the car, Bergey said to me, “you looked good out there, Coach” and my chest puffed out with pride.

When I got home and into the shower, I wondered where the blood-curdling scream was coming from. Apparently I succumbed to a malady common among lifeguard boat rowers and rubbed all the skin off my butt at the coccyx bone. Of all the memories of the Chicken Dipper barbecue, that is one that has stuck with me.

When the new Dr. John Holland Boathouse was erected by the ballfield in Ventnor, the emphasis

This summer’s program will run from June 24 through July 27 for 10-14-year-olds. Visit the website for signups and more information at https://vikingrowingclub.org/chicken-dippers/

Special thanks go out to Larry Connell (Big Larr) whose book “Fifty Years of Chicken Dippers and Some Coaching Suggestions” provided me with some of the information used in this column, and to Ray D’Amico and Stan “Bergey” Bergman for their contributions to the book.

Charles Eberson has been in the newspaper business for over 25 years. He has worked as a writer, advertising executive, circulation manager and photographer. His photography can be viewed at charles-eberson. fineartamerica.com

Charlie's Bar celebrates Jason Kelce

By Steffen Klenk

On Sunday, June 2, e agles fans made their way to Charlie’s Bar in Somers Point to celebrate Jason Kelce Day. Hundreds of attendees enjoyed a plethora of activities, from fantastic food and drinks, to live music by The usual Suspects, rounds of cornhole, an appearance by The Philly Sports Guy, and a live radio broadcast featuring former eagles wide receiver Irving Fryar, and defensive tackle Hollis Thomas.

e agles mascot Swoop also made a special appearance, stopping for photographs and unveiling Kelce’s jersey inside the longtime Somers Point establishment.

Within three hours, the event raised over $20,000 for the eagles Autism Foundation, promoting various programs that improve the lives of families throughout our region.

Photos by Steffen Klenk

Absecon residents file lawsuit against ACUA

By Julia Train

After months of smelling the odor coming from the Atlantic County u tilities Authority (ACuA) landfill, located on Delilah Rd. in egg Harbor Township, Absecon residents have had enough.

On May 23, Cozen O’Connor filed a civil action in the u.S. District Court for the District of new Jersey against the ACuA on behalf of Bel Aire Lakes Homeowners Association Inc. (BALHOA) and 65 individual residents in the Absecon retirement community.

The lawsuit

The action alleges that the ACuA landfill in egg Harbor Township is endangering the health of the residents and is violating federal and state environmental laws.

The plaintiffs allege that the ACuA’s landfill emits hazardous levels of

hydrogen sulfide (H2S) well above the mandatory health-based regulatory standard of 30 parts per billion and that the facility’s nighttime operations are in violation of state laws.

BALHOA, which calls itself an “Overburdened environmental Justice Group,” also asserts that the ACuA engaged in fraud by intentionally misrepresenting H2S exposures and concealing emissions data and risk analyses.

The action claims that residents are being exposed to dangerously high levels of H2S, a new Jersey Hazardous Air Pollutant, with an extreme odor of rotten eggs and feces, leading residents to experience breathing difficulties, persistent coughs, nausea and vomiting, migraine headaches, and severe sleep disruption.

“One of the major problems with this landfill, aside from the fact that the air pollution impacts are way above applicable health standards and are causing people to get sick, is the fact that those emissions occur at nighttime,” said Peter J. Fontaine, an environmental lawyer and the lead attorney for the plaintiffs. “The fact that they operate at night is one of the worst aspects of this landfill because right when people are sitting down

Lindy Hops

for dinner, trying to go to sleep or are asleep, they have the horrible experience of breathing in landfill gas.”

Monitoring the landfill’s emissions and the laws

BALHOA retained landfill expert Weston Solutions, Inc. to monitor the landfill and collect air quality data in the 55+ community over a three-month period, from n ovember to January. Weston found that the landfill’s nighttime operations violate state law prohibiting operations within 1,000 feet of residential communities.

Weston also found that the number and severity of H2S odor complaints have worsened since the ACuA built a 60-foot-tall landfill-retaining wall, which raised the working face of the landfill by 40 feet, enhancing off-site migration of emissions generated by nightly landfilling of waste and since the ACuA began digging into old waste to reduce interior landfill elevations.

lition waste and incrementally got approval to start to dispose of putrescible waste at night in December 2000, according to Fontaine.

Gatherings at Bel Aire Lakes, built in 2006 and completed with 125 homes in 2008, is 250 feet away from the landfill.

Threats of a lawsuit first surfaced in January during an Absecon Town Hall meeting where residents expressed their anger over the stench and ACuA President Matt Denafo attended to explain how the site works, discuss what they’re doing to resolve the problem and answer questions citizens had.

According to Fontaine, there was a law passed in 1981 that made it illegal for a landfill to operate at night if it is located within 1,000 feet of a residential zone because the odor increases when they bury trash, and nighttime is when people are most likely home.

Bel Aire Lakes is 250 feet away from the landfill and the 650-unit Ocean Club community that is under construction is 600 feet away.

However, the ACuA needs to do so then because it cannot during the day due to another law stating that a landfill cannot be within 10,000 feet from Atlantic City Airport (ACY) and needing to keep birds away during the day.

The ACuA was approved to only work with construction and demo -

“The ACuA’s history has always been as transparent as possible and open to the public,” said Denafo, who has held his position for about a year, but has been with the ACuA for over 16 years, in an interview with Shore Local in January.

The ACUA’s gas collection system

The ACuA uses gas control collection systems – an infrastructure made of vacuum systems, blowers, flares, miles of pipeline and vertical wells – to convert it into renewable natural gas.

The vertical wells have a diameter of 100 feet and feature a 6-inch perforated pipe drilled into the trash, which can be anywhere from 65 to 110 feet deep.

Walls were built along perimeter

Hydroseeding and grading operation

A vacuum is then put on top and pulls the gas to keep it from escaping so that it can either be flared off or used for renewable natural gas or electricity.

More than 115 of these wells, which are imperative in collecting gas, will be in the landfill by the end of the month, Denafo said.

In December, the ACuA planned to install 15 new gas wells. In February, 19 were installed and connected.

ACUA’s response

The suit seeks closure and permanently capping of the landfill, as well as recovery of damages associated with personal injuries and property damages, imposition of civil penalties for thousands of violations of federal and state environmental laws, and attorney fees and costs to prosecute the action.

The team at Cozen O’Connor representing Bel Aire Lakes Homeowners Association Inc. and individual homeowners includes Fontaine, Lawrence F. Walker and Matthew Coughlin.

The ACuA, which will be represented by Chris Gibson from Archer & Greiner, P.C., released a statement, saying it strongly disagrees with what it calls misleading statements and characterizations of the events set forth in the complaint and that its operations are fully transparent.

It said Cozen O’Conner has been provided with full access to all data and information requested via multiple requests made pursuant to the Open Public Records Act since January of 2023.

According to the statement, “the ACuA has operated a comprehensive, effective, and responsible solid waste management system in service of the Atlantic County community for more than 30 years. This includes the landfill in egg Harbor Township, which is highly regulated by the federal environmental Protection Agency (ePA), the n ew Jersey Department of environmental Protection (nJD eP), and the Atlantic County Department of Health. Consistent with this extensive regulatory framework, the landfill is routinely inspected by the nJD eP.”

The ACuA said it intends to vigor-

ously defend against the accusations in court by using facts and evidence, remaining committed to providing the highest quality waste management services to our community.

The ACuA updates the landfill’s odor control on its website. Find it under the “Projects” tab under the title, “Landfill Odor Control.”

Julia

The solid waste landfill is the tallest point in the county

Beach Reads with Marjorie Preston

By Marjorie Preston

The Book of Love

By Kelly Link 2024, Random House

There is a disturbing, dreamlike quality to “The Book of Love”—a real/ not real feeling where characters appear, disappear, and change shape, and memory and mystery collide. It opens as three high school friends, Laura, Daniel and Mo, find themselves materializing—returning from some alternate existence—in the classroom of a favorite music teacher, Mr. Anabin. All are dirty, barefoot, and dressed in costumes from a production of “Bye, Bye Birdie.” Soon, they’re joined by a fourth lost soul, who decides to be called Bowie.

The high-schoolers learn they have been dead for about a year, but can’t remember the circumstances of their passing. Thanks to an agreement between Anabin and a menacing specter named Bogomil, all are permitted to fall back into their daily lives in small-town Lovesend, Massachusetts.

There’s a catch: according to a cryptic message on a blackboard, they know that "2 ReTu Rn/2 ReMAI n ." Link, a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for short fiction, has written a magical, twisty first novel.

A Murder in Hollywood

By Casey Sherman 2024, Sourcebooks

In 1958, small-time hood Johnny Stompanato was stabbed to death in the home of his lover, film star Lana Turner. Turner’s daughter Cheryl Crane confessed, saying Stompanato had threatened her mother. But some say Cheryl took the fall for a murder Lana herself committed.

At the time, Turner was at a crossroads. Her best years were behind her, she had just been fired by MGM, and

she couldn’t afford more scandalous headlines. Reportedly, she and her lawyer conspired to pin the killing on the 14-year-old girl, knowing she would suffer no repercussions (they were right: it was an open-and-shut case, and Cheryl was soon exonerated).

And far from destroying Turner, the notoriety of the crime actually jumpstarted her career; afterward, she went on to make some of her most successful films, like “Imitation of Life”

In Today’s Fast Paced Real Estate Market. It Is Even More Important To Choose The Right Agent To Represent You! Over 40 Years of Real Estate Expertise, Knowledge, and Experience to Assist You!

• ABR-Accredited Buyer Representative- Expert Negotiator To Get You The Home That You Want !

• CRS-Certified Residential Specialist-To Optimize The Highest Sales Price For Your Home and Get SOLD Quickly!

• GRI-Graduate Realtor Institute-Continuing Education and Technology Like No Other!

• MRP-Military and Relocation Specialist-Proficient in All Aspects of Veteran and Active Military Real Estate!

• Full Time Awarded Professional Realtor Since 1985

• NJ Real Estate Broker Since 1989!

• Lifetime Membership in the New Jersey Association of Realtors Distinguished Sales Club and National Association of Realtors.

Your

to

and “Peyton Place.”

This is both Turner’s story and that of mob kingpin Mickey Cohen, who vowed to avenge Stompanato’s death. For old-time show-biz gossip with a dose of “The Godfather,” read “A Murder in Hollywood.”

Only the Brave By Danielle Steel 2024, Delacorte

Danielle Steel has written some 170 books, sold a billion copies worldwide, routinely grinds out six new novels every year (!), and boasts that she works 20 hours a day.

But the proof is on the page, and her work has always had a slap-dash feel, with formulaic plots riddled with redundancies. When Steel sticks to her wheelhouse—romance fiction and generational sagas—this lightweight style is tiresome. When the subject is the Holocaust, it’s unacceptable.

“Only the Brave” begins in 1937 Berlin, with the understatement that “things in Germany had changed since the n azis came to power.” Troubled by what she sees, a beautiful young surgeon’s daughter named Sophia Alexander joins the French resistance and collaborates with an order of Catholic nuns to shelter Jewish children.

When her father refuses to breach his physician’s oath by supporting the Third Reich, he is dispatched to Dachau. By association, Sophia, who is preparing to take her religious vows, is sent to Ravensbruck, where she looks for an opportunity to escape.

All this has the makings of compelling drama, but, like others from the Danielle Steel assembly line, it blends a handful of facts, a by-the-numbers plot, and characters who never quite come to life.

Shy: The Alarmingly Outrageous Memoirs of Mary Rodgers

By Mary Rodgers and Jesse Green 2022, Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Mary Rodgers had a front row seat to Broadway in its Golden Age: her father, Richard, was the phenomenally successful composer of musical hits like “Pal Joey” (with Lorenz Hart), and “South Pacific,” “The Sound of Music,” “Carousel,” and others (with Oscar Hammerstein).

While his music suggests a generous, romantic spirit, in life Richard Rodgers was cool and critical, and his socialite wife, Dorothy, was just as remote. As Mary recalls, “I doubt either of my parents wanted to have children,

at least not in the way children want to be had.”

Despite that uncertain start, and the bias that comes with being seen only as “someone’s daughter,” eventually Mary won success in her own right, as one of the few female composers of her time (she wrote the score for “Once upon a Mattress,” the musical that made a star of Carol Burnett).

The author’s wry outlook and fun-loving spirit infuse every page of this freewheeling memoir, which is populated by legends like Leonard Bernstein, Hal Prince, and the boy Mary loved, Stephen Sondheim. Based on conversations with n ew York Times theater critic Jesse Green, and com pleted after Mary’s death, it’s a mustread for theater buffs.

Circle in the Water

By

Marcia

Muller 2024, Grand Central Publishing

Muller has published dozens of mys teries in the Sharon McCone series, but you don’t have to be a long-time reader to jump into the action.

In “Circle in the Water,” the San Francisco detective is hired by a group of property owners whose privately owned streets—yes, that’s a thing in the city—are under attack by vandals. Their modus operandi includes the usual (broken windows, graffiti) and the inventive (surreptitious deliveries of fertilizer).

The dutiful gumshoe sets out to find out whodunit, only to become the target of a killer—or killers. This breezy page-turner is marked by snappy dialogue and a likable heroine, who’s adept at getting in and out of danger, just in the nick of time.

Marjorie Preston is a business writer, editor, ghostwriter and compulsive reader, who gobbles up books like potato chips. For more information (and more book reviews), visit marjorieprestonwriting.com.

AJune Events in Atlantic City

s the summer season is just getting underway, the City of Atlantic City is bringing back some popular, City-organized events and activities, while introducing brand new ones.

Great Pride Day

The Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs, in conjunction with the newly formed Great Pride Committee, has organized Atlantic City’s first Great Pride Day on Saturday, June 8. The day begins at n ewport Avenue and the Boardwalk (in Ventnor) at 10:00 AM for the Rainbow Ride, where participants will ride bicycles to Tropicana Atlantic City. From there, the event turns into the equality March to Rainbow Beach (Park Pl Beach) where a Flag Raising will occur at approx. 11:00 a.m. At 12:00 p.m. participants will make their way on foot and bike to the AC Pride Reception at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Great Pride Day concludes with the inaugural Great Pride Festival at 2:30 p.m. at Brighton Park, with food, music, and other entertainment. This is a free event; no registration is required.

Youth Events from ACYS You’ve heard of Coachella, but on Saturday, June 8th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, Youthchella is taking over uptown School Park (308 n . Rhode Island Avenue) thanks to the Atlantic City Youth Services division. This free event is open to the community and will feature music, games, summer treats and a Glow Party at 8:00 PM. Then on Friday, June 14th is the ACYS Family Cook Off, a family-friendly cooking competition where youth and adults will team up to see who makes the most delicious dish. This first-of-its-kind event will be at Atlantic Cape Community College Worthington Campus (1535 Bacharach Blvd) from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Register at www.acnj.gov for the Family Cook Off. Atlantic City Youth Services can be reached at 609-347-6442 with questions.

Abdullah Anderson Training Camp

The Atlantic City Recreation division is bringing back the 2nd annual Abdullah Anderson Free Football Training Camp on Saturday, June 22 at Atlantic City High School. Ander-

son, an Atlantic City native and n FL player, will be on hand to put the kids through various football drills during a morning session for Grades 3-8 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. and an afternoon session for high school players from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Register at www.acnj.gov. Registration also remains open for popular AC Rec youth programs like T-Ball and n FL Flag. AC Rec also offers adult programs like Men’s and Women’s Flag Football on Thursday nights at Chelsea Heights Field and Adult Line Dance on Tuesday nights at uptown School Complex. And Tuesday and Wednesday nights, spectators are welcome to enjoy Adult Softball League action from the stands at Surf Stadium. Call AC Rec at 609-347-5643 with questions.

Summer Camps

Youth Services and Recreation

have once again partnered for ‘Great Day’ Summer Camp starting June 25, giving kids the best of both worlds, combining S.T. e .M. and art activities with sports. And the Atlantic City Multicultural Services division is also hosting a Summer Camp starting June 25 where participants will get to explore different cultures through sports, art and other activities. Register for both camps at www.acnj.gov.

Senior Activities

The Atlantic City Senior Services division has organized the following free, recurring June activities open to all Atlantic City residents ages 55 and older: Fun and Fitness Classes

‘Motown Style’ (June 4, 11, 18), Bowling (June 11, 25), Walking Club (June 12, 26), Bingo (June 18)

Atlantic City Senior Services is also offering the following free trips and events in June open to Atlantic City residents 55 and older: Columbus Market (June 13), Shopping Trip to Walmart and ShopRite (June 14), Father’s Day Phillies Game (June 17), Painting Party (June 27), Shopping Day in Cape May (June 28)

Call Atlantic City Senior Services at 609-347-5458 with questions and to register. More details on each trip and program can be found at www. acnj.gov.

inlet

The books that travel with us

By Bill Quain

Iwas born in August 1952. I’m pretty sure that my parents did not bring me to the shore that summer. But every other summer of my life, I came to Ocean City.

(There was that one year when I was serving in VISTA and couldn’t make it, but that’s a whole other story.) After Jeanne and I were married, we’d spend a couple of summer weeks in n ew York with her family and a couple of summer weeks in Ocean City with mine. But then we had our kids.

We decided the best way to get from Florida to the n ortheast was by car. For several years, we took the Auto Train. We booked a sleeper car with a private bath. During the day, we had two very comfortable bench seats that faced each other. In the evening, the porter would fold out the beds. After having dinner in the dining car, we would all retire back to our room and spend a pretty comfortable night.

it was a stack of children’s classics. “The Cat in the Hat” was in our train suite most years. As the kids got older, the characters we traveled with changed. But we never went anywhere without books. That train became the Hogwarts Express.

