Sign Language Santa Visits Margate Will Wind Projects be Halted by Trump?
Letter from the editor
As Thanksgiving leftovers get eaten, many of us are shifting gears to decorating for christmas. The holidays have arrived like fireworks: explosive and bright!
calendars are quickly filled with holiday parties, luncheons and special events. Amid the hustle and bustle, we’re also tasked with transforming our homes into christmas village set pieces.
When it comes to christmas, I’m admittedly overzealous. A long-running family joke is that I “decorate the decorations” and my real name is cindy Lou Who. Over the years, my collection has grown substantially. This year, when we brought the boxes down from the attic, our home looked like an Amazon warehouse. However, I’m now reluctantly scaling back, passing some of the family décor on
to our daughters, who are now building their own collections.
As much as I love decorating, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. m y decorating mishaps sometimes resemble scenes from "National Lampoon’s christmas Vacation."
A few years back, when we moved into our current home, I spotted a massive c hristmas-tree-shaped evergreen in the front yard. m y husband, b ob, rolled his eyes, knowing exactly what I was thinking.
We grabbed lights and borrowed the neighbors’ extra-long ladder, determined to transform the tree into a glowing masterpiece. bob was willing to let me take charge of this ambitious christmas challenge. He held the ladder while I climbed to the top.
The tree was taller than I initially thought. I stood on my tippy-toes on the highest rung of the ladder.
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I could feel my toes losing traction on the ladder. The wind threatened my delicate balance. Lights tangled
in the twigs and I bit my lip in frustration.
Our dogs were barking at me from below, warning me to get down before I got hurt. but there were so many lights! And they needed to be distributed perfectly!
After a close call, I made the cowardly (and perhaps wise) decision to descend and keep the tree half-lit. Is there such a thing as a goodenough christmas tree? I guess I answered my own question.
This year, I stare out onto that formidable tree with eyes of determination. can I scale that goliath in 2024? I don’t know.
b ut if my christmas icon clark Griswold has taught me anything, christmas is always worth the hijinks.
Whether you go all out with decorations or keep things simple, may your holidays be filled with peace, love and untangled string lights.
Peace & Love, Cindy
"Behold, the Griswald family Christmas tree!" – National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Renault Winery holiday festival offers a walk in a Vintner Wonderland
By Stephanie Loder
If you want to make some good memories this holiday season, then grab your ice skates and head to Vintner Wonderland at renault Winery in egg Harbor city.
Nestled in the heart of the South Jersey Pine barrens, the free holiday festival – which opened Nov. 29 and continues until Jan. 20 – celebrates a successful harvest in the renault Winery vineyard.
“Vintner Wonderland is a cherished event because it offers something special for everyone in the family, making it a perfect holiday outing. It combines the magic of the season with activities that cater to all ages,” said spokeswoman Alexis m orello.
The festival provides families or
groups with a chance to savor the season with ice skating, culinary and wine events, local music, and live entertainment. There are special events and overnight stays at the hotel.
children can enjoy festive attractions, while parents can relax with a glass of wine or a gourmet treat, m orello said.
“The free admission also makes it accessible to everyone, with the option to enhance the experience through a variety of ticketed activities. It's a family-friendly, budget-conscious celebration with a luxurious, festive touch,” m orello said.
There is ice skating from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
A christmas Tree Lighting will take place on Dec. 6.
Holiday markets are offered on Dec. 6, 8, 20 and 22 and give visitors a chance to find the perfect holiday gift.
There’s also a special cookies and cocktails event on Dec. 21.
“The festival offers something for everyone,” m orello said.
Visitors can spend the day in warmth and comfort.
Vintner Wonderland offers various rentals for groups who want to spend time together off of the ice.
They can rent a “cabin cabana” which accommodates up to six people and overlooks the ice rink.
There’s also a choice of renting a dome-shaped heated igloo with views of Vintner Wonderland or a private fire pit for up to eight people for a cozy gathering.
“ every Friday, we highlight a special charity, and 50% of the proceeds from skating are donated to these important causes, making your visit even more meaningful,” morello said.
The Festival of Trees display continues this year in partnership with Faces4Autism to celebrate the season of giving.
Guests can tour decorated trees and support Faces4Autism, a non-profit organization dedicated to the education and support of children with Autism.
“These additions and beloved returning features ensure this year’s Vintner Wonderland is truly unforgettable,” m orello said. Vintner Wonderland has grown in popularity.
m orello said visitors will enjoy several new features for the 2024 season.
“This year, Vintner Wonderland is introducing exciting new features to delight guests of all ages,” m orello said.
Some of the new features include Santa's Post Office, Santa, a free photo booth to capture memories with friends and family in a festive setting, Santa’s Workshop which is a hands-on, creative play area for kids to immerse themselves in holiday crafts and fun, and b arrel rides in authentic wine barrels.
There are new treats that include funnel cakes, cotton candy, and fried Oreos.
This year, the festival will include a charity Skate Night on Fridays.
Last year, the festival welcomed 15,000 to 20,000 guests from New Jersey and other states, morello said.
“Visitors come from all over the region, with many traveling from 1 to 2 hours away, including the New York city metro area, Philadelphia, and surrounding communities. Its growing reputation draws families and holiday enthusiasts from near and far, making it a regional highlight of the holiday season,” morello said.
Families and friends enjoy ice skating on the rink.
Fire pits are available for those who need to warm up on a chilly day.
Eagle Scout designs new veterans memorial for Egg Harbor Township Firehouse
By Stephanie Loder
Thanks to eagle Scout Peter b urns, III, there is a new veterans memorial outside the bargaintown Firehouse Station 2 in egg Harbor Township.
b urns, who has been in scouting since age six, completed the project outside of the b argaintown Firehouse on Tony ‘ mink’ Pagano Drive.
He is the son of Peter b urns, Jr., a member of the fire company for 25 years.
The idea for a veterans memorial came from bargaintown Fire company President Dennis Hofmann, a veteran.
“We had a 9/11 memorial at our firehouse on mill road, but we needed something at Station 2,” Hofmann said.
b urns, a senior at St. Augustine Preparatory School in richland, is a member of Troop 55 in Somers Point. He worked with his father and Hofmann to design and erect the veterans memorial for his eagle Scout project.
“We wanted something for all of
the veterans,” Hofmann said.
The result was a veterans memorial with statues representing all five military branches.
The veterans memorial took more than a year of decision-making and labor.
“It was a year and a half ago I happened to get a call from Dennis who asked if I knew any scouts in the township because they were looking at doing a project at the firehouse,” said burns’ father. “It just happened that my son was gearing up for an eagle Scout project.”
burns, his son, and Hofmann met at the firehouse to decide on the layout of the memorial and what it should include.
“We kind of brainstormed it and decided that putting something around the flagpole, like mulch and other landscaping, would be a good idea,” the father said.
They agreed to use a raised wall platform to display five military statues purchased by the bargaintown Fire company.
“Dennis spoke with my son and he came up with the materials to use to build it,” the father said. “Then we drew something up and presented it to the fire company for consideration and approval. my son set out to find where we could find materials to create a garden.
“We decided on a footprint that was 12 x 24 to the left of station 2,” the father said. “The idea was to have a couple of benches where people can sit and reflect. my son was able to get materials for mulching out the area and the rock for the base of the wall donated from Old c ape recycling and then he reached out to get the block for the wall from Action Supply.”
An American flag and two benches were added to the completed project.
“I’m a big flag guy, so we definitely needed the flag,” Hofmann said.
One of the firefighters also ran wiring for electricity so the memorial could be lit at night.
The veterans memorial began as a concept in April 2023 and the eagle Scout was able to get all of the materials donated around October of last year.
The project was built between mid-April and the end of June this year, the father said.
The veterans memorial is dedicated to all veterans, past and future, said Hofmann, who spent six years in the Army National Guard.
“We have many firefighters in this township who are veterans as well. This is for every veteran,” he said.
Peter is a 5th generation scout, according to his father who said "I am an eagle Scout, my dad was a scout, my maternal grandfather was an eagle Scout, and his father, Peter's great-great-grandfather, was the Scoutmaster of a Troop in Philadelphia for 20 years starting in 1937. "
31st A nnual
Dec. 7th & 8th | 10 am – 4 pm
Eagle Scout Peter Burns, III worked to design and erect the new veterans memorial outside the Bargaintown Firehouse Station 2 in Egg Harbor Township.
Eagle Scout Peter Burns lll, a senior at St. Augustine Preparatory School in Richland, is a member of Troop 55 in Somers Point.
Egg Harbor Township gears up for holidays with Santa on a fire truck, tree lighting
By Stephanie Loder
Egg Harbor Township is getting festive for December with a christmas tree lighting, a Holiday Light Display contest, and the most anticipated event of the year – Santa claus on a fire truck.
The sixth annual holiday tree lighting will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 7) outside the egg Harbor Township community center at 5045 english creek Avenue in cardiff.
mayor Laura Pfrommer will light the tree and the event will conclude with a visit from Santa.
The tree lighting includes live music entertainment, crafts and activities for children.
At 3 p.m. in the community center, children can enjoy Sprinkles with Santa, a fundraiser by the c ardiff Volunteer Fire company Auxiliary.
Preregistration is required.
each child who is registered receives a sugar cookie to decorate –and an opportunity to spend some time with Santa.
Are you hearing fire sirens in egg
Harbor Township? Then you better watch out because it’s likely Santa is in your neighborhood.
The egg Harbor Township Fire Department has coordinated with the North Pole to bring Santa claus to every street in the township.
Santa, who will be on top of a fire truck driven by volunteer firefighters, begins making the rounds at 6 p.m. December 9 in the Farmington section of the township.
bargaintown and cardiff residents will hear sirens and see Santa beginning at 10 a.m.
Santa will be driven through Scullville neighborhoods from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 20 and again starting at 1 p.m. on Dec. 21.
West Atlantic city residents should be ready at 6 p.m. Dec. 21 to see Santa arrive in their neighborhood.
Firefighters in the township are volunteers, and there’s a chance Santa might have to take a detour if there is a fire call.
The fire companies ask that residents don’t dial 911 or call the egg Harbor Township Dispatch center to find out Santa’s location.
check your fire company’s Facebook page to find out more about tracking Santa.
The judging of the township’s Holiday Light Display contest, a combined effort by egg Harbor Township Parks and recreation and the mayor’s Wellness campaign, will take place from Dec. 13 through Dec. 16.
To enter, email your name, phone number, and address along with a photo of your display to recreation@ ehtgov.org. entries must be received by Dec. 10 and winners will be announced on Dec. 19.
Other township holiday events for children at the community center include Gingerbread Decorating from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 17 for children ages 7 to 12 and craftin’ Day 11 which will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 21 for children ages 4 to 8. both are drop-off events geared to give parents and guardians a chance to do some last-minute holiday shopping. The staff will provide holiday crafts, activities, a short movie, and
pizza. children should bring a water bottle and a snack.
The cost for each event is $15 for the first child and $10 for each additional child.
To register, visit www.ehtrec.com or call 609-272-8120.
Don’t forget to enter the township’s 2024 Winter Photo contest.
Snap a shot of your favorite snowy place or snowman in egg Harbor Township. email photos to recreation@ehtgov.org but remember that photographs must be taken in egg Harbor Township to be eligible.
By Julia Train
Forever Forest offers holiday experience for the whole family
During Halloween time, Forever Forest is a spooky attraction, but when the holiday season rolls around, the christmas tree farm is a spot for families to enjoy an evening of activities.
emil Polito, the owner, didn’t plan to buy a christmas tree farm when he moved from brooklyn to bremen Avenue after retiring from a career on Wall Street. He was looking for a retirement property in the area because he frequently visited South Jersey and often went to renault Winery. While visiting one day, he came across a “For Sale” sign on the 15-acre property down the street from the winery.
Polito purchased his home without knowing that attached to it was a tree farm. He initially rented out the tree farm part of the property, but when he realized it wasn’t thriving as a business, he transformed it into a holiday experience in 2017.
For $24.95, guests can enter the immersive christmas experience Friday through Sunday. There are three sessions on Saturdays and two ses-
sions on Fridays and Sundays, lasting two hours each.
The farm offers both indoor and outdoor activities.
During the experience, guests can navigate through “Whoville,” a tree maze filled with lights and c hristmas decorations; During October, it doubles as the Haunted maze. Guests can also take a Trolley ride through the 13-acre tree farm, which during Halloween is the Haunted Trail, to see more christmas-themed scenes.
Three barns feature activities such as crafts, face painting, christmas decorations and karaoke. Visitors can also head to “ marshmello Lane” to enjoy snacks and s’mores available for purchase from a snack trailer by a campfire.
With its array of trees, lights, and decorations, the farm provides the perfect setting to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends. by purchasing a ticket, guests will gain full exclusive access to the 2024
One barn showcases elaborate christmas decorations, including The Grinch, along with face painting and crafts set to holiday music. Another barn features a stage and chairs for karaoke, while the third offers games like air hockey, foosball and arcade basketball hoops.
From Nov. 29 to Dec. 21, the farm offers festive activities with varying operating hours depending on the selected date. On Saturdays, visitors can enjoy a magic show performed by Nate Unsworth as part of the featured attractions. The Selfie Station barn provides a fun spot for family photos and theme-based selfies.
Guests can also head to Santa’s Workshop to write letters to Santa claus and visit him for a photo opportunity, enjoy face painting, test toys, play video games and participate in arts and crafts, all while listening to holiday music.
Tickets are valid for the time session selected, but can be used another day in the case of inclement weather. Although sessions are 2-3 hours, guests are welcomed to stay at Forever Forest as long as they wish until closing time, which varies between 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m..
Learn more at ForeverForestNJ. com
Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain
Forever Forest christmas experience at 354 b remen Ave. in egg Harbor city.
A little girl gets her face painted in Santa's Workshop. Enter "Whoville" and navigate to the other end.
Guests can visit and get a photo with Santa.
Minke Whale euthanized after stranding on Cape May Point Beach
Astranded minke whale was euthanized Tuesday afternoon after being found on Sunset b each, marine mammal Stranding center (mm Sc) officials said.
r esponders were alerted around 2:10 p.m. to the whale, initially reported as deceased, but later confirmed to be alive. The 18-foot whale was stranded on the beach with the outgoing tide.
mm S c ’s stranding team and veterinarian determined the animal was lethargic, malnourished, and suffering from lung congestion. The prognosis was deemed extremely poor due to the crushing effects of prolonged stranding on the whale’s organs.
in securing the carcass overnight, with a necropsy scheduled for Wednesday.
To prevent further suffering, the whale was humanely euthanized. The borough of cape may Point assisted
PEPPERMINT,
SPICE & EVERYTHING NICE
Further updates will be available through the marine mammal Stranding center’s m edia center.
Photo: Marine Mammal Stranding Center
PJ’s Coffee in Linwood celebrates first anniversary, chief roastmaster visits for occasion
By Julia Train
PJ’s coffee in Linwood is getting ready to celebrate its first anniversary on monday, Dec. 9 and Tuesday, Dec. 10.
On m onday, from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., PJ’s chief roastmaster, Felton Jones, will be visiting the coffee shop, providing coffee education and tastings.
A roastmaster is a corporate level executive who’s responsible for sourcing coffee beans, visiting the farms to make sure the coffee’s quality is up to PJ’s standards and runs the roasting facility itself. He is also tasked with creating unique blends for special occasions.
Jones described his journey to roastmaster as a fairytale. He began working in production as a parttime employee at PJs coffee in 1985.
After about a year, an opportunity arose that allowed Jones to leave the production room behind and take on the role of a delivery driver. For someone who enjoyed interacting with people, this was a refreshing change. being out on the road, meeting customers and experiencing the business firsthand in the field felt far more dynamic
than the solitary work in the warehouse, Jones said.
A year later, a relative connected him with the opportunity to manage a roasting operation. The idea of venturing into this new role was tempting, but it was a difficult decision to leave a place where he felt at home.
The owner of PJ’s, Phyllis Jordan, learned about the opportunity and, instead of reprimanding him for considering another job, encouraged Jones to pursue it.
Jordan thought it would be an invaluable experience that could help expand his knowledge and bring back new insights to the company. With that support, Jones made the decision to step away from PJ’s for a time.
The next two years were transformative for Jones. He learned about the mechanics of running a roasting operation, the entire coffee supply chain and how to manage everything from roasting techniques to quality control to green coffee selection.
When the opportunity arose for Jones to return to PJ’s, it was clear that the journey wasn’t over. His predecessor in the role of roastmaster and quality control was moving on to another sector of the coffee industry.
Jordan invited Jones to come back, this time in a more senior capacity as wholesale manager, production manager and quality control manager. It was a full-circle moment, where he took everything he learned during the past two years and applied it to a new set of responsibilities.
For nearly 20 years, Jones served as plant manager and roastmaster, overseeing everything from the daily operations of the facility to the se -
lection of the highest quality coffee beans.
Around three years ago, the company underwent another shift. The role of plant manager was phased out, and Jones transitioned into a new role as brand ambassador, which offered him the freedom to step away from the dayto-day operations.
As a brand ambassador, Jones went from overseeing production to being an educator and advocate for the brand. The job now included traveling with the sales team, supporting franchise operations and helping to expand PJ’s coffee into new markets.
According to Jones, one of the most impactful parts of the brand ambassador role is the opportunity to share the journey of coffee—from the farms where it’s grown to the cup that customers enjoy.
This means regular trips to coffee origins, including recent visits to colombia and brazil, which allows Jones to connect with the the farmers, harvesters and exporters.
"It’s important to build relationships with multiple suppliers and farmers to ensure a steady supply of coffee," Jones said.
During the anniversary celebration on Dec. 9 and 10, PJ’s will be offering drink specials, discounts and giveaways.
Wayne Heaton, owner of PJ's Coffee in Linwood, stands with his wife and business partner Jean outside of the store. Photo provided by Wayne Heaton.
PJ's Coffee opened its Linwood location about a year ago. Photo provided by Wayne Heaton.
Felton Jones, chief roastmaster at PJ's Coffee, has a long history with the company. Photo provided by Felton Jones.
It was the driest autumn on record at the Jersey Shore
By Meteorologist Joe Martucci
Atlantic city International Airport and the Sen. Frank S. Farley State m arina in Atlantic city had their driest autumns on record, while Atlantic city’s weather just did something never seen before in its long history.
With the climatological autumn (September to November) in the rearview mirror, it was what we thought it would be – historically dry, the National Weather Service has now confirmed.
Atlantic city International Airport reported 2.94 inches of precipitation, beating (showing less precipitation than) the previous dry record of 3.34 inches, set in 2001. On the beachside, Atlantic city reported even less precipitation. The 2.19-inch mark was below the previous record of 2.89 inches set in 1941. The airport mark was 27% of the average climatological autumn precipitation. The marina was 20%.
It was more than just the driest climatological fall in Atlantic city, though. It was the lowest precipitation for any three-month period on record, ever. The previous record was 2.52 inches set back in 1895.
b eating any all-time record is impressive, but the one in Atlantic city is supremely impressive to me for two reasons.
First, written records at the marina stretch back to 1874. It is the third longest-running, continuously operating weather station in the United States. Only New York city and charleston, S.c ., have longer histories, according to the World m eteorological Organization.
Therefore, beating any all-time record in Atlantic city is rarer than nearly any other location. The all-time record was broken by a pretty large margin – 0.32 inches.
from the community collaborative rain, Hail & Snow Network also track rainfall. This fall was very dry along the South Jersey Shore counties, with 2.22 to 3.46 inches of rain recorded. An egg Harbor city observer recorded the most, but it was still below average.
