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Soon fireworks will light up the coastline as children parade down the block with bikes decked out in red, white, and blue. Beaches will be overflowing with sunbathers and surfers as flags wave with pride in celebration of America’s birthday.
Fourth of July weekend is one of the busiest at the Jersey Shore and we certainly know how to rise to the occasion. From the beaches to the premier entertainment and dining, Atlantic and Cape May County have it all! The waterways and back bays delight boaters and fishermen alike while the boardwalks offer thrills, fun, and delicious treats.
In the evening, you can feel the excitement up and down the boardwalks as Ferris wheels light up the night sky and rollercoasters offer thrills of joy. Arcades, mini golf, lo -
cal treats, and ongoing debates about “jimmies vs. sprinkles” fill our summers with memories we can’t forget. All of our senses come to life in the summer, especially our taste buds! The aroma of freshly baked pizza, overflowing popcorn, and french fries fills the air.
As darkness falls, fireworks light up the sky. There's something magical about having your toes in the sand while watching. If you prefer to stay on the Mainland though, Kennedy Park in Somers Point and Faunce l anding in Absecon are two of my favorite spots. They both offer multiple vantage points. you can look one way and see Atlantic City’s fireworks and turn your head north to enjoy Margate and Ocean City’s shows.
Photo by Donald B Kravitz
For all your 4th of July weekend events, local features and entertainment listings, check out this issue of Shore local. look for us every Thursday on newsstands and online at shorelocalnews.com.
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 Social 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, Rachael Guebara, Elisa Jo Eagan, David Setley, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Whitney Ullman, Raymond Tyler, Bill Quain, Chuck Darrow, Bruce Klauber, Lisa Zaslow-Segelman, Julia Train, Ursula Duffy, John Loreaux, Marjorie Preston, Tynan Hand Cover photo by Jon Brian Peterson
make sure to check out their ads and support local businesses.
Enjoy the summer and all the wonderful experiences it brings. May God Bless America!
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By Meteorologist Joe Martucci
As the weather saying goes at the Jersey Shore: Memorial Day weekend, we soak. labor Day weekend, we shine… And on the Fourth of July weekend, we sweat.
July is our hottest month of the year, on average. That typically means our midsummer holiday is the warmest of the three. However, the past five years have had mixed results.
At Atlantic City International Airport in Egg Harbor Township, Independence Day had the highest temperature in 2019 and 2020. 2021 and 2023 were not, though. Then, in an odd twist, the high temperature was exactly 84 degrees on all three holidays in 2022, according to the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Fourth of July has a good chance of reclaiming its rightful spot as the hottest summer holiday in 2024, though.
Fourth of July Forecast
l ast week, I talked about the Climate Prediction Center forecasting this weekend to be hotter than average. That will come true.
The Fourth of July and Friday will be closest to average, but pop-up afternoon showers and thunderstorms provide fireworks of their own this time of the year. It won’t be a washout. Typical of summer, the driest places will be east of Route 9, where the stabilizing sea breeze should keep most, if not all, rain away. West of there, expect isolated (Thursday) to scattered (Friday) coverage. Heavy rain could bring localized flooding.
So, the Smithville Fourth of July parade and other morning parades will be fine. Fireworks at the shore should be fine Thursday. you’ll need to watch the radar for storms inland at night. However, I believe most will
be OK.
Expect high temperatures to be in the upper 80s to low 90s inland. At the shore, highs will sit right around 80 degrees. The sea breeze will fluctuate temperatures throughout the days, though.
Overnight lows will generally be 65 to 70 degrees. It’ll be pretty sticky Friday night.
Saturday will be the wettest day of the Fourth of July weekend as it turns humid. A cold front will slowly pass through the state. I can’t rule out rain at any point, but it’ll be most widespread during the afternoon. Even the shore will be in on some rain.
While a few places will be completely dry, you should expect at least a little bit of rain Saturday. A few spots should see rain for three or four hours. Given the humid air, flooding rain threatens. In fact, this reminds me of Sunday. Cape May County flooded in the morning with inches of rain, while Atlantic and Ocean counties had two periods of showers and thunderstorms.
There will be outdoor time, but if you have a cookout or a day on the boat planned, move it to another day to be safe.
Highs will be in the low 80s at the shore and near 90 degrees inland. It will feel sultry out there.
Drying high pressure should fill in on Sunday. Winds out of the west will keep the warm breeze blowing from the Pine Barrens to the coastline. Highs should be in the low to mid-90s inland, while the shore will be in the mid-80s. Expect a healthy dose of strong July sun to cap off the holiday weekend.
Inches of rain, severe weather Sunday
l ast Sunday brought flooding rain to most of Cape May County and even southern Atlantic City during the morning. Then, severe thunderstorms rumbled through the South Jersey shoreline during the evening.
It was all thanks to a potent cold front. That clash of soupy, swampy air ahead of the front and drying breezes behind it fueled it to unleash rounds of significant storms Sunday.
A number of friends texted me photos of flooding near them Sunday morning. Based on the rainfall totals, the flooding was inevitable.
Belleplain State Forest, in Dennis Township, picked up 6.94 inches of rain between Saturday evening and
Sunday night. That was the highest in our general region. Closer to the shore, Sea Isle City picked up 4.74 inches of rain. Egg Harbor Township was drenched in 3.42 inches of rain, while Ocean City accumulated a whopping 3.42 inches of rain.
Most of that fell Saturday night into Sunday morning.
Eighteen storm reports were sent to NOAA from New Jersey (though most were in North Jersey). This means there was storm damage or very strong winds. Most unusual was a tree down on the Garden State Parkway by Exit 58.
Smoke and wildfires, stay away
This time last year, we were still reeling from the rounds of smoke from the northern Canadian wildfires. It grayed up our sky and made those sunny days dull. At worst, we had poor air quality. June 7 was the worst of it. If you went north of Toms River, the immense smoke turned the sky orange for a time. Besides one bout of smoke in late February, our sky has been blue during the day when the sun is out. let’s be thankful for that. There are active wildfires in Alaska and northwest Canada. However, for Canada, 2024’s number of wildfires and the area it consumes is well below the 10-year average.
The wildfires that have burned forests were not transported here by the jet stream or winds high aloft. let’s not forget about our own Pine Barrens either, which can be a tinderbox, and a strong source for wildfires. We’ve been quiet here as well. Our biggest blaze was the County line fire, which burned 510 acres in Wharton State Forest, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. Hopefully, it stays that way into the summer.
Happy Fourth of July!
Enjoy the beach, boat, cookouts and our freedom in America. I’ll livestream the Smithville Independence Day parade Thursday at 9 a.m. on Shore local’s Facebook page.
Joe earned his Meteorology Degree from Rutgers University. He is approved by the American Meteorological Society as a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist and Certified Digital Meteorologist, the only one in the state with both. He's won 10 New Jersey Press Association Awards. You can find him on social media @joemartwx
By James FitzPatrick Contributing Writer
When it comes to blueberries, they haven’t always been a Jersey thing.
Before the early 1900s, blueberries as we know them today didn’t exist as a farm-raised crop. They were picked in the wild because farmers had not figured out how to cultivate them in a way that reliably produced quality fruit.
The high-bush blueberry plant, the berry-producer in wide use today, was born out of a collaboration between Elizabeth Coleman White, a farmer’s daughter and self-taught botanist in Pemberton, Burlington County, and u.S. Department of Agriculture botanist Frederick Coville who was in search of optimal growing conditions for taming the berry.
White was determined to develop
a domesticated blueberry that could thrive in the acidic soil of southern New Jersey’s Pine Barrens. Her father owned a large cranberry farm and she often wondered if wild “swamp huckleberries” could be cultivated as a second crop.
In 1910, when White read about Coville’s experiments, she invited him to work with
produced the best quality berries.
Over time they identified more than 100 varieties which they grafted and cross pollinated until they came up with a plant that consistently produced quality berries. They harvested their first cultivated berries in 1914 and by 1916, their berries were ready for sale to the public.
her on her father‘s farm on her blueberry quest. Together they went to work, recruiting the help of locals to search for plants in the wild that
Fast forward to today and blueberries have bloomed into New Jersey’s top crop with a 2023 production value of $92.1 million and more than $4 billion nationally.
“New Jersey annually ranks in the top six in the u.S. in the production of blueberries,” according to the
New Jersey Department of Agriculture. “Farmers in the Garden State harvested 50 million pounds of blueberries on 10,800 acres last year.”
The trend is on track to continue.
“With the weather cooperating, we are off to a good start, and we think it will be an excellent season,” said Paul Macrie, whose family owns and operates Macrie Brothers Blueberry Farms on 800 acres in Hammonton, also known as the Blueberry Capital of the World. “We expect good volume for our harvest and should have the larger-sized, juicy blueberries that help define New Jersey’s crop.”
There’s a lot to love about blueberries. From their plump, juicy deliciousness, to their close connection to the local economy and history, to their nutricious properties, blueberries and summer at the Jersey Shore go perfectly together.
One of the best ways to appreciate blueberries is by visiting one of the many you-pick farms located in the area. With plenty of choices nearby, why not make blueberries the
key ingredient in your next family fun outing? Between Atlantic and Cape May counties, there is an abundance of pick-your-own blueberry farms to choose from.
Before you go, a little planning will go a long way. Here’s some ideas you might want to consider.
First, you must decide where to go. Word of mouth is always the best way to find a reliable suggestion. If not, check websites, Facebook and Google reviews as they do not all have web pages.
Find out what the farm has to offer. Some have limited hours and limited days, while others go from dawn to dusk. Some require reservations and are pet friendly while others have amenities including kayaking and music. Can they accommodate people with accessibility needs? How much are they charging? Prices are based on how much you pick and many are cash only.
Whichever you decide, be sure to be prepared. That means consider comfort and safety. Mornings will be cooler and less sun intensive. Water, water and more water will be essential and of course, stay sun protected either with a hat, sunscreen, longsleeve clothing or all three. Wear closed toe shoes and be prepared for bugs. Bring a rigid container for each adult picking.
When you are there ask lots of questions as the attendants know best where the good picking is.
By taking a deep dive into blueberries you will be supporting one of South Jerry’s most important industries. Enjoy!
This list does not claim to be comprehensive. If there are no websites listed, check Facebook or call.
Allen Family Farm 26 Tarkiln Road Woodbine 609-861-3778
Blueberry Bills 914 11th Street Hammonton 609-839-4306 https://blueberrybillfarms.com/
DiMeo Farms & Nursery 3101 Nesco Road Hammonton 609-561-5905
https://www.dimeofarms.com/
legendary Blueberries 511 West Duerer St. Egg Harbor City 609-703-3355
lindsay’s Pick your Own Blueberries 436 Pleasant Mills Road Hammonton 609-561-2474
littleworth Tree Farm 1957 Tuckahoe Road Petersburg 609-628-3346 https://littleworthfarm.com/
McCay Blueberry Farms 176 Middle Road Hammonton 609-204-7680
Stiles Farm and Nursery 172 South Delsea Drive Cape May Court House 609-600-7939
Walking Bird Farm 250 S Mannheim Ave. Egg Harbor City 609-678-4129
https://www.walkingbirdfarm.com/
July is National Blueberry Month and on July 8, the nation, or at least those who love blueberries, will celebrate National Blueberry Day. learn about the countless creative and flavorful ways to celebrate at blueberry. org.
Whether it’s for fun, flavor, health or convenience that you crave in a snack food, blueberries have all of the bases covered.
Once you get your hard-earned harvest home, that’s when the payoff begins, deciding the best way to enjoy them.
Copy editor and Contributing
Writer James FitzPatrick has been a community journalist in Atlantic and Cape May counties for more than 30 years, including 20 years as editor of The Current Newspapers. He lives in Hammonton.
By Steffen Klenk
Drivers along Ocean Heights Avenue in Egg Harbor Township may have noticed something special in recent months. lined along the bustling roadway more than 25 decorative banners, each one displaying the name and photo of a local member of our u nited States Armed Forces. These individuals, both living and deceased, are being brought to the spotlight as part of the Hometown Heroes Banner Program.
Donna Burns is the founder and volunteer for the local Hometown Hero Banner initiative, a project that serves as a living tribute for the community to both honor and recognize our local military population. The banners, which are hung from poles lining the roadway,
are being proudly displayed Between Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
The project took shape two years ago after Burns noticed similar banners in Pennsylvania. She began doing research on the program and reached out to the mayor’s office to begin the process. “I’d seen them in other towns and thought I would love to see that in our town.”
From there, she began reaching out to local veterans’ groups interested in assisting with the project and garnering interest. Mark Doherty, commander of American legion Post 295, says the banner program is an opportunity to show pride in the service of local veterans. “We are so pleased with the overwhelming support we received from the mayor and other elected officials, the Roads Department, and all those who had a hand in bringing this program to a successful conclusion.”
So far, the program has been adopted locally in Egg Harbor Township and Northfield. To qualify for a banner, each veteran must have a connection to the local area, whether they have lived in the area or attended school locally.
The Hometown Hero Banner Program originally launched in Harrisburg, Pa. in 2006 and has spread to various cities and towns throughout the country. Each of the banners is made in the united States, printed on durable vinyl, with cast aluminum brackets and fiberglass arms with reinforced sleeves to ensure easy installation and longevity.
This ongoing initiative is bringing members of the community together in a special way that honors and pays tribute to those who have not only served but also sacrificed.
Members of Burns’ family served in the military, including her husband, Joe Burns, a 33-year Air Force veteran, and her late father, John Russo, who served in the Navy. She described how important this project is not just to her, but to the community. “It’s for the love of the veterans and what they do for our country. This is my small contribution to let them know that they are appreciated, were appreciated, and still are appreciated.”
Doherty expressed his thanks to all who help make this local initiative pos-
sible. “As a veteran I am most grateful to Donna Burns for her tireless work in making this program successful.”
Over the past few months, interest in the project has grown. Recent posts on social media showed the installation of the banners along Ocean Heights Avenue. Plans are also in place to bring the initiative to Northfield, with further details and announcements coming soon.
If you are interested in learning more about the local Hometown Hero Banner Program, you can reach out to Donna Burns by emailing dburns054@ comcast.net. you may also email Mike Doherty, commander at American legion Post 295, at mbdoherty@ comcast.net, or Jerry Crosson, vice commander, at tas331@comcast.net.
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.
By Julia Train
It was a cloudy day on Saturday, June 29, but that didn’t stop the planet’s biggest beach party from going on.
For the past 13 years, Margate’s Beachstock has brought thousands of both South Jersey locals and visitors to celebrate.
A plethora of vendors set up between Huntington and Granville avenues for the free, 14-hour event held by Margate Business Association.
There was an eclectic mix of crafters with their art, clothing and accessories, like Beach Caddy, Sun Head, Play PKl and Dye It up– whose owner, Marc Wassermam was actually tie dying items while at the event.
Along with the merchants set up along the entryway and beach, there was no shortage of food options.
Attendees could get hamburgers
and french fries from Margate Dairy Bar and Burger, pizza from Jace’s Place, shrimp bangers and crab cake sliders from Vagabond Kitchen and Taphouse, tacos from TacoCat and barbeque pulled pork and brisket from South Jersey Smokehouse.
For dessert there was an assortment of rum cakes from Goodway Bakery and creamy cannolis from Mannino’s Cannoli Express,
a nod to the film later shown at 6:45 p.m.
There were two stages providing non-stop entertainment, one for the kids and another with South Pacific Island Tahitian Drums, Polynesian Dancers, Samoan Fire Knife Dance, Emerald Isle Irish Dancers and music from No Clue Trio, Sunrise Cries, and NJ British Invasion.
There were a variety of
smoothies and bowls by California Frozen yogurt and ice cream from Margate Dairy Bar and Burger.
“[My favorite part is] probably the bonfire. And the food was really great,” said Myla lipari, 20, from Egg Harbor Township. She had ice cream from Margate Dairy Bar and a lobster roll from PJ Buckets.
There was also a variety of soda served in vintage tin cups by the iconic Tin Cup Soda and a Tiki Beach Bar for those who were 21 years old or over.
Next to the Tiki bar, Matthew Deibert from Sandcreation spent the day creating the Trolls-themed Beachstock sand sculpture,
activities people of all ages could choose from, such as free Air Circus kite lesson, Stacey's Surf lessons, sand sculpting lessons by Matthew Deibert, Margate Fire Department’s Cool Blast, a kid’s treasure hunt, limbo contests and hula hooping.
As music filled the beach, attend -
ees could also participate in a wiffle ball home run derby, a cornhole tournament–which Miss New Jersey 2024, Elizabeth Mendel was seen playing– and an AC Volleyball Factory Tournament.
In addition to Miss New Jersey, “Good Morning America” host Morgan Norwood was there participating in activities and filming for a segment that will air some time after the Fourth of July.
iHeart Media radio stations 95.1
WAy V, 100.7 WZXl and Philly’s Q 102 also brought their famous inflatables and promotions teams to interact with the crowd.
Pickle Juice, a pickleball facility in Ventnor even offered complimentary play, kids clinics, and other activities. The Pickle Juice team also gave out tee shirts, hats, paddles and more. As the sun went down, a bonfire was lit within a 20-by-20-footconfined area, “Trolls Band Together” played on an outdoor screen close to the pickleball court and entertainment was provided by South Pacific Island Fire Dancers, Q102's DJ Nico Oso and KNOX.
“It was such a beautiful moment to see everyone singing and dancing and just enjoying each other and the entertainment,” said Anna Maria Blescia-Courter, Margate Business Association executive director.
Julia is a student at Rider University, majoring in multiplatform journalism with a minor in social media strategies. At school, she writes and is news editor for The Rider News and is the News Director for the radio station, producing news updates. She’ll be graduating in the spring. Connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain
Atlantic City Fireworks at Tropicana
▶10 p.m.
Iowa Ave. and the Beach Catch Tropicana Atlantic City’s spectacular fireworks show at 10 p.m. this July 4th. Fireworks are launched from the beachfront and can be viewed along the boardwalk.
Galloway Fourth of July Parade
▶9 a.m.
Smithville Blvd. & Moss Mill Rd. to Historic Smithville 615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
The parade will begin at the Smithville Square Shopping Center on Smithville Blvd. to Moss Mill Rd. then past Historic Smithville where the parade will end at the Village Greene. More information is available at www.july4galloway.com.
Linwood Bike Parade
▶10 a.m.
linwood Historical Society Museum 16 Poplar Ave.
Join the linwood Historical Society and linwood Fire Department for the parade, which will begin and end at the museum. Decorate your bike and stop by the Museum and Fire Department after the parade for July 4th activities.
Longport American Mile
▶6:30 p.m.
longport Fire House 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Join the longport Volunteer Fire Department for The American Mile. The course will be a point-to-point race, beginning at 11th Ave. & Atlantic Ave, running north on Atlantic to the finish line at Pelham Ave. Sign up at www. longportnj.gov.
Margate Fourth of July
Fireworks Extravaganza
▶9 p.m.
Huntington Ave. Beach
Hosted by the Margate Mothers Association. Bring your beach chairs, blankets, and kids, and enjoy spectacular fireworks displayed over the beach. learn more at www.margatehasmore.com or call (609) 823-9144.
Northfield Connolly Mile
▶8:30 a.m.
City Hall 1600 Shore Rd.
Registration is open now by visiting www.cityofnorthfield.org. Day of registration will be open at Northfield City Hall from 7:30 – 8:15 a.m.
Northfield July 4th Parade
▶10 a.m.
Shore Rd. & Jackson Ave. to Burton Ave. Fire Station
The parade will take place along
Shore Road from Jackson Avenue to the Burton Avenue Fire Station via Mill Road. Parade participants are welcome to join, including volunteers, community groups, floats, Northfield businesses, and kids on bikes. Contact Joan at (609) 374-6614 for details.
Ocean City Fourth of July Celebration
▶7 – 9 p.m.
Ocean City Boardwalk
Celebrate the Fourth of July with a kite flying competition at 7 p.m. next to the Music Pier at Moorlyn & the beach. A spectacular boardwalk fireworks display tops off the evening at 9 p.m., viewable along the Boardwalk from 5th – 14th St. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Ocean City Pops Star-Spangled Spectacular
▶Wednesday, July 3 & Thursday, July 4, 8 p.m.
Carey Stadium 6th St. & Boardwalk
The Ocean City Pops will perform two free outdoor shows, performimg patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers.
Ocean City North End Bike Parade
▶10 a.m.
Ocean City Riviera Neighborhood Bike Parade
▶12 p.m.
Rosemar lane Park
Sponsored by the Riviera Neighborhood. Registration opens at 11 a.m. and the parade begins at 12 p.m.
Somers Point July 4th Beach Concert
▶7 p.m.
William Morrow Beach 800 Bay Ave.
Celebrate America’s Birthday with a very special concert as the world-famous John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band perform the legacy of Eddie & The Cruisers, with such hits as “On the Dark Side” and “Tender years.”
Strathmere Fourth of July Parade
▶10:30 a.m.
Strathmere Firehouse down Commonwealth Ave.
Registration opens at 9 a.m. at the Strathmere Firehouse. The parade will begin from the firehouse at 10:30, proceeding south along Commonwealth Ave. An awards ceremony and refreshments will follow at Deauville Inn following the parade. Rain date: Friday, July 5.
Upper Township Fourth of July Celebration
▶4 – 10 p.m.
Amanda’s Field
Come on out for upper Township’s annual 4th of July Celebration. Fun for the entire family, the event will include live music, food trucks, craft vendors, interactive games, and a fireworks display. Admission is free. More information is available at www. uppertownship.com. Rain date: Friday, July 5.