Jeanne and I were living in Orlando when our two daughters were born. As everyone knows, kids come with a lot of stuff. Getting to the shore suddenly became much more complicated.

So, how does this relate to this week’s Six Words on a Boardwalk Bench? Well, even when our kids were little, we started bringing books with us. When they were very young,

We moved from Orlando to Miami Beach in 1997. Our daughters were really into books at that point. They read all the time. We had a great, independent bookstore just down the street from our house. Amanda, our oldest daughter, became a regular there. One day, the owner of the bookstore told her about a new book. She said it was written by a woman named J.K. Rowling, and was about some wizard kids. no one had even heard of Harry Potter at that time, but Amanda bought the first book in the series and started reading it. Soon, she was helping her younger sister Kathleen read it.

SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK

BENCH by Bill Quain

Harry Potter cassette story too. She and her kids were looking forward to listening to the book on their drive from Pennsylvania to Ocean City. As they hit the road, one of her kids passed the tape up to Jeannine. It was then she realized that their new car had a CD player … not a cassette player! They had to stop at Kmart to buy a portable tape player!

Of course, the Harry Potter series became a tremendous success, and it became part of our summer trips to Ocean City. It was a long drive from Miami to the Auto Train station, and another long drive from the end of the train route in Virginia to our final destination up north. But that didn’t matter. Off we’d go, the car packed with all of our stuff. And now new sets of books – big, fat books – were in the car with us. Our girls didn’t even talk to us on the train ride! They were just reading the latest Harry Potter edition.

Can we get them on tape?

A few years later, we decided to drive back to Florida and see some sights along the way. It was going to be a super long drive. Amanda had a great idea! She heard that “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” was released on cassette tape. That changed everything!

I forget how many tapes the first book had, but there were a lot of them. So, as we drove out across the n inth Street bridge on our way back to Florida, we popped that first cassette tape in the player. We were transported! n ot only was it an excellent book, but the audio producers had hired a fantastic reader, who managed to change his voice for each character. The book was so compelling that when we arrived in Miami Beach, we didn’t go straight to the house. Instead, we grabbed a couple of sandwiches and sat in the car in the parking lot until that cassette was completed. We played the final tape on our stereo system the next night.

My sister Jeannine had a funny

You can each take 20 books. Fast forward to 2005. I was teaching at Florida International university. I had a sabbatical leave of absence, and we decided to spend that year in Ocean City. After living here, we fell in love with the town. We went back to Miami, sold our house, then moved to Ocean City permanently in 2007. However, back in 2005, our intention was to live here for one year. We loaded up our minivan as well as a small u -Haul trailer, then told our girls they could each pick their favorite 20 books for the year. When we arrived in Ocean City, I remember unpacking suitcases from the car, thinking how heavy they were. We had bags that were taped shut that were really heavy too. It seems my girls couldn’t choose just 20 books each. Books were under the seats of the car, packed under clothing, and in every conceivable hiding place. And there were still hundreds of books back in Miami!

We know that books transport you.

Have you ever transported books? Tell me your “books in a car” stories. I’d love to hear them! Shoot me an email at bill@quain.com. As I say each week, “I’ll see ya in the papers!”

Bill is a Professor in Stockton University’s Hospitality Management Program. He is the author of 27 books, and a highly-respected speaker. Even though he is almost totally blind, Bill is a long-distance runner and runs the Ocean City Half Marathon each year. He lives in Ocean City with his wife Jeanne, and his Guide Dog Trudy. Visit www.billquain.com or email him at bill@quain.com.

Kitchen, Bathroom

Renovations

SEASONS ARE CHANGING IS YOUR SYSTEM READY?

TRUSTED SINCE 1949

Ocean City American Legion to Honor Vietnam Era Vets

By Doug Otto

Anational 50th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemoration Ceremony, authorized by Congress and the Secretary of Defense, will take place at Ocean City’s Morvay-Miley-Cruice American Legion Post 524 at 7:00 PM on Friday, June 12.

Major General edward J. Chrystal, Jr., u.S. Army

Director of The united States of America Vietnam War Commemoration and Col. Patrick Cramer, u.S. Army

Chief of the Director's Action Group, will honor all who served during the Vietnam War with a Vietnam Veteran lapel pin, a lasting memento from a grateful nation.

ceremony.

“I believe this celebration is a sincere gesture by the government of thanks to all those who served for their loyalty and valor at a critical moment in our country’s history” said Paul Banfe, who is heading-up Ocean City’s ceremonial operations at Post 524. “We are proud to have served

Anyone who served in the military between n ovember 1, 1955 and May 15, 1975, regardless of duty station, is eligible to be honored. The objective of the ceremony is to thank and honor veterans, and the families of these veterans, for their service and sacrifices during the Vietnam War era.

In an instance where an honoree cannot attend this public event, a pin will be presented during a private

our nation and are appreciative of this recognition.”

Honorees must register to be part of the ceremony.

Please contact Paul Banfe at paulbanf@comcast.net

For more information about this national program, visit www.vietnamwar50th.com .

Hundreds arrived in Ocean City Saturday for the second annual OC Pride Fest. The event, organized by We Belong CMC, began with a speech by Michael Hartman, founding artistic director of the Ocean City Theatre Company.

Friends and supporters carried multi-colored banners to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community as they walked the Ocean City Boardwalk.

Photos by Steffen Klenk

Ocean City men fought in D-Day invasion

A Look Back

By Fred Miller

Eighty years ago, June 6, 1944, shortly after midnight, 13,000 paratroopers landed behind enemy lines in normandy. They were the advance guard of a mighty invasion fleet which landed troops at several places along more than 50 miles of the French coast.

Operation Overlord, the code name for the invasion, was the biggest land, sea, and air operation in military history.

"100 Resort Service Men On Invasion Front '' was the headline across the front page of the June 9, 1944, Ocean City Sentinel-Ledger. The article reported: Close to 100 Ocean City men, in every branch of the armed forces, are believed to

be directly or indirectly taking part in the invasion of the century.

People were not surprised that so many local men were involved in the invasion because 690 names were listed on the American Legion's Honor Roll in front of City Hall.

"HITLeR'S Se A WALL IS BR e ACH eD" was the headline of the June 7, 1944, n ew York Times. A picture on the front page showed General Dwight D. eisenhower talking to the paratroopers the day before they took off. The caption under the picture read: "The Supreme Commander in an intimate chat with some of his men in england prior to their boarding planes for the first assault on France."

"He was Private James A. Ryan, 3rd, 19-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. James A. Ryan, Jr. of Philadelphia, who summered here at 34th Street.

"They received word from the War Department that their son, a paratrooper, was killed in action on the first day of the invasion.

"Former Lifeguard Dies In Invasion; James A. Ryan, 3rd, Killed on D-Day," was the headline in the June 30, 1944, Ocean City Sentinel-Ledger. The article began, "An Ocean City summer resident and former lifeguard gave his life in europe on D-Day, June 6, it was reported this week.”

"The young man, who had spent his summers here since boyhood, was a grandson of Mrs. Ida Ryan, 3501 Central Avenue. His brother, Daniel, is a member of this year's Beach Patrol." At 6 p.m. on June 6, 1944, a large crowd surrounded the lifeguards as they lowered the flag beside the Music Pier. The national Anthem played from the amplifiers attached to the flagpole.

DISCOVER YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE THIS SUMMER

What's happening in Ocean City

The Ocean City Flower Show will celebrate its 50th anniversary from Friday to Sunday (June 7 to June 9) at the Ocean City Music Pier. The annual show is presented by the Garden Club of Ocean City and features floral creations and displays from enthusiasts of all ages.

Awards are given in a variety of categories for artistic design and horticulture. This year’s theme is “Celebrating 50 Years in Flowers.” The event also features a small sales pavilion.

The public is invited to check out the beautiful displays. Show hours are 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free (donations to the Garden Club are optional).

The popular weekly Farmers Market on the grounds of the Ocean City Tabernacle opens for the 2024 season on June 5 and returns every Wednesday through early September. Locally grown produce and specialties, along with crafters set up on the 500 block of Asbury Avenue, will be available 8 a.m. to noon every week.

A fireworks display will be launched from the beach at Fifth Street at 9 p.m. Thursday (June 6) to celebrate the 93rd anniversary of Gillian’s amusements on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

The Emergency Responder 5-Kilometer Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, June 8, and registration remains open. Formerly known as the “Cop Chase,” the event now honors all first responders and moves to a new location near the Ocean City Intermediate School. The race starts and finishes at 18th Street and Haven Avenue at 8:30 a.m. with a flat out-and-back course along the Haven Avenue bike route.

The event also includes a one-mile walk/run (8 a.m.) and kids’ challenges (50-meter and 100-meter dashes, 400-meter obstacle course) at 9 a.m.

variety of other indoor and outdoor health and recreational facilities. Come explore health food and wellness product vendors, various yoga and fitness classes from 8 a.m. to noon at the Ocean City Music Pier.

J une 15 – Juneteenth Festival: The event will celebrate African American culture and freedom from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 15, between Seventh Street and eighth Street on Haven Avenue. The celebration will include music, stand-up comedy, special guest speakers, gospel power hour, vendors, food trucks and fun family activities.

June 16 – Juneteenth Celebration With Master Storyteller: The Ocean City Arts Center will present Karen “Queen nur” Abdul-Malik in an early celebration and commemoration of Juneteenth. experience Queen nur’s storytelling magic at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 16 at the Ocean City Free Public Library (1735 Simpson Avenue). The event is free and open to the

Online registration and further information are available at www. ocnj.us/race-events.

More June events

J une 15 – Health, Fitness & Wellness e xpo: The event features health food, fitness classes, speakers, vendors and more. All are invited to this free event in a town that features the beach, boardwalk and a wide

public. Visit oceancityartscenter.org for more information and to reserve your seat.

J une 21 – The Philadelphia Wind Symphony: The 40-plus member Philadelphia Wind Symphony will perform traditional wind band classics to round out their 2023- 2024 season. Their performance will serve as an official musical celebration to start the summer featuring marches, soloists and entertaining selections

for the entire family to enjoy. The concert begins at 8 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

J une 22 – Antique Auto Show: More than 300 vintage vehicles will be on display on the Tabernacle grounds (Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. followed by a Boardwalk parade. For more information, visit jerseycape. aaca.com.

J une 24 – Let’s Sing Taylor — A Live Band e xperience Celebrating Taylor Swift: Two concerts (5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.) at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com. Produced by BR

J une 25 – Kenny G: The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix. com. Produced by BRe Presents.

J une 30 – Bernadette Peters Performing with the Ocean City Pops: Peters will join the Pops at the Ocean City Music Pier to kick off the 2024 season. The award-winning actress and singer’s career spans film, television and stage. She won Tony Awards for her roles in the musicals “Annie Get Your Gun” and “Song and Dance,” and she received five other nominations and an honorary award. Four of the cast albums on which she starred have won Grammy Awards.

ShopRite Classic back for 36th edition this weekend

By David Weinberg

The ShopRite LPGA Classic, easily the area’s top sports event, brings the world’s top female golfers back to the area for the 36th edition of the tournament.

It is impressive for several reasons, for its longevity and popularity with both fans and players.

Once again, thousands of fans are expected to watch standouts such as defending champion Ashleigh Buhai and World Golf Hall of Famer Karrie Webb in action on Seaview Hotel and Golf Club’s Bay Course Friday through Sunday.

“We are excited to once again to attract the world’s best professional golfers and legends of the game back

to Seaview,” tournament media director Jeremy Freidman said.

Buhai (2023) and Webb (2013) are among nine past ShopRite Classic champions in the 144-player field, along with Brooke Henderson (2022), Annie Park (2018), In Kyung Kim (2017), Anna n ordqvist (2015, ’16), Stacy Lewis (2012, ’14), Brittany Lincicome (2011) and Angela Stanford (2003).

n ordqvist and Lewis will be vying to join Annika Sorenstam (1998, 2002, ’05) and Betsy King (1987, ’95, ’01) as three-time winners. n ordqvist is the only player to win in back-to-back years.

Webb, one of the best players in LPGA history, is playing in a LPGA event for the first time since she played in the ShopRite Classic in 2022.

The field includes 13 of the top 50 players, led by n o. 5 Hannah Green and no. 7 Jin Young Koo.

“Winning last year was a huge accomplishment for me,” Buhai said last week. “Seaview is a course I’ve always felt comfortable playing. It kind of has that ‘linksy’ feel.”

The action actually starts two days before the actual tournament, when the Pro-Am takes place Wednesday and Thursday at three courses: Seaview Bay, Seaview Pines and Galloway national. It’s by far the largest pro-am on any professional golf tour, with approximately 300 groups of five players – four amateurs and a pro – teeing it up.

The pro-am is so popular that organizers recruit current and former Symetra Tour players and various other personalities to serve as “pros.” Afterward, participants are treated to an awesome after-party at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City.

I’ve been fortunate to play in the pro-am four times and each round was memorable for a variety of reasons. For instance, my first proam experience was in 2017, when I was paired with former “The Big Break” contestant elena Robles on Seaview’s Pines Course. every hole had a Tito’s Vodka station, plus soft pretzels and various other snacks. By the time we made the turn, I had trouble seeing the ball on the tee, let alone making contact.

Probably my favorite pro-am stint was in 2019, when I played with former LPGA veteran Julieta Granada and her mother/caddie Rosa. I had first met them in 2005, when Julieta was an 18-year-old high school senior playing the tournament on a sponsor’s exemption. During the round, we shared bratwursts and anecdotes while managing to finish 10-under par as a team.

The most impressive part of the tournament, however, is its longevity.

Larry and Ruth Harrison were the driving forces behind starting the tournament – once known as the Atlantic City Classic – in 1986.

The event thrived for 11 years during stints at both Seaview and Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point until a conflict with former

LPGA officials over dates caused a three-year hiatus from 200709 before it was revived by Tim erensen, Bill Hansen and others. Here's hoping its back for another 36 years.

LaManna goes for title at Bally’s

In addition to the ShopRite Classic, the weekend also features a top professional boxing card Saturday night at Bally’s Atlantic City. Millville middleweight contender Thomas LaManna (37-5-1, 16 KOs), will face Dominican Republic’s Juan Carlos Abreu (26-7-1, 24 KOs) for the World Boxing Association’s Gold title.

LaManna, who is ranked third in the WBA’s world rankings, will be fighting for the 23rd time in Atlantic City. The streak began in 2011, when he made his pro debut at Bally’s during his senior year at Millville High School.

The following week, boxing returns to Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall with a card being promoted by former WBA super-lightweight champ Danny Garcia.

The undercard will feature the pro debut of Bruce Seldon Jr., son of former WBA heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon and brother of former middleweight boxing Isiah Seldon. Seldon Jr., an Absegami High School graduate, is being trained at the Pleasantville Rec Center by Pleasantville’s Julio Sanchez.

David is a nationally recognized sports columnist who has covered Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his own Facebook page, Dave Weinberg Extra Points. Send comments to weinbergd419@comcast.net.

Kerrie Webb, 2022 champion

Ashleigh Buhai, 2023 champion

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Whitney’s Weekly Picks

The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman

Get ready to discover the coolest happenings around town.

Don’t miss the fun, grab your tickets in advance and be a part of the action. Show some love to your local venues and let’s make our section of the Jersey Shore shine. Oh, and remember to hashtag #thecitypulse & #shorelocal in your epic photos and videos.

Who: Jay Leno

Where: Caesars Atlantic City | Circus Maximus Theater

When: Friday, June 7

Time: 9 p.m.

Website: caesars.com/caesars-ac/ shows

Acclaimed TV late-night show host,

What: Stephen Moore Summer Jam night

Where: The Deck at Ventura’s Greenhouse

When: every Friday night

Time: 7-10 p.m.

Website: venturasgreenhouse.com

Who: Patti LaBelle with Special Guests the Commodores

Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

When: Friday, June 7

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: casino. hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/patti-labelle Get ready to groove with the legendary Patti LaBelle and special guests, The Commodores. From Patti LaBelle’s powerhouse vocals to The Commodores’ iconic funk sound, this concert promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages.

Both

Whether

author, and stand-up comedian Jay Leno, is returning to the Circus Maximus Theater.

Who: Carbonaro: Lies on Stage

Where: Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

When: Friday, June 7

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: borgata.mgmresorts.com/ en/entertainment/the-music-box/ michael-carbonaro

Playing to more than 200 thrilled audiences across the country, Michael continues to showcase his unmatched blend of humor and charisma along with inventive illusions which amaze audiences of all ages, cementing himself as one of the most dynamic entertainers of his generation.

What: Lou n eglia’s Ring of Combat 84 Championship MMA

Where: Tropicana Atlantic City

When: Friday, June 7

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Website: ringofcombat.com

Who: Gutter Drunk

Where: Anchor Rock Club

When: Friday, June 7

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: anchorrockclub.com

Dive into an unforgettable night of raw energy and rock revelry as Gutter Drunk takes the stage with Reckless Randy and The Washups at Anchor Rock Club. Let their insane riffs and electrifying songs transport you to a whole new world.

What: Yappy Hour on the Baywalk

Where: Harrah’s Atlantic City

When: Friday, June 7

Time: 4-7 p.m.