This dry weather has caused a deep drought that would need a very wet winter to recover from. However, based on the Winter Outlook, heavy precipitation is unlikely, with totals expected to be around average.
even after the two widespread rains on Nov. 21-22 and Thanksgiving, we remain in “extreme” drought in the area. That’s the third stage out of four possible drought stages.
Learn about the Winter Outlook, Live!
Our final free, live, in-person winter weather forecast seminar will take place in margate on Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. at margate’s Old city Hall on S. Washington Avenue. come out for giveaways, a Q&A, and helpful emergency information from the Downbeach town’s leaders. Advance registration is appreciated. Follow this link to register: https://t.ly/mPsmc. You can also find the link on my social media pages.
Atlantic city International Airport and Atlantic city m arina are official weather stations, but local volunteers
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
Genres include fiction, non-fiction hardback and paperback books for adults, children and young adults as well as puzzles, audio books, cDs and DVDs. Hosted by the Friends and Volunteers of the Ocean city Free Public Library.
Ocean City Train Show
▶Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ocean city music Pier, 825 boardwalk
The annual Holiday Train e xpo will feature running displays, model trains of all gauges and vendors selling various scale model trains. Admission into the show is free.
4-H Holiday Craft Bazaar
▶Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Atlantic county 4-H Fairgrounds, 3210 route 50, mays Landing
Get into the holiday spirit and shop along with vendors indoors and outdoors. There will be plenty of food, gifts, a model train display and photos with Santa.
Ventnor Holiday Craft Showcase
▶Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ventnor Library Atrium, 6500 Atlantic Ave.
Support local artists and shop small this season. Handmade pottery, mosaics, paintings and more will be for sale.
Our Lady of m ount c armel Fairgrounds, 1 m t. c armel Lane, Hammonton
enjoy a festive day with 30+ crafters, live music, horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa photos, “ elf Jr.” cast, games, s’mores, face painting, food and kids games. Free parking. b ring an unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item for those in need. Visit Hammonton rotary on Facebook for more.
South Jersey Players Dessert Theater
▶Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 2 p.m.
Ventnor coffee, 108 N. Dorset Ave., Ventnor
The fundraiser will feature short plays and monologues from local
“Join Us this Holiday Season at Misty Meadow Sheep Dairy”
December 20th
4 pm – 8 pm
Family Fun Night
December 14th 11 am – 4 pm
Stocking Stuffer Saturday
Ice Skating, Hayrides, Vendors, Petting Zoo, Games and Playground
actors and playwrights. Tickets are $20 per person and include regular or decaf coffee or tea, homemade baked goods and the show. Seating is limited. c all 347-920-6399 for reservations.
Atlantic City Cinefest
▶Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8
Fannie Hammer event center at Stockton. 3711 Atlantic Ave., Atlantic city
enjoy two full days of short films and feature-length narratives, documentaries and music videos. View the complete schedule online at www. facebook.com/accinefest. Tickets available via eventbrite.
Holiday Light Show at Smithville ▶Daily, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
615 e m oss mill road enjoy a special light show overlooking Lake m eone every 30 minutes. Stroll through the over 150 shops that make up Historic Smithville.
Christmas Fantasy with Lights at Storybook Land
▶Now-Dec. 23
6415 e . black Horse Pike, egg Harbor Township every operating night at dusk, Santa will wave his magic wand and
light up Storybook Land in over 1 million illuminated lights. The park is open m onday-Thursday from 4-8 p.m., Friday 4-9 p.m., Saturday 2-9 p.m. and Sunday 2-8 p.m. Tickets will not be sold at the gate. Purchase at www.storybookland.com.
Vinter Wonderland at Renault Winery
▶Fridays-Sundays
72 N. b remen Ave., egg Harbor city
Step into the heart of the holidays as renault Winery is transformed into a festive winter oasis filled with joyful activities. enjoy gliding on the ice rink, explore the cozy marketplace, or gather around the firepits. Purchase skate tickets at www.renaultwinery. com.
“Anastasia: The m usical” is the spectacular new musical about discovering who you are and defining who you’re meant to be. This 60-minute adaptation of the broadway hit is specially tailored for young actors and will feature students in third-eighth
grades. Purchase tickets online at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com.
Great Bay Gallery Open House
▶Dec. 6, 7, 8 from12-5 p.m. at 829 bay Avenue, Somers Point.
Distinctive Gifts at a Variety of Prices - Original Paintings, Prints, Photographs, Hand m ade Designed Quilts, boho Jewelry
Santa in the Downtown
▶Saturdays and Sundays, 9-11 a.m.
Soifer Park, Ninth St. and Asbury Ave.
For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.
Horse and Carriage Rides in Ocean City
▶Saturdays and Sundays, Noon-3 p.m.
Sixth St. and Asbury Ave.
For more information visit www. oceancityvacation.com.
Photos with Santa in Ocean City
▶Saturday and Sunday, Noon-3 p.m.
Ocean city music Pier, 825 boardwalk
For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.
Thursday, December 5
Girls Night Out at Historic Smithville
▶6 p.m.
615 e m oss mill road
Grab your girls and head to the Village for some shopping. each store will be running its own promotion from discounts to food tastings. enjoy the fun at over 50 shoppes, seven eateries, carousel ride and train ride.
Port Republic Tree Lighting
▶6 p.m.
Harry bowen m emorial Park, 143 main St.
Grab your mittens and scarves and join the city of Port republic in celebrating the holiday season with an evening of lights, music by the Port republic School and holiday cheer. The History of Model Trains
▶6:30 p.m.
Ocean city Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
Presented by Jack b rooks and charlie m organ. Learn more about model types, gauges and collection value. b ring your questions, your memories and your trains. Held at the chris maloney Lecture Hall.
Friday, December 6
Brigantine Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar
▶5 p.m.
b rigantine Fire Department and community Presbyterian church, 15th St. S. and W. brigantine Ave. enjoy an evening of music, dancing,
↘Continued on 20
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guest character appearances and the arrival of Santa. Plus, performances by the brigantine community School choir, casey’s Dance Studio, appearances by local businesses and nonprofits and a full bazaar of vendors.
Ventnor Tree Lighting
▶5:30 p.m.
Ventnor city Hall, 6201 Atlantic Ave.
Ventnor city celebrates the season with the annual lighting of the christmas tree at city Hall, along with a special visit from Santa himself. For more information, visit www.ventnorcity.org.
Ocean City Christmas Parade
▶6 p.m.
Downtown Asbury Avenue Sixth11th St. rain or shine. For more information or to register, visit www.ocnj.us/ christmas-parade.
Somers Point Holiday Porch Performances
▶6 p.m.
Somers Ave. to Gregory’s enjoy a quirky and humorous rendition of charles Dickens’ beloved holiday tale, “A christmas c arol,” performed by The riddlesbrood Players. Performances will begin at 37 Somers Ave., visiting other porches in the bayfront Historic District and culminating at Gregory’s restaurant,
where holiday refreshments will be served. Admission is free. Presented by the Somers Point Unique e xperiences club.
Vinter Wonderland Tree Lighting Ceremony
▶6-9 p.m.
renault Winery, 72 N. b remen Ave., egg Harbor city
Witness the illumination of their stunning christmas tree, crafted from historic barrels, as the estate is lit up with warmth and festive cheer. Plus enjoy photos with Santa, ice skating and a holiday artisan market. Admission is free. Onsite purchases available.
Northfield Tree Lighting
▶6 p.m.
Northfield city Hall, 1600 Shore road
Santa will be taking lists and pictures, along with free hot chocolate and cookies provided by the city of Northfield Volunteer Fire company Ladies’ Auxiliary. This event is rain or shine and will be held indoors in the event of rain.
Santa in the Park in Absecon ▶6:30 p.m.
Heritage Park, 699 blenheim Ave. The Absecon Fire Department welcomes Santa and m rs. claus to Heritage Park. Take in a hayride, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy snacks and refreshments. bring a new, unwrapped
toy or non-perishable food item for those in need this holiday season.
Lights Out Presents: A Very Valli Holiday
▶7:30 p.m.
Gateway Playhouse, 738 bay Ave., Somers Point
Lights Out takes you back to all your classic favorite songs, with Franki Valli hits and some of the most beloved Holiday classics. Purchase tickets online at www.gatewaybythebay.org.
Jim Craine’s Swing into Christmas ▶8 p.m.
resorts Atlantic city, 1133 boardwalk
Don’t miss a night of merriment and songs of the season, all performed by Jim craine and the Atlantic city All-Star band, along with Suzie Neustadter, miss Leslie’s Dance Studio of m argate Dancers, Happy Tappers Dance Troup and others. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is free for anyone bringing a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. After the event, say hello to Jim craine and the performers in the hallway behind Superstar Theater. After party at The Irish Pub following the event.
Saturday, December 7
HSOC Photos with Santa
▶10 a.m.-2 p.m.
1 Shelter road, Ocean city create a forever ‘Howl’iday mem -
ory that will last a lifetime. While you are there, check out the roscoe Toy Workshop for special goodies. be sure to dress for the weather. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Price is $10 donation per picture; proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Ocean city.
Somers Point Christmas Parade
▶6 p.m.
The parade will go down Shore road from Dawes Ave to city Hall. It's bigger and better than ever with String bands and lots of Floats.
MudGirls Studios Annual Holiday Sale
▶10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Josie Kelly's Public House, 908 Shore road, Somers Point celebrate the season and meet the m udGirls. come early as pieces sell quickly. Features include the new Irini Peace Dove collection as well as other in-person-only exclusive items. Give a unique gift to those you love this holiday season. mudGirls Studios is a non-profit 501(c)(3) social enterprise that empowers disadvantaged women through training and employment. mudGirls Studios helps women transition onto a pathway towards self-sufficiency and out of poverty.
Atlantic City Winter Wonderland Parade
▶11 a.m.
b oardwalk south from r hode Island Ave.
The city of Atlantic city celebrates the holiday season in a festive way. There will be floats, dazzling decorations and holiday cheer perfect for the entire family. m ore details are available at www. acnj.gov and www.facebook.com/ AtlanticcityGov.
Christmas Fair and Market at Somers Mansion
▶11 a.m.-4 p.m.
1000 Shore road, Somers Point
A touch of the North Pole comes to Somers Point. The annual christmas Fair and m arket will include fine crafts, food vendors, meet and greet with Santa, Somers m ansion tours, along with live music and carolers. Support local businesses and the Somers m ansion this season.
Galloway Township Tree Lighting and Ice Skating
▶2-6 p.m.
Galloway m unicipal complex, 300 e . Jimmie Leeds road
The ice-skating rink will be open 2-5:30, there will be photos with Santa from 2 to 4, craft and business vendors on-site, food trucks, a mocktail and cocktail bar, cookies and cocoa by Galloway em S at 5 p.m. m usical performances and fireworks will cap off the evening, alongside the tree lighting at 6 p.m. rain date: Sunday, Dec. 8.
Hear Here Junior Jazz Battle Royal
▶2 p.m.
Ocean city Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
This concert will feature the Jazz House Kids ensemble, under the artistic direction of christian m cbride and the TD Teens for Jazz ensemble. Hosted by the Ocean city Arts center. The event is free and open to the public and will be held in the chris maloney Lecture Hall. rSVP by calling 609-399-7628.
Egg Harbor City Winter Bazaar and Tree Lighting
▶4-8 p.m.
100 block of Philadelphia Ave. Shop for unique holiday crafts from local vendors starting at 4 p.m. There will be plenty of activities for families including ice-skating, photo-ops and holiday-themed movies. Santa will arrive on fire truck with goodie bags for the kids, along with holiday music by local groups and a DJ. The tree lighting will take place at 7 p.m. Philadelphia Bronze presents 30% Chance of Snow ▶4 p.m.
St. Peter’s United m ethodist church, 8th St. and central Ave., Ocean city
Join St. Peter’s for a special concert as the Philadelphia bronze pres-
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ents a christmas Handbell concert. Admission is free. A free will offering will be received. For further information, call 609-399-2988.
Luminary Light Festival
▶5-7 p.m.
Absecon Lighthouse, 31 S. rhode Island Ave., Atlantic city
Join Absecon Lighthouse as they celebrate the holidays with a tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. Decorate a personal Luminary bag, enjoy holiday tunes by DJ Kelli, wine and cheese specialties and How to Thrive in 2025 readings. Tickets are $25 per person. For more information call 609-449-1360.
Ventnor City Twilight Holiday Parade
▶5 p.m.
Ventnor Ave. from New Haven to Nashville Ave.
The parade will feature marching bands, fire trucks, floats, classic cars, Santa and mrs. claus and more. The celebration begins at 4 p.m. and following the parade with food trucks and a holiday market at Weymouth and Ventnor Ave. Visit Santa after the parade at Ventnor Square Theater and enjoy special activities, ballon artists, face painting and spin the wheel.
Somers Point Christmas Parade
▶6 p.m.
Shore road from Dawes Ave. to city Hall
The Somers Point Historical Society will be hosting the annual christmas and Holiday Parade in Somers Point. enjoy an array of marching groups, floats, decorated trucks and a visit from Santa at city Hall following the parade.
Sunday, December 8
Jessie’s Holiday Market
▶9 a.m.-3 p.m.
136 W. Poplar Ave., Linwood
Over 50 local artisans, makers and small businesses will line Wabash Avenue next to the bike path. There will be plenty of activities throughout the day, along with live music, food trucks and café specials.
GEHTHS Holiday Open House
▶1-3 p.m.
6647 W. Jersey Ave., egg Harbor Township
Join the Greater e gg Harbor Township Historical Society for a visit with mrs. claus. She will read to the children and give them little gifts. enjoy holiday treats, music and tour the museum. Admission is free.
Ocean City Library Holiday Festival
▶1-3:30 p.m.
1735 Simpson Ave.
This free holiday celebration will feature crafts, balloon sculptors, live music, refreshments and a visit from Santa. b ring your letters to share your wish list. The Historical
TIRE AND SERVICE EXPERTS
museum will be open for tours, along with their complete train platform and winter exhibit. The Arts center will have beautiful handmade pottery and mosaics on display.
Cape Shore Chorale Christmas Concert
▶3 p.m.
Holy Trinity episcopal church, bay Ave. and 30th St., Ocean city
The cape Shore chorale presents a concert of traditional christmas music in familiar and new arrangements, under the direction of Scott J. breiner. Admission is free and open to the public. A free will offering will be accepted and refreshments provided after the concert.
Paws and Claws Paint Party
▶3-6 p.m.
American Legion Post No. 28, 560 New Jersey Ave., Absecon registration open through Friday, Dec. 6. r SVP by emailing abseconarts@gmail.com. Hosted by the Absecon cultural Arts Alliance.
Merry Christmas Magic Show
▶3-5 p.m.
Somers Point Vol. Fire co. No. 1, 447 bethel road
enjoy a fun filled afternoon of magic and comedy for all with Ken the m agician and Jazzy Jen. Santa will make a special appearance to spread holiday cheer. Tickets are $10 at the door. children under 3 are free.
Tuesday, December 10
Village Film Society
▶10:30 a.m.
Join JFS Village Film enthusiast Tom celandine for a discussion about “White christmas,” the classic holiday favorite celebrating its 70th anniversary. This program will be held via Zoom. rSVP by Dec. 5 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
Renault Winery & Resort will light its Vinter Wonderland tree on Friday, Dec. 6. Photo credit: Renault Winery & Resort
Slow down and spend an hour with like-minded people working on developing gratitude, self-love and other character traits that encourage mindfulness. Weekly meetings include meaningful discussions, camaraderie and a group activity. For more information, call (609) 652-3800 ext. 0306.
Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, Dec. 4, 1:30 p.m.
6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, mays Landing
Held on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. call Diane conover at 609-402-6966 for more information.
NAMI Family Support and Connection
▶monday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.
12/31/24
12/31/24
Holiday Concert at the Library
▶6:30 p.m.
Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Gather at Longport Library for a wood instrument holiday concert, Flutes for Peace. call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more.
Somers Point Dance Society
Hosted by the National Alliance on m ental Illness (NAm I). The Family Support Group is peer led for families, care givers and loved ones of individuals with mental illness; connection is a recovery support group for adults 18+ living with a mental health condition. This month’s meeting on Dec. 9 will be held via Zoom. Visit www.namiacm.org or call 609741-5125 for more information.
MHA Atlantic Family Meetings
▶Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.
▶7:30-10 p.m.
Somers Point Fire Hall, 447 bethel road
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.
Health and Wellness
Living in the Moment Group
▶Fridays, 10:30 a.m.
m ental Health Association of Atlantic county, 4 e . Jimmie Leeds road Suite 8, Galloway
These virtual support groups and educational programs are for individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. contact Gail christian at 609-6523800, ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj. org to receive a meeting link. Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, Dec. 18, 1:30 p.m. 6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, mays Landing
Held on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. call Diane conover at 609-402-6966 for more information.
Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.
ASL Santa helps Margate celebrate 10 years of accessible holiday fun
By Holly Fertsch
On Nov. 30, the m argate Shop Small Saturday parade headed down the streets. From the Shore Local van I saw a Lucy the elephant float, Darth Vader, miss Jersey, a unicorn prancing down the parade route and dancers who braved the cold.
In the age of chain stores holding b lack Friday sales and corporate giants promoting cyber m onday, it was great to see local businesses being celebrated. Aside from showcasing small businesses, the parade was also designed to be an inclusive, family-friendly event to usher in the holiday season here at the Jersey Shore. In fact, Santa himself was in the parade, waving and signing to the crowd.
In Instagram posts and local newspapers like yours truly, this particular Saint Nick has been referred to as “ASL Santa” because he can communicate in American Sign Language (ASL). This isn’t just a gimmick; ASL Santa does more than sign basic phrases like “I love you” or “ m erry christmas.” ASL Santa, and all of his helpers have a goal of making the holiday season more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
While ASL Santa is hearing and can communicate with his voice as well, he makes a point to seek out the Deaf children as well. (When referring to cultural upbringing and identity instead of medical hearing loss, “Deaf” often is capitalized). At the post-parade meet and greet they can have the experience of telling Santa what they want for christmas. m ost of the kids that approach ASL Santa are hearing, but he tries to spend extra time with Deaf ones because it may be their only chance to attend a christmas event where that’s accessible for them.
“The Deaf kids that came up were super polite and they were like, ‘Oh,
there’s kids behind me, I’m gonna go.’ I barely got to speak to them. And they left,” ASL Santa said. “I was looking for them just because if they ever see Santa claus, or anyone christmassy, most (of those people) probably can’t communicate with them.”
Jorge Irwin, the man behind the white beard, explained that he grew up using ASL because he has a Deaf relative. His grandmother taught ASL to him and all his cousins. He also has an associate’s degree in American Sign Language. When he’s not donning his red suit and cap, he works in the public works sector.
b occa c oal Fired b istro hosted ASL Santa after the parade. A line of eager kids quickly formed to tell ASL Santa what they wanted for christmas.
ASL Santa spoke to each hearing child and signed with each of the Deaf children. every child was able to talk to him without language barriers. It was a welcoming holiday event for Deaf and hearing families.
when he can.
ASL Santa was the brainchild of Danyl Loyle, who works in the fire department. Loyle’s daughter attended a bilingual preschool in Upper Township, where she was taught in ASL and english simultaneously. many of her daughter’s classmates had hearing loss.
bocca’s also gave away a slice of pizza and beverage to each child who came into the restaurant after the parade.
