August Events, Live Music Lineup Injured Teen Comes Home to Fanfare Art of Sur ng Festival Rolls In Towns Ready for National Night Out A Look Inside OC's New Haunted Hotel
The timeless power of music
From the Editor
When my mom expressed interest in attending the Hank Williams Jr. concert, I have to admit, I was less than enthused. "Hank who?" I asked.
However, being the dutiful daughter that I am (and slightly curious), I agreed to accompany her to the show. Little did I know how great it would be!
From the moment the first notes echoed through the Etess Arena in Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, I was captivated. At 75, Williams' voice was remarkably strong and powerful, commanding the stage with a presence that belied his years.
For a solid 90 minutes, he delivered a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. It was then that I realized what a legendary musician he truly is. t he son of the iconic
Hank Williams, Hank Jr. has carved out his own place in music history, standing tall as a star in his own right. What struck me the most that night wasn’t just the music or the performance itself—it was the audience. the arena was a sea of faces, spanning generations. Fans in their 20s, 30s, and 40s stood right alongside those in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s. Everyone was united in their enthusiasm, singing along and dancing to the music, some even with canes in hand. It was a powerful sight to behold, underscoring a profound truth: music has the unique ability to transcend age and time.
As we approach another contentious election season, the divisions within our country can feel more pronounced than ever. Political debates often highlight our differences. Music offers a unique remedy to this division. It serves as a universal language that can unite us, regardless of our political affiliations. In the midst of our differences, music reminds us of
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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 of Somers Point beach concert by John Loreaux
month, it rekindled our love of music.
that evening with Hank Williams Jr. was a testament to the timeless power of music. Watching my mom relive her youth and seeing younger fans discover the magic of a classic artist was an eye-opening experience. It reminded me that while musical tastes may evolve and genres may change, the core of what makes music so special remains the same. It’s about connection, emotion, and the shared human experience.
our shared humanity and provides common ground where we can come together and connect on a deeper level.
When my husband and I were dating (many years ago), we connected over our shared love of classic rock. Late-night listening sessions of Pink Floyd and the g rateful Dead forged a bond that words couldn’t. When we saw the Rolling stones in concert last
As we continue to navigate our ever-changing world, it’s comforting to know that music remains a constant—a bridge between generations, and a source of joy and inspiration.
thank you for reading, and may your life be filled with music that speaks to your soul (and maybe gets your feet tapping, too).
see you at a local beach concert! Peace & Love, Cindy
Hank Williams Jr. performed July 26 at Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.
Expect August to be warmer, damper than average
By Meteorologist Joe Martucci
Our final month of climatological summer is here: August. For many, perhaps for you reading this now, it’s prime vacation time. Whether it’s right here at the Jersey s hore or joining what seems like everyone out in Europe, I hope the next month brings you memories to last a lifetime.
I can’t do much on the European weather side of things. However, I can talk about what you can expect here at the shore this upcoming month. Let’s dive into it.
August starts with inland heat wave No. 4
three days of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or greater temperatures defines a heat wave here. Aug. 1-4 should do just that inland. the hottest day should be thursday, with widespread highs in the mid-90s. the heat index
will peak in the 100s for a period of time during the afternoon as well. Even the shore will sizzle a bit, as winds from the west-southwest kick away the cooling sea breeze. Look for highs in the mid to upper 80s. Yes, bugs will be present, too.
Friday will be a bit less hot but oppressively humid. the immediate coastline will have refreshing breezes, and less bugs, though. Winds will be out of the south.
saturday and sunday will hover around 90 degrees for an inland high, cooler at the shore. t he humidity will make it feel sultry. Expect a few showers and storms each day, but neither will be a washout.
If you don’t have air conditioning, sleeping will be tough at night. Overnight lows will be in the 70s. A few spots near the bay won’t fall below 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Forecast for the remainder of August the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s August forecast is “leaning above” the average for both temperatures and precipitation. Really, this means there’s a 40-50% chance of heat and rainfall being above average as compared to near or below average. It’s split
three ways.
For the immediate coast, average high temperatures range from around 80 degrees at the beginning of the month to the upper 70s at the end of it. Overnight lows hover around 70 degrees.
For those inland, the average high falls from the mid-80s to the low 80s as the month goes on. Overnight lows fall from the upper 60s to low 60s.
there’s between a 20% and 39% chance of rain on any given day in the region.
By Aug. 20, though, we enter our driest time of the year. this lasts until about sept. 25. Most days have just between a 15% and 25% chance of rain.
the only real standout feature I see for the Jersey shore this month is tropical moisture. this will likely be from a dying tropical system passing through the middle of the month. so, be on the lookout for heavy rain at some point then.
speaking of the tropics, it’s going to get busy in a hurry. About 90% of
tropical cyclones happen after Aug. 1 during hurricane season. With Colorado state university predicting 25 storms to have a name and just three occurring so far, it should be busy.
Shore Summer Weekend Weather Report Card
I gave my second ‘A’ of the summer in the report card this past weekend! sure, sunday was pretty cloudy. However, Friday and saturday did more than enough to give the top mark.
t his now puts our cumulative grade point average at a 3.3 for the summer semester, a ‘B-plus’.
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
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s August forecast for temperatures (left) and precipitation (right).
Paid for by Ruffu for Commissioner, PI Box 3039, Margate NJ
Famed Hydrangea Trail lives on
Let It Grow
By Tammy Thornton
With its motto, “ t he trail shall Prevail,” the Hydrangea trail continues to grow throughout Atlantic City. Harkening back to the famed, original Hydrangea trail of the 1940s - 1970s, the trail has been reimagined and re-established as Hydrangea trail 2.0. Now in the third year of its three-year plan, Hydrangea trail 2.0 celebrates our beloved coastal flower while beautifying the community of Atlantic City. the group’s stated goal is to encourage, “knowledge of history and horticulture, conservation of native and introduced plants, and
appreciation for the role of flowers to reduce stress, create beauty, fuel community pride, and attract visitors as well as residents.”
In year one, the volunteers of the non-profit group, Inlet Hydrangea trail Volunteers (IHt V), worked to reestablish the trail. they began by planting 100 hydrangeas in Historic gardner’s Basin in Atlantic City.
In 2023, the group grew and
installations extended beyond the Inlet. they held their first fundraiser
in January 2023 and held a Mother’s Day hydrangea sale at the Absecon Lighthouse in May. t hey also participated in various community events including an Earth Day celebration, farmers markets, and working with different student groups throughout the region. In June of 2023, the IHt V donated six hydrangeas for the Absecon Lighthouse garden facing Vermont Avenue.
Now in their third year, the group has grown by leaps and bounds. In April, Hydrangea trail 2.0 held its second annual fundraiser at the Cardinal Restaurant in Atlantic City. they also received a grant from the Xerces society for Invertebrate Conservation for the Mid-Atlantic wildflower kit. this kit includes native wildflowers that support local bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects in the Mid-Atlantic region. In June, the wildflowers were planted at the Cardinal Restaurant on New York Avenue, because its location serves as a midtown connection between gardens at either end of the city. the citywide Hydrangea trail 2.0 begins in the Atlantic City Inlet and is centered in gardner’s Basin. this is where you will find the Carriage House, home base for Hydrangea trail 2.0. Visitors to the Carriage House can meet with volunteers and learn about the history and future of the trail. In June, signs that help tell the story of the Hydrangea trail were installed on the Carriage House doors. In partnership with the Inlet Community Development Corporation, gardner’s Basin, and the Atlantic City Arts Foundation, the group also completed the “Inlet Planter Pots” project. Local and professional artists painted 22 small, medium, and large flower pots to beautify the community. Hydrangea trail 2.0 is now on the map. Ht2.0 markers can be found near businesses, community parks, and private homes. Each site is marked with these special signs with the Ht2.0 logo. spot the marker, and you will know you are close to an installation along the newly established Hydrangea trail.
In addition to continuing hydrangea installations throughout the city, Hydrangea trail 2.0 is also offering presentations from Rutgers Master gardeners about identifying and caring for hydrangeas, including how to prune them. the first presentation was held July 15. t hey will also be offering the event at the Amphithe -
ater at gardner’s Basin on Aug. 13 at 4 p.m. and sept. 10 at 6 p.m. If you would like more information about Hydrangea trail 2.0 or some of the upcoming events, contact gail Karslo at gailfromgardensofac@gmail.com.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
New signs installed at the Carriage House located in Gardner’s Basin.
One of the beautifully painted pots in Gardner’s Basin. This pot was painted by Heather Deegan Hires.
Good food is cooking again at former Voltaco’s location
Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
Ocean City has lost some iconic businesses in recent years such as Wards Pastry, which would have been celebrating its 100th birthday, and Voltaco’s take out restaurant, which would have been 70 this year. the good news is Bill Patroni is the new owner of the former Voltaco’s 957 West Ave. location. He bought the place in May and reopened under a new name on July 1.
t he new name is Patroni’s 957 West. Bill, along with his brother Michael, daughter Mia and sister gabrielle, have assembled a great team which includes several of the key employees from Voltaco’s to carry on the phenomenal tradition and add to
it with their own personal style.
It’s the old adage that if it’s not broken don’t fix it, but add on if you can make it better.
Bill, who is originally from Absecon and since 2012, from Ventnor, had never vacationed in Ocean City so he was not totally familiar with the tradition and success of Voltaco’s. He was pleasantly surprised and had quite a wake-up call with the flood of customers. Bill said he has received a great warm welcome from past customers. He knows he has a lot to live up to, which he has done so far.
Bill’s background is related to the food and entertainment industry as he owns a go-kart facility in Delaware. this was a great test, but the experience with the new Patroni’s brings it all to a new level. there have been many bumps, but all in all it has been smoother than expected.
Every day they hear customers saying that they have been coming to Voltaco’s for 20, 30, and even 50 years. they continue saying they have
big shoes to fill, but they all wish him the best of luck and are happy something similar has replaced Voltaco’s. the bottom line is if you are looking for fantastic Italian food, there is
a new sheriff in Ocean City. At Patroni’s you can get all of the delicious pasta dishes and lasagna, along with a wide variety of subs and sandwiches. Your tastebuds will water over absolutely fabulous classic dishes such as chicken parm, homemade eggplant parm, chicken cacciatore, meatballs and much more.
stop in, call 609-938-1568 or go on Facebook. the hours are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. see patronisoc.com.
gypsea Beauty is another new business in Ocean City that is a must see. the boutique, holistic spa specializes in natural nail and skin care, self-care and coming soon, massage therapy.
Owner Marisa Miller is a lifelong Ocean City local who has been in the industry for over 25 years including high-end spas.
When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down salons and spas, Marisa began traveling to clients’ homes and turning their living rooms, kitchens and porches into relaxing spas where she quickly gained a loyal following. Marisa has been a huge advocate for natural, clean living for the majority of her career and once she became a solo entrepreneur, she was able to break the mold and offer her clients the kind of products and services she truly believes in.
Everything used and retailed is carefully vetted. It has to meet her high standards of having a clean ingredient list, made by ethical and sustainable companies.
Marisa joined the Beehive studio on Asbury Avenue in Ocean City in May of 2022 where she pampered clients for the past two years before moving to her new location at the Riverboat Mansion at 800 Wesley Ave. Her experience and dedication to quality and a passion for her craft is manifested in all she does.
You will be totally pleased with her unsurpassed attention to detail and care. treat yourself to the best spa service in the city. stop in or go online at gypseabeauty.com.
You deserve to be treated by the best.
Councilman Terry Crowley, County Commissioner Melanie Collette, Councilman Sean Barnes, Bill Patroni (owner), Mike Patroni (owner), Gabrielle Patroni- Lamonaca, Steve Patroni, Bill Patroni(father), Mayor Jay Gillian and Cricket Frank.
EHT teen welcomed home by local first responders following tragic accident
By Julia Train
On thursday, July 25, Egg Harbor township residents saw a police procession traveling down Ocean Heights Avenue and wondered about what was going on.
t hat cavalcade was welcoming EHt resident Emily Davis, 15, home after she spent about three months in the hospital following an accident where she was struck by a tow truck while riding her bike.
On May 8, Emily was bicycling on Ocean Heights Avenue with her brother and a family friend when she fell off her bike and into the path of a tow truck.
After the accident, Emily was transported to a local hospital and then transferred via helicopter to Cooper Medical Center due to the
extent of her injuries—which included broken legs, fractured pelvis and
HELP PROTECT VULNERABLE ADULTS
collapsed lungs, among others.
During her stay in the hospital, Emily remained in critical condition in the pediatric intensive care unit where she had to endure multiple blood transfusions and surgeries to stabilize her condition.
the procedures included vascular surgery to repair her femoral artery and blood flow to her leg, intestinal removal with reattachment and repairing her pelvis with the aid of plates and screws.
s arah Harrison, a friend of the Davis Family, organized a goFundMe on behalf of Danielle Davis for Emily’s recovery.
“It goes without saying that both Emily’s parents, Danielle and Jerry, have put life on hold to be with Emily and provide comfort to Emily’s brothers, Dylan and Jake, during this time,” wrote Harrison on the g oFundMe page. “ the blessing is [that] testing has shown Emily’s brain function remains intact.”
On June 13, Danielle Davis posted an update, thanking the donors for their generosity.
Emily’s breathing and stomach
Emily Davis is greeted by local first responders as she is wheeled down her sidewalk.
tubes were removed and she remained in the trauma ICu until being discharged into an inpatient rehabilitation facility.
two weeks before, Emily had to have her right leg amputated despite every effort to preserve it, in order to save her life.
After removal, the doctors were able to find the source of an infection she had been fighting behind her leg in her pelvis.
“ they would not have found it otherwise,” Emily’s mother wrote. “ since the amputation she has been steadily improving, (we say this cautiously as
the last five weeks has been quite a roller coaster ride).”
On July 25, Emily was welcomed home with a police procession that started at the hospital and ended at her house.
Family, friends and first responders, including Atlantic City K9 Officer Michael Braxton, welcomed her home. Braxton lost his leg in a motorcycle accident in June 2013 and is
the first ever amputee to be an active police officer.
t here were signs in her front lawn, with welcome home and “get better” messages from local officers. EHt emergency medical technicians greeted and clapped for Emily as she was pushed in her wheelchair down the sidewalk along the front of her house.
As of tuesday, July 30, the goFundMe has raised $23,718 of the $40,000 goal. It can be found here: https:// www.gofundme.com/f/ support-emily-daviss-road-to-recovery
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
Emily waves to those greeting her on her lawn.
Emily is welcomed home with signs on her lawn.
National Night Out
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Absecon ▶6 p.m.
Pitney Park East Pitney Rd. & Crestview Ave.
Join the members of the Absecon Police Department for free food, fun, and live music. Over 35 vendors and organizations will be in attendance, along with demonstrations from the Atlantic County Regional sWAt team, Absecon Fire Department, and a helicopter flyover.
Atlantic City ▶5 – 8 p.m.
Oscar McClinton Park 201 N. New Hampshire Ave.
Join the Atlantic City Police Department and City of Atlantic City for a fun filled event, with appearances by the ACPD sWAt, AC Fire Department, ACPO, AC Police Association, Atlantic County toys for Kids, along with other organizations. there will be raffles for bicycles and helmets, a K9 demonstration, music by DJ K-AVE, and free hamburgers and hot dogs. All kids must be accompanied by an adult.
Brigantine
▶6 – 9 p.m.
26th street Ball Field
Join the men and women of the Brigantine Police Department for a fun night out, with local vendors, games, food, police hayride, sWAt demonstrations, K9 officers, and an outdoor movie.
Egg Harbor Township ▶6 – 9 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Park 2153 Ocean Heights Ave.
Join the Egg Harbor township Police Department for their annual community event. there will be plenty of giveaways and games from community organizations, nonprofits, and businesses, along with food trucks and snack stands, free activities, live music, a rock-climbing wall, slides, face painting, carnival games, displays and demonstrations. Plus, enjoy a dazzling fireworks display at dusk.
Galloway
▶5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
galloway Municipal Complex 300 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd.
Join the galloway township Police Department for an evening of games, food, and fun, along with a 50/50 drawing, and entertainment. there will be demonstrations from local Police, Fire, EMs , sWAt, K9, and various aviation units.
Hamilton Township
▶6 – 9 p.m.
food trucks, face painting, bounce houses, music by Danny Eyer, and giveaways, along with a dazzling fireworks display at dusk.
Linwood
▶5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Memorial Field Wabash Ave.
save the date and join Linwood Police Department for an evening in the community with kids’ activities, demonstrations, businesses, and community organizations.
Northfield
▶thursday, Aug. 8, 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Birch g rove Park
Join members of the Northfield Police Department and the community in this fun-filled evening. there will be plenty of activities for the kids, food, entertainment, and community resources.
Pleasantville
▶5 – 8 p.m.
tilton Rd. & Langston Ave.
Join the City of Pleasantville for this annual community event, with free food and snacks, youth activities, a live DJ, face painting, food trucks, free ice cream, and more. Plus, meet K9 titus and check out the community resource vendors in attendance.
Somers Point
▶5:30 – 8 p.m.
Kennedy Park the somers Point Police Department will host a free community policing event. Bring your beach chairs and head to JFK Park for an evening of live music, food trucks, local vendors, face painting, cornhole, g elly Ball, and a bounce house.
Ventnor
▶5 – 8 p.m.
Newport Avenue Beach
gaskill Park 40 Farragut Ave.
Join the township of Hamilton’s National Night Out for an evening of
Enjoy a fun night out with the community and meet members of the Police, Fire, OEM, Beach Patrol, and Administration from Ventnor City. there will be plenty of activities for all to enjoy, including food trucks, kid’s activities, and a movie on the beach.
All events are scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6, except where noted.
Egg Harbor Township Police Explorers pose for a photo with mascot.
Farmers Markets
Brigantine Farmers Market
▶saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Brigantine Community school parking lot sheridan Blvd.
the Brigantine Farmers Market will be open to customers on saturdays, rain or shine, until Labor Day weekend. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket.
EHT Community Farmers Market
▶sundays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Atlantic County Library 1 swift Dr.
Just Organics Marketplace and Honeytree Health host a Community Farmers Market on sundays, featuring a variety of local pesticide-free farmers, food vendors, artists, crafters, music, and fun activities. support family farmers. Now through sept. 1. For more information, visit thehoneytree.net or e-mail wellness@thehoneytree.net.
Galloway Green Market
▶thursdays, 4 – 7 p.m.
Historic smithville Village g reene 615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
g o g reen galloway hosts their weekly g reen Market, t hursdays through s ept. 5, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates.
Margate Farmers Market
▶thursdays, 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 thursdays through Aug. 29. For more information, visit margatehasmore.com.
Ocean City Farmers Market
▶Wednesdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Ocean City tabernacle g rounds
Asbury Avenue from Fifth to sixth streets
Visit dozens of vendors on the grounds of the tabernacle, and crafters in the street at s ixth & Asbury Ave. Wednesdays through sept. 4. For more information, call 1-800-BEACH-NJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.
Somers Point Farmers Market
▶saturdays, 8 a.m. 12 p.m. somers Mansion 1000 shore Rd.
somers Point Farmers Market is open s aturdays on the grounds of the beautiful and historic s omers Mansion. For more information, go to visitsomerspoint.com.
Ventnor City Farmers Market
▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
st. James Church Newport & Atlantic Ave.
t he 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.
Multiday events
Art of Surfing Festival
Events and Happenings
▶thurs. Aug. 1 – saturday, Aug. 3
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Board -
walk the 23rd Annual Art of surfing festival is a free family event featuring original art from surfing’s biggest names, along with live music, and a chance to meet artists from across the country. More information is available at www.facebook.com/ artofsurfingfestival.
Boardwalk Art Show
▶Friday, Aug. 2 – sunday Aug. 4
Ocean City Boardwalk 6th – 14th
st. the 61st Annual Boardwalk Art show presented by the Ocean City Arts Center brings leading artists from throughout the East Coast together to exhibit and sell their work. the show will take place Fri. Aug. 2 & sat. Aug. 3 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., and sun. Aug. 4 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The Beach Boys
▶Monday, Aug. 5 & tuesday, Aug. 6, 6 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
the Beach Boys arrive in Ocean City for two nights and four incredible shows. Produced by BRE Presents. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.ocnj.us/ summerConcert series.
GREASE presented by the OC Pops and Ocean City Theatre Company
▶tuesday, Aug. 6 – thursday, Aug. 15
Hughes Performing Arts Center 6th st. & Atlantic Ave. Ocean City Based at Rydell High in 1959, the hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and gum-snapping “Pink Ladies” evoke the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical, recalling the sounds of Buddy Holly, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley that became the soundtrack of a generation. upcoming showtimes are tue. Aug. 6 & Wed. Aug. 7, & Fri. Aug 9 at 7:30 p.m. and thur. Aug. 8 at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, visit www. oceancityvacation.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.
Beach Walks in Ocean City
▶tuesdays 9 a.m., Wednesdays 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.
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.
Thursday, August 1
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.
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.
Ocean City Fishing Club Open House
▶6 – 8 p.m.
14th street Fishing Pier
Rescheduled from July 25. Join the OCFC for their annual Open House. Visitors are asked to bring non-perishable food items or to make a cash donation to help feed the needy. A second Open House is scheduled for thursday, Aug. 8, from 6 – 8 p.m.