Website: www.caesars.com/atlantic-city/guides/news/yappy-hour enjoy treats and fun for both humans and dogs. Plus, the Humane Society of Atlantic County and Atlantic Coun -

ty Canines will have pets available for adoption. Shore K9 will give two K9 demonstrations. Vendors include Doggie Beach Boutique, Paw Dazzle Pet Bakery & Boutique and Paw Purrazzi Grooming.

Who: Aaron Berg for AC Jokes

Where: Resorts Casino Hotel | Tower Conference Level

When: Friday, June 7 & Saturday, June 8

Time: Friday, 9 p.m., Saturday, 7 p.m. & 9 p.m.

Website: www.acjokes.com

What: ShopRite LPGA Classic

Where: Seaview, A Dolce Hotel

When: Friday, June 7-Sunday, June 9

Website: shopritelpgaclassic.com

The 2024 ShopRite LPGA Classic

Presented by Acer is Atlantic City’s largest sporting event and one of the longest-running events on the LPGA Tour schedule. The LGPA Classic is taking place June 7-9 on the Bay Course at Seaview, A Dolce Hotel in Galloway.

What: Miss n ew Jersey 2024 Final Competition

Where: Resorts Superstar Theater

When: Saturday, June 8

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: missnj.org

What: Coppelia

Where: Caesars Atlantic City

When: Saturday, June 8

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: acballet.org/coppelia Coppelia is about a doctor (Coppelius) who made a life-size dancing doll. Franz, a villager, falls in love with the doll and casts aside his betrothed, Swanhilda. Swanhilda dresses like a doll and succeeds in marrying Franz.

What: AC Flea Market

Where: Showboat Hotel Lobby

When: Saturday, June 8

Time: noon-6 p.m.

Website: www.atlanticcitynj. com/events/event-list/showboat-flea-market

↘Continued on 50

YOUR HOME FOR SUMMER’S HOTTEST GIVEAWAYS AND REWARDS

The Showboat Flea Market is coming this June 8. Do not miss out on a day filled with vendors, food, music, giveaways and so much more

What: 3rd Annual Rainbow Ride & March for equality

Where: Start in Ventnor at n ewport & the Boardwalk

When: Saturday, June 8

Time: 10 a.m.

Website: acpride.org

What: Atlantic City Truck Meet

Where: Bader Field

When: Saturday, June & Sunday, June 9

Time: Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Website: atlanticcitytruckmeet.org

Get ready for the largest truck

roundup in the n ortheast when the Atlantic City Truck Meet makes its way to Bader Field for two fun-filled days June 8 and 9. e xpect a weekend filled with trucks, contests, food, music and much more.

What: Official Celebrity Boxing War at the Shore '24

Where: Showboat Resort

When: Saturday, June 8

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: officialcelebrityboxing.com

Championship celebrity boxing matches, boxing legends, and exciting live music performances in an effort to raise mental health awareness

What: north to Shore Festival & Atlantic City Showcase Stage & Village

Where: Atlantic City The Orange Loop Festival Grounds on n ew York Avenue

When: June 22 & 23

Time: 11 a.m. both days

Website: northtoshore.com

Discover what the locals already know – Atlantic City’s arts and culinary scene is simply phenomenal (and not in the casinos). Just one block from the world-famous Atlantic City beach and Boardwalk, the Showcase Stage and Artist Village will offer

festival-goers a sampler of authentic Atlantic City sounds, food, drink, and artisans over two days at the Orange Loop Festival Grounds, in the heart of the city’s hippest neighborhood.

What: AC Pride Dancing under The Rainbow

Where: The Claridge Hotel Grand Ballroom

When: June 21

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: acride.org

A charitable dance showcase where local contestants compete to raise money for AC Pride’s Khoi Bui Scholarship Fund and be crowned with the Rainbow Crown.

Whitney Ullman, Stockton University graduate, and founder of gotowhitney.com is known as a “go to” resource, content creator, reporter, and influencer with established credibility in Atlantic City, The Jersey Shore, Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. With over 6 million views on her social platforms, she created TheCityPulse.com as a go-to lifeline for all things happening in the city!

Gateway Playhouse’s

By Julia Train

Every single one of the 220 seats in the Gateway Playhouse theater was occupied for each show during the first weekend of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”.

The sung-through musical’s score was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice in the 1960s and is based on the story of Joseph from the Bible’s Book of Genesis.

Joseph, Jacob’s youngest and favorite son, is met with jealousy from his brothers because his father’s favoritism is made obvious when Jacob gifts him a multicolored coat. On top of that, Joseph’s dreams predict he’s destined to rule over his brothers.

Joseph’s brothers then try to kill him but wind up selling him into slavery. From there, Joseph is met with several tribulations.

The theme that is apparent throughout the entire show was the messages in Joseph’s dreams and his triumphs over hardship.

Colorful costumes and scenery filled the stage with an eclectic mix

of musical styles, including a parody of French ballads, e lvis-themed rock ‘n’ roll, country/western music, 1920s Charleston, Calypso, jazz and 1970s go-go.

With the band in the back and vocals up front, the theater was bursting with music.

The fast-paced show moved along with innuendos and humor for every age, while sharing a message of the importance of hope, resilience and forgiveness, according to its director, Philip Pallitto.

Pallitto performed at Gateway Playhouse as a kid and has directed about 25 productions at the theater. A message he took away from the show was the power of dreams and anything you set your mind to can be achieved

“With everything that’s going on in this world, just be kind,” he said.

The cast and crew included a variety of ages. Local high school drama departments, like Cedar Creek and Mainland Regional High Schools, donated props and scenery.

Its Rose Season! New Wines Arriving

erik Wagner, 22, plays Joseph for half of the six shows and Jacob’s son Gad in the others, alternating the roles with Vincent Piraino.

Although this show was Wagner’s first at Gateway Playhouse, he has been on stage since he was 8 years old when he was cast as a member of the children’s choir in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”.

This is his third time doing the show and said the comradery the cast has in this production is what

set it apart from his other experiences.

“It never loses its style and always remains fresh,” said Wagner. “It’s nice to go back to the community scene where everybody is volunteering their time and here because they love it.”

Gateway Playhouse is a nonprofit. All those involved in the productions, which rely on donations, volunteer their time.

Wagner majored in vocal music education and Spanish at Rowan university and worked with Ocean City Theatre Company and Rowan Opera Company, usually cast in educational and professional theater.

Wagner’s key takeaway from the show is the value of empathy.

“Regardless of the wrongs that people do, there’s always the chance for forgiveness and acceptance regardless of who you are,” he said. n ext weekend’s June 7-9 performances are all sold out as well, but donations can always be made for future shows.

Photo by Kaitlin Keane Photography

Summer Wine Tour of Italy: Part 1

Drink Up!

By David Setley

Few things sound better than a month-long wine tour of Italy. For the next four weeks, I plan to be your tour guide, entertaining you with stories of the regions and wines of Italy and providing recommendations for you to enjoy. Let’s start in the northwest region of Piemonte, aka, the Piedmont!

The Piemonte region is located in the foothills of the Alps in the northwestern corner of Italy near the borders of Switzerland and France. Though much of Italy has a warm Mediterranean climate, this region is notably cooler, with a Continental climate similar to Burgundy, France. Vineyards in the region are commonly planted on the slopes of hills at elevations of 500-1200 feet. Almost 90% of winemaking occurs in the southernmost portion of the region, near the towns of Alba, Asti, and

Alessandria. Winemaking in Piemonte is centuries old and dates to the Roman empire.

The dominant grape of the Piedmont, n ebbiolo, derives its name from a notable weather feature of the region. n ebbiolo is derived from “nebbia”, meaning fog. Although the Alps to the north shield the region from rain, fog created by cool air to the north and much warmer air to the south is common. Fog may not be enjoyable to us, but it is certainly excellent for growing n ebbiolo! The Piedmont appellation most known for nebbiolo is Langhe, located in the far southern section of the region. Langhe’s unique location makes for very cold and snowy winters, but very warm summers, allowing for a long growing season.

continues to set the bar for quality in the region. The structured tannins and the relatively high acidity of nebbiolo wine pair well with meat dishes, charcuterie, and roasted vegetables.

nebbiolo wines feature fruit notes of cherry, plum, and strawberry with earthy tones of leather, licorice, and herbs. e xcellent examples are the G.D. Vajra Langhe n ebbiolo 2022 and the Pio Cesare Langhe n ebbiolo 2020. Pio Cesare was founded in 1881 by the man for whom the winery is named. The winery is in its fifth generation of family winemakers and

A friend and long-time restaurant owner, Joe Massaglia, was born in Piemonte. He would often ask, “David, what is the king of wines and the wine of kings?” There was only one acceptable answer: “Barolo!” Barolo, like Langhe, is a subregion of Piemonte. Barolo wines are produced to meet the requirements of Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG). In addition to being made of 100% n ebbiolo grapes grown in the Barolo DOCG, the wines must be aged a minimum of 3 years, or in the case of Reserva, 5 years, before release. Barolo wines can be very expensive, but a reasonably priced recommendation is Fratelli RevelloBarolo 2019. The Fratelli has beautiful aromatics of dark fruit, baking spices, and leather. The palate is soft, with well-structured tannins and notes of sweet spices, leather, and dark plum and cherry fruits. This is a wonderful wine that pairs perfectly with any Italian fare, but most beautifully with mushroom risotto or any dish with truffles or truffle oil.

A close cousin of Barolo DOCG is Barbaresco DOCG. Although both wines are made from 100% n ebbiolo grapes, the difference between the two is attributed to terroir. The soil in the Barbaresco DOCG has higher nutritional content than Barolo, which produces a grape/wine with more fruit-forward aromatics and taste with less pronounced tannins. Additionally, the aging requirements for a Barbaresco are less, only 2 years or 3 years for Reserva. Some people consider Barbaresco to be the lesser cousin, but I disagree. Both are quality wines, just different. The lighter tannins and fruitier palate make Barbaresco wines very friendly with diverse foods, including lamb, duck, chicken, pork, salmon, tuna, and vegetables. A great Barbaresco to try is the Fontanabianca-Barbaresco 2020.

Piedmont is sometimes called the

land of the 3 Bs. That is Barolo, Barbaresco, and the third: Barbera. unlike the first two, Barbera is a grape, not an appellation, that grows in numerous locations, most of which are in the Piedmont region. The wines made from Barbera are lighter-bodied with less tannins and a slightly higher acidity. If you like Pinot noir, you will very likely enjoy Barbera. Two famous Piemonte locations where this wine is produced are the areas around the towns of Alba and Asti. I would recommend the Mauro Molino-Barbera D'Alba 2022, or the Roberto Ferraris-Barbera d'Asti 2022. Both are very reasonably priced and pair well with tomato-based pasta meals, smoked meats, pizza, risotto, and anything with mushrooms. There are a few white wines that Piemonte is famous for as well that you should become acquainted with. Arneis is a grape grown in the Roero DOCG of Piedmont. The soil there is much sandier, giving Arneis beautiful fruity notes of peaches and pears. This medium-bodied dry white wine is a wine for all occasions. If you are craving a white wine with more body but without the buttery or oaky notes of Chardonnay, Arneis may be your new best friend. Try the Malvira–Roero Arneis 2022. It’s outstanding with pesto or alfredo sauces, fish, shellfish, cheese, smoked meats, vegetables, Space prohibits covering every wine of the region, but I will mention that if you enjoy sweeter wines, look to the Piedmont. Moscato d’Asti is a lightly effervescent white from the region, and Brachetto is its light red cousin. Bartenura makes a great example of both of these lightly sweet and refreshing wines. For dry rosé fans, the Proprieta Sperino-Rosa del Rosa 2022 is Piemonte’s outstanding contribution.

I hope you enjoyed the first week of our Italian Wine Tour. If the history and wines of Italy interest you, I invite you to join me at Passion Vines for our three-week Wine Foundations: Italy class in September. Details can be found on our events webpage. As always, contact me with any questions or stop in the store. until next time, arrivederci and Happy Wining!

David Setley is enjoying his retirement from higher education as a wine educator and certified sommelier at Passion Vines in Somers Point, New Jersey.

The Queen Bean offers culinary royalty in Ventnor with a view

By Scott Cronick

Name one restaurant on the Atlantic City/Ventnor boardwalk where you can sit on the Boardwalk level and enjoy everything from a handcrafted cup of coffee in the morning to an upscale dinner in the evening while watching the waves crash while people stroll by?

If you’re having trouble, it’s OK.

Because there is just one: The Queen Bean Bistro in Ventnor.

With no dunes obstructing the gorgeous ocean view paired with new business owners who have dramatically changed the restaurant inside Vassar Square, The Queen Bean Bistro is undeniably the best-kept secret on Absecon Island.

Since taking over in October, busi -

ness partners Beau Ridge and Chef Salvatore Giambrone are reinventing the way people breakfast, lunch and dinner in Ventnor, and this reinvention is certainly worth your visit.

With a madefrom-scratch approach to every dish, and Giambrone’s insistence on sourcing as many local ingredients as he possibly can – the chef actually goes shopping for local ingredients nearly every day – The Queen Bean is doing things right.

Perfect Partners

And while you can get everything from a decadent smashburger to a veal cutlet, The Queen Bean certainly has a healthy cooking approach. Giambrone takes pride in using clean, healthy ingredients without sacrificing flavor. He uses real butter, no seed oils, and nearly every dish can be gluten-free on request.

Both Ridge and Giambrone are pretty well-known in South Jersey for different reasons.

Ridge is best known for Beau Ridge Photography, perhaps the n o. 1 wedding and personal photography company in South Jersey. If he and his team haven’t shot a wedding you were at, they undoubtedly shot one of the many events you have attended over the last couple of decades.

After attending a vocational high school for cooking, Giambrone relocated here to study at ACA, where he met his wife and, after a brief stint moving to Maryland, returned to build a home and family in egg Harbor Township.

“I think working in the industry from high school as a dishwasher and a prep guy and working my way up is the best way,” Giambrone said. “You learn humility and teamwork.”

Along the way, Giambrone has owned his own catering company and worked for the Stone Harbor and Ocean City yacht clubs. But it was his stint working in the former upstairs Supper Club at Jon & Patty’s in Ocean City that actually made the Queen Bean happen.

The Taleses operated Queen Bean for two seasons, and according to Giambrone, were ready to pass it on.

“We started with photography, and we are still doing it,” said Ridge, who also has shown his entrepreneurial side in various ventures that include Queen Bean. “The community has been really great to us, so it’s time to venture into some other wonderful experiences. Our approach is to always service the local community. South Jersey is who we are. I get to work with people who celebrate down here, and maybe I’m a little jaded, but I like when people smile at me.”

One bite of Giambrone’s food and people will keep smiling.

The veteran chef has been feeding South Jersey for more than 25 years. A Brooklyn transport who came to the area to study at the Academy of the Culinary Arts in Mays Landing, Giambrone grew up around food in an Italian household.

“I was always interested in cooking,” Giambrone said. “I was always watching my grandparents, especially my grandfather. every year we would do the Feast of the Seven Fishes, and my uncle would do all of this food, and I would help him with it.”

“Jon called me, and it was perfect timing,” Giambrone said. “He called me last fall and told me to come and try it out, and, ‘If you like it, I will hand you the keys.’”

Giambrone, who knew Ridge because they trained in jiu-jitsu together for many years, approached the businessman about teaming up. And it has been a great partnership ever since.

“I have been invested in other restaurants before, but I have never had the control and support I have with Beau,” Giambrone said. “So, this is a big step for me and my family. Beau and I bow out to each others’ judgment based on the experience in the area. The fact that I have the

↘Continued on 56

restaurant experience and the experience of making mistakes and learning and doing work for other people and learning from them is a huge asset. We both bring different skills and connections to the restaurant, and that’s been great.”

“It’s been absolutely amazing,” Ridge agreed. “The running joke is because we met through martial arts that if we ever need to settle something, we can hit the mats and figure it out. In martial arts you have to trust those who train with you and you have to respect them. And that’s a life lesson we both bring to our business, professional and personal relationships. There is a lot of trust, no ego. We are just committed to each others’ successes - and the team’s success - and the community.”

The Queen Bean received quite a bit of renovations over the winter to transform it from a breakfast and lunch spot to a restaurant that also offers a memorable dinner experience. Wall colors changed. Custom-built tables were made by Giambrone’s father-in law. A staff member constructed the gorgeous counter area. And, of course, Giambrone experimented with the menu.

“We took advantage of the winter to make it more our vision aesthetically,” Ridge said. “We always had

the vision to bring an elevated dining experience here, and we had to do some changes to allow for that.”

If you are looking for Beau Ridge Photography on the walls, you won’t find it.

“We decided to do historical photos of Ventnor,” Ridge said. “That’s who we are. That’s the community.”

With 40 seats inside and about another 40 outside right on the boardwalk, The Queen Bean offers a bustling breakfast and lunch experience, as well as a more intimate, boutique dining experience with a killer view.

“There are places that are elevated where you can see the ocean and boardwalk, and there are places right on the boardwalk (with dunes obstructing view), but we are the

Happy Dads Day Specials

only place where you can sit on the boardwalk and have a clear line of sight to see, hear and smell the ocean and beach and have that full environment of breakfast, lunch and that elevated dining experience,” Ridge said. “It just doesn’t exist in this area. It’s awesome we can offer that.”

And while it’s hard not to keep bragging about that view, the food is the main attraction.

Breakfast All Day

Although Ridge and Giambrone are really concentrating on developing a dinner crowd – more on that later – breakfast is the bread and butter (or toast and jelly?) for The Queen Bean Bistro.

And its large menu certainly takes advantage of that customer base.