Lou Freedman of b occa’s coal Fired bistro said hosting ASL Santa each year has opened his eyes to Deaf culture. He said when Deaf customers come in, they always request a round table so they can easily see each other signing. Freedman said he is always happy to seat Deaf customers there
Loyle said she became involved in ASL after her daughter became best friends with a classmate who is Deaf.
“And then me and the parents became friendly, did a lot together, spent a lot of time together,” she said. “It compelled me to start taking classes.” She wanted to encourage her young daughter to learn more. “So I went to camden county college. I took sign for four years. I took ASL 1 through 4 and fingerspelling,” Loyle said.
ASL classes often require students to immerse themselves in the Deaf culture whenever possible. Deaf culture refers to language, norms and traditions instead of being deaf, the medical hearing loss. Loyle had to attend Deaf events and chat with Deaf people in ASL for course assignments.
“So I would go to the Deaf chats and I would meet people… I found out there was a guy who did Santa claus every year who was an interpreter. And he would dress up as Santa claus and he would go to the malls at certain times, but it was not down here. It was like cherry Hill, King of Prussia…”
Loyle decided to make it happen here. She contacted Freedman, who agreed to host ASL Santa each year. Then Loyle searched for someone fluent in ASL who would be willing to dress up as Santa. The first person she contacted was a cODA (child of Deaf Adults), but he was unable to make it. Irwin then stepped up to the plate and he has been their Santa ever since.
Anna m aria b lescia- courter, ex-
ecutive director of margate business Association (mbA), then reached out to Loyle and offered their support.
“They have helped me grow it to what it is now. And they get nothing out of it… So I give them a lot of credit,” Loyle said.
b lescia- courter said mbA has spent hours promoting the event on social media and reaching out to their networks.
ed b erger, president of mbA, explained why the association is willing to put so much effort into the holiday festivity. “It's all about the kids, you know? For us, it's all about the families. And it's a great time of year for us to partner with one of our most important partners, bocca, to try and bring this great family event together.”
This past Saturday marked the 10th year of ASL Santa coming to bocca.
If you missed out on the meet and greet with ASL Santa, don’t worry. ASL Santa will be back next year to make margate merry, bright and inclusive.
Fruit - Cookies - Nuts Chocolate Covered Pretzels
ipsum
Photos by Tom Briglia/Photographics
Conductor Jeff Seals brings sounds of the season to Linwood church
Enjoy a free Christmas choir concert Dec. 13 at Central United Methodist Church
By Steffen Klenk
With cooler temperatures in the air and c hristmas lights shining everywhere, there is a true sense of holiday spirit these days, especially at central United m ethodist church in Linwood where the chancel choir is preparing for its annual showcase of christmas classics Dec. 13.
The concert will feature traditional renditions of christmas favorites in a spectacular showcase that you won’t want to miss. The performance will open with familiar songs and seasonal hymns, followed by an original cantata of songs with a spiritual message.
Longtime mainland resident Jeff
Seals will be conducting the program. Seals is a former band director for the Somers Point School District where he worked for 36 years alongside his wife, ruth, who served as the school’s choral director.
“I have always loved music,” Jeff Seals said. “It was an exciting thrill to start (introducing music) to a kid in the fourth grade and keep going with them all the way through high school.”
Seals traces his love of music to his family. His dad performed clarinet in the Army band during World War II, and his mom played the piano. Seals’ two children currently work as music teachers in Atlantic county, and his seven grandchildren are all musical. “It’s wonderful,” he said.
While attending The college of New Jersey (formerly Trenton State college) as a piano major, one of Seals’ professors took him to Trinity cathedral in Trenton. “It was a huge cathedral with a magnificent organ.”
What began as assisting and turning sheet music pages at the console
became a newfound excitement.
“The next day I switched my major to organ and the rest is history.”
In 2019 Seals became director of central U mc ’s chancel choir, replacing longtime director James Grant. With more than 30 members, it’s regarded as one of the most distinguished church choirs in our area, with members ranging in age from 32 all the way to 90.
the church. “The choir has such a fine reputation, and they sing very high-quality music,” Seals said.
On Sundays throughout the summer months, Seals can be heard playing the organ at the Ocean city Tabernacle, a position he has held for more than 38 years.
The chancel choir is scheduled to perform 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. The concert will include several instrumental pieces, familiar choral anthems and an exciting cantata titled, “ bethlehem’s child,” written by Victor Johnson and Lloyd Larson. The narrator of the program is William “ b iff” Price, with solo performances by Sue bontempo, rev. Frank reeder, and carl Wagner, with accompaniment by Jean Kiebler. everyone is invited to enjoy this festive concert, which will surely put you in the christmas spirit. central United m ethodist church is located at 5 marvin Ave. in Linwood. Parking is conveniently located behind the church off of central Avenue. The concert is free to attend. A free will offering will be accepted and light refreshments will be served in the adjacent Adam’s Hall following the performance.
“They are such a family,” Seals said. “They were this way before I even got here, but they all care about each other.”
every Thursday night, members of the choir meet for rehearsals at
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.
Jeff Seals at the piano.
SCOTT F. GOODMAN
scott@scottfgoodman.com
What’s happening in Ocean City
Downtown hosts Christmas Parade on Friday evening
Ocean city’s annual christmas Parade travels down Asbury Avenue at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Lights, garland, wreaths and bows adorn “The Avenue” for the season, and the parade will bring a variety of bands, floats and other entries to add a little warmth to the winter.
The event gives spectators time to shop and dine on downtown Asbury Avenue before and after the 6 p.m. start time. The parade starts at Sixth Street and proceeds to 11thStreet.
This year’s parade will feature entries including the Ocean city High School marching band, the Interboro High School m arching b and (of Prospect Park, Pa.), and the Absegami High School m arching b raves. characters from “Frozen,” Frosty the Snowman, buddy the elf, mickey and minnie m ouse will be on floats. coldair balloons – including the Grinch – will be part of the fun. Three string bands, the Salvation Army b rass band, martin and mollie m ollusk and
a variety of floats also will participate.
As part of the annual tradition, Santa claus provides a finale to the parade, greeting boys and girls from a horsedrawn carriage.
m odel trains will be on display and for sale at the annual Train Show 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (Dec. 7 and 8) at the Ocean city music Pier. Admission is free. For more information, call 609-399-6111.
Registration open for Holiday House Decorating Contest
registration is now open for the annual Ocean city Holiday House Decorating contest. The contest awards prizes based on creativity, special effects, lighting, theme and overall appearance. A list of all contest participants will
be posted, so everybody can enjoy the holiday displays. For more information and to register, visit ocnj.us/ HolidayHouse
Coming up in November and December
Horse and Carriage Rides (Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22): Free rides along decorated downtown Asbury Avenue from noon to 3 p.m. with boarding at Sixth Street.
Photos with Santa in a Lifeguard Boat (Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22): 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ocean city m usic Pier.
Santa in the Downtown (Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22): 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at mark Soifer Park (9th Street and Asbury Avenue).
Festive Fridays Along Downtown Asbury Avenue (Dec. 13 and 20):
Join downtown Ocean city merchants as they celebrate the holiday season with shopping specials. enjoy horse-and-carriage rides from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. through the downtown
adorned with thousands of christmas lights and shop for some for the best gifts this holiday season. Two pickup locations include the Tabernacle (Sixth and Asbury) and OceanFirst bank (10th and Asbury).
Anastasia: The Musical (Youth Edition) (Dec. 14 and 15): Presented by the Ocean city Theatre company’s Junior company, the musical is a 60-minute adaptation of the broadway hit specially tailored for young actors. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Ocean city m usic Pier. Tickets can be purchased
atwww.oceancitytheatrecompany. com.
Jolly Trolley Lights Tour (Dec 17): Tickets are sold out for a new holiday trolley tour geared toward families with young children.
First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration (Dec. 31): A complete schedule of entertainment and tickets for this family-friendly New Year’s eve celebration are available atwww. FirstNightOcNJ.com.
First Day (Jan. 1, 2025): celebrate New Year’s Day with a Shopping e xtravaganza on downtown Asbury Avenue, a 5K run on the boardwalk (1 p.m.) and the annual First Dip in the Atlantic Ocean (2 p.m.).
Award-winning nature photographer conveys beauty in every season
By Andrea K. Hammer
As the light shifts in the sky and days come to an earlier close, artists respond to the winter season in different ways.
"Winter months in New Jersey are very good for snow owls, Harlequin ducks, long-tail ducks and a variety of winter ducks inhabiting the bays and ocean. motivation is very high to get great images of the winter duck population, and my creative process is the same all year," says award-winning photographer Anthony Ferraina.
With recognition from edwin b Forsythe National Wildlife refuge, National Geographic Your Shot, King b irder and Pinelands Preservation Alliance, Ferraina is the senior pho -
tographer at Wetlands Wildlife Photography and a Stockton University graduate. He has remained interested in spotting birds and ducks in the woods and along the beach since his youth.
"The Jersey shore has some of the best wildlife in the country," adds the photographer who recently exhibited his images at local craft shows. In addition, Ferraina has held seminars at Stockton University and The Art Society of monmouth county. One enlightening tip is to photograph wildlife between 6.30 a.m. and 9.30 a.m.
"I do believe that images shot between that time frame are substantially better than those taken later in the day when the sun is high," he says. "One to two hours before sunset is also a very good time for shooting wildlife images—the golden hours."
With shimmering light creating a painterly effect in his photo of four
egrets, Ferraina describes them as friends when asked if they came from the same family. Along with his gift of conveying a sense of spirituality in Nature, this wildlife photographer's images tell engaging stories—and convey beauty in every season.
Andrea K. Hammer has written arts and business articles for local, regional, national and international publications.
Whether you’re interested in the hottest new books, educational workshops, children’s activities, or online resources, the library has everything you need to spark your imagination this fall. Visit OceanCityLibrary.org for a complete list of events and resources.
Ocean City’s Gay Talese inducted into the N.J. Hall of Fame
By William Kelly
Famed author and Ocean city native Sun Gay Talese has been inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.
born in 1932 to Italian immigrants, his father was a tailor who operated a shop on Asbury Avenue. Although he got poor grades, Gay Talese began writing as a teenager at Ocean city High School, first for The Ocean city Sentinel-Ledger, then The Atlantic city Press before attending college at the University of Alabama where he wrote a popular column, “Sports Gay-zing.”
After college he got a job as a reporter for the New York Times where he innovated, with Truman c apote and Tom Wolfe, what they called, “New Journalism.” The method combines research with aspects of fiction to push the boundaries of traditional journalism.
He did most of his serious writing in his “bunker,” on the third-floor office of his Ocean city home on east Atlantic b oulevard, which he purchased in 1967 for $37,000, or the fifth floor of his Upper east Side townhouse in New York city.
He met his wife, Nan, a well-known New York editor and publisher, and took her to Toots Shor’s restaurant for their first date. They married in rome in 1959. Though Nan is an editor and publisher, she didn’t handle any of Gay’s work. His primary editor
over the years has been Jonathan Segal at Knopf.
After the popularity of his 1964 book, “The b ridge,” about the building of the Verrazano-Narrows b ridge, he wrote a number of bestsellers including “The Kingdom and the Power,” (1969), about The New York Times and its influence; “Fame and Obscurity,” (1970), a collection of profiles and essays; “Honor Thy Father,” (1971), about the b onanno crime family; “Thy Neighbor's Wife,” (1980), about the sexual revolution in America; and “Unto the Sons,” (1992), about his Italian-American heritage. What many consider to be Talese’s most famous work, however, is a 1966 esquire magazine article titled, “Frank Sinatra Has A cold,” for which
he failed to get an interview with his fellow NJ Hall of Famer, but in talking with the people around Sinatra filled in the blanks to make a great story.
Talese is known for his style. Always impeccably dressed in a tailored suit and tie, he often wears a hat and has a collection of them, all personally made by bruno Lavazza of North m iami, Fla. and inscribed under the headband: “ made e xclusively for Gay Talese.”
Talese said he became conscious of his appearance and tailoring at the age of 10 while observing his father at work. “In the course of fittings he would measure the man and take a measure of the man at the same time.” This attention to detail is something he has applied to his own work.
Talese seldom cooked or ate at home but had breakfast, lunch and dinner at local restaurants, as he put it, “not just to eat, but to eat up the atmosphere.” His most recent book, “A Writer’s Life,” isn’t just about writing. It’s also a history of New York city restaurants that he patronized.
When he was still owned a home in Ocean city he was there often, mainly on weekends, and spent many summers there. He isn’t a beach per-
son, and didn’t go to the beach, even though you could see it from his front porch. He didn’t swim and couldn’t read a newspaper on the beach because of the wind, so he avoided it. He did enjoy playing tennis, however, usually doubles, until age took its toll. He’s now 92.
m ore often Talese was seen driving his garage-kept m G convertible sports car around Ocean city or Somers Point, often observed parked near a popular restaurant.
Talese kept his Ocean city residence – a large, green cedar shingle house with a wrap-around porch –until a few years ago when Nan purchased a house in connecticut, closer to New York and without the Garden State Parkway traffic backlog.
With their two daughters, Pamela and catherine grown, they sold the Ocean city home for $1.6 million, without putting a sign out front.
even though he doesn’t live in New Jersey any longer, he certainly qualifies for the New Jersey Hall of Fame class of 2024. He was one of the 21 selected for induction from the 50 nominated.
Of the 21 chosen only three are from South Jersey. b esides Talese there’s elizabeth coleman White, the first cultivator of blueberries and founder of Whitesbog, now an historic Pinelands plantation; and reva Foster, who founded the Willingboro Senior citizens center.
All of the others, including threetime Academy Award winner m eryl Streep and singer Lesley Gore (“It’s my Party (And I’ll cry If I Want To),” are from North Jersey. The pre-recorded award ceremony, hosted by Danny DeVito, will be shown on NJPbS TV on Dec. 28 and 29, and can also be seen streaming or downloaded on YouTube or Facebook.
A treasure found at Ocean
By Brian Cahill
Ever since I joined the board of the Somers Point b usiness Association, I’ve spent a lot of time promoting and supporting small businesses. So, when I saw the Ocean casino resort was incorporating small businesses into their Holiday festivities this year, I had to go check it out.
Ocean recently opened its aptly named “The Holiday Village at the row,” a variety of vendors lined the festively decorated hallway leading to the incredibly popular Santa’s Hideaway Adventure. (Sidenote: the excitement of watching families eagerly anticipating an elevator ride to the North Pole to meet Santa claus is truly magical). I spent time admiring the creative work of Samantha carell whose work has been recognized internationally, with exhibitions in Paris,
madrid, miami, and New York, among others.
Another one of the vendors was Sea Isle-based Hank Sauce, a locally owned business founded by college friends who wanted to create “thehot-sauce-for-people-who-don’t-really-like-hot-sauce.” There were also a variety of vendors selling heath & beauty items, jewelry, collectibles, and holiday treats, ornaments, & décor. All representatives were friendly and informative and the products were festive and unique.
my final stop was at the m iddletown-based “2 chicks with chocolate,” and while the treats looked delicious, it was the outgoing and friendly nature of the salesman that caught my attention, and made a lasting impression on me.
His name is r yan chinchilla, the 12-year-old son of the store’ owner, elyissia chincilla. r yan greeted me with a friendly hello, as me how my evening as going and reached out to shake my hand (a real firm grip too!). When most kids his age are looking down at their phone, r yan was looking at me straight in the eye with sincerity and purpose. I asked his father if he was always like this and he said yes, and in fact, r yan has participat-
ed in many shows like Ocean’s and he was even featured in a segment on Fox out of NYc because others have noticed how unique he is.
A customer came by to pick up a gift he had purchased earlier, and I asked him if he noticed what I did about r yan. He replied “I sure did. It’s because of him that I bought it,” said Tony, an Ocean casino resort team member. “ r yan is going to do great things. He is knowledgeable about everything he is selling. There is a special aura about him - it’s as if he is 20 years beyond his age.”
perfectly natural. Ocean’s Holiday Village at The row is open for shopping every Saturday through December 21. I highly recommend taking a stroll to enjoy the shopping and all of the holiday experiences at Ocean. And, if you see r yan, shake his hand and say hello. Trust me, it’s an experience you’ll treasure for a long time.
When he’s not charming customers, r yan likes to go fishing and ride his bike with his small group of friends. I asked him if he preferred to hang out in person with a few of his friends rather than on social media with thousands, he said, “I sure do. The smaller the circle, the better the people.” These words of wisdom coming from any 7th grader would’ve seemed odd, but from r yan, it was
For more information on Ocean casino resort’s Holiday Village visit https://www.theoceanac.com/offers/oceans-holiday-village
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He is also on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
Views from the Shore
All aboard the Santa Express
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! At the boarding platform of the richland Train Station in b uena Vista Township, the christmas season can already be felt as passengers line the platform waiting for the arrival of the Seashore Lines Santa express! Operated by the Seashore Lines railroad, it is one of several popular excursions, taking passengers on a 75-minute journey between richland and Tuckahoe, and has remained a christmas tradition for families far and wide since 1996. This particular excursion service will amaze kids of all ages with special appearances from Santa, his elf, live musicians and the train conductors to make spirits bright for the holiday season.
At the Tuckahoe Station, passengers will get a feel of the allure of historic landmarks that line the streets of this railroad town. The former reading company structures and charming passenger station, originally built in 1897, remain in service. even the steel water tower, once used to supply water to steam locomotives, has been standing since 1922.
In richland, the vibrant history of a blossoming rail town remains untarnished. Directly across the street
from the station is the richland General Store, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks and a mainstay in the community for over a century. And just a few blocks down the street, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of carefully handcrafted model railroads at Patcong Valley m odel railroad club.
Passengers will instantly notice the classic trains that are a mainstay to this special line. The locomotives were built in the 1960s, but look like newly minted off the showroom floor. Step inside one of the coach cars, and
christmas lights and posters of the past line the walls and ceilings. As you leave the station, families will be greeted by a friendly elf, leading into a cheery rendition of “Jingle All the Way.” And, of course, the ride would not be complete without a visit from Santa himself. Passenger Services representative Alex chmelowitz said the Santa e xpress provides one of a kind memories for all passengers, especially children.
“The ability to impact a child in their early years is very special,” he noted.
Families can select a ride in one of the coach cars, or take a first class excursion in the Vista Valley, a deluxe lounge car featuring Private Family Suites. The Vista Valley, formerly of the famous train the Super chief (known as the “Train of the Stars”), traveled between chicago and Los Angeles, carrying well-known celebrities such as Frank Sinatra and clark Gable.
freight service between Tuckahoe, beesley’s Point and cape may court House. Passenger service ended on Oct. 2, 1981 between cape may and Lindenwold.
Today, the c ape m ay Seashore Lines offer both passenger excursions, in addition to freight service for local industries. Tony macrie founded the modern day Seashore Lines railroad in 1996, after beginning his railroad career as a track laborer in Pennsylvania. “I love what I do. It isn’t for the weak and weary,” he said.
The seashore rail line in use today was constructed in 1863 by the Tuckahoe and cape may railroad. both the richland and Tuckahoe stations served as a stopping point for the reading company’s Atlantic city railroad, and, later, the Pennsylvania- reading Seashore Lines (PrSL), providing seasonal service to cape may county. Often dubbed “The Steel Speedway to the Shore,” several former Pennsylvania- reading Seashore Lines railcars remain part of the modern Seashore Lines fleet.
The Santa e xpress offers children of any age the experience and excitement that the holiday season has to offer. chmelowitz agrees. “Without a doubt, (it is) the most special time of year. The Seashore Lines operates other passenger excursion services during the course of the year, but the Santa e xpress is the most popular with our patrons.”