Thrilling Thursdays Movie at the Beach
▶7 p.m.
g ranville and Huntington Ave. Beach
It’s thrilling thursdays in Margate. Enjoy a free movie on the beach behind the Bloom Pavilion. this week’s feature film is the “ the Little Mermaid” (2023). Arrive at 6:30 p.m. for free fun activities and giveaways, while supplies last. Learn more at www.margatehasmore.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. this donation-based class is open to all.
Friday, August 2
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) 398-6900. Margate Memorials Lifeguard Races
▶6:30 p.m.
Decatur Ave. Beach
the Margate Memorials are a favorite among lifeguards, locals, and athletes of all ages. the event is one of the few to see beach patrols from Brigantine down to Cape May in one location. the races include a 1 Mile Doubles Row, Half Mile swim, and 1000 Ft. singles Row. the event is free to attend. Learn more at www. margatehasmore.com.
Ocean Drone Show
▶9 p.m.
the Park at Ocean Casino Resort 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Enjoy a spectacular show created from illuminated, synchronized, and choreographed drones arranging themselves in various aerial formations. Watch this breathtaking display from the Park, located on the lobby level of Ocean Casino Resort.
Saturday, August 3
Tuckahoe River Paddle Race & Poker Run Fundraiser
▶8 a.m.
upper township Municipal Beach
Mosquito Landing Rd. tuckahoe
Join the upper township Rescue squad for a fun day on the water, with racing divisions in canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. there will also be a Poker Run with Cash Prizes, along with a 50/50 and kayak raffle. Registration is open at www.upperrescue. com/paddle. Call (609) 408-0686 for more information.
Aquarium at the Library
▶10:30 a.m.
Longport Public Library 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Kids and parents are invited to see, and touch, some creatures from the aquarium. Please call (609) 4877403 to register or learn more. Angels in Motion Purse Bingo
▶6 p.m.
Our Lady of sorrows Church 724 Maple Ave. Linwood
tickets are $35 and includes ten games, four boards per game, along with a basket and 50/50 raffle. Bring a blessing bag item and get a free game board. Outside food and drinks are allowed. tickets can be purchased through Venmo or text (609) 2147090. For more information, please email aim.angelsinmotionnj@gmail. com.
Comedy Night Fundraiser in Margate
▶7 p.m.
Dominick A. Potena Performing Arts Center 23 Monmouth Ave.
Join the Margate Education Foundation for an evening of comedy featuring Richie Redding & Friends. tickets are $55 and can be purchased online at www.margateschools.org. Doors open at 6:30. Food truck ven -
dors and cocktails will be on-site and open to the public from 5 – 9 p.m.
Tropicana Atlantic City Fireworks
▶10 p.m.
Iowa Ave. and the Beach
Catch tropicana Atlantic City’s spectacular fireworks show at 10 p.m. s aturdays through Aug. 31. Fireworks are launched from the beachfront and can be viewed along the boardwalk.
Sunday,
August 4
Zumba at the Library
▶11 a.m.
Longport Public Library 2305
Atlantic Ave.
Dance for fitness with the Longport Library. Please call (609) 4877403 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. t his week, g rammy nominee and seven-time Dove Award winner steve green takes the stage. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
A Musical Night of Stage & Screen with Sara Maimone
▶7:30 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
After selling out her 2023 Holiday show with Maestro Vince Lee and the OC Pops, Ocean City’s sara Maimone invites you to enjoy a night of popular film compositions and tony Award winning Broadway arrangements. spotlighting some of the greatest composers and lyricists through sara’s score, this is a night of music you will not want to miss. t ickets
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and more information are available at www.ocnj.us/boxoffice.
Monday, August 5
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) 398-6900. We Walk Somers Point
▶8:30 a.m.
somers Point City Hall 1 E. West Jersey Ave.
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.
Red Cross Blood Drive
▶10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Royal suites Healthcare and Rehabilitation 214 W. Jimmie Leeds Rd. galloway
urgent Donations Needed. Call Diane Conover at (609) 748-9900 ext.
1312 to sign up or to the RedCross. org website.
JFS Open House
▶11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Downbeach Ventnor, Margate, and Longport
Hosted by Jewish Family service, this highly-anticipated event will provide hundreds of guests the rare opportunity to tour several luxurious Downbeach homes, each with stateof-the-art gourmet kitchens, custom woodworking, unique décor and lighting. Attendees will enjoy a complimentary lunch and dessert, along with raffle drawings and an online auction. Proceeds benefit the Lynn Kramer Village by the shore. tickets are available by visiting the Events page at www.jfsatlantic.org.
EHT Monday Morning Madness
▶11 a.m.
Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater in tony Canale Park
Presented by EH t Recreation. Enjoy free weekly family entertainment at tony Canale Park. this week, Ventriloquist Justin thomas will take the stage. Visit www.ehtrec.com or www.facebook.com/EHtRecreation for more information and updates in the event of weather.
Summer Author Series: Christina Baker Kline
▶6:30 p.m.
Longport Public Library 2305
Atlantic Ave.
t he Longport Library will host its author series, featuring Martha Hall Kelly, author of the bestselling book “Lilac g irls.” t his program will be held at the gazebo behind Borough Hall. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more. Rain date: tuesday, Aug. 6.
Somers Point
Kid’s Concert Series
▶6:30 p.m.
William Morrow Beach
Join somers Point every Monday for an evening of family fun on the beach. t his week, get ready for a Royal Princess Coronation Ceremony in a Free Princess show presented by Let’s Party Events. there will also be free face painting. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ somersPoint.
Tuesday, August 6
Pamper Scamper
▶9 a.m.
6th st. & Boardwalk, Ocean City
Join the City of Ocean City for their annual baby crawling race. Registration is free and begins at 8:30 a.m. the contest begins at 9 a.m. at 6th st. Beach. For babies up to 15 months. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
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.
Game Days
▶11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Beth El synagogue 500 N. Jerome Ave. Margate this event will take place weekly through Aug. 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. Thoughts from the Bookshelf
▶3 p.m.
Margate Library Meeting Room 8100 Atlantic Ave.
Join JFs Village in welcoming Facilitator Pat g oldstein for a book club gathering. this month, the group will discuss the book “Memphis" by tara M. stringfellow. RsVP by Aug. 1 by contacting tina serota at (609) 287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org. Bingo at the Library
▶6:30 p.m.
Longport Public Library 2305 Atlantic Ave.
try your luck at a game of bingo for a chance to win fun prizes. Available for all ages. 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.
Wednesday, August 7
Beach Exercise: Pilates
▶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) 398-6900. Positivity Project: Mindful Movers ▶9 a.m.
Newport Avenue Beach, Ventnor
Join JFs Village and Mindful Movers in starting the day in an upbeat way. Explore mindfulness, gratitude, and meditation, followed by a walk with friends and neighbors on the Ventnor Boardwalk. the program will begin on the beach behind Ventnor Library. RsVP by contacting tina serota at (609) 287-8872 or tserota@ jfsatlantic.org.
Wacky Wednesday: Prince and Princess Party
▶10:30 a.m.
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
use your creativity to design your own Prince and Princess crown with Miss Ocean City, Junior Miss Ocean City, and Little Miss Ocean City. the contest is free. Must be present at 10:30 a.m. start time to participate. Children’s Summer Playhouse: Jack and the Beanstalk
▶11 a.m.
stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Farris Dr. galloway
Follow this adventure as Jack
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trades his cow for beans and what grows is a path to fame and fortune. tickets can be purchased at www. stockton.edu/pac.
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.
Bill Howarth Women’s Lifeguard Invitational
▶6:30 p.m.
Dorset Avenue Beach, Ventnor Beach patrols up and down south Jersey participate in a thrilling eve -
ning of friendly competition. t he event is free to attend.
Thursday, August 8
118th Annual Baby Parade
▶10:30 a.m.
Ocean City Boardwalk 6th – 14th st.
Join Ocean City for one of the oldest baby parades in the country. Registration is open now. For more information, visit www.ocnj.us/babyparade.
Rotary Club OC-UT Program
▶7 a.m.
uncle Bill’s Pancake House 21st st. & Asbury Ave., Ocean City the Rotary Club of Ocean City- up -
per township will host an in-person breakfast meeting. t his month’s program will feature the annual visit of Professor Ronald g shaiko. Walkins are welcome, however you may RsVP by visiting https://tinyurl.com/ ROtARY08Aug shaiko.
Friday, August 9
Smithville Car Cruise
▶5 – 8 p.m.
Historic smithville 615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
Cruise on down to smithville and hang out with fellow car enthusiasts. Drive to the side parking lot of the Village g reene near the covered bridge; you will see orange cones set
up. Move a cone and park your car. More information is available at www. historicsmithville.com.
South Jersey Lifeguard Championships
▶6:30 p.m.
Brigantine Beach Brigantine Beach Patrol will defend the title in an evening of thrilling friendly competition.
Health and Wellness
Living in the Moment Group
▶Fridays, 10:30 a.m.
Mental Health Association of Atlantic County 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd. suite 8, galloway s low 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) 6523800 ext. 0306.
Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, Aug. 7, 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.
MHA Atlantic Family Meetings
▶thursday, Aug. 8, 7 p.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) 652-3800 ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj.org to receive a meeting link.
NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups
▶Monday, Aug. 12, 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.
Invisible Illness Support Group
▶Wednesday, Aug. 14, 6:30 p.m.
JustBe Farm 6839 Harding Hwy. Mays Landing
For more information, call (609) 214-8777.
event?
World renowned Budweiser Clydesdales to appear in Margate
The world famous Budweiser Clydesdales, the symbol of quality and tradition of Anheuser-Busch since 1933, will be appearing in Margate on t hursday, Aug. 15, from 2 to 4 p.m. t he eight-horse team will be harnessed and hitched to the famous glistening red Budweiser beer wagon on the beach block of Cedar g rove Avenue in front of the Island House condominium building. the public is invited to witness this painstakingly delicate process between 2 and 3 p.m. before the horses make their way around a small circuit on the streets of Margate from 3 to 4 p.m.
From Cedar grove Avenue beach block the hitch will travel south towards Longport and turn right onto Washington Avenue and proceed to Ventnor Avenue and make another right turn. the hitch will stop for photos in front of the Historical society building on Washington Avenue and around the corner in front of Fire station No. 1 on Ventnor Avenue. the Clydesdales will make their way down Ventnor Avenue toward the parkway and turn right on Cedar grove Avenue and head back towards the beach block where they will be unharnessed at the completion of their appearance. the Clydesdales’ appearance in Margate is one of several made an -
nually by the traveling hitches who appear in select areas from coast to coast. It is a rare opportunity to have them in the Downbeach area for a team that performed at the tournament of Roses Parade, the st. Louis Cardinals opening day, and Daytona Beach Bike Week this year alone. Canadians of scottish descent brought the first Clydesdales to America in the mid-1800’s. today, the giant, muscular draft horses (bred for hauling or plowing farms) are used primarily for breeding and shows like the one coming to Margate.
Horses chosen for the Budweiser Clydesdale hitch must be at least 3 years old, stand approximately 18 hands – or 6 feet- at the shoulder, weigh an average of 2,000 pounds, must be bay in color, have four white legs, and a blaze of white on the face and black mane and tail. A single Clydesdale will consume as much as 20-25 quarts of feed, 40-50 pounds of hay and 30 gallons of water per day. Local residents and visitors to Margate should take the opportunity to appreciate these beautiful creatures up close during this once-in-alifetime spectacle. (Please note that specific weather conditions must be met for the safety of the Clydesdales and their ability to appear).
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Atlantic County 4-H celebrates 75th fair, shares history
By Julia Train
The Atlantic County 4-H is celebrating its 75th fair on Friday and saturday, Aug. 9 and 10.
t he two-day event has been a summer tradition since 1948 and is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. It features music, rides, awards, contests, crafts, animals and performances by the different 4-H clubs, such as the twirlybirds baton twirlers, Clover Cloggers and tae Kwon Do.
the national 4-H nonprofit itself is over 100 years old and is America's largest youth development organization.
Atlantic County 4-H Clubs offer youth in grades K–12 the opportunity to learn about life skills such as livestock and poultry management, public speaking, cooking and sewing, stEM activities and martial arts.
those who teach the clubs and classes are volunteers, many of whom have been a member in the past and want to give back.
“I just love what I do. I’ve been
twirling the baton my whole life…I love teaching the kids,” said Joni g runow, treasurer of the 4-H Fair Association.
g runow was a member for nine years before becoming a leader and volunteer, which she has been for 49 years. As a member, she was a part of the Rip & sew club, youth council and twirlybirds baton twirling, which her mom taught.
the yearbooks to write a blurb about its history for this year’s yearbook, which is always given out at the fair.
Atlantic County 4-H history
Atlantic County 4-H was started around the year 1930 and the Atlantic County 4-H Fair Association was organized and incorporated on June 28, 1946, although there are yearbooks on file spanning from 1948 to today.
she also raised chickens and rabbits to show at the fairs. Livestock are shown at the fairs to teach children about both the business aspect of farming and raising animals.
g runow was given yearbooks by Frances Hagel, who was leader of the Cologne Busy Bees for almost 70 years, before passing away in 2019.
" she had saved them and she gave them to me before she passed… she wanted them to go to somebody that was a true 4-H-er,” said g runow.
For the fair’s 75th anniversary, g runow and the other leaders used
t he 1948 yearbook states that the fair that year was held in what’s now the Duberson s chool and the 4-H office was located in the Atlantic County surrogate’s Office. At the time, 4-H was mostly home economics and gardening.
In the 1950 yearbook, it states the 4-H Fair was held at the Pomona Amusement Hall.
the next year, it was held at the Pomona Fairgrounds and remained there until 1957, when the Atlantic County 4-H Fair Association purchased 20 acres in Hamilton and galloway townships.
In 1958, 12 acres were cleared to construct sanitary facilities, a 4-H Office, a refreshment stand and the power supply house and well in order to have the first 4-H Fair held at the fairgrounds at the current location.
Improvements made throughout the years
In 1960, a 35-by-100-foot livestock barn was added.
In May the following year, there was a groundbreaking event for the new multi-purpose building at the fairgrounds.
the building is named after David C. Wood, who took the job of 4-H extension agent in Atlantic County in 1948. He held the role for 30 years, during which he brought 4-H to the
county and created several programs, encouraging youth to take leadership roles.
Wood also founded the first County 4-H Queen Contest in 1950. He passed away on June 24, 2012.
A 35-by-40-foot addition to the main youth center, which included the kitchen and meeting room, was completed in early 1965.
In 1972, a boys workshop wing was added.
In the spring of 1986, the refreshment stand was torn down and replaced with a new refreshment building, completed in the summer of 1987.
In 2021, two roadway signs were installed through an Eagle s cout project.
Bella Hunter of Hammonton enjoys participating in the annual 4-H Fair.
By William Kelly
The Shore Road Sea Captain
“Who was the shore Road s ea Captain?” was the question that came in. And while there were probably a number of them over the years and decades, I could only think of one who stands out.
Commander Richard somers, who was born on the corner of shore and Bethel roads where there is now an historical memorial to mark the spot, and whose father was a colonel in the Revolutionary War militia, is the one who comes to mind for me.
Most famous as the “father of u s Navy,” Commander Richard somers was killed during the war against the Barbary Pirates in tripoli, Libya, in 1804, and remains buried there with his shipmates “on the shores of tripoli.” He is the subject of one of the historic plays currently being produced at the gateway Playhouse on Bay Avenue in somers Point. the heroics of the Richard somers name span generations.
Colonel Richard somers, father of the tripoli hero, was the captain of a schooner – a sleek and fast two-masted sailing ship commonly made in the area, and used as merchant ships or for fishing.
Richard lived in his home/tavern on the corner of shore and Bethel Road, which existed into the 1970s, when it was renovated into an office complex, despite attempts to save it for its historic significance. the original Bethel Chapel, just down the road, was known as the sea Captain’s Church and Richard somers’ home/tavern was popular with locals and transients passing through.
With the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the establishment of a colonial government, Colonel somers was one of the sea captains who was given a commission as a privateer, legally tasked with capturing British merchant ships, which were taken to Port Republic, just north of smithville on the Little Egg Harbor River, now the Mullica. there the captured contents were advertised for sale at auction in Philadelphia and New York newspapers, which infuriated the British. upstream from Port Republic was Batsto, which remains preserved as an historic colonial village where munitions – cannonballs and musket shot – were made. there the bog iron was melted in a furnace, measured
and dropped from the top of a tower. As it fell it rolled into balls that solidified when they hit the cold creek waters to create balls. the ammo was ultimately delivered to Washington’s army at Valley Forge.
During the Revolution, because of his stature in the community, Richard somers was commissioned as a colonel in the local militia.
His son Richard, who would become somers Point’s most renowned naval hero, was born at home in september 1778, during the Revolution. A month later, in October 1778, Colonel s omers took his musket from the fireplace mantle, saddled his horse and led his militia to Port Republic, the destination of a British flotilla. the goal of the British was to destroy the town of Chestnut Neck, then go upstream to capture Batsto and put an end to the privateering and ammo supply.
laski’s men made it to what is now Mystic Island, where a larger group of Americans loyal to the crown, led by Captain Ferguson, ambushed them in their sleep. It became known as the Little Egg Harbor Massacre.
In his book, Kemp notes that one of the British Redcoats who was ordered to burn the village at Chestnut Neck was smitten by a local girl and spared her home, later returning to marry her.
t he best account of the Battle of Chestnut Neck at Port Republic is the book, “Nest of Rebel Pirates,” which is what the British called Port Republic at the time. It was written by Linwood historian Franklin Kemp and is available online at batstovillage.org.
Kemp also told friends and associates that he was writing a biography of Colonel somers’ son Richard, and had corresponded with some Italian soldiers who told him that while constructing a road outside the old castle fort in tripoli in the 1930s, they had uncovered the remains of the u. s . sailors from the uss Intrepid, the fire ship on which Commander s omers and his fellow sailors perished, and reburied them at an old protestant cemetery nearby. Kemp’s widow could find no documentation on either the biography or the letters, but the story rings true.
the Patriots had been notified in advance that the British fleet was on its way. Bad weather delayed its arrival so the privateers escaped in their ships and removed what they wanted. But the British troops recaptured and scuttled 10 vessels and burned most of the village of Chestnut Neck, now known as Port Republic. two of the large British ships ran aground in the shallow waters and were kept from reaching Batsto.
Fired upon and harrassed by the colonial militia including Colonel somers’ contingent, and forewarned that American reinforcements led by Count Casimir Pulaski, the British retreated.
A contingent of about 50 of Pu -
On Oct. 6, 1911, the general Lafayette Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution erected a large monument at Port Republic, just off Route 9 south of smithville. A Minute Man stands at the top of the monument, which reads: “In memory of the Brave Patriots of the Revolutionary War who defended their liberty and their homes in the battle fought near this site on October 6, 1778,” Colonel Richard somers is one of the names listed at the base of the monument. His son Richard somers, born on sept. 15, 1778, a few weeks before the battle, would make an even more significant mark on u s . Naval history before he perished in tripoli harbor in 1804.
And that’s the story of the shore Road sea Captain, as far as I can piece it together.
A guide to tubing on the Great Egg Harbor River
By Julia Train
Irecently spent a day tubing on the river.
the water was a little chilly when I first plopped myself into the center of the tube, but it was easy to acclimate to it. the sun was peeking through the trees and shining on my face and I could hear birds and laughter from others in the group as we floated along the river.
River Campground on Weymouth Road are the two places to choose from if you don’t have your own gear.
Both locations offer rentals with transportation to the drop-off spot and back. At Palace, tube rental is $30 per person and $20 for a cooler tube.
If you’re bringing your own tube or kayak and need transportation to and from, there’s a $20 fee if you go through the outfitter.
Winding River Campground lists
the day was peaceful and fun, but ir also took a lot of preparation to make sure it was both enjoyable and safe.
the most popular place for water activities in our area is the g reat Egg Harbor River, since it’s the main waterway throughout the Pine Barrens with a majority of its 129-mile river system resting in it.
If you’re looking to spend a day tubing on the great Egg Harbor River, here’s your guide.
Outfitter or your own?
When planning the excursion, you first need to choose if you’ll be renting a tube through an outfitter or using your own gear and transportation.
If you wish to use your own, tubes for yourself and your cooler can both be purchased for about $20 each from an outdoor sporting store.
Palace Restaurant and Outfitters on the Black Horse Pike and Winding
their tube rental as $30 plus tax for non-campers and $27 plus tax for campers. If you have your own gear, there’s a $10 transportation fee for campers and $15 for non-campers.
Tips for preparing for the day
since outfitters take care of everything for you in terms of equipment, you only have to worry about a few details.
First, make sure the day you decide to go is a clear one with calm water conditions.
Along with a bathing suit, wear shoes that can get wet to protect your feet from rocks and rough particles. Old sneakers, water shoes or sandals that have velcro straps (like tevas) would be better than flip flops because they stay on.
Bring a change of clothes and a towel to keep in the car for after the trip.
Eat a full meal before going — because, believe it or not, spending hours on the river can be draining.
Bring plenty of drinks–both alcoholic and non–and snacks. store the snacks in a zip-close bag and the drinks in your cooler on a tube, which both outfitters offer, and tie it to yours to keep it close.
Palace sells any equipment you may need such as sunscreen, water shoes and sunglasses, but it’s also a good idea to bring nylon rope and scissors to connect your tube with others if you want to stay close to your group.
Make sure you allow enough time to finish your trip before dark– most people start as early as 9 a.m.
Keep your cell phone and any other valuables, like keys, in a dry bag to protect it from the water.