Dads Day Dinner Menu June 13-16 with Live Music

Friday 6/14 - Andy Berlin

Saturday 6/15 - Phil Stocker

Sunday 6/16 - Beth Tinnon

APPS

E R I B 2 8

se r v e d w i t h ma s hed pot a t o an d

g r i l led a s pa r ag u s , t opped w it h

Bleu c heese c r ab c r eam sa u c e

CE D A R PL A N K SALM O N 2 3

se r v e d w i t h g r il l e d sum m e r v ege t ab l e

STUF F E D F LO UNDE R

F LO R EN T IN E 2 5

st u ff e d w i t h spin ach , r ed peppe r, su n - d r ie d t o m a t o w i t h m as h

po t a t o an d g r i l le d a sp a r a g u s , t oppe d w it h le mon d i l l c r e a m sa u c e

“A n y ma n ca n b e a fa t he r , b u t i t ta k e s s om e o ne spe cia l to b e a d a d Anne G edde s

If you like a great omelet, Giambrone will make one for you. every egg – sourced fresh form Walking Dog Farms in Galloway - is cracked, whipped and made in real butter fresh to order. Ridge is particularly fond of the Italian ($16) with roasted peppers, smoked ham –smoked by a friend of Giambrone’s – basil, truffled burrata and olive oil. The Smoky Westerner ($15) would be my choice with smoked pork butt, brown sugar, caramelized peppers and onions, and house-made pepper jack cheese.

But Giambrone says foodies – and true egg lovers – will appreciate the French-style omelet ($15), which is softer and wetter than you will find omelets in most places. Giambrone’s creation features caramelized mushrooms and a homemade herb-infused cream cheese.

“Breakfast is my favorite meal to eat,” Giambrone said. “And I like to cook for people how I cook for myself. I only use real butter. I use avocado oil. I don’t use any of those soy blends or anything like that.”

You will find fresh eggs on three breakfast sandwiches with the Vax’adilin ($17) really standing out. n amed in honor of Dungeons & Dragons, which Giambrone likes to play with his kids and their friends, this monster of a sandwich features smoked ham or applewood bacon, avocado smash, Cooper sharp cheese and provolone on a buttered, grilled sourdough rye bread sourced from Fluffy Farms in egg Harbor Township.

“A lot of places do sourdough bread, but you don’t typically find a sour rye,” Giambrone said of the local, scratch bakery. “It adds a whole other layer of complexity to it.”

There’s also a lox and white fish platters ($18 each), along with healthier items such as avocado toast ($17), an acai bowl ($16) and fruit and yogurt ($15). even the pancakes can be considered healthy even though they are some of the best pancakes you will have on the island. They are gluten-free – even though you won’t know it - and Chef Sal’s Hot Cakes ($15) feature blueberries, housemade granola and a peanut butter smear topped with whipped cream.

“ even the avocado toast features a farm bread that my wife Melissa makes,” Giambrone said. “When you toast it, the outside gets really crispy, and the inside stays soft.”

Melissa Giambrone is also responsible for other fresh-baked Queen Bean goods, including the scones, another Ridge favorite that is gaining popularity as more people discover it. The latest flavors include apple cinnamon and raspberry peach.

“She has to perfect things to the point that she stays up until 3 in the morning to master it,” Giambrone said. “We inherited the idea of scones from Jon and Patty, and Melissa just ran with it. They are awesome.”

Speaking of peanut butter, my favorite breakfast item is the Lavished Monkey ($15), a clever item featuring espresso-infused peanut butter and banana wrapped and grilled inside lavash (Armenian bread) and then topped with a homemade berry compote, house granola, whipped cream and honey drizzle. Outstanding!

Other than the pancakes, Ridge steers people toward Stella’s Campfire French Toast ($16) boasting two thick slices of challah bread dipped in egg batter and then dredged in Biscotti cookie crust, stuffed with marshmallow Fluff, grilled, and then finished with dark chocolate shavings, berries and whipped cream.

mint and raw honey. There’s also the Arcadian ($15) with house greens, english cucumbers, marinated tomatoes, dried cherries, red onions and Bulgarian feta cheese with fig-maple balsamic dressing; and the Jersey Sear ($16) with seared, thick-cut tomatoes, Bulgarian feta and avocado dollops served on microgreens with crushed crostini and finished with basil olive oil.

every sandwich on the menu sounds like a masterpiece.

The Bourbon Steer ($16) is not for the light eater with 3-hour braised beef, Cooper sharp and bourbon-caramelized onions on a seeded French baguette; the Angry Tony P ($18) is an Italian delicacy with mortadella, truffled burrata, spicy arugula, crushed pistachios and cherry red peppers on the baguette; the go-to deli sandwich is the Romania Setter ($16) with seared pastrami, potatoes, onions and peppers with spicy mustard and melted Swiss on grilled sour rye; and the King George ($16) immediately ranks as one of the best smashburgers in South Jersey with sweet onion and melted Cooper sharp cooked in beef tallow, drizzled with Chef Carlos Marsini’s famous, locally made “King Sauce” and served on a gorgeous brioche baked from my favorite bakery - Hammerbacher in egg Harbor City.

Lunch = Brunch

While breakfast is served from opening to 3 p.m., lunch begins at 11 a.m. and is certainly worth exploring. The small lunch menu features about a half dozen sandwiches and a few salads, but paired with the large breakfast menu, it’s one of the best brunch experiences you will find in South Jersey.

Salads are a big hit, and Giambrone’s leafy blends sound like summer bliss, particularly the perfectly named Summer Salad ($15) with fresh fruit and berries tossed with fresh

boursin cheese, chopped dill and charred balsamic onions served with english cucumbers and toasted sour rye; the Yacht Club ($21) is a customer favorite with jumbo shrimp gently poached in aromatics and served with lemons and citrus cocktail or “dirty” with a house-spice blend; and the Michael Anthony’s ($18) gets the Italian juices flowing with charred red bell peppers and warm truffled burrata served on house-made rosemary-thyme farm bread finished with Greek olive oil

and spicy raw honey.

Three salads are worth the trip alone, including The Guzzio ($21) with poached shrimp, clams and octopus marinated in grilled onion, lemon and garlic tossed with blistered cherry tomatoes and arugula.

There are more than a half dozen entrees with something for everyone. Many foodies say they never order chicken when they go out, but make an exception for Gary’s Style ($39) with a house-butchered, deboned half roasted chicken – halal – served over bechamel and topped with crispy pancetta and smoked paprika.

↘Continued on 58

“It’s the best smashburger I have had anywhere,” Ridge said.

Dinner is Served

While The Queen Bean’s menu offers flavor and creativeness all day, Giambrone particulary shines at dinner, where the oceanside restaurant is transformed physically – lights dim, linen napkins come out, servers dress the part – and culinarily.

The menu is perfectly sized, and just like breakfast and lunch, everything is made with the freshest ingredients to order.

Start with the Baked Josh ($19), pastrami-smoked salmon that is seasoned in house with warm

Monday-Saturday 7am-9pm • Sunday 7am-4pm

If you’re looking for a new seafood experience, try the King of england ($39) with cracker-encrusted King Clip Fish – a tasty, white fish – seared in beurre noisette and served with rich seafood tomato sauce and finished with a vinegar aioli.

“It’s a very mild fish with a nice, meaty texture,” Giambrone said. “It’s a fantastic fish.”

And the chef is super proud of the Veal Giambrone ($40) with thinly pounded and pinned veal that is flour dusted, seared and topped with sliced mortadella, truffled burrata and arugula and finished with a cherry pepper broth.

“A lot of the dishes on the dinner menu are more nostalgic and incorporate names from my family and family ties that I have grown to love,” Giambrone said. “The veal dish is so good. I hand pound it, which is the best way to do it. I’m only allowed to have it once a year (because of its decadence).”

Don’t leave without trying the homemade desserts ($12) including the Aunt Tootsie Vera, which will make you a fan of lemon pound cake with just one forkful that features lemon icing and served with vanilla ice cream; and the Perfect Marriage, a to-die-for peanut butter cheesecake.

“I think what sets us apart is that

breakfast and lunch is a little more casual, and then dinner offers a different, elevated dining experience,”

Ridge said. “The amazing experience of the ocean, the boardwalk and the salt air … why not have that same experience for dinner? You can come for breakfast, lunch and dinner and have a totally different experience for each one.”

Coffee, Please!

Coffee, of course, takes center stage at Queen Bean all day long. There is no better place on the island to sip a barista-prepared coffee while sitting on the boards looking at the ocean. And for $5.25, the specialty lattes are quite a deal coming in at 16 ounces.

Favorites include the signature Queen Bean with brown sugar, cinnamon and vanilla; the Purple Reign with lavender and vanilla; the Bee Sting with peppermint and vanilla; the Sunrise with orange blossom and vanilla; the Camp Fire with chocolate, marshmallow and graham cracker; the Snickers with caramel hazelnut and chocolate; and many more.

“We narrowed it down from what Jon and Patty had to the home runs, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make most of what Jon and Patty offered before,” Giambrone said.

More To Come?

Although the Queen Bean is relatively new, Ridge and Giambrone have other visions.

“ eventually, we want to grow and have other locations geared toward our community,” said Ridge, who is in the midst of opening another location nearby with Giambrone that they will announce soon. “We have such a great thing going on in Ventnor offering good, clean, healthy and amazing

food. We have such a great local community that wants to support us and this style of dining. So, we are very fortunate.”

(The Queen Bean Bistro is located at 4800 Boardwalk, inside Vassar Square, Ventnor. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursdays to Mondays for breakfast and lunch. 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays to Saturdays for dinner. Hours may expand in peak summer. Call 609-428-7116 or go to TheQueenBeanBistro.com)

Scott Cronick is an awardwinning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades. He hosts a daily radio show – "Off The Press with Scott Cronick" - 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com, and he also co-owns Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall in Atlantic City, while working on various projects, including charitable efforts, throughout the area. He can be reached at scronick@ comcast.net.

Atlantic City Headliners

Friday, June 7

Patti LaBelle

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Carbonaro: Live on Stage

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Jay Leno

▶9 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars

Saturday, June 15

Gipsy Kings feat. Nicolas Reyes

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Rick Springfield and Richard

Marx

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Andy Bell of Erasure

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars

Forever Seger

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Thursday, June 20

Kurt Vile and the Violators

▶8 p.m.

Anchor Rock Club

Friday, June 21

A Day to Remember

▶7 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Justin Silva

▶7:30 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

An Evening with John Legend

▶8 p.m. Borgata event Center

Happy Together Tour

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Prince Royce & Wisin

▶8 p.m. Adrian Phillips Theater at Boardwalk Hall

The Australian Pink Floyd Show

▶9 p.m. Tropicana Showroom

Eric Roberson & Avery Sunshine

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars

Schoolly D

▶9 p.m. Anchor Rock Club

Saturday, June 22

Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

▶7 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Sheng Wang

▶8 p.m. Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Wednesday, July 3

Kesha

▶9 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Friday, July 5

Pat McGann

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Saturday, July 6

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Hasan Minhaj

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars

Sunday, July 7

Donny Osmond

▶7 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Friday, July 12

Brian McKnight

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

The Disco Biscuits

▶9 p.m.

ORDER

The B-52’s

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

A Night of Love AC w/ Keyshia Cole,

Trey Songz, Jaheim

▶8 p.m. Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

Barenaked Ladies

▶8 p.m. Tropicana Showroom

Kev Herrera

▶7 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Chris Distefano and Sam Morril

▶7 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars

Friday, June 28

Dave Chappelle

▶7 p.m. & 10 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Lynyrd Skynyrd

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Jeff Arcuri

▶7 p.m. The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, June 29

Jon Batiste

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Eric D’Alessandro

▶7 p.m. & 10 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Temptations Review feat. Dennis

Edwards

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Sweet

▶9 p.m. Golden nugget Atlantic City

Sherya Ghoshal

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Bourbon Ballroom at Showboat

Christopher Cross

▶9 p.m. Harrah’s Atlantic City

Saturday, July 13

Peach at the Beach Festival w/ Joe

Russo’s Almost Dead, Dogs in a Pile & More

▶Island Waterpark at Showboat

Atlantic City Beer & Music Fest

Summer Session w/ Fortunate Youth & The Menzingers

▶12 – 4 p.m. & 6 – 10 p.m.

Bader Field

The O’Jays

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Steve Trevino

▶7 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Impractical Jokers

▶6 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

An Evening with Amos Lee

▶8 p.m. The Music Box at Borgata

Blue Oyster Cult

▶9 p.m.

Golden nugget Atlantic City

Marco Benevento w/ Doom

Flamingo

▶11:30 p.m.

Bourbon Ballroom at Showboat

On-Sale This Week

Nate Bargatze

▶Fri. August 2, 7:30 & 10:30 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Katt Williams

▶Sat. April 5, 2025, 8 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

All tickets on-sale Fri. June 7, 10 a.m.

Free Outdoor Concerts

Brigantine Summer Concert Series based saxophonist who will bring a stellar lineup of 18 of

free outdoor concert. enjoy live music by the Funky Boys, plus plenty of

ATLANTICARE CONCERTS ON THE BEACH IN SOMERS POINT

VOTED USA TODAY BEST OUTDOOR CONCERT SERIES

June 14 Bywater Call Hot Emerging Americana/Canadian Roots Rock & Jam with Southern Soul

June 21 The Billy Walton Band with Destinee Monroe Jersey Shore Rock and Soul Guitar Hero

June 28 Dane Anthony Band

Rock, Motown, Funk, Disco, Soul & Blues One of The Best Party Bands In The Northeast

July 4 John Cafferty & Beaver Brown Band

Celebrate Somers Point Legacy of Eddie & The Cruisers: Hear “Dark Side” “Wild Summer Nights” “Tender Years”

July 5 Mardi Gras In July

31st Season Fridays 7pm

Waylon Thibodeaux, World Class Cajun Fiddler Ben Levin, Bourbon Street Entertainer, Party Music with Danny Eyer

July 12 Ladies Night Double Header

Dana Fuchs Off Broadway “Across The Universe” To The Beatles Music Movie And Her Songs On The Billboard Charts "The Girls Can't Help It" Tribute To The Women Of Rock N’ Roll, 60’s To Today

July 19 The Phantom Blues Band

Special Guest Star Curtis Salgado

Multi Grammy Awards Winners, Soul Blues and BMA Award Winners

Heather 'Lil' Mama' Hardy on violin

July 26 Tony Mart Legacy Last Waltz

Starring The Radiators’ Dave Malone, Bonerama’s Mark Mullins, Honey Island Swamp Band, Bob Margolin & Johnny Sansone Doing Original Songs From The Martin Scorsese Movie

Aug 2 Tom Hambridge & The Rattlesnakes

Preeminent Nashville Producer Of The Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Zz Top, Susan Tedeschi

Aug 9 Third World

One Of The Greatest And Most Popular Reggae Bands In The World: “Now That We’ve Found Love” “Try Jah Love” “96 Degrees In The Shade”

Aug 16 Wildflower 70’s Night at Tony Mart’s

With Original Members Who Played Somers Point In 1970! Popular Horn Band Sounds of Chicago, Earth Wind & Fire And Philly Funk E Street Shuffle

Premiere Springsteen Tribute Band

Aug 23 Jimmy Carpenter Band

Saxophone Star & Musical Director Of The Big Easy Cruise New Orleans Party Music

Aug 30 Joe Lewis Walker & his Big Band

Grammy nominated blues rock star! Fat Mezz

South Jersey's hottest young rock & rollers

Sept 6 Tony Mart Allstars Classic Rock, Country Rock, red

New Wave Dance Party, World Class Original Music

Attendance is free to the public, and there will be limited snacks and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase at each concert. In the event of inclement weather, concert venue changes or cancellations will be posted to the Somers Point Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SomersPoint.

Platinum Sponsor

Boys & Girls Club to Honor Legacy of Chris Ford at June Madness Basketball Weekend

The Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City will host the second annual Chris Ford Memorial Basketball Tournament June 7-9, at the club’s evolution Arena, 317 n . Pennsylvania Ave., Atlantic City. The weekend will honor the memory of basketball player and coach Chris Ford and recognize those in the community who are continuing his legacy.

Honoring Those Who Continue the Legacy

Liane and Lloyd Levenson and evolution will be presented with the Chris Ford Memorial Award at the June Madness Kickoff Cocktail Party at the evolution Arena Friday, June 7 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Liane and Lloyd Levenson, along with Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law, have supported the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City for more than 40 years. In addition, Liane led the committee to renovate the Teen Center area. Award co-recipient evolution provided $300,000 to complete the project. The event will feature an awards ceremony, members of Chris Ford’s

family, and a special news announcement for the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City.

Competing for a Cause

On Saturday and Sunday, there will be an eight-team, single elimination basketball tournament. Corporate teams and community sponsors will play for the Club Cup. e ach of the teams is required to have two female players on their roster to underscore the important role that women play in sports, and to show members of the Boys & Girls Club that any goal is attainable to them. For tickets and more information, visit https://www.acbgc.org/ junemadness2024/.

“The community has embraced this event as a way to support the pivotal programs that empower our youth, especially those who need us most,” said Dr. Charles A. Wallace II, CeO, Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. “We are thankful to all who have supported us, and proud to be able to remember an individual who

made such a difference in the lives of our kids. Chris Ford volunteered his time as a coach and mentor in our recreational basketball program. His influence has touched countless colleagues, fans, and youth in the Atlantic City area, and we are honored to continue that legacy.”