In the summer of 1927, during its peak of operation, both stations saw a total of nineteen “through” round trips. by 1976, the PrSL was operated by conrail, who operated
The Santa e xpress operates now through Dec. 23. Parents can book tickets online by visiting www. seashorelines.org. Also, be sure to stay tuned for information regarding future excursions this upcoming year!
Santa makes grand arrival in Ocean City
By Steffen Klenk
On a chilly November afternoon, the streets of Ocean city filled with enthusiasm as Santa made his appearance to kick off the holiday season. The city’s annual christmas in the Downtown, held last Friday, brought hundreds to Asbury Avenue for a full day of shopping, festive carols, and strolling entertainment. by late afternoon, crowds started gathering at 9th & Asbury to hear local singers and choirs perform seasonal favorites. but it wasn’t too long before Santa made his appearance on top of city Hall, much to the delight of hundreds below. In annual tradition, Santa was escorted from the roof with the assistance of the Ocean city Fire Department, then joining local leaders and the crowd in a countdown to illuminate city Hall and two-story christmas tree.
This month, America’s Greatest Family resort gets into the spirit of the season with its annual christmas Parade on Friday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. The event will take place along Asbury Avenue from 6th – 11th Streets. Also be sure to check out the Downtown merchants for Festive
Photos by Steffen Klenk
Towns see savings with centralized court
With operating costs for the central municipal c ourt of Atlantic county expected to be 45% less in 2025, county executive Dennis Levinson believes non-member towns may have a difficult time arguing against joining the court.
Jewish Family Service partners with the central m unicipal court to provide those interventions.
“I tell taxpayers, if your town isn’t in the court, you are paying substantially more,” said Levinson. “The idea for this court was to realize savings for our towns and our taxpayers that live in one of the highest-taxed states in the country. And it’s working.”
“The only argument towns have to stay out of the court is home rule, whereby they can appoint their own judges, prosecutors and court administrative staff,” he added.
Ten towns currently participate in the central m unicipal court, the first of its kind in the state. They include: corbin city, egg Harbor Township, e stell m anor, Galloway Township, Hamilton Township, Linwood, Northfield, Port republic, Ventnor and Weymouth Township.
The central m unicipal court of Atlantic county opened in January 2022. Prior to that, the average annual cost of operating municipal courts in these 10 towns was slightly more than $2.9 million. The proposed operating cost for the central municipal court in 2025 is slightly less than $1.7 million, a savings of $1.2 million.
Levinson noted additional savings with a reduction in the rate of recidivism for defendants in the central m unicipal court who are referred by the judges to social service supports to address issues such as domestic violence, substance abuse and mental health.
“Secondary savings for our taxpayers result from individuals being treated for problems before they escalate and reach the Superior court,” he stated. “Added to the actual cost savings is the priceless benefit of greater safety and protection among our citizens.”
“We are all aware of someone who has struggled to get help for themselves or a loved one suffering from substance abuse, homelessness
or mental health issues. The central m unicipal court of Atlantic county is able to provide immediate social service interventions in the initial stages of the criminal justice system, unlike any other court in New Jersey,” said Levinson. “This innovative effort is having a positive impact on the lives of our residents in addition to providing cost savings to our towns and their taxpayers. We are extremely pleased with the results.”
Photo credit: Atlantic County Government
Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson
Meet the breed: The Irish Water Spaniel
By Heidi Clayton
While at the National Dog Show a few weeks ago, I spent some time with a breed I have had little experience with. I will admit to becoming a bit smitten with the breed known as the Irish Water Spaniel. Keeping in mind that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, I learned that the Irish Water Spaniel is considered a low-shedding dog. People with allergies report having little to no symptoms living with them.
Known to their fans as the “IWS,” this breed is one of the oldest dog breeds of the b ritish Isles. They appeared in books as early as 1607. The first known painting of one is dated in 1841. rat-tailed spaniels were known for working the waterways of Ireland as retrievers for some time. A man named Justin m ccarthy took
the best traits of those spaniels and created the breed now known as the Irish Water Spaniel in roughly 1859. by the 1870s, they were known to be one of the most dedicated and willing retrievers around. They made their way to the United States and became an official breed registered with the American Kennel club in 1884. During the late 1800s, the IWS was ranked third in registration in the sporting group.
What I noticed about the IWS was that they were all jovial and clownish. Those are traits unique to their breed. They are known to be the most devoted and enthusiastic of all of the retrieving dogs. Their breed club describes them as “active, willing, and energetic companions.” They were bred to be “personal retrievers” so while they are perfectly fine with strangers, they are a breed that doesn’t necessarily care if they meet and greet every person they see. Their owners report that they are extremely intelligent dogs, but have a mischievous side to them that will require you to turn a lot of their training into a game. Their owners call it having a “streak of the Irish” in them.
The average size for a male IWS is about 55-68 pounds. Female
December 2-13
Place a clearly marked bag of canned goods out on the curb on your recycling day between December 2-13 and ACUA crews will deliver your donations to the Community FoodBank of NJ
IWS’s average size is between 4558 pounds. They have a signature waterproof coat that is composed of loose, curly liver-colored ringlets. These dogs also have a rat-like tail and webbed feet. They are a low-shedding breed but will require some brushing here and there. However, for the most part, the shedding is minimal. Unlike designer mixed breeds, their coat has remained the same for hundreds of years.
The IWS is now considered a low-entry breed in the American Kennel club. Fewer than 200 are registered in a year. Their parent club does a tremendous job of keeping this breed from extinction. They have also done a fantastic job of keeping them out of the hands of puppy
mills, so very few are ever available for rescue. b reeders of IWS test all of their stock for hip and elbow dysplasia prior to breeding as well as ensure that they are free from heart and eye diseases. The Irish Water Spaniel club of America encourages those interested in the breed to visit a breeder and spend time with the adult dogs to get to them. check out the Irish Water Spaniel if you are looking for a dog that loves to swim, is a natural at duck hunting and retrieving, and has a happy, devoted (and possibly a bit of goofy) disposition. You can learn all about them at IWScA.org.
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
Ten South Jersey nonprofits to support this holiday season
By Sarah Fertsch
South Jersey is home to many incredible nonprofit organizations making a difference in our communities. Supporting these groups can bring joy to your neighbors and make the season brighter for all. Here are 10 nonprofits you should know about and how you can lend a hand:
1. Community FoodBank of New Jersey – Egg Harbor Township
The community Foodbank of New Jersey is a vital resource in the fight against hunger, providing millions of meals annually to individuals and families in need. Partnering with food pantries, soup kitchens and schools, they distribute food and supplies while also offering programs like nutrition education and workforce training to combat food insecurity at its roots.
How to Help:
– Donate non-perishable food items.
– Volunteer to sort and distribute donations.
– make a financial contribution online.
See: https://cfbnj.org
2. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Atlantic and Cape May Counties – Somers Point
cASA recruits and trains volunteers
to advocate for children in foster care, ensuring they have a stable presence in their lives and that their needs are met in court proceedings. Their mission is to provide a voice for these vulnerable children and work towards finding them safe, permanent homes.
How to Help:
– Volunteer as a child advocate.
– Sponsor a child’s holiday gift wish list.
– Donate to support training programs for volunteers.
See: https://casaacc.org
3. Atlantic City Rescue Mission –Atlantic City
The Atlantic city rescue m ission serves individuals experiencing homelessness by offering emergency shelter, nutritious meals and comprehensive support services. They help clients rebuild their lives through job training, addiction recovery programs and spiritual guidance.
How to Help:
– Donate warm clothing and blankets.
– Volunteer to serve holiday meals.
– contribute to their year-end giving campaign.
See: https://acrescuemission.org
4. Humane Society of Ocean City –Ocean City
The Humane Society is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need. They provide essential services like spay/neuter programs, vaccinations and adoption events to ensure the welfare of pets and the people who love them.
How to Help:
– Adopt or foster a pet.
– Donate pet food, toys or bedding.
– Volunteer your time at the shelter.
See: https://hsocnj.com
5. Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties – Margate JFS offers a lifeline to individuals and families through a wide range of services, including mental health counseling, food assistance, job placement and senior care. Their holistic approach strengthens the community by addressing immediate and long-term needs.
How to Help:
– contribute to their food pantry.
– Sponsor a family’s holiday gifts.
– Volunteer to help with holiday programs.
See: https://www.jfsatlantic.org/
6. HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers – Somers Point
The H erO c ampaign honors the memory of ensign John r elliott by promoting safe and sober driving. Their mission is to end drunk driving through education, community events and the celebration of designated drivers as heroes who save lives.
How to Help:
– make a pledge to be a designated driver.
– Donate to support their awareness programs.
– Spread their message on social media.
See: https://www.herocampaign.org
7. Covenant House New Jersey –Atlantic City covenant House provides shelter,
support and life skills training to homeless and at-risk youth. Their comprehensive approach empowers young people to overcome trauma, find stability and achieve self-sufficiency, ensuring they have a brighter future.
How to Help:
– Donate warm winter clothing or toiletries.
– Volunteer at the shelter or mentor a young person.
– Support their fundraising initiatives.
See: https://covenanthousenj.org
8. Heart of Surfing – Multiple Towns
Heart of Surfing is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that offers year-round recreational opportunities for families with autism or related disabilities at no cost to the participants. In the warmer months, primary events include adaptive surfing and skateboarding. In the cooler months, Heart of Surfing offers sensory-friendly roller skating, ice skating, visits to the waterpark, trampoline park, train rides with Santa and many more special holiday events. Heart of Surfing was formed in 2014 and is 100% volunteer driven.
How to Help:
– Donate to the organization.
– Volunteer at an event.
– Follow them on social media.
See: https://www.heartofsurfing.org
9. Mud Girls Studios – Atlantic City
m udGirls Studios transforms the lives of women facing adversity by offering them training, employment and a pathway out of poverty. by creating ceramics, women are empowered and equipped to overcome adversity.
How to Help:
– Host a fundraising event.
– c ommission commemorative pieces.
– Purchase clay art.
See: https://www.mudgirlsstudios. org
10. Leadership Studio – Atlantic City
This organization’s mission is to elevate the physical and mental well-being of the community through yoga, leadership development and education.This nonprofit provides support for a number of disadvantaged groups, including single mothers and recovering addicts.
How to Help:
– make a monetary donation.
– Volunteer.
– contribute to their holiday toy drive.
See: http://www.leadershipstudioac. com
South Jersey nonprofits work tirelessly to uplift our community. This holiday season, consider sharing your time, resources, or skills to help them continue their vital missions. Together, we can make a difference.
N.J. gas tax to rise by 2.6 cents on Jan. 1
By Nikita Biryukov
New Jersey’s gas tax will rise by 2.6 cents on Jan. 1 because of a new law that raised revenue targets to pay for the state’s transportation infrastructure, Treasury officials announced m onday.
This year’s annual increase will bring New Jersey’s combined gas taxes to 44.9 cents per gallon, up from 42.3 cents, while total taxes on each gallon of diesel will rise from 49.3 cents to 51.9 cents.
“We are pleased that this dedicated funding stream continues to provide billions of dollars across the State to support our critical transportation infrastructure needs,” said Treasurer Liz m uoio.
revenue from New Jersey’s gas taxes is dedicated to the state’s transportation trust fund, which pays for infrastructure investments in roads, bridges, and other projects.
The increases are due mostly to a bill Gov. Phil m urphy signed in march that reauthorized the trust fund’s bonding authority and raised the gas taxes’ revenue targets by roughly 18% over five years, increases that lawmakers said were expected to add about 2 cents to the levy annually.
The law adds roughly $84 million to the gas taxes’ roughly $2 billion revenue target each year of the phase-in, and gas tax rates automatically adjust to meet those goals based on fuel demand each year. The taxes’ revenue targets are set to increase by $418 million over the entire five-year phase-in.
Gas tax rates rise if fuel consumption falls, and they decline if demand for gasoline or diesel rises. Officials forecasted demand for fuel in the
current July-to-June fiscal year would rise by 0.6% over the prior fiscal year.
New Jersey charges two separate gas taxes. The motor Fuel Tax charges a fixed rate of 10.5 cents per gallon on gasoline and 13.5 cents per gallon on diesel.
The Petroleum Products Gross receipts Tax adjusts annually to meet revenue targets. Its per-gallon rates will rise to 34.4 cents for gasoline and 38.4 cents for diesel on Jan. 1.
Credit: NJ Monitor
Photo by Dana DiFilippo
Trump presidency may stop windmill projects
By Nikita Biryukov, NJ Monitor
President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House could derail New Jersey’s ambitious clean energy goals.
Trump on the campaign trail pledged to claw back unspent funds from the federal Inflation reduction Act, whose clean energy tax credits helped fuel a renewables boom, and in may, he vowed to halt offshore wind projects on his first day in office, repeating claims about wind surveying work’s impact on marine mammals.
“The windmills are driving them crazy. They are driving the whales, I think, a little batty,” Trump said at a September rally in South carolina.
His broad opposition to New Jersey’s ambitious renewable energy goals — which include a call for the state to draw 100% of its power from renewable sources by 2035 — could stymie development of wind and solar projects in the state.
Gov. Phil m urphy, who has backed clean energy projects since entering office in 2018, earlier this month said he would seek to convince the incoming administration with economic arguments rather than ones based
on climate change, though he acknowledged renewables could be a hard sell in Trump’s second term.
“It’s a ridiculous bridge that’s been built between smart, sensible energy policy that allows us to not have to import energy but make us an export state, union jobs, construction jobs, clean energy in the most densely populated American state,” he said on a radio show earlier this month.
“It checks so many boxes, and yet it’s gotten this woke label, which is ridiculous.”
Though republicans are set to control both chambers of congress in addition to the presidency, it remains to be seen whether rank-and-file lawmakers will back a wholesale repeal of the Inflation reduction Act.
The law has sent federal funds for clean energy projects to a host of states, including numerous republican ones.
b ut even if Trump’s opposition to the law faces resistance from his own party, he may be able to derail other renewable projects through the federal permitting process.
Projects on federal land require
federal approval, and a Trump administration could move to block wind farms in federal waters and solar farms on federal lands, like those called for by an Aug. 29 biden administration plan to erect expansive solar farms in 11 western states.
b ut wind projects, which have faced repeated hurdles amid escalating costs and complicated regulatory regimes in recent years, could be insulated somewhat from federal permitting because the long timelines involved in such projects could take them past the end of Trump’s second term, said environmental
activist Dave Pringle.
“The good news, bad news of offshore wind projects is they have a very long time horizon,” Pringle said.
critics of m urphy’s green energy policies hope a Trump presidency would encourage New Jersey to pursue a more diverse energy future over the coming decades rather than an all-out and expensive push for fully renewable generation.
“Part of the problem that we have as an economy is all of a sudden they want to literally turn the switch off and go onto this … all electric-generating even though we don’t have the capacity,” said Sen. Joe Pennacchio (r- m orris).
The fate of New Jersey’s renewable projects may well depend on whether officials can convince the Trump administration their endeavors are rooted in economics rather than environmentalism, and officials are already making that argument.
“I hope the president sees this is not a granola, quote-unquote, endeavor just because we want to look like we’re woke. This is cold-blooded capitalism, and this is smart energy policy for America,” m urphy said.
The president-elect could move to block wind projects and clean energy investments. Photo by Sarah Vogelsong.
Butterfly murals brighten Brigantine
By Marjorie Preston
By now, most monarch butterflies have passed through New Jersey on their annual journey to mexico. but some will be sticking around indefinitely, thanks to a mural project commissioned by the city of brigantine and the brigantine Garden club.
When the project launched last year, local artist Priscilla b ello was the first to volunteer her time and talent. The muralist spent several weeks sanding, priming and painting a utility box along b rigantine Avenue near 31st Street. In the process, she transformed a purely functional electrical enclosure into a work of art.
“I wanted a painting that was bright, colorful, and big enough to see from across the street,” says b ello. She certainly achieved that goal: in her painting, dozens of vivid
monarchs seem to burst from the center of a brilliant sunflower surrounding the metal box. They are especially vibrant against a deep blue backdrop.
The public was enthusiastic, says bello, and often paused to thank her for her work.
“That was really fun—the city bus that beeped, and all the people that
stopped and said, ‘Good job.’ I enjoyed meeting so many people and artists.”
Taking wing
The project was the brainchild of brigantine Public Works Superintendent John Doring. Inspired by murals in nearby shore towns, he envisioned the public art as a way to beautify utility boxes that were installed after
Hurricane Sandy.
master gardener and b rigantine Garden club member Linda mantello added to the concept. She proposed a “butterfly trail” depicting species native to New Jersey.
“It fit in with our emerging focus on growing native plants to support pollinators and butterflies,” says Garden club board member Laurel Leigh,
Onetime commercial artist Deb Savo braves the elements to create a garden populated by buckeye and painted lady butterflies.
Priscilla Bello painted Brigantine’s inaugural mural, starring a swarm of monarch butterflies.
Brigantine’s Yan Yao painted the Brigantine lighthouse, a vivid blue seahorse and a spray of spicebush swallowtail butterflies.
who supervised the project. “The effort was to make the species as diverse as possible.”
So far, the list includes red-spotted purple butterflies, orange sulphur butterflies and great purple hairstreaks. There’s also a whole group of swallowtails: spicebush and eastern tiger varieties, as well as blue swallowtails.
Of course, the eastern black swallowtail also enjoys pride of place. In 2016, the indigenous Papilio polyxenes was designated the state butterfly by then governor chris christie.
Ultimately, the mural project will be educational as well as beautiful, notes Leigh. “Once
the boxes are all done, the plan is to create Q r codes that allow people to scan and link to information about each of the butterflies,” and why they are important to the ecosystem.
Local color
Deb Savo is a onetime second homeowner who now lives in b rigantine full time.
A graduate of Philadelphia’s m oore college of Art, she spent 20 years as a graphic designer and art director.
Savo spent two weeks on her intricate mural, on the northern end of b rigantine Avenue. It features dazzling painted lady and common buckeye butterflies fluttering above a garden of purple coneflowers.
Like b ello, she enjoyed “a lot of positive feedback” from passersby. “It was nice,” says Savo. “A lot of people came by to say hello. They thanked the artists for beautifying something that was not so beautiful.”
Three murals were completed in 2023. An additional five were added this year. Look for more to come in 2025.
“I was very excited when everybody started painting,” recalls bello, who may be interested in painting another mural. “It was fun to ride to work and see everything coming together. The murals really make brigantine more beautiful.”
Marjorie Preston is a business writer, editor, ghostwriter and compulsive reader, who gobbles up books like potato chips. For more information (and more book reviews), visit marjorieprestonwriting.com.
Brigantine artist Meredith Birchall paints a shore scene with red-spotted purple butterflies.
In November, muralists and friends toasted their artistry at a gathering hosted by the city. Front row (l. to r.) Artists Yan Yao, Linda DeBow, Laurie Devers, Rosemary Snyder, Pam Carchidi and Priscilla Bello, with Brigantine Garden Club advisory board member Anne Phillips. Second row: Superintendent of Public Works John Doring, Garden Club board member Laurel Leigh, Brigantine city councilman Neil Kane and Garden Club board members Louise Groeber and Patricia Baldt. Absent: Sister Celeste Mokrzycki and Kathleen Schotterback, Meredith Birchall
Mainland Regional highlights outstanding local football season
By David Weinberg
The mainland regional High School football team was supposed to be rebuilding this season.
The renovation was completed much faster than expected.
A year after winning the state Group 4 title, the m ustangs defied preseason expectations by reaching the Group 3 championship game.