If you want to amplify your experience, bring a waterproof speaker or even water-friendly toys like a foam football.
Now you're ready for a day to float down the g reat Egg Harbor River. It’s time to pick a day for your tubing trip!
The Little Mermaid (2023) PG Scotts Dock: Terrapins - Why are those turtles crossing the road? Jace’s Place – Pizza Night
Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch (2005) PG
Athletes to swim, bike and run as AC Triathlon returns
By William Sokolic
Some would say a marathon ranks as perhaps the most grueling athletic competition. But others could make a credible claim for the triathlon: a mix of running, biking and swimming.
Which reminds us that the 14th CRDA t RI AC triathlon rolls into town Aug. 3. the event, which expects to attract as many as 1,400 athletes, features two courses, a beginner-friendly sprint and an Olympic distance competition. the latter features a run of 10 kilometers, biking 22 miles and swimming a mile. the easier sprint version kind of cuts
the distances in half: a 5K run, 11-mile bike ride and a 0.25 mile swim. Each offers individual or relay, and the day also includes an Aquabike contest, without the running. g oing the sprint route offers a vehicle to ease into future Olympic contests. What makes any of the events less of a hassle is the terrain: flat and fast, according to DelMosports, the agency behind the race. In the tRI AC, each segment begins
at Bader Field. the bike route goes west on the Atlantic City Expressway to Exit 5, the turnaround point. Run down Albany Avenue and then north on the Boardwalk. swim in the back bays where the currents are minimal compared to the inlets and ocean.
What makes the triathlon in Atlantic City such a success is its uniqueness, says stephen Del Monte, the founder and CEO of DelMosports.
“Atlantic City has many moving parts, and to be able safely have athletes swim in the back bay, bike on the expressway, and run/finish on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk is an amazing opportunity. We are the Big City Race 'down the shore!’" the prime sponsor of tRI AtH, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, has supported the competition through its grant program funding which enabled the event to succeed.
“ t he race brings thousands of visitors to the destination and showcases our beautiful free beaches
tions & marketing, CRDA.
Participation holds steady between 1,300 and 1,400 athletes, Del Monte says. “For us, it's all about athlete safety, organization, and efficiency for everyone involved. We do our best to communicate with our athletes and the community to bring about the best experience possible.” testimonial after testimonial praise the programming efforts.
“I have done tRI AC Olympic distance a couple times in recent years, and it is one of my favorites,” said Eric Ascalon, on the DelMosports website. “DelMo knows how to put on an event. swimming in the back bay is awesome, and well-supported by an armada of lifeguards. It’s a fast and flat bike and run courses. With great ocean views. What more can you ask for?”
Del Monte started DelMosports in 2003 as a way to spread the experience of participating in triathlons.
“I loved the feeling triathlon game me. the ability to set a goal, train,
In addition to t RI AC, DelMosports puts on tri the Wildwoods, Escape the Cape and the Women's Philadelphia triathlon. the triathlon is one of a growing list of athletic competitions courtesy of the Atlantic City sports Commission. they include:
August 15: Amerikick Internationals at the Atlantic City Convention Center
August 19-24: u . s . Open Pool Championship
september 13-15: usA triathlon Olympic and sprint Distance National Championships on the beach and Boardwalk
October 4: usA Fencing 2024
North American Cup
October 19-20: Atlantic City Marathon and Half Marathon 5K and 10K
“We are always booking events and have several sporting events on the books that aren’t definite yet, says Jessica Kasunich, director of communications for Visit AC.
Hosted by Just Organics MP and The Honey Tree
Every Sunday Memorial to Labor Day
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
1 Swift Dr., EHT
Atlantic County Library Grounds
See these Vendors on Sunday
Just Organics Marketplace/The Honey Tree Surf & Turf Farms
Missa’s Wicked Goods
This is Poppi’s
Generous Greens & Flower Co.
D’s Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks
DeMarsico Garlic farm
Grassia’s Italian Market Spice Co.
Pet Wants
Sip a Latte
Miss Connie’s Street Corn
The Mu n Top
April Made for Kitten Aid
Stoney End candle, soap and bath
Beckett Scott Boutique
Hermit Crabs: Nature’s Mobile Homes
Taking Care of Our Crabby Friends
By Steffen Klenk
While visiting the Jersey shore, you’ll want to bring home something to remember your experience; a memento of all the fun times had while visiting our beautiful beaches. Many shops along the boardwalk sell hermit crabs as pets. Before you invest in making this important purchase, you should have an understanding of how to provide for these creatures and the care they require.
Wild hermit crabs grow in various shapes and sizes, expanding anywhere from a few millimeters to 2 feet in length. You are bound to notice hermit crabs crawling along
the beach, or crawling along a seabed. they have been noted to live up to thirty years in their natural environment. With the most optimal conditions, hermit crabs can live anywhere from six months to a year in captivity.
One of the most unique features of the hermit crab is its shell. these small, circular structures protect their fragile ligaments while maintaining the amount of moisture required for their survival. One interesting fact is that they do not grow their own shells; they get their shells from other crabs, gastropods, and snails.
Hermit crabs use a molting process to grow and develop. For a period of one to two months, the crab will hibernate deep into the sand, at which point it will form a new exoskeleton. Once this process has completed, they will seek out a new shell to call home. Hermit crabs will also use their shells for added protection against a large number of predators including fish, snails, and blue crabs.
monitor conditions. they rely on 70 degree temperatures and a relative humidity of 75%.
Fresh water is critical for the survival of your crustaceous friend. they use the fresh water to replenish, drink and bathe. Avoid tap water; distilled water is required, as tap water is poisonous to them. they also require salt water that can be mixed from specific aquatic stores or purchased online.
Before bringing your new hermit crab home, be sure it is set up with the proper environment. Make sure it has an enclosure that is about the size of a ten gallon aquarium. Its home should be equipped with an air screen and plenty of deep sand. Hermit crabs love to exercise, so ensure that they have plenty of room to climb and areas to hide in.
Hermit crabs are a community of social creatures that live in large colonies in the wild. Your pet hermit would love to have several friends with him. It’s best not to have no less than two crabs per cage.
Fluorescent and dome lighting will help keep temperatures at optimal levels for sheldon to survive; make sure to install a thermometer to
Hermit crabs enjoy a diet consisting of fresh, natural foods. they have a sweet tooth and enjoy apples, pears, and even applesauce. to ensure good health, they need to be given plenty of nourishment rich in calcium and supplements. this, again, can be found online or at an aquatic store. Baby food works best. Avoid all processed foods.
Buying painted shells may seem harmless and fun to look at, but it will also create an unsafe environment for your crustaceous friend. Over time the paint can easily chip off and get inside their food or water dish, which could cause hazardous effects. Make sure you have a variety of shells for your crab to choose from in its natural form. With the proper amount of love and care, your hermit crab can live a long, healthy life.
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.
DISCOVER YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE THIS SUMMER
Shining a light on the bright future of the Atlantic City Inlet
By Bruce Klauber
The spectacular failure of the Revel Casino Hotel, and the equally spectacular success of Revel’s successor, Ocean Casino Resort, detailed recently in these pages, had ramifications that went well beyond casino business profitability.
the fact that Revel was built at all, and that it was built in Atlantic City’s Inlet section, has spearheaded long-overdue development in a once-troubled neighborhood that continues to positively change the face of Atlantic City.
Redeveloping Atlantic City’s Inlet section was something that city politicians talked about for years. By and large it was just talk. Ever since I can remember, and I’ve been coming to
Atlantic City annually since 1956, that section of the city has been problematic. sure, lots of folks went to the legendary Captain starn’s and Hackney’s restaurants, but by and large the Inlet was viewed as a crime-ridden, dangerous place to stay away from.
It wasn’t always that way.
the Absecon Lighthouse was built by the Army Corps of Engineers in 1857.
In 1878, the Biographical Atlas of the New Jersey Coast described the Inlet as “navigable for small-sized coasting vessels, and furnishes entrances and exits to the waters of Absecon and Reed's Bays, small bodies of water in Atlantic County. No considerable stream except Absecon Creek flows into them.”
But the serious issues for the area, say the history books, began after World War II when the city began a slow decline. For whatever reason, crime, corruption and poverty hit the Inlet neighborhood particularly hard.
Here are some of the challenges the city faced at the Inlet through the years:
t hough the two restaurants at the Inlet continued to be successful, the general situation was so dire that by the mid-1960s, the city declared the neighborhood “blighted” and proposed an urban Renewal Project. the program, to put it mildly, was drastic. Quite simply, it was a mass demolition, followed by comprehensive redevelopment.
“In all, 80 acres of the area were cleared, and it was estimated that 1,900 people were displaced by the plan,” read the u rban Renewal report.
t he redevelopment plan also called for a new community of garden apartments, high rises, and hotels, with “everything in this new area geared toward the car.” sufficient funding didn’t come through, and only three new structures were built. there were no hotels or garden apartments, and most of the remainder of the land was vacant for decades.
the neighborhood got even worse through the 1970s. the legalization of casino gaming in 1976 was seen by some in the city as a godsend, especially as it applied to the Inlet section. Would legalized gambling save the Inlet? Not for a while. the area was zoned for casinos and the speculators moved in. Land values went through the roof, from around $4.45 per
The Absecon Lighthouse is New Jersey's tallest lighthouse and a beloved landmark to many locals.
square foot in 1976 to an astounding $39.15 in 1980. the market determined that the land was more valuable to investors without structures, so existing buildings began to come down, some suspiciously.
the Press of Atlantic City reported that, in the first four months of 1981, 117 fires broke out in the south Inlet section. t he fire department considered 105 of them to be suspicious.
As the years passed, there was so much land zoned for casinos, and so much inactivity, that the values of the land began to drop. the south Inlet neighborhood was seemingly deserted, with the exception of some new home construction in 2000, funded by the Casino Reinvestment Redevelopment Authority.
the area sat that way until 2007, when construction began on the Revel Casino Hotel. But, given what we now know about the Revel saga, there wasn’t really a lot of great news at the Inlet until the astounding success of the Ocean Resort Casino, which opened in June of 2018. that’s when things finally began to change for the better.
s ome of the positive developments have included:
the most visible addition to the Inlet’s landscape, something that would have been unheard of a couple
of decades ago, took place in 2022 when North Beach Mini golf and Bike Rentals opened on 120 Euclid Ave. In addition to the obvious features, North Beach Mini golf presents special events during the season, and the venue is doing a healthy, private party business, with one of the main selling points being the ocean and skyline views, and the 5,000-square-foot deck.
t he Inlet Community Development Corporation (ICDC) received a $950,000 donation from Ocean Casino Resort, by way of funding from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. the funds, which included a $50,000 donation from tropicana for a total contribution
of $1 million, will be used to support the ICDC’s revitalization project to improve the Inlet’s commercial businesses and their facades, offer housing rehabilitation grants, clean and safe initiatives, community programs, outreach and education, and career training. Other planned improvements include rehabbing homes at the Inlet and providing safer and more well-lit pedestrian/bike trails. Redevelopment of Altman Park, the 1.56-acre park located at 101 Pacific Ave., has been one focalpoint. the park has been in disrepair for years. Much-needed improvements include expansion of the playground, repair of the basketball court and tennis court, installation of a dog park,
and two new pickleball courts. In March, a residential development project was announced with great fanfare. “Lighthouse Row,” said Mayor Marty small at the press conference announcing the project, “is expected to completely transform the landscape of this neighborhood.” the eight homes, just several feet away from the Absecon Lighthouse, will each have four or five bedrooms, three full bathrooms and two-car garages. Each unit will have views that will overlook the ocean, as well as the lighthouse and the city skyline. this is a fully solar powered residential development which will light up from sunset to sunrise each and every day. Will shore residents ever see the day when the Atlantic City Inlet section is completely redeveloped residentially and commercially? Not very long ago, something like that wouldn’t have even been a possibility. Now it’s not only very possible, but all signs finally point to “probable.”
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.
BAIT & TACKLE
What's happening in Ocean City
The 61st annual Boardwalk
Art Show will be held Friday through sunday (Aug. 2 to 4) on the Boardwalk between Eighth street and 13th street. Artists from throughout the region will exhibit and sell their works. t he show will feature fine art, including oils, acrylics, watercolors, drawings, hand-pulled prints and photography. there is something for everyone at the show, and it’s a great opportunity to start or increase your art collection. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. sunday. Awards are given to the top entries in the show. t he event is sponsored by the Ocean City Arts Center and made possible by funds from the New Jersey state Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. For further information, call the Ocean City Arts Center at 609-399-7628 or visit www.oceancityartscenter.org
the celebration of the arts will include the 23rd annual Art of Surfing Festival – thursday to saturday (Aug. 1 to 3) at the Ocean City Music Pier. this annual art festival is an event
featuring original surf-related artwork, locally shaped boards, and a chance to meet artists from across the region. It also features classic surfboards, memorabilia and live music. Admission is free to the show 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. thursday (Aug. 1) and noon to 10 p.m. Friday and saturday (Aug. 2 and 3).
Contests and weekly happenings
t he popular weekly Farmers Market on the grounds of the Ocean City tabernacle is open 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Wednesday the market features the best of fresh produce from local farms in the region, along with a variety of craft vendors.
A Sand Sculpting Contest on thursday, Aug. 1 , will be open to kids, teens, adults and families. Registration is free and begins at 9 a.m. at the sixth street Beach. Judging takes place by 11 a.m.
Family Nights include stilt walkers, magicians, favorite characters and more set up at different spots between Eighth street and 12th street on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Family Nights run 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. ev-
ery Monday and Wednesday through the summer.
Mummers Night on Aug. 1 will feature string bands strutting the Boardwalk between sixth street and 14th street. Mummers Nights run 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every tuesday and thursday through the summer.
Downtown Asbury Avenue will feature entertainment, face-painters, balloon sculptors and more from 10
a.m. to 1 p.m. thursday (Aug. 1) for Market Days and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. tuesday (Aug. 6) for Funtastic Tuesday.
Fishing pier open house rescheduled for Thursday, Aug. 1
the Ocean City Fishing Club will welcome the public to tour its private 14th Street Pier twice this summer
• 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 Beautifully equipped 27'
in hopes of breaking records set last year for donations to the local Ocean City Ecumenical Council Food Cupboard.
the club joins a challenge made by Mayor Jay gillian to donate non-perishable foods in memory of Regina Ralston, the manager of the Food Cupboard, who died earlier this year.
the first open house was set for thursday, July 25, but was postponed due to rain. the new date is Thursday, Aug. 1 the second will be held a week later on Thursday, Aug. 8 the pier, located at 14th street and the Boardwalk, will be open to the public from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. both evenings. Pier visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or make cash donations. t he open houses coincide with the city’s Mummers Nights on the Boardwalk.
In 2023, 2,112 pier visitors brought 385 pounds of food and donated $1,924 in cash to benefit the local food agency. Each of last year’s two open houses at the pier broke previous records for donations to the Ocean City Food Cupboard.
Cars
and coffee on tap for
Saturday
Cars and Coffee from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3 will combine two of everybody’s favorite things.
More than 100 classic and unique cars will be on display on the grounds of the Ocean City tabernacle at 550 Wesley Avenue. Admission is free, and the rain date is Aug. 10.
Tickets
on sale for
a night of popular film compositions and tony Award-winning Broadway arrangements. spotlighting some of the greatest composers and lyricists through sara’s score, this is a night of music that you will not want to miss.
For tickets, visit oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice , call 609-3996111 or stop by the Music Pier Box Office.
Summer Concert Series features The Beach Boys
t he Beach Boys will take the stage at the Ocean City Music Pier for four shows: 6 p.m. Monday (Aug. 5), 8:30 p.m. Monday (Aug. 5), 6 p.m. tuesday (Aug. 6) and 8:30 p.m. tues-
day (Aug. 6).
Check the Music Pier Box Office for ticket availability or visit etix.com
Registration open for 114th Annual Baby Parade
t he 114th annual Baby Parade in Ocean City is set for 10:30 a.m. thursday, Aug. 8, and registration is now open.
All families with children age 10 and under are invited to participate. Bands, performing groups and commercial floats are also encouraged to join in the fun.
Complete information and registration is available at www.ocnj.us/ BabyParade.
Fishing club members will be on hand to guide visitors and answer questions about the pier and the organization. the pier extends nearly 750 feet from the Boardwalk, over the beach and the Atlantic Ocean.
‘Grease’ Aug. 6 to 15
the Ocean City theatre Company and the Ocean City Pops invite you to rock and roll with the hit musical “Grease” at the Hughes Performing Arts Center Aug. 6 to 15
“We’re glad to join the city in collecting food for the local food cupboard in memory of Regina Ralston,” said tom Yucis, OCFC president. “We’re hoping the public will again respond generously and set new records for the amount we collect to benefit the needy.”
t he show features many recognizable hits like “ summer Nights,” “greased Lightnin' ” and “We go together.” Additionally, several songs from the iconic movie including “You're t he One that I Want,” “ sandy,” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” will be included with special arrangement by Robert stigwood.
this collaborative production features a cast selected through a professional audition process and the talented musicians of the Ocean City Pops.
Performances run Aug. 6, 7, 9, 13, 14, and 15 at 7:30 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on Aug. 8 and 15 at the Bill and Nancy Hughes Performing Arts Center (within Ocean City High school at 501 Atlantic Ave.). Visit www. oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice or call 609-399-6111 for tickets.
Ocean City Pops features Sara Maimone
At 7:30 p.m. sunday, Aug. 4, Ocean City’s own Sara Maimone will join the Ocean City Pops for a special performance titled “Lights, Camera, Broadway!”
Back by popular demand – since selling out her 2023 Holiday show with Maestro Vince Lee and the Pops – Maimone invites you to enjoy
SOAP SHOP
OC Haunted Hotel thrills families seeking spooks this summer
By Chloe Cramutola
Darkness slithers in the halls. the lobby sits still –– “Out OF sERVICE,” a sign reads. Animatronic ghouls and ghosts rise from the dead, and skeletons lay scattered beneath the floorboards. Every step taken feels like a descent into a horror film. A hall of doors knocking and calling for entrance; mind tricks and illusions; a swirl of blue light leading into another dimension; a maniacal captain, a crooked ship deck and the thrashing of waves and thunder.
What's spooking the public with chills and thrills –– it’s the OC Haunted Hotel on the Ocean City boardwalk.
“It is the first haunted walkthrough on the boardwalk in 40 years, and
it’s what we call ‘frightfully fun,’” said Mark Benevento, president of OCNJ Entertainment. “We try to keep it family friendly. No blood and guts, just a bunch of jumpscares and some cool illusions in there.”
u pon entering the hotel, family members and friends will grab a rope that will keep the party together, ensuring a safe and scary walkthrough. A t V display of ursula, the tour guide, will welcome the visitors, but as the screen fizzles out, it becomes clear that this hotel has become a host for uninvited guests.
Cameras on the wall flicker into ghostly spirits glaring at guests. g reen lights and a thick fog shoot from the walls of a dark room, creating the illusion that the party will be wading through the depths of a swamp.
“ there’s not a lot of scary things on the boardwalk, so it’s a big attraction because everybody’s looking for a good scare, some adrenaline,” said employee sarah Ramos.
A ribbon cutting ceremony launched the attraction for “hotel guests” and beachgoers this sum -
mer. Complete with animatronics and visuals, spine-chilling effects, lights and sounds, this haunted walkthrough has it all.
OCNJ Entertainment owns and operates many attractions on the boardwalk, including Haunted g olf, OC Escape, Congo Falls, Frenchy’s, Encounters lazer maze and mirror maze and Pirate Island. the hotel, golf and escape rooms are connected, inviting beachgoers to try each site individually or a combination of the three.
With the Haunted Combo, visitors can save $7 per person by purchasing the Haunted g olf and Haunted Hotel for $19.99. With the Escape Combo, guests can save $13 per person when they purchase the Escape Room, Haunted g olf and Haunted Hotel for $39.99.
“If you asked me two years ago if we would ever own a haunted walkthrough, I would say no,” said Benevento. “But I was away in tennessee and went between gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, and I experienced a haunted attraction there. I just saw the synergies between our existing haunted golf, our escape rooms and the haunted hotel, and thought it would work wonderfully together. s o that’s why we brought it up here.”
to a convention in st. Louis two times, and I got some wonderful ideas.” Benevento hired Imagine Art studios, a company based in New York. He said the studio helped design and build the hotel and that they did a “phenomenal” job.
While the attractions are sure to thrill visitors, Benevento describes the golf and escape rooms as “not scary” and the hotel as “somewhat scary,” so each experience is appropriate for all ages.
Over the course of two years, Benevento traveled everywhere to collect ideas for effects such as that one, allowing him to cultivate and craft this spooky experience.
“I went to every haunted attraction I could find, all over the country,” he said. “I talked to the owners, I went
“I really like the energy. I feel like everybody’s really happy coming here,” said Ramos. “People leave in a good mood. It’s just really nice, making people happy and seeing their reactions to the attractions.”
Benevento started on the boardwalk in 1984, so this is his 41st season working with OCNJ Entertainment. He said he is happy to be a resident of Ocean City and to be a business owner, and to have had the chance to work on these attractions for customers.
Chloe is a multimedia editor and journalism major at Boston University, where she is Editor at The Daily Free Press. She will be graduating Spring '25. Connect with her on LinkedIn @ chloecramutola
OC Escape and Haunted Golf share space with the OC Haunted Hotel.