Ventnor Independence Celebration
▶Wednesday, July 3, 5 – 9 p.m. Newport Avenue Beach
longport Bridge parking lot at Newcastle Rd.
Sponsored by the Gardens Civic Association. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the parade begins at 10 a.m.
Ocean City South End Bike Parade
▶10 a.m.
40th St. & Asbury Ave.
Sponsored by the South Ocean City Improvement Association, City of Ocean City and the Chamber of Commerce. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the parade begins at 10 a.m. The parade will travel south down Central Ave. to 53rd St. and the playground.
The evening kicks off at 5 p.m. with crafters and food vendors. Registration for the Ventnor Mile one mile run opens at 6 p.m. and the race begins at 7 p.m. Enjoy live music from Ricky Stevens at 5:45 p.m. and The Exceptions at 7 p.m. followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the beach at dusk. For more information, visit www.ventnorcity.org.
Weymouth & Estell Manor
Independence Celebration
▶Friday, July 5, 7 – 10 p.m.
Weymouth Twp. Municipal Field 45 S. Jersey Ave. Dorothy Join in a spectacular evening of celebrations. The Weymouth Historical Museum will be open from 6:30 – 8 p.m. live music will follow at 7 p.m. with a dazzling fireworks display to cap off the evening at 9:30 p.m. All events are scheduled for July 4th except where noted
Multiday events
Brigantine Family Fun Weekend
▶Friday, July 5 & Saturday, July 6, 4 – 9 p.m.
Brigantine Community Center
42nd St.
Join the Brigantine Chamber of Commerce for a full weekend of activities, including rides, games, entertainment, a vendor market, and giveaways. The event will be held in the CER complex. For more information, visit www.brigantinechamber.com.
Family Nights in Ocean City
▶Mondays & Wednesdays, 7 – 9 p.m.
Ocean City Boardwalk
Free entertainment will include jugglers, music, characters, and more from 8th – 12th St. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Mummers Night
▶Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m.
Ocean City Boardwalk
Watch the Mummers strutting the Boardwalk from 6th – 14th St. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Beach Walks in Ocean City
▶Tuesday 9 a.m., Wednesday 6:30 p.m.
59th St. & Central Ave.
Enjoy a nature walk along the beach in Ocean City. Meet at the beach entrance to Corson’s Inlet at 59th St. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation. com.
Crying on the Camino starring Celeste Mancinelli
▶Saturday, July 13, 7 p.m. & Sunday, July 14, 3 p.m. Gateway Playhouse 739 Bay Ave. Somers Point
is part of Thrilling Thursdays. learn more at www.margatehasmore.com.
Crying on the Camino is a one woman show written and performed by Celeste Mancinelli, the recipient of two Broadway World Awards including Best New Play and Best Performance in a Play. learn more and purchase tickets online at www. gatewaybythebay.org.
Wednesday, July 3
Wacky Wednesday: Pie Eating Contest
▶10:30 a.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
Saturday, July 6
Red Wine and Blueberry Festival
▶9 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City
Join Renault Winery for a full day of activities, including a patriotic 5K run, live music, face painting, lawn games, food trucks, beer tent, shops, and fireworks display to cap off the day. View the full schedule at www. renaultwinery.com.
Ocean City Sailing Foundation Open House
▶9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Bayside Center 520 Bay Ave.
Celebrate America with a good old-fashioned apple and cherry pie eating contest. No hands allowed. The contest is free and limited to 150 participants. Must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate.
Thursday, July 4
Market Days
▶10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Asbury Ave. Ocean City
Enjoy strolling entertainment, face painters, and balloon sculptors along Asbury Ave. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Friday, July 5
Beach Exercise: Low Impact
▶8 a.m.
6th Street Volleyball Courts, Ocean City
Attendance is free. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call (609) 3986900.
Thrilling Movies at the Beach
▶7 p.m.
Granville and Huntington Ave. Beach
Join Margate for a free movie at the beach this Friday. Movies are shown on the beach behind the Bloom Pavilion. This week’s feature film is Kung Fu Panda 4. Arrive at 6:30 p.m. for free fun activities and giveaways, while supplies last. The event
Free sailboat rides help people experience the fun of sailing and learn about the OCSF’s weekly sailing camps for kids ages 8 to 14. Call (609) 418-3356 for more information.
A Visit with Friends from the Zoo
▶10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
longport library 2305 Atlantic Ave. Bring the kids to longport library to meet and greet some special visitors from the Cape May County Park and Zoo. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.
T. John Carey Masters Swim
▶6:15 p.m.
Ocean City Beach between 6th – 14th St.
The Master’s Swim is one of the premier open-water swimming events on the Jersey Shore, consisting of a one-mile ocean race following a point-to-point course running parallel to the beach. Competitors will enjoy memorable views passing the iconic Music Pier as spectators cheer on the swimmers. Registration is open now at www.raceforum. com/johncarey. Visit www.ocnj.us/ departments/OCBP for updated information and starting location.
Sunday, July 7
FCA Foam Fest Surf Contest
▶8 a.m.
7th Street Beach, Ocean City
Join FCA Surf for its 7th Annual
Foam Fest, where fun and foam rule the sand and waves. This event is rain or shine. The first heat will begin promptly at 8:30. Friends and family are welcome. learn more and sign up at www.fcasurf.org.
Zumba at the Library
▶11 a.m.
longport library 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Dance for fitness at the library. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.
Sunday Night Concerts at the Tabernacle
▶7 p.m.
550 Wesley Ave. Ocean City
Join Ocean City Tabernacle for a free concert every Sunday night. This week, hear The King’s Brass perform patriotic music and innovative worship to lift your spirits. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
OC POPS Greatest Hits
▶7:30 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
Few orchestras in the world have the flexibility and versatility of the Ocean City Pops, and this evening is going to show it off. you will hear symphonic folk tales, brassy fanfares, Hollywood hits, Tin Pan Alley tunes, and even funk and soul. Tickets and more information are available at www.ocnj.us/boxoffice.
Monday, July 8
Beach Exercise: Yoga
▶8 a.m.
6th Street Volleyball Courts, Ocean City
Attendance is free. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call (609) 3986900.
We Walk Somers Point
▶8:30 a.m.
Somers Point Senior Community Center 22 N. Ambler Rd.
The City of Somers Point is hosting 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.
EHT Monday Morning Madness
▶11 a.m.
Robert J. lincoln Amphitheater in Tony Canale Park
Presented by EHT Recreation. Enjoy free weekly family entertainment at Tony Canale Park. This week, the Magic of Bill Kerwood. Visit www. ehtrec.com or www.facebook.com/ EHTRecreation for more information
and updates in the event of weather.
Jersey Gumbo Festival
▶3 – 11 p.m.
The Point 998 Bay Ave. Somers Point
Enjoy a free festival with free parking and a full day of great louisiana entertainment with over a dozen chefs competing for your favorite choice of gumbo. Enjoy live music by louisiana fiddler Waylan Thibodeaux, Ben levin’s New Orleans R&B Band, plus Billy Walton and Destinee Monroe. Plus, enjoy a Gumbo Cook Off. All you can taste for only $20 from 3 – 6 p.m. The festival is produced by Tony Mart Presents & The Point. For more information, visit www. tonymart.com.
Summer Author Series: Christina
Baker Kline
▶6:30 p.m.
longport library 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Featuring Christina Baker Kline, author of the bestselling book Orphan Train. This program will be held at the gazebo behind Borough Hall. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more. Rain date: Tuesday, July 9.
The Wailers
▶7 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
Produced by BRE Presents. For
more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.ocnj.us/SummerConcertSeries.
Funtastic Tuesdays
▶10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Downtown Asbury Ave. Ocean City
Enjoy strolling entertainment, face painters, and balloon sculptors along Asbury Ave. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Bicycle Auction in Ocean City
▶10 a.m.
Shelter Rd. of Tennessee Ave. behind the Golf Course
Approximately 115 bicycles will be sold. Registration begins at 9 a.m. A driver’s license, passport, or valid I.D. is required to register. Accepted payments include bank checks with ID, traveler’s checks, and cash only. For more information, call the purchasing office at (609) 525-9356.
Charlotte’s Web: The Musical ▶10:30 a.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
Presented by the Ocean City Theatre Company. Based on E.B. White’s loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte. This treasured tale, featuring madcap
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and endearing farm animals, explores bravery, selfless love, and the true meaning of friendship. Tickets are available at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com.
Village Film Society
▶10:30 a.m.
Join JFS Village and Tom Celandine for a discussion about the movie, The Third Man, starring Orson Welles, Trevor Howard, and Joseph Cotton. The star-studded movie can be viewed on streaming outlets and is available at Margate library. This program will be held via Zoom. RSVP by July 5 by calling (609) 287-8872 or email Tina Serota at tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
Game Days
▶11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Beth El Synagogue 500 N. Jerome Ave. Margate
This event will take place weekly through August 27. Cost is $15 per person and includes full lunch and snacks. Call (609) 823-2725 to reserve a table or to join a game.
Trivia at the Library
▶6:30 p.m.
longport library 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Gather your friends and test your knowledge in an evening of brain-teasing fun. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.
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. Movie by the Sea
▶8 p.m.
Deauville Inn 201 Willard Rd. Strathmere
Bring your favorite beach chair or blanket and catch classic summer blockbuster movies under the stars. This week, watch Back to the Future on the beach. Snacks and drinks available for purchase.
Wednesday, July 10
Flyers Community Caravan
▶12 – 2 p.m.
Ocean City Sports and Civic Center 6th St. & the Boardwalk
The Philadelphia Flyers make a stop in Ocean City on their 2024 Shore Tour. Enjoy an afternoon of family-friendly activities including Flyers-themed giveaways, appearances by the Flyers Alumni, In-Arena Host Everett Jackson, the Flyers Ice
Spartina
Mud Pie
IBKUL
Oh My Gauze
Tommy Bahama
Johnnie O
Psycho Bunny
Southern Tide
Escape
Vintage Havana
Dress Forum
Ronaldo
Brighton Scout
Sand Clouds
Hey Dudes
Sanuk
Reef
Cobian
Ray Bands
Oneils
Blenders
BEACH SUPPLIES & CHAIRS
8000 Ventnor Ave,
609-541-4472
6th Street Volleyball Courts, Ocean City
Attendance is free. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call (609) 398-6900.
Wacky Wednesday: Taffy Sculpting
▶10:30 a.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
use your creativity to shape and sculpt Shriver’s salt water taffy into your very own unique masterpiece. The contest is free and open to the first 200 participants. Must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate. Children’s Summer Playhouse: Alice in Wonderland
▶11 a.m.
Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Farris Dr. Galloway
Join Alice on an adventure through Wonderland after she follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole on a golden afternoon. Don’t be late for this important date. Tickets can be purchased at www.stockton. edu/pac.
Freckle Contest
▶6 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
Registration is free and begins at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Music Pier. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.
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. Big Broadway Bash with the OC POPS
▶7:30 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
Join Maestro Vince lee and the Ocean City Pops in a celebration of one of America’s most enduring musical genres. Come see some of the best and brightest talent perform music ranging from classics by Rodgers and Hammerstein, to sophisticated songs by Sondheim and upbeat tunes from modern Broadway. Tickets and more information are available at www.ocnj.us/boxoffice.
Thursday, July 11
OC-UT Rotary Club Meeting
▶7 a.m.
uncle Bill’s Pancake House 21st St. & Asbury Ave. Ocean City
The Rotary Club of Ocean City – upper Township will host an in-person breakfast meeting. The meeting will feature a program by
Rae Griffiths, Operations Manager at Cape May Point Science Center. Rotarians, perspective members, and other attendees are encouraged to attend. Visit http://ocutrotary.org for additional information.
Sand-Sculpting Contest
▶9 a.m.
6th St. Beach, Ocean City
Open to kids, teens, adults, and families. Registration opens at 9 a.m. Judging will take place at 11 a.m. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Sunset Yoga on the Beach
▶7 p.m.
William Morrow Beach, Somers Point
Bring some water, a towel, or a yoga mat of your choice, and join in a 60-minute gentle yoga on the beach. Classes will be held every Thursday through August. This donation-based class is open to all.
Friday, July 12
Beschen-Callahan Memorial Lifeguard Races
▶6 p.m.
15th Avenue Beach, North Wildwood
This annual lifeguard race brings dozens of Beach Patrols up and down the South Jersey Shore to Five Mile Beach. The event is free to attend. Hosted by the North Wildwood Beach Patrol. For more information, call (609) 522-7500.
Saturday, July 13
HSOC Beef & Beer
▶5 – 8 p.m.
Surf Dog Bar & Grill 1563 Dehirsch Ave. Woodbine
Join the Humane Society of Ocean City for their annual Beef & Beer. The festivities will include fantastic food and drink, DJ, 50/50, raffles, and door
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prizes. Proceeds help shelter animals in need. $35 per person through July 6th. limited tickets will be available for purchase at the door for $40. More information is available at www. hsocnj.com.
Joe Conklin and the City Rhythm Orchestra
▶7:30 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
Joe Conklin and the City Rhythm Orchestra combine lively tunes and cutting satire, capturing the essence of Philadelphia’s sports culture with a delightful blend of music and comedy with entertaining performance that pays homage to the city’s beloved teams and their passionate supporters. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.
Sunday, July 14
Dragon Boat Festival
▶8:30 a.m.
lake lenape East
Join Cancer Support Communities New Jersey at Gilda’s Club for this annual event. The festival will include a day of Dragon Boat races, fantastic local food vendors, non-profits, and fun for the whole family, along with a flower ceremony for loved ones touched by cancer. Additional infor-
mation is available at www.cscnj.org/ dragon-boat-festival.
Summer Garden Tour
▶9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Join the little Gardens Club of Atlantic County for their 25th Summer Garden Tour. Walk through private gardens in Absecon, Northfield, l inwood, Egg Harbor Township, and Mays l anding. Tickets are $15. Proceeds benefit local civic and environmental organizations. Tickets are available at Joe’s Garden Center in Galloway, l ang’s Garden Center in linwood, and Bob’s Garden Center in EHT. For more information, call Janet at (609) 226-6596. This event is rain or shine.
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.
NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups
▶Monday, July 8, 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, July 11, 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. Contact Gail Christian at (609) 6523800 ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj. org to receive a meeting link.
Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, July 17, 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.
Invisible Illness Support Group
▶Saturday, July 20, 2 p.m.
Salon Amici 319 E. Jimmie leeds Rd. Galloway
For more information, please contact Abby Ward at (609) 214-8777.
Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.
▶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 l abor Day weekend. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket.
▶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. Now through Sept. 1. For more information, visit thehoneytree.net or e-mail wellness@ thehoneytree.net.
▶Thursdays, 4 – 7 p.m.
Historic Smithville Village Greene 615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
Go Green Galloway hosts their
weekly Green Market, Thursdays through September 5, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates.
▶Thursdays, 8:30 –11:30 a.m.
Steve and Cookies
Parking lot 9700 Amherst Ave.
The Margate Farmers Market is open for the 2024 season. Markets will be open starting Thursday, June 20 through August 29. For more information, visit margatehasmore.com.
▶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 & As -
bury Ave. Wednesdays through Sept. 4. For more information, call 1-800-BEACH-NJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.
▶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.
▶ Fridays, 8:30 a.m. –12 p.m.
St. James Church Newport & 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.
By Marjorie Preston
In 2018, retirees Mike and Robin Halpern moved to upper Township with an idyllic plan: to turn their 5-acre Christmas tree farm into a winery, complete with an 80-seat tasting room.
It sounds like something out of a Hallmark movie, but the plot soon unraveled. Residents in the quiet Beesley’s Point neighborhood pushed back due to concerns about noise, traffic, and the use of pesticides. Things got heated, then antagonistic. The couple even took some flak for their business name, Ocean City Winery, because the shore resort is a dry town. “We never thought there would be so much opposition from people
saying, ‘ you’re a religious heretic,’” says Mike, a former IT consultant.
But that was then. The Halperns have settled the dispute with their neighbors and township officials, agreed to drop the onsite tasting room, and found a possible alternative location in Somers Point. They are now licensed to produce wine by the state Alcohol Beverage Control. And best of all, tensions in the neighborhood have eased considerably.
“We have good community support now,” says Mike.
The Halperns aren’t new to winemaking. Twenty-five years ago, they started a crop at their farm in Cumberland County. “We thought, ‘Growing grapes, how hard can it be?’” says Mike. “The classic stupid understatement.”
They spent years “doing it right and doing it wrong,” consulting with other winemakers as well as experts at Rutgers u niversity. “We spent time in vineyards in California and Germany. At five years, we deluded
ourselves into believing we knew something about grapes. But at 25 years, we’re still learning every day.”
While it’s easy to romanticize winemaking as a profession, the process, from planting the first vine to popping the first cork, takes years to bear fruit. It’s subject to variables that are largely out of the vintners’ control, like climate, weather, and disease. It requires constant monitoring and long hours of toil. The grapes must be harvested at peak ripeness. End to end, it can take up to two years to produce white wine, three years for red, “and longer depending on how much barrel-aging you want to do,” says Mike.
“ yes, it takes a long time,” agrees Robin, a retired nurse. “The plants aren't ready until they're ready, and when they're ready, you're already behind.”
luckily, atmospheric and soil conditions in South Jersey are remarkably suited to this crop. According to research from Rutgers, the Garden
State “has all the right ingredients” for a robust winemaking industry, including “an amenable climate and proximity to the ocean that cultivates a rich soil for a growing wine industry.”
According to Mike, French wine growers who visited the Halperns’ farm in Cumberland County “actually got teary-eyed, because it seemed so much like Burgundy,” a province in French wine country that produces some of the world’s best chardonnays and pinot noirs.
Cheers!
The Halperns estimate that their two vineyards, in Cumberland and Cape May counties, will eventually produce 20 tons of grapes each year—enough to make 15,000 bottles of wine. They also have a plenary winery license, which means they can augment the homegrown yield with grapes and juice from other growers. They’re now waiting on the green
light from Somers Point to establish a tasting room at a property they own on Bay Avenue, near the Anchorage restaurant. The 1905 structure includes living quarters, now being used as an Airbnb, plus a commercial kitchen and space where wine lovers can taste the Halperns’ proprietary vintages, including cayuga, merlot, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, chambourcin and vidal.
“The cabernet franc is our handsdown favorite,” says Mike. “It's more mellow than a cab sauv and more robust than a merlot. It grows well in New Jersey and reflects where it’s grown—by the bay—very nicely.
“That said, we’re really enjoying the American whites, vidal and cuyaga, when they’re made oldschool and get some time in a barrel. They have lots of flavor and most definitely ‘taste’ of the ocean.”
What’s the most satisfying part of being a winemaker? “It’s learning the science and then applying it in the winery,” he says. “There’s a lot of art involved, but the final product is reliant on following the fundamentals, then making adjustments based on our tastes and what we learn from our customers. That's the really fun part.”
And the most challenging part? Conceding that the farmer, ultimately, is not the boss. “One thing I’ve learned is to stop yelling at the weather,” says Mike. “Who’s in charge here? Not me. Nature’s in charge.”
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.
By Chef Christina Martin
The Margate Community Farmers Market is carefully curated with a charming area where you can visit drink vendors and then stop and sit under a shaded area to enjoy your farmers market treats. you can tell this market was well-thought-out and designed with the shopper in mind. Open every Thursday through Aug. 29 from 8:30-11:30 a.m., the market is located at the corner of Monroe & Amherst Ave in Margate City.
The market was originally started to support the local economy and small businesses. It is run by Cookie Till, Tiffany Rando and Sinead Friel-Ewing, along with a crew of volunteers. All of whom do a superb job in making this market one in which you cannot wait to return the next week. They take pride in making this market
food forward, choosing vendors like local farmers, bakers, prepared food makers and artisans.
The day I visited the market the weather was beautiful. There was plenty of parking along the water, which is metered and there was also street parking available.
Want a refreshing healthy treat while roaming the farmers market? Make a stop at the Healthy Hippo food truck which is cute camper style food truck that sells smoothie bowls. Owners Rocky and Rebecca have been in business for six years. They
offer catering, birthday celebrations and events. Rocky is local and is a graduate of AC High School and his dad is the owner of Ventnor Produce on Dorset Avenue. Supplying fresh produce runs in the family. I ordered the farmers market bowl which includes acai, blueberries, strawberries, gluten free granola, drizzle of peanut butter and I replaced the honey with agave making it vegan. The owners have a brick and mortar store at 5209 Atlantic Avenue in Ventnor City. you can also find them at other local farmers markets and on social media.
Is It Spicy Sauce Co. is another vendor that is farm to table. A small batch boutique that makes hot sauce, ketchup and aioli, all made with Jersey Fresh produce. Spicy Sauce Co is a woman-owned business. Sauce-maker Carmen Guzman-Francesco works with farmers to bring you handpicked quality peppers that are turned into sauce. Some of the flavors include Piney’s Family Farm Mango Ginger with Dragon Thai Chillies, Salsa Verde, Cherry Bomb Ketchup and more. Find out more about Carmen’s Spice company at https://isitspicysauceco.square.site/ light of Dawn Candle Co has a big following. Many visitors coming up to her table say how great the candles smell and how much they enjoy them. I first met Dawn while shopping at Reed’s Farm Market and Animal Sanctuary. She
welcomed us upon arriving and loves animals include my rescue pup Theo who loves visiting markets and gets to sit with her while I shop. This week I purchased two candles for gifts; Rise up is an orange scented candle that has a small piece of orange it in. Dawn told me Rise up will give you energy. The second one I loved was Coastal Cottage. It smells like fresh ocean and it is topped with the cutest tiny shells. These candles are handcrafted, reasonably priced and make a wonderful gift. I gave both of mine to family as gifts and looking forward to getting one for myself on my next visit.