“We wanted to prove everybody wrong and we did,” mainland defensive standout Dan DeFeo said. “We were the only ones that knew we could get back here.”
mainland fell short in its bid for a second straight title, losing 28-16 to North Jersey power Old Tappan last Sunday at rutgers University, but the defeat didn’t tarnish what
was widely viewed as an outstanding season.
m ainland finished with a 10-4 record that included an impressive playoff run. The m ustangs a third straight sectional crown with a convincing, 41-14 win over Seneca, then edged Somerville 36-35 in the state semifinals by making a two-point conversion in overtime.
“I’m really proud of the kids, the team, the coaches,” mainland coach chuck Smith said. “I don’t think anybody expected us to be in this situation this year, and it’s a tribute to the kids. Their work ethic and dedication to the coaches.”
A number of players also achieved impressive milestones along the way.
Junior wide receiver Jake b lum set a school record with 15 touchdown receptions. Senior running back rocco Debiaso rushed for 1,910 yards and 26 touchdowns on 256 carries (7.5 yards per carry).
Junior quarterback John Franchini finished the season with 4,299 career passing yards. That broke the school record of 4,298 set by b rent caprio in 2008.
Franchini enters next season with 34 career victories, putting him in position to challenge the South Jersey record of 43 set by 1996 Paulsboro graduate Kevin Harvey.
“I think (the state final loss to Old Tappan) doesn’t take anything away from our great season,” Franchini said.
That put a wrap on what was another terrific season for local high school football teams.
winning record. They also play the carolina Panthers (3-9), Dallas cowboys (5-7) and New York Giants (2-10). conversely, the Lions’ foes are a combined 38-22. They have upcoming games against the Green b ay Packers (9-3), b uffalo b ills (10-2), chicago b ears (4-8), San Francisco 49ers (5-7), and Vikings (10-2).
Local NFL update
mainland, the South Jersey Group 3 champion, was among eight local teams to qualify for the state playoffs, along with Absegami (central Jersey Group 3), Atlantic city (cJ 5), cedar creek (cJ 3), Holy Spirit (Non-Public b), Oakcrest (South Jersey 3), Ocean city (cJ 3) and St. Augustine Prep (Non-Public A).
Holy Spirit (constitution) and Oakcrest (Liberty) also won division titles in the West Jersey Football League.
Eagles on a roll
b uffalo defensive tackle Austin Johnson (St. Augustine, Galloway Township) had 12 defensive snaps in Sunday’s night’s 35-10 rout over the San Francisco 49ers in snowy buffalo Sunday night. Johnson has 13 tackles and two interceptions this season. Green bay wide receiver bo melton (cedar creek High School) was on the field for 16 plays (9 offense, 7 special teams) in the Packers’ 30-17 win over miami last Thursday. He has nine receptions for 73 yards and six carries for 39 yards this season.
The Philadelphia eagles continued to roll with a 24-19 victory over the baltimore ravens Sunday.
Their eighth straight win improved the record to 10-2 – the third straight year the birds have been 10-2 or better after 12 games – and left them tied with the m innesota Vikings for the second-best record in the NFc behind the Detroit Lions (11-1).
beating the ravens (8-5) was significant in that baltimore was viewed as the eagles’ toughest remaining opponent, though potentially tough games are ahead against the Pittsburgh Steelers (9-3) and Washington commanders (8-5).
Arizona rookie cornerback m ax m elton (cedar creek), bo’s younger brother, registered one tackle in a 2322 loss at minnesota Sunday. For the season, he has 31 tackles, three pass defenses and a forced fumble.
Local boxing update
Pleasantville welterweight
Anthony Young (23-3-1, 8 KOs) earned an eight-round, majority draw against Dominican republic’s Windry Amadis martinez (10-2-1, 5 KOs) last Saturday at AcX1 Studios at the Pier Shops at caesars.
That puts them in a great position to challenge the Lions for the No. 1 seed in the conference playoffs.
Their last five games are against teams with a combined 27-34 record. The Steelers and commanders are the only two that currently have a
Young, fighting for the first time after an 18-month layoff, earned a 7775 advantage on one judge’s scorecard. The other two officials scored it even at 76-76.
The card was the 10th held in Atlantic city this year. That marked the town’s best year for boxing since 2018, when it also hosted 10 events.
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
This week’s edition features the best in entertainment, from comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld, to the mind-blowing talents of m att Fraser, along with a plethora of festive tree lightings and electrifying performances, including Tiësto. This week’s lineup is sure to keep you entertained, so don’t forget to share your epic moments with the
hashtags #shorelocal, #gotowhitney and #thecitypulse.
Jerry Seinfeld’s comedy career took off after his first appearance on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny carson
in 1981. eight years later, he teamed up with fellow comedian Larry David to create what was to become the most successful comedy series in the history of television: “Seinfeld.” Don't miss Jerry Seinfeld at borgata's event center.
Who: matt Fraser
Where: borgata Hotel casino & Spa | The m usic box
matt Fraser is “America's Top Psychic medium” and star of the hit television series on e . entertainment. His soldout live events, television appearances and spiritual teachings have allowed him to bring healing, hope
NJ 08244
and laughter to a global audience of fans and followers from all around the world.
Who: The Temptations and The Four Tops
Where: Hard rock Hotel & casino | Sound Waves
When: Friday, Dec. 6
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: casino.hardrock.com/atlan -
HOLIDAY CATERING MENU
Meat & Cheese Board
Small serves 15-20 people
Large serves 25-30 people..........
Grilled Veggies Board
Small serves 15-20 people
Large serves 25-30 people..........
Crudite & Hummus Board
Small serves 15-20 people
Large serves 25-30 people..........
Shrimp Cocktail
Small serves 10-15 people...........
Medium serves 15-20 people.....
Large serves 20-25 people
All sandwich trays come with three homemade sides (potato salad, macaroni salad, & cole slaw) along with classic deli pickles, and condiments Sandwich Trays
Assorted sandwiches on rye bread and kaiser rolls include roast beef, smoked ham, roasted turkey, corned beef, Swiss, and American cheese
Free 2 liter soda with purchase of sandwich tray.
Small serves 6-8 people
serves 10-12
Hot roasted turkey, roast beef or brisket with gravy, roasted garlic smashed potatoes, and green beans
Get ready to groove to the rhythm of legendary m otown music as The Temptations and The Four Tops unite for an unforgettable show at Hard rock Atlantic city on Dec. 6. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness two iconic groups sharing the stage, delivering timeless hits and captivating performances that define an era.
What: Gimme Gimme Disco
Where: Anchor rock club
When: Friday, Dec. 6
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: anchorrockclub.com calling all dancing queens! If you can’t get enough AbbA then does Anchor rock club have a dance party for you. The GGD DJs will be playing all your favorite AbbA hits, plus plenty
of other disco jams from the ’70s and ’80s like The bee Gees, Donna Summer and cher. Disco attire encouraged.
Join renault Winery for an unforgettable evening as they officially kick off the holiday season at Vintner Wonderland. Witness the illumination of their stunning christmas tree crafted from antique barrels as it lights up the estate with warmth, tradition and festive cheer.
What: Swing into christmas Show benefiting Toys for Tots
Where: r esorts c asino Hotel Atlantic city | Superstar Theater
When: Friday, Dec. 6
Time: Doors open at 7 p.m.; show starts at 8 p.m.
Website: resortsac.com/entertainment/swing-into-christmas-benefiting-toys-for-tots/ Don’t miss a night of songs of the season all performed by a lineup of Atlantic city’s greatest stars. Starring Jim “the Singing Lifeguard” craine and the Atlantic city Allstar band celebrating 50 years in show business. Also starring Atlantic city’s songstress, Suzie Neustadter, miss Leslie’s Dance Studio of m argate Dancers, Happy Tappers Dance Troupe and other surprise special guests. Plus enjoy a cash bar 7-9 p.m. Admission is free for everyone bringing a new, unwrapped toy.
Join bally’s for the third annual Holiday Tree Lighting. Hosted by bally’s Atlantic city and c at country 107.3 at 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 at The Yard. Special hosts Joe Kelly and Jahna m ichal from the cat country 107.3 m orning Show. enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, holiday treats, live DJ entertainment and a photo booth. Also, b ally’s 2024 holiday cocktails and mocktails will be available for purchase, plus much more.
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What: chelsea Neighborhood Tree Lighting
Where: O’Donnell Park
When: Friday, Dec. 6
Time: 6 p.m.
come out and enjoy a multicultural holiday celebration and tree lighting in Atlantic city’s chelsea neighborhood. b ring the whole family and enjoy festive performances, free face-painting, photos with Santa and the Grinch, hot beverages and holiday giveaways.
What: World b eauty Fitness and Fashion
Where: resorts casino Hotel
When: Saturday, Dec. 7
Time: 5-10:30 p.m.
Website: wbffshows.com/ac-proam be mesmerized by some of the most beautiful models from around the world. rock the runway at the WbFF
entertainment Fashion and m odel Spectacular.
Who: Tiësto
Where: Ocean casino resort | Ovation Hall
When: Saturday, Dec. 7
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: theoceanac.com/tiesto
Grammy Award-winning, platinum-certified, international icon, Tiësto, takes the stage at Ovation Hall on Saturday, Dec. 7. Don’t miss this eD m (electronic dance music) icon in Atlantic city.
Get ready for an unforgettable night with the legendary cyndi Lauper, as she takes the stage. Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing her magic for the first time, this is a concert you won’t want to miss. Secure your tickets now and be part of a night filled with fun, nostalgia and pure rock ‘n’ roll energy.
What: breakfast with Santa at Fred & ethel’s
Where: Fred & ethel's Historic Smithville
When: Saturday, Dec. 7
Time: 9-11 a.m.
Website: eventbrite.com
Santa claus is coming to Fred & ethel’s. Join them for a kid-friendly breakfast. Santa will stop by your table during breakfast and then settle into their backroom for photo-ops with families. children under 3 are free, but be sure to add them to your ticket for seating purposes.
Dave & buster’s Atlantic city will be hosting " breakfast with Santa.” cost is $32.13 and includes: a breakfast buffet with soft drinks, tea and coffee, a $10 Power card with unlimited video game play, swag bag, taxes and gratuity. There will also be fun and
festive christmas activities and a personal photo with Santa.
What: Atlantic city cinefest
Where: Stockton University Atlantic city | Hamer event center
The Atlantic city cinefest returns Dec. 7 and 8 to the Hamer event c enter at the Atlantic c ity campus of Stockton University, Atlantic and Albany avenues. The two-day film festival will feature a collection of short and feature length narratives and documentaries.
What: christmas in concert
Where: borgata Hotel casino & Spa
Time: See website for dates and times
Website: borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/the-music-box/ christmas-in-concert.html christmas In concert is a magical celebration of the holiday season that treats the audience to an exciting performance of holiday classics. Featuring breathtaking costumes, choreography and musical arrangements, christmas In concert is a jolly good time.
Website: theirishpub.com
What: The Irish Pub christmas Spectacular
Where: The Irish Pub
When: Kick off is Saturday, Dec. 7 and various days until Tuesday, Dec. 24
When: Now thru Jan. 6
Time: 8 p.m.
Join The Irish Pub and experience the joyous wonder and magic of christmas. The Irish Pub and Inn is once again transformed into a christmas wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights, christmas trees and one of the largest and most magnificent christmas displays you’ll ever see.
What: candy cane Lounge Atlantic city Pop-Up bar
Where: resorts casino Hotel | bar One
When: Now until Jan. 3 Website: resortsac.com/entertainment/winter-holiday-pop-up-bar
Get ready for some holiday cheer at Ac ’s favorite seasonal pop-up bar. It’s the perfect place to sip on
holiday-themed cocktails, take some holiday selfies and enjoy festive decor and live entertainment.
What: Ocean’s Holiday Village Where: Ocean c asino resort
When: every Saturday until Dec. 21
Time: 11a.m.-9 p.m.
e xperience Ocean c asino r esort’s enchanting Holiday Village, a festive wonderland filled with joy and cheer. Located inside The Shops at The row, shop Ocean’s Holiday Village this year for the perfect gift. enjoy Ocean’s 10 hand-selected vendors to experience the magic of the season with a bespoke local flair.
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!
Atlantic City Cinefest set to honor Austin Pendleton
William Sokolic
The Atlantic City Cinefest returns Dec. 7-8 to the Fannie Hamer event center at the Atlantic city campus of Stockton University, 3711 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic city.
Submissions have been selected and a schedule released for the two-day film festival. The selections include a mix of short and feature length narratives, documentaries, music videos and animation.
The screenings run Saturday, Dec. 7 from 12-8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8 from 12-6 p.m.
“We usually run the festival in mid-October, but this year we pushed it back to early December, a normally slow time in Atlantic city,” said b ill Sokolic, chairman of the board of trustees. “Different time, but we hope filmgoers will discover interesting movies.”
Like "Weekend at the Agamemnons", which stars Ginger Grace and
his decades of work in Hollywood.
Austin Pendleton carries a pedigree that has sustained his career for decades as a character actor. A small, but memorable role was as a public defender in the deep south assigned to the trial of two northern young men accused of murder in the comedy “ my cousin Vinny.”
ReOpening
saver award for his long distinguished career.
The Warren Ohio native graduated Yale before joining the Steppenwolf Theater in chicago, according to I m D b . His first feature was 1968’s “Petulia,” a minor uncredited role. but that served as the beginning of a career of well over 100 appearances in film and television.
Few knew that Pendleton got the late Philip Seymour Hoffman one of his first acting jobs at a New Jersey theatre company.
And he also received consideration for the role of Fredo in “The Godfather.”
With roots in the theatre, Pendleton received a nomination for a 1981 Tony Award as b est Director for directing elizabeth Taylor in a revival of Lillian Hellman's "The Little Foxes."
but it’s comedies that define much of Pendleton’s work.
“All the comedies I've done have been hard to film,” he says on I m D b “Film is an anomalous environment for it because you don't know whether they're going to laugh or not. So you're doing this stuff in total silence. Also comedy is hard to master. In theater when you do a comedy, you
rehearse for a few weeks, and you begin to feel the rhythm. In film, it's an arbitrary rhythm usually that has to look like a truthful one to work. I'm not complaining; I've been in some of the best comedies ever made. b ut I have never been on the set for a comedy where you don't feel like you were in trouble all the time.”
“As a character actor, Austin has impressed me for years. He’s got a unique way of expressing himself on film,” Sokolic said.
Tickets range from $6 for an individual block of films, $15 for a daily pass and $26 for an all-festival pass and are available through FilmFreeway. Visit https://filmfreeway.com/
atlanticcitycinefest/tickets to order. Tickets will also be available at the door.
For full schedule and additional information, visit atlanticcitycinefest.org or email any questions to bsaks47@comcast.net
Austin Pendleton.
Drummers Rule! Jason Bonham, Marky Ramone bringing their bands to AC
Tune In, Turn On
With Doug Deutsch
Two rock drummers with distinctly different sounds will bring their
respective bands to Atlantic city this weekend and next.
Jason bonham, son of legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John b onham, returns to Hard rock casino’s Soundwaves Theatre with his ‘Led Zeppelin evening’ 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. After 14 years of performing Zeppelin classics, bonham introduces a refreshed setlist, with deep cuts and re-imagined arrangements. bonham has mixed up the setlist this year;
songs that hadn’t been performed in more than a decade are now part of the younger b onham’s set.
“It’s nice seeing the response when you decide to change things up,” b onham said recently. “You can get comfortable doing what you’ve done for 14 years. Songs like ‘Dazed and c onfused,’ which we hadn’t done in ages, are back. Last night we played and the song was 24 minutes long!”
bonham last performed in Atlantic city in 2023, opening for Gov’t m ule as part of the former’s “Dark Side of the m ule” tour at Hard rock Live at etess Arena. “We start in a completely different way now, which keeps us on our toes,” bonham said. “Someone told me that our new opener was supposed to kick off Zeppelin’s 1980 tour, the one that never happened. It’s a cool nod to history.”
Just as Jason bonham is carrying on the musical legacy of his father, John, Jason’s son, Jager Henry, is following in his dad’s footsteps, opening some shows for bonham on this tour.
“His (Jager’s) new music is phenomenal. It’s aggressive, hard, but well done,” bonham said. “He’s got this incredible stage presence — he’s 6-foot-4 and usually shirtless — so he grabs attention. I’ve told him, ‘One of these nights, they might not like you,’ but every time, he wins them over.”
Marky Ramone, one of the last surviving members of famed New York punk group the ramones, has forged a nice career outside of performing as host of the “ m arky ramone’s Punk rock blitzkrieg” show on Sirius Xm radio. marky ramone’s blitzkrieg visits the Tropicana Showroom Saturday, Dec. 14, performing a whopping 38-song set (those who remember the ramones know their songs were usually three minutes or less). Longtime South Jersey music fans may recall the ramones performing at the legendary nightclub Gables in m argate (now Tomatoes restaurant) in 1982 (we were there!), as well as the long-gone-but-not-forgotten Wildwood club, The Playpen. marky replaced drummer Tommy ramone in 1978; he also played in various groups, including influential
NY rockers richard Hell, and the Voidoids, Dust, Wayne county and the backstreet boys. While the ramones never played in Ac , marky previously did – in 2006 in a band called Osaka Popstar, a “supergroup” of sorts featuring Dez cadena (b lack Flag), Jerry Only (m isfits), and Ivan Julian (Voidoids), at the now-closed House of blues.
Bits ‘N’ Pieces: Dom Levy, bassist for popular South Jersey rock band Fat m ezz, releases his debut album “Lazy river” this coming February. “I’ve been working on “Lazy river” since 2022. I wanted to create music with no expectations, lots of creativity and room for improvisation,” says Levy, whose father, comedian “ reverend” bob Levy, was once part of Howard Stern’s show. “I recorded (Lazy river) at The Audio Lab with Tony m ascara. The production in songs like “Thought of You Again” attempt to produce the Wall of Sound and layered instrumental textures of (beach boys) brian Wilson.” Fat m ezz are currently in m emphis recording new material.
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.
Marky Ramone (far right) and his band will perform at the Tropicana Showroom Dec. 14.
Peter Gabriel-era Genesis alive and well thanks to The Musical Box
By Chuck Darrow
These days, anyone who keeps tabs on casino entertainment bookings knows you can’t swing a bass guitar without hitting a tribute band: Hardly a week goes by when there isn’t at least one such outfit playing a local casino. b ut The m usical box stands apart from the pack, and not only because it’s among the oldest of musical mimics.
The m usical box, which performs Saturday at caesars Atlantic city, is arguably the greatest tribute band of all, thanks to its painstakingly clonelike recreations of concert tours performed by Genesis in the days when Peter Gabriel was the group’s lead singer, and its sonic stock-intrade was not the radio-friendly pop
confections of the version fronted by Phil c ollins, but musically and lyrically dense and complex pieces that fell squarely under the “progressive rock” banner.
A performance by the m ontreal-based quintet doesn’t merely feature faithful sonic recreations of material that Genesis recorded in the first half of the 1970s. Instead, it is a spectacularly precise— some might say near-supernatural—conjuring of a Gabriel-era concert down to the authentic visual elements originally used by Genesis, lead singer Denis Gagne’s surreal costumes (which were worn by Gabriel on the band’s early-’70s tours) and even Gagne’s verbatim recitations of Gabriel’s between-song spiels (not to mention his double-take-inducing physical resemblance to the b ritish singer-composer during that time period).
of the greatest albums of all time,” offered Gagne in a light French- canadian accent during a recent phone chat.