The ghost of a captain warning visitors about the hotel, his home, where his spirit is bound.
8/10/24
One hundred years of Lifeguard Championships
A Look Back
By Fred Miller
One hundred years ago, Aug 1, 1924, Atlantic City Beach Patrol's Harry Yates and Jack Woodworth across the finish line three second ahead of Ocean City's Charles s chock and Joe tomlin to win the first south Jersey Lifeguard Championship. the tournament was to be an annual event, but it was only held in 1924, 1925, 1926, 1936 and 1937.
flag buoys very difficult for the ten crews. A couple of lifeboats capsized, including Ocean City's second team of Jim sharkey and Chick Bramble. Kelly and Regan had a hard time getting through the surf and were the third boat to reach the half-way point, but on the inward journey they stepped up their stroke and forged to the front. they crossed the finish line in 11 minutes and 58 seconds, 17 seconds ahead of the Atlantic City crew of tom Detweiler and Joe Broome Jr.
After Ocean City's Jack Kelly Jr. won the 1944 OCBP's doubles rowing championship with Joe Regan. he wanted more competitions. He persuaded his father and OCBP Captain tom Williams to sponsor a south Jersey doubles rowing race.
Lifeguards from Atlantic and Cape May counties had not competed against each other since 1937.
On s ept. 1, 1944, on the 10th street, the OCBP hosted the sixth south Jersey Lifeguard Championship. the rough ocean and strong wind made the trip to the half-mile
t he s outh Jersey Lifeguard Championship has been held every year (except 1948 and 2020) and is the most prestigious of all the lifeguard tournaments held in Atlantic and Cape May counties. the Ocean City Beach Patrol has won the team title a record 34 times. this year the south Jersey Lifeguard Championship will be held on August 9 on the 16th street beach in Brigantine. the doubles rowing race will begin at 6:30 p. m.
Place winners from Wildwood and Atlantic City congratulate the winners of the 1944 South Jersey Lifeguard Championship, Ocean City's Jack Kelly Jr. (second from right) and Joe Regan.
Summer Lovin’ in OCNJ with the Broadway Musical ‘Grease’
The Ocean City t heatre Company and Ocean City Pops invite you to rock and roll with the hit musical “g rease” at the Hughes Performing Arts Center Aug. 6 to 15.
“g rease” celebrates Rydell High’s class of 1959 in all its duck-tailed, bobby-soxed, gum-snapping glory. Full of energy, charm, and fun, this musical follows the romance between “greaser” Danny and the sweet new girl in town, s andy. “ shooby do wap” along with this iconic soundtrack of a generation. With a rollicking, rock ‘n’ roll book, music, and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, the show features many recognizable hits like “ s ummer Nights,” “greased Lightnin’,” and “We g o together.” Additionally, several
songs from the iconic movie including “You’re t he One t hat I Want,”” s andy” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You” will be included with special arrangement by Robert stigwood. t his City of Ocean City collaborative production of “ g rease” features a cast selected through a professional audition process and the talented musicians of the Ocean City Pops. OCtC’s Artistic Director, Michael Hartman, proudly announced that the creative team consists of Bonnie Kelly (Director/ Choreographer), Jonathan Kreamer (Music Director/ Conductor), James Hartman/Peggy Fotusky (s cenic Design/Art), Lily
Lugiano (Costume Designer), Michael Dress (Audio), Eric g elb (Wig Design) and Drew Bongiovanni (Lighting Design). tickets for “g rease” range from $25-30. Performances run Aug. 6, 7, 9, 13, 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on Aug. 8 and 15. tickets are available online at ocnj.us/ boxoffice, in person at any Ocean City Information Center, or by calling
609-399-6111. Audience members are encouraged to travel back in time by dressing in 50s attire at all performances!
“g rease” is presented by special agreement with s amuel French, Inc., a Concord theatricals Company. An eightyear run on Broadway, two subsequent revivals, and innumerable school and community productions place “ g rease” among the world’s most popular musicals. You will not want to miss this Ocean City production, as it will be a summer highlight.
Surf Fest raises funds for Amyloidosis
Photos by Steffen Klenk
The 20th Annual Chip Miller surf Fest was held on Friday, July 26, at 7th street Beach in Ocean City. Dozens of the area’s best amateur and pro surfers participated in a full day of fun, sun and surfing along with exclusive merch drops and appearances by special guest judges, all while raising funds and awareness for the Chip Miller Amyloidosis Foundation (CMAF). You can learn more about the organization’s mission or make a donation at www.chipmiller.org.
JULY 31
Wildwoods Baby Parade
AUGUST 1 - 12
Back to School Warehouse Clothing Sale
AUGUST 2 - 4
Battle at the Beach Mixed Martial Arts Tournament
AUGUST 9 - 11
Tattoo Beach Bash
AUGUST 9-11 & 16-18
Wildwood Baseball on the Beach
AUGUST 23 - 25
Sports Card, Toys, Comics & Collectibles
AUGUST 24
Tri the Wildwoods Triathlon and Wild Child Triathlon
AUGUST 25 - 29
Wildwoods Restaurant Week
SEPTEMBER 1
Wildwood End of Summer Block Party
SEPTEMBER 6 - 7
New Year’s in North Wildwood
SEPTEMBER 7
The Wildwoods Food & Music Festival
FRIDAY NIGHTS TO AUGUST 30 Friday Night Fireworks
SATURDAY MORNINGS TO AUGUST 31
Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market
WILDWOODS ISLAND SHUTTLE - LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US
Jitney Service from Diamond Beach to Olde NJ Ave...and everywhere in between! ~ Download the Free Jitney Surfer App ~
Photos by Tim Keeley and Delaney Weed Photography
Founders of the Great OC Lagoon Race, Tim and Kate Campbell
This year’s Art of Surfing Festival sure to make a splash
By Megan Antosy
The Art of surfing Festival encompasses the s outh Jersey surfing spirit through music, art and surfboards. this year’s show will be held at the Music Pier on Aug. 1, 2 and 3.
the festival started in the early 2000s at the sagemore gallery on Asbury Avenue, near where Ward’s Pastry was by Phil DeAngelo and steve Miller. the show quickly outgrew the gallery and moved to the Music Pier. After the sagemore gallery closed, DeAngelo and Miller kept the show going. About three years ago, Aaron “Bogy” Bogushefsky took over the show along with Caitlin Peck,
Jason Carlisi and Elizabeth Kirk. Peck designed this year’s poster.
“Before, it was my one art show that I did a year,” Bogy explained. “I used to be the young guy in town, the new artist, now I’m the veteran who gets to help people. My goal is to showcase what we do to the community and [also] to outsiders looking in.
I love what we have here, the surfing community. Between music, film and art, it’s the core of surfing but all of these things are branches off of that one root.”
t his year features 25 artists, eight of which are first-timers to the festival. One of those artists is Jules gaupp, a painter who is known for her
hand-painted hats, vans, and totes. “I’m looking forward to being a part of the local surf and art scene and meeting other artists,” said gaupp.
Also new this year is an interactive surfboard shaper booth where festival participants can watch the shapers shape and glass a surfboard through the three days. Brian Wynn, tony Palaia, and trevor Kennedy will team up to show off their shaping skills and create this board that will be available at the end of the show for a festivalgoer to add to their quiver.
there will be a surf film debuting at the festival. Called “We’re still Here– A New Jersey surf story,” it highlights Jersey surf culture and looks at the oldest surf shops in the state. Created by steven Potter, this will debut saturday night, Aug. 3, at 8 p.m. During the show, there will also be a book signing by Mark Neustadter, a member of the East Coast surfing Hall of Fame, about New Jersey surfing.
As always, there will be music under the Music Pier loggia. Aaron Jamison of Wildlife s urfboards won’t be a featured surfboard maker this year, but his band Head High will be performing. Other bands featured over the three nights are L+J Band, Polaroid Fade, and the Customers.
New this year, Peace of Wood will offer kid demos. Kristina Young will also be an artist. she is known for her turquoise pops of color in the waves, sea creatures, and mermaids that she paints. Young will be bringing original works as well as prints, stickers, and apparel.
Bogy is a watercolor artist. He’s bringing a mixture of stickers, original works, and prints. New this year, he is bringing his prints in 18x24” puzzle form. “People have asked me for years for my art into a puzzle. I finally did it,” said Bogy.
Other artists this year include Mike Rumer (Wicked Woods), an epoxy artist; staci Lynn Kaplan (Wind and Waves soaps), a soapmaker; and susan Allen (Catch Her Drift), a driftwood carver.
“My goal for the show is to highlight the local surf scene in s outh Jersey and put it on display for a few nights,” said Bogy.
currently pursuing her master's degree in Strategic Communications and Digital Strategy through the University of Oklahoma.
Photos are courtesy of Art of Surfing
Take a book – Share a book
By Bill Quain
It was a real pleasure to research and write this week’s column. It highlights a growing trend worldwide and allows me to spotlight two of my favorite Ocean City locals. t his week I’m talking about a special “little library” here in Ocean City.
My six-word title, “ take a book –share a book” comes directly from the Little Free Library website (littlefreelibrary.org). A little free library is a small, enclosed box on a post, filled with books. users are asked to “take a book and share a book” so that the library remains full.
But in reality, there are no rules. users can take a book and later return it, take a book and trade it for another book or just take a book to read. the Little Free Library homepage states that there are over 175,000 regis -
tered little free libraries worldwide, in over 121 countries.
A library in memory of Almster
As a blind person, these libraries aren’t for me. I download my books from the Library of Congress and listen to them through a special device. However, I was introduced to a unique little library on the 4200 block of Central Avenue. It is operated by my good friends tedd and Lisa.
they first began using little libraries in Ocean City about 10 years ago, when Lisa’s mother, Alma, needed something to read. tedd and Lisa are avid e-bike riders. they would ride over to the North End (where the majority of the little libraries in town were located), searching for Alma’s favorite authors. When Alma passed away last year, the couple decided to set up a little library in Alma’s memory. since tedd always referred to his mother-in-law as “ the Almster,” (a nickname she loved), the library is dedicated in loving memory of Almster.
Who can become a little librarian?
t he answer to this question is easy! Anyone can become a little librarian. All you need is a box-like structure that people can access. the
Little Free Library organization will sell you a suitable box, and give you instructions on how to install it. After that, it’s just a matter of putting it together, securing it and filling it with books.
there are a number of little libraries in Ocean City, all maintained by individuals or small groups. the Ocean City Free Public Library recently unveiled a children’s “Little Lending Library” at Lake Memorial Park. Like many little libraries, this one was built as an Eagle scout project. there’s even a little library on the Boardwalk!
tedd and Lisa built their own little library. Remarkably, except for the hinge and the clasp, all of the materials that tedd used were salvaged. some pieces were scraps from a deck tedd installed. tedd and Lisa’s little library is in the shape of a boat bow. there’s a dedication plaque to the Almster, and a “signature” plate with tedd’s name on it.
tedd said he is amazed at how well the library box has been received. People will drive up to their house just to use the library. Lisa said, “It’s such a joy –my mom will always be here with us.”
s he also noted that tedd’s time, talents and love went into that box. It’s one of a kind – and tedd will not be building another one.
Summer tradition: reading at the beach
I asked Lisa if she had a theme for her little library. Her reply was simple: “ this is a summer resort, and people like their beach books.”
SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK BENCH
by Bill Quain
A local artist has started adding handmade items to t he Almster’s Little Library. there are tiny turtles made from small stones, shells or sea glass. Each is initialed by the artist, and they are free for the taking. But a handblown glass stingray is a prized gift that Lisa kept for herself. It showed up on the Almster’s birthday this year. It was a nice surprise and a lasting memory.
The Almster visits Japan and Australia.
she observed that women go for romance authors such as Danielle steel and Nora Roberts, but they also like James Patterson. Men tend towards John grisham. Fiction seems to be more popular than nonfiction. there is a big demand for children’s books, which go out quicker than they come in. Lisa will sometimes look for children’s books at yard sales, or put an IsO (In search Of) post on one of the local Facebook pages when her children’s book supply gets too low.
Libraries: They aren’t just books anymore!
Many little libraries are stocking more than just books these days. Lisa recently introduced puzzles, and sometimes stocks card games such as u NO. You may even find children’s DVDs.
One of tedd and Lisa’s neighbors, an 83-year-old gentleman, created a Pokémon site at the little library for his grandchildren. I have to confess that I have absolutely no idea how this works. Apparently, there have been Almster sightings in both Japan and Australia. I’m assuming it is some sort of “geocaching,” but then… I’m not really sure how that works either!
Readers: Share your little library experiences!
OK, now it is your turn. Do you have a little library experience? Who is your favorite librarian, and what is their story? Have you ever donated a book, a puzzle, or a special token? 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.
for our community, bringing the excitement of cinema back to Ocean City.
Its reopening promises to enhance the entertainment options available to residents and visitors, reaffirming Ocean City as a vibrant destination for leisure and family-friendly activities. With its prime location on the Boardwalk, the Moorlyn square theatre is poised to become a hub of entertainment and community engagement once again.
“We are thrilled to see the Moorlyn square theatre reopen its doors to the public,” said Patrick McMahon, President of the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. “ this revitalization not only restores a beloved venue but also contributes positively to our local economy and enhances the overall experience of our boardwalk.”
For more information and movie times please visit www.squaretheatres.com.
Formica and Rando put Atlantic City on the bread map
By William Sokolic
In 1909, Rando Bakery opened its doors on Mississippi Avenue in Atlantic City. t he Chicago Cubs were seven years away from their first game in Wrigley Field. Like the Cubs and Wrigley Field, Rando’s remains in business, one of two major bread manufacturers in the resort, responsible for making subs and hoagies the envy of the Western World, or at least the world of south Jersey. the other, Formica’s Freitag Bakery, opened its doors in 1919. together, they put Atlantic City on the bread map, and by connection, subs and hoagies.
Each company has its own niche, general Manager, steve Rando, says.
Rando’s sells 30,000 long rolls a day to 300 shops, restaurants, stores, pizzerias, delis and more. One of Rando’s largest accounts is the famed White House sub shop on Mississippi and Arctic Avenues.
“We go as far north as Hammonton and south to stone Harbor. Wildwood prefers softer rolls. We’re content with what we have,” Rando says.
Another of Rando's customers is Absecon’s Joe and John's Pizza & Restaurant, a relationship owner giovanna Pugliese believes could go back 30 years or more. "We use a lot of rolls," Pugliese says. "It's fresh bread, not too hard, not too soft.”
You might say the bread is as much the cause of the success of subs as the meat and condiments.
“It's important comfort food," Pugliese says.
Formica’s produces 20,000 to 50,000 sub rolls a day. t he most popular fresh variety is a 20-inch sub bread.
“Our fresh distribution is to over 500 customers, that includes all the Atlantic City casinos, Live Casino Philly, and the Wells Fargo Center,” says Frank Formica, grandson of the founder and a longtime executive with the company. “We make and deliver fresh bread 365 days a year. the fresh bread business is relatively stable but can vary with the national and local economic trends.”
Not everyone buys the rolls just to hold the content of subs. “I have one
on my counter at home right now. My wife and I love them, and often buy them just to slather with butter and dunk into a hot bowl of soup,” says Joseph t. sheridan, director of the Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management program at Atlantic Cape Community College.
“ the Atlantic City sub roll is an iconic Jersey shore tradition with a history spanning over 100 years,” he says. “With its crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior, the roll offers a perfect crunch and absorbs the moisture from meats, tomatoes, oil, and more. this beloved local product is a delicious example of how regional foods help define a culture and its culinary heritage.”
to the importance of the local water supply for the success.
Mario, Frank and Dominic “ tar” Formica took over the business from their father.
In 1987, Frank D. Formica, Mario’s son, purchased the business from his uncles.
t hen in May 2019, entrepreneur Pat McKenna, from the restaurant, taste of Italy, took over the 100-year-old bakery and continues to make the hand-crafted Italian bread with the same basic recipe that Frank's grandfather used.
In January 2022, Formica partnered with Freitag Bakery, founded by August Freitag in Camden in 1890. together, the two companies bring more than 200 years to the kitchen.
Legend has it that the unique flavor and texture come from the local water, making this roll impossible to replicate anywhere else, s heridan says.
Ah. Here we see a divergence of thought among the two producers.
“ t he two key factors to the bread’s popularity and uniqueness are the century old recipe of time and the water source, the 17 trillion-gallon Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer which is the purest, naturally soft water source in the united states,” Formica says.
Anthony sacco, of sack O’ subs, a Formica customer, supports the contention that the water contributes to the taste and texture of the bread. “ the water makes a difference,” he says.
steve Rando does not subscribe
“It’s not the water,” he says. Indeed, the same bread can be baked in California and Las Vegas just the same...with the right recipe.
t hat said, Rando will match Atlantic City bread with any state. the texture, the look, the way the bread is scored. “It’s in the middle between hard and soft.”
Formica’s, since 2022, known as Formica-Freitag Bakery, has added a frozen line. Over a three-year period, the team perfected this process of fully-baked-frozen Atlantic City sub bread. “After demonstrating it to national food distributors, sub chains and supermarkets we have an exciting task to complete this year,” Formica says.
that could boost production by 100,000 loaves a day. “For fresh sales, we deliver in a 60-mile radius, for frozen sales, nationwide. We ship our frozen to both Hard Rock Hotel Casinos in Florida and 41 shopRites’ owned by the saker Family in North Central Jersey,” he says.
History of the people who make the bread that makes Atlantic City famous
Francesco Formica opened the bakery with his wife Rosa in 1919 bringing his legendary hand-crafted loaves of bread to Atlantic City from Italy. the bakery moved to its current location - 2310 Arctic Avenue – in 1928.
Business took off during World War II when soldiers traveled through and trained in Atlantic City. t hey made the “sub” marine sandwich popular thereby increasing the demand for great Italian bread. After the war,
Anthony and Candalora Rando lived on top of the Old Atlantic City Italian Bakery while operating the bakery downstairs. t heir first son, Jake Rando was born in 1912. Candalora traveled to Italy in 1913 and gave birth to their second child Bridget Rando. Vincent Rando was born in 1914.
Rando’s is a fifth-generation family owned and operated business, the family lived at 122 N. Mississippi Ave (next to the Italy terrance) where the bakery moved to and operated until they purchased property at 128 N. Mississippi Avenue. they built a house there in 1945. the current location of the bakery was built behind the house in 1949. the family home was torn down in 2007 but the bakery still remains. the bakery was owned and operated by sons, Nicholas sr. and s alvatore until Nicholas's death in 1997 and salvatore’s in 2003.
Rando Bakery
128 N. Mississippi Avenue Atlantic City (609) 345-6678 Randobakery.com
Formica Freitag Bakery 2310 Arctic Avenue Atlantic City (609) 344-2732
Formicabakery.com
William Sokolic is a veteran journalist who has written for daily, weekly and monthly publications. He’s covered a wide range of news, features and entertainment stories. Much of his work concerns tourism, Atlantic City, and the gaming industry.
Frank Formica in front of Formica Freitag Bakery & Cafe. Photo credit: Formica Freitag Bakery & Cafe on Facebook
Stephen Rando and Cholo Herrera
Vazquez showing off some of their fresh bread. Photo credit: Cholo Herrera
Vazquez and A. Rando Bakery on Facebook
OCEAN AQUARIUM
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Seldon, Figueroa earn impressive wins
By David Weinberg
The showroom at tropicana
Atlantic City is considered one of the city’s iconic boxing arenas.
Its reputation started in the 1980s, when promoters Don Elbaum and the late ted Menas held their legendary “ tuesday Night Fights” there.
t he pair hosted an incredible 196 cards at the trop – 181 were on tuesday nights - from 1981 to 1986, usually in front of sellout crowds. the series served as the proving ground for many East Coast fighters. Future world champions Maurice Blocker and simon Brown got their starters there. so did Vineland’s Mario Maldonaldo, who is being inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame later this summer.
“I told the people at the trop to give me their slowest entertainment
night of the week and I’ll turn it into their best,” Elbaum said in an earlier interview. “ they picked tuesday.”
A decade later, Vineland’s Diane Lee Fischer – who also owned a hair salon at the trop - held a number of successful events at the s howroom, including the city’s first all-female card in 1997.
Now it’s promoter Larry g oldberg’s turn to try to continue the tradition.
goldberg, an Atlantic City High school graduate and Margate native, staged his second card at the trop last saturday with Boxing Insider Promotions and delivered a solid product.
What makes the showroom so special for boxing is that the cheap seats are the best seats.
While high rollers watched saturday’s show from the front row, avid fans packed the bleachers on the stage to watch local standouts Bruce seldon Jr. and Justin Figueroa in action.
Lindy Hops
“It was just incredible to see and hear so many people cheering for me,” seldon said.
Both fighters treated their fans to impressive victories.
seldon (2-0, 2 KOs), an Absegami High s chool graduate who lives in smithville, scored a second-round knockout over Isaiah Margheim (1-4), of sandusky, Ohio.
Figueroa (10-0, 8 KOs), a Holy spirit High school grad and former Atlantic City lifeguard, stopped Nica -
ragua’s Freddy Espinosa (10-7, 7 KOs) in the third round.
Both local fighters are taking different paths.
seldon, son of former WBA heavyweight champion Bruce seldon, is a relatively late bloomer at age 29, but has made quick progress.