Also at the market you will find plenty of fresh produce from farms that use organic farming practices: The Potato Homestead, Nectar Flow Farm and Reed’s Farm. All have beautiful looking produce with no chemicals added. On my visit
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there were radish, zucchini, squash, greens and more.
There are many other vendors at this market including those making pasta, pizza, soups, beverages and plenty of baked goods many of which offer gluten free options. I will be sharing in an upcoming articles about how some of these went from Farmers Market vendors to owning brick and mortar’s and those that had a shop first and now also sell at the farmers markets.
Market tip of the week: Purchase in season produce from local farmers. Keep meals light in the warm months. Try my recipe below. It is a summertime favorite that uses produce you
can find at your local farmers markets right now.
Ingredients
● 1 pint cherry tomatoes
● 4 zucchini
● 2 tablespoons olive oil, for sauté and tomatoes
● pinch salt
● pinch pepper
● Arugula (garnish)
Procedure: Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Slice tomatoes in half. Add to a bowl
and toss in oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. l ay on a sheet pan cut side down. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden and will wrinkle a bit.
Procedure: Zucchini
For the zucchini you can use either a mandolin or a wide peeler works as well. Slice the zucchini lengthwise. Once sliced heat about 1 tablespoon olive oil in sauté pan and lightly sauté zucchini until slightly tender. Add the roasted cherry tomatoes to warm then toss in a large bowl with the pesto. you can also top with fresh arugula from The Potato Homestead’s which is so good.
Pesto
Ingredients
● 3 bunches of basil and spinach (using another green like spinach adds nutrients like vitamin C)
● 1 cup of parsley
● ¼ cup olive oil (use as needed sometimes less sometimes more depending on the greens)
● 2 tablespoons pine nuts or nut of choice ( I often will use walnuts if pine nuts are too costly)
● 2 -3 cloves of garlic
● pinch salt
● pinch pepper
Procedure
In a food processor add herbs, (basil, spinach, parsley) nuts, garlic and blend adding olive oil in steady stream until desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper. yield: 4 Servings: 1 zucchini per person for meal
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.
By Bruce Klauber
Atlantic City has long been one of the country’s major entertainment centers, so it’s only natural that the iconic resort would play host to a television program focused on visiting celebrities.
Two legendary broadcast/media figures realized the singular opportunities that Atlantic City presented for such programming, and produced and hosted innovative and entertaining television programs that did just that. One show featured the stars; on the other program, the venue itself was the star.
“Curtain Call,” hosted by the late David Spatz, beloved columnist and entertainment reporter who passed away in January of 2023, was one of
the programs that took advantage of the big names Atlantic City had to offer.
A touching tribute to Spatz, written by columnist/broadcaster Scott Cronick, and published in these pages last February, Cronick, noted that Spatz’s “terrific interview series, ‘Curtain Call with David Spatz,’ ran for more than 200 episodes, was syndicated in 82 cities in North America and was the first and only program produced out of Atlantic City to win an Emmy Award.”
In a post on Spatz’ blog, which went by the same name as his TV show, he described the beginnings and the evolution of the show and described how his TV career began turning around in 1991.
“Merv Griffin, who owned Resorts Casino Hotel, asked me to be the roving reporter on his live and nationally televised New year’s Eve special; and I began working with Jake Glassey, Jr. We didn’t become a production team until 1992, when, at the urging of Merv, we produced and aired ‘The David Spatz Show,’ a series of casual conversations and unguarded mo -
ments with popular performers.
“First we taped my old friend Ann-Margret, then followed it up with a sit-down by a real stand-up guy, Jay leno, who was celebrating his first anniversary as Johnny Carson’s replacement as host of ‘The Tonight Show.’ Two years later, we syndicated the show nationally and changed the name to ‘Backstage Pass.’ We were on the air for five years in almost 90 markets.”
In 2003, Spatz and Glassey revived the idea. It was first sold to an NBC affiliate in Spokane, Wash., and later Atlantic City’s WMGM, where it began airing on Saturday nights in 2005.
“Two years later,” Spatz remembered, “all those years of hard work paid off. ‘Curtain Call’ won an Emmy Award for outstanding interview/ discussion series.”
Spatz got his big break in television from Merv Griffin, former owner of Resorts, when he was asked to be a roving reporter for Griffin’s New Year’s Eve special.
A look at the list of “Curtain Call” celebrity guests through the years is astounding. That list includes The Beach Boys, Jim Belushi, Tony Bennett, lewis Black, Carol Burnett, James Brown, George Clooney, Bill Cosby, Art Garfunkel, l arry King, Eartha Kitt, Don Knotts, Barbara Eden, Darlene love, Shirley Maclaine, l iza Minnelli, Willie Nelson, Bob Newhart, Anthony Newley, luciano Pavorotti, Regis Philbin, Joan Rivers, Brooke Shields, Ronnie Spector, Sylvester Stallone, Mel Torme’, and Frank Sinatra, Jr. looking at this list and the history of the program and its host, one thing becomes clear: If you performed in Atlantic City, you had to appear on David Spatz’s program.
Ed Hurst
u nlike Spatz, Ed Hurst did not make a name for himself as a newspaper columnist. Hurst, along with his longtime partner, Joe Grady, and later as a solo broadcaster, came out of radio. An Atlantic City native, Hurst’s radio career began in 1943 at Atlantic City’s WFPG radio. He made his name via his tenure in Philadelphia at WPEN radio, but transitioned to Philadelphia television as early as 1952. He was an influential and well-liked broadcaster, and his ratings, on radio and television, were consistently impressive.
In 1958, Hurst began “Summertime on the Pier,” broadcast live from the Steel Pier’s Marine Ballroom for two hours weekly during the summer months.
The format was simple: It was a teenage dance program that also
featured segments with special guests. The show was broadcast on Philadelphia’s WRCV television. The television signal was so strong that “Summertime on the Pier” had devoted viewers as far away as Maryland.
There was no show in 1959, but it returned in a big way in 1960. It moved to WCAu television in 1966 and in the following year, to WPH l television, where it was syndicated to New york, Boston, Cincinnati, Washington, Boston, Atlanta, and Washington. In 1970, it was broadcast on WPVI television and renamed “The Steel Pier Show,” where it lasted until 1978. Special guest co-hosts through the years included television personality Jim O’Brien, and Jerry Blavat.
The program could be incongruous at times. Hurst was no youngster, and seeing him on-screen and interviewing contemporary rockers who were appearing at the Pier was always interesting. But, ever the good-natured pro, he always pulled it off.
The actual production of the show could be challenging. Originating from the Pier’s Marine Ballroom, the producers had to take into account that the act performing in the ballroom, usually a big band like the Glenn Miller ghost band conducted by Buddy DeFranco, always had to play a Saturday and Sunday afternoon matinee, which was just after the actual, live broad -
In 1958 Ed Hurst began hosting ‘Summertime on the Pier!’
cast time of “Summertime on the Pier.” That meant that the dance floor, populated by hundreds of teens who were too young to dance at Memories in Margate, had to be cleared before the big band came on. That could sometimes be difficult, and depending on who the big band was, some of the teens would stay, though many would leave. I was there when they stayed for Gene Krupa and left when Glenn Miller’s band was setting up.
The treasure trove of material
broadcast live from the Pier through the years would be priceless, had it been saved. Sadly, nothing exists from the 1960s shows, and that was something that always disappointed Ed Hurst.
“Who knew?” was the only thing Hurst could say when I asked him about the whereabouts of vintage broadcasts of Ellington, Count Basie, Maynard Ferguson and the like.
Ed Hurst continued broadcasting until he was about 90 years old. He ended his career here in Atlantic City on WPG radio, the station where he started in 1943. This broadcasting legend passed away in 2020 at the age of 94.
While there were other Atlantic City media personalities who briefly tried their hand at television, including columnists Pinky Kravitz and Sonny Schwartz, none of these programs made it beyond local cable and certainly none had the impact of “Curtain Call” or “Summertime at the Pier.”
Bruce Klauber is the author of four books, an award-winning music journalist, concert and record producer and publicist, producer of the Warner Brothers and Hudson Music "Jazz Legends" film series, and performs both as a drummer and vocalist.
Over 14,000 plastic surgery cases performed, with over 25 years of experience A worldwide international lecturer, innovator, teacher, and surgeon specializing in advanced facial and body rejuvenation with natural-looking results you can be proud of!
By Sarah Fertsch
Holidays are special for many reasons, but for foodies like me, refreshments matter. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or beach day, here are four recipes to spice up your Independence Day:
1. Flag Fruit Pizza Ingredients:
● One roll of Pilsbury Sugar Cookie
Dough
● One pint of Blueberries
● One pint of Strawberries
● One container of Vanilla Frosting
● One container of Whipped Cream
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Roll the cookie dough into a 8 by 12 inch rectangle on a nonstick baking sheet. Bake for seven minutes until golden. let the base cool down for 30 minutes before adding toppings. After 30 minutes, spread a thin layer of vanilla frosting over the base. Wash and cut strawberries in half (so they lay flat). Wash blueberries. Decorate your flag pizza with rows of alternating strawberries and whipped cream, and place blueberries in a
square in the top left corner. Place in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy!
2. Red, White and Blue Sangria
Ingredients:
● 1 cup of berry-flavored vodka
● ½ cup of simple syrup
● 1 cup of chopped strawberries
● 1 cup of blueberries
● ½ cup of freshly-squeezed lemon juice
● 1 bottle of white wine
● ½ liter of tonic water
Wash berries and chop as needed. Combine white wine, vodka, lemon juice and tonic water. Stir in simple syrup. Add berries and serve over ice.
So refreshing!
3. Independence Day Cheese Board
Ingredients:
● 1 round of soft cheese, like brie
● 1 block of hard cheese, like cheddar or manchego
● 1 log of cured meat, such as salami
● 1 block of blue cheese
● 1 container of crackers of your choice
● Homemade or store-bought bruschetta
● 1 container of blueberries
● 1 bag of red grapes
Wash berries and grapes. Cut cheese and meat to your preference,
and place ingredients on board. Serve chilled.
4. Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob Ingredients:
● 3 pounds of corn, shucked
● ½ cup of feta
● ½ cup of shredded parmesan
● 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
● 2 teaspoons of salt
● 1 teaspoon of pepper
● Chopped parsley or cilantro
● 1 cup of melted butter
Prep grill and shuck corn as needed. Place corn on the grill and rotate every 5 minutes. Remove corn after 20 minutes. Combine spices and chop herbs. Once corn is removed from the grill, pour butter evenly over the cob, then sprinkle spices, herbs, and cheese.
Serve immediately. Delicious!
By David Weinberg
Six one-hundredths of a second. A blink of an eye, a snap of the fingers, a sneeze.
That’s all that prevented Pleasantville High School graduate Nia Ali from earning a spot on the united States Olympic Track and Field team Sunday night.
Ali, a 35-year-old mother of three, ran the 100-meter hurdles in a blistering 12.37 seconds at the u.S. Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon.
That’s incredibly fast. yet, it wasn’t quite fast enough to merit a trip to Paris next month.
Masai Russell won the race, setting a u.S. Olympic Trials record at 12.25 seconds. Alaysha Johnson and Grace Stark were both timed in 12.31. Ali crossed the line a tiny fraction of a second later.
The top three finishers in the event
made the Olympic Team. Ali finished fourth.
“4th …” Ali wrote on the Twitter X platform after the race. “Damn.”
Ali was attempting to make the Olympic team for the second time in her career after earning the bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro. The 2006 Pleasantville grad followed that by winning gold at the World Championships in Qatar in 2019.
Amazingly, she won the bronze medal in 2016 just 15 months after giving birth to her oldest son, Titus.
She had her second child, a daughter, in 2018 and skipped the 2021 Olympic Trials to have her third child before resuming her track career last year.
Her experience showed in this week’s Olympic Trials.
Because of scratches, all 27 competitors in Friday’s heats automatically advanced to Saturday’s semifinals. Realizing this, Ali shrewdly jogged through her first race in 20.38 seconds.
u nfortunately, she came up one six-hundredths of a second short.
l ocal promoter l arry Goldberg of Boxing Insider Promotions is scheduled to hold his second show at Tropicana Atlantic City on July 26. Atlantic City middleweight Justin Figueroa (9-0, 7 KOs) and Smithville heavyweight Bruce Seldon Jr. (1-0, 1 KO) are expected to be on the card.
“This is what happens when you’re a veteran and you’re 35, and (you know) everybody’s going through (to the next round),” NBC commentator Ato Bolden said. “’Why am I bothering to expend any energy in the first run?’ That was a brilliant move. Nia Ali showing the kids what they should have done.”
Ali was once one of those kids. She grew up in the Germantown section of Philadelphia before moving to Pleasantville for her senior year of high school.
After competing for the Greyhounds, she was a standout in the heptathlon and hurdles for the university of Tennessee and university of Southern California before concentrating on the hurdles at the Olympic level.
In the last few years, she’s balanced training and competing with being a mom and wife and has maintained her status as one of the world’s best hurdlers.
She proved she’s still an elite hurdler on Sunday, running the third-fastest time of her career.
Figueroa, a Holy Spirit High School graduate and former Atlantic City lifeguard, is coming off a fourth-round TKO over Antoni Armas at Tropicana on May 11. Seldon, an Absegami High School grad, registered a first-round knockout over Vineland’s Terrick Maven in his pro debut at Bally’s on June 15.
“It was a great feeling to get that first fight under my belt,” Seldon said. “I was nervous at first, absolutely. It was my first time fighting in front of my friends and family. Now I just want to take this as far as I can go.”
Seldon is trained by Pleasantville’s Julio Sanchez, a retired member of the Pleasantville Fire Departent who restarted the boxing program at the Pleasantville Rec Center.
He’s quickly gaining a solid reputation as a trainer. Seldon is one of his most promising prospects.
“I give Bruce an A-plus for that fight,” Sanchez said. “I was a little worried that he might get too excited and that I would have to calm him down, but he was focused the whole time and did exactly what I asked him to do.”
By Chloe Cramutola
hiking trails and observation towers equipped with spotting scopes to view at least 360 species of birds. Envision an 8-mile, unpaved road to drive through and bask in the flora and fauna.
This is the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Protecting more than 47,000 acres of South Jersey’s coastal habitats and woodlands, the refuge is actively managed for migratory birds, as it is a critical link
during the seasonal bird migration.
The u.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conserves and monitors plants and wildlife, restoring and managing habitats and allowing the public to enjoy outdoor recreation. With that being said, the refuge offers a variety of activities for visitors. Whether it’s hiking, fishing or simply taking in the scenery, there is something for everyone.
The Wildlife Drive self-guided auto tour
Known as a birding “hot spot,” species of waterfowl, shorebirds and seabirds can be found along this 8-mile-long Wildlife Drive. Protected sites along the coastline support beach-nesting birds such as the American oystercatcher, least tern, black skimmer and common tern.
This tour will take visitors through the saltwater marsh, freshwater habitat and upland forest. There are observation towers located at Gull Pond and Turtle Cove.
Eight miles of hiking trails
Enjoy the greenery and wildlife through three accessible trails: The Akers Woodland Trail and leeds EcoTrail in Galloway Township, or the Cedar Bonnet Island Trail in Stafford Township. At Cedar Bonnet Island, visitors can bike and hike on permitted gravel trails only.
Fishing
The refuge offers the opportunity to fish in both freshwater and saltwater.
lily l ake and Middle Branch offer freshwater fishing opportunities. There is also a boat ramp at Scotts landing in Galloway for multiple saltwater fishing opportunities.
Note that fishing is not permitted from land anywhere along Wildlife Drive.
Hunting
Opportunities for hunting deer, migratory birds, squirrels and turkeys are available at Forsythe. The refuge’s website provides information about the deer hunt lottery and an interactive map to find a favorite hunting spot. Visitors can download maps for access, parking and refuge hunting information.
A $25 hunting permit is required to hunt on the refuge, in addition to required state and federal permits, stamps and licenses. One annual permit allows for hunting during all seasons.
Enjoy with a friend: Dog walking Refuge visitors may enjoy the summer breeze with their dogs as long as pets are attached to a leash and the pet walker is in control at all times.
Pet walking is allowed on the following trails: Wildlife Drive, Bristow Trail, Jen’s Trail, Grassland Trail, deCamp Wildlife Trail, Cedar Bonnet Island Trail and Eno’s Pond Trail.
Pet walking is not permitted on the following trails: Akers Woodland Trail, leeds Eco-trail
Barnegat Overlook and Graveling Point Trail. No pets are permitted on
Holgate Beach at any time during the year.
Boating, including kayaking and canoeing
Forsythe offers opportunities for both motorized and non-motorized boats.
Motorized boats can embark at the Scotts landing boat ramp, while non-motorized boats (canoes or kayaks) can set off at the lily lake Kayak launch.
Be creative with painting, drawing and photography
Not only is painting and sketching in nature possible at all of the refuge’s open sites, it is encouraged. Sometimes, sites will host public displays of artworks created on the
refuge – a sign to grab the brush or sketchpad, lay in the grass and soak in the scenery.
Whether a visitor is touring through the Wildlife Drive or hiking trails, photography is welcome. Capture the wetlands, woodlands and open marsh. Snap a perfect shot of a sandpiper spreading its wings or a cricket frog hopping in the grass.
Grab a basket and plan a picnic
Plan a day with the family and make some sandwiches. There are a few picnic areas located across the refuge, including one at Refuge Headquarters near the Visitor Information Center. There are two other picnic areas along Cedar Bonnet Island Trail.
Visitor information
Trails and Wildlife Drive are open daily, sunrise to sunset. Entrance to Wildlife Drive is $4 per car. The Visitor Information Center is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. More information can be found on the refuge’s official website.
By Chloe Cramutola
Historic Smithville in Galloway is sure to bring nostalgia, whether it’s from the smell of coffee beans in Cook’s Corner, the carousel, the gazebo or Scoop’s Place in the pink building across the bridge.
From snowy winters to scorching summer days, it’s no surprise this little village has taken so many visitors back in time throughout all seasons. Over 50 specialty shops line the town, ranging from The Colonial Inn “Welcoming the Weary Traveler” to the Toy Market and the Christmas Shoppe offering classic wooden toys and an array of unique ornaments.
“We have people who take their pictures one day in front of the Christmas Shoppe in the same window that’s still there. And now they take their kids’ pictures there. How great is that?” said Fran Coppola, one of four owners of Smithville and the owner of the Christmas Shoppe, the Candle Shoppe and the Sweet Shoppe.
She and her husband, Tony Coppola, along with co-owners l aura
and Charles Bushar, bought the village in 1997. Fran Coppola owned her three shops first. As both a landlord and a tenant, she understands the other shop owners and all that transpires in the town.
“It’s not like I’m home baking cookies,” said Coppola. “No, I’m right down here in the ditches. And I think that’s helpful.”
Stores like l a Petite Boutique, Trendie Treasures and the Smithville Barber Shoppe invite
Following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father before him, Cole Perfetti is keeping the family’s entrepreneurial spirit alive by opening his own new business, Surf Road Coffee Bar & Beach Bowls, in Historic Smithville.
customers to polish up on fashion. la Petite Boutique features children’s clothes. The town’s barbershop is all about the men and “old fashioned attention to customer service,” according to Historic Smithville’s website.
“It’s great being a part of [the village] and keeping something alive,” said Coppola.
Amanda Silano, a school teacher, said she had been coming to Smithville her whole life.
“I love so much about it. The little shops, the coziness of it,” said Silano. “And the food is always good… It’s just a great place to walk around, enjoy the day and find things you can’t find anywhere else.”
With over six eateries, the smell of pastries, pizza or ice cream is sure to lure customers through the door.
Fred and Ethel’s l antern light Tavern is Smithville’s own bar and grill, and it offers homemade soups and salads, beer and wine, live music and the well-known Jersey Devil Burger. Smithville Bakery serves fresh-baked goods like Pig’s Ear pastries and mixed berry crumb pie, as well as a full breakfast menu including omelets and a cinnamon raisin French toast.
Anyone looking for iced coffee, smoothies and acai bowls can head to the new Surf Road Coffee Bar and Beach Bowls, which opened in early June. The owners, the Perfettis, have
contributed to the Smithville community for three generations. Sons of the iconic Cook’s Corner coffee roaster Adam Perfetti, Alex and Cole Perfetti are looking to bring something fresh to the village.
“We want to create a good atmosphere for people in the area,” said Alex Perfetti, co-owner and Stockton university computer science graduate.
The brothers’ grandfather started coffee roasting with their father, and from then on it has been a lineage of coffee and cozy corners at Smithville.
“To keep the flow of coffee going throughout Historic Smithville, my dad continues to roast for Surf Road,” said Cole Perfetti, co-owner and Atlantic Cape Community College culinary arts graduate.
While Alex Perfetti elevates the business with one hand in programming, problem-solving and systems design, he has had another hand in the food industry for twelve years. His brother adds to that with his culinary experience, as he created the menu and handles hospitality and sanitation.
“We can talk about menus, but the most important thing is making sure everything is clean,” said Cole Perfetti. “That’s one thing that is railed in culinary school: cleanliness. When opening up and getting everything going, that was a really important establishment to make.”
The Perfettis plan to invite artists for live music, increase outreach to Stockton students, and run Surf Road Cares, a charity for children affected by alcoholism and addiction in their families.