And this isn’t just a random opinion: No less an authority than collins—whose primary role was that of
December 12th
Josie Kelly ’s Public House Doors at 6pm, show at 7:30pm
Patty Blee Danny Eyer Rich “Megahur tz ” Kur tz, • • Guy “Ringo” Merollo “Big Bob” Ernano Tom Feehan • • Mitch S utton from Hawkins Road Guest stars Robbie LeBlanc from BOGLE WINES, who previously per formed with Paul Schaffer and Teddy Royal, Fats Domino’s guitarist FREE GENERAL ADMISSION
Compliments of Conser vator y Cannabis Co and Josie Kelly ’s Tables of four can be reser ved for $25 Premium reser ved seats $10 Reser vations at RESY.com “Josie Kelly Public House” Special Menu and Full Bar 908 Shore Road, S omers Point Go to tonymar t.com for more details
drummer until Gabriel quit the band in 1975—has proclaimed that, in his eyes and ears, The m usical box “play it better than we did.” currently, the 31-year-old unit is on an extensive, worldwide tour celebrating the 1973-’74 road trip that Genesis mounted in support of the group’s fifth (and many would say best) studio album, "Selling england by the Pound", which was released in September, 1973. To hear Gagne tell it, it doesn’t get any better for him.
“To be honest, it's my favorite Genesis album and I believe it's one
“It's an amazing album. I can still remember the first time I put the album on my record player, and I hear [Gabriel] singing the opening lines of [“Dancing with the m oonlit Knight” the LP’s lead track]. And I'm already sold. I'm like, ‘Oh my God, what's going on? What's this?’ I didn't expect that for one bit; I had no idea what I was about to listen to.”
Gagne noted while he was already a fan of the group, "Selling england" took things to a different level. “It became my favorite album. It's still my favorite Genesis album. And, since Genesis is my favorite band, I guess you could say it is probably my favorite album of all time.
“It’s just the way [“ m oonlit Knight”] builds up through the whole song: It's very quiet and then it's coming, it's coming, and then it explodes
Showers,
and then it goes back down. I mean I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is a masterpiece!’
“I don't need to convince anybody that ‘Firth of Fifth’ is just an amazing track,” he continued. “And so is ‘cinema Show.’ And while I know that it's not one of the fans' favorites, I've always been a big fan of ‘The battle of epping Forest,’” he noted, referring to the side-two track that tells the somewhat whimsical tale of a rumble between two groups of London gangsters.
Tmb ’s standard Selling england program also includes other Gabriel-era signatures including the song “The m usical box” (from 1971’s Nursery cryme) and two classics from the 1972 album Foxtrot, “Watcher Of the Skies” and “Supper’s ready.” The latter is the side-two epic that, at 22 minutes and 58 seconds, was recently calculated to be the fifth-longest song in history by the largest.org website (in case you’re wondering, the top spot in the survey was Jethro Tull’s 1972 opus, “Thick As A brick,” which was a single song encompassing both sides of the album).
It seems a little surprising that The m usical box could sustain an internationally acclaimed career for three decades given that its repertoire does not include such beloved post-Gabriel Genesis tracks as “Invisible Touch,” “Throwing It All Away” and “That’s All.” b ut Gagne--who joined the group after it had played, by his count, 30 concerts (he estimated he currently has some 1,400 gigs under his belt)—is not at all puzzled by that.
“After Genesis became huge and played stadiums and all that, I think that all those people who saw Genesis with Peter at the time were nostalgic for that era, and they wanted to see it again,” he reasoned.
“And I think also that all the people who saw Genesis later on were intrigued: ‘What were they like when Peter was fronting the band?’ every Genesis fan in the world knows that they all wish that Peter would come back in the band; I've known forever that it's never gonna happen because he's not interested.
“So I guess that's, that's what it is, like all these fans are like, ‘We want to see Peter with the band.’ And [Gabriel] himself will say, ‘Well, if you want to see what I did with Genesis, go and watch The m usical box.’”
In turn, such success has provided Gagne a life he couldn’t have imagined in the early ’90s.
“I never expected to be doing this for so long,” he said. “ but as our drummer once said to me: ‘You know, we grew up dreaming that we were these guys. And well, now we kind of are these guys two hours a night.”
For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.
Sounds of the Season at Borgata
This year’s only original casino holiday production show kicks off Saturday at borgata Hotel casino & Spa.
Produced by local impresario Allen Valentine, christmas in concert will be presented 18 times through christmas eve. It’s a revusical expected to include a sleigh-full of Yuletide favorites--secular and religious--as well as plenty of slick choreography and eye-catching costumes.
For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.
Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.
Everyone’s invited to the Tony Mart Christmas Party to savor musical treats
By Carmen Marotta
Enjoy classic rock ‘n’ roll and c hristmas favorites, signature and personal songs from eight Tony mart Allstars. Guest stars will be performing special new recordings, requests and classic rock and party favorites.
It’s been a great year at Somers Point b each, The Atlantic city b oardwalk and all the free live music parties.
We want to celebrate the past year and look forward to another phenomenal year together at the Tony mart christmas Party, sponsored by conservatory cannabis co. located at 2516 Fire road, egg Harbor Township. It will be a free party but tables of four can be reserved for $25 and
individual reserved seats are $10 at Josie Kelly’s Public House where the doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Headlining that evening will be the “Grand Dame” of song in South Jersey Patty blee, with our own Danny eyer, musical director of The Tony mart Allstars rich “ megahurtz” Kurtz, Guy “ ringo” m erollo on drums and Tom Feehan.
There will be guest stars, including New York city rocker and and former Paul Shaffer collaborator robbie Leblanc from bogle Wines; Teddy royal, Fats Domino’s guitarist for over 10
years, and Tony mart allstar “ b ig b ob” ernano, performing songs from his band mr. Wordsworth’s album “Pass The Story Down,” produced by r ich “ m egahurtz” Kurtz and available on all streaming platforms.
A holiday menu will be available and seats can be reserved by going to Josie Kelly’s Public House on resy.com
Our Tony mart Allstars and our guest stars are all preparing to perform these special musical treats for the occasion.
We look forward to getting together and sharing the warmth of the friendship of our Tony mart Family with special thanks to conservatory cannabis co. Looking for that perfect holiday gift? Go to conservatorycannabis. com or call 609-904-9409. Take advantage of their holiday specials, find the perfect gift for that special person on your list!
Also, don’t forget the warm feelings that Tony mart tee shirts bring as holiday gifts to your friends.
For christmas, let’s all get together with our community & music family to celebrate the magic of this holiday season.
Let the good times roll!
The Hook catches festive fever
A special holiday edition of show commences Nov. 29 Plus, special holiday events at Horse Dive Bar and Superfrico Atlantic City
Even if you’ve seen The Hook at c aesars Atlantic city a dozen times, you’ll want to come back for the presents, whether you’ve been naughty or nice.
grinch-proof holiday night-out with friends, family or chosen family.
It’s the riotously funny, seductively beautiful adults-only circus variety show you know and love, now overflowing with all the spirit and surprises of the festive season. The holiday hits are queued (it’s time, m ariah!), the ugly sweaters are out of mothballs, and The Hook’s jaw-dropping acrobats and entertainers are ready to sleigh the most wonderful time of the year. And for this holiday season only, local Philadelphia performer Jesse Patterson will join the show with her gob smacking, hula-hooping tribute to turkey-lurkey time.
beginning Nov. 29 through Dec. 30, the celebrated Spiegelworld show is cranking up the tinsel factor, making The Hook the most stress-free,
b efore taking in the special holiday edition of The Hook, audiences can escape the icy winds of the Atlantic at Horse Dive b ar, where the halls are well and truly decked. Located right inside The Hook’s lobby, this cozy, local jaunt is warming spirits
with boozy hot chocolate and spiced hot cider, both served with a frosted penguin cookie who’s ready to take a dip.
And anyone looking to up their holiday hosting game can learn the art of Italian flavors with a Fresh mozzarella and charcuterie board making class at Superfrico. On Thursday, Dec. 12, the restaurant’s m ozzarella masters are spilling all their secrets, teaching you how to pull and stretch your own mozzarella from one pound of fresh belgioioso curd. Once you’re done pulling, you’ll be topped off with an exquisite glass of ruffino chianti as the mozz YOU made tops a gourmet charcuterie board featuring the finest selection of cured meats and accompaniments. After you admire
take all the knowledge home along with a custom-branded charcuterie board as a gift - perfect for showing off when you host your in-laws. Places for this one-night-only class are limited, so book your spot now at Spiegelworld.com.
The Hook show performs Wednesday - Saturday at 7 p.m., with additional 9:30 p.m. shows on Fridays and Saturdays and a 2 p.m. performance on Sundays. Tickets can be purchased at Spiegelworld.com/ TheHook.
Superfrico Atlantic city at The Hook is open for dinner Thursday - Saturday from 5-10 p.m. b runch is served on Sunday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. reservations can be made at Spiegelworld.com/ restaurants/Su
Cyndi Lauper will perform at Hard Rock on Saturday, Dec. 7. Photo credit: Cyndi Lauper Facebook
Tremonti Sings Sinatra
▶7 p.m.
The m usic box at borgata
Friday, December 27
Pitbull
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Saturday, December 28
Pitbull
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Gary U.S. Bonds
▶7:30 p.m.
resorts Atlantic city
Tuesday, December 31
Pitbull
▶10 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
On Sale This Week
Earthquake
▶Friday, April 4, 9 p.m.
Harrah’s Atlantic city
Nimesh Patel
▶Friday, Jan. 24, 9 p.m.
The m usic box at borgata
Tickets on sale Friday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.
Historic places are not just old buildings with interesting architectural design – they are living pieces of history. each has a unique story to tell that adds to its charm. There is an allure that cannot be replicated.
m uch like cheers, The Inn on St. Louis has been the meeting place for many couples who met here and eventually married, and many who simply celebrated milestone events through many generations of caretakers over the years.
The Inn on St. Louis is one of the oldest, continuously operating inns and local restaurants in South Jersey, dating back to the late 1800s when the r oesch Family owned and operated the Inn as the John roesch Hotel. b uilt during an era when horse and buggy was the main method of transportation, it was a long trip for visitors travelling from Philadelphia to Atlantic city and The Inn was a comfortable rest stop and local meeting place. The roesch Hotel offered rooms above the Inn— a safe place to spend the night while enjoying a home-cooked meal.
coal was delivered for heating, and a steep, hand-built, century-old staircase remains in the rear of the basement for deliveries back then.
John r oesch's nephew was George Sorg who eventually took over and renamed the roesch Hotel to the Sorg Hotel. We believe this era lasted into the 1940s or ‘50s under George "Gork" Sorg.
Sorg was a master carpenter in the boating industry. As times changed and the comfort of the automobile was now common, he lived above in the largest of the apartments on the north side, and continued operating hotel rooms above on the south side, while running the Inn as a " men's bar."
Local historical records show the property existing as early as the 1890s, but some say it began in the 1870s. Original access panels in the basement reveal the original coal chute under the front porch where
As of late 2023, local resident, Anna Walker, 84, recalled her friendship with Sorg’s daughter, Peggy (deceased) and hanging out on the property. She recalled m rs. Abel cooking for the Inn.
Dr. bob Senese, a retired eHc physician in his 80s today and now lives near batsto, married Peggy Sorg and
Since 1890, folks have gathered at this location in Egg Harbor City.
he and their daughter, Sorg’s granddaughter, Kathy Senese, are still in the area.
There may be a gap in history between the 1940s and the next documented owners. Sometime in the 1980s, there was a fire in a garage that housed some of the city’s historical tax records and this era is now a mystery.
Sometime in the late 1970s, Giacomo's Vineyard opened at the Inn as an Italian restaurant and that was a prominent local restaurant for decades.
Local resident and waitress Kay b reder preceded Giacomo’s and spent over 20 years in the building, carrying over to bob and Sue miller’s subsequent ownership.
Actress Yuvonne Decarlo, “Lily” of m unsters, loved Giacomo’s and dined here often. It’s noted that there are bullet holes behind the siding in the vestibule, rumored to be an unsuccessful warning to Nicky Scarfo, who also frequented the Inn during Giacomo's era.
eventually, c arl Schlue, member of the Iron Workers Union and proprietor of another establishment on Philadelphia Avenue near Duerer Street, took over for Giacomo's while money was still owed to Atco bank.
Schlue is said to have assumed the property and the bank note, and he apparently moved the liquor license to his establishment. It’s said that he eventually gave the property back to the bank and then it was sold to bob and Sue miller, late summer/fall 1991. The millers eventually purchased and transferred another license back to the property. It operated through 2004 as the Inn of egg Harbor.
In 2004, local contractor Alex m cKee purchased the Inn and the successful era of m cKee's Irish Pub began.
In 2011, m cKee sold the property to Tom and b onnie Young, who
are still regular patrons today. The Youngs operated Irish eyes Tavern in the early 2010s and partnered with local pizza legends Sal and Pete for a short time. Then the property was leased very briefly to a restaurant called Spanish eyes.
In 2017, bob and Anne Lund, also patrons today, opened a German themed restaurant Fest Haus, a local favorite to many.
The property was purchased in 2023 by the current owner, Ken Schaffer, who along with General manager r yan beebe, created “The Inn on St. Louis” as we know it today. The property was acquired, fully renovated with a desire to retain all original elements of this historic property, and The Inn On St. Louis officially opened in summer 2024.
Throughout the Inn’s 135+ years of operation, one thing has remained a quaint, historic property that transforms the patron back in time with century old hardwood, authentic tin ceilings and appointments that have served many generations of the local community.
We look forward to creating many new memories and new traditions for the Inn. We’d also love to see digital copies of old menus and scanned photos of years gone by, and hear your unique stories to include in our compilation of history! While this historical compilation is believed to be correct, it is history that’s based on the recollection of many locals, so some facts contained here are subject to correction over time as we learn more through the locals who have so passionately frequented The Inn over the past century.
As the new proprietors of this historic property, we’re honored to continue the legacy of the hardworking families in egg Harbor city who cared for this place. We’d love to hear from past patrons who’ve made memories within these walls.
Live & Local Music Calendar
Thursday, December 5
Atlantic City
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Jeremy raves Trio
5:30 – 9 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
DJ Gabor Kiss
8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Dane Anthony
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
The cliffs
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
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
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Gregory’s
bryan m ccloud
5 WEEKENDS OF HOLIDAY
NOV 23
Holiday Kickoff at Mudhen
NOV 27 – JAN 1
Holiday Window Decorating Contest
Display at the Wildwoods Convention Center & Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce – FREE
NOV 29 – DEC 8
Wildwoods Holiday Restaurant Week – NEW!
NOV 29
Family Holiday Beach Bonfire
NOV 29 – DEC 1
Christmas in North Wildwood – FREE
NOV 30
Wildwoods Holiday Shopping Village/ Small Business Saturday – FREE
DEC 1, 8, 15, & 22
Holidays at HenVille: Shopping Village – FREE
DEC 3
Wildwood Crest Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony – FREE
DEC 6
Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade – FREE
DEC 6
Downtown Wildwood Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – FREE
DEC 6 - 7
Greater Wildwood Jaycees Downtown Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza – FREE
DEC 7
North Wildwood Tree Lighting Ceremony – FREE
DEC 7
Santa Paws in North Wildwood – FREE
DEC 7
Wildwood Holiday Spectacular Concert – NEW!
DEC 8
Holiday Tree Jubilee in Wildwood Crest
DEC 13 - 14
Wildwood’s Winter Wonderland at Holly Beach Park – FREE
DEC 14
Family Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Wildwoods Convention Center – FREE
DEC 14
Pinch the ‘GrYnch’ Boardwalk 5K Run
DEC 14 12 Pubs of Christmas
DEC 16
Wildwood Crest Holiday Light Walk – FREE
DEC 20 - 21
Wildwood’s Winter Wonderland at Holly Beach Park – FREE
6 p.m.
900 Shore rd.
Josie Kelly’s
40 North Duo
7 – 10 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Queen Jayne’s
cosmic charlie
6 – 9 p.m.
264 New rd.
Friday, December 6
Absecon
Reddog’s Hi Point Pub
DJ mike
9 p.m.
5 N. Shore rd.
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Jeremy Oren
6 p.m.
Kevin Story
9:15 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
Gimme Gimme Disco Dance Party
9 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Candy Cane Lane at Resorts
Glenn roberts
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Gary
9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Danny Lynch
6 p.m.
Temporary Grace
10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Dane Anthony band
5 – 8:30 p.m.
The event Horizon
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
The Wave at Golden Nugget
Flashback Friday: Timeless rock
Legends
9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
Tony & Taylor
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
500 St. Andrews Dr.
Margate
Bocca
Jim Shaw
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s matty Q
8 p.m.
316 roosevelt blvd.
Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light
1133 boardwalk
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Dan Orlando Trio
6 – 9:30 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
Dueling Pianos
9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Adam Holcombe Duo
7 p.m.
The benjamins
10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Tony caine
7 – 10 p.m.
1 N. New York rd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Live m usic
8 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
bob m ower Trio
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s
Tom brett. 6 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
The Dane Anthony Band will perform at The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock on Friday, Dec. 6. Photo credit: Dane Anthony Band Facebook
Saturday, December 7
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Kristina Pruitt
6 p.m.
Dominick martino
9:15 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
For Those Who c an See w/ Diamonds to Dust, m onument to a m emory, Prevailer
7 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Candy Cane Lane at Resorts
DJ Gary
9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
1133 boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
Dueling Pianos
9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Who brought the Dog Duo
7 p.m. band of make believe
10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Steve m oore & m IA
5 p.m.
Grooveheart
10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Kono Nation
5 – 8:30 p.m.
cat 5
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Topgolf at Ocean Casino
Patty & m elanie
8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Marmora
Yesterday’s
mike LaGuardia
8 p.m.
316 roosevelt blvd.
Millville
Levoy Theatre
Lotus Land
8 p.m.
126-130 N. High St.
Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light
Tom and Sarah
7 – 10 p.m.
1 N. New York rd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay bar None
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
bob m ower Trio
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s
chris Yoder band
8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
908 Shore rd.
The Damn the Torpedoes will pay tribute to Tom Petty at The Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton on Saturday, Dec. 6. Photo credit: KTYarbrough Photography
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Damn the Torpedoes: The m usic of Tom Petty
4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
217 e main St.
Waretown
Albert Music Hall
b luegrass Holiday Show w/ ramapo Valley ramblers, Libby Prison
m instrels, Fish and Whistle, crab
Grass, elaine and cimarron Sky band
6 – 9 p.m.
131 Wells mills rd.
Sunday, December 8
Atlantic City
Anchor Rock Club Tierra cali
9 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Candy Cane Lane at Resorts
DJ eric
3 – 8 p.m.
1133 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Dueling Pianos
8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Andrew m oorer band
4 – 7:30 p.m.
3am Tokyo
8:30 – 11:30 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Millville
Levoy Theatre
The Great American Soul book: Holiday edition. 7 p.m.
126-130 N. High St.
Somers Point
Josie Kelly’s
Traditional Irish Session
1 – 4 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Monday, December 9
Atlantic City
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
billy Walton band
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
DJ Trivia hosted by Starshield
7 – 9 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Gregory’s
Tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series
7 – 8:30 p.m.
900 Shore rd.
Tuesday, December 10
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Patty & bugzy
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Dane Anthony band
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay m usic b ingo hosted by DJ chris
John. 7 – 9 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Josie Kelly’s DJ Ken
5 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Wednesday, December 11
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
michael Stevens
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Liquid A
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Margate Bocca
bob Sterling & The bocca boys
7 – 10 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Open m ic Night hosted by b lue eagle
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Lew London
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s
Jimmy brogan
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Events subject to change.