Continued on 52
Photos by Benjamin Howard
u nder the guidance of Pleasantville trainer Julio s anchez, he displayed a well-balance repertoire against Margheim, connecting with jabs, body shots and hooks to register three knockdowns before referee Eric Dali halted the scheduled fourround bout at 1 minute, 45 seconds of the second round.
did everything we asked him to do. I didn’t care if (Margheim) turned southpaw or no paw. Once Bruce established his jab, that was the result he was going to get.
“I give him a B-plus. People have to understand that this was his second fight ever. He didn’t have an amateur career. so I’ve been very pleased with what he’s done so far.”
“He had a little bit of nervous energy because of the crowd,” seldon said. “But once he settled down, he
Figueroa, 25, dominated his scheduled six-rounder against Espinoza.
He controlled the pace throughout. Espinoza gamely tried to fight back, but Figueroa’s pressure ultimately wore him out. Midway through the third, Figueroa forced him into the ropes and unleashed a flurry that prompted Dali to wisely halt the bout at 1:25 of the round.
“ the job is definitely not finished,” Figueroa said. “All the sacrifice and hard work that’s been put in to help me get to this point paid off.”
Both are expected to be back at the trop before the end of the year.
s eldon is scheduled to fight on sept 7 in Carteret (Middlesex County) for Vineland’s Rising star Promotions, then will likely be back in Atlantic City in October.
TIRE AND SERVICE EXPERTS
Figueroa, who fought in Indio, California and s an Antonio, texas earlier this year, could venture out to somewhere like Las Vegas, but given his immense popularity in his hometown, it shouldn’t be too long before he’s back on the boardwalk.
“ t hanks to everyone for showing the love,” Figueroa said. “We’re going to put Atlantic City back on the boxing map.”
Margate Memorials set for Friday
t he 74th Margate World War II Memorials lifeguard race is scheduled for Friday at Margate’s Decatur Avenue beach.
Vasser won the swim last year and Longport’s Mike Mcg rath took top honors in the singles row.
the event is considered the second leg of lifeguard racing’s “Big three,” along with last week’s Dutch Hoffman’s in Wildwood and next week’s south Jersey Championships.
Atlantic City is the defending champion at Margate, though it could face a stiff challenge from Avalon, which won the Dutch Hoffman’s.
Brigantine brothers Jack and Joe savell are the defending champs in the doubles row. Margate’s Zach
SJSSBL playoffs continue the semifinals of the south Jersey south shore Baseball League playoffs got underway this week. top-seeded and defending champion Margate Hurricanes are playing the fourth-seeded Ventnor Baysox while second-seeded Buena Blue Dawgs take on third-seeded Hammonton Hotshots.
David is a nationally recognized sports columnist who has covered Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his own Facebook page, Dave Weinberg Extra Points. Send comments to weinbergd419@comcast.net.
the s avell brothers and Vasser both won at the Dutch Hoffman’s last week.
Photos by Benjamin Howard
Lucy the Elephant 1881
First Gasoline Powered Car 1889
First Airplane flight 1903
First Philadelphia Phillies Game 1883
Entertainment & Dining at the Shore
Whitney’s Weekly Picks
The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman
This week’s edition of t he City Pulse - Whitney’s Picks features an eclectic lineup of events and entertainment including the World s eries of Arm Wrestling, the much anticipated annual DJX Expo, the iconic sound of the Black Eyed Peas and more. Let’s celebrate and shine a spotlight on these local venues. Don’t forget to share your epic moments with the hashtags #shorelocal, #gotowhitney & #thecitypulse.
Who: Jared Freid: the Family Business tour
Where: Borgata Hotel Casino & spa | Music Box
When: Friday, Aug. 2
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: borgata.mgmresorts.com/ en/entertainment/the-music-box/ jared-freid.html
Jared’s comedy is current and reflects the ordinary daily thoughts of everyone you know, especially if you
know a lot of millennials obsessing over dating apps, trying to be real adults and worrying about their bodies. Don’t miss Jared Fried.
Who: Pink talking Fish
Where: tropicana Atlantic City
When: Friday, Aug. 2
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: caesars.com/tropicana-ac/ shows
Pink talking Fish is a fusion of Pink
Floyd, talking Heads and Phish, and they are taking over the tropicana showroom
Who: Nate Bargatze
Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino | Etess Arena
When: Friday, Aug. 2
Time: 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Website: casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/nate-bargatze
Prepare for a night of unrivaled comedy as Nate Bargatze brings his signature humor to Atlantic City for two hilarious stand-up shows. His storytelling prowess guarantees an evening full of laughter.
Who: Alex Pearlman
Where: Anchor Rock Club
When: Friday, Aug. 2
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: anchorrockclub.
com
Alex Pearlman, better known as Pearlmania500 or “ that Yelling guy from tiktok,” is a comedian who has been delighting audiences across social media with his 3-minute rants. He’s amassed more than 2.7 million followers across all platforms with his comedic commen -
tary and has been featured on CNN, t he Washington Post, and podcasts such as “ the Joe Rogan Experience.”
What: World series of Arm Wrestling
Where: t he Yard | Bally’s
Atlantic City
When: saturday, Aug. 3
Time: 1 p.m.
Website: casinos.ballys. com/atlantic-city/summer-events.htm
the World series of Arm Wrestling is an exciting competition that showcases raw power, determina -
What: Atlantic City triathlon | try AC
Where: Atlantic City Boardwalk
When: saturday, Aug. 3
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Website: delmosports.com/events/ atlantic-city-triathlon-new-jerseys-best-triathlons the 14th Annual tRI AC challenges athletes with a .25-mile swim, 11-mile bike and 5k run finishing on the Boardwalk. the triathlon also features an Olympic distance triathlon consisting of a 1-mile swim, 22-mile bike and 10k run.
tion and strategy. Competitors from across the nation gather to test their strength.
Bar at 2:30 p.m., Firewaters saloon 3:15 p.m., tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 5 p.m. and Boogie Nights 9 p.m.
Who: America
Where: Ocean Casino Resort
What: Mrs. Roper Romp Bar Crawl
Where: Ms. America monument
When: saturday, Aug. 3
Time: 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. then Boogie Nights 9 p.m.
Website: www.facebook. com/events/s/mrs-roper-romp-on-the-atlantic/1005968720885991/ Calling all Helens of Atlantic City.
You’re invited for an afternoon of fun during the Roper Romp. stroll the famous Boardwalk while making history. stops include Hooters Patio
When: saturday, Aug. 3
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: theoceanac.com/america grammy award winning British-American rock band America takes the stage at Ovation Hall, thrilling audiences with their timeless sound. get your tickets before it’s sold out.
Who: Modi: Live in Atlantic City
Where: Borgata Hotel Casino & spa
When: saturday, Aug. 3
Time: 8 p.m.
↘Continued on 56
Website: borgata.mgmresorts.com/ en/entertainment/the-music-box/ modi.html
Voted one of the top 10 comedians
but then things turn deadly. It will be up to you to solve “ slay and the City.”
Please note this is not a dinner event, but a cash bar is available.
in New York City by the Hollywood Reporter, this is a must-see comedy event. get your tickets before it’s sold out.
What: slay and the City: A Killer Cosmo August
Where: Resorts Casino Hotel | starlight Room
When: saturday, Aug. 3
Time: 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Website: resortsac.com/entertainment/slay-and-the-city-a-killer-cosmo/ the ladies from Manhattan have gathered for drinks (cosmos, obviously),
SERVING BREAKFAST
Saturday & Sunday 8am - 11am
Who: Black Eyed Peas
Where: Ocean Casino Resort
When: sunday, Aug. 4
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: theoceanac. com/entertainment/ headliners/black-eyedpeas
t he Black Eyed Peas with opener the Keith Harris Experience take
What: g rand opening of t he simpson
Restaurant & Bar, the s piked Bakery and Hennigan’s Brewery
Where: ACX1 t he Pier at Caesars
When: sunday, Aug. 4
Time: Noon - 6 p.m.
Website: acx1studios. com
Come to the splash 98.5 beach party featuring g randmaster Dee from Whodini, Laika and Camille K at the ACX1 Boardwalk stage. While there, shop at Design Jewelry and the other tenants.
over Ocean Casino Resort’s Ovation Hall with their chart-topping party anthems. get your tickets to see one of Billboard’s hot 100 artists of the decade.
When: Every saturday Time: 3 p.m.
Website: joeholiday.com/live
What: DJX ’24 DJ Expo
Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
When: Aug. 5-8
Time: check the website for times
Website: djxshow.com
DJX embodies the passion and power of the DJ community and is a magnet for seasoned veterans and those first entering the industry.
What: Joe Holiday Live, the Magic & Comedy Hour
Where: Wyndham’s skyline tower
Check out magician Joe Holiday LIVE at Wyndham’s skyline tower for the magic comedy hour every saturday.
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!
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
Enjoy an ice cold Margarita or Boat Drink because it’s always 5 o’clock here!
Friday, August 2
Nate Bargatze
▶7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess
Arena
Classic Albums Live: Rumours
▶9 p.m.
Resorts Atlantic City
Pink Talking Fish
▶9 p.m.
tropicana showroom
Saturday, August 3
America
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Kansas
▶8 p.m.
Atlantic City Headliners
Circus Maximus theater at Caesars
Sunday, August 4
Black Eyed Peas
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Monday, August 5
Pop Divas
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Friday, August 9
Whiskey Myers with Blackberry Smoke
▶7:30 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
Air Supply
▶9 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Saturday, August 10
Shinedown
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Arena
Sunday, August 11
Super Trans Am
▶ 4 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Friday, August 16
Tony Danza
▶ 8:30 p.m.
s uperstar t heater at Re -
sorts
Stray Cats ▶ 9 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Saturday, August 17
Gwen Stefani ▶ 8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Boyz II Men ▶8 p.m.
Borgata Event Center
38 Special ▶9 p.m.
golden Nugget Atlantic City
David Atell
▶7 p.m. the Music Box at Borgata
Friday, August 23
Bush w/ Jerry Cantrell & Candlebox
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
Trevor Noah
▶9 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Saturday, August 24
Andrew Schulz
▶7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
On-Sale This Week
Trace Adkins
▶Fri. Oct. 4, 8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
Johnny Mathis
▶sat. Oct. 26, 7 p.m.
Circus Maximus theater at Caesars
Lenny Kravitz
▶Fri. Nov. 1, 9 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Gary Owens
▶Fri. Nov. 1, 9 p.m.
Harrah’s Atlantic City
David Spade
▶sat. Nov. 9, 8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Tickets on-sale Fri. Aug. 2, 10 a.m.
Gwen Stefani Photo and Graphic / Courtesy Gwen Stefani
Absecon Concerts in the Park
▶sunday, Aug. 4, 7 p.m.
Free outdoor concerts
Heritage Park 699 Blenheim Ave.
this week, enjoy live music from the Motts Creek Pickers, playing their unique blend of acoustic free style. 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, Aug. 2, 7 – 9 p.m.
Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater in tony Canale Park
Bring your blankets and chairs. this week, enjoy live music by Poor Mouth Henry.
Galloway Music in the Park
▶Friday, Aug. 9, 6 – 8 p.m.
g alloway township Municipal Complex 300 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd.
Music by the Blue street Band, and delicious food from Dominics tavern, Donut NV and Romanelli’s Beer and Wine garden from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Jazz on the Beach
▶thursday, Aug. 8, 7 – 10 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza 2300 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Join the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation for their free concert series. On Aug. 8, Jazz on the Beach returns with live music by sean Jones & Baltimore Jazz Collec-
Photo by John Loreaux
tive, with local jazz artist IDEA Youth Music Collective. In the event of rain, the show will be moved to the Claridge Hotel stage 4th floor. Visit www. chickenbonebeach.org for updates. Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk
▶Wednesday, Aug. 7, 7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza 2300 Boardwalk, Atlantic City this week, the Devon Allman Project takes the stage. the living legacy of classic southern rock & americana soul blues arrives in Atlantic City for one night only, with a special opening
set by the Jersey shore’s own the Billy Walton Band. For more information, visit tonymart.com.
Somers Point Beach Concert Series
▶Friday, Aug. 2, 7 p.m.
William Morrow Beach 800 Bay Ave.
the somers Point Beach Concert s eries continues with tom Hambridge & the Rattlesnakes. the fourtime g rammy nominated Nashville producer and songwriter performs the music he wrote and produced for susan tedeschi, Lynyrd skynyrd, ZZ
top, and Buddy g uy, among others. Visit www.somerspointbeachconcerts.com for the full summer lineup. Tony Mart Rocks The Point ▶thursdays, 6 – 10 p.m. the Point 998 Bay Ave. somers Point
tony Mart Rocks the Point every t hursday night through Aug. 29. Jersey shore rock ‘n roll guitar hero, Billy Walton, will perform with his full band all summer long. For more information, visit tonymart.com.
Ventnor City Summer Beach Jam ▶saturday, Aug. 3, 5:30 p.m.
Newport Avenue Beach
Listen to live music by the beach. this week, enjoy live music by Ricky stevens at 6 p.m., playing the best in country and rock music, followed by the Derek Crider Band at 7 p.m. Food and crafters will be ready to serve you at 5 p.m.
Ventnor City Sunset at Ski Beach
▶Wednesday, Aug. 7, 6 p.m.
ski Beach Dorset & Burk Ave. Watch the sunset and listen to live music by the bay. this week, enjoy live music by the sensational soul Cruisers, playing the best of Motown, Philly soul, and R&B. Live music begins at 6 p.m. with food and crafters ready to serve you at 5 p.m.
CIRCLE LIQUOR STORE
Its Rose Season! New Wines Arriving
Photos by Steffen Klenk
B10cc delivers classics and rarities at OC Music Pier
ritish rockers 10cc brought their performed at the Ocean City Music Pier on Monday, July 29, 2024, as part of the Monday Night Concert series. Led by acclaimed songwriter
graham gouldman, the band played an array of hit songs and rarities spanning their entire catalog. Audiences enjoyed hearing such songs as “I’m Not in Love,” “ t he Wall street shuffle,” “ t he things We Do for Love,” and “Dreadlock Holiday.”
t he show was opened by singer-songwriter Robin taylor Zander, son of Cheap trick frontman Robin Zander, opened the show with a solo acoustic set.
Tune In, Turn On
By Doug Deutsch
New Orleans on the Boardwalk and the Hard Rock experience
ew Orleans Comes to AC: Last Wednesday night’s tony Mart Legacy Last Waltz concert at Kennedy Plaza on the Atlantic City Boardwalk was memorable for a few reasons.
the Honey Island swamp Band, like most of the evening’s performers, hailed from New Orleans, yet did a fantastic job of being the “house band” for the evening, performing timeless classics by t he Band, (“ shape I’m In,” “Ophelia,” “Cripple Creek,” “ the Night they Drove Old Dixie Down,” “I shall Be Released,” “ the Weight)” and many other classics during the almost-three-hour, 18-song set.
t hey were joined at various times onstage by Johnny sansone, Dave Malone (Radiators), Mark Mullins (Bonerama), and a “ringer” from North Carolina, guitarist ‘ steady Rollin’ Bob Margolin (pictured), formerly a backing musician for the great Muddy Waters from 1973 to 1980, who performed with Waters and the
Band in “ the Last Waltz.” s ome of New Orleans’ coolest, most talented blues/roots musicians came to the Atlantic City Boardwalk.
“Playing with those guys has been a blast,” guitarist Aaron Wilkinson from the Honey Island swamp Band, told us via email. “Dave (Malone) and Mark (Mullins) and Johnny (s ansone) are good friends from home, but we don’t get to play together much. t hey’re all such incredible players. And Bob Margolin knocked us out. I had no idea he was such a showman. Playing this music down here on the shore is just special. It feels like it was born here in a way, and you can tell it really resonates with people." t he fact that it rained much of the night during the show didn’t deter
many of those in attendance from staying until the very end.
place? May we suggest the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino here in Atlantic City.
Last Friday night, sue and I went to see Hank Williams Jr. in concert (pictured). He may be 75, but he’s still rockin’ that country music in fine form – and was well-behaved on this evening as well. the fun crowd sang along to virtually all of his songs, especially “All My Rowdy Friends (Have settled Down.”)
Prior to the show, we had dinner at the Hard Rock’s newest restaurant, the terrace, which was an enjoyable dining experience overlooking the ocean. t he terrace serves quality cuisine, not just what we refer to as ‘bar food.’ Cool, creative cocktails, too.
After the Hank William’ show, we headed upstairs to Hard Rock’s other new nightspot, the Balcony. It’s located on the casino’s second level where s ound Waves is. Here, partygoers can either boogie inside or head outside and take in the views on their rooftop lounge. so there you have it – music, dining and dancing, all under one roof. start here: casino. hardrock.com.
Tony Mart Mardi Gras on The Boardwalk August schedule: It’s a blues/Americana/roots music lovers delight, with appearances by “the living legacy of classic southern rock,” Devon Allman, on Aug. 7; Dirty Dozen Brass Band (Aug. 21) and one of today’s best, brightest and most talented rock ‘n’ blues guitarists who recently opened for the Rolling stones, samantha Fish (Aug. 28). All shows start at 7 p.m. at Kennedy Plaza in front of Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, family-friendly, and free. s ee tonymart.com.
The Hard Rock Experience: When people go out on the town for a night involving music, food, drink and/or dancing, it often requires frequenting multiple venues. Wouldn’t it be great if all these nightlife adventures could be done in one
Pink Talking Fish in AC: Imagine a band that plays music by trippy rockers Pink Floyd, ’80s new wave rockers talking Heads, and jam band Phish. s ounds like fun, right? t his Friday, Aug. 2 at 9 p.m., tropicana Atlantic City, which has been bringing in some quality-name entertainment of late, in their tropicana s howroom, will host this triple-tribute band, which can go from playing Pink Floyd’s “On the Run,” to Phish’s “You Enjoy Myself,” to talking Heads’ “ slippery People.” Recommended. tickets: livenation.com. u ntil Next Week: tune In turn On, enjoy your summer and please support local.
‘Steady Rollin’ Bob Margolin performing on the AC Boardwalk. Photo
By Doug Deutsch
Country music legend Hank Williams performing at Hard Rock Live at Hard Rock Casino Hotel AC. photo by Doug Deutsch
Devon Allman, living legacy of southern rock, plays AC Boardwalk Wednesday
By Doug Deutsch
One of classic s outhern
Rock’s most loved bands, the Allman Brothers Band, have lived on through the ABB-influenced music of the legendary group’s offspring – e.g. Duane Betts (Dickey Bett’s son), Melody trucks and Vaylor trucks (Butch truck’s children), and gregg Allman’s son, Devon Allman. Currently fronting the Devon Allman Project and on tour across the u s ., the 51-year-old guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, and record producer performs Wednesday, Aug. 7 at Mardi g ras on the Boardwalk presented by tony Mart (7 p.m., free).
Allman – hailed by tony Mart Concerts Promoter, Carmen Marotta, as “ the Living Legacy of Classic southern Rock” – is also set to release “Miami
Moon,” his first new album in eight years, Aug. 16 on his own Create Records label. Allman also reconnects with his pal, the aforementioned Duane Betts, for a slate of Allman Betts Family Revival dates beginning November 30 in st. Charles, IL.
Devon kindly took some time to answer some interview questions (thanks to his Manager Rueben Williams).
DD: Hi Devon, thanks for spending some time with us to answer these questions. Let’s discuss when and why you decided to record and release ‘Miami Moon,’ your first new album in eight years?
DEVON: It was time for me to make an album that really showcased some of my true loves musically, like Curtis Mayfield and sade, among others. I had gone long enough since I had made a solo record. When you’re part of an ensemble cast, it’s a game to work as a team, but there’s another side of creativity that allows for more personal musical growth where the framework can be a bit more elastic. I love both team work and solo work…but eight years is a long time…so it was time.
DD: You’ve assembled a powerful lineup of musicians to record with you on ‘Miami Moon.’ How did you get all those A-Listers to jump on board the project?
DEVON: I texted them and asked, they said yes! :)
DD: You chose to release the song “White Horse” as the first single and video off Miami Moon. Can you tell us why?
DEVON: I felt like “White Horse” would let folks know right away this is a different record for me!
DD: In November you’ll co-lead the Eighth Annual Allman Betts Family Revival that you have kept alive and thriving all these years with Duane Betts. How are you able to keep such a busy work schedule?
DEVON: I try not to think about it (laughs) I just plow down the road man.
DD: Discuss the relationship you and Duane Betts have.
DEVON: We laugh a lot when together. We dig talking about music. We dig beaches, fine dinners of fish and flesh, world travel, excellent coffees and our wives are great friends. Duane and I have been family for a long time.
DD: What can the people that come to see your show on the Atlan -
tic City Boardwalk on Aug. 7 expect to see/hear from the Devon Allman Project?
DEVON: My solo shows lately have been a fun romp through my career. touching on every iteration of band and album that I’ve worked on over the last two decades.
DD: talk about the ways you continue to honor both your father’s legacy and that of the Allman Brother Band.
DEVON: Come check out an Allman Betts Family Revival show this winter and see for yourself!
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.
Devon Allman. (Photo Courtesy Thunderbird Management)
GO FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT ALL SUMMER LONG .
SUNDAYS
NOW - SEPTEMBER 1
Get ready for the ultimate tribute to the 1970’s , featuring classic singalongs and arena anthems that will take you back in time from icons such as The Eagles , Hall & Oates , Queen, Foreigner and more.
WEEKLY
NOW - AUGUST 2 9
Spec tacular live show celebrating the most iconic women in music histor y such as Madonna, Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears , Taylor Swif t and more.