“I have a five-year plan of where I want to be. The support we’ve gotten so far, it’s been very good,” said Alex Perfetti. “I really want to create something nice. And I think I can do that.”
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By Tammy Thornton
Hot summer days and drooping plants may have you considering a garden of cacti and tumbleweeds. However, by carefully selecting drought-resistant plants, you may save yourself from desert life.
In general, once well-established, perennials have deeper roots than vegetables and annuals, making them more resistant to occasional drought. These relatively deep roots will allow your perennial plants to tap into underground moisture. In times of drought, perennials may take a little siesta and go into survival mode by slowing their growth. Once they receive a nice rain or good watering, they should bounce back but may not
reflower until the following season. Annuals, on the other hand, will “bolt” and start going to seed to preserve their legacy for a new generation. However, even among perennials, some are much more tolerant of extreme drought than others.
If you picture a beautiful Mediterranean garden, you can imagine some of the obvious plants that can handle prolonged dry spells and heat. lavender, rosemary, and Russian sage are must-haves for this type of garden. In fact, not only can these plants tolerate dry periods, they will rot and die if overwatered. When choosing a location for these types of plants in your garden, consider the entire year and not just summer. you will want to make sure that they are well-drained and not receiving the daily watering from a sprinkler. While our sandy South Jersey soil will provide drainage, a layer of rocks or gravel can also aid in drainage, especially if planting in
pots. If you are making a container garden, make sure the pots have plenty of holes in the bottom. Keep in mind that plants grown in pots are also more susceptible to freezing temperatures. They may need extra protection in the winter.
Some other drought-tolerant
perennial plants to consider are catmint (Nepeta), sedum, purple coneflower (Echinacea), black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia), blanket flower (Gaillardia), pinks (Dianthus), crocosmia (lucifer), salvia, sea holly, asters, Oriental poppy, verbena (Bonariensis) and yarrow. While perennials are the staples of the garden and generally more drought-resistant as stated, some annuals can also take the heat. Zinnia, lantana, celosia, vinca, dusty miller, and portulaca (moss rose) can stand up to the heat and bring life to a bare spot in the garden.
In addition to using drought-tolerant plants, consider ways to protect your plants against dry spells. Mulch around your plants to help them conserve moisture. A mistake many newbie gardeners make is giving their plants a frequent, shallow shower instead of a deep soaking. These well-intentioned gardeners then wonder why their plants are dried out.
Shallow watering will result in shallow roots, but deep watering will aid your plants in growing deep roots that can handle periods of drought. Healthier plants will be more equipped to handle stress such as short, dry periods, as well as attacks from insects or infections. Water your plants early in the morning so they have time to absorb the water before the afternoon sun wastes your efforts. Also, keep in mind that windy days will dry out your plants. Recently, we had a rare day when it was windy and hot, and you could visibly see the plants begging for water. If your plants do suffer damage, prune away dried-out stems and leaves, or the damaged parts will draw energy away from the healthier parts of the plant.
When shopping for drought-resistant plants, you can look for some tell-tell signs to identify them. Succulents and cactus-like plants will have thick, fleshy stems and leaves. Similar to camels, these plants store water for times of drought. like the other
plants mentioned in our Mediterranean group, succulents must be well-drained and should never be overwatered. Other signs of drought resistance are plants with a waxy coating on their leaves, hairy leaves, silvery gray or bluish foliage, narrow leaves, and prickly leaves. Of course, even drought-tolerant plants must be well-watered until their roots are established. When first planted, the roots will be shallow, and they will be more susceptible to drought and other stresses. Often when transplanting your friends to a new home, they will go into a bit of shock and need to be reassured that you are giving them a comfortable, happy place to live. However, most plants do not like to have their “feet” wet. Though you need to make sure your plants are receiving an adequate amount of water, the key is to also make sure that they are well-drained. location can also be key to helping your plants withstand the relentless sun. Flowers that enjoy full sun during the year may suffer during the peak of summer. Moving them to an area of the garden that receives a reprieve during the height of the afternoon may be the trick to protecting these plants. Consider relocating them to a partial shade area that receives early morning or late afternoon sun, but has a bit of shade at noon.
We love to hear from our readers. What are your favorite heat-loving plants in the garden? Kindly send your comments and questions to shorelocalgardener@gmail.com.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
Town Square Entertainment has brought great entertainment to the Jersey Shore. It has invested millions of dollars renovating several buildings into fine theaters in Stone Harbor (Harbor Square), Ventnor (Ventnor Square), Rio Grande (Cape Entertainment), Northfield (Tilton Square) and now at the historic Moorlyn Theater building on the Ocean City Boardwalk.
Partners Clinton Bunting, Scot P. Kaufman, Scot M. Kaufman and Brett DeNaf have a vision to provide great venues that provide quality entertainment for people year-round. Their latest venue will be the Moorlyn Theater which is located on Moorlyn Terrace
and the Boardwalk. Closed since 2016, it’s scheduled to reopen in mid-July 2024 after major renovations.
It was originally built in the early 1900s, but a leaking roof and the fact that it has been closed for an extended period of time really took a toll.
The partners bought the building in 2022 and invested a substantial amount of money and time rejuvenating the building, bringing it back to the feel of yesterday. They will be making quite a splash with four stateof-the-art, comfortable theaters which will assure a great experience for all ages.
The Moorlyn Square theater will be different from Stone Harbor, Ventnor and Rio Grande as it will not have alcoholic beverages due to the city's restrictions against selling alcohol.
The Harbor Square Theater in Stone Harbor was their first entertainment center. It is truly a must see featuring four silver screens along with a burger bar, craft beers, wine and more. It is a whole new experience for a family night out. They also provide live entertainment shows. you will notice it while you
are approaching the vintage neon sign hanging over the marquee designed to emulate something from the 1940s.
The Square partners bought the Ventnor Square in August 2018. After years of unexpected setbacks due to structural issues and a pandemic shutdown, the partners were able to see their dream come alive.
Their arduous restoration became a masterpiece reminiscent of the golden age of Hollywood. It is complemented by the ever-popular Nucky’s Speakeasy Bar. The popularity and community support have been beyond any expectation.
dining area which includes a bar. Kids and adults alike can spend hours of fun in the arcade with all of its very cool neon lights and fixtures.
The Town Square Entertainment Partners look forward to a great
Tilton Square followed Ventnor where the partners took a tired theater and totally gutted it. They created another masterpiece which features an IMAX theater to complement the other theaters. Just like all of the other venues, the attention to detail is evident everywhere. The only drawback is that the reclining seats are so comfortable that it’s tempting to doze off.
I personally think the icing on the cake and the gem of all of the entertainment centers is Cape Square Entertainment. It is an experience like no other in New Jersey.
located in Rio Grande just minutes off the Garden State Parkway, you will enjoy hours of fun with not only a movie theater; it also features a brand-new bowling alley, and a casual
summer. The Jersey Shore thanks the Town Square Entertainment Partners for giving us such fun venues. Please take the time to visit each of their locations. Each one has a different theme that won’t disappoint you.
Remember. Stop, stay and play at the Jersey Shore.
By Lisa Zaslow Segelman
Yes, I am among those folks who thought for too long that orzo was rice, even with its Italian name. It’s an understandable mistake as orzo has the size, shape and appearance of one of the world’s staple foods, the humble grain of rice.
Orzo is in fact a rice-shaped pasta that finds its way into side dishes and salads with increasing regularity. The pasta originated in Italy but has become a part of other cuisines, especially Mediterranean cooking. It’s also known as “rossini” and is used in Italian wedding soup). Orzo means barley in Italian as the pasta looks like a grain of barley.
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ing, it can be assembled the night before or morning of your dinner or barbecue. As a member of the Beach Bum Cooking Club, you’ll get to the beach on time.
World’s Greatest Orzo Salad
Prep time: 40 minutes
Serves 12
Serve in a nice flat bowl that shows off the spectacular ingredients
● 3 cups dry orzo pasta
● 3 T red wine vinegar
● 3 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice
you’ll find the traditional Greek dish “Giouvetsi”, a lamb and tomato sauce dish made with orzo and paella and other Basque dishes (northern Spain) substitute orzo for rice in pilafs and casseroles.
Back here at the shore, it’s worth noting that orzo partners nicely with summer flavors like mint, asparagus and lemon.
Through the many barbecues and dinners for a crowd that are part of shore life, I’ve gotten good at knowing what dishes will become requested favorites. Then there’s the recipe ask. The truly spectacular ones result in people asking for a text, email or link that includes the recipe. And surprisingly enough, the request is often from non-cooks who don’t cook but are good eaters with excellent palates!
“The Orzo Salad” is one of those dishes. It includes an array of fresh vegetables, hearty textures, and flavor-packed additions. Dressed with easy, homemade Greek salad dress-
● 1 tsp oregano
● 1 tsp garlic salt
● 1 tsp salt
● 4 Persian cucumbers cut in half vertically and sliced ¼ inch thick
● 4 cups red and/or yellow cherry tomatoes
● 2 cups canned or cooked drained and rinsed chickpeas
● 1 cup sliced red onions 11.5 cups Kalamata olives, pitted
● 2 cups fresh basil and/or mint- try growing some in your garden: easy!
1. Prepare the orzo according to package directions. Drain in a colander and drizzle with some olive oil. Mix in and spread on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. This is a good trick to keep the pasta from sticking as it cools.
2. While you’re waiting for the
pasta to cool, prepare the Greek salad dressing.
3. Place salad ingredients in a large bowl. Toss cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, red onion, olives, chickpeas with the cooled orzo. Add the lemon juice, vinegar and spices, salt and pepper plus ½ the fresh herbs.
4. Just before serving, mix well, taste and add in additional dressing or pinch of recipe spices as needed. Watch this salad disappear. Keeps well for 3-4 days. Guests may request a container of orzo salad to go.
Greek Salad
Dressing
● makes 1 ½ cups
● 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
● ½ cup red wine vinegar
● 4 minced garlic cloves
● 2 tsp dried oregano
● 1 tsp dried basil
● 1 tsp Dijon mustard
● 1 tsp kosher sea salt
to taste, or serve the extra alongside the salad.
● Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Method:
Whisk olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, basil, mustard, salt and pepper in a medium-sized bowl. Pour ¾ cup over the orzo salad, adding more
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
and Everyday This Holiday
By Marjorie Preston
This week’s lineup includes a heart-thumping cold-case mystery; a comic take on a Shakespearean tragedy; a great new entry in women’s fiction; the newest thriller from Fern Michaels; and an inside look at those wacky royals. See you on the beach!
Good Half Gone
By Tarryn Fisher HarperCollins Teenage twins
Piper and Iris couldn’t be more different. Piper is a natural leader, the pretty one who has to fend off all the boys. Iris is the fifth wheel, envious of her
sister’s beauty and popularity. Abandoned by their mother and living with their grandmother, each girl is trying to navigate the difficult passage from girlhood to adulthood. But one of them won’t make it.
On a weekend movie trip, as Iris looks on, three men force Piper into a car and speed off. Police dismiss the incident as a runaway, and Iris becomes obsessed with solving the crime. Over the years, as she and Gran raise Piper’s young son, she conducts an investigation of her own, while badgering law enforcement to stay on the case.
At last, Iris finds evidence that one of the culprits is at a psychiatric hospital on an island off the coast of Washington, and wrangles a job there. In this strange otherworld, full of troubled patients and hardened staffers, she finds an ally in a brilliant, compassionate doctor.
Will Iris solve the mystery? Will she end up with the good
doctor? This nail-biting thriller has a literal bombshell ending.
of Fair Verona
By Christina Dodd Kensington
Despite what you’ve heard, Romeo and Juliet did not die.
Sure, Romeo downed all that poison. But then he threw it all up. And his young bride? She only nicked herself with that dagger.
History’s most famous lovers recovered, went on to raise seven kids, became respectable citizens of Verona, and lived happily ever after— almost.
The Montagues are mortified that their eldest daughter, Rosaline, is still unwed at the creaky age of 20. So they arrange a marriage to powerful Duke Stephano, who has lost three other young wives under mysterious circumstances
Rebellious Rosie thinks love is melodramatic idiocy (and who can blame her, with those parents?). She doesn’t want to marry the duke or
anyone—until she meets lysander, a young swain who wins her with a single glance.
Told from Rosie’s point of view, “A Daughter of Fair Verona” has all the florid drama of the Bard, plus the nudge-wink antics of a “Saturday Night live” skit.
The Summer Book Club
By Susan Mallery Canary Street Press
For a group of book-club members in California, finding romance is pure fiction.
Each of the women is going it alone in life: Paris, whose past traumas and hot temper drove off the man she loved; l aurel, whose husband’s abandonment left her and their daughters chronically mistrustful of men; and Cassie, whose personal weakness is rescuing jerky guys who then dump her.
Over the course of the summer, the women revisit the great romance novels of the past. Inspired by heroines who risked all for love, they find themselves attracting men who are not only not-jerks (yay!), but handsome, available, and caring (jackpot!). Could this be the happy ending the friends have been hoping for?
“The Summer Book Club” is a lighter-than-air fairytale—fun, engaging, and perfect for your summer reading list.
The Wild Side
By Fern Michaels Kensington
Melanie Drake leads a double life— make that a triple or quadruple life.
As an undercover agent for the
federal Office of Special Investigations, she once spent her days cracking heads and capturing serial killers. Then she did an about-face, becoming a school guidance counselor outside Washington, D.C., and living quietly with two retired service dogs.
Melanie’s new sedate life is turned upside down when her former boss asks her to take one more assignment: infiltrating a group of crooked billionaires and money launderers. It’s an offer Melanie can’t refuse, and she goes deep undercover as a high-priced call girl, in multiple disguises under multiple assumed names. Will she foil the bad guys in time for the school Christmas pageant?
By Alexander Larman
St. Martin’s Press
“Power and Glory” takes an unvarnished look at the British royal family over a 20-year span that started with the abdication of Edward VIII; continued through the Second World War; and concluded with death of King George VI and the coronation of his daughter, Elizabeth.
“The Wild Side” is divided into three acts: Melanie’s childhood, her career in covert ops, and her post-OSI stint as guidance-counselor-slash-crime buster. While the plot strains credulity at times, and Part III wraps up a bit too suddenly and neatly, Melanie is a likeable character, and time spent with her isn’t wasted.
While it’s Elizabeth and her father on the cover, this book focuses mainly on the Duke of Windsor, a Nazi sympathizer who spent less than a year on the throne before walking away for the woman he loved, American divorcee Wallis Simpson. The duke comes across as a spiteful man who shirked his duty, then idled his way around the world, grasping for ways to make money, and complaining that his estranged family wouldn’t support him.
After his niece became queen, he even angled to be appointed regent, a gambit that basically would have reclaimed the power he had surrendered. When that didn’t happen, he rejected his family as “vultures” and a “seedy, worn-out bunch of old
hags.” (Maybe it sounds better with the accent.)
This down-and-dishy view of castle life also includes a warm portrait of Elizabeth, from sheltered girl to model princess to monarch, and recalls her strong bonds of affection with Churchill, her first prime minister. I loved every page.
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.
JULY 4
North Wildwood Pooch Parade & Live Music in Downtown Wildwood & Wildwood Crest & Fireworks
JULY 5 - 7
Sports Card, Toys, Comics & Collectibles July Show
JULY 12 - 14
NJ State BBQ Championship & Anglesea Blues Festival
JULY 12 -14
New Jersey Jeep Invasion
JULY 19 - 21
New Jersey Bronco Invasion
JULY 27
Foam N Glow
JULY 27 - 28
Ultimate Beach Frisbee Tournament
JULY 31
Wildwoods Baby Parade
AUGUST 1 - 12
Back to School Warehouse Clothing Sale
AUGUST 9 - 11 Tattoo Beach Bash
AUGUST 9-11 & 16-18
Wildwood Baseball on the Beach
AUGUST 25 - 29
Wildwoods Restaurant Week
FRIDAY NIGHTS
JUNE 28 - AUGUST 30 Friday Night Fireworks
SATURDAY MORNINGS TO AUGUST 31
Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market
By William Kelly
When my family first started renting seasonally on Moorlyn Terrace in Ocean City, one day I went for a walk around the block and discovered a house for sale on Wesley Avenue. I insisted that my parents check it out and shortly thereafter, my father made the arrangements to buy 819 Wesley for a
nominal $16,500. The previous owner was an old woman named Somers who worked at Copper Kettle Fudge on the Boardwalk.
At first it was just a seasonal vacation home, but eventually it became our permanent residence. We were there, in an historic part of town, for nearly 40 years.
I soon learned that our neighbors were extremely interesting. On one side, old Mrs. Miller lived In a small
cottage with an equally old housekeeper and assistant. She was the widow of the first child born on the island, the son of a lloyd’s of london insurance agent who handled all the shipwrecks on the New Jersey coast.
On the other side, in a much bigger red house, there was Dr. Marcia Smith and her husband, Chris Montagna, an Italian fisherman who struggled to speak English. They seemed to be a mismatched couple.
Originally from Sea Isle City where there is a considerable Italian community, Chris had a small fleet of two or three commercial fishing boats. He eventually moved them to 10th Street on the bay in Ocean City, where he built a restaurant.
Chris’ Restaurant was next to Hogate’s Restaurant. When you drove into Ocean City on the Ninth Street causeway, the first thing you saw was Hogate’s and Chris’, both specializing in seafood. Chris’ seafood was the freshest, as he caught his own that morning, had them filleted right there on the dock, and sent right to the kitchen to be broiled or fried.
Chris was an important employer, hiring fishermen to man his boats, teenagers whom he taught to properly fillet the catch, and cooks, waitresses and busboys for the summer season.
Today most major restaurants, even those located at dockside, must send their catch to Phlly for processing before it is brought back to sell to the public. Back in the ’60s, Chris would catch, fillet and cook his fish within hours of being caught, primarily flounder, weakfish, scallops or whatever was running at the time.
her father reportedly disapproved of their marriage.
The esteemed doctor and the Italian fisherman, who could hardly speak English, were certainly an unlikely couple. He was right out of Hemingway’s “Old Man and the Sea.” She opened her Ocean City practice on the first floor of their house. While you would expect the doctor in the family to be the breadwinner, it was actually Chris who made the money. Dr. Smith enjoyed traveling, especially to the Far East including China and Japan, and was a big supporter of the fledgling state of Israel.
Besides fishing and running his restaurant, Chris also purchased and refurbished two Word War II surplus PT boats which he outfitted for passenger service, one of which was named the Flying Saucer.
Dr. Smith’s college and medical school tuition was paid for by her father, and she became the first female physician in Cape May County, though
Chris himself took the helm of the Flying Saucer, docked next to his fishing boats and restaurant. With twin inboard diesel engines, it roared to life and could really fly. Chris would
take it under the Ninth Street bridge, out the Inlet, past the breakers and go full throttle to the South End, turn around and return, making sure everyone got totally soaked in the spray, which was very comforting in the summer heat.
The Flying Saucer lasted quite awhile, until one day it sprang a leak, luckily while it was docked. Nobody was hurt, though it put an end to the Flying Saucer.
Eventually Chris sold his fleet of fishing boats and his restaurant. That gave him and Dr. Smith a comfortable nest egg. Dr. Smith retired, too, though Chris continued fishing every morning, often taking my brother, leo, along with him. I can still hear him waking us up early in the morning yelling, “ leon!” from under my bedroom window. leo said that Chris always said to “follow the birds – the birds know where the fish are.”
and Boatworks, so he knew his way around boats. When Chris died, Dr. Smith didn’t want him living there anymore so he moved into our house for the winter.
When Dr. Smith moved into a nursing home, they had a house sale where I bought an antique chair, an ivory Mahjong game she must have gotten from the Far East, a scrapbook full of news clippings about her and Chris, and a bust statue of Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the famous missionary, musician and physician whom she apparently admired.
As I often walked to the library, then at Sixth Street and attached to the high school, I passed a small, granite monument that simply read: “Dr. Marcia Smith – Citizen.” From the scrapbook I learned it was a gift from the Israeli ambassador because of her support of early Israel. A few years later, after she had died, I noticed the
Eventually Chris’ eyes started to go because one day he was heading directly into a jetty at full speed, and leo had to warn him to change course. Then leo began to take the helm.
Chris died first, and his funeral was well attended by all the local Ocean City bigwigs, including Mayor Henry Knight, a pharmacist and neighbor, Congressman William Hughes and others. Chris had a handyman, Ron Holtz, who lived in his garage which was heated by a potbelly stove.
Holtz’s family ran Holtz Marina
monument was missing. I drove to the city scrapyard next to the animal shelter and found it among the scraps being recycled.
I went to see Mayor Knight at his pharmacy and told him about the removal of Dr. Smith’s monument, as it seems like each generation doesn’t know or respect those who have come before them. Mayor Knight had the monument replaced, but I don’t know where it is today, or if anyone remembers Dr. Smith and Chris Montagna. But I certainly do. billykelly3@gmail.com
By Steffen Klenk
This summer, the Ocean City Theatre Company is celebrating its 17th season by bringing out the stars. Broadway on the OC Boardwalk is returning to the Music Pier for an
evening that will surely delight audiences of all ages. The show will bring Broadway to life, featuring high quality performances from professional performers, as well as members of OCTC’s Junior Company.
The evening will feature star-studded performances by two OCTC
alumni members who have found their way to the shining lights of the Big Apple, including Broadway’s own Morgan Kirner. A graduate of Absegami High School, Kirner is best known for her appearance in the Tony Award-winning musical "Merrily We Roll Along" and got her start with OCTC starring in their Children’s Theatre Series. She spoke about the moment that gravitated her to the stage. “I really love singing, and I saw my first Broadway show when I was six years old. I was in awe that people could do that for a living.