An Atlantic City native, Chris Ford graduated from Holy Spirit High School. He attended Villanova university, where he led his team to three consecutive n CAA Tournaments. From there, Ford was drafted to the

Detroit Pistons in 1972 and eventually went on to finish his time as an n BA player with the Boston Celtics in 1978. Ford was part of the Celtics’ n BA Championship team in 1981 but is perhaps best known for making the first official three-point shot in professional basketball history. He spent his final years in the n BA as a coach, ending with a tenure at the Philadelphia 76ers.

Chris Ford has a long history of volunteerism with the youth basketball programs at the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s, he volunteered his time to coach and mentor Club members who were playing recreational ball in its gym. In 2021, Ford served on the GO HOOPS Committee to renovate the gym into a state-of-art arena. He passed away in early 2023; the Club and community recognize his legacy with the n BA as well as his influence and involvement in Atlantic City and its surrounding communities.

6/7

6/8

6/9

6/14

6/16

6/21 6pm-9pm

6/22 11am-2pm

6/23 12pm-3pm

6/28

6/29

6/30

Fairy Tales Come Alive at Children’s Summer Playhouse Series

Prepare to follow a rabbit down his hole, lose a glass slipper and battle against a giant in the sky at Stockton u niversity’s Performing Arts Center this July and August.

The Children’s Summer Playhouse is back by popular demand and promises to be a treat for kids and families alike. All performances will begin at 11 a.m., and a show-themed craft activity will be available in the lobby starting at 10 a.m.

“Alice in Wonderland” – Wednesday, July 10

Alice decides to follow a white rabbit down a rabbit hole and soon encounters whimsical characters in Wonderland. During her adventure, she joins a tea party, comes face to face with the Queen of Hearts and has to fight the queen’s army of playing cards.

“Cinderella” – Wednesday, July 24

After a life spent inside full of chores and with only birds and rats for companionship, Cinderella is soon

whisked away to an unforgettable night with Prince Charming. She loses her glass slipper as she runs away from the ball, but the prince is determined to find her — one foot at a time.

“Jack and the Beanstalk” –Wednesday, Aug. 7

An irresponsible boy named Jack trades his cow for magic beans instead of food, earning the ire of his mother in the process. Soon, however, the beans turn out to be magic after all. Join Jack as he ventures up the beanstalk, where he finds golden eggs and a burly giant that doesn’t take kindly to thieves.

Tickets for each Children’s Summer Playhouse performance are $15 for the general public and children (12 and under). Special pricing is also available for groups of 10 or more people.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit stockton.edu/pac. Tickets are also available at the Stockton Performing Arts Center box office from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 90 minutes before showtime. Call 609-652-9000.

Plenty of room for indie music, cover bands at the Jersey Shore

Tune In, Turn On

By Doug Deutsch

Summer at the Jersey Shore. There’s nothing like it, right? The beach, ocean, casinos, great food… and a slew of quality music choices, both original bands and those that are tribute/ cover acts, to spend your time and hard-earned money seeing (unless they’re free, which many shows are). Without further ado, here's a few.

“Coastal Chaos” (Anchor Rock Club):

Local promoter norstep launches its newest brand with a four-band bill Saturday, June 22 at the coolest indie live music venue in AC, Anchor Rock Club.

and fast, with moshing, goes this one. www.anchorrockclub.com.

TABH Rocks All Summer: n ot far from the Anchor in AC’s Orange Loop sits Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, where there’s some nice music choices this summer to enjoy while sitting outside under the stars on a warm Jersey Shore night.

Shore Dogs (June 21, 8 p.m.) is a classic rock band formed by Aram Mardigian, whose ‘day job’ is executive chef at Borgata’s American Grill. They play “an eclectic mix of blues, covering artists from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Willie Dixon, and sprinkling in classic rock tunes from Hendrix to Led Zeppelin,” states their press release.

July 5 finds a solo performance here by eliot Lewis, erstwhile known as touring guitarist and keyboardist for Hall and Oates.

In August, two of our favorite rockin’ cover groups are at TABH: Aug. 10, it’s 13-year-old-and-growingquickly Kobi Reese, whose still-young still-changing voice does justice to

“With Gecko County, Innlet, Pusch, and Apollo taking the stage, you’ll get to see first-hand the next generation of rock is in capable hands,” said n orstep’s n oranne Thompson via email (she and partner Stephen Weiss run n orstep). “Gecko County and Innlet are local to the Atlantic City area, while Apollo and Pusch are from n ew York and promise to bring the heat with them to the beach. Get ready to mosh as this event is going to be high energy!”

Advance tickets are $10 purchasable on eventbrite (then search for n orstep). Add $5 and get a hot dog plus a bag of chips. ARC is at 247 S. n ew York Ave.

P.S. run, don’t walk (better yet, uber if you’re going to drink) to the triple bill of returning AC punk rock champions Gutter Drunk, guitar hero Reckless Randy, and The Washups, at Anchor this Friday, June 7. Hard, loud

is to alleviate food and security by empowering communities with fresh produce, education, and advocacy for sustainable food systems.

About those Red Meat fellows, yea, their fans “moo” and some dress in absurdly funny cow-camouflage onesies. Their cool band swag gets a plus (still have my RMC moo-bell from the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day Parade they played and we marched in together). Check them out June 21, 4-7 p.m. at Fisherman’s Park in Atlantic City. $15. Suggested donation. A north 2 Shore-sponsored event. Info: www.northtoshore.com.

Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@ gmail.com and www.facebook. com/dougdeutschpublicity.

songs by Guns n ’ Roses, Metallica and other classics. We like that he plays with both older musicians and teens his own age, or only slightly older than himself. He’s the new ‘Kid Rock.’

Aug. 17 it’s Pure Petty (pictured above), who cooly cover the classic and numerous Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers hits, with the interesting twist of having a female vocalist who handles the Stevie n icks parts from Petty’s songs. Shore Local columnist Chuck Darrow holds down the bass in this popular tribute.

All TABH shows are 8-11 p.m. and free. 133 S. Tennessee Ave. www. tennesseeavenuebeerhall.com.

Moo If You Support C.R.O.P.S.: One of this column’s favorite local rock ensembles, Red Meat Conspiracy, will hit the stage with a sure-tobe-fun The Barn Show, for a great cause – nJ-based non-profit organization C.R.O.P. S., whose mission

SATURDAY - jUNE 29, 2024 - 6:00pm - $90 00 Per Person a nd enjoy a live show that you don't want to miss! The Beat Tells, a premier tribute band, will captivate you with a walk through time. Sharing your favorite Beatles tunes from the early years through all the eras of greatness! Price includes show ticket with assigned seating, gourmet dinner buffet, non-alcoholic drinks, tax and service fee.

Pure Petty do Tom Petty right Aug.17 at the Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall.

Tropicana dives back into the show biz pool

By Chuck Darrow

As we reach the midpoint of 2024, one thing is certain: The best casino-entertainment news of the year so far is the rededication to entertainment on the part of Tropicana Atlantic City.

There was a time when the Trop’s 2,000-seat showroom was a big-time player in the top-tier-show-business game: Johnny Mathis, Patti LaBelle, The Moody Blues and Ray Romano were just some of the performers who hit the facility that boasts what is believed to be the second-largest proscenium stage on the east Coast, bested only by the one at Manhattan’s famed Radio City Music Hall. But several years of mismanagement by previous ownership interested solely on wringing as much profit as possible from the adult playpen, caused the venue to be dark 90-or-more-

percent of the time.

The Trop’s current corporate parent, Casears entertainment Inc., has obviously recognized the folly of such a strategy, and this year, things have changed in a huge way.

“The previous owner’s philosophy was to pull back…and just really watch expenses,” offered Joseph Giunta, the gaming hall’s general manager.

“And when you think about the name ‘Tropicana,’ it exudes ‘party’ and ‘fun’ and ‘entertainment’ and ‘music’ and that sort of thing. So, we just felt like it was time to get back to the roots and really put on a show for people on a consistent basis.

“We were having about 20 showroom activations a year; this year, our goal is to do 60 or 70.”

While competitors like Borgata and Ocean tend to gear their show biz strategies toward reaching a younger, hipper crowd, under Giunta, who has spent the past 25 years in various management positions at Caesars-owned properties here in AyCee, Tropicana is taking a different, more inclusive path with its bookings.

“The way we think about it is that Tropicana is the casino for all ages,” he said. “We believe that we have so much to do for everybody. And I think

our entertainment philosophy kind of mirrors that. We're casting a wide net; we want as many customers as possible that have not experienced Tropicana to come in. We want to expose all the things we have to offer to a wide variety of new customers.”

“On May 11, we brought back boxing; Tropicana used to be known for boxing. It was a big step for us to put our feet back in those waters.” He added he expects another card to be staged next month, though nothing has yet been officially announced.

So, what’s cooking in the the Trop’s show biz kitchen? Among the attractions on the books for the next few months are rock and pop bands (Barenaked Ladies, June 22; Asia, July 12; a super-cool double-bill of Boy George and Squeeze, Sept. 14); comedians (Fortune Feimster, July 6; Joe Santagado and Frank Alvarez from the popular “The Basement Yard experience” podcast, July 27) and specialty programs like “RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars” (Sept. 21). There’s even a live staging of the classic TV game show, “The Price Is Right” (Oct. 4-6).

And, of course, this being 2024, there are tribute acts covering a wide variety of musical legends. They include “Queen Of the night—Musical Tribute to Whitney Houston” (June 27); “The Australian Pink Floyd Show” (June 28); “ZOSO—The ultimate Led Zeppelin Tribute” (July 5) and “Rhinestone Cowgirls—Legendary Ladies of Country Music” (Oct. 24).

There will also be a series of 3 p.m. matinees, staged primarily for the charter-bus crowd. These include the Houston tribute, “Motortown Soul Celebration” (Motown revue, June 17), “Hooray For Hollywood” (July 25) and “Bachelors of Broadway—Gentlemen Of the Theater” (Aug. 22).

While the Trop will continue its long-standing tradition of hosting martial-arts smackdowns (Lou n eglia’s Ring of Combat 84 Champion MMA, June 7), Giunta is especially jazzed by the return of boxing.

However, there is one genre of entertainment from which Tropicana will be refraining for the foreseeable future. Although in the past, such shows as “Cats” and “Rent” had multi-week runs there, they’ll be no “Broadway on the Boardwalk” plans in the works. It’s a decision, explained Giunta, that was based on business, rather than artistic, considerations.

“Typically,” he said, theatrical producers “want long-run shows. But we just don't seem to have the demand to be able to do that for a bunch of nights in a row. And, we really chose not to focus on those because, they're in here on weekends, and it's tough to get a lot of retail business in here and sell rooms on a weekend when we're filling them with players.

“So, that's kind of a tough thing for us.”

For a complete schedule of events, go to caesars.com/tropicana-ac/ shows.

A ‘wicket’ good time at Hard Rock

It’s not every day a casino stages an event for cricket fans, but that’s exactly what Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City is doing this Sunday. At 10 a.m., the Lobby Bar is hosting a viewing party for the T20 match between India and Pakistan. Admission is free.

Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.

Tropicana General Manager Joseph Giunta is betting on a dramatically increased entertainment schedule for his property.

31 & June 1-2 & 7-9

&

Sept. 27-29 & Oct. 4-6

JERSEY SHORE POPS

tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber & Sarah Brightman august 24

Historic Society Film, Dial “M” for Murder september 13

SJ Jazz Festival

October 10 - 12

The Night Side

November 2, 8, 9 7pm November 3

Jersey Shore Medium november 16

Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, June 6

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge

Sarah Crowell. 5:30 – 9 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

DJ neek. 8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Dane Anthony. 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Glitter Bar at Resorts

Karaoke night w/ Cowboy Kevin

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

3AM Tokyo. 7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Linwood

Fox Den at LCC

Tom & Kim. 6 – 10 p.m.

500 Shore Rd.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Atley Moon & The Say Somethings

6 – 10 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Karaoke Hosted by Mike Dempsey

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Fitzpatrick’s

Glen eric. 5 – 8 p.m.

650 new Rd.

Mexiquila

Chris Farrell. 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

101 e . Maryland Ave.

Queen Jayne’s

Cosmic Charlie. 6 – 9 p.m.

264 new Rd.

The Point

Billy Walton Band. 6 – 10 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Ventnor

Ventnor Coffee

Open Mic n ight w/ Pete Glaze & T

Five. 6:30 – 9 p.m.

108 n . Dorset Ave.

Friday, June 7

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Dominick Martino. 6 p.m.

Kevin Story. 9:15 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

Gutter Drunk, Reckless Randy, The Washups. 8 p.m.

247 S. new York Ave.

Council Oak at Hard Rock

Jeremy Raves Trio. 6 – 9 p.m.

DJ Yonah. 10 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

DB Duo

7 p.m.

The Zoo

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Matt Adams Duo. 6 – 10 p.m.

Tragic Remedy. 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Balcony at Hard Rock Santi. 10 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Don’t Call Me Francis. 7:30 – 11:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Glitter Bar at Resorts

Glenn Roberts. 6 – 9 p.m.

DJ Gary. 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Sean Patrick & The Alibis

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Yard at Bally’s

DJ Reed Streets. 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Amish Outlaws. 10 p.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino no Standards. 9:30 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Goody Blue Shoes. 6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor City

Renault Winery

Philly Keys. 6 – 10 p.m.

72 n . Bremen Ave.

Egg Harbor Township

The Roost Pub & Grill

Tony & Taylor Duo. 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr. Galloway

Romanelli’s Garden Café

Rob McMahon. 6 – 9 p.m.

279 S. new York Rd.

Linwood

Fox Den at LCC

Danny eyer. 6 – 10 p.m.

500 Shore Rd.

Margate

Bocca

Mitchell Faber. 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

The Zone. 6 – 10 p.m.

Dylan Perry. 8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Millville

Levoy Theatre

Taytay Dance Party. 7 p.m.

126-130 n . High St.

Smithville

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

neil Miranda. 7 – 10 p.m.

1 n new York Rd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Haley and Timmy Duo. 4 – 7 p.m.

Dinamics Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Fitzpatrick’s

Andy Berlin. 5 – 8 p.m.

650 new Rd.

Josie Kelly’s

Tom & Bill. 6 – 9 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

The Point

ear Candy. 6 – 10 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater Marina

Goodman Fiske Band. 7 – 11 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

early Times & The High Rollers

7:30 p.m.

217 e . Main St.

Saturday, June 8

Absecon

Reddog’s Hi Point Pub

Brandon Ireland Band. 8 p.m.

5 n . Shore Rd.

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Jeremy Oren. 6 p.m.

Kristina Pruitt. 9:15 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

Caged w/ Raw Life, Slighted, Savage Mystic, Spiritbomb. 7 p.m.

247 S. new York Ave.

Council Oak at Hard Rock

Paul Jost Trio. 6 – 9 p.m.

DJ Dr1ft. 10 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Atley Moon Dup. 7 p.m.

Coming Alive. 10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Steve Moore. 5 – 9 p.m. Whitewalls. 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall

Glenn Roberts. 8 – 11 p.m.

133 S. Tennessee Ave.

The Balcony at Hard Rock

K Fry. 10 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Deck at Golden Nugget

John Mcnutt Band. 2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Sidestory. 7:30 – 11:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Glitter Bar at Resorts

Killer B’s. 6 – 9 p.m.

DJ Gary. 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Se7en Band. 5 – 8:30 p.m.

Cat 5. 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Yard at Bally’s

DJ Patrice McBride. 5 – 9 p.m.

DJ Sepper. 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Lost in Paris. 10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

↘Continued on 70

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Isn’t it Always. 9:30 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Big Country. 1 – 5 p.m.

Shot of Southern. 6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor City

Renault Winery

Kinger & Camille Open Mic. 12 – 4 p.m.

Steve Schurtz. 6 – 10 p.m.

72 n . Bremen Ave.

Galloway

Romanelli’s Garden Café

Kat Rivers. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

279 S. new York Rd.

Linwood

Fox Den at LCC

John Wood Band. 6 – 10 p.m.

500 Shore Rd.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Megan Knight Band. 6 – 10 p.m.

Cole Moore. 8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Smithville

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Blue Street Band. 7 – 10 p.m.

1 n new York Rd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Doug Jennings. 4 – 7 p.m.

Turtle Heads. 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Fitzpatrick’s

Glen eric. 5 – 8 p.m. 650 new Rd.

Mexiquila

Suburban Sensi. 3 – 7 p.m.

101 e . Maryland Ave.

The Point

Soul Seductions. 6 – 10 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater Marina

Danny eyer. 12 – 4 p.m.

Brass Pocket. 7 – 11 p.m.

2780 7th Ave.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

The Weeklings. 7:30 p.m.

217 e . Main St.

Sunday, June 9

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge

Joe Vlado. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Lis B. 6 – 9 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Dueling Pianos. 8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

3AM Tokyo Duo. 7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

The exceptions. 2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Glitter Bar at Resorts

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock night Anthem. 4 – 7 p.m.

Se7en Band. 8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Incognito. 1 – 5 p.m.

e Street Shuffle. 6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor City

Renault Winery

Knoxville. 12 – 4 p.m.

72 n . Bremen Ave.

Galloway

Romanelli’s Garden Café

evan emerle. 12 – 3 p.m.

279 S. new York Rd.

Margate

Bocca

Bob Starner. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Big Foot Band. 3:30 – 7:30 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Josie Kelly’s

Traditional Irish Session. 1 – 4 p.m. 908 Shore Rd.