'Roper Romp' to roll into Atlantic City
By Bill Sokolic
Does Helen Roper trigger a memory? Didn’t think so. How about Audra Lindley? Ring a bell?
Not a chance huh?
You’re probably not alone.
Mention “ three’s Company” and that might jog your brain cells a bit, maybe enough to know the name Helen Roper if not Audra Lindley, the actress who played the caftan robed character on the show.
the point of this quickie quiz on a relatively minor late 70s sitcom character is that Helen Roper has become the subject of a bar crawl. the Roper Romp rolls into Atlantic City on Aug. 3, visiting several places along the Boardwalk, with more than a few participants donning caftan and curly-frizzy hair (or a wig to capture Mrs. Roper’s style.)
If you’re scratching your head over an event named after Helen, we don’t blame you. But ever since it debuted in New Orleans in 2013, the Roper Romp has done its own slow crawl
beyond the Big Easy.
“After having attended one in another location, I felt like this would be so fabulous for Atlantic City,” says Connie Bragg, event producer. “I pitched the concept and got a couple crazy looks that turned to ‘okays’ and it built from there. It was so well received by the venues, I hated having to say, ‘sorry, we’re booked up’ to other venues wanting to be a part of the AC Boardwalk Mrs. Roper Romp. Our venues have been beyond exceptional partners.”
the romp begins at 2 p.m. the Patio Bar at Hooters in the tropicana. Buy Helen's Hooch Margaritas for $10. Come 3:15 move onto Firewater's saloon at the trop for another $10 drink special and an "Oh stanley" contest. stanley was Helen’s husband in the show, played by Philadelphia native and temple university grad.
Do the Regal Beagle Boardwalk strut to Bally's at 4 p.m. for a stop at either Bally's Beach Bar for a $5 cover and music or the Yards, with no cover and games.
go to Boardwalk Hall at 5 p.m. for the Miss America Best Dressed Helen crowning. stroll on over to the tennessee Avenue Beer Hall beginning at 5:15 for food and drink specials and 70s and 80s music.
Close out the night back the tropicana at 9 p.m. for an encore celebration at Boogie Nights with the fourth group photo of the day. And more 70s and 80s tunes. It is Boogie Nights after all. Free admission to those in costume. If you're still there at midnight, take part in the Roper Romp Off Contest.
“ the Mrs. Roper Romp and Boogie Nights are a match made in retro heaven,” said David Pena, owner and creator of Boogie Nights dance club. “At Boogie Nights we strive to create an atmosphere that is campy, nostalgic and encourages over-the-top costumes and kitschy fun. the Mrs. Roper Romp is the perfect example of the type of entertainment and ca-
maraderie that we embrace here at Boogie Nights. Connie’s vision for this Mrs. Roper Romp on the boardwalk is a reminder of what makes Atlantic City so unique. We can’t wait to be the official encore celebration for this iconic event.”
s ays Bragg: “We were so lucky that Boogie Nights was interested in participating-such a great fit.”
Bragg credits the impact Helen had on the generation that grew up then. g enX’ers, who connect to “ three’s Company” as a connection to their childhood.
“ t hey are now mostly around the age of Helen’s character in the sitcom,” Bragg said. “ this event pays homage to Helen and other characters from the show that were such a major influence on the generation. though her character was depicted as sometimes ditzy and known for her attire, she was fun, energetic, loving, and accepting of people’s differences as encountered on the show. she provided an example of how to be graceful while fun in sometimes uncomfortable situations.”
Lest we forget, Helen and stanley got their own spinoff – “ the Ropers” – which ran for more than a year.
“Helen’s character was the epitome of a classic housewife, in a stereotypical role for women. Yet, she was a care-free, confident, independent force and provided an example of the expanding possibilities for not only women, but mainstream thinking during a changing time in our country. I think we all have a little Helen in us who’s a little bit silly, is fun to be around with and over what people think of appearances who advocates for everyone to be treated equally so we can all have fun,” she says.
In addition to Atlantic City and New Orleans, the Roper Romps have taken place in North Jersey, Indiana, and Rhode Island, among more than 100 locations this summer alone.
Photos courtesy of Janine Suggs of the Northern New Jersey Roper Romp.
Four for the show: A look at the summer’s resident productions
By Chuck Darrow
Once upon a time (as in prior to Pennsylvania legalizing casinos) the summer always brought with it seasonal production shows. During the last week of June and first week of July, it wasn’t unusual to see the opening of at least a half-dozen revues whose schedules featured six or eight performances a week for eight or nine weeks.
thanks to the Keystone state’s siphoning of the millions of bus riders who used to regularly visit Atlantic City, such presentations were no longer as crucial to gaming halls’ marketing efforts as they once were. But while their numbers and frequency have diminished, the temporary resident production show (as op -
posed to “ the Hook” at Caesars Atlantic City, which is a permanent, year-round attraction) hasn’t totally faded from the local casino-entertainment scene. Currently, there are four such programs on the boards, three of which are produced by AyCee-based impresario Allen Valentine. Below is a look at them:
Super Trans Am (Ocean Casino Resort; 4 p.m. Sunday through Sept. 1; ticketmaster.com):
the only attraction not conceived and staged by Valentine features super trans Am, a five-piece rock band that focuses on classic-rock anthems of the 1970s.
Essentially, the quintet is a cover band on steroids; they don’t do anything that bands in bars all across America don’t do on any given saturday night, but they have the budget to
juice the material with an interesting and engaging video presentation (e.g. clips from Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein” are displayed during the band’s rendition of “Frankenstein” by the Edgar Winter g roup). that, combined with the individual and collective talents of the five band members make for a solid 75 or so minutes of guitar-based nostalgia as the repertoire also includes such ’70s sonic totems as tom Petty &
the Heartbreakers’ “American g irl,” “ the Boys Are Back in town” by t hin Lizzy, t he Eagles’ “ take It Easy,” Peter Frampton’s “ s how Me the Way” and a medley that mashes up Alice Cooper’s “ school’s Out” with Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick In the Wall” (the connection being the latter’s jaundiced view of education).
‘Pop Divas’ (Ocean; various show times through Aug. 29; ticketmaster.com): the only one of Valentine’s productions that is brand new, “Pop Divas” pays tribute to a number of popular music’s female megastars.
As per his successful musical-salute blueprint, this isn’t a “Legends in Concert”-style affair featuring clones of famous artists, but a celebration of
↘Continued on 66
various artists and their most revered tunes via original arrangements and choreography performed by a small army of performers (including seven vocalists, 10 dancers and the eight crackerjack musicians who comprise what, for a lack of an actual moniker, we’ll call the Allen Valentine Orchestra, as the unit propels many of the producer’s local efforts).
“Pop Divas” is typically rich-looking and eye-catching, thanks to Kristine Valentine’s smart costume designs and an impressive video presentation boasting some really cool AI-generated graphics (Valentine appears to be taking the lead in terms
of incorporating the cutting-edge technology into live entertainment).
“Pop Divas” slightly differs from
THURSDAY - AUGUST 1
Radio Revolution Duo 5pm-8pm
FRIDAY - AUGUST 2
Bar None Band 8pm-12am
SATURDAY - AUGUST 3
Turtle Heads Band 8pm-12am
SUNDAY - AUGUST 4
Big Foot Band 4pm-7pm
TUESDAY - AUGUST 6
Frankie G and Johnny Keys Duo 7pm-10pm
FRIDAY - AUGUST 9
Big Foot Band 8pm-12am
SATURDAY - AUGUST 10
Twisted Livin Band 4:30pm-7:30pm
99 Reasons Band 8pm-12am
SUNDAY - AUGUST 11
THE O'FENDERS BAND 4pm-8pm
MONDAY 7pm-9pm
such Valentine efforts as “Disco Inferno” (see below) and “Motown Forever” in that it occasionally takes its foot off the pedal to allow for slower tunes, most notably Dionne Carole’s stunning rendition of the beloved Whitney Houston ballad, “I Will Always Love You.”
the only real problem with “Pop Divas” is what it doesn’t include (because of time restraints): songs by, among others, Pat Benatar, Deborah Harry, Cyndi Lauper, Carly simon and Carole King. Well, there’s always the possibility of “Pop Divas II,” I guess.
‘Disco Inferno’ (Bally’s Atlantic City; 8 p.m. Sunday through Sept. 8; ticketweb.com): this is the third iteration of the atomic-powered revusical (it debuted in 2018 as “Disco Live” at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and subsequently had a run under the “Disco Inferno” banner at Resorts Casino-Hotel).
isn’t still an adults-only hoot. the featured female performers bring the art and craft of old-school stripping to life in ways that are sensual, but never vulgar, and the Albanian Balla Brothers, a duo that does a fascinating balancing act, are real crowd-pleasers.
But as always, the best reason to see “ the Burlesque show” is comic/ emcee Chris Morris, whose arsenal of good, old-fashioned (and wonderfully politically incorrect) dirty jokes keeps the audience in stitches throughout the presentation.
THURSDAY 8:30pm -12:30am
t he crowd at a recent performance was literally dancing in the aisles to a jukebox-full of beat-heavy 1970s hits, among them the trammps’ track from which the show gets its name (and, to these ears, the genre’s greatest song of all); “Jive talkin’” and “ staying Alive” by the Bee g ees; “Bad g irls” and “Last Dance” by Donna summer and, of course, “YMCA” and “Macho Man” by the Village People.”
One final thought: It is obvious Valentine has absolutely mastered the casino-production-show format—and Atlantic City’s gaming industry has been the richer for it (literally and figuratively). But to this observer, at least, the time has come for him to take his gifts as a creator and producer to the next level (whatever that may be). Here’s hoping he gets the chance in 2025.
‘ The Burlesque Show’ (Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa; 9 p.m.Thursdays through Sept. 26; ticketmaster.com):
Our town’s naughtiest, bawdiest show is back for its 11th year at the Big B’s Music Box with the same blend of female flesh and raunchy (but mostly hilarious) humor that has made it a local show biz institution. this year’s edition seems to be a little more—for lack of a better word—demure than some of its predecessors, but that doesn’t mean it
Oops
Last week’s column erroneously misidentified the executive pastry chef at Borgata. the position is currently held by David Krzewinski.
And while we’re correcting recent mistakes and oversights, the photo of Jackson Browne and Bruce springsteen performing at the old grandstand under the stars at Bally’s g rand that accompanied our recent story about the venue was taken by shooter extraordinaire tom Briglia.
The Best of the Eagles Tribute Band featuring Mike Dougherty & NGXB August 10th starting at 6:30 PM
Hosted in Parc Renault, which will feature our Renault Food truck, Village Bar, lawn games, and a VIP Lounge area.
Eliot Lewis from Hall & Oates hosted by John King on August 24th starting at 6 PM. Experience an intimate musical performance in our Wine and Beer Garden for an up-close and personal view of the performance with food and drink options.
Live & Local Music Calendar
Thursday, August 1
Atlantic City
LandShark Bar & Grille
smokey starr
5 – 9 p.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
DJ Neek
8 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Dane Anthony
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Steel Pier
Dan Klee
3 – 7 p.m.
Bar None
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Deck at Golden Nugget
B street Band
7 – 11 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
Don’t Call Me Francis
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Linwood
Fox Den at LCC
tom & Kim
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.
Millville
Levoy Theatre
texas Flood: A tribute to stevie
Ray Vaughan
8 p.m.
126-130 N. High st.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Radio Revolution Duo
5 – 8 p.m.
Karaoke Night w/ Mike Dempsey
8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
450 Bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Doug Jennings
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Jeff X
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s glen Eric
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Modern Luxe Duo
7 p.m.
Kicking sunrise
10 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Ian and Christina
6 – 10 p.m.
John McNutt Band
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Steel Pier
Killer B’s
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Whitewalls
8 – 11 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock garden state g roove
5 – 9 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Yard at Bally’s the Royals
10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
1900 Pacific Ave.
Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino the Original Copy
ORDER
SOMERS POINT & EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
650 New Rd.
Gregory’s
John Wood
6 – 8 p.m.
900 shore Rd.
Josie Kelly’s
40 North Duo
7 p.m.
908 shore Rd.
Mexiquila
Live Music
6 – 9 p.m.
101 E. Maryland Ave.
Queen Jayne’s
sKJ Duo
6 – 9 p.m.
264 New Rd.
The Point
Billy Walton Band
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Ventnor
Ventnor Coffee
Open Mic Night w/ Pete g laze & t Five
6:30 – 9 p.m.
108 N. Dorset Ave.
Friday, August 2
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Jeremy Oren
6 p.m.
Dominick Martino
9:15 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
Alex Pearlman
8 p.m.
247 s . New York Ave.
9:30 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
Jamison
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
Philly Keys
6 – 10 p.m.
72 N. Bremen Ave.
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
tony & taylor
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
500 st. Andrews Dr.
Galloway
Romanelli’s Garden Café
Live Music
6 – 9 p.m.
279 s . New York Rd.
Linwood
Fox Den at LCC
Danny Eyer
6 – 10 p.m.
500 shore Rd.
Margate
Memories g rooveheart Duo
7 p.m.
DJ Justin Moreno
10 p.m.
9518 Amherst Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern going Rogue
6 – 10 p.m.
todd Owens
8:30 – 11:30 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Smithville Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light
Brandon Ireland
7 – 10 p.m.
Anchor Rock Club
KitoFest Music & Arts Festival. 7 p.m.
247 s . New York Ave.
Nola’s Bar at Ocean
Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino the Coconutz. 9:30 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House
The Exceptions. Photo credit: The Exceptions Facebook
Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light
steve gitto
7 – 10 p.m.
1 N. New York Rd.
Somers Point
Anchorage Tavern
Live Music
9:30 p.m.
823 Bay Ave.
Caroline’s by the Bay
the turtle Heads
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 Bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Bob & Nick
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Roy Mcgeehan
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Fitzpatrick’s
Phil stocker
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
650 New Rd.
Gregory’s
Live DJ. 9 p.m.
900 shore Rd.
Josie Kelly’s
John Wood Band
9 p.m.
908 shore Rd.
The Point Discoteks
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Strathmere
Deauville Inn
DJ smooth & Friends
2 – 6 p.m.
201 Willard Rd.
Sweetwater
Sweetwater Marina
taylor Lennihan
12 – 4 p.m.
Deck Band
7 – 11 p.m.
2780 7th Ave.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Chrissie Crow: A tribute to sheryl Crow and the Pretenders
7:30 p.m.
217 E. Main st.
Sunday, August 4
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Dueling Pianos. 8 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Fooz Fighters. 8 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Jexxa Duo. 6 – 10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Steel Pier
troy Rusnak
3 – 7 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Fine Italian Cuisine
The Deck at Golden Nugget the Exceptions
2:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Dane Anthony
7:30 p.m. – 11:30 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
My Hero Zero
8:30 – 11:30 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Yard at Bally’s
High Five swan Dive
12 – 4 p.m.
1900 Pacific Ave.
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House Incognito
12 – 4 p.m.
E street shuffle
5 – 9 p.m.
1400 Ocean Ave.
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
Nashville g irls
12 – 4 p.m.
72 N. Bremen Ave.
Margate
Memories
DJ Eric Bartello
6 p.m.
9518 Amherst Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Keep the Change
6 – 10 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Somers Point
Crab Trap
Lew London Duo 6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Rob Lipkin
1 – 4 p.m.
Cole Moore
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Josie Kelly’s traditional Irish session
1 – 4 p.m. the Finns
2:30 p.m.
908 shore Rd.
Mexiquila
Live Music
5 – 8 p.m.
101 E. Maryland Ave.
The Point the Verdict. 6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Continued on 72
The Turtle Heads play at Caroline’s by the Bay. Photo credit: The Turtle Heads Facebook page
Sweetwater
Sweetwater Marina
Dirty Jersey. 2 – 6 p.m.
2780 7th Ave.
Monday, August 5
Atlantic City
LandShark Bar & Grille
smokey starr. 5 – 9 p.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
tommy & the Hot Flashes
7 – 11 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Steel Pier
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.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
No standards
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
Chris Lax
6 – 10 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Somers Point
Crab Trap
thom Piecara
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Lew London Duo
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
The Point
Mike tobin
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Tuesday, August 6
Atlantic City
LandShark Bar & Grille
sara & tom
5 – 9 p.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Patty & Bugzy
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
DJ Johnny Looch
6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock suit and Mai tai
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Somers Point
Crab Trap
g reg Clark
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Al Olivero
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Josie Kelly’s
DJ special K
5 – 9 p.m.
908 shore Rd.
The Point
Brian Kmetz
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Wednesday, August 7
Atlantic City
LandShark Bar & Grille
Brian & Mindy
5 – 9 p.m.
1133 Boardwalk
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
the Lenahan Band
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean 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
Bob & Nick
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s steve Mullary. 6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Josie Kelly’s the tommy Allen Band
7 – 10:30 p.m.
908 shore Rd.
The Point
JD Valenteen. 6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay Ave.
Sweetwater
Sweetwater Marina
Mike Lally. 6 – 9 p.m.
2780 7th Ave.
Events subject to change.
The wines of Bordeaux, France
Drink Up!
By David Setley
Ispent the past two articles recounting my recent travels in the Champagne and Loire Valley regions of France. this week, allow me to conclude my travel log with the Bordeaux wine region. Arguably among the most renowned wine regions in the world, Bordeaux is home to many of the most famous grape varietals. the city of Bordeaux, for which the wine region is named, is located on the garonne River. We enjoyed several days in and around Bordeaux during the river cruise portion of our vacation and, as you can imagine, absolutely loved it.
Winemaking in Bordeaux began in the first century B.C. under the rule of the Roman Empire. the soil and climate of the area were perfect for cultivating vines, and the river provided a convenient channel for transporting the finished wine. After the fall of the Roman Empire, wine exports unfortunately dried up until the 12th century. It was around then that Elinore of Aquitaine, who was the queen of France and formerly the wife to King Louis VII, married Henry II of England, thus becoming the queen of England. Aquitaine, an area that included what is now known as
France’s Bordeaux region, fell under the rule of the English. Henry II and Elinor had a son – Richard I, aka, Richard the Lionhearted – who moved his base of operations near Bordeaux when he came into power. It can be quite confusing to track European history, especially when modern-day countries fell under the rule of other monarchies for a time. suffice it to say that the 12th century began the first golden age of the Bordeaux wine industry, with England being the principal recipient of the region’s exported wine.
In the 13th century, the appellations of g raves, Entre-Deux-Mers, saint-Émilion, and Blaye came into prominence for their distinctive wines. However, Bordeaux’s wine industry again came to a halt due to the Hundred Years War (ironically fought between 1337 and 1453) between England and France. It was revived once more when Dutch traders became interested in the wine trade in the 17th century and drained the marshlands in what is now known as the Medoc to plant vines. that revival prompted a second golden age for Bordeaux wines that is still in effect today. Historically, more than 70% of wines from the Bordeaux region were not bottled at the vineyards. Instead, negociants, a French term for wine merchant, had near-full control of the wine market. Winemakers would float their wine to buildings owned by negociants near the port of Bordeaux. those negociants would then blend, bottle, and label the wine with their name on it rather than the name of
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Scratch Recipe Buns
Scones & Blueberry-Lemon Scones
Cake & Lemon Bars Brownies & Apple Cider Donuts
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the vineyard or winemaker. unfortunately, negociants did not always act in the best interest of the vineyard owners and were often accused of having shady operations. Nonetheless, those merchants are largely responsible for raising the notoriety of Bordeaux wines throughout the world.
t he terroir of Bordeaux yields five well-known red grapes: Merlot, Cabernet sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. g enerally speaking, each of the 53 wine appellations of the region is dominated by one of the five grapes, with one or more of the other four grown in smaller amounts. the appellations are bisected by the garonne and Dordogne Rivers, creating what the wine world often refers to as the Left Bank and the Right Bank of Bordeaux. As you can imagine, the terroir of each bank is quite different. the soil on the right is more clay-based and fertile, whereas the left is gravel-based and relatively devoid of nutrients. Cabernet s auvignon thrives in the nutrient-poor gravelly soil of the Left Bank, while Merlot craves the nutrient-rich clay of the Right Bank. so… you guessed it! If you are looking at a Cabernet sauvignon from Bordeaux, you are looking at a Left Bank wine. If someone asks for your thoughts on wine from the Right Bank, you know
they’re likely talking about a Merlot.
You may be familiar with the Cru classification system for Bordeaux wines. “Cru” means growth in French wine terminology; the Cru classification is the commonly known system for the Medoc Classification system established by Napoleon III in 1855 for the wines of Bordeaux. t he Cru classification is only for red wines from Bordeaux and established a ranking from First Cru to Fifth Cru, based on the significance of each winery. though the system has been criticized since its creation, accused of being based on price rather than quality and stubbornly resistant to change, it is still used today. t he highest-ranking wines are known as the Premiere g rand Cru Classe’ A (5 wineries), followed by Classe’ B (14 wineries). g rand Cru third g rowth (14 wineries) is next, followed by Fourth g rowth (10 wineries) and Fifth growth (18 wineries).
A Chateau Lafite Rothschild Premiere g rand Cru Classe’ Bordeaux red can cost in excess of $1,000. that is way above the price point of my typical recommendations! You certainly do
not have to spend that much to enjoy a fabulous Bordeaux. saint-Émilion is one of the most coveted wine appellations on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. t he Chateau Haut-segottes saint- Émilion g rand Cru Bordeaux wine is a fantastic, and affordable, wine. It is a blended red wine made mostly of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, with a touch of Cabernet sauvignon. It is beautifully balanced and dry with fruity notes of dark cherries and earthy notes of tobacco leaf, peppercorn, and soil.