Morgan Kirner, star of Broadway's "Merrily We Roll Along", will headline the Music Pier stage on July 17.
From an early age, Kirner began taking voice and dance lessons, honing her skills. She became involved in community theatre and was cast for her first role in a production of Annie at eight years old. While attending middle and high school, she continued to follow her creative endeavors, joining Absegami Emanon Players Drama Club, led by instructor Chip
Garrison.
One of the aspects of theater Kirner enjoys the most is the strong sense of community and the ability to tell stories about different periods throughout history. “Theater people are storytellers. They help make sense of the world around them through stories, whether it’s a show that’s fantastical or escapism, or a comment on the time you’re living in; I have always loved theater and continue to.”
Kirner is a graduate of Boston Conservatory where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. She has worked regionally at the Paper Mill Playhouse, Kansas City Starlight, and the national touring production of "Hello, Dolly!" playing the role of Ermengarde.
In addition, the show will also feature the talents of Angel Sigala, who made his Broadway debut as the role of Mateo Diaz in the Tony-nominated musical "New york, New york". Sigala
• 4-Hour Flounder ($495) 7:30AM or 12PM
• 3-Hour Bay Flounder ($425) 7:30AM, 12PM or 5PM
• 2-Hour Cruise ($375) 5PM or 7:15PM
is also featured in the original Broadway cast recording and performed on stage at the 76th Annual Tony Awards.
Sigala was raised outside of Philadelphia and joined the OCTC cast in 2016, playing the role of Chino in "West Side Story". After receiving his graduate in Musical Theatre from Temple university, Sigala performed in the return of Viva Broadway at Curtain up at New york’s Duffy Square.
Kirner and Sigala will be joined on stage by musical theatre performers from OCTC’s 2024 Summer Season, ensuring a delightfully entertaining evening. For those that have a love of theater or want to discover the magic of the stage, Broadway on the Boardwalk is a show you cannot miss. “Theater is more than putting on a show,” Kirner says. “It’s about learning discipline, making friendships, and learning socialization.”
Broadway on the Boardwalk will take place on Wednesday, July 17, at 7:30 p.m. at Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets start at $22 and are available online at www.oceancitytheatre -
company.com. you can also purchase tickets in-person at the OCTC office, located at 1501 West Avenue, on Saturdays from 4 – 6 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., or at the Music Pier Box Office 45 minutes prior to showtime.
The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company has been serving the community for over 17 years with a commitment to bringing quality theater to our local area, under the direction and creative vision of its Founding Artistic Director, Michael Hartman. Additionally, OCTC offers a variety of programs including seasonal summer camps, classes, and one-on-one lessons.
While visiting their website, be sure to check out the entire OCTC summer schedule, including their upcoming Broadway Series production of "Grease", their Junior Company productions of "Anything Goes" and "Seussical Jr.", and their ongoing Children’s Theatre Series. Plus, you can sign up for the newsletter to receive regular email updates on programming and events.
The Ocean City Pops will once again give a pair of free outdoor concerts on July 3 and July 4 to celebrate Independence Day. In 8 p.m. shows at Carey Stadium (just off Boardwalk between Fifth Street and Sixth Street), the Pops will perform patriotic classics and
audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers. The July 4 show will be followed immediately by the holiday fireworks, and Carey Stadium provides a great place to view the display.
At 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 3 , the first of the summer’s Wacky Wednesdays will feature a good old-fashioned apple and cherry pie-eating contest. No hands allowed. The contest is free, and open to all ages, but it will be limited to 150 participants. Wacky Wednesdays invite families and individuals to participate in a series of different contests. They are held at the Ocean City Music Pier (Boardwalk at Moorlyn Terrace) at 10:30 a.m. every week of the summer.
The Fourth of July in Ocean City always starts with a set of family bike parades . Participants are encouraged to dress and decorate their bikes in the spirit of the holiday. The Gardens parade starts at 10 a.m. at the longport Bridge parking lot with registration opening at 9 a.m. The South Ocean City parade starts at 10 a.m. at 40th Street and Asbury Avenue (also with 9 a.m. registration).
The Riviera Neighborhood parade starts at noon at the Rosemar lane Park (with 11 a.m. registration).
A kite-flying competition will start at 7 p.m. July 4 on the beach near the Ocean City Music Pier.
The fireworks begin at 9 p.m. July 4 . The display will be launched from a barge off the Ocean City Music Pier, and it will be best viewed from the beach or Boardwalk between Fifth Street and 14th Street.
Free beach exercise (yoga) classes are underway every Monday from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on the Sixth Street Beach volleyball courts. Free pilates classes take place every Wednesday at the same time and place. Friday classes are low-impact exercise Bring a towel and a friend. For more information, call 609-3986900.
Family Nights on the Boardwalk move this year to Mondays and Wednesdays . Free entertainment will include jugglers, music, characters and more from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. between Eighth Street and 12th Street. The first Family Night of the season will be on Monday, July 8.
Funtastic Tuesdays will bring entertainment, face-painters, balloon-sculptors and more to downtown Asbury Avenue on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting on July 9. Similar family fun will be part of Market Days from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Thursday
Mummers Night will feature string bands strutting the Boardwalk between Sixth Street and 14th Street from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Tuesday starting on July 9. This year, the Mummers will return every Thursday evening during the same hours.
Free guided Beach Walks will feature information on shells, birds, animals and the shore ecosystem at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and 6:30 p.m.
Wednesdays starting July 2. Meet at the entrance to Corson’s Inlet State Park at 59th Street and Central Avenue.
Also coming up soon
JULY 6 – Ocean City Sailing Foundation’s Annual Open House: Free sailboat rides help people experience the fun of sailing and learn about the OCSF’s weekly sailing camps for kids ages 8 to 14. The Open House is 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 6 at the Bayside Center (520 Bay Avenue). Visit ocnjsailingfoundation.org or call 609-418-3356 for more information about camps for kids or private lessons for adults.
JULY 7 – Ocean City Pops Present Greatest Hits: Back by popular demand, Maestro Vince lee will take you on a whirlwind tour of the wide variety of genres that the Ocean City Pops is famous for. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.
By Fred Miller
TOcean City Beach Patrol’s tradition of
ship, OCBP Hall of Famer John B. Kelly Sr. was wearing three Olympic gold medals.
Kelly, competing in Antwerp, Belgium on August 18, 1920, won two Olympic rowing races. He narrowly beat Jack Beresford of Great Britain in the singles sculls, and, partnership with his cousin Paul Costello, easily defeated the Italian crew in the doubles sculls.
guard Augustus Goetz rowed in the pair-oared shell with coxswain in the 1928 Olympic Games in Amsterdam, Holland.
ning
rowing and
has its roots
the Olympic Games. long before the lifeguards won either a Cape May County or South Jersey champion -
Kelly, competing in the 1924 Olympics in Paris, France, won another gold medal in the doubles rowing with Costello.
With the support and encouragement of John B.
-
Four years later, Kelly encouraged Charles Kieffer, a championship rower on the Ocean City Beach Patrol, to compete in the 1932 Olympic Games in los Angeles. He won a gold medal on August 12, 1932. His event—the pair-oared shell with coxswain—had never before been won by an American crew. Kieffer, rowing in the bow, Joseph Schauers, rowing in the stern, and Edward Jennings coxswain, came through with a fine performance to beat Poland by a length and a half.
By Steffen Klenk
On a beautiful Saturday evening, hundreds made their way to Ventnor’s Newport Avenue Beach to enjoy the sounds of Parrotbeach, the Jimmy Buffett tribute band. It is all part of the city’s weekly Summer Beach Jam concert series. Those in attendance can enjoy a full schedule of entertainment all summer long, along with a plethora of food and drink vendors, crafters, and activities for all ages in the most perfect venue.
The Ventnor Summer Beach Jam is one of two weekly concert series held in the city, along with Sunsets at Ski Beach every Wednesday. Visit www.facebook.com/ventnorcityspecialevents for a complete event list and updates on future happenings.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
By Julia Train
Imagine this: It’s a sunny, summer day in Ocean City, not a cloud in the sky. you’re excited and finally all packed up for a day at the beach. you’re going through your checklist mentally, making sure not to forget anything.
“Chairs? Check.”
“Towels? Check.”
“Toys for the kids? Check.”
“ l unch? Shoot. I knew I was forgetting something important.”
Normally, you would make something quickly, but your kids are anxious for the beach. So you decide to get it delivered.
Beach Bucket lunch in Ocean City will bring your lunch to the beach in a bucket.
time, started the company after a conversation with her mother.
“We were talking about how much work it was taking kids to the beach and bringing them lunch, and having to go on and off the beach to get something to eat from one of the different markets,” she said.
During that conversation the two came up with the idea to deliver lunch to beachgoers in a bucket.
Ritter decided to partner with Blitz’s Market, where she’d been going since she was a kid and didn’t have a delivery option.
Eleven years ago, Gretchen Ritter, who had been working as an EMT for several years but was injured at the
between three different Tastykakes and a cold beverage.
The menu can be found at beachbucketlunch.com and orders can be placed by calling the phone number on the website.
“We always got good food there, and the people were just simply always nice, and they continue to be,” said Ritter.
On Beach Bucket l unch’s website, there’s a slew of options of sandwiches, salads and a kids menu that customers can choose between from the market. Included in the meal is a bag of chips, a choice
After the order is placed, someone from Ritter’s team will pick up the food and send a text when they arrive at the beach, saying to flag them down so they can bring over the beach buckets.
“The whole idea is to save mom from having to leave the beach, having to wait in line and look for parking. It's about being convenient,” said Ritter. “ you shouldn't have to leave the beach to get your lunch.”
The amount of buckets Ritter delivers per day depends on the beach’s conditions. On cloudy days, it could be a handful, but on a sunny one, it could be hundreds.
Ritter’s favorite part of running her business is interacting with the families that come down each year. She said families that use her service year after year will come to her at the end of the summer with several buckets, wanting to give them to her. Ritter will take the buckets and give the customers a credit to put toward lunch the next summer.
“We're all about customer service, and we're all about partnering with who we think is providing the best food, and what we can put on our menu that we think works best on the beach and we can deliver there.”
Ritter also hosts a podcast named The Beach Bucket Podcast, where she sits down with local business owners such as Playland’s Castaway Cove, Varsity Inn, Ocean City Coffee Co. and more.
The
Oh hey entertainment enthusiasts! Get ready to rock ‘n’ roll with this Independence Day week edition of Shore local. The legendary Pat Benatar and the sensational Donny Osmond are both in town for electrifying performances. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness these iconic stars in action! Show some love to our local venues as we make this week along the Jersey Shore truly
Saturday & Sunday 8am - 11am
epic. And remember, for all your concert pics & vids, don’t forget to use the hashtags #shorelocal #gotowhitney and #thecitypulse.
Who: ZOSO: The ultimate led Zeppelin Experience
Where: Tropicana Atlantic City
When: Friday, July 5
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: www.zosoontour.com
Zoso - The u ltimate led Zeppelin Experience, has performed the most accurate and captivating led Zeppelin live show since the real thing. Zoso fully embodies Page, Plant, Bonham and Jones in their spirit, tightly wound talent and authenticity.
When: Saturday, July 6
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: theoceanac.com/entertainment/headliners/pat-benatar-neil-giraldo
Both locations are now open for summer to kick back island style! Whether you choose to indulge in one of our new hand-crafted menu items or a guest favorite like the Cheeseburger in Paradise, when quality comes first, it is easy to relax in paradise. Enjoy an ice cold Margarita or Boat Drink because it’s always 5 o’clock here!
Having sold over 36 million records worldwide, and won four consecutive Grammy awards, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo is a concert you won’t want to miss.
What: Fortune Feimster
Where: Tropicana Atlantic City
When: Saturday, July 6
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: caesars.com/tropicana-ac/ shows
Stand-up comedian, writer, and actor, Fortune Feimster is bringing her live l augh love! tour to the Tropicana Showroom.
What: Red Wine and Blueberry 5k Run
Where: Renault Winery
When: Saturday, July 6
Time: 9 a.m.
Website: www.renaultwinery.com/ events/5933/
Start your holiday weekend with a Red Wine & Blueberry 5k Run. Dress in your most patriotic outfit. Adults will run a 5K course on a flat, multi-surface road to the Egg Harbor City lake and back to Renault Winery.
What: The Jenny Barnes Band
Where: Josie Kelly’s Public House
When: Saturday, July 6
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: josiekellys.com/events/ category/events
Josie Kelly’s Public House is proud to present The Jenny Barnes Band. Join them for an evening filled with classic rock covers and soulful originals. Don’t miss your chance to catch this incredible talent. No cover.
Who: Donny Osmond - Direct from Vegas
Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino | Etess Arena
When: Sunday, July 7
Time: 7 p.m.
Website: casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/donny-osmond
If you’re a fan of Donny Osmond or just love great music and entertainment, don’t miss out on this incredible
opportunity to see him live in Atlantic City. Get ready to be blown away by his incredible vocal range, impressive dance moves, and timeless hits that span generations.
Who: Ocean City Pops Present Greatest Hits
Where: Ocean City Music Pier
When: Sunday, July 7
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Website: oceancityvacation. com/boxoffice
Back by popular demand, Maestro Vince lee will take you on a whirlwind tour of the wide variety of genres that the OC Pops is famous for, all in one action-packed evening. you’ll hear symphonic folk tales, brassy fanfares, Hollywood hits, Tin Pan Alley tunes, and even funk and soul. If you enjoy an evening of variety and surprises, this concert is for you.
Who: lovelight (Grateful Dead Tribute) | Atlantic City
↘Continued on 60
Where: Anchor Rock Club
When: Sunday, July 7
Time: 4 p.m.
Website: www.atlanticcitynj. com/events/event-list/lovelight-grateful-dead-tribute/ Check out lovelight - Tribute to Grateful Dead at Anchor Rock Club.
Who: Joe Holiday live, The Magic & Comedy Hour
Where: Wyndham’s Skyline Tower
When : Every Saturday Time: 3 p.m.
Website: www.joeholiday.com/live
magic comedy hour every Saturday at 3 p.m. Al SO his July 6 Show may be out, so he added another Friday, July 5, and Sunday, July 7, both at 3 p.m.
What: Disco Inferno
Where: Bally’s Atlantic City
When: Sundays now through Sept. 8
Time: 8 p.m.
Check out magician Joe Holiday lIVE at Wyndham’s Skyline Tower for the
Website: casinos.ballys.com/atlantic-city/showroom.htm
Get ready to boogie down at Disco Inferno, the ultimate disco party in Atlantic City! This event is perfect for anyone who loves disco music and wants to relive the sounds of the disco era.
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!
Absecon Concerts in the Park
▶Sunday, July 7, 7 p.m.
Atlantic City
Heritage Park 699 Blenheim Ave.
The City of Absecon presents Concerts in the Park. This week, enjoy live music from Eclection. All concerts start at 7 p.m. Bring your own chair or blanket. Fun, friends, food, and free admission.
EHT Rhythm in the Park
▶Friday, July 5, 7 – 9 p.m.
Robert J. lincoln Amphitheater in Tony Canale Park
Bring your blankets and chairs and join EHT Parks & Recreation for a season of live music in the park. This week, hear the 1950’s experience with Kevin Grace. Visit www.ehtrec.com or www.facebook.com/EHTRecreation in the event of inclement weather.
Galloway Music in the Park
▶Friday, July 12, 6 – 8 p.m.
Galloway Township Municipal Complex 300 E. Jimmie leeds Rd.
Join Galloway Township for a live outdoor concert with music by Twisted livin’, plus enjoy great food from Nautigirl, Waffle up, and Romanelli’s Beer and Wine Garden from 5:30 –8:30 p.m.
Jazz on the Beach
▶Thursday, July 4, 7 – 10 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza 2300 Boardwalk,
The Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation presents free Jazz on the Beach concerts every Thursday. Enjoy a special Fourth of July concert featuring l inda May Han Oh, with local jazz artist Keith Hollis & Co. In the event of rain, the show will be moved to the Claridge Hotel Stage 4th floor. Visit www.chickenbonebeach.org for updates.
Longport 4th of July Concert
▶Thursday, July 4, 7:30 p.m.
Borough Hall 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Join the longport library for a special concert at the gazebo behind Borough Hall, featuring the Atlantic Brass Band, to be held after the American Mile Run and Awards ceremony. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.
Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk
▶Wednesdays, 7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza 2300 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
On July 3, John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band takes the stage. Hear the original "Eddie and
7DAYSAWEEK4-7PM
the Cruisers" soundtrack recording artists perform their biggest hits, including “On the Dark Side” and “Tender years”. And on July 10, don’t miss Stanley Jordan as the famous guitarist pays tribute to the Grateful Dead, with an opening performance from the hot, emerging jammin’ roots rock band Funk you. For more information, visit tonymart.com.
Somers Point Beach Concert Series
▶Thursday, July 4 & Friday, July 5, 7 p.m.
William Morrow Beach 800 Bay Ave.
The Somers Point Beach Concert Series celebrates the Fourth of July with John Cafferty & the Beaver Brown Band as they perform some
of their biggest hits from "Eddie and the Cruisers", including “Tender years” and “On the Dark Side”. And on July 5, celebrates Mardi Gras in July with one of the world’s greatest Cajun fiddlers and Bourbon Street entertainers, Waylon Thibodeaux, with Ben levin on piano, and special guest Danny Eyer. Visit www.somerspointbeachconcerts.com for the full summer lineup.
Ventnor City Summer Beach Jam
▶Saturday, July 6, 5:30 p.m.
Ski Beach Dorset & Burk Ave. listen to live music by the beach. The Summer Beach Jam is held at Newport Avenue Beach. This week, enjoy live music by Even Betta at 5:30 p.m., followed by NJ British Invasion at 7 p.m. Food and crafters will be ready to serve you at 5 p.m.
Ventnor City Sunset at Ski Beach
▶Wednesday, July 10, 6 p.m.
Ski Beach Dorset & Burk Ave.
Want to watch the sunset and listen to live music by the bay? Join Ventnor City at Ski Beach in Ventnor Heights on Wednesdays. This week, enjoy live music by Don’t Call Me Francis, playing top hits and classics from the '70s to today. live music begins at 5:30 p.m. with food and crafters ready to serve you at 5 p.m.
Somers Point will host its annual Mardi Gras celebration in July, featuring the Jersey Gumbo Cook Off and louisiana Music Festival. Nearly a dozen of South Jersey’s top chefs will compete for the coveted King Mardi Gras Chef Crown.
Renowned food educators like Chef Joseph Sheridan from Atlantic
Cape Community College will join the competition, along with top culinary teams from the region. Chef Phil Gormley’s special events team from Smithville Inn, Executive Chef Robert levenson, and Chef David Wong from Resorts Casino’s Capriccio, voted the No. 1 Casino Italian restaurant in uSA Today, are among the contenders. They will face off against newcomers such as Executive Chef Dan l uber from Greate Bay Country
Club and Master Chef Tyson Merryman from Tuckahoe Inn, who has a rich background in louisiana cuisine and Mississippi riverboats. l ocal favorites, including Chef Niko Karamanis from Galloway Casual Dining, seafood experts PJ Buckets, and the 2023 “People’s Choice” winner, Chef Paul from Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar, will also vie for the title. The reigning Mardi Gras King of Gumbo, Chef David Goldstein of the Professional Chefs Association of South Jersey, will defend his crown.
In 2023, Chef Goldstein used his $1,000 prize money to support his mission of serving over a million free meals during his career, adding a philanthropic flavor to his victory.
1. Chef David Goldstein: Reigning Mardi Gras King of Gumbo 2023 from the American Culinary Federation Professional Chef’s Association of South Jersey.
2. Chef Paul Gregory and Manager Walter Gregory: “People’s Choice” winners from Jersey Gumbo 2023, serving their popular gumbo at Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar.
3. Chef Tyson Merryman, Tuckahoe Inn: Formerly of The Anchorage, with experience in louisiana and Mississippi riverboats.
4. Chef Philip Gormley, Smithville Inn: Executive Chef renowned for farm-to-table cuisine and special event menus.
5. Chef Robert levenson, Resorts Casino: leading the team at Capriccio, voted the top Italian casino restaurant in uSA Today.
6. Chef Niko Karamanis, Galloway Casual Dining: Known for his creative and exotic flavors.
7. Chef Dan luber, Greate Bay Country Club: New Executive Chef bringing fresh culinary talent to the competition.
8. Chef Joseph Sheridan, Atlantic Cape Culinary Arts Director bringing student-inspired culinary creativity.
9. Paul & Joan lutz, PJ Buckets Restaurants: Seafood specialists delighting fans with their mac and cheese with seafood and, of course, seafood gumbo.
The festivities will be held at The Point (with their beautiful Tiki Bar), starting at 3 p.m. and continuing through the last funky Mardi Gras show with Billy Walton & Destinee Monroe at 10 p.m. on Monday night, July 8, 2024. The event is presented by Tony Mart Presents.
Mardi Gras weekend in Somers Point kicks off with the Atlanticare Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point, at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 5. One of the world’s greatest Cajun fiddlers, Waylon Thibodeaux, will perform with The Tony Mart Allstars New
Orleans Big Band. The band features Howard Isaacson, Bob Ferguson, Tommy Quayle on tuba, Danny Eyer on guitar, the vocals of Brian Conover, and “Old School” Jimmy Glenn on vocals and drums.
The Friday night party will also feature a Mardi Gras second line parade on the sand and classic New Orleans music as “The Saints Go Marching In” on the picturesque Somers Point beach.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in style on the historic Somers Point bayfront!