A toast to the best wines of 2024
Drink Up!
By David Setley
This time of year, I like to anticipate the coming months while looking back on the past twelve with gratitude. First, allow me to express my appreciation to you for reading these articles. m any have reached out or stopped in with kind remarks and thoughtful questions; I am truly humbled by your continued interest and support. Second, a big thank you to my wife and editor, Gwen. Trust me, without her, these articles would not read as well as they do. And third, I’d like to thank those in the wine world: those who enjoy wine, those who sell wine, and of course, those who make wine. December is the month of Top 10 lists: top news and sports stories, top movies, top music, etc. For this week’s article, I’ve prepared my Top 10 list of new-to-me wines in 2024.
Though last year I did it later in the month, I thought it might help to have it earlier for wine gifting and event planning.
10. OZV Old Vine Zinfandel (Lodi, California)
I love a good Zinfandel, and the OZV is a very reasonably priced and excellent example. This wine is bold and intense with the fruit flavors of ripe blackberry and strawberry with notes of tobacco leaf, smoke, and spices. It is a food-friendly wine that is full-bodied with medium acidity. It is approachable and smooth with a rich mouthfeel and notes of vanilla bean and cinnamon. Zinfandel is among c alifornia’s best varietals. Try this one and find out why.
9. Tokoeka Estate Pink Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand)
Yep, I said Pink Sauvignon blanc. This unique wine is a light ruby pink color with hints of tropical fruits, raspberry, and cherry on the palate. The soft minerality leads to a lovely rounded and smooth finish. This is a delightful, year-round wine.
This wine is made from 100% hand-harvested Tempranillo. After
fermentation, the wine is racked into American and French oak barrels where it spends 18 months aging in the winery’s underground cellars. The wine is then transferred back to the tanks for five months of natural settling before filtering and bottling. Then, it spends a minimum of 18-24 months in the bottle aging in cellars before being labeled and released for sale. This is a classic rioja reserva with flavors of balsamic wood and red berries with a long finish.
7. Balletto Russian River Pinot Noir (Russian River, California) Vineyards of the russian river Valley arguably produce california’s best Pinot Noir; balletto is a perfect example. This family-owned and operated vineyard is dedicated to sustainable agriculture and environmental responsibility. The wine opens with dark fruit and spice and continues through a velvety mid-palate that maintains its balance with light tannins and acidity at the finish. Pinot Noir is one of my favorite varietals and I love this wine. A must-try.
6. Prà Otto Soave Classico (Soave Classico, Veneto, Italy)
Soave classico is made from Garganega grapes and is refreshing with aromas of juniper and honeysuckle and flavors of ripe apricot with an excellent minerality. Graziano Prà had a calling to become a vine grower. This is one of Italy’s finest white wines and is getting tons of praise from respected wine critics.
5. Monte da Ravasqueira Encantado Red (Alentejo, Portugal)
This awesome wine is a Portuguese red blend of Syrah, Touriga Franca, and Alicante b ouschet. If we have had a wine conversation, you likely know that I love Portuguese wines with Alicante b ouschet. encantado is a rich, full-bodied, well-balanced red wine that is smooth and intense. You will be shocked at how inexpensive this wine is! The art on the label makes this an awesome gift for the red wine lover on your list.
Negroamaro may be the best red wine you’ve never heard of. The corte Ottone is soft and well-balanced with a bouquet of berries and cherries and a smooth, velvety palate of dark fruit and light baking spices. Again, the price is unbelievable, and the packaging makes this wine gift-worthy.
3. La Gerla Poggio Gli Angeli Sangiovese (Tuscany, Italy)
La Gerla is organically farmed at a family-owned winery in Tuscany. Sangiovese is the most widely grown red grape in Tuscany and is the backbone of chianti classico wines. La Gerla has all the great flavor characteristics and quality of a great chianti, is 100% Sangiovese (a higher concentration than most chianti classico wines), and at a lower price. Next time you have an Italian dinner, pick up a bottle of this wine.
2. Château Paloumey HautMédoc (Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France)
This classic bordeaux is cabernet Sauvignon blended with merlot, Petit Verdot and c abernet Franc. This wine has flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and cherry with notes of blueberry, cocoa, and coffee. This is a red wine lover’s wine. chateau Paloumey is also an organic vineyard.
And finally, my number one wine pick from 2024 :
1. Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray Cuvee Silex (Vouvray, Loire Valley, France)
Gwen and I vacationed in the Loire Valley this summer and had the pleasure of visiting Vigneau- chevreau during our stay. We tasted wine with christoph Vigneau who, with his brother, owns and operates the winery. Vouvray has one primary white grape: chenin b lanc. The cuvee Silex is 100% chenin b lanc and is an extraordinary example of why this region is world-renowned. This wine is organic, vegan-friendly, and biodynamically farmed. Vouvray wines are very dry with a wonderful floral scent. The flavors are quince, apple, and citrus with a flint-stone minerality that the region’s terroir is famous for. This is the first year I have selected a white wine as my number one. Trust me, it’s worthy of the spot!
There you have it, my top wines of 2024. I hope you consider some of these as you complete your holiday shopping or fill your wine rack before the holidays. You won’t be disappointed. As always, contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com or visit the store with questions or comments. 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.
Billy Walton Band joins Low Cut Connie at Anchor Rock Club
Saturday December 148:00 pm - Tickets $25.
What a double bill! billy Walton, one of the tristate area's busiest, most popular rock guitarists, who fronts high-energy group b illy Walton band, joins Philly favorites Low cut connie for a pre- christmas banger at Anchor rock club, 247 S. New York Ave., Saturday, Dec. 14. Doors: 7 p.m. Show: 8 p.m. Info: (609) 808-4990 or visit anchorrockclub.com. The show is being presented by WXPN.
"We’ve built our touring career via independent venues and the Anchor rock club in Atlantic city is one of the coolest," says Walton. "We look forward to supporting Low c ut connie, a truly unique act out of the Philadelphia area. Those looking for exciting entertainment will definitely get their money’s worth!"
"We're always seeking to perfect our formula of rock/soul/blues, wrapped in psychedelic jams," adds bWb bassist, William Paris.
Anchor rock club attendees that night can expect to hear some of the newer bW b tracks - "Knife In m y b ack," "I c an't Tell," and "Here I come" – as well as familiar bWb favorites, " mountain," " confusion," and "One In A m illion." With the powerful double-lead vocals of billy Walton and Destinee m onroe, these tracks (written by Walton and m onroe) are fresh and catchy. The billy Walton band have done over forty tours of europe and Germany, performing there each fall after their always-busy Jersey Shore summer season committments.
heritage of the active Jersey Shore music scene, and found its groove when b illy connected with bassist William Paris. It was the arrival of vocalist extraordinaire Destinee m onroe, however, that helped pro -
The b illy Walton b and consists of b illy Walton (lead guitar-vocals); Destinee monroe (guitar-vocals); William Paris (bass-vocals); eric Safka (keyboards-vocals); and Dave m oore (drums).
" billy Walton's reputation stands out, even among those in the vibrant New Jersey club scene." - Atlantic city Press
Formed in 2007, the billy Walton band grew out of the rich musical
pel the group to a whole new level of popularity.
Fronted by guitar wiz and colorful guitarist-vocalist billy Walton (Southside Johnny, Little Steven, Gary US bonds) and talented vocalist-guitarist Destinee m onroe, the b illy Walton band are renowned for their electric, high-energy shows and have a solid, dedicated fan base which continues to grow daily. In addition to blues rock fans, the jam-band scene has also embraced bWb
Billy Walton. Photo by John Loreaux
Billy Walton Band. Photo by John Loreaux
Keep your home safe this holiday season
Real Estate Matters
By Elisa Jo Eagan
The holidays are without question a very busy time for most of us. We’re running around shopping for gifts for our loved ones, preparing big meals for family and friends and breaking out the ladder to string up festive lights and decorations.
While all of these things can be enjoyable in their own way, they can also be dangerous as our minds are often wandering to remember if we actually turned the stove off or if we locked the house full of gifts.
b e sure to keep yourself, your loved ones and potential buyers safe and secure in your home this holiday season by following these safety tips:
Fight Fire With Fire
You don’t need Smokey b ear to tell you that the majority of home
fires are preventable. Fires are a huge issue during this time of year for a variety of reasons, many of which are avoidable.
Set a timer:
Sometimes in the rush of cooking a big holiday meal, it can be difficult to remember what you put in the oven and when, especially if you are trying to get dressed and ready for guests at the same time. be sure to set multiple timers – one for when the food is done and another for a few minutes after, just in case you miss the first one.
Fireproof your tree:
If you are considering purchasing an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled as “fireproof.” You might not think that a fake tree would burn as easily as a real one, but that is far from the truth. For real trees, prevent string lights from heating up the branches by ensuring your tree is adequately hydrated and keeping lights toward the outer branches.
Protect Children and Pets
The holidays are a magical time of year for kids, making them even more prone to distracted behavior. In
Medical Reserve Corps Volunteer
the excitement of helping you decorate or bake cookies, it is easy to lose track of what they are getting into. This goes for four-legged friends, too.
Formulate a holiday playbook:
If you lay down ground rules before any holiday activity (and make them part of the fun), kids are more likely to listen. For instance, avoid accidental burns or messes by having kids design their cookies on paper and pencil while you handle the mixer and stove.
Keep things out of reach:
Holiday decorations like candles and poinsettias are great for making our homes look festive, but they can pose a threat to curious kids and pets. be sure to keep items like these well out of reach or tucked away, especially while you are busy wrapping presents or baking.
Remember Those in Need
Homelessness can happen to anyone. It happens here, too. Please join me as we at balsley Losco realty partner with the Atlantic city res -
cue m ission to help local families in need. We are hosting a Winter coat, clothing (new and gently used) and Non-Perishable Food Drive at our office, located at 1630 New road in Northfield, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15.
To donate, contact me at 609703-0432. Thank you for your generosity in helping to make a difference in our community.
For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan "The Real Estate Godmother" (609)703-0432 and Remember..."There's No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!"
By Bruce Klauber
Among the dozens of celebrity photographs that line the walls of White House Subs, there are two that visitors might not recognize, unless they’re drummers or jazz fans. Drummers Harvey mason and Peter erskine are there for two reasons: They are both South Jersey natives, and they are both among the greatest percussionists in jazz history.
m ason was born in Atlantic city in 1947 and first began studying orchestral drumming when he was 7. While a student at Atlantic city High School, he joined the band and acquired his first set of drums when he was 14. He began listening carefully to jazz drummers like b uddy rich and Louie bellson, and brushed up on his classical technique by becoming
a member of the American Legion Drum corps in Atlantic city, and then brigantine’s Seahorse Lancers Drum and bugle corps. He started playing jazz professionally with an organ trio at two famed Atlantic city jazz clubs: The Wonder Garden and The Jockey club.
After graduating high school, m ason wanted to continue his music education, becoming a student at the iconic b erklee college of m usic in b oston before transferring to the New england conservatory of m usic on a full scholarship. by this point there was not a form of music that the young Harvey mason could not play perfectly.
His first big-name jazz jobs after graduation were with the legendary pianists erroll Garner and George Shearing. These two artists were straight-ahead, traditional jazz performers. Though m ason played beautifully with them, his ability to play almost any style led to his associ -
ation with funk groups led by Donald byrd, Herbie Hancock (manson played on Hancock’s famed “Head Hunters” recording), Grover Washington, Jr., George benson, and many more.
From this point on, although mason still played live engagements from time to time, his biggest contributions were made in the recording studio with everyone from Nancy
Wilson to Quincy Jones, and on dozens of film scores including “The color Purple,” “The Fabulous baker boys,” and “The Wiz.”
m ason has won several Grammys, received an honorary doctorate in music from b erklee, and for those who keep track of such things, was the drummer in the orchestra that played for the Academy Awards telecast for 25 years.
Lest anyone dismiss mason simply as a “studio guy,” his contributions through the years were more than enough to impress one of the hardest-to-impress drummers in history, b uddy rich. rich always appreciated the work of those he deemed to be original, and he often cited mason as an artist who copied no one.
“There's only a few young guys like Harvey m ason who have true identity,” rich told jazz journalist Les Tompkins. Louie b ellson added, “I know he’s done his homework. He’s paid his dues.” endorsements don’t get much better than that.
Peter erskine, born in Somers Point in 1954, also started playing drums at a young age. He was 4 years old when he first picked up a pair of sticks and began studying with Atlantic city drummer and 500 club bandleader Johnny civera. A mere two years later he was good enough to impress none other than Gene Krupa.
In his widely-used drum instruction book, “Drum essentials Volume 3,” erskine told the story:
“When I was six years old, I finally had the opportunity to meet drumming legend Gene Krupa. He was appearing at the Steel Pier Ballroom in Atlantic City, and my oldest sister, Lois (who was 15 at the time), took me to see him play. When she saw where his dressing room was located, she took me in tow and knocked on his door. He was alone in the room and answered, kindly inviting us in. She did a short song and dance routine about how I was this terrific young drummer and Gene finally said, as he handed me a pair of drumsticks and pointed to a chair, ‘Show me what you can do, kid.’ I had never played on a wooden chair before, but I gulped, grabbed the stocks and fumbled something on the seat of the chair’s surface with
↘Continued on 78
At the age of 6, Peter Erskine had a life-changing moment when he met and performed with drumming legend Gene Krupa on the Steel Pier.
Mr. Krupa’s drumsticks. When I looked up at him, Gene Krupa smiled, nodded his head and said, ‘Yeah, kid…yeah!’ Gene played a knockout set at that afternoon matinee, and gave this kid drummer a memorable moment he would never forget.”
by way of that auspicious beginning, it was clear that Peter e rskine was headed for big things.
After graduation from Interlochen Arts Academy in michigan, followed by more percussion study at Indiana University, the 18-year-old drummer joined the big band of the legendary Stan Kenton, who had by then reformed his big band, populated it with a group of enthusiastic youngsters, and took to the road again after a long layoff.
skine’s forte is live performance. Just a sampling of the artists he’s backed through the years include c hick corea, Diana Krall, randy and michael brecker, Steely Dan, Joni mitchell, and even Seth macFarlane.
He’s also run his own record label, was nominated for nine Grammys and has won two, has written 14 books,
Atlantic City native Harvey Mason, known for his ability to play almost any style, has performed with funk groups led by Donald Byrd, Herbie Hancock, Grover Washington, Jr., George Benson, and many more.
After four years with Kenton, he joined the band of another historic jazz figure, trumpeter maynard Ferguson, where he spent two years. After six years drumming in what were, by and large, traditional musical settings, erskine joined one of the most important and influential groups in jazz, the genre-breaking Weather r eport. His partner in Weather report’s rhythm section was one of the most important bassists in jazz history, Jaco Pastorious.
After two years and five albums with Weather report, he joined another ground-breaking group, jazz fusionists Steps Ahead. Though he has played on some film tracks and has recorded dozens of albums, er-
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. ↘Continued from
and serves on the faculties of the Thornton School of m usic and the University of Southern california. Peter erskine and Harvey mason are two incomparable musical giants. After all, you don’t get your picture on the wall of White House Subs for nothing.
J e s s H i m m e l M e d i u m s h i p & O r a c l e R e a d i n
W e a r e a c o l l e c t i v e o f h e a l i n g a r t i s t s o f f e r i n g a w i d e v a r i e t y o f h e a l i n g s e r v i c e s a n d e d u c a t i o n i n c l u d i n g A s t r o l o g y , A r o m a t h e r a p y , C o a c h i n g , R e a d i n g s , O r g o n e E n e r g y P i e c e s , O n l i n e / I n - P e r s o n C l a s s e s a n d W o r k s h o p s , H e a l i n g C i r c l e s a n d L I V E R e a d i n g s e v e r y T u e s d a y a t 1 1 : 3 0 a m o n o u r F A C E B O O K P A G E !
How to crush your health & fitness dreams step by step
Empowering Women
By Rachel Guevara
Setting health and fitness goals can feel overwhelming, especially if you're just starting. b ut here's the secret: achieving your dreams doesn’t happen overnight—it’s about taking small, intentional steps. Like learning to crawl before you walk, walk before you run, and run before you sprint, progress is built on a strong foundation. Let’s break it down and get you on the path to success.
The first step is being honest with yourself. It’s tempting to aim for dramatic changes, like losing 30 pounds in a month or running a marathon without training. However, setting unattainable goals can lead to frustration and burnout. Instead, focus on what’s realistic for your body, schedule, and lifestyle. For example, if you’re new to exercise, your initial goal might be to move your body
for 20 minutes a day, three times a week. Over time, as you build stamina, you can adjust and challenge yourself further.
Journaling is a fantastic way to clarify your goals and track your progress. begin by writing down your “why”—the deeper reason behind your health and fitness journey. m aybe it’s improving your energy, being a role model for your kids, or boosting your confidence. Next, break your goals into categories: short-term goals (4-6 weeks):
These should be specific and actionable, like drinking 64 ounces of water daily or attending two fitness classes per week. m edium-term goals (3-6 months): These build on your progress, such as running a 5K or increasing your strength by lifting heavier weights. Long-term goals (1 year or more): These represent your ultimate aspirations, like hitting a target weight, completing a triathlon, or maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Achieving goals is easier when you have accountability. Share your plans with a trusted friend or family member who will cheer you on. even better, find a coach who specializes
in health and fitness. A coach will not only design a plan tailored to your needs but also keep you motivated, offer expert advice, and celebrate your victories with you. For example, at Lift & Glitz Training Studio, our coaches help clients set realistic, personalized goals. Whether you’re looking to tone up, improve your endurance, or build confidence, having a professional by your side ensures you’re on the right track. celebrate every milestone along the way, no matter how small. Did you complete your first week of workouts? That’s a win. Did you resist the temptation to skip your session? An -
other win. These small victories add up, boosting your confidence and reinforcing positive habits.
r emember, progress isn’t linear. You’ll have ups and downs, but staying consistent and patient is key. So grab a journal, reflect on your goals, and take that first step. Your future self will thank you. With realistic expectations, a clear plan, and the right support, you’ll not only set your goals— you’ll crush them. Now let’s get started!
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.
Rachel
A cautionary tale about holiday shopping
By Bill Quain
Most people make a big mistake approaching the holiday season. They go into it thinking they are prepared: big mistake! Here’s what happens. many companies make a large percentage of their sales, and subsequently their profits, in the few short weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s eve. However, unlike you, those companies have been preparing all year long. They’ve studied you, followed you on social media, and tracked your buying habits, just to figure out what it will take to sell you something.
And what have you been doing?
In last week’s column, I warned you that you were not trained for the Turkey Thursday to black Friday marathon event. Now, if you weren’t in shape for those 48 hours, what do you think your
chances are for a six-week super marathon? Are you beginning to understand just how woefully unprepared you are?
Why is it called “Black Friday”?
According to Alexa, the term black Friday originated in 1929 to describe the terrible Stock market crash. However, in 1961, Philadelphia police began to use it to describe the crowded stores, and even more crowded highways, as people took advantage of the day off to begin their holiday shopping.
b y the way, I’ve heard it used to describe the day when many retailers “got in the black,” meaning that most of their profits came between b lack Friday and New Year’s eve.
For most Americans, it’s “Red” Friday!