Mexiquila

De Tierra. 3 – 7 p.m. 101 e . Maryland Ave.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater Marina

Tuesday, June 11

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Patty & Bugzy. 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Jumper. 7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Josie Kelly’s

DJ Special K. 5 – 9 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

The Point

Rob McMahon. 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Wednesday, June 12

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Michael Stevens. 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Glitter Bar at Resorts

DJ Gary

8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Gab Cinque Band 7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Margate Bocca

Bob Sterling & The Bocca Boys 7 – 10 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

DJ Chaz. 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Jim Mitchell and Repeat Offenders 2 – 8 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Monday, June 10

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Red. 7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Who Brought the Dog. 7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

The Point

Richie Angelucci. 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Open Mic night hosted by Blue eagle

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Josie Kelly’s

Jimmy Brogan

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

The Point

Danny Lynch Project 6 – 10 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Events subject to change.

20 summer date ideas for locals and visitors

By Julia Train

Summer is here! That means there’s a slew of new activities to enjoy at the shore, with no shortage of wonderful date night options.

Sometimes going to the same dinner spot every week with your significant other can get boring for both of you. Sometimes you need to spice date night up. However, it can get overwhelming during the search for options online.

Luckily for you, I’ve compiled a

list of date ideas with something for everybody, whether you’re a local or visiting, whether you like a quiet or more adventurous scene for date night. Here are 20 summer date night ideas at the Southern Jersey Shore.

1. Pack a picnic.

This can be a super cheap option, depending on how you go about it. Choose a beach or park (there’s a ton) and pack your blanket and lunch. either bring your food from home or buy it from a favorite restaurant. Pinterest has a ton of picnic inspiration!

2. Visit an amusement park.

FRIDAY - JUNE 7

Haley & Timmy 4pm-7pm

The Dianmics 8pm-12am

SATURDAY - JUNE 8

Doug Jennings 4pm-7pm

The Turtle Heads 8pm-12am

SUNDAY - JUNE 9

Bigfoot 3:30pm - 7:30pm

FRIDAY - JUNE 14

Brandon Ireland Band 8pm-12am

SATURDAY - JUNE 15

Pretty Cash Duo 5pm-8pm

Surrounded by Idiots Band 8am-12am

SUNDAY - JUNE 16

No Clue Trio 4pm-8pm

WEDNESDAY 8pm-12am

THURSDAY 9pm-1am

This one’s for the thrill-seekers. Wherever you’re located, there’s bound to be an amusement park pretty close – Morey’s Pier, Steel Pier, Playland’s Castaway Cove, etc. You’ll have a blast riding coasters together, and it’ll give you a reason to hold on to your date.

3. Walk the boardwalk.

We’re surrounded by boardwalks with tons of activities: food, drinks, shopping, escape rooms, mirror mazes, go-karts and more.

4. Play miniature golf.

If you don’t want to go to the boardwalk for mini golf, there are tons in each shore town that stand alone. This is fun for those couples who like to get competitive.

5. Go to a winery or brewery.

It’s the season to sit outside and drink at the winery. If that’s not your vibe, go to the brewery! There’s a plethora of options for both!

6. Visit a farmers market.

Another classic summer activity, but bring your significant other! This can be just for fun or to pick up some needed produce!

7. Have a craft night.

can be a stand-alone date or coupled with another idea.

12. Enjoy a concert.

There are several outdoor and free ones, which we share a list of weekly, so check that out!

13. Berry picking

Summer is the season for berries! Why go to the market to pick them up when you can turn it into a date?

14. Visit a fair.

You’ll see a ton of fairs pop up throughout the summer! enjoy a night of feeling like a kid again with rides, games and treats with your significant other.

15. Go out for breakfast or brunch instead of dinner.

Switch up the time you go out to eat! Bonus points if you dress a little nicer and the restaurant has outdoor seating.

16. Enjoy sunrise at the beach with coffee and donuts.

This one’s for the early birds. Grab some coffee and donuts and stroll the beach as the sun rises.

17 Try a new hobby together. Trying a new hobby together is a great way to bond! Peruse social media sites like Pinterest to discover ideas that sound interesting to you both.

18. Visit the Cape May Zoo. Another classic. Spend a day with the animals while learning about them!

There are a bunch of couple craft ideas on TikTok or Pinterest, like painting each other or making matching bracelets with beads that are the colors of each others’ eyes. If you live together, you can even make some DIY decor!

8. Get outdoorsy.

Try hiking, fishing, kayaking, camping, or tubing. We’re close to the Delaware water gap, for example. There are also local options like Birch Grove Park, the eHT n ature Reserve, and Lake Lenape.

9. Watch the sun go down at Sunset Beach.

Located in Cape May, it’s arguably one of the best spots to watch the sunset. It’s also super romantic to sit on a blanket and just talk while watching it.

10. Visit a museum.

Depending on where and when you go, this can be a fairly cheap (or free!) date.

11. Get a sweet treat.

You can’t go wrong with the classic date idea of getting ice cream. This

19. Spend a day at Cape Square Entertainment Complex.

A one-stop place for bowling, movies and food!

20. Go on a food tour.

If you’re a foodie, learn about the current food trends, history and culture in your area.

n ow that you’re feeling inspired, it’s time to pick your favorites and enjoy them! Try blending some ideas together for one date night or put your own spin on any on the list.

Did we miss anything that you think would be a great idea? Let us know at shorelocalnews@gmail.com!

The growing Brigantine Farmers Market

By Christina Martin

The next stop on my 2024 farmers market tour was the Brigantine Farmers Market. In the summer of 2013, the Brigantine Green Team held a test market as part of the Sustainable nJ program. In 2014, the farmers market took place in Haneman Park with about 25 vendors. The park and surrounding streets made it a wonderful venue. I was a guest chef along with other area chefs who did cooking demos in the park during the market. In 2020, the market was moved to the Brigantine Community School parking lot to control the number of people and adhere to CDC guidelines. The market grew when it was moved as the school lot could hold many more vendors. It is now up to 60 full-time vendors and 25 pop-ups. There are approximately 22

volunteers that help with setup and breakdown.

A committee of seven does all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making farmers markets successful. I’m happy to share that it is my first year on the Brigantine farmers market committee. I have seen firsthand that it’s not as simple as vendors showing up, popping up a tent and selling their goods. There are logistics that go into the planning, application process, and meetings that take place. It is no small feat. These

women volunteers do it because they love their town.

One committee member told me, “When I visit somewhere I always seek out farmers markets and when the Green Team started the market I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of. I love seeing the shoppers, vendors and the community interacting. It is exhilarating. The fact that the community has embraced it has allowed the farmer’s market to grow.”

n ectar Flow Farm and Apiary is located in Bridgeton. They offer CSA (community-supported agriculture) which is a subscription box of vegetables with add-on subscriptions of mushrooms and honey. They are a farm that does not use pesticides. This week the zucchini was coming into season and looked beautiful. On my visit, I selected some cucumbers since I decided I would share my quick pickle recipe in this week’s article. www. n ectarFlowFarm.com

One of my favorite vendors (it’s not because she named one of her pottery bowls after me: the Chef Christina bowl) is Zina Brown. She is an amazing artist who owns Pottery Therapy. You can see her work at many local markets and events but

on Saturdays, you will find her at the Brigantine Farmers Market along with her supportive husband. Her platters and bowls elevate your dining table. I also have purchased soup bowls that are wonderful for smoothie bowls or morning cereal. Other favorites are the lovely vases and jewelry dishes that she makes. Visit her Facebook page to see more events she will be attending.

The next stop is Sprout and Thicket Flower Farm, a flower farm located in Galloway Township. If you cannot

make it to the farmers market, they have a pink shed on the property where you can pick out a bouquet or your weekly flower subscription. At the farmers market, owner Katie brings gorgeous flowers that are perfect for any table. Come early, she sells out quickly! Check their Facebook for shed hours. For more information, visit their website: www. sproutandthicketflowerfarm.com.

On the Saturday I visited, I met Chelsea Fleming, the owner of Seatox Lemonade and elixirs. She has been a market vendor since its inception. The lemonade is made with freshly squeezed lemons and organic sugar. If you prefer, they also offer agave. It’s refreshing and delicious. It was wonderful to sip as I shopped at the market. Fleming also sells lavender syrup with which you can make many recipes. The hot food trend now is lavender coffee, so brew up a cup of Joe and add some Seatox lavender syrup. She is also a mom and yoga instructor.

Two more vendors debuted at the market this year, Beach Waffle and Let’s Get Bananas. Both are first-time vendors and women-owned businesses from Brigantine and are excited to share their products with the community. Let’s Get Bananas has vegan options with toppings such as nuts and coconut. Frozen bananas are dipped in chocolate or yogurt. Beach Waffles makes homemade waffles right at the market with toppings of caramel and chocolate sauce. I heard that nutella could be a future option. Their energy of being new vendors was contagious and encouraged those thinking of starting their own business.

Brigantine Canning Factory is also a Brigantine-based, woman-owned business. Christy Feehan started her company in 2017, but the pandemic set her back. now she is back at the market and working on more recipes. This week, Feehan featured Shipwreck mustard in which she uses Little Water Distillery product in the recipe. Little Water Distillery is locally made in Atlantic City.

Salty Sea Monkey, Kelly and Craig Photography, Limone Textiles, One of One tie dye apparel, and Seawall Sweets are all Brigantine-based, women-owned vendors you will see at the market this season.

Soul empanadas is a weekly vendor and another fan favorite. The sub shop of empanadas includes flavors like cheesesteak, chicken parm, and brisket. They offer a vegetarian/ vegan-friendly version filled with Impossible meat, Violife cheese, and sometimes eggplant parm. I cannot wait to try the eggplant!

The Brigantine farmers market is not complete without DJ Jack

Fahey, who plays the tunes that get people dancing as they are strolling and shopping. It really is a community event each weekend.

Market Tip of the Week: The Peplowski Fruit Farm owner shared with me that peaches are looking good, and it’s possible to see peaches available next Saturday. Peach season normally begins the first weeks of June, depending on the weather. Look for a peach recipe coming soon.

Visit the Brigantine Farmers Market Saturdays from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. through Aug. 31 in the Brigantine Community School Parking Lot at 301 e evans Blvd. Service dogs only. Fall market days are Sept. 28 and nov. 23.

Quick Pickle Recipe

Choose your own vegetables: For this recipe, I used cucumbers, radishes and turnips, which are all in season locally and available right now at farmers markets. use the vegetables you enjoy and that look fresh at the market.

Pickle juice ingredients:

For 1 quart of pickling liquid:

● 3 cups water

● 1 cup vinegar (I use apple cider vinegar)

● 3 tablespoons sugar (I use organic sugar)

● 1 tablespoon sea salt Procedure:

Bring all ingredients to a boil. For harder vegetables, submerge in hot liquid. For softer vegetables, allow the liquid to cool first before adding the veggies. Tightly seal and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Chef Christina Martin is a dedicated chef educator, passionate advocate for healthy eating, and mother. Christina’s expertise has been spotlighted in Independent Restaurateur Magazine and she has been awarded 2024 Chef Educator of the Year from the Professional Chef Association of South Jersey.

FACIAL SKIN RESURFACING & TIGHTENING COOLSCULPT ELITE, EMSCULPT NEO & EMSCULPT ULTHERAPY, COOLPEEL CO2 LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

EMSELLA - URINARY INCONTINENCE

FACIAL VEINS & PIGMENTATION

HYDRAFACIAL, MICRONEEDLING & RADIOFREQUENCY

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

DERMAL PLANNING & VI SKIN PEELS

MEDICAL SERVICES

PHYSICIAN DIRECTED WEIGHT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM - Featuring Industry Leading InBody Full Body Composition Analysis, FDA Approved Medical Therapies including GLP-1 Medication, SEMAGLUTIDE - WEGOVY / OZEMPIC, and other evidence-based treatments, ADIPEX. LOOSE FAT AND IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH NOW!

BIO IDENTICAL HORMONE THERAPY

BIOTE CERTIFIED PHYSICIAN DIRECTED HORMONAL TREATMENT PROGRAM - Designed to help MEN & WOMEN Suffering from the Aging Process - LOW TESTOSTERONE, PERI MENOPAUSE, MENOPAUSE, THYROID DYSFUNCTION, & NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES.

SEXUAL WELLNESS FOR MEN & WOMEN

GOOD SEX = HAPPY & LONGER LIFE - Learn how MEN & WOMEN can reclaim the passion, improve relationships and become healthier featuring GAINSWAVE and Regenerative Therapies, P/O-Shot.

Dr. Hernberg, a Board-Certified Physician Specializes in Helping Individuals Optimize their Health, and Appearance with Evidence Proven Medical Therapies. Serving South Jersey for Over 20 Years.

TOMORROW’S WELLNESS CENTER 1750 Zion Road, Suite 204, Northfield, NJ 609-407-1119 TomorrowsWellnessCenter.com

Journey Hospice provides End Stage Cardiac Care

Hospice is considered for those who have decided to shift the focus of their care from curative treatments to palliative care, which aims to improve the quality of life and manage symptoms.

While hospice is commonly associated with cancer patients, services are also available for individuals with other life-limiting conditions such as heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Alzheimer's disease, and others.

For Americans living with heart failure, hospice can be a welcome option when the disease has progressed to its end stage.

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to support the body’s need for blood and oxygen. Over time, this will cause organs to receive less blood and lose proper function. There are a several treatments to combat congestive heart failure, but when these options start to not be effective, hospice should be considered.

At Journey Hospice, staff provide support to individuals and their loved

ones during an advanced illness, ensuring that every person’s journey of life is allowed to end with dignity, compassion, and comfort.

“Heart failure patients can have an array of symptoms. These symptoms can include, pain, breathlessness, depression, fear, and insomnia,” explains Francine Turley, Director of n ursing, Journey Hospice. “In most patients the fear of breathlessness causes greater anxiety, leading to psychological pain versus physical pain. Therefore, we would treat this pain differently, using anti-anxiety medications rather than pain medications. Hospice can manage their needs with symptoms and physical limitations, as well as emotional needs.”

All hospice patients receive a care team, which includes registered nurses, certified home health aides, chap -

lains and social workers as well as massage therapists and volunteers. Turley added that it is important to provide individual care based on the needs and wants of the patients. “ each plan of care is personally tailored and is designed to nurture the individual based on their needs.”

She added that what makes the hospice unique is twofold. “Our staff

EAR NOSE & THROAT DOCTOR

has been with us for a long time, which says something about our program. In addition, our organization offers a palliative care program, available when the person is not ready, or currently doesn’t qualify, for hospice. This program is overseen by our nurse practitioners, who can make a smooth transition into hospice when the individual is ready.”

Journey Hospice is ACHC accredited, is recognized as a We Honor Veterans Hospice Partner Level Three, and an Annual CVAC’s Business of the Year in 2023.

Our specialized hospice care team is available to assist in making the right choices for each individual’s personal journey. Journey Hospice is located at 6712 Washington Avenue Suite 302, egg Harbor Township, nJ 08234. For more information, call 609-380-4302.

Making fitness a lifestyle change

Empowering Women

By Rachel Guevara

Starting a fitness journey isn’t just about joining a gym or following a trendy workout plan; it’s about making a lifestyle change for long-term health and well-being. As the owner of a women-only fitness facility in northfield, with over 13 years in the industry, I’ve seen many women work hard to make fitness a regular part of their lives. I understand the challenges and victories involved in this journey.

Here are some key steps to help you move from occasional workouts to a steady fitness routine, ensuring you start and stick with your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Start Small, Think Long-Term: The first step in making fitness a lifestyle change is to take it slow. Many people jump into intense workouts or strict diets and quickly burn out,

going back to old habits. Instead, I suggest starting with small goals, like taking a daily walk or committing to one fitness class a week. By setting achievable milestones, you can build confidence and momentum, laying the groundwork for lasting change.

Find Your Passion:

Fitness should be fun, not a chore. explore different activities until you find something you love. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, or weightlifting, the key is to find activities that you enjoy and fit into your life. When exercise is enjoyable, it’s easier to stick with it and achieve long-term success.

Prioritize Consistency Over Intensity: Consistency is key to a successful fitness journey. Focus on being regular with your workouts, even if they are shorter or less intense. Regular effort, no matter how small, leads to better results than occasional intense workouts. By establishing a routine, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts, leading to sustainable progress.

Cultivate a Supportive Environment: Being around like-minded people can boost motivation and accountability. Join a fitness class, find a workout buddy, or connect with online groups and social media communities. A support system can encourage you during tough times and celebrate your victories.

Stay Resilient: Setbacks are a natural part of the fitness journey. Whether it’s due to lack of time, motivation, or unexpected obstacles, it’s important to approach setbacks with resilience and compassion. See setbacks as learning opportunities, not permanent barriers. By viewing them as temporary detours, you can

stay focused on your long-term goals and push through adversity. In conclusion, making fitness a lifestyle change requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to embrace gradual progress. By starting small, finding your passions, prioritizing consistency, cultivating a supportive environment, and overcoming obstacles. With resilience, you can embark on a journey towards lasting health and wellness. Let’s empower each other to embrace the transformative power of fitness and live our best lives.

Rachel Guevara is the owner of Lift & Glitz Training Studio in Northfield, NJ. With 13 years of experience in the fitness industry, Rachel holds certifications in Personal & Group Fitness through ISSA and is a Zumba Fitness Instructor. A proud single mother of two, Rachel balances her professional and personal life with grace and determination. She earned her BA in Communications from Stockton University and resides in Northfield.