July 3, 2024
DDonny & Marie fan, I felt it behooved me to catch such a hot-ticket pre -
For tickets, go to ticketmaster.com.
side from Nola’s, Medal Bar was officially christened last weekend by Dominique Dawes (the only American gymnast to win medals in three different Olympics). It’s billed as “the Summer Games Experience,” and features what Ocean officials describe as “an international flair with Americana spirit and a nod to the host city (Paris).” And, not surprisingly, TVs will offer a chance to watch the action.
While the games run July 26-Aug. 11, Medal Bar will be up and running through Sept. 1 Hours of operation are 5 p.m.-midnight Thursday, Friday and Sunday and 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday.
‘Buddy’ system at Harrah’s
Also open now is Buddy’s Boardwalk Empire, a new munchies outlet from TV “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City (which, of course, isn’t on the Boardwalk, but hey, why nitpick?).
located in the bayside pleasure dome’s Grand lobby, Buddy’s Boardwalk Empire is a casual-dining operation whose bill of fare includes “Jer-
sey-style” sandwiches, pizza, pasta and a selections of desserts--including cannoli and Valastro’s signature lobster Tail pastries--from Carlo’s Bake Shop, the chain upon which Valastro built his culinary kingdom.
“As a Jersey native, I'm thrilled to bring the Boardwalk experience to Harrah's Resort,” said Valastro. “At Buddy's Boardwalk Empire, we're serving up a slice of Jersey with every bite, perfectly complementing the vibrant spirit of Harrah's.”
For more go to caesars.com/ harrahs-ac.com.
Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.
Wednesday, July 3
John Cafferty & The Beaver
Brown Band
▶7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza
Kesha
▶9 p.m.
Hard Rock live at Etess
Arena
Friday, July 5
Pat McGann
▶9 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin
Experience
▶8 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
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
Fortune Feimster
▶8 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
Monday-Saturday 7am-9pm • Sunday 7am-4pm
Sunday, July 7
Super Trans Am
▶4 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Donny Osmond
▶7 p.m.
Hard Rock live at Etess Arena
Wednesday, July 10
Stanley Jordan
▶7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza
Thursday, July 11
Pop Divas
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Friday, July 12
Brian McKnight
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Asia
▶8 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
The Disco Biscuits
▶9 p.m.
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
▶3 – 11 p.m.
Island Waterpark at Showboat
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
Classic Albums Live perform The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust
▶8 p.m.
Superstar Theater at Resorts
Marco Benevento w/ Doom
Flamingo
▶11:30 p.m.
Bourbon Ballroom at Showboat
Friday, July 19
Totally Tubular Festival
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock live at Etess Arena
Joey Fatone & AJ McLean
▶9 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Kathleen Madigan
▶9 p.m.
The Music Box at Borgata
Saturday, July 20
Pete Davidson
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Kathleen Madigan
▶9 p.m.
The Music Box at Borgata
Roy Orbison and Everly Brothers
Reimagined
▶8 p.m.
Circus Maximus Theater at Cae -
sars
Atif Aslam
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock live at Etess Arena
Sunday, July 21
Kevin Hart
▶7 p.m.
Hard Rock live at Etess Arena
All tickets on sale Friday, July 5, 10 a.m.
After two shows on June 24 sold out, “ let’s Sing Taylor: A live Band Experience Celebrating Taylor Swift” will return for a third show at the Ocean City Music Pier at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20.
The band promotes its “faithful and lively covers” of Swift’s expansive catalog, and feedback from fans at the recent Ocean City shows was overwhelmingly positive.
“We’re bringing the communal experience of celebrating Taylor’s music in a live setting to Swifties near and far,” they say, while calling for
fans “to sing your hearts out and sport your Taylor-inspired attire.”
Tickets for the new show go on sale through etix.com at 10 a.m.
Wednesday, July 3. A special presale (use code BRE) will take place 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday July 2.
By Sarah Fertsch
It’s hot. you may feel like you’re living inside a giant convection oven with all of this heat. We are all desperate for ways to beat the heat, so jump in a pool, turn on a fan, or wear a flowy sundress, and try these cool summer recipes:
This cold soup will refresh you and make for a unique lunch dish to share with family or friends. It’s so easy, too!
Ingredients:
● 6 cups of seedless watermelon
● 1 cucumber
● 1 jalapeno pepper
● 1 large tomato
● ½ cup of lemon juice
● ½ cup of lime juice
● 2 tbsp of red wine vinegar
● Salt and pepper to taste
● Crumbled feta as a garnish
Blend watermelon and pour into a large bowl. Peel cucumber and chop roughly. Chop pepper and remove seeds. Chop tomato and remove seeds. Blend cucumber, pepper, and tomato and stir into the watermelon mixture. Add lemon and lime juice, salt and pepper, and red wine vinegar. Stir thoroughly, and strain into another large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for three hours. Serve chilled, and top with crumbled feta. yum!
This classic salad will make you feel like you’ve arrived in the Italian countryside. Make sure to use the freshest, most local ingredients!
Ingredients:
● 1 quart of mozzarella balls
● 2 pints of baby tomatoes
● 2 cups of chopped basil leaves
● ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar
● 2 tbsp of olive oil
● 2 tbsp of lemon juice
● Salt and pepper to taste
Wash baby tomatoes and pour in a large bowl. Chop basil leaves and add to the large bowl. Combine with mozzarella balls, vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Serve cold, and enjoy with a slice of crusty bread!
Sip this delicious mixed drink and taste summer relaxation! The cucumber-mint flavors will quench your thirst and beat the summer heat. Ingredients:
● 1 cucumber, sliced thinly
● 1 cup of mint leaves
● 1 cup of vodka
● 2 cups of lemonade
● 1 cup of sparkling water
Wash and slice cucumber, and roughly chop mint leaves. In a large pitcher, place cucumber slices and mint leaves (leave some cucumber slices for garnish). Combine with vodka, lemonade, and sparkling water. Stir thoroughly, and serve drinks over ice with a slice of cucumber placed on the rim of the glass as a garnish. So refreshing!
When you taste the nutty sweetness of this ice cream, you’ll never buy ice cream from the grocery store again. And you don’t need an ice cream machine to make this dessert!
Ingredients:
● 3 cups of heavy cream
● 1 can of condensed milk
● ½ jar of Nutella
● ½ tsp of vanilla extract
● ½ tsp of salt
Whip heavy cream and salt until stiff peaks form. Add condensed milk, Nutella and vanilla, stirring carefully to not break peaks. Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container and place in the freezer for 18-24 hours. Scoop and treat yourself!
By Bruce Klauber
Tibor Rudus was a Hungarian entrepreneur who thought big. Very big.
Born in Budapest in 1920, he performed as a soprano in the Budapest Opera at the age of 8. He also trained as an acrobat with his twin brother, Andras. The two performed an acrobatic act as the Rudas Twins until their careers were
interrupted by World War II, when the brothers were imprisoned by the Nazis in the Bergen Belsen concentration camp.
After the war he resumed his career as an acrobat via the formation of a dance act called Sugar Baba and the Rudas Twins. Sugar Baba was Rudas’ first wife, Anna.
When that act ran its course, Anna and Tibor moved to Australia, opened a dance studio, and formed a dance
troupe called the Rudas Acro Dancers. The actual act was a French-styled revue based on the famed Ziegfeld Follies.
In the early 1960s, Rudas realized that the money and the opportunities for that kind of act were in the u nited States, specifically las Vegas.
Vegas at the time was experimenting with revue shows that were, at least in part, similar to what the Rudas Acro Dancers were doing. In 1963, he hooked up with the Tropicana in las Vegas.
SOMERS POINT & EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP
While in Vegas, he expanded the concept of the dance revue show by adding comics, magicians, jugglers, and other variety acts to the mix. The shows were popular, well-attended, entertaining, and made economic sense. Additionally, the casino and the producers didn’t have to worry about name headliners who might be unreliable or questionable draws. Examples? Remember that Elvis bombed in his first Vegas appearance in 1956, and Judy Garland was notorious for canceling her shows due to illness.
By 1967, in addition to what he was doing in l as Vegas, Rudas was producing three shows for the Resorts Casino and Hotel on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. Given his history of innovation, life-long interest in classical music, and his close association with Resorts, Rudas convinced Resorts management in Atlantic City to present classical music programs for the first time. Indeed in the late 1970s, the New york Philharmonic, Joan Sutherland, and Itzhak Perlman all graced the stage of the Superstar Theatre at Resorts International.
“I convinced performers that their talent belonged to a much wider audience,” he told The Times of london years later. “In my variety days, I’d seen classical orchestras perform in casinos in many European cities. People came in droves. When I introduced the New york Philharmonic under Zubin Mehta to the casino showroom, it was the first time such a thing had been dreamt of in America.”
For Rudas, the next logical step, if he could pull it off, would be a real coup: Bring luciano Pavoratti to the Resorts stage.
In October, 1983, he convinced
Pavarotti to come to Atlantic City, but there was one major issue. The tenor, like pop music stars Bing Crosby and Doris Day, simply refused to perform in a casino. Rudas’ solution was to erect a 50,000-square-foot, five-story-high tent on an empty lot adjoining Resorts. Not only did that work for Pavorotti, but 5,000 tickets sold out in three hours, which forced Rudas to commission an even bigger tent with amenities to be approved by Pavarotti. The final version of the tent was heated, outfitted with 50,000 square feet of carpeting, and a $50,000 lighting system was installed. A sound engineering expert was brought in from london to work with Pavarotti on the acoustics.
The Pavoratti performance was such a big deal, that they had a commemorative casino chip made to mark the occasion.
According to u nited Press International, on Oct. 29, 1983, “ luciano Pavarotti brought opera to the boardwalk, drawing a standing room only crowd of more than 7,500, high-rolling gamblers and classical music buffs to a concert held in a tent at an Atlantic City casino. The burly, bearded Italian superstar was greeted with wild applause and cheers as he sauntered through the
On Oct. 29, 1983, Luciano Pavarotti came to Atlantic City drawing a standing-room-only crowd of more than 7,500 to a tent outside of Resorts.
orchestra, the 87-piece New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, and walked to center stage. Clutching his familiar white handkerchief, Pavarotti sailed through the first of seven arias by Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini and Gaetano Donizetti, drawing ‘bravos’ from the crowd.
“Officials at Resorts International Hotel-Casino, who hoped Pavarotti’s appearance would help them recapture their reputation for top-flight entertainment after stars like Frank Sinatra and Diana Ross went elsewhere, said Pavarotti had created an unprecedented stir in the gambling resort.”
Resorts’ PR chief Phil Wechsler
said at the time, “There isn't a room to be had in town this weekend. We could have sold triple the number of tickets we did.”
Pavarotti, who arrived Friday night in time to attend a lavish private party for dozens of premium players flown in by the casino for the concert, said his performance represented a new frontier for music. “When you do something new, people are always skeptical,” he said. “But the reason I am performing here is to bring opera to more people.”
The unprecedented success of the event led to Rudas’ departure from Resorts to produce Pavarotti’s concerts all over the world. That included a booking at Atlantic City’s Taj Mahal in February of 2003. He later presented The Three Tenors (Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo and José Carreras) internationally.
Rudas, who died in September of 2014 at the age 94, was proud of his accomplishments, despite the skeptics and the critics. “I am the bad boy who took opera out of the opera houses and gave it to the masses,” he told The Philadelphia Inquirer in his later years.
That was quite an accomplishment, and it hasn’t been done in Atlantic City since.
Drink Up!
By David Setley
This week, we celebrate Independence Day, the most American of all holidays, and the 248th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. let’s hear it for the red, white, and blue! Did you know that wine is produced in all 50 states? While I won’t attempt to make recommendations from all 50, allow me to offer suggestions for red, white, and even blue wines that you may enjoy over the holiday weekend.
For our first red wine on this all-American wine tour, we’ll start in California. you are likely familiar with great Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlots, Chardonnays, and Zinfandels produced in the state, but have you tried a Petite Sirah? I would argue that California does Petite Sirah better than any other location. The terroir of the Paso Robles region is ideal, and the
2020 J. lohr Tower Road
Petite Sirah is one of the best examples. This wine is hand-harvested and barrel-aged in French oak for 18 months before bottling. It is the perfect wine for grilling season and pairs well with any grilled vegetables or meats. The tannins are rich but smooth. The bold flavors are blackberries, plum, and cranberry with notes of leather, chocolate, and a touch of oak. In my opinion, this is a perfect summer red.
For a second red wine, we’ll head to the Pacific Northwest. The Willamette Valley of Oregon has become famous, and rightly so, for excellent Pinot Noirs. My favorite Oregon winery is Montinore Estates, and their 2019 Montinore Estate Reserve Pinot Noir is why. The winemaker selects the best Pinot Noir grapes from each of the estate vineyards and blends them in this wine to represent the best of the best from that year. The 2019 vintage has well-structured tannins and the lovely acidity that this varietal is known for. The aroma high -
lights cedar wood and forest floor, while the palate is ripe cherries and baking spices. In my opinion, this is one of the best Pinot Noirs produced in the u.S.
let’s move on to white wines. As we head a bit further east, I’d like to recommend a white sparkling wine from a state that you may not expect. My wife, Gwen, was in search of a sparkling wine for her entry to one of Passion Vines’ monthly Open that Bottle Night events a while back. In browsing the shelves, we found a Gruet sparkling wine that was made in the Methode Champenois, the traditional double fermentation process utilized in Champagne, France. The Gruet Blanc de Blanc has earned high praise from Wine Spectator, among other wine sources, and is a brut (dry) sparkling wine made from Chardonnay grapes. I was amazed at the yeasty brioche aroma and crisp tropical flavors of this wine. Where was it from, you ask? New Mexico, where my wife grew up (which cinched her decision in choosing it for the event). Everyone at the event thoroughly enjoyed it. If you are looking for a sparkling wine to toast our nation’s birthday, consider this offering from New Mexico. you won’t be disappointed.
are hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed. They are then 100% fermented and aged in stainless steel. The result is a floral aroma with flavors of pear and citrus, with the minerality of crushed rock. The long finish is extended by crisp acidity. Many of Hobbs’ wines can be expensive, but this one is quite reasonable. If you haven’t enjoyed the work of this outstanding winemaker, start with this Dry Riesling.
That covers red and white wines, but what about blue? For that, we’ll come home to New Jersey to William Heritage Winery, located in Mullica Hills. Proprietors Bill and Penni Heritage utilize sustainable farming at their vineyards and produce a wide variety of excellent wines. Among these is a sweet wine made from blueberries grown in Haddonfield, New Jersey. The Heritage Jersey Blue has won the Governor’s Cup in the sweet fruit wine category and is my recommendation for a blue wine this Independence Day. It’s well-made and is perfect for guests who prefer something fruitier and sweeter.
What color do you get when you mix red and white? Pink! I’ll finish our American wine tour in long Island, New york, with a perfectly named wine for the season: Summer in a Bottle long Island Rosé 2023, from Wolfer Estates. This wonderful rosé is comprised of an array of red and white grapes, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Petit Meunier, Cayuga, and Syrah. Impressive, right? Acidity adds the crisp freshness we look for in a good rosé, and I am a big fan of the minerality, light salinity, and long finish of this dry wine. Summer in a Bottle is perfect with spicy foods. It may be the perfect wine for fireworks!
Continuing east, for our next white wine, we’ll visit Hillick and Hobbs Winery on Seneca lake in New york. Owned by Paul Hobbs, the international wine visionary that Forbes Magazine called “The Steve Jobs of Wine,” Hillick and Hobbs Winery is named in honor of his parents, who met at Cornell university and raised him on a farm in upstate New york. Only one varietal is grown and produced at the winery: Riesling. Hobbs believes that the terroir of the Finger lakes region is perfect for Rieslings, and I must say that the Hillick and Hobbs 2021 Dry Riesling perfectly demonstrates his belief. The grapes
Celebrate America by offering your guests red, white, and blue wines this Independence Day. As always, contact me with any questions at dsetley@passionvines.com, or stop into the store. until next time, happy birthday, America! 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. July 3,
Kote’s seascapes are magnetic. They hypnotize, like the rhythmic movement of the waves on the shoreline. Water, air, and colors palpably mix on the canvas, shaping fluid surfaces in which the boundaries evocatively dissolve. – ART HISTORIAN CINZIA FRANCESCHINI
The entire area is magnificent, but the quality of light and the atmosphere of Avalon and Stone Harbor are what I find the most compelling. In my work, the process of exploration of light, color, pattern, and shapes keeps me engaged in every way...
– JOSEF KOTE
RECEPTIONS WITH THE ARTIST
FRIDAY JULY 5 6pm to 9pm and SATURDAY JULY 6 6pm to 9pm RSVP via our website: www.oceangalleries.com
These original paintings depict the beaches, harbors, and sightlines of Avalon and Stone Harbor. This is our eighth year hosting Josef for an exhibit... His quality never wavers, yet his paintings are always different. He’s always recreating himself, always painting something that people just HAVE to have.
– KIM MILLER
The new hot spot for the best chicken in AyCee celebrated a grand opening on Tuesday, July 2.
Resorts Casino Hotel is excited to announce a brand-new eatery, Chicken Guy!, located at North Carolina Ave. and the Boardwalk, is now open! Known for its inviting atmosphere and developed by Robert Earl and the one-and-only Guy Fieri, Chicken Guy! offers up delicious signature recipes made from all-natural chicken. Popular menu options include Big Bite Chicken Sandwiches like the Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ, the Hot Honey and the Buffalo Mac ‘N’ Cheese.
“We’re ecstatic about the opening of Chicken Guy! at Resorts. These restaurants are known for their fantastic chicken and exceptional guest service,” said Mark Giannantonio, President and CEO of Resorts Casino Hotel. “Chicken Guy! is a fantastic addition to our boardwalk front!”
Chicken Guy! is known for its fresh chicken tenders,
hand-pounded to maximize crunch and can be paired with 11 different house-made sauces that include fan favorites Garlic Parmesan, Chipotle Ranch and Donkey Sauce. Tenders are brined in fresh lemon juice, pickle brine, buttermilk and infused with herbs for peak
flavor and texture. The menu also offers up specialty spiced tenders as well as grilled chicken options. Guests can pair their meal with perfectly cooked Chicken Guy! Fries and a famous Flavortown Shake, which comes in various flavors including Triple Double Mint, Vanilla, Strawberry, Oreo and Chocolate.
Chicken Guy! will also offer
a full bar and feature a handcrafted cocktail menu. A cold beer goes great with Chicken Guy! offerings, or guests can take their drink to go! Must-try cocktails include Freaky Tiki Rum Punch (Bacardi Spiced Rum & Bacardi Rum, pineapple juice, grenadine, almond syrup, lime) or the Guy-Mosa (Witbier, Skyy Blood Orange Vodka, orange juice, sparkling wine). A larger boardwalk bar is slated to open later this summer.
Join the fun this Friday, July 5 from 12 - 3 p.m. with Mike and Diane from 95.1FM WAy V. They will be on site to celebrate the opening with games and lots of giveaways! For more information on all things Resorts Casino Hotel, visit resortsac. com.
Wednesday, July 3
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Michael Stevens
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Hawkins Road
6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
Sensational Soul Cruisers
6:30 – 9 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Somers Point
Crab Trap
That 70’s Band
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s Walt Sapsai
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Thursday, July 4
Atlantic City
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Cellar Sessions
9:30 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Dane Anthony
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Deck at Golden Nugget
JoBonnano & The Godsons of Soul
7 – 11 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Night Anthem
9:30 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Yard at Bally’s
Sky City Social
10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
1900 Pacific Ave.
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
3AM Tokyo
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Linwood
Fox Den at LCC
Jay laBoy
6 – 10 p.m.
500 Shore Rd.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
Atley Moon & The Say Somethings
4:30 – 7:30 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
99 Reasons
8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
450 Bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Bob & Nick
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Doug Jennings
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Gregory’s
Bob & Bob
6 – 8 p.m.
900 Shore Rd.
The Point
Billy Walton Band
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Sweetwater
Sweetwater Marina
Radio Revolution
12 – 4 p.m.
Supergalactic Fun Party
6 – 10 p.m.
2780 7th Ave.
Ventnor
Ventnor Coffee
Open Mic Night w/ Pete Glaze &
T Five
6:30 – 9 p.m.
108 N. Dorset Ave.
Friday, July 5
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Kristina Pruitt
6 p.m.
Dominick Martino
9:15 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
Emo Night w/ DJ David Earl
9 p.m.
247 S. New york Ave.
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
lastella Brothers
7 p.m.
Hometown Radio
10 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Modern luxe Duo
6 – 10 p.m.
The Benjamins
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Cheers the Band
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Yard at Bally’s Night Anthem
10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
1900 Pacific Ave.
Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino
Brandon Ireland Band
9:30 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
FM Band
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
Noah Richardson
12 – 4 p.m.
Philly Keys
6 – 10 p.m.
72 N. Bremen Ave.
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
Chris yoder 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
Barista’s Coffee House
Dakota Mason
6 – 8 p.m.
199 New Rd.
Fox Den at LCC
John Wood
6 – 10 p.m.
500 Shore Rd.
Margate Bocca
CJ Sooy
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside
Tavern
Surrounded by Idiots
6 – 10 p.m.
Mike laGuardia
8:30 – 11:30 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light
Steve Gitto
7 – 10 p.m.
1 N. New york Rd.
Sweetwater
Sweetwater Marina
80s Revolution
7 – 11 p.m.
2780 7th Ave.