Compare that to the Chateau Barreyres-La g riffe de Barreyres Haut-Medoc 2018. the Haut-Medoc is a premiere appellation of the Left
Bank, where Cabernet sauvignon takes center stage with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot providing supportive roles. t he red fruit flavors of this wine are less dominant, with the earthiness of cedar, graphite, and baking spices taking the lead. Pour a glass of each for a comparison between the two Banks. You’re sure to notice the difference in color and taste that comes from each subregion’s spectacular terroir. I hope you enjoyed learning about the history and terroir of Bordeaux this week. Writing these last few articles has been a wonderful way for me to relive my trip, while bringing some of it back to New Jersey for you. As always, contact me with any questions at dsetley@passionvines. com, or stop into the store to talk wine. until next time, 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.
A guide to Atlantic City eats
tlantic City is home to a wide variety of diverse restaurants in and out of the casinos, from the best sub sandwiches, historically renowned seafood establishments, unique Afghan-French fusion and everything in between. Visitors should come hungry for their next trip to Atlantic City because the destination has so many delicious eats to choose from. Here’s a taste of what awaits:
Historical must-visits
● Dock’s Oyster House: since opening its doors in 1897, Dock’s has been a cornerstone of Atlantic City’s dining scene. t his family-owned fine-dining seafood institution offers a menu steeped in history, featuring classics like lobster tail, fried oysters, and crabmeat au gratin. Known for its extensive oyster selection and hearty seafood platters, Dock’s remains a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
● White House Subs: Established in 1946, this iconic spot is known for its massive 2-foot-long subs, including favorites such as the Italian sub, cheesesteaks and their own creation, the White House
special loaded with Italian cold cuts and provolone. Frequented by legends like Elvis and Frank sinatra, it continues to draw crowds with its hearty and fresh offerings.
Hidden gems / local favorites
● Setaara : Located in the heart of Atlantic City, s etaara offers a fusion of Afghan and French cuisine in an ambiance inspired by the historic silk Road. Co-owned by Abdullah Panah and Executive Chef Homa Bazyar, the restaurant boasts a menu that blends traditional Afghan spices with French culinary techniques. s ignature dishes like uzbeki Palau and spiced
kebabs transport diners on a culinary journey through diverse flavors and cultures.
● Kelsey & Kim's Southern Cafe: Known for its soulful cuisine and live music, Kelsey & Kim’s is a haven for guests looking for delicious comfort food, warm hospitality, served alongside lively performances by local jazz bands and soul singers. From southern fried chicken and waffles to slowsmoked ribs, every dish is crafted with care.
Italian comfort food and refreshing Italian twists:
● Cafe 2825: Famous for their captivating tableside presentations, including a Old World Caesar salad, Cacio e Pepe pasta blowtorched within a 70-pound Pecorino Romano wheel and house-
● Capriccio’s: Capriccio’s brings oldschool Italian elegance to Atlantic City’s famous Boardwalk. Located in Resorts Casino Hotel, with sweeping views of the Atlantic, the chefs at this renowned fine-dining restaurant prepare each dish with passion and tradition, using only
made warm burrata style fresh mozzarella created from the curd tableside. Established in 1986, this gem delights foodies with, signature dishes like twin Lobster tails Parmigiana Fra DiAvolo, Hot Honey Crispy Fried Calamari and shrimp and daily crafted decadent desserts.
the highest quality ingredients. guests can savor authentic plates of s eafood Zuppetta and Veal Romero, just as legends like Frank sinatra did when he dined here.
● Chef Vola’s : tucked away in a private home, Chef Vola’s offers a unique dining experience with those lucky enough to secure a table are treated to classic Italian dishes like linguini with clams and veal parmigiana. the intimate setting and traditional recipes make Chef Vola’s a hidden gem cherished by locals and visitors seeking authentic Italian flavors, guests cannot skip trying the effortlessly light Ricotta Cheesecake.
Credit: Visit Atlantic City.
Setarra
Capriccio’s
Dock’s Oyster House
White House Subs
Atlantic City: A two-Broadway flop
By Bruce Klauber
Although Atlantic City has been immortalized in movies, song and on television, efforts to bring the essence of the queen of resorts to the Broadway stage have been less than successful.
In fact, enterprising producers have only attempted to bring the Atlantic City story to the legitimate stage twice in history: once in 1898, and the other in 1997.
Not much is known about the first production titled, “In Atlantic City.”
Billed as “a musical in three acts,” the production was staged at the star theatre on Broadway and ran for only nine performances from Aug. 13 to Aug. 20, 1898. the credits of producer stewart Lithgow and musical director Louis Jacobson have faded into obscurity. s cenic designer Walter Burridge has a small part of stage history as the designer for a number of lesser Broadway productions dating from 1887 until 1912.
As for the star theatre on 844 Broadway, it opened in 1861, seated 1,448, and was demolished in 1901.
In 1996, almost 100 years later, several Broadway veterans came together to bring a musical with an Atlantic City focus to the stage once again. It was called “ steel Pier,” and with composers John Kander and Fred Ebb aboard, to say nothing of writer David thompson of “Chicago” fame, acclaimed director scott Ellis, and award-winning choreographer susan stroman, the consensus was that the show would be an instant and long-running hit.
According to theater historian and author Mark Robinson, “ the composing team of Kander and Ebb were often attracted to properties that allowed them to tell a show-withina-show story, often using the show or entertainment style within to provide commentary on the show the theater audience is watching.”
As examples, Robinson noted that Kander and Ebb’s “Cabaret” was about a cabaret, “Chicago” focused on vaudeville, and “Kiss of the spider Woman” was basically about film. “It shouldn’t have been a surprise,” added Robinson, “that the team found a
way to utilize the dance marathons in Atlantic City of the 1930s to similar effect in the short-lived musical ‘ steel Pier.’”
the buzz on the great White Way was strong. “ g oing into the 19961997 Broadway season,” Robinson noted, “‘ steel Pier’ was an eagerly anticipated property for Broadway. But then any Kander and Ebb musical was something to get excited for. the duo had come off a critical success with ‘Kiss of the s pider Woman,’ which won the 1993 tony Award for Best Musical. surely their next outing would be just as uniquely brilliant.”
Choreographer susan stroman had rarely been so excited about a project. “Working with Kander and Ebb, scott Ellis, and David thompson early in my career was a gift,” stroman wrote not long after the show closed. “All of these collaborators loved dance, and ‘ steel Pier’ was full of dance from beginning to end. “ the story took place in 1933 on the steel Pier in Atlantic City when ballroom dancing was at its most popular. Creating a story about a dance marathon during the g reat
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Depression and the steel Pier made great material for a new musical.
“ t he steel Pier in Atlantic City was called the ‘ s howplace of the Nation.’ It featured concerts, rides, sideshows, flagpole sitters, the diving bell, a water show, and the famous High Diving Horse. t he sounds of rides and roaring waves are still fresh in my memory. I remember summer days sitting with my parents on the end of the pier, eating hot dogs and throwing ice cubes at the jellyfish in the water below. Near the end of the steel Pier sat the Marine Ballroom, a beautiful Art Deco building that could hold 5,000 people and played home to countless orchestras, headliners, dancers and dance contests. t he Marine Ballroom was where we placed our dance marathon.
“Dance marathons were popular events during the great Depression; 1933 was the worst year of the depression, with one out of four Americans unemployed. People would sign up for these marathons hoping to win big money. As the couples danced, crowds in the stands would throw coins at their favorites. Promoters would seek out entertainers with special skills to spice up the show and sell more tickets. Dance marathons were both genuine endurance contests and staged performance events. some of the contestants would go on to dance their way to fame.
heard from. there was a cast album, but it yielded no hit songs, and there are no plans to revive the project. It’s easy to sit back and detail all that went wrong with " steel Pier," especially 27 years after the fact. Having had a soft spot for the steel Pier for most of my life, and having written about it since my first newspaper article was published in the early 1970s, I made sure I was in the audience during the show’s brief Broadway run.
I was entertained, but not thrilled about what I saw. It was, by and large, about dance marathons, and I felt shortchanged. Despite choreographer susan stroman’s enthusiasm about what the steel Pier was and her youthful experiences there, the
“Marathons introduced new songs, new dance styles, and the soap opera-like intensity of an audience rooting for its favorite couple. the flirtations, the intrigue, the passion, and the endurance all made for captivating characters who danced with the hope of surviving the massive economic strain. these people were dancing for their lives.”
" steel Pier" opened at the Richard Rodgers theatre on Broadway on April 24, 1997. the trade paper Variety loved it, but had some reservations about the plot. the New York times panned it, with a headline that read: “Party’s over, chum, just keep dancing.” Other reviewers praised the songs and the acting, but mentioned a general lack of energy and a meandering book.
the show closed on June 28, 1997, after just 76 performances. still, it was nominated for 11 tony Awards including “Best Musical,” and nine Drama Desk Awards. In that year, " titanic" walked away with most of the awards.
" steel Pier" was revived on a limited basis in London at the union theater. It ran from Oct. 31 to Nov. 24, 2012, and that’s the last it was
show simply didn’t capture the captivating, freewheeling and sometimes electrifying excitement of the steel Pier, or Atlantic City, for that matter. Perhaps no stage show really could.
I’ll take the real thing anytime.
High Notes: t he s outh Jersey Jazz society has checked in to begin spreading the word early about two, special events coming early this fall that are certain to be sellouts. On s ept. 25, bassist Andy Lalasis, profiled in these pages recently, will receive the coveted g eorge Mesterhazy Jazz Master Award at a gala dinner to be held at the greate Bay Country Club. And the gateway Playhouse and g regory’s restaurant in somers Point will host a unique and eagerly-anticipated jazz series on thursday through saturday, Oct. 10, 11 and 12. “Basses Loaded” will feature five of the finest bassists in the world of jazz, including rising star Ciara Moser, Brian Bromberg, John Patitucci, Andy Lalasis and Philadelphian Mike Boone, with his swinging son, Mekhi, on drums. tickets and details for all events are available at southjerseyjazz.org.
Hearts and Harleys ride for a cause Chopper bike built in tribute
By Sean Fawcett
Bikers have real big hearts. Case in point: this past s aturday's Annual Hearts and Harleys 2024 Poker Run. the ride, beginning at Nancy's Country Kitchen on the White Horse Pike and ending at the Watering Hole in Weymouth, raised $3,500 with a specially built chopper called "Captain Cow" highlighting the event.
tuckerton garage owner Jon Miller of Jon Miller Car Care, airbrush artist Jeffrey Martinez and paint and body specialist Anthony Moresco of tonyMexx Custom Painting, along with Hearts and Harleys President John Pabst, constructed the Captain Cow Chopper to raise awareness and funds to combat domestic violence.
Captain Cow is a tribute to Pabst's son, gavin, and wife Michelle, who were murdered in a heinous act of domestic violence some ten years ago. Captain Cow comes from gavin's favorite superhero, Captain America, and for Michelle, who was nicknamed "Moo Moo."
Pabst and Miller– who had a shared friend in tony Lafera, a
trained nurse who died treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic– got together to build a bike to honor gavin, Michelle and tony.
tony was Miller's best friend since the fourth grade and a colleague of Pabst's at Hearts and Harleys.
Miller, who's rebuilt the “Back to the Future” DeLorean time machine to promote the Broadway musical adaptation of the movie, found a perfect bike to rebuild with Pabst, Martinez and Moresco, bringing Captain Cow to life and raising spirits and awareness and to honor the memories of the friend and family they had lost. Miller summed up his part of building the bike. "Because I can and tony
can't," said Miller. " t his was tony's vision. For a long time, tony told me there was a great man (John Pabst) I needed to meet. He said we represented a lot of the same things.
"Everything tony tried to do he failed at except saving lives. He was a real hero and the one thing he was really passionate about was Hearts and Harleys."
saturday's Poker Run was a monumental success with 150 riders registered and 185 participants overall, including volunteers.
" the day was a total success," said Miller. "Building Captain Cow was a lot of fun. It came out beautifully." to learn more about Hearts and Harleys and/or donate, please contact John Pabst at john.pabst@ heartsandharleys.org today.
Empowering Women
By Rachel Guevara
When it comes to fitness, most of us focus on the workouts, the sweat sessions and the healthy meals. But there's a secret ingredient that's just as important: recovery and rest. It's the magic that helps your body rebuild, refuel, and come back stronger. Let's dive into why recovery and rest are crucial and how you can make the most of them.
Why Recovery and Rest Matter
1. Muscle Repair and Growth:
Every time you exercise, especially during strength training, you create tiny tears in your muscle fibers. this might sound scary, but it's actually a good thing! Your body repairs these tears, and in the process, your muscles
grow stronger and bigger. However, this repair process happens when you're resting, not when you're working out. Without adequate rest, your muscles won't have the time they need to recover and grow.
2. Preventing Injury:
Overworking your body without enough rest can lead to injuries. think of your body like a machine – if you keep pushing it without maintenance, something will eventually break. Regular rest helps prevent overuse injuries and keeps your body in top shape.
3. Boosting Performance:
Have you ever noticed how you can run faster, lift heavier, or perform better after a good night's sleep? that's because rest restores your energy levels and helps your nervous system recover. When you're well-rested, you're able to give your best performance in your next workout.
4. Mental Health:
Exercise is fantastic for your mental well-being, but rest is equally important. taking time to relax reduces stress, improves your mood, and helps you stay motivated. It's a win-win for both your body and mind.
Tips for Effective Recovery and Rest
1. Get Enough Sleep:
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. sleep is when your body does most of its repair work. to improve your sleep, create a bedtime routine, keep your bedroom cool and dark, and avoid screens before bedtime.
2. Take Rest Days:
Incorporate rest days into your workout routine. this doesn't mean you have to be completely inactive –light activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can be great for recovery. Listen to your body and take a full day off if you feel you need it.
3. Stay Hydrated:
Water is essential for every bodily function, including recovery. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially after workouts. staying hydrated helps flush out toxins and reduces muscle soreness.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet: Your body needs fuel to repair and rebuild muscles. Focus on a diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Foods like salmon, nuts, berries, and leafy greens
are packed with nutrients that aid recovery.
5. Try Active Recovery:
Active recovery involves low-intensity exercises that promote blood flow without putting stress on your muscles. Activities like gentle yoga, swimming, or a leisurely bike ride can help you recover faster.
6. Use Recovery Tools:
Foam rollers, massage balls, and stretching bands are great tools for aiding recovery. they help release muscle tension and improve flexibility. Consider treating yourself to a professional massage now and then for an extra boost.
7. Listen to Your Body:
Pay attention to how your body feels. If you're tired, sore, or feeling unmotivated, it might be a sign that you need more rest. Pushing through pain or fatigue can lead to burnout and injuries.
Make Recovery Fun
Recovery doesn't have to be boring! Here are some fun ways to make the most of your rest days:
spa Day: treat yourself to a spa day at home. take a long bath with Epsom salts, use a face mask, and relax with a good book.
- Movie Marathon: Curl up on the couch with your favorite movies or t V shows. It's a perfect way to relax and unwind.
- Nature Walk: spend time in nature. A gentle walk in the park or by the beach can be incredibly rejuvenating.
- Cooking: try out new healthy recipes. Cooking can be a fun and relaxing way to refuel your body with nutritious foods.
Remember, rest and recovery are just as important as your workouts. Embrace them, and you'll see better results, feel happier, and stay injury-free. s o next time you plan your fitness routine, don't forget to pencil in those precious rest days. Your body will thank you!
Rachel Guevara is the owner of Lift & Glitz Training Studio in Northfield, NJ. With 13 years of experience in the fitness industry, Rachel holds certifications in Personal & Group Fitness through ISSA and is a Zumba Fitness Instructor. A proud single mother of two, Rachel balances her professional and personal life with grace and determination. She earned her BA in Communications from Stockton University and resides in Northfield.
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Horoscopes for the week of August 1 – 7
♈ Aries: the source of your inner spark is highlighted this week, and for the entire month. Fuel it with intention, and reconsider what empties your tank rather than what tops it off. It’s a good time to begin a new creative project.
♉ taurus: What makes you feel at home physically and energetically are prominent themes this week, and for the entire month ahead. Review these themes carefully. Consider if moving or revamping your home could hold the potential for a better environment.
♊ g emini: Better ways to speak from your heart are on the horizon. Devote some thought this week and month to how you can communicate more effectively. starting a new, short course of study or practice could help you.
♋ Cancer: g o with the flow and feel through the relationship you have
with your resources and belongings. this week’s new moon could be an opportunity to call in new energy, particularly around the connection between your resources and sense of self-worth.
♌ Leo: Last week’s message carries forward into this week and all of August for you. shining your light like the sun, enhancing the vitality of your vessel and glowing every day with your bold, creative spirit should be daily intentions.
♍ Virgo: What is your relationship to your subconscious? How can intentionally focusing on cultivating this relationship broaden your perspective? that is your task for August, utilizing whatever practice or resource feels most in alignment.
♎ Libra: Your connection to your tribe and how that contributes to your future are areas for rebalance this week and this month overall. Redirection and creating something new for yourself, perhaps even in a position of leadership, should be thoughtfully considered.
♏ s corpio: An inner stirring has been sparked. the stage is your job or career. the idea of a much-needed change in this space may begin to take hold of you more strongly. trust it and
explore your options with the intention of honoring what your heart wants most.
♐ sagittarius: If an itch to travel or learn something new has been building, there’s a reason for it! set your intentions for a new adventure, and start making your plans this month. Whatever makes your heart sing the most is a good choice.
♑ Capricorn: It’s time for a deeper climb into the parts of yourself you may not usually show others. Periods of self-discovery and inner work are necessary for growth on the outer journey. take some time for yourself this month in stillness so you can receive the messages from your heart.
♒ Aquarius: the current is flowing in a more social direction to spark a new relationship. Be open all month long to meeting new people who may become a partner, a close friend or simply teach you something new about yourself. A review of existing relationships may also surface.
♓ Pisces: A new beginning in the way you infuse creativity into your daily life is incoming. Focus on the creation of whatever you want to call in, especially if it makes you feel wonderful and whole in body, mind and spirit.
Weekly summary:
We begin a new month this week with the potential energy of the new moon in Leo as well (sunday, Aug. 4 at 7:13 a.m.). this new moon is infused with extra focus on a heart-centered approach to what we desire to create in our lives that will complement personal and collective growth. the second Mercury retrograde of this year also begins this week on the fifth (Aug. 5 – 28), which gifts us the opportunity to welcome new ideas and practical, creative ways to move forward with the new moon’s potential. Mercury retrogrades have a bad reputation since they usually disturb our daily lives by interrupting communication, travel, technology and finances. I love Mercury retrogrades for the subtle gifts in the interruptions, the power of the pause and the opportunities to discover new ways to think about or do whatever is coming up for review. they’re the best times to work with the magic of the messenger planet! 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.
The 27th Annual Antiques, Arts & Crafts Show will feature an array of antiques, artwork and handmade items from local artists and artisans. Local vendors will also be selling food and refreshments. Come out and enjoy the day with us.
The Cosmic Connection with Ursula Duffy
Meeting a new financial advisor
By Eric Reich
One of the reasons many people don’t seek out professional help from financial advisors is that they feel intimidated by the process or simply by the unknown. Fear of the unknown is pretty much a universal fear. this week, I wanted to discuss what the process typically looks like and share some ideas on how to make the most of your first meeting.
1. Consider first impressions.
t his is a standard we measure most things by, isn’t it? How does the office look? How are the people? Are you greeted by friendly staff, or are you intimidated as soon as you walk in the door? Does everyone seem relaxed or uptight? First impressions can set the tone for the relationship, so make sure you feel comfortable on your first visit.
2. Bring a list of all the topics you want advice on, even if you think it might not be relevant to the conversation.
typically, if an advisor doesn’t directly handle a particular issue, they likely know who can help and point you in that direction. If you don’t totally know what you need help with, take time to think about it. What is most important to you in order to make you feel like the meeting was a success? Is it budgeting, college planning, retirement planning, investment allocations, debt, relocation planning, taxes, real estate, charitable giving?
3. Bring a notepad, pen, etc., and write down as much as you can.
If you forget one, don't worry! We all have hundreds of them lying around for you to use, so just ask. I would suggest you ask for a recap of the conversation via email so that you can easily remember each topic discussed, as it can get a little overwhelming trying to remember everything that was discussed, especially when you might be nervous.
4. Bring all of your documents. this includes investment statements, social security statements, bank statements, insurance policies (life/disability/long term care), most
recent tax returns, financial statements if you have any, a copy of your budget if you have one, and your estate planning documents including wills, trusts, power of attorney, advanced directive or POL st, etc.
5. Discuss any changes in life events.
this includes a change in marital status, recent health changes, and family situation, including if you are financially responsible for adult children or your parents.
6. Think about the future before your meeting.
If you are getting ready to retire, spend some time thinking about what your ideal retirement looks like. Where do you live? What does a typical day look like? If you are there for estate planning, what are your wishes for when you’re gone? Not just who gets what, but how do you want them to use the money? Is there a family member you are particularly worried about when it comes to money?