Things to know about asthma and summer heat

Nearly 25 million people of all ages in the u nited States are living with asthma, a lifelong chronic disease that makes it harder to move air in and out of the lungs.

Here’s what the American Lung Association wants everyone to know during summer, when extreme heat can make asthma harder to manage.

1. New challenges are emerging. Beyond traditional asthma triggers like respiratory infections, secondhand smoke and pets, new challenges are emerging. The effects of climate change include extreme heat, poor air quality, increased allergens, extreme weather events, and more frequent and intense wildfires, all of which are making asthma more difficult to manage.

e xcessive heat and humidity increase the risk of asthma exacerbations, asthma-related hospitalization and asthma-related death, especially for children and women. Patients should limit time outdoors during heat waves, seek access to air conditioning and take steps to improve indoor air quality, as humidity allows

dust mites and mold to thrive.

2. City dwellers are particularly vulnerable.

Two-thirds of the average u.S. city is made up of roads, parking spaces, sidewalks and roofs. Since these surfaces are typically dark and nonporous, they contribute to flooding, increased air pollution, poor health and what is known as “urban heat,” a phenomenon in which cities experience warmer temperatures than surrounding areas. u rban heat, combined with pollutants from power plants, motor vehicles and other pollution sources, creates ozone pollution, also known as smog. Those with asthma can experience symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing from both ground-level ozone and particle pollution, as well as from the impacts of extreme weather and

airborne allergens.

Sadly, these issues disproportionally impact certain communities. Due to a history of discriminatory practices like systematic denial of mortgages, insurance loans, and other financial services on the basis of race and ethnicity, Black and Indigenous people, and other people of color, are more likely to be living in areas impacted by urban heat and poor air quality.

3. Flooding can harm lung health.

Increased severe storms due to climate change results in more flooding, which can harm lung health. Chemicals, sewage, oil, gas and other dangerous substances found in floodwaters can pose health risks, and mold, associated with asthma attacks, can grow anywhere there is water or dampness.

4. Advocacy efforts are underway.

The Smart Surfaces Coalition is made up of 40 national and international organizations committed to making Smart Surfaces the global urban design standard. Smart Surfaces encompass a suite of cutting-edge technologies, including reflective (cool) roofs and pavements, green roofs, trees, solar panels and rain gardens. Designed to mitigate urban heat, enhance air quality and improve health, these transformative urban features can cool cities by 5 degrees Fahrenheit, reduce flooding, provide economic benefits and potentially advance environmental justice.

The American Lung Association, an active member of the Smart Sur-

faces Coalition, encourages cities to take these actions:

● Install light-colored roads, parking lots and driveways to reflect sunlight and reduce heat.

● Install solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity and provide shade for roofs.

● Plant trees to increase shade.

● Select porous surfaces to collect polluted stormwater, soak it into the ground, and filter out pollution.

Other strategies to reduce urban heat, air pollution and ozone levels include using public transportation carpooling, increasing green spaces and installing cooling centers in extreme conditions.

5. Resources are available. educational programming can help people better manage the disease in summer and year-round. Patients can check out the self-management education programs, information and tools available at Lung.org/asthma or call the American Lung Association’s Lung Helpline at 1-800-Lun G uSA.

Living with an illness, or being the caretaker to someone who is, can take a physical and emotional toll. Patients can get support and knowledge, and connect with others by joining the Lung Association’s Patient & Caregiver n etwork.

For the 24.8 million Americans living with asthma, extreme summer temperatures and emerging environmental threats can make life more difficult. Fortunately, new educational resources and expanded programming can help patients navigate new and old challenges alike.

FG Trade / iStock via Getty Images

Weight loss clinic offers 'aesthetics' services

Center open in Somers Point

New Jersey Trim Clinic is a leading provider of innovative weight loss and aesthetics services, specializing in FDA-approved doctor-guided medical weight loss treatments.

Situated at 501 Bay Ave., Suite 201 in Somers Point, n ew Jersey Trim Clinic is committed to aiding individuals in achieving their health and wellness aspirations with FDA-approved weight loss treatments and professional advice.

The focus at n ew Jersey Trim Clinic, lies on FDA-approved, doctor guided, medical weight loss treatments. Through the use of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, patients have witnessed significant progress, attaining their weight loss goals without resorting to stringent diets or demanding exercise regimens. With our once-weekly subcutaneous weight loss injections, individuals can expect tangible results within a short timeframe, typically experiencing a reduction of 15-20% in body weight. n otably, this medication has gained recognition from Oprah Winfrey, who acknowledged its contribution to her weight loss journey.

"We are excited to introduce n ew Jersey Trim Clinic to the community, providing a comprehensive range of weight loss and aesthetics services

tailored to prioritize the well-being of our patients," stated Dr. Debra Olaru, nurse practitioner at new Jersey Trim Clinic. "Our objective is to deliver personalized and effective treatments that yield real results, enabling individuals to achieve their weight loss and aesthetic objectives with confidence."

In addition to an advanced weight loss program, n ew Jersey Trim Clinic offers an array of aesthetics services designed to enhance natural beauty and overall well-being. From Botox and dermal fillers to testosterone and hormone replacement therapy, as well as B12 injections, our team of seasoned professionals is dedicated to delivering exceptional services that enhance our patients' confidence and vitality.

"Our aesthetics services are designed to complement our weight loss program, helping individuals achieve a holistic approach to health and wellness," Dr. Olaru added. "We believe that looking and feeling your best go hand in hand, and our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results that exceed our patient’s expectations.”

To learn more about n ew Jersey Trim Clinic or to schedule a consultation for weight loss or aesthetics services, individuals can call 609-382-Trim or visit nJTrimClinic.com.

How Compounding Pharmacies Can Help Patients Get Needed Care

Most consumers know how a traditional pharmacy works. Far fewer are aware of an alternative option: a compounding pharmacy. Here’s everything you need to know about these specialized healthcare facilities, and how they have the potential to improve your wellness.

What is a compounding pharmacy? A compounding pharmacy employs the art and science of creating personalized medications based on a patient’s specific requirements, ensuring an individualized approach to healthcare.

Why is this important? Compounded medications are crafted to address individual requirements, such as allergies to certain ingredients, dosage adjustments, or the need for alternative forms of medication (for example, needing a liquid instead of a pill form). In short, compounded medications deliver therapy required for individuals to live healthier, happier lives in a form that can optimize their care. These medications can also

play a vital role in addressing challenges related to FDA-approved prescription medication shortages.

How common are compound pharmacies? Compounding pharmacies make up 2% of the current pharmaceutical market, but that figure is growing as more patients and providers grasp the benefits that compounded medicines provide.

How does this change the role of the pharmacist? Pharmacists have always been an important part of patients’ care teams, dispensing medications and offering advice on side effects and dosing. At a compounding pharmacy, that role also includes producing customized prescription drugs for patients, most often from raw ingredients.

Are there any safety issues to be aware of? Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, making it important for patients to stick to trustworthy pharmacies that use safe compounding practices. Be sure your pharmacy has Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) accreditation. (StatePoint)

Ask your agent questions about the finance process

Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

While real estate agents have a great deal of practical experience to offer in the finance realm, they are not mortgage lenders. That means that they are not able to give you specific advice about which mortgage to choose or how you should finance your home purchase.

However, real estate agents are great connectors and they can put you in touch with a number of professionals who can help you through the process. In the meantime, they can help you to better understand and evaluate your options and come up with decisions along the way that work for you and your family.

Since the financing of a home pur-

chase is generally the most complex element of the transaction, it is important that you discuss your finances and financial needs with your real estate agent upfront. What follows are a few questions you might ask your real estate professional along with some insight into their possible answers.

Do You Have Any Lender Referrals for Me?

Your real estate agent or broker probably knows practically everybody in your market, including a variety of excellent lenders and mortgage brokers. He or she will be able to refer you to several. You will probably want to compare a few different lenders in order to get a sense of what your options are and what products that they offer.

How Should I Choose the Right Lender?

Your personal financial situation will go a long way in determining which lender is right for you. There are lenders who specialize in working with first-time home buyers, buyers with poor credit, self-employed buyers, and more. Talk with your agent about your specific needs, and find out which lender is best able to help you.

How Early Should I Start Preparing for the Mortgage Process?

The answer will probably be "yesterday" since it is never too early to start thinking ahead your mortgage application and approval process. You will almost certainly want to check your credit reports, pay down debt, and improve your credit score as needed. However, you will not want to actually apply months ahead of time since rates will change and different options will become available.

House I Can Afford?

At this point, you will probably want to choose a lender and undergo a pre-qualification or pre-approval process, depending on how ready you are to begin your home search in earnest. What is the difference?

- Pre-qualification is based on information you provide to the lender and can give you a quick idea of your home search budget.

- Pre-approval is more detailed and involves submitting your application and documentation to your lender in order to begin the underwriting process. This is an important step as you will want to submit your pre-approval letter with your offer on a home.

What Should I Be Careful About During Underwriting?

You will want to make sure that your financial history is as clean as possible, so avoid having insufficient funds in your checking account and do not open new credit accounts. If you are contemplating any major changes to your job or financial picture, talk to your real estate agent first and find out whether they could affect your purchase.

What if I Need to Sell a House Then Buy?

If you don't have enough for the down payment without the sale, your real estate agent can connect you with a lender who specializes in loans that are designed for exactly this eventuality. Alternatively, he or she may be able to help you navigate a 1031 Tax e xchange or other alternative option. Be sure you talk with your agent about the funds you will require as you price your current home, and what your true bottom line will be.

As you continue through the process you may want to discuss a use and occupancy or other options to help your timelines sync up and smooth the transition between homes. Perhaps both properties will go to closing back to back on the same day.

Can I Get Help With Closing Costs?

If you know that you will need help with closing costs, talk to your real

estate agent about how you can structure your offer in order to ask for the seller to help at closing. This will often involve offering a higher sales price to make up some or all of the difference.

What About Down Payment Assistance?

Your real estate agent should have a good understanding of ways to obtain assistance. These may be specific to a particular neighborhood, city, county, or the state or governmental agency. They may also be part of a builder's offer, or they may be based on your place or type of employment, financial history, income, or other factors.

Can You

Explain

Contingencies Related to the Finance Process?

When you make an offer on a home, your real estate agent will discuss with you the various contingencies that you can add into the contract of sale agreement with your offer, including a financing contingency and an appraisal contingency. There will be various options available so it is important to ask your agent how these will affect both the strength of your offer getting accepted by the seller, and making sure of your own protection during the process.

Are There Alternatives to a Traditional Mortgage Loan?

If you are looking for an alternative financing option like seller financing, or a 1031 Tax exchange scenario, be sure to discuss this with your real estate professional early on in the process. This will allow him or her to connect with colleagues and investors in your area to help you find the property that fits your needs and your pocketbook.

Remember, your real estate agent or broker has a fiduciary duty to protect your financial information. Any information that you share about your finances or personal circumstances will be held in strict confidence. Ask your agent about their perspective and insight that they are able to provide to you so you can better understand the process and make more informed decisions.

With hugs love and warm regards, For real estate information and advice, contact elisa Jo eagan, the "Real estate Godmother," at 609-703-0432. Learn more at www.therealestategodmother.com.

For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan "The Real Estate Godmother" (609)703-0432 and Remember..."There's No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!"

6,

Family Favorites with a Side of Memories

Life is What Happens

By Lisa Zaslow Segelman

Iwrite this column so I’m obviously a foodie. I wasn’t always called that, but I’ve been interested in cooking and baking

since I was a kid. I would hunt and gather recipes, peruse cookbooks, cook ethnic favorites with Mom and

Grandmom in tow, and ask my mom to join me in making odd things like fondant; the icing used to decorate or sculpt cakes. We made the icing but never got to the cake.

While as a cook I have the utmost respect for food allergies and people’s likes and dislikes, especially when they’re my guests, no one in my family has food allergies, and no one in my family is a picky eater. The five of us like quality, quantity, interesting foods and enjoy trying new dishes. So imagine my surprise when my daughter said she was bringing her new boyfriend, whom I’d only met once, to our home in Ventnor for the first time. My initial question for any guest, but especially a new boyfriend is always, “what should I make?”

“Oh well, he’s a picky eater,” said my 28-year-old daughter, Talia, as nonchalantly as if she was telling me that his favorite color was blue.

“Picky eater?” I asked. These two words were as far from music to my ears as anything could be. My heart sank as visions of plain, maybe grilled chicken danced in my head.

What doesn’t he eat?” I asked, clearly disappointed.

“Oh, he doesn’t eat any fish like his father and grandfather before him, no Randalls Seafood, no mushrooms,

no vinegary dressings.” So my Balsamic Vinaigrette is not happening nor is my Mushroom-Swiss Spinach Frittata.

My dating daughters talk a lot about “red flags” and “green flags” when it comes to the qualities of the guys in their life. This daughter seemed so enamored with said new boyfriend that his anti-seafood, anti-mushroom outlook on life was something that she not only seemed willing to tolerate, but totally embrace. The mom – me – not so much.

“But he likes Chicken Parm,” she said, Chicken Parm being the affectionate name for Chicken Parmigiana.

I immediately brightened. “Well, that’s not so bad,” I thought. It’s basic but not plain. I knew about “Marry Me Chicken,” a TikTok chicken dish with a creamy tomato sauce that’s so good, it’s said to make someone want to marry you. That was way in the future. For now we had to get through dinner no. 1. I looked over my recipe and made

↘Continued on 84

some changes to create Boyfriend Chicken Parm for picky eaters. The first thing I did was eliminate the teaspoon of red-hot pepper flakes.

In thinking about this dish and I realized that other picky eaters in my life also like chicken parm. They consider it more exotic than plain grilled chicken. And they’re quite vocal about how great it can be.

“I like tender juicy, crisp chicken with marinara sauce,” says my college roommate’s husband, Barry Getzoff. ”Mozzarella cheese is key. The red sauce and white cheese is appealing to the eye.” Spoken like a real food critic.

“I don’t eat toppings or condiments,” says Mike Peoples, a physical therapist at n ovaCare, Ventnor, “it overwhelms my palate. I like chicken parm’s simple ingredients – the marinara sauce, chicken and cheese come together in a way that’s hard to beat. “It’s a home run.”

For chicken parm out, Mike likes Michelli’s in Somers Point and Angeline’s at the Borgata.

Chicken Parm is so popular among picky and non-picky eaters, there’s a Facebook group called Jersey Chicken Parm. It has 27,000 members who post the best places in Jersey, and the tri-state area, to enjoy the dish and why, in their humble yet dedicat-

ed opinions.

So how did the Boyfriend Chicken Parm work out last Saturday night? I would say it went very well. He loved it. The boyfriend even asked for the recipe!

Boyfriend chicken parm

Serves 12

(There’s enough for the family, the boyfriend, and whoever else wants to meet him).

From Scratch Marinara Sauce

(you can use jarred sauce, but this makes a real difference in the outcome)

● 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

● 2 medium onions, chopped

● 4 cloves garlic, chopped

● 2 stalks celery, chopped

● 2 medium carrots, chopped

● 2 tsp sea salt

● freshly ground black pepper

● 3 (32-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano Tomatoes

● 1 tsp dried oregano

● 10 fresh basil leaves (try growing some in your garden/yard)

● 4 dried large bay leaves

● 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, optional Method:

1. In a large pot with lid, heat oil over medium-low heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until soft and

translucent, about 5 minutes. Add celery and carrots, salt, and pepper. Sauté until all the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

2. Add tomatoes, Italian seasoning, basil, and bay leaves and simmer covered on low heat for one hour or until thick. Remove bay leaves and check for seasoning. If sauce still

tastes acidic, add unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, tasting between additions, to round out the flavors.

3. Add half the tomato sauce into the bowl of a food processor or blender. Process until smooth. Continue with remaining tomato sauce.

4. If not using all the sauce, allow it to cool completely and freeze in

smaller containers for a quick meal at another time.

Sauce will freeze up to 6 months

For the Chicken: Ingredients:

● 2 cups panko, plain, or seasoned breadcrumbs, your choice

● 2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

● 2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (can also use Pecorino-Romano, I like Locatelli), divided

● 2 cup all-purpose flour

● 4 large eggs

● 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

● 12 skinless, boneless chicken cutlets

● Kosher salt

● Freshly ground black pepper

● 2 cup canola oil for frying

● Chopped basil leaves for serving Method:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spread some olive oil lightly in baking pan or two pans, depending on size.

2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. u se a meat mallet to pound the chicken

on a cutting board or solid surface. Pound to an even ½ inch thickness.

3. Create a dredging station made up of three plates or wide bowls: 1) the 4 beaten eggs 2) the 1½ cups of flour 3) the 2 cups of breadcrumbs, plus 1 cup Parmesan. Add the garlic powder if desired. (Replenish these three plates of ingredients as needed once you start dredging and frying).

4. Season chicken breasts well with salt and pepper, and then dredge in flour, set aside.

5. Dip a flour-coated chicken breast in beaten eggs. Transfer breast to the bread crumb mixture, pressing crumbs into both sides. Repeat for each breast. Let chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes.

6. Heat ½-inch olive oil in a large

skillet on medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches, in the hot oil until golden, about 4 minutes per side. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven. Transfer browned cutlets to a plate temporarily.

7. Add a scant layer of sauce to the bottom of the baking pan so the cutlets stay crisp. e xtra sauce can be served on the side. Transfer chicken to the baking dish. Top each breast with 2 tablespoons tomato sauce. Layer each chicken breast with equal amounts of mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan over top.