Saturday, July 6
Absecon
Reddog’s Hi Point Pub
Chelsea Rae
7 – 10 p.m.
5 N. Shore Rd.
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Jeremy Oren
6 p.m.
Dominick Martino
9:15 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Somers Point
Anchorage Tavern
Cole Moore
9:30 p.m.
823 Bay Ave.
Caroline’s by the Bay Hayley & Timmy
4 – 7 p.m.
Big Foot Band
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 Bay Ave.
Crab Trap
That 70’s Band
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Ray McGeehan
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Fitzpatrick’s
Andy Berlin
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
650 New Rd.
Josie Kelly’s
Tom & Bill
6 – 9 p.m.
908 Shore Rd.
The Point legacy
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Anchor Rock Club
Marah w/ Ma’am
8 p.m.
247 S. New york Ave.
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
High Five Swan Dive
7 p.m.
Turning the Tide
10 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Bar None Band
5 – 9 p.m.
John McNutt Band
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Steel Pier
Glenn Roberts
3 – 7 p.m.
Killer B’s
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Steve Moore & MIA
2:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Don’t Call Me Francis
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave. ↘Continued from 78
Continued on 82
The Glitter Bar at Resorts
DJ Gary
9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
1133 Boardwalk
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Dane Anthony Band
5 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Yard at Bally’s
Steal the Sky
10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
1900 Pacific Ave.
Villain and Saint at Ocean
Casino
Isn’t it Always
10 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
The lenahan Band
1 – 5 p.m.
The Knockouts
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
Peabody’s Wayback Machine
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
500 St. Andrews Dr.
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
John King
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ryan Coleman
1 – 4 p.m.
Devlin Band
6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
72 N. Bremen Ave.
Galloway
Romanelli’s Garden Café
Joe Grasso
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
279 S. New york Rd.
Margate
Bocca
Bob, Nicky & lou
7 – 10 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside
Tavern
Megan Knight Band
6 – 10 p.m.
Scott Horner
8:30 – 11:30 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light
Kyle Horner
7 – 10 p.m.
1 N. New york Rd.
Somers Point
Anchorage Tavern
DJ Swoosh
9:30 p.m. 823 Bay Ave.
Caroline’s by the Bay
Dr. Phil & The Heart Attacks
4 – 7 p.m.
yachtzee Band
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 Bay Ave.
Crab Trap That 70’s Band
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s Glen Eric
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Gregory’s
DJ
9 p.m.
900 Shore Rd.
Fitzpatrick’s Andy Berlin
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
650 New Rd.
Josie Kelly’s
The Jenny Barnes Band
9 p.m.
908 Shore Rd.
The Point
JD Valenteen
1 – 5 p.m.
Soul Seduction
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Sweetwater
Sweetwater Marina
Ian & Christina
12 – 4 p.m.
Disco Techs
7 – 11 p.m.
2780 7th Ave.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Damn the Torpedoes: Tom Petty
Concert Experience
7:30 p.m.
217 E. Main St.
Sunday, July 7
Absecon
Reddog’s Hi Point Pub
Jazzmen
4 – 6 p.m.
5 N. Shore Rd.
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino Dueling Pianos
8 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
lovelight: Grateful Dead Tribute
5 p.m.
247 S. New york Ave.
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
unforgettable Fire: u2 Tribute
8 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget lauralea Duo
7 – 11 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Deck at Golden Nugget
The Exceptions
2:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Dane Anthony
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Glitter Bar at Resorts
DJ Charles
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
Incognito
1 – 5 p.m.
lovelace
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
Six Pack Rodeo Band
12 – 4 p.m. 72 N. Bremen Ave.
Galloway
Romanelli’s Garden Café
Taylor lenahan
12 – 3 p.m.
279 S. New york Rd.
Margate
Bocca
Steph Owens
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
Sidearm
6 – 10 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
The Notion
4 – 8 p.m.
450 Bay Ave.
Crab Trap
lew london Duo
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Doug Jennings
1 – 4 p.m.
Kevin Burns
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Josie Kelly’s
Traditional Irish Session
1 – 4 p.m.
908 Shore Rd.
Mexiquila
De Tierra
4 – 7 p.m.
101 E. Maryland Ave.
The Point
The Verdict
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Monday, July 8
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Tommy & The Hot Flashes
7 – 11 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Steel Pier
Tony Caggiano
3 – 7 p.m.
Bar None
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Red
6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
lindsey Evans
6 – 10 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Somers Point
Crab Trap
Gregg Clark
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
lew london Duo
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
The Point
Jersey Gumbo Festival
3 – 11 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Tuesday, July 9
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Patty & Bugzy
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Deck at Golden Nugget
DJ Johnny looch
6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Somers Point
Josie Kelly’s
DJ Special K
5 – 9 p.m.
908 Shore Rd.
Crab Trap
Danny Eyer
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Chris yoder
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
The Point
Brian Kmetz
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Wednesday, July 10
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Michael Stevens
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Steel Pier
Dan Klee
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Hawkins Road
6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Margate Bocca
Bob Sterling & The Bocca Boys
7 – 10 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Open Mic Night hosted by Blue
Eagle. 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 Bay Ave.
Crab Trap
That 70’s Band
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Jon Thompson
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Josie Kelly’s
The Tommy Allen Band
7 – 10:30 p.m.
908 Shore Rd.
The Point
Coast 2 Coast
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Events subject to change.
CLEVELAND Fri. 6/21 2pm-pm
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In honor of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City’s sixth anniversary on June 28, the resort hosted a celebratory luncheon at their newest seaside dining destination, The Terrace, where donations totaling $36,000 were presented to six local organizations. Recipients included the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, Jewish Family Services, Covenant House, Hope One, the ARC of Atlantic County and AC
THURSDAY - JULY 4
99 Reasons Band 8:30pm-12:30am
FRIDAY - JULY 5
Haley & Timmy Duo 4pm-7pm
Big Foot Band 8pm-12am
SATURDAY - JULY 6
Dr. Phil & The Heart Attacks 4pm-8pm
Yachtzee Band 8pm-12am
SUNDAY - JULY 7
The Notion Band 4pm-8pm
TUESDAY - JULY 9
Wiz Witz Band 7pm-10pm
THURSDAY - JULY 11
Doug Jennings 5pm-8pm
FRIDAY - JULY 12
The Company Band 8pm-12am
SATURDAY - JULY 13
Twisted Livin Band 4:30pm-7:30pm
X-Stream Band 8pm-12am
SUNDAY - JULY 14
Brandon Ireland Band 4pm-8pm
DJ TRIVIA MONDAY 7pm-9pm
OPEN MIC WEDNESDAY 8pm-12am
Now Serving Pizza
Enjoy Breakfast with a View! Now Serving Brunch Sat. Sun. 10am-2pm
June 28 was also International Pride Day.
Since opening in 2018, Hard Rock Atlantic City has donated millions to over 500 community organizations in Atlantic City and the surrounding Atlantic County area.
In addition to philanthropic efforts, Hard Rock Atlantic City celebrated their anniversary with entertainment,
fireworks and casino promotions.
Sixth Anniversary Sand Sculpture- Hard Rock Atlantic City is currently featuring a 20-foot guitar-shaped commemorative sand sculpture created by world-renowned sandcastle sculpture artist John Gowdy. The sculpture will be on display throughout the summer.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
KARAOKE THURSDAY 8:30pm -12:30am
ENJOY OUR OUTDOOR DECK
By Howard Barbanel
Welcome to the July 4th weekend – a time of beaches, barbeques, ball games and also a time to space-out watching a great movie, especially if it rains on your parade for a day or two. Here are seven superb cinematic options that I highly recommend:
In probably the most potent collaboration between Japan and Germany since World War II, the creative energies of acclaimed and multiple award-winning director Wim Wenders (“Paris, Texas”, “Buena Vista Social Club,” “Wings of Desire”) and Japanese screenwriter Takuma Takasaki combine to create a breathtakingly beautiful and moving work of art. The film could be also titled “Zen and the Art of l avatory Maintenance.”
Starring Kōji yakusho as Hirayama, a painfully withdrawn middle-aged man who cleans public toilets in modern-day Tokyo. At first, we seem to be spying on a life of quiet desperation but as the film progresses we see it’s a quiet life of serenity, almost as though he were tending a Japanese rock garden or a grove of bonsai trees. The ancient Japanese way of the Samurai gets channeled into the most mundane tasks. Wax on, wax off.
yakusho carries the first half of the film practically solo and with minimal dialog. His face does the talking. It will remind you of the marooned segment with Tom Hanks in “Castaway.” The film unfolds over a couple of weeks and we also get to see fabulous stylized night dream sequences which separate each day from the next. More characters are gradually introduced as the movie progresses and each adds an important dimension to the story. yakusho won the Best Actor Award at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival and the film was nominated for Best Foreign Film at the 96th Academy Awards.
with me as I’m sure it will for many of the unattached.
Deeply moving, uplifting, spiritual and reverential, “Perfect Days” is really a perfect movie. Incidentally, “Perfect Days” has a very cool 60s and 70s soundtrack too.
There’s nothing Zen whatsoever in this latest iteration of the seemingly infinite installments of the “Apes” franchise that began way back in 1968 with Charlton Heston as marooned astronaut Taylor who finds himself on a planet run by apes. The producers have done a couple of prequel reboots and this movie predates the ’68 granddaddy in the story line perhaps a couple of hundred years in the “Apes” timeline. There are some noted visual homages to that original flick but otherwise this is an original, stand-alone story.
“Kingdom” takes place an unspecified number of years after the last “Apes” flick, “War for the Planet of the Apes,” which starred Woody Harrelson and Andy Serkis (2017). In the timeline of the past three movies, most of humanity has been wiped out by an unspecified man-made virus that either left most humans without the ability to speak and with diminished brain function or killed them altogether. Some intelligent humans have managed to survive the virus either by developing a resistance or by quarantining themselves from the world.
As a single man of a certain age who also has his ingrained daily rituals and schedule, the film resonated
As with a great many Hollywood action movies today, the heroic figure is often a woman, clearly with the feminist objective of redressing 80 or 90 years of leading men and damsels in distress. In “Kingdom,” that character is played with an American accent by British actress Freya Allan whose most notable prior experience was as Princess Cirilla of Cintra in the Netflix series The Witcher. Allan is on a mission to retrieve some prior human technology for her colony of locked-down intelligent humans. Concurrent with this is the story of a community of sensitive, peaceful eagle-breeding and farming apes which
↘Continued on 88 July 3, 2024
is devastated by a megalomanic gorilla, the self-styled “Proximus Caesar,” (the “King” in “Kingdom”) played by Kevin Durand. The new Caesar has a marauding army of gorilla cavalry rounding up other, weaker apes to serve as slaves in his effort to somehow pry open a human fortress chock full of weapons and tech.
The would-be leader of the peaceful ape survivors, Noa, played by Owen Teague and Freya Allan’s “Nova/Mae” come together while fleeing from the marauding forces of Proximus Caesar and eventually forge an alliance. Much of the movie takes off from there.
Definitely not a kid’s film. It’s actually kind of dark and at times violent and brutal with no neat, happy ending (probably for sequel purposes) for either apes or humans. If you’ve watched the prior nine “Apes” movies you’ll definitely enjoy it as will fans of sci-fi dystopia.
The 79 year-old Aussie filmmaker George Miller has been making “Mad Max” movies since 1979. Miller has directed every single one of the five “Max” films. The original and first two sequels ignited the career of Mel Gibson.
For those among the uninitiated, the “Mad Max” saga takes place in a heavily dystopian post-nuclear apocalyptic Australian desert hinterland where might makes right and everyone seems strung-out on some kind of uppers or l SD. The culture revolves around souped-up and jerry-rigged cars, trucks and motorcycles careening into each other in a giant demolition derby with power as the winning prize.
In 2015, Miller produced one of his very best “Max” films, “Mad Max: Fury Road” starring Charlize Theron as Furiosa and Tom Hardy replacing Gibson as Max. The film “Furiosa” is a sequel that is actually a prequel, taking place 15 to 20 years prior to the story in “Fury Road.” It is the Furiosa origin story and Max literally isn’t in the picture. Anya Taylor Joy (“The Queen’s Gambit” for which she won a Golden Globe Award) plays the younger Furiosa character years before she becomes Theron’s version of the character. Miller also brings back most of the cast of crazed character actors from “Fury Road” and through the miracles of AI presents them as appreciably younger than in “Fury Road” although they’re really nine years older in real life.
New to Max-land is Chris Hemsworth as Dr. Dementus, a really, really bad, bad guy. Hemsworth is brilliant in the role and is a far better Dr. Dementus in my view than as Thor, the God of Thunder in the Marvel film series.
“Furiosa” has pretty much nonstop vehicular action, special effects, violence, endless arrogance and snark. Very entertaining. “Fury Road” is a star ahead (meaning Theron) than “Furiosa,” but this is still an excellent action picture that should prompt you to start watching all five movies (if you’ve not already) so you can be plugged into the Maxverse.
Two very beloved actors each deservedly merit their own sentimental documentaries. Mary Tyler Moore on Max and Gene Wilder on Netflix. Both Moore and Wilder brought no end of joy to millions of fans and these biographies show you how and why along with the stories of how they both rose essentially from nothing and nowhere to become comedic icons.
Moore was a television force starting with the 1960s “Dick Van Dyck Show” (1961-1966) which was written and produced by the great Carl Reiner. Her career segued into “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” one of the top ten TV sitcoms of the 1970s, running from 1970-1977 and pulling the plug at the top of its ratings. There were dry spells between and after each series but also some dramatic triumphs such as the 1980 film “Ordinary People” and on Broadway where she won a Tony Award for “Whose life Is It Anyway.” Moore is also shown as very much a real human being and had more than her fair share of disappointment and tragedy. Excellent interviews and clips of Moore and a lot of the people who loved and worked with her. you’ll need a tissue.
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The late Gene Wilder was a lovable guy and “Remembering Gene Wilder” chronicles the love affair the audience had with him and his love of his craft and the pleasing that audience.
Wilder was that rare talent who could give you belly laughs and make you shed a tear all in the same performance. Gifted with impeccable comedic timing but also with a deep sense of pathos and genuine warmth, Wilder was the funny, likeable schlub who could rise to improbable heights fueled by a
neurotic mania that you couldn’t get enough of.
Sometimes how your life works out is based on both who you know and being in the right place at the right time. Talent also helps but there are plenty of talented people who go nowhere. Wilder started out on Broadway. He loved the stage and worked regularly. Hollywood wasn’t among his early dreams. By chance he did a play with Anne Bancroft in 1963. Bancroft was married to Mel Brooks. Brooks was writing a screenplay that would eventually become “The Producers,” (1967) which was Wilder’s breakout screen role. Brooks and Wilder would form a lifelong partnership and friendship that would lead to such major hits as “Blazing Saddles” and “ young Frankenstein.” Also, part of the Wilder oeuvre are “The Frisco Kid” which featured the first major role for Harrison Ford in 1979, the four movies with Richard Pryor (“Stir Crazy,” etc.) and of course his immortal role as Willy Wonka back in 1971.
“Remembering Gene Wilder” also delves heavily into his joy and heartbreak over his marriage to the late Gilda Radner. Interviews with Brooks, other colleagues and family members make this movie a love letter to one of the comedy greats of the 20th Century. ↘Continued from 88
boardwalkorgans.org
By Doug Deutsch
Here’s an event that foodies and louisiana music-loving enthusiasts (we identify as both) have long awaited: the Jersey Gumbo Cook Off (and) louisiana Music Festival, happening Monday, July 8, at The Point Tiki Bar and Restaurant in Somers Point (3 p.m. start time).
Some of the world’s most famous chefs will compete to be crowned Mardi Gras King Chef. This year features new competitors Dan luber (Greate Bay Country Club) and Tyson Merriman (Tuckahoe Inn), the latter also hails from Baton Rouge (‘home court’ advantage? lol).
Immediately following the cook off, revelers will be treated to a show by “ louisiana’s Rockin’ Fiddler,” Cajun musician Waylon Thibodeaux, who’s been performing since the age of 13 and won the louisiana state fiddle championship at the age of 16.
Tune In Turn On got to chat with the amicable Thibodeaux about a variety of topics, here’s how it went.
DD: What's the latest goings-on with Waylon Thibodeaux?
Waylon: After playing Bourbon Street for 35 years, I’m currently per-
forming on the river boats for American Cruise lines. It’s a beautiful change and I’m still promoting our louisiana culture. I’m also still touring America and loving it.
DD: Why did you decide to take up the fiddle?
Waylon: I saw Johnny Gimble and Pete Fountain perform together on “Austin City limits” and Johnny Gimble’s fiddle was talking to me. I asked my parents to get me a fiddle. They managed to get me one and I started to play louisiana music.
Renowned Louisiana Cajun fiddler Waylon Thibodeaux headlines
Tony Mart’s Jersey Gumbo Cook Off/Louisiana Music Festival July 8 in Somers Point.
DD: Someone asks you to describe your ‘Swamp Pop’ sound. What do you tell them?
Waylon: I describe Swamp Pop as music left over from the ’50s. Great jitterbug, music and slow belt buckle polishing music. I integrate Cajun, Zydeco, Swamp Pop music into what I do. High energy and lots of fun.
DD: What’s your favorite thing about touring, and your least favorite thing about touring?
Waylon: My favorite thing about touring is the same thing that I did on Bourbon Street, and what I am doing now on the river boats. Meeting new people and telling them and showing them the music of our people. Being in a new place, in a new town, meeting new people is an awesome experience. My least favorite thing about
being on the road? It costs so much damn money to be on the road. lol It’s hard to bring a band with you to stay on the road for weeks at a time. Sometimes clubs can’t or don’t want to pay money to accommodate all of this.
DD: You’re from Houma, Louisiana, which is also home to famed blues guitarist Tab Benoit, and you were part of the Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars. Want to tell us about that experience?
Waylon: The Voice of the Wetlands is a group that was put together prior to Hurricane Katrina to bring awareness of the wetlands problems to the nation. unfortunately, the hurricane showed up and showed everyone the problems. The music we play is awesome and I am proud to be a part of that group. It is awesome to share the stage with some of my heroes.
DD: You’re coming to the South Jersey area on July 8 to headline Tony Mart’s Jersey Gumbo Cook Off and Louisiana Music Festival. What can our area’s music fans expect to hear, musically speaking, from you and your band?
Waylon: I can’t wait to be in New Jersey. Gotta bring some South to our wonderful fans in the North. Tons of people have been to Jazz Fest in New Orleans and love what we do. So, it’s coming their way. It’ll be electrifying. Don’t miss it.
For more info on Jersey Gumbo Cook Off and Music Festival, visit www.tonymarts.com.
Billy Walton and Destinee Monroe also perform that day. Cook Off tasting tickets are $20. The concert is free.
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.
By Heidi Clayton
Get a jumpstart on Christmas cards with a beach photoshoot with Santa! Santa is flying down to South Jersey for Christmas in July! He will be available to pose for photos with your furry friends or children.
As a yearly fundraiser, my charity held our very popular Santa Paws photoshoot where you can bring your dogs to get a professional photo done with Santa just in time for Christmas card season. l ast year, we ran into logistical problems and were not able to pull it off.
This year, Santa agreed to stop by earlier so everyone could get their photos with plenty of time to spare before the winter holidays.
We will be teaming up with Shaun Reilly Photography for a Santa Paws Christmas in July photoshoot! Click the link below and bring us your dogs on July 16 to get a unique jumpstart on your Christmas cards this year. Enter this link to get all of the specifics: tinyurl.com/SRPHoliday. Or, visit ShaunReillyPhotography.com to learn more.
Reilly and his crew can also capture the perfect picture of your kids with Santa if (for some strange reason) dogs aren’t your thing. By the way, Reilly’s dog Nico and Nico’s mom Sia are awesome!
A portion of the fee will be donated to our tradition of giving some very special children a Merry Christmas.
A portion of the proceeds will fund festivities for the Atlantic City Rescue Mission.
In December 2015, Patrolman Michael Gavin of the Atlantic City Police Department went on a domestic call at the Atlantic City Rescue Mission’s family unit. Both of us had been police officers for some time and never knew that there were families with children living at the Mission. Through no fault of the wonderful people who run the Mission, it can be a scary place for an adult let alone a child. He was sad to learn that children would be spending Christmas there, so he took up a collection and on a whim got the kids gifts.
The following year, he floated the idea again. I thought, why not ask the amazing Toni Jordan at the Mission to get a list from the kids of what they actually wanted from Santa?
That year, there were two teenage girls living at the Mission who wanted what just about every teenager on the planet wants, which was uggs and iPads. When the list was circulated amongst the department, I noticed every gift was covered but the uggs and iPads. I had by then started Four on the Floor Dog Training and reached out to a few clients. I also enlisted Barbara Gutjahr of Boom Broadcasting to see what we could do to make these girls' Christmas wishes come true. Thanks to the generosity of several friends and clients, two teenage girls were made very happy that Christmas.
Gutjahr and I decided to start a charity that would make sure that ev-
ery year Jordan could get the Christmas wishlist from the kids and that we could deliver every single wish. We also decided we could do better than simply dressing Jared Ingenito up as Santa and going to the Mission to deliver the gifts. So, we started hosting an actual Christmas party, complete with the kids getting a police escort to the party and Santa arriving in the SWAT truck. I have been retired from
the police force now for five years and am still very committed to making sure Jordan’s kids have a magical Christmas.
What’s new with the charity this year?
This year, I am delighted to report the charity’s new name. The mission remains the same, but I have visions of making the foundation bigger and better each year.