If the first meeting feels right, then schedule a follow-up. If it doesn’t and isn’t a good fit, then keep looking until you feel comfortable. I hope this helps you along your journey.
securities offered through Kestra Investment services, LLC (Kestra Is),
member FINRA/sIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory services, LLC (Kestra A s), an affiliate of Kestra I s . Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra Is or Kestra A s 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 s ervices, LLC. t his 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.
AN EXTRA TREAT FOR FREE!
Four summer recipes to refresh your palate and make you smile
By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer
July has come and gone, and we continue to relish in the warm summer sun. Between beach trips, stop by your town’s farmers market and pick up some fresh, in-season produce. Maybe you are having friends over for barbecues or stopping by your cousin’s pool with the kids. summer is a great season for foodies because everything tastes extra yummy with sand between your toes and sun on your skin. Here are four recipes that’ll wow your crowds and power up your appetite:
Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
● 6 English cucumbers
● ½ cup of rice vinegar
● 1 cup of roasted peanuts
● 2 teaspoons of sesame oil
● 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
● 1 teaspoon of fish sauce
● 1 teaspoon of sugar
● sesame seeds (for garnish) thinly slice the cucumbers (after washing them) using a sharp knife or mandolin. transfer into a bowl.
Chop the peanuts finely and roast in the oven on a sheet pan with a touch of olive oil at 350 degrees for five minutes. Let cool briefly. Add soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and rice vinegar. Combine
with peanuts and cucumber slices and toss lightly.
top with sesame seeds and serve with stir fry or teriyaki burgers.
Summer Veggie Pizza
Ingredients:
● 8 ounces of store-bought pizza dough
● 3 garlic cloves, crushed
● 6 ounces of asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
● 1 pound of summer squash
● 2 lemons, freshly squeezed
● 10 oil-packed anchovies, diced
● 1/3 cup of fresh basil
● 2 cups of ricotta cheese
● 1/3 cup of olive oil
● 3 shallots, thinly sliced
● 1 teaspoon of turmeric
● 2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes
● 2 teaspoons of salt
● shaved Parmesan Let dough rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. Coat a cast-iron skillet in 1/8 cup of olive oil and stretch the dough to reach all
sides of the pan.
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and anchovies. In a small bowl, combine salt and spices.
s pread cheese mixture evenly across the dough. Add asparagus, squash, basil, and shallots. sprinkle spices on top and drizzle with oil.
Bake at 450 degrees for 20 minutes. Once it’s fully cooked, top with shaved Parmesan. Enjoy!
Modern Baked Beans
Ingredients
● 3 cans of pinto beans
● 1/2 pound of bacon
● 1 cup of cola soda
● 1/2 cup of brown sugar
● 1 cup of ketchup
● 1 onion, diced
● 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
● 2 tablespoons of dijon mustard
● 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
● 1/2 cup of adobe chipotle
● salt to taste s aute bacon over medium heat until crispy, 7 minutes.
Remove bacon from heat and cook down diced onion in bacon fat until jammy, 10 minutes.
Pour beans into a large pan and preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Add the rest of the ingredients, including bacon and onion. Mix thoroughly.
Bake for 35 minutes uncovered until fragrant and bubbly. serve warm!
No-Churn Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Ingredients:
● 3 cups of heavy whipping cream
● 30 Oreo cookies
● 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
● 1 cup of whole milk
● 1 cup of sugar
● 1 teaspoon of salt
Place cookies in a plastic Ziploc bag. Crush cookies into bits using a rolling bin. set aside.
In a large bowl, combine cream, milk, vanilla, salt, and sugar. Whisk together and pour into freezer-safe containers. Add crushed cookies and mix evenly into the cream base. Freeze for at least 24 hours until hard. scoop into bowls and enjoy as a delicious dessert!
“BEYOND
ELENA BOND BETTE RIDGEWAY PRESENTS TWO ARTISTS AUGUST 2 & 3 2024
is a celebration of two prominent contemporary female painters that employ their entire physical, spiritual and intellectual talents to create bold and arousing art that inspires their collectors by breaking the rules of traditionally made artworks and tapping into their deeper and more heartfelt vision.
Elena Bond has updated the Impressionist movement to our present time, bringing the Impressionists’ spirit into the twenty-first century in a grand way with a major force of impact. Bond is a key artist in modern impressionism, pushing the boundaries of the movement... Her art is bold, exciting, and powerful, yet maintaining a perfect equilibrium contrasting with a calm serenity.
Celebrated for her large-scale, luminous poured canvases, Bette Ridgeway has devoted five decades to developing her unusual pouring technique, garnering international recognition in the process. Ridgeway’s recent awards include the 2024 Leonardo daVinci International Prize, the 2024 Sandro Botticelli International Prize, the 2023 Michelangelo International Prize, the Caravaggio International Prize 2022, the list goes on.
RECEPTIONS WITH THE ARTISTS
FRIDAY AUGUST 2
6pm to 9pm and SATURDAY AUGUST 3 6pm to 9pm
RSVP via our website: www.oceangalleries.com
www.oceangalleries.com
The Alchemy of Thought, Bette Ridgeway 52” x 78” acrylic on canvas
(Image at top: Hold Tight I, Elena Bond 36” x 36” oil on canvas)
What’s below the surface: 10 creatures you’ll find in New Jersey waters
By Sarah Fertsch
Do you ever think about what’s on the ocean floor of the Jersey shore? It’s probably the last thing you want to think about, especially when you’re boogie boarding with your kids on a hot summer day. Despite any creepy-crawly fears, learning about our friends under the sea will make you more conscious of your environment and island habitat! Here’s what you’ll find below the surface on your local NJ beach:
Harbor Seal
t hese puppy-like creatures are all around the beaches, especially in the springtime. According to the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, the Jersey shore is the largest “haul-out” site for harbor seals, meaning that seals travel across the east coast for mating and feeding. seals are mammals, so they need to come up for air often, so they can be found in shallow waters, even in the summers. Adults can be about six feet long, weighing almost 300 pounds. Even though they are very cute, these creatures can be dangerous, so make sure to keep your distance if you spot a seal nearby.
Atlantic Octopus
Although rare in colder waters, you might catch an Atlantic Octopus on the bay off Atlantic City. Octopuses hunt at dusk, searching for mollusks, crabs, and lobsters. It paralyzes its prey by secreting poison through its tentacles and then uses its suckers to wiggle its meal out of its shell. these animals are incredibly smart,
smart enough to catch a crab out of a trap or unscrew a jar. Although octopuses are colorblind, they have special receptors that allow them to blend into their environment, like a chameleon. You’ll typically find an octopus around coral or rocks, so be careful when exploring the seafloor!
Humpback Whale
Humpback whales are common in almost every ocean, but populate Jersey waters when the bay is cold, particularly in the spring, winter, and fall. t hey search for food, eating up to 300 pounds of krill and small crustaceans per day! they reach up to 60 feet in length, with females being larger than males. Humpback whales have the largest fin of any other whale species. this species is on both the federal and state endangered species list, so be careful about maintaining your fishing nets so whales don’t get caught. For a fantastic look at whales, check out whale-watching cruises in Atlantic and Cape May counties!
Lined Seahorse
s ometimes called the Northern seahorse, these creatures can be found between rocks and coral across the Atlantic Ocean, from Nova scotia to Panama. they span in color, ranging from yellow to black. they feed on tiny crustaceans and use their beak to suck their prey out of their shell. u niquely these animals breed monogamously, for life, and the males get pregnant and have babies!
Horseshoe Crabs
these bizarre-looking creatures are a blast from the past – one of the last remaining creatures from the Paleozoic Era (445 million years ago). their blood contains a special clotting agent, limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL), that assists humans with infection detection and with tolerating prosthetic devices such as knee replacements and heart valves. these crabs are common on the Jersey shore and around the Delaware Bay. they are most common between
May and August, so keep your eyes peeled at the beach!
Cownose Ray
this stingray is common around the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic shorelines. they have a wingspan of three feet and can weigh up to 50 pounds. their diet consists of various types of clams, which draw the rays close to the beach. Mating takes place between June and July, and after an 11-month gestation period, females raise a single pup for the rest of the summer. Although they appear as if they are skates or stingrays, cownose rays fall into a category of their own. Jersey shore, cownose rays are often mistaken for shark sightings!
Moon Jellyfish
You’ve definitely seen these along the beach. these rounded discs come to mate on the Atlantic coast and can be identified by their translucent color and clover design in the center. Moon jellies can be found close to the ocean’s surface because they primarily feed on plankton, which grow in the sunlight. that means it’s often eaten by sea birds, though. Its sting is relatively benign to humans (if you are stung, you may feel a mild stinging sensation that should disappear quickly).
Sand Tiger Shark
somewhat scary to think about, this NJ shark grows up to 10 feet long and up to 300 pounds. It’s sometimes referred to as the “ragged-tooth shark” because its toothy grin makes it stand out compared to other shark species. these sharks prefer warm water, so they are most common along the Jersey shore in the summer. they migrate to shallower waters in the summer as well, searching for small fish to feed on. there’s some evidence to indicate that the Delaware Bay area is a primary mating ground for these sharks, according to the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ. sand tiger sharks are critical -
ly endangered in some parts of the Atlantic Ocean and are considered a species of Concern for NJ.
Loggerhead Sea
Turtle
s ea turtles populate all areas of the Atlantic Ocean, but migrate to the Jersey s hore during the summer to lay eggs on the beach. t hese turtles can be identified by their reddish-brown color and large head. they primarily eat jellyfish and crustaceans. Loggerhead turtles are currently threatened by beach development and ocean pollution, so be sure to care for turtles if you spot a mother or eggs on the beach near you.
Hermit Crabs
Hermit crabs are not crabs at all! In fact, they are actually a species of shrimp that is protected by a shell. there are two types of hermit crabs –land crabs, which breathe with lungs, and ocean crabs, which breathe with gills. Hermit crabs are so entrenched in their shell that if they were threatened by a bird, their bodies would rip apart easier than a crab would be ripped out of its shell! speaking of hermit crabs, check out Martin Z. Mollusk, the mascot of Ocean City! In conclusion, make sure to always keep the health and safety of yourself and these animals in mind. If you spot a sea animal while you are basking on the beach, keep your distance. If you notice a marine mammal in trouble, contact the Marine Mammal stranding Center at 609-266-3508.
Sarah Fertsch was born and raised in Egg Harbor Township, and holds a dual degree in public relations and political science. Prior to joining Shore Local full-time, she worked at a CSPAN affiliate, writing about Pennsylvania legislation. When she isn’t writing, Sarah enjoys painting, horseback riding, and Crossfit.
Kitchen, Bathroom
Renovations
SEASONS ARE CHANGING IS YOUR SYSTEM READY?
TRUSTED SINCE 1949
BUTTERSCOTCH
ROCKYROAD CARAMEL MINT FUDGE SPRINKLES
MOOSTRACKS BANANA
SHORE FUNNY
Life is like an ice cream: Enjoy it before it melts. Desserts spelled backwards is Stressed. You can’t make everyone happy, you aren’t a tub of ice cream.
The best time for ice cream is always.
No use crying over spilled milk. But I will cry over melted ice cream.
Ice cream is cheaper than therapy.
SUDOKU
ACROSS
1. takes as spoils
6. toothy fish
9. Cookbook abbr.
13. Cavern
14. Opposite of hence
15. Planktonic tunicate
16. Hipbone-related
17. *studio lion at beginning of "the Wizard of Oz"
18. shylock's practice
19. *It made the house pitch and the kitchen slitch
21. *Nikko and others
23. "Wheel of Fortune" request
24. Printer cartridge color
25. Public health org.
28. Judo gym
30. Porter's head gear
35. Bumpkin
37. tap a baseball
39. Velzquez or Rivera
40. share a boundary
41. gardening tool
43. Prelude to a duel
44. Birth-related
46. Affirmative
47. Cannabis plant
48. Drew Barrymore's "Never Been ____"
50. gulf V.I.P.
52. Cook's leaf
53. underwater "nose"
55. Naught
57. *Lion's lack
61. *a.k.a. tin Man
65. Relating to sight
66. greek H
68. upholstery choice
69. Like kale or spinach
70. 100 lbs.
71. the three Musketeers' swords
72. Advil target
73. Like certain dog?
74. People of Denmark
DOWN
1. Not of the cloth
2. Kind of child
3. Relating to ear
4. ____-____-la
5. Basic unit of time
6. *Dorothy's last name
7. grow gray
8. With ample space
9. undertaking
10. *Munchkins' favorite color, in Baum's book
11. Light on one's feet
12. ____ a visit, 3rd person singular
15. What cat did on the window sill?
20. Bragging mother, turned to stone in greek mythology
22. Rowboat propeller
24. Become gelatinous
25. *Baum's middle name
26. Home to Burj Khalifa
27. #40 Across, 3rd person singular
29. *"Over the Rainbow" singer
31. DIRECtV competitor
32. Paparazzi's target
33. Old World lizard
34. *sleep-inducing flower
36. #66 Across, pl.
38. No I in it
42. Endangered odd-toed ungulate
45. Ivy League likely applicant
49. "Can you ____ it?"
51. took part in stonewall events, e.g.
54. Olden day doctor's prescription
56. Parkinson's disease drug
57. type of pop
58. 14 oil-producing countries
59. Wyoming's neighbor
60. Excessively abundant
61. W on a bulb
62. Dignified manner
63. sheltered, nautically
64. Monster's loch
67. *Number of Wizard of Oz Oscar awards
THEME: THE WIZARD OF OZ
SHORE PRO MARKETPLACE
Poetry Corner
Thinking of Mary (Oliver)
By Doug Otto
Like you, I awoke this morning to a celebration of sea and sun. And I sank my feet into the pooling waters at the 59th street beach.
Like you, I gathered up welks, pebbles, reeds, shells. those lost, stray objects thrown in my path examining each for its story.
SonSet
By Doug Otto
Crossing the old shore road heading toward the sound Dusk painted our pathway with soft grey tones
My coaxing battled your initial resistance
Before parental persuasion declared victory
A guilt trip from your 15-year old perspective
Another next-to-last chance to connect from mine to our weather-beaten dockside perch you carried a can of Mountain Dew I clung to my Chardonnay and the hope of securing a 35mm memory
In fading light we unwrapped our simple meal together watching the western sun descend through hues of pink, gold and remnant blue I surveyed two of god’s finest works Once my clock determined your time, my footsteps directed your journey. Now, you run an unmeasured race heading straight toward that far horizon
Washing off Italy
By Marya Parral
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.
Happy Place
By Elizabeth Haffert
In the little back place near the ocean
Where the locals just seem to go through the motion they actually enjoy the wooden ceiling to the floor
And may I tell a little bit more?
Music flows in the air
A juke box in this lair
As fries drop to the ground
You still hear the sound
Of the voices that laugh & the people that play
As they come here each very day
Peachy & keen
Being here is a dream
Doodle mixes aren’t guaranteed to be lowshedding – Meet the Bedlington Terrier
By Heidi Clayton
Don’t believe the hype that doodle or poo mixed breed dogs are hypoallergenic. At some point, people marketing these designer dogs have made the word “hypoallergenic” synonymous with “low-shedding.” Mixing anything with a poodle may or may not result in a low-shedding coat, but it does nothing to reduce the amount of hair they grow nor the amount of dander and saliva. A 2012 study showed that the primary allergy that people allergic to dogs react to is “canis familiaris allergen 1” or the “can-f-1 allergen.” the study revealed that there was no significant difference in the presence of can-f-1 in homes that have hypoallergenic dogs and those that do not. Mixing a g olden Retriever or a Husky with a Poodle doesn’t mean your
dog will inherit the low-shedding hair genes of the Poodle. Mixing breeds is a genetic roll of the dice where coat and temperament are highly unpredictable.
If you are looking for a low-shedding pet, there are several purebred dogs that will have predictable coats from birth, where low shedding is a guarantee. One of my favorite low-shedding breeds is the unique and adorable Bedlington terrier. the Bedlington is known as the graceful terrier in sheep’s clothing with a scimitar-shaped tail. People often confuse them for lambs because of their coats and the unique shape of their heads. their coat is a mix of coarse and soft hair that tends to curl, particularly around their face. Bedlington terriers come in the colors blue (which is a silvery bluish shade), sandy, and liver (which is a shade of dark brown).
Bedlingtons are light-boned athletic dogs that originated in the early 1800s in the Northumberland mining area of England. Miners needed a dog to do the tough job of going down into coal mines to kill rats and vermin. to fit in the tight area of the coal mine, a light-boned and stealthy vermin killer with a long powerful jaw to catch rats was bred. One of
the first documented Bedlingtons was a male named Piper who hunted badgers in the mines until the ripe old age of 14. Eventually, Bedlingtons caught the eye of the wealthy who loved their unique look as well as their lovable and devoted temperaments. the Bedlington became an official breed when the Bedlington terrier Club was formed in England in 1877.
unlike designer dogs that are being overbred, the Bedlington terrier will have generations of solid genetics behind them. Just like with mixed doodle breeds, you will have to brush them at least once a week and get them groomed semi-monthly, but their coat from generation to generation is guaranteed to be low-shedding. What is also consistent is their lovely and solid temperaments. While they are true ratters at heart, they are easily trained. they have mild and gentle temperaments and are never shy or anxious. the Bedlington will also breed true to size. Breeding a Lab to a Poodle could result in a litter of questionable sizes at maturity. Bedlington terriers are never bigger than 17 to 23 pounds. they also have very few health is-
sues. Every Bedlington breeder I know tests their dogs’ hearts and patellas. these breeders also conduct eye tests. they also do the genetic test for copper toxicosis, which is a disorder that causes too much copper in the body, resulting in liver damage.
Remember there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. If you are looking for a low-shedding dog, read up on the Bedlington terrier by visiting https:// www.bedlingtonamerica.com/. they are great little family dogs with a long, rich history behind them.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.
Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https:// fouronthefloordogtraining.net
Wednesday at 12 noon in
The pros and cons of owning a condo
Real Estate Matters
By Elisa Jo Eagan
Is a condo right for you? Here is what you may encounter, both good and bad, when living in a condo community.
Has the idea of buying a condominium crossed your mind? there is a lot to like about condo living, including reduced maintenance obligations and ample amenities. However, living with increased regulations and being close to neighbors may not be suitable for you. Make sure to carefully consider all of the pros and cons of buying a condo and how they fit into your lifestyle.
What is a Condominium?
A condo is a private residence within a larger community. It is like an apartment except you own the unit instead of renting it, and you can renovate or customize your space. there are typically multiple units
Jo Eagan
on each floor, and you may have neighbors above, below, or next to you. there also may be shared areas and amenities, including swimming pools, tennis courts and fitness centers.
The Pros of Buying a Condominium
several benefits appeal to a wide range of homebuyers when it comes to condos. they give empty nesters the freedom to travel without the concerns of home security, and condos allow first-time homebuyers to own property at a lower cost than a single-family home and build equity.
Less Upkeep
A single-family home requires plenty of maintenance to keep it looking great, but a condo has many of these responsibilities covered. Most condos have a homeowners association (HOA) that is responsible for exterior maintenance like mowing the grass and snow removal, along with upkeep of the roof, building exteriors, amenities and shared spaces. this means you will have to spend less time and effort on making the property look great.
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Your
Affordability
A report by the National Association of Realtors found that the average condo price is more than $50,000 cheaper than a single-family home. Additionally, condo insurance is typically much less expensive than homeowners insurance because you are paying for coverage of a smaller space, and you do not need insurance for the outside of your condo.
Amenities
Having facilities like a fitness center and a pool provides luxuries that you may not be able to afford in a stand-alone house. these amenities can be a great way to get to know your neighbors and create lasting friendships. In addition to a pool or clubhouse, many condo communities hold events like game nights and barbecues, which are great opportunities to socialize.
Security
A condo community typically has a level of security you will not find in a single-family home, such as secured entry gates or security guards to watch out for any emergencies. Additionally, having neighbors close by can provide an additional level of security when you are away.
The Cons of Buying a Condominium
While condos will appeal to a handful of people, it isn’t the best option for everyone. Make sure to consider these points before buying a condominium.
HOA Fees
All the perks of having the additional amenities and fewer maintenance responsibilities come at a price in the form of fees. When you buy a condo, you will likely have to pay a monthly HOA fee on top of your mortgage and insurance costs. this money goes toward the upkeep of the community’s shared spaces and
exterior. You may also have to pay an additional fee to use some of the amenities. However, you can sometimes opt out if you will not be using them.
HOA Rules
In addition to the fees, the HOA can have a list of rules you must abide by. these will vary from community to community and may include the number of visitors you may have at one time, the type, size and number of pets that you are allowed to have, or how you can decorate an area like a patio, which can be a little overbearing for some potential homebuyers. Before agreeing to buy a condo, make sure to review the HOA governing documents, master deed, rules and regulations, and consider how any monthly fees or rules will affect your life.
Lack of Privacy
Being in close confines when compared to a neighborhood means you will sacrifice a level of privacy in a condo. sharing walls with neighbors on both sides of your condo, and potentially above or below you, means that you may hear increased noise. Fellow condo owners may be outside or in the hallway late at night or in the early morning. Likewise, your neighbors may not be receptive to you entertaining guests or playing music.
Resale Market
You may have a limited market to appeal to if you plan to resell your condo in the future. For example, a growing family with pets may find the space restrictive and may want a home instead with a private yard. Others may not feel comfortable with the HOA regulations. Before you purchase a condominium, make sure that you consider these factors in your decision.
If you are considering buying a condo to either live in or for an investment property, be sure to consult with a real estate professional about the unit’s potential resale value and what is best for you and your future.