8. Make sure the oven is completely preheated. Bake until cheese is browned, bubbly and chicken breasts are no longer pink in the center, 15 to 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F. Top each cutlet with fresh basil.

Serve with cooked pasta and a vegetable such as sautéed broccoli or broccoli rabe.

Lisa is an advertising copywriter (think ‘Madmen’ without the men), journalist and columnist. Claim to fame: Lou’s waitress for four teenage summers. For column comments, story ideas, or to get on her “quote list” for future columns: redshoeslzs@ gmail.com

Creating useful multigenerational wealth

By Eric Reich

It is not uncommon for clients to come in who have assets that will clearly exceed their usefulness to them during their remaining lifetime. Sometimes, there is a fear of just handing over a large amount of assets to the next few generations that did little to nothing to earn that money. It isn’t a secret that sometimes money inherited doesn’t hold the same meaning or isn’t treated with the same level of responsibility as money that you have had to go out and earn. While there are several ways to protect that money from the potential of being squandered away, this week, I want to focus on one particular strategy that seems to resonate with clients due to its usefulness. We all want the money that we leave behind to make a real impact on the lives of our heirs. I believe that one of the best ways to ensure your heirs, even those for generations

to come, put the money to good use is to “superfund” 529 college savings plans.

First, what is a 529 college savings plan? A 529 college savings plan (the IRS code that created them) allows money to be invested for the purpose of saving for college, technical school, and with a few restrictions, even private primary and high school. The best part is that funds withdrawn from these accounts can be completely tax-free when used for qualified expenses, things like tuition, room/board, books, computers, etc. This includes the growth of the principal, interest, and dividends. All can be tax-free when used correctly. Recent laws have made a 529 plan even better now that unused 529 funds under the right circumstances can even be rolled over to a Roth IRA and still remain tax-free. If this is starting to sound really appealing, just wait, it gets so much better. A 529 college savings plan can be “superfunded”, and the excess can also be used to fund college, trade school, and private school, for generations to come. Why is this so important? College expenses are assumed to average $118,000 for a child born today who attends a public in-state school. If you’re considering a private school

that number is estimated to jump to a staggering $625,000 assuming costs continue to increase at the current 5% annual rate. It sounds unbelievable, right? Well, that’s been the historical average for 20+ years now.

The normal maximum allowable amount that you can put into a 529 plan in any given year is currently $18,000 per person in 2024. A married couple can double that amount to $36,000 per year per beneficiary. Superfunding comes into play due to a special rule that allows you (and your spouse) to make 5 years’ worth of gifts in a single year! That equates to $180,000 in gifts in a single year, and better yet, for a newborn beneficiary, that money now has potentially 18+ years to grow while invested! The catch, however, is that you can’t make any more gifts for the next 5 years. After 5 years from the date of the original gift, you can make another 5 years’ worth of gifts at the then allowable annual gift limit times five. Many 529 plans limit the overall amount you can contribute to a plan, so you’ll want to check with both your 529 plan provider as well as your CPA.

If your beneficiary receives a scholarship, attends a u.S. Military Academy, dies, or becomes disabled, funds can be withdrawn with only the earnings being taxable. If the beneficiary doesn’t use all of the funds inside a superfunded account, it can be rolled up to the limit to a Roth IRA or named to a new beneficiary, both of which may be tax-free! even better still, that money is out of your estate for asset and estate tax protection, but you still get to control it.

I have seen multimillion-dollar 529 plans that could potentially fund education expenses for decades to

come. Superfunding 529 plans allows for a potential measure of control of the way the future assets are spent. It also provides a meaningful use of the inherited assets and could provide potential tax and asset protection for you. It’s easy to see why this strategy may make sense for clients who won’t likely ever need the extra money that they can contribute to this type of plan.

Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FI n RA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.

Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations.

Meet the breed: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

By Heidi Clayton

One of my favorite dogs to work with and quite frankly to watch walk from behind (Corgi people will understand that!) is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. While Queen elizabeth is the most famous of all Pembroke breeders and owners, these little dogs have been around and popular since about 1100 A.D. If you are looking for a fun little dog to bring into the family that is down with just about anything, the Pembroke is your dog.

There are two very distinct breeds of Corgis, the Pembroke and the Cardigan. What distinguishes the two apart is the tail. Pembrokes are born with what appears to be a docked short tail, while the Cardigan has a much longer tail.

The Pembroke can be traced back to the year 1107 A.D. when england’s Henry the First brought a group of

weavers to the Pembrokeshire area of Wales from Belgium. These weavers brought their short-legged little farm dogs with them that were used to herd the cows into the barn for milking and to kill vermin. They also made excellent little guard dogs. The all-around farm dog quickly became popular among the British.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi became an officially recognized breed in england in roughly the 1800s. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America was formed and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1936.

Queen elizabeth’s lifelong love affair with the Pembroke began in 1933 when Thelma Gray of the famed Rozavel Kennels gave the then Duke of York and his family a male Pembroke named Dookie. In 1944, the then Duke of York gifted Princess elizabeth her very own Pembroke whose registered name was Hickathrift Pippa, who became known as Susan. Queen elizabeth ran a secretive but successful breeding program of Corgis where those involved in providing the studs would not betray the Queen’s confidence and disclose their involvement. The Queen had 14 generations of Pembrokes down from Susan. The last one, Willow, who died in 2018 was said to be particularly sad

for the Queen who decided she did not want young dogs in her aging years to leave behind and ended her breeding program.

The Pembroke is a long, low, boxy-looking dog that stands between 10 to 12 inches and weighs about 25-27 pounds. They have a double coat that is weather-resistant. The undercoat is shorter than the outer. The only acceptable colors that occur in the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are red, fawn, sable, or black and tan with or without white markings. Pembrokes are also known for their adorable butts. Google Corgi butts, and you will see some of the cutest dog butts known to man.

Lately, there are those that are looking to capitalize from this and are breeding “rare” Corgis that come in such fad colors of blue merle or brindle. These dogs are marketed as

the Queen’s Corgis or for their cute butts. The Pembroke club has released a statement based on science that the colors blue merle and brindle do not occur genetically in the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. So if you come upon one of these dogs, it is not a purebred Pembroke. The AKC does not accept registration of such colors.

Because they were bred to herd farm animals, the Pembroke will need some training. A good Pembroke will have a bold but rather kind temperament. normally, they train easily. They are known for excelling at agility and obedience. Overall, they are just great dogs with darn cute little butts!

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https:// fouronthefloordogtraining.net

Shore Local Trivia

Test Your Local Knowledge

1. The Absecon Lighthouse can be climbed here:

a) Absecon

b) Atlantic City

c) Brigantine

d) Cape May

2. The Tuckahoe Inn can be found here:

a) Marmora

b) Tuckahoe

c) Tuckerton

d) Beesleys Point

3. This high school’s team name is The Mustangs:

a) Ocean City

b) egg Harbor Township

c) Mainland

d) Atlantic City

4. What casino has a second hotel tower, previously called The Water Club, now MGM Tower?

a) Borgata

b) Golden nugget

c) Bally’s

d) Tropicana

5. What is the name of Ocean City’s famous hermit crab?

a) Crabby Patty

b) Buster The Crab

c) Martin Z. Mollusk

d) Krusty

6. Where is the nearest rolling skating rink?

a) Somers Point

b) Absecon

c) Mays Landing

d) Pomona

7. The state park on the southern tip of Ocean City is:

a) Corson’s Inlet

b) Gardner’s Basin

c) Townsend’s Inlet

d) Forsythe Refuge

8. Tony Marts and Bayshores stood along the bay here:

a) Sea Isle

b) Ocean City

c) Margate

d) Somers Point

9. This eleven-time Major League Baseball All-Star is known as the Millville Meteor”?

a) Alex Rodriguez

b) Barry Bonds

c) Mike Trout

d) Mike Schmidt

10. What Monopoly property is not in Atlantic City?

a) Marven Gardens

b) Arctic Avenue

c) Pacific Avenue

d) Mediterranean Avenue

All Correct - Su R eLY LOCAL. You’ve got sand in your toes and pines needles by your feet.

8 or 9 correct - SOLID LOCAL. You know your way around.

6 or 7 correct - SeMI LOCAL. n ot born and raised, but not bad.

3 or 5 correct - ne WBI e . Take another exit. You should get around more.

0 to 2 correct - SHOOBI e –Welcome to South Jersey. The beach is that way.

SUDOKU

Solution on page 94

ACROSS

1. Fake deal

5. Dashboard acronym

8. Oxen connector

12. Guesstimate phrase (2 words)

13. Give a darn

14. exhibitionist

15. It's OTAn in French

16. Carbon monoxide lacks this

17. Geometry class prop

18. *Lou Reed: "She says, "Hey babe, take a walk on the ____ ____"

20. european "curtain"

21. Mustangs, e.g.

22. Campaign pro

23. Cause of wheezing

26. Men's Colonial headgear

30. Fib

31. *Bon Jovi: "Take my hand, we'll make it I swear. Woah, livin' on a ____"

34. The only thing to fear?

35. Small and round, eyes description

37. Future fish

38. Alabama civil rights site

39. Tangelo

40. Shape clay, e.g.

42. James Corden's network

43. Awaited deliverer

45. Same as lathees

47. 0 meridian acronym

48. World-weary

50. Prefix with legal

52. *Aerosmith: "Sing with me, sing for the year. Sing for the ____"

55. Siberian prison

56. Pakistani language

57. *Dionne Warwick: "I think I'm going out of my ____"

59. Rapidly

60. Cheese app

61. "Cogito, ____ sum"

62. Diamond's corner

63. european economic Community

64. Whiskey grain, pl.

DOWN

1. *Kansas: "Carry on, my wayward ____"

2. "Stick in one's ____"

3. Italian wine region

4. Dough

5. *The Buggles: "Video killed the ____"

6. Cattle controls

7. Bébé's mother

8. *elton John: "And it seems to me you lived ____ ____"

9. Capital of norway

10. Hiking sandals brand

11. Mess up

13. Show's other star

14. Rap sheet listing

19. negative house description

22. p in #5 Across

23. Michael Jackson's "Thriller", e.g.

24. Military blockade

25. Bluish greens

26. Banana leftover

27. ____'s, grape jelly brand

28. Many iambs

29. *Guns n' Roses: "Take me down to the paradise city where the ____"

32. Missouri capital tourist attraction

33. *ABBA: "Waterloo - knowing my fate is to be with ____"

36. *Queen: "You got mud on your face, you big ____"

38. Hiding place

40. Aptitude test acronym

41. Black Death

44. Picture

46. Restraint

48. Ballet rail

49. Playful

50. Immature butterfly

51. unfortunately, exclamation

52. Jiffy's grease

53. Spooky

54. uncontrollable anger

55. Loquacious person's gift

58. not don'ts

THEME: FINISH THE LYRICS

Make unique centerpieces from your own garden

By Tammy Thornton

Now that warmer weather has taken hold, our gardens are blooming their little hearts out. We’ve reached that sweet spot of warm days and cool nights. Sun-loving flowers are happily blooming, even those that don’t like extreme heat. Some of the plants in the latter group will go mostly dormant once the summer sun beats down on them. But for now, our flowers are living their best lives. How fitting that our gardens are full of blooms just as we also hit the peak of weddings, proms, and other events that call for flowers and centerpieces. Arranged flowers from the florist can be quite pricey. However, in a few easy steps, you can make your own centerpieces and arrangements from the garden, adding a personal touch and saving you money. When it comes to cut flowers, hydration and timing are everything.

Once you cut flowers, the clock starts ticking, and if you don’t give them a proper water source, most plants will begin to wilt. It’s a good idea to do a practice run days or weeks before your event to see how many days your cut flowers will remain looking fresh. Greenery can often fare a little better than the flowers themselves.

Of course, the easiest way to keep flowers fresh would be to use a vase or container that can hold water. You can cleverly hide a vase inside a larger container that fits your theme. But other times, your centerpiece requires the use of Oasis. This type of foam block can be soaked in water to help keep the stems of your flowers hydrated. Before cutting the flowers you want to use, water them well so that they start out happy and refreshed. Cut your stems at an angle and immediately plunge them into water to absorb as much as possible right away. You will want to have a bowl, pot, or other container to hold the Oasis so that you don’t have a soggy green mess on your hands. Recently, I found green, flat containers that came with the Oasis pre-glued in the bottom. Since I was using mainly flower heads with hardly

any stem, these shallow receptacles worked perfectly for my purposes. Before I started inserting flowers into the Oasis, I filled the containers with water. I gave them a few minutes, and the water was quickly absorbed into the Oasis. Then, I needed to add more water several times. So, when using Oasis in containers, make sure they are completely saturated. Also, I’m all about reusing and saving money, but once you use Oasis, it won’t work as well the next time. Holes created from the first use will keep your Oasis from being as effective. It can also retain bacteria from previous uses. You may have heard the rule of thumb “thriller, filler, spiller” when it comes to planting pots and urns

PROTECT VULNERABLE ADULTS

for your garden. The same idea works for centerpieces. Your main flower is the star of the show. Then you fill in with something airy and light, often with tiny flowers. Lastly, you have a spiller. You can use greenery or flowers as the spiller, and this will give some definition to your arrangement.

Recently, I made a centerpiece with different types of roses that I was fortunate enough to have blooming in my garden at just the right time. I stayed in the same color scheme but used large roses in shades of pink from different types of climbers. Then I filled in with smaller roses and finished off with buds. To this, I added stems of blooming catmint (which smells amazing, by the way). One of my boxwood bushes has very soft and flowing foliage. Stems of the boxwood served as my spiller. I also added some budding flowers from my privet hedge for the “filler”. using different types of plants and greenery can give your arrangement a polished look as long as you do not overdo it. Don’t underestimate the value of greenery. “Shop” in your own garden with an eye for your arrangement, and you may see things in a different light. Ferns, boxwood clippings, or

Top books with lace and flowers for your bookish guests.

the unique leaves of false indigo can complete your centerpiece. Stems with seed heads (for example, allium) can also add one-of-a-kind interest. For winter arrangements, use pine to set the tone.

Add a personal touch to your centerpieces. For a baby shower, add teddy bears or building blocks. For book lovers, place your arrangement atop some used books. Tap into the interests of the guest of honor or the theme of the party to make it special for them.

Some of the supplies you may need are floral tape, Oasis, your container, sharp pruners, and a large flat box to transport your centerpieces. Take pictures at each stage of your arrangement from different angles. You may notice something out of place that you hadn’t seen before. It’s also a good idea to walk away for a time. Once you get into the thick of things, it’s easy to lose your objectivity. Ask an honest friend for their thoughts along the way. A word of advice: because arrangements often need to be made the night before the event, it’s probably not a good idea to take on this task if you have many other duties for the event. This last-minute timetable can make an otherwise happy event stressful.

In the end, don’t lose sight of the occasion. Life’s happy times with family and friends are the moments to savor. Don’t let the pressure of perfectly planning the details of an event steal your joy. We all need to focus on those loved ones who make the good times worth celebrating.

Embarking on a Sacred Journey: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Announces Construction of New Sanctuary

With profound joy and a steadfast commitment to their Greek Orthodox heritage, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in egg Harbor Township, proudly announces a transformative decision - the construction of a new sanctuary. Collaborating with architect Christ J. Kamages, FAIA, of novato, CA, renowned for his architectural brilliance in designing Byzantine sacred spaces, they embark on a journey to create a welcoming sanctuary that reflects their ancient faith and spiritual legacy.

"Our journey began with the vision of fifteen families in Atlantic County. From celebrating the first Divine Liturgy in a Linwood gymnasium to the joyous inauguration of our church in egg Harbor Township on Palm Sunday, 1983, we've humbly thanked God for 41 years of blessings. n ow, we are embarking on a new and exciting chapter!" said Dr. Haitham Dib of Linwood, President of the Parish Council.

Chairing the Building Committee is Tom Papademetriou of Linwood who said “The new Church Design, is based on a sixth-century Byzantine church in Constantinople (Istanbul). It embraces an octagonal plan reminiscent of the current sanctuary, fostering an expansive, open interior.” The church will comprise a main altar, a dedicated chapel for St. nektarios, an adult baptistry honoring St. John the Baptist, and a stately bell tower. He adds, “The resplendent dome, encircled by luminous windows, serves as a divine testament, reflecting the Glory of God adorned with Light. upon entry,

all will perceive an enveloping sense of God's Grace, creating an atmosphere where divine presence is palpable.”

"Inspired by the vision of our founders who expanded the Greek Orthodox apostolic faith in South Jersey, we see building a new sanctuary as a witness to our faith for all people in our region," says Fr. George Liacopulos of egg Harbor Township, priest at Holy Trinity.

The congregation has resolved to undertake a comprehensive fundraising campaign, aptly named "Building on Faith: Our Faith, Our Future, Our Responsibility." Co-chairs Maria Lianides of Linwood and Lia Potiris of Absecon, express their enthusiasm, "We are thrilled to announce: We ARe Bu ILDInG A neW CHuRCH! Our Holy Trinity family has embraced the plan to build a new sanctuary, eagerly anticipating worshipping God together in a beautiful, light-filled space designed and built to give Glory to God."

"To commence construction, we must raise $4,000,000 by the end of 2024. We are proud to announce that we have already raised $1,200,000, thanks to the generosity and dedication of our community," they add.

As Holy Trinity embarks on this sacred journey, they invite all to join them in celebrating the continuation of their cherished ancient faith tradition and the creation of a sanctuary that will stand as a beacon of light and hope for generations to come. For further details on the building campaign and opportunities to contribute, please visit the newly launched website: https://holytrinityoutreach.com.