As many of my readers know, my beloved dog Sushi passed away this year. I have renamed the charity “The Sushi Foundation” in honor of my once-in-a-lifetime dog who brought joy from her happy heart wherever she went.
you can contact me to learn more about The Sushi Foundation 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
By Eric Reich
For about a century now, most life insurance laws have been generally stagnant and therefore (for lack of a better term) reliable. This changed last week in a potentially very impactful way when the Supreme Court ruled on an ongoing case known as Connelly vs. united States, involving a buy-sell agreement between two brothers.
First, what is a buy-sell agreement? A buy-sell agreement is where parties agree to how shares of a business interest are to be sold or transferred upon one of the party’s death, disability, or retirement. Having a buy-sell in place can help eliminate potential problems that can arise during these events by agreeing to everything in advance. The issues addressed in a buy-sell agreement can include the price of the shares, who is allowed to or is compelled to
buy the shares, and the circumstances under which rights or obligations occur. In my opinion, having a buysell agreement is crucial for business owners who have partners and want the business to continue after they leave the business.
Buy-sell agreements can be funded or unfunded. A funded buy-sell typically has some mechanism to help the other party afford to buy the exiting partner’s shares. This could include a sinking fund where the partners deposit part of their distributions to an account to help fund the future buy-sell event. The most common way to fund a buy-sell, however, is to use life insurance. The way life insurance is used is for the partners to buy life (or disability) insurance policies on each other, and then use the proceeds to buy the other partners’ shares of the company out from their estate. This is known as a cross-purchase agreement.
While this is often the easier way to structure a buy-sell, in some instances, particularly when there is a larger number of partners, having everyone buy a policy on each partner can become overly complicated. In these cases, an entity purchase agreement is established instead
of a cross-purchase. The company itself buys the policy on each partner, thereby reducing the number of policies to be purchased and managed.
These are the ways that the vast majority of funded buy-sell agreements work. The surprising decision started when in the Connelly case, the IRS argued that the entity purchase of the shares of one of the deceased party's shares should add to the value of the company. The IRS claimed that since the deceased partner owns part of the company, the value of his estate should be increased by the amount of the life insurance proceeds. This is based on the idea that life insurance you personally own at your death is included in your gross estate. The unusual aspect is that it wasn’t owned by the decedent, but rather by the company that he was a part-owner of. The case was appealed in the 8th Circuit but was upheld. The case was later appealed to the Supreme Court, which upheld the decision 9-0. This ruling has major potential tax implications. In this case, the tax due was increased by almost $900,000.
So, what can we take away from the Connelly case? First, review your buy-sell agreements with your attorney to see if the Connelly decision affects you. If it does, you might want to explore a cross-purchase agreement. you’ll want to discuss this with your CPA. Next, you may want to review your life insurance policies themselves to make sure they are still structured the way you want them to be. Also, make sure that the valuation for the shares is updated and accurate. If not, seek an updated professional valuation. l astly, make
sure your documents are up to date, reflecting your intended structure and valuation.
By checking your current buy-sell agreement with the help of your CPA, attorney, and financial advisor, you could potentially save yourself a lot of headaches and potentially even more taxes.
Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, llC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/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.
Kitchen, Bathroom
Renovations
SEASONS ARE CHANGING IS YOUR SYSTEM READY?
TRUSTED SINCE 1949
By Bill Quain
This is the third column in a series that I began after returning from my 50th college reunion. I’d encourage my readers to look back over the past few weeks and join in on the conversation. We’re talking about a subject that no one seems to want to talk about – money! But it’s more than just finances. We’re talking about the real reasons for making and keeping money – so that you can get to the really important stuff in your life. This week, I’m going to continue to draw on the book “The Algebra of Wealth,” by Scott Galloway. I’ll be adding a lot of my own insights and experiences. So get comfortable (or maybe just a little uncomfortable), and
let’s talk some common sense. Take a look at this week’s title. I’m sure you’ve all heard that money can’t buy happiness, right? Well, it just isn’t true.
As Galloway points out, middle-class people are happier than lower-income people, and rich people are happier than people in the middle class. Importantly, however, there is a point of diminishing returns. At some point, having or making more money doesn’t make you happier. Everyone needs to decide where this point is for them and their families. But, let’s face it, most people in America have not reached that point yet. So let’s talk about making more of the green stuff because you deserve to be happier! Fighting because there’s too much money?
We all know that money is the No. 1 reason for couples to fight. Poor people are twice as likely to get divorced compared to wealthy couples. But what are they fighting about?
Are they fighting because there is too much money? Does he come home at night and yell, “Honey, you left the hundred-dollar bills all over the living
room last night. I specifically asked you to put them away with our gold bars!” Not likely. Couples fight when there isn’t enough money, and when one of them is blaming the other. you see, in our society, we don’t talk about money. Robert Kiyosaki, the author of “Rich Dad Poor Dad”, subtitled his book “What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not”. Colleges do talk about money, but…
As a college professor, I can tell you that we talk about money at almost every faculty meeting. We talk about how we need more students because we can’t pay our bills. We talk about how the state isn’t giving us enough
money. Our union is always talking about giving raises across the board, with little mention of who actually deserves it! Plus, we are always talking money to our students, with endless promos about how college is a great investment.
Surprisingly, we don’t talk to our students about how to actually make and keep money. Oh, in the business schools, we talk about how to make other people money. Except for a very few courses (like my Make Money & Pay It Forward course at Stockton university), we don’t teach our students a thing about how to become personally wealthy.
yet, everyone knows the importance of having money. There isn’t a single faculty member or administrator who isn’t thinking about money constantly, either for themselves or for the school. However, most students go through an entire college curriculum without once ever learning how to build personal wealth.
What will your average salary be?
Oh, wait… we do talk to our students about the average salary a college graduate can make, depending
by Bill Quain
on what their major is. We focus on how to get a good job. However, as I discussed in last week’s column, we shouldn’t be training students to get a job. We should be teaching them how to become successful – especially financially successful.
Whatever happened to the American Dream?
In America, we used to have a thing called “The American Dream.” Our citizens learned to seize the opportunities that are everywhere in this country. However, we didn’t promote those opportunities for opportunity’s sake. In other words, the American Dream wasn’t aimed at getting a better job. The aim was to become independent, responsible, competent, confident, and optimistic. It was meant to build a community of people just like that!
Your GPA won’t impress a CPA
After my column “Anyone Seen My last 50 years,” I heard from a number
of readers, including my cousin Tom and my college classmate Bob. Both men are very successful and had similar thoughts about my terrible GPA from college. Tom commented that nobody cared about your GPA, then or now! Bob said it wasn’t his GPA that was a problem when he went job hunting — it was his long hair! So, what did Bob do? He cut it!
At most colleges today, the emphasis is far too much on the GPA. Students take courses to check them off on their way to a degree. We need to turn this around ASAP and emphasize the dream of becoming financially sustainable.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts about my column. Send me an email to 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.
little boys and girls don slick black wet suits as they practice surfing on ocean-edge sand. Arms outstretched like seagull wings, they balance their sun-screened bodies on un-waxed surfboards while nearby parents dutifully watch their fledglings from beneath their rented yellowand-green-striped beach chairs and umbrellas.
Older ones who sea-surf with confidence wonder when their nestling understudies will leave the safety of the unwavering silt and venture into deep ocean waters to feel the thrilling thrust of undulant waves, cloaked currents, and sea-born independence.
By Jack Sweeder
When you walk the sloping deck of sand
A mile out on Higbee Beach
Where the bay exhales agitated waves
Horizon-hugging ferries
Wash cloudless skies with smoky trails
While sunbathers cast their infinite gaze to nowhere
This summer archeologist
In waterlogged sandals and shorts
Scans retreating proxigean tides for talismans
Hidden among pebbles, buried in shell hashes
My hands are skimming, digging spoons Harvesting ancestral shards of frosted glass little epiphanies with sun bleached patinas
Glowing when wet: forest green, amber, amethyst, teal Gemstones of silica, sodium and lime
A resurrection story of molten relics Written by salt air and seagrass
Waves thunderclap the beach
My spirit ear hears
My animal soul responds
Sand submits to sea
Sea submits to sky The edges of each perpetually blurred
And like our mother ocean
We give-up what we have
In twists and turns
Forever by Doug
Otto
I wash off Italy in the shower of my home in New Jersey: particles of ancient travertine caught in my sandals in the shadow of the Coliseum, the droplet which splashed and dried on my skin when I made a wish and threw a coin at Trevi Fountain, Murano’s glass rings on my fingers and Burano’s lace shawls around my shoulders, the feathers and sparkle and brightly painted lips of so many Venetian masks held against my cheeks, the unconscious change in the set of my posture as if I could reenact the sculpted perfection of David.
Italy passes through the drain and courses through the pipes where the remains of other places have also passed; I step from the shower and take refuge in the hint of quilted Tuscan fields stretched out across the tiles of my bathroom floor.
By Marya Parral
By Elisa Jo Eagan
As Independence Day, the birthday of our country, approaches, it also marks my 62nd birthday, and would have been the 94th birthday of my dear father, William Joseph Eagan, III.
My thoughts and mind drift daily, reminiscing when about when my dad introduced my family to living in Northfield, spanning more than 55 years of life experiences and memories.
My hometown journey began on May 7, 1967, when my father, mother, and I moved “offshore” from Margate to “the mainland,” settling into our beautiful new home on Henry Drive in the Birch Grove Park section of Northfield.
Our family’s offshore roots and house-hunting journey began when my
grandparents lived in linwood from 1954 to 1966.
My father served in the u nited States Air Force overseas in the Korean War, and also in Okinawa, Enewetak, Bikini Atoll, and the Marshall Islands as part of the H-bomb testing program, returning to his parents’s new linwood home.
upon his return, my dad secured a position at the Naval Air Station, working for lockheed as a federal aircraft maintenance technician. In 1958, this became NAFEC.
My father, William Joseph Eagan III, was part of the original National Aviation Facilities Experimental Testing Center team, working in research and development, and implementing experimental modifications for the what became the FAA. My dad wanted to plant roots for himself, my mother Grace, and me, to be closer to his work.
In the 1960s, a building boom saw local builders offering new construction homes to veterans and working families. Before and during the 1960s, much of the area surrounding Birch Grove Park was wooded, with horseback riding trails, farmland, and nature-filled adventures.
When I look back on my childhood in Northfield, it was, and still is, “The Great American Hometown.”
As you drive, walk, jog, or bike through town, whether on the beautifully maintained bike path, (originally a railroad transporting lumber), or meandering through Birch Grove Park’s trails – a 271-acre site that was once a lumberyard and then a brick manufacturing company before Northfield made it a park in the early 1950s – you can enjoy activities like fishing, barbecues, family picnics, evening concerts at the gazebo, and cheering on our youth playing sports on the Northfield Cardinal team fields. These activities continue to be enjoyed by families today.
I have cherished memories with family, neighbors, and friends, attending school, church, and activities, creating and maintaining lifelong relationships that span four generations in Northfield, especially at Birch Grove Park.
The Girl Scouting, Arbor Day tree plantings, garden club, the Northfield library, the Historical Society and Museum, and our grand bicentennial celebration in 1976, with the dedication of the time capsule, and the grandstand music gazebo, are just a few of the many treasured moments.
Northfield is a community that
honors its hometown heroes and veterans with celebrations like the 4th of July Parade and Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies.
As this July 4, 2024 - the 248th birthday of America - approaches, I thank my father for choosing to make Northfield our family home.
My dad, now in heaven, would have also celebrated his 94th birthday on this day (July 4, 1930 – Dec. 17, 2006).
I am grateful that I was my father's 32nd birthday present.
On the day I was born, my dad joyfully celebrated, carrying his “Wee Willy" ice-cream box on his back, selling “fudgy wudgy" and “firecracker red, white and blue" ice-cream pops on the Atlantic City Beach, giving out cigars to his lifelong friends.
We shared and celebrated every Fourth of July birthday together for 44 years, filled with festive fireworks, parades, barbecues, and most of all, love.
I treasure all my hometown memories and the house, home, neighborhood, and community that shaped me. I love Northfield and the city of Atlantic City, the place of my birth, Atlantic County, and this Shore local area where I live, work, and continue to serve daily.
God bless America and the great American hometown – our own “Mayberry” – Northfield, New Jersey, uSA. Make sure to get out and celebrate this July 4 weekend and every day with those you love and care about.
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!"
By Douglas Keefe
This article is about an experience I had a while ago and is a cautionary reminder when someone is selling collectibles or precious metals.
A woman came into my shop with a collection of old baseball cards that were inserted in cigarette packs in the early 1900’s, known to collectors as T-206 tobacco cards. She was interested in having me make an offer to purchase, which we do purchase old baseball, sport and non-sport cards. She asked if she should leave them with me, which surprised me, and I responded no, she should wait as I wouldn’t take long. I went through the cards, they were mounted in pages which made reviewing them easy, and after about 15 minutes I arrived at an amount to offer for purchase. When I made the offer, she accepted and asked when she should come back for the money. I told her I would pay her immediately, no waiting, but her questions about leaving the cards and waiting for payment had me
curious.
The story she told afterwards really raised some red flags. She had taken these cards to another dealer before showing them to me, one who claimed to deal in sports cards. When she showed them to that dealer, after a few minutes he asked if he could take them home to study them closely, to which she agreed. Several days later he called and asked if it would be OK to rearrange the cards in the pages to make it easier for him to study them, this to which she again agreed. Finally, he called and said he was ready to make an offer so she should come back to his store. His offer was $650 for all the cards, but he would need to keep them and sell them to pay her, which might take a week. In other words, she wasn’t going to get paid then. She told the dealer she was going to take them to Beachcomber for a second opinion, to which the dealer told her Beachcomber would be cheaper than he was. When she got her cards back, she noticed 3 of them were taken out of her pages and placed in individual holders.
I then understood her questions
about leaving the cards with me and wondering when she would get paid. There is so much wrong with how she was treated by that dealer (whom I won’t name), that I can’t help but wonder if she got all her cards back. First and foremost, she should have never agreed to letting this dealer “take them home” to study them. There were a less than one hundred cards, most of which were commons, so studying was not necessary. (I once appraised a collection of over 600 tobacco cards while the owner waited. It took about an hour, but the owner was with me the whole time. That collection cost me $15,000.) Then to ask to rearrange them makes remembering what was there almost impossible. Taking cards out and placing them in other holders was unnecessary and confusing, mainly because only one of the cards was a slightly premium priced card, the other two were common. And if a dealer is so undercapitalized he can’t pay immediately, he shouldn’t be buying.
When Beachcomber reviews a collection, regardless of what it is,
we want the owner to stay with us, even if it takes hours, and we never ask for the collection to be left with us. We want the owner to feel comfortable, and if there are any questions on their part, we can answer them immediately. And if our offer is accepted, we pay Immediately.
While there is no way to determine if any cards were taken or switched, the opportunity was there. I paid $2000 for the collection, I guess I wasn’t as cheap as I was accused of being.
in
since 1970 and is managed by Douglas Keefe and his wife Linda. Formerly located in the Shore Mall, they are now in their own store just west on the Black Horse Pike in Egg Harbor Township. While they no longer offer retail sales, they still do extensive buying of most collectibles and precious metals. Current information and store hours can be obtained online at beachcombercoinsinc. com.
S Q R H W U C O O B M C
V I E O U D F I W S I U R N G R Z L D T A X P I
T H R S R O A A B Z X S
I S U E C O L P S I A I
K F E E D X T M R N S T
Q I A R R Q O L E H R U
N U W Y C B P R T O A L
J E V P P S M F A L Z A
U B B A L P N U W E D Y
ACROSS
1. Reproductive cell
5. Tai's partner
8. At the stern
11. Do like phoenix
12. Person of French descent
13. It can't be refused?
15. Hand-to-hand combat weapon
16. Sty sound
17. Justin Bieber's 2015 hit
18. *Pyrotechnic display
20. De-wrinkler
21. Expression of delight
22. *"O say can you ____"
23. *One of three presidents who died on July 4
26. Gloria Gaynor's "I Will ____"
30. Turkish military leader
31. With complex decorations
34. Biblical place of bliss
35. Economic crisis
37. South American tuber
38. Gladiator's turf
39. Serum, pl.
40. Stellar
42. Humpty Dumpty did this
43. "Jeopardy" competitor, e.g.
45. Blotch or dapple
47. 34th Pres.
48. unmanned flyer
50. MXN, as in currency
52. *British monarch
56. *____ Burr, officer in Revolutionary War and VP
57. Aquarium dweller
58. Of two minds
59. *Puts John Hancock down
60. log splitter
61. Arrival times
62. Plays for pay
63. Ball in a socket
64. "____ and rave"
DOWN
1. ____ Approach in music education
2. The last Henry Tudor
3. Soviet acronym
4. Shooting star
5. Capital of Egypt
6. ____-dory
7. Varieties
8. '70s hairdo
9. "Where the Red ____ Grows"
10. "Don't ____ this at home!"
12. Pyle of "The Andy Griffith Show"
13. Willow twig
14. *"The Stars and Stripes ____"
19. What pertussis patients do
22. Johnny Cash's boy with unfortunate name
23. En ___, or all together
24. Watcher
25. a.k.a. Pleasant Island
26. *State on Old Glory
27. "That is," latin
28. like bribe-taking politician
29. Related on mother's side
32. Narrow margin of victory
33. *Stamp ____, imposed tax on American colonies
36. *One of two Presidents to sign the Constitution
38. "____ came a spider..."
40. Gobbled up
41. like libertine
44. Venerated paintings in Orthodox church
46. ____-totter
48. unpleasant airport news
49. One in Pinkerton's gallery
50. Twosome
51. Renq Descartes' "therefore"
52. Hunted animal
53. Itty-bitty bit
54. Persian Gulf country
55. Research facil.
56. Pharaoh's cobra
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 affects 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 Newsmagazine 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.
♈ Aries: Invest in your home with the intention of creating a more nurturing environment for yourself and your family. Enduring connections and bonds are fostered in a peaceful space.
♉ Taurus: you have been tuning into your own unique frequency for quite some time. Becoming more authentic is often accompanied by unexpected change. Consider where your frequency fits and plant new seeds there.
♊ Gemini: A heart-centered approach to dreaming up new resource streams will serve you. Clearing out and detaching from anything with emotional baggage can make more space for even greater potential.
♋ Cancer: To be in the shell, or not to be in the shell. That is a theme requiring attention. Remember that time inside is important for your own needs, and that time outside is essential for personal growth. Feeling through periods of uncomfortable vulnerability is the silver lining.
♌ leo: Honor any nudges about feeling the need to rest and retreat. A few days out of the spotlight to refill your own cup will refresh your energy for the new adventures ahead.
♍ Virgo: Being an active participant in a deep healing journey greatly serves you and others. The experience is a gift that can be wrapped into a new vision. Set clear intentions
now for how you want this vision to grow and mature in the future.
♎ libra: This is a good time to think about your job or career, and any potential changes you wish to make. Seek out opportunities that support your authenticity, relationships and more balance and peace within yourself.
♏ Scorpio: Studying or doing something that generates a sense of fulfillment every day is medicine for your soul. Pursue the opportunity that feels right and will expand your mind.
♐ Sagittarius: Keeping your deepest desires a secret can inhibit growth. Consider a new way to share and communicate your feelings rather than keeping them close to your heart.
♑ Capricorn: your close friendships and partnerships are being infused with fresh energy. Do something nourishing together! If you’re seeking a new relationship, it’s time to be clear about who you want. An ideal match will feel like home.
♒ Aquarius: It’s a good time to begin a new daily practice or routine that improves your overall health and well-being. Exploring and utilizing local resources may provide the best fit, and something to which you have a natural affinity.
♓ Pisces: light is shining through
to a new creation. Tune into your heart and inner knowing to tap into whatever is wanting to come through you. Trust the information and let the seeds be planted.
Our holiday weekend celebrations may be touched with a little more tenderness and emotional nourishment due to this week’s Cancer new moon on Friday, July 5 (6:57 p.m.). Surprising, innovative insights into new ways to heal relationship wounds may be revealed. Honor what the heart desires and move forward with optimism! See the above horoscope for your Rising Sign for more specific information. If you’re unsure what your Rising Sign is, you can learn more in my info/tutorial video on our Sea Goddess Healing Arts youTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com.
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
By Celeste Costante
It's summertime at the Jersey Shore and I’m dedicated to finding the freshest items at budget prices. With school officially out, I've received numerous requests from island visitors and working moms who need an extra hand.
For some summer essentials, I visited Jamaican Me Crazy in Margate. Roz and Alexa have always welcomed me to shop in their store, going live for clients, taking videos, and accommodating special requests. They consistently stock the newest trending gadgets, beach chairs, and toys, boogie boards, pop-it toys, shovels, and buckets. As always, I had a great experience in the store.
some coupons I had from the reps. you really can’t beat that!
A few items were out of stock, so I popped over to Target to complete the rest. July marks my fifth year in business and I am grateful for all the
Next, I headed to our local ShopRite in Somers Point. With watermelon priced at $3.88 and corn on the cob at eight ears for $2, I easily stayed within budget. I suggested Dixie paper plates to reduce dishwashing since they were on sale for $1.99 per pack—a great deal for stocking up. With the recent heat wave, I also recommended taking advantage of the Gatorade deal: three eight-packs for $19.99 in a variety of flavors, plus
support. I hope to continue showing Atlantic County the best deals and prices each week.
is the owner and operator of Shopping by the Shore LLC. Celeste has many years of experience and thousands of reviews making her the personal shopper expert if this area. Download her free app https://shop.dumpling.us/ shoppingbytheshorellc