If this shopping stretch is good news for retailers, it’s terrible news for holiday shoppers. even if you are cautious all year long and carefully watch your budget, it’s difficult to keep your money in your pockets. While you might think it’s because you really wanted to buy all those gifts, you have to understand that every retailer has been targeting you. They are all planning to be at the top of your list to compete for the budget that you may have set for yourself.
“Apply for our card and save.”
A week or so ago, N bc News ran a segment called “New Warning Issued for In-Store credit cards.” We all know what happens. You go to the check-out counter and the clerk says, “You can save 20%, if you get one of our credit cards.” Well… you’re no dummy! 20% is 20% right? In fact, you may say to the clerk, “Okay, keep this stuff here, I’m going to get some more items!”
Don’t do it! The N bc report stated that some in-store cards have interest rates as high as 36%. That’s insane! but here is the worst news: Those instore cards aren’t targeted at high-end buyers. For example, the three stores that N bc specifically named are b ig Lots, Old Navy and Petco. Not exactly bloomingdales! Imagine running up a $1,000 credit card bill and paying $360 in interest if you had kept that balance for a year! If you got a 20% discount when you opened the card, that was only $200. The math adds up in the store’s favor!
Make a list. Check it once!
Look, Santa may be checking his list twice, but you should make your list once and then stick to it! Don’t start adding on purchases whenever you see an advertisement that was created just to get you to make an impulse purchase. Impulse purchases can often come in the form of upgrades, and those are everywhere! You can’t even get away from them when you buy online. Think about: “People who bought this, also bought…” and other impulse gimmicks.
You can’t beat credit card companies.
Do you think you are smarter and more experienced than a credit card company? As Dave ramsey points out, if you are so smart, why do credit card banks own all those big stadiums? They are buying those sponsored “naming rights” because they are making bundles of cash from shoppers. And when do we shop the most? You guessed it – from black Friday through Dec. 31.
This year, enjoy many happy returns.
“ but bill, I take a lot of things back.” OK, now you’ve just extended the season! The stores know you are going to return purchases and gifts. They love it when you do that!
Let’s say you bring back a $100 item. Do they have the customer service area for returns at the front of the store? No, it’s way in the back, almost hidden. m eanwhile, you have to walk past all those other things in the store. And guess what? It turns out they are on sale! And, when you walk up to customer service to do the exchange, and you have another $100 worth of stuff, what does the clerk say? “If you open a store credit card,
SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK
BENCH
by Bill Quain
we’ll give you 20% off.” Hey, at least you can visit your money the next time you go to a stadium.
I’ll pay my credit card off.
OK, so you pay your credit cards off every month, no matter what. congratulations! b ut what if the unexpected happens – like christmas comes on Dec. 25 this year? (Another Dave ramsey favorite saying.) Studies show that the average person spends 17% more when they use a credit card. Here’s the thing. You can say you are going to pay those credit cards off each month, but something is bound to happen. Then wham! You miss a month.
Why tempt fate? Instead of buying more stuff than you intended, and paying it off almost every month, why not try a new plan? create a list and stick to it! If you do that, you never have to worry about surprises. It’s the “surprises” that get you, and “Oh no, I overspent again this year” is no surprise!
Stop getting trained. Start training yourself!
All the training you ever need is on YouTube. I recommend starting with Dave ramsey’s video: “Why can’t I Use credit cards If I Pay Them Off every m onth?”
In the episode, Dave isn’t even talking about store cards! You’ll either love this episode or hate this episode, and it will all depend on whether you are serious about sticking to that shopping list this holiday season.
Let me know your thoughts! As always, you can reach me at bill@quain. com. And 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.
Facing the big chill in the garden
Let It Grow
By Tammy Thornton
Well, we have had a good run. After enjoying a warm October and an unseasonably nice November, we must face the reality of cold weather. In the garden, we have finally experienced what’s known as the “killing frost” or “hard frost”. The first fall hard frost is a significant event, because it denotes the end of the growing season as we know it. Some tender plants can withstand a light frost, but, as the morbid name implies, a killing frost is more damaging. A hard frost will kill annuals and other plants that had survived earlier light frosts.
Until now, South Jersey gardeners had been marveling at an extended season, with tomato plants and other vegetables and flowers continuing to produce. In my own garden, nasturtiums, impatiens, and roses
had continued to bloom right through Thanksgiving, despite cool weather. b ut sustained temperatures in the twenties are a different story. You may notice limp stems, shriveled leaves, and flowers that have turned brown.
Fortunately, beneath the earth, life continues, and not all that looks dead is truly lost. Herbaceous perennials die back to the ground, almost forgotten, but their roots, rhizomes, tubers, bulbs, and corms are storing food underground for plants that will resurface in spring. There have been many different years when my camellia had been full of buds until a cold snap. Then, the leaves shriveled and newly opened flowers turned brown, and things looked dire. b ut as soon as the cold front passed, the leaves unfurled and the camellia went on its happy way, despite losing a few flowers.
However, not all plants are so lucky. What can we do to help our plants survive “the big chill”? Tender perennials can live multiple years, but are native to warmer climates and will
usually succumb to the frigid temperatures. If you like to gamble, you can take your chances and see if they make it through winter. It’s always a nice surprise when I find a gardenia or other plant that has unexpectedly survived another year. Those of us closer to the shore can have better luck than our friends to the west and north. A few degrees can make a big difference. Some parts of your garden can offer more protection than others. Plants close to the house or protected by a fence will be able to survive better than those that are fully exposed. Of course, you don’t want to take chances with a special plant. before the first frost, bring your prized tender plants indoors to overwinter. Taking cuttings can be a more manageable way to preserve a piece of the plant if you have limited space indoors. Some plants need a period of dormancy and can rest in a cool garage or basement. Potted plants are particularly susceptible to cold temperatures. Depending on the type of plant, these plants should be stored in a garage or brought indoors. You can also move hardy potted plants to a covered porch for an extra layer of protection. but ideally, they should be planted in the ground in late summer or early fall to give the roots time to establish before the weather gets cold. even perennials that normally survive outdoors can be damaged by a hard frost. The fluctuation of
freezing and thawing can be more harmful to a plant than consistent low temperatures. Use mulch to protect the roots of your perennials and help regulate the soil temperatures. This will also help protect the soil and plants from heaving, a problem when the soil cracks and the plant lifts, exposing the plant’s roots to extreme temperatures. Leaves can also add a layer of protection to your plants. Just be sure that flat leaves such as maples are not smothering ground covers and herbaceous perennials. You will want to pull the leaves away in early spring as you see plants with new growth (such as spring bulbs or peonies) emerging from the soil. believe it or not, a blanket of snow can also help insulate plants. As an added benefit, snow can supply nutrients such as nitrogen to the ground, giving it the nickname “poor man’s fertilizer”.
Though you might be longing for a return to summer weather, your garden welcomes a time of rest. Some plants benefit from winter dormancy, and others – like tulips – would not bloom at all if they didn’t have a pe -
riod of cold. certain vegetables, like kale, taste sweeter after a light frost. And beneath the ground, a whole world exists in a flurry of activity, preparing for its spring extravaganza.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
Retirement journey part 2: the early stage of retirement
By Eric Reich
Last week, we touched on things to consider in the years leading up to retirement. In my opinion, that stage is the most important stage because it sets up what your retirement may look like. This week, I want to cover the next phase, which is the early part of your retirement. To refresh your memory, this can include the first 5-7 years of retirement. early-stage retirement frequently catches retirees by surprise if they have not planned for it. Why? Simply because of the overwhelming decisions that have to be made if you didn’t make them during the pre-retirement phase. For example, what will you do with your time? Where will you live? What are your expenses?
All of those considerations, plus the following, need to be decided and managed in the early stage of
The
retirement. make a plan for managing these aspects:
1. Added expenses
The early stage of retirement is like the honeymoon phase of a relationship. everything is new and exciting. You are no longer constrained by a work schedule, and every day is Saturday. While this is certainly the exciting part, it doesn’t come without drawbacks. b eing able to go out to dinner any night you want because you don’t have to wake up early for work tomorrow may mean that you are spending far more than ever before on entertainment expenses. The same holds true for travel. No longer limited to two weeks a year of vacation time, perhaps your trips last a little longer and happen a little more frequently. All of this newfound freedom can add significant expenses to your intended budget. We suggest for those planning on enjoying this type of lifestyle in the early stage of retirement that you plan on spending 10-20% more than you previously did before you retired. This is counter to much of the advice out there that suggests that you only need 60-80% of your pre-retirement income once you retire. I’ve been a specialist in
INVESTMENT PROPERTY OWNERS
retirement for 27 years now, and I can tell you that needing such a small amount of income rarely ever happens.
2. Medicare
To say that the world of medicare planning is confusing is an understatement.
This is why I strongly suggest meeting with a m edicare expert when trying to decide what plans to pick. m edicare Advantage plans may save you money now but could become more costly later in life at a time when you use them the most. by contrast, supplemental plans can cost more today but may save you a lot in the latter stages of retirement. If you don’t know the difference, then you really need to talk with an expert. m edical insurance and healthcare expenses can ultimately end up being some of your largest expenses in retirement.
3. Your health
We often have grand plans about what we intend to do once we retire, but sadly, our bodies don’t always go along with those plans. Staying in shape and focusing on your health, while important at every stage of life, becomes critical in retirement if you intend to live an active life when you retire. The biggest factor I see in people’s retirement dreams not coming to fruition is their health often prevents them from living out their retirement dreams.
Planning properly for the added expenses in the early years of retirement can go a long way toward making your retirement as enjoyable as possible. Failure to do so can lead to less money to go around,
and therefore tradeoffs in what you want to do. To me, I don’t want to have to pick and choose what I get to do in retirement. my idea of an enjoyable retirement is to be able to do whatever I want, whenever I want, as often as I want. Whatever your ideal retirement looks like, plan properly to make it a reality.
Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLc (Kestra IS), member FIN r A/SIPc Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLc (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. reich Asset management, LLc is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLc or Kestra Advisory Services, LLc . This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. To view form crS visit https:// bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.
Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations.
Tis The Season To Do
ASBURYAVENUE
CASINO CHURCH DECORATING DINING HAMILTONMALL MARGATESHOPPING MOVIES ROADTRIP SKATING SMITHVILLE TVCLASSICS VOLUNTEER WORSHIP
Answers on page 78
SUDOKU
Solution on page 90
ACROSS
1. *Key farm-to-table attribute
6. Goldfish or koi
10. excessively abundant
14. Obelus, pl.
15. black and white treat
16. revise for publication
17. Swamp plant
18. "Saved by the ____"
19. Guilty, e.g.
20. Looking at
22. Silage storage
24. building add-on
25. James ____ Jones
27. baloney
29. *____ varieties
33. Greek letter N, pl.
34. caterer's coffee pots
35. *Key component of manure
37. Lady's wrap
41. Fleur-de-____
42. Accustom
44. river in Spain
45. Sailing vessel with two masts
48. evoke emotion
49. 2016 animated musical
50. Female sib
52. *____ breeds
54. *Lettuce units
57. ____ well ____ someone
58. Small one in a large machine
59. Per person
61. Peace of mind
65. Os in XOXO
67. Takes to court
69. Away from harbor
70. biblical twin
71. Final notice
72. *Food ____, as in distance
73. Shade-loving plant
74. "____ a soul"
75. Game outcome
DOWN
1. Leave in the dust
2. Do as directed
3. relinquish
4. capital of Algeria
5. relating to spleen
6. *corn holder
7. bellicose deity
8. Archeologist's find
9. *"The Omnivore's Dilemma" author
10. One in a set
11. Lazybones
12. *____-to-table, farm-to-table alternative
13. And others, for short
21. Search blindly
23. cross to bear
26. Duck-like divers
28. Holy Wednesday
29. a.k.a. Dr. robert bruce banner
30. It's between Ohio and Ontario
31. research facil.
32. Oral cavity
36. Snooped
38. "Summertime" of Porgy and bess, e.g.
39. POTUS' West one
40. Private theater box
43. computer message
46. *Harvest subscription, acr.
47. *Honey-producing facility
49. Astringent drug
51. *What's in ____?
53. I-resembling supports
54. canine foe
55. Daytime moth
56. Aqua-lung
58. *One who runs the show
60. George or Louis to Kate and William
62. capital on a fjord
63. Nostradamus, e.g.
64. Alleviate
66. *"Full ____," on a seed package
68. Wilbur's home
THEME: FARM TO TABLE
They wowed them in Vegas, but not Atlantic City
By Bruce Klauber
No one knows for sure just how many celebrities have graced the stages of Atlantic city’s hotel/ casinos since the 1978 inception of legalized gambling. For talent buyers who worked in Atlantic city during the first several years of shore casinos, the main talent pool was comprised of performers who successfully played Las Vegas, so it would be natural to assume that almost every big star who played Vegas eventually made it to Atlantic city. b ut that is simply not true, as a number of showbiz giants who worked regularly in Sin city never made it to the Jersey Shore.
There are several reasons for this, including money and the fact that a headliner who might have been big in Vegas might not necessarily wow audiences in Atlantic city. Some performers just felt there was no need to “work the shore.”
In the singular instance of elvis Presley, the reason why The King never appeared in Atlantic city had to do with poor decision-making, plain and simple. Although Steel Pier owner George Hamid had the fore -
sight to book rockers bill Haley and his comets as early as 1955, he reportedly dropped the ball when it came to elvis. The ofttold story was that in 1957, the first year of certifiable “ elvis Fever,” Presley manager colonel Tom Parker wanted $3,000 more than George Hamid was willing to pay and Hamid refused to budge. Hence, there was no King at the Queen of resorts and there never would be.
Filmmaker and comedian Woody Allen, believe it or not, played c aesars Palace in Las Vegas in 1966. Allen, at the time, had quite the following as a stand-up comic via many club dates, best-selling comedy albums and appearances on “The Tonight Show.”
In an interview with writer richard Zoglin, Allen said the Vegas offer was difficult to refuse.
“It was an achievement,” he told Zoglin. “ because I’d started out in the Village and people thought, ‘Oh, this guy will never get out of the Village.’ Then when I was playing uptown places like the blue Angel, they said he’d never get out of New York. So it was an achievement for me to go into places like caesars in Las Vegas’.”
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While he got good reviews and did decent business, Allen was disappointed that he didn’t sell out and offered to give back part of his salary.
“I felt guilty taking their money,” he told Zoglin. No, Woody Allen never made it to Atlantic city stages.
Nor did television star c arol burnett, who appeared in Las Vegas during the summer of 1962. She had just come off winning an emmy for her work in Garry m oore’s cbS variety show, which was enough to get her a booking at the Sands. The show, highlighted by burnett’s famed sketches, her underrated singing and some of the characters she played on television, actually set an advance-sale record at the Sands.
Sad to say, “The First Lady of Song,” ella Fitzgerald, never appeared on an Atlantic city casino stage. She
did appear at the Flamingo and caesars in Las Vegas, but other than an appearance at the Warner Theatre in the mid-1950s and 1989 when she was awarded the key to the city, she never made it to a shore casino stage.
Actor, dancer and comic Danny Kaye performed at Las Vegas’ Desert Inn in 1967 and the International Hotel two years later. Kaye did appear at the Steel Pier in 1953 and was a part of the m iss America Pageant in 1958, but he never appeared in an Atlantic city casino.
Singers Patti Page and e artha Kitt, as well as television star and comic monologist Danny Thomas, all played at Paul “Skinny” D’Amato’s 500 club in the 1950s and were frequent headliners in Vegas. Although all three were active long after casinos were legalized in Atlantic city, none were ever booked on a casino main stage here.
Legendary songstress Peggy Lee was a hit in Las Vegas for years at venues like caesars, the International, the Frontier and the riviera, but for whatever reason she only made it to Atlantic city once, and that appearance wasn’t on a main stage. Lee came to resorts International’s Superstar Lounge on Aug. 9, 1984, specifically to shoot a video which is almost impossible to find today. She was great that night, but she never again appeared in Atlantic city.
A disagreement over money prevented Elvis Presley from performing on the Steel Pier in 1957.
Perry Como did shows in Las Vegas casino hotels from time to time, but his only Atlantic City show was on the Steel Pier in 1944, long before the casino era.
crooner Perry como performed in Las Vegas from time to time. He recorded a live album at the International Hotel in 1970, and in 1976, broadcast a live television special from the Las Vegas Hilton. but other than a Steel Pier appearance in 1944, como never set foot – professionally at least – in Atlantic city.
Then there were those who, for whatever reason, were deemed unsuitable for casino bookings in Atlantic city. Perhaps they asked for too much money or the talent buyers believed they wouldn’t attract a substantial audience, but singer eartha
Kitt and pianist/comedian Victor borge were never booked into a casino. Kitt did work at the 500 club in the 1950s and borge appeared at the Warner Theatre in 1956, but that was the extent of their Ac appearances.
In the late 1970s, Doris Day was reportedly made a one-of-a-kind offer by several casino owners. If Day would agree to do a one-hour show – remember, she was a terrific singer – she could name her price and dictate the time and the venue. There was also talk about a Frank Sinatra/ Doris Day booking. It’s been said that Day almost agreed, but got cold feet at the last moment. believe it or not, she was afraid that no one would be interested enough to come to see her.
There is one performer who would have, without a doubt, been a blockbuster act in an Atlantic city casino. He was renowned and beloved throughout the world and was a proven attraction in Las Vegas at the Tropicana, the International and other venues along the strip. In Atlantic city, he packed them in at the Steel Pier in the summers of 1965 and 1967. Sadly, he left us in 1971, seven years before resorts International opened as the city’s first hotel/casino. His name was Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong and experiencing his artistry and charisma on a hotel/casino stage would have been something.
By Ursula Duffy
Horoscopes for Dec. 5-11
♈ Aries: The road ahead regarding how your inner child is intertwined with your childhood experience is under construction. Detours, new designs and improvements take caution and consideration. Welcome a slower pace and healing opportunities.
♉ Taurus: Your comfort zone is getting a remodel. Family ties, home and deeply rooted patterns to which you may be unconsciously attached will surface for review. Willingness to bend is an important lesson.
♊ Gemini: Sometimes bonds to things are created from nostalgia or emotion. The ties that bind come undone when one’s best interests are no longer being served. The layers of undoing reveal that which requires attention.
♋ Cancer: easing tension in your body and finding peace will be ongoing themes. mindfulness of tendencies to lash out at others, and even yourself, can be a helpful method to soothe stress. Acknowledge and feel your emotions.
♌ Leo: Your energy level may feel lower than usual for a little while. extra downtime and rest, whether intentional or not, are essential to getting replenishment and clearing your vessel. Steep in the pause and use the time for healing and self-reflection.
♍ Virgo: Hidden forces within yourself or from outside influences will be revealed
in perfect timing. cutting the cords to all that works against you is a proactive way to ensure even greater potential for your goals and endeavors.
♎ Libra: m omentum around future plans and career shifts may be slowing down. clarity and a more balanced approach can be advantageous results of slower speeds. Although it can feel frustrating, do your best to welcome the invitation.
♏ Scorpio: To what and to whom you invest your time deserves greater scrutiny. Pump the brakes on education, travel and work commitments so you can feel and sense through the balance of your efforts and returns.
♐ Sagittarius: Periods of soul-searching happen to help deepen the connection to oneself. Don’t overcommit to social engagements this season. Gift yourself quality time alone to co-create what’s unfolding within.
♑ Capricorn: Your own intimate needs may usually be put on the back burner. It’s time to redirect your focus and attention, especially to the terrain of your emotions. consider the worth of relationships that aren’t wholly fulfilling.
♒ Aquarius: The strength of your relationship with your closest friends and partners goes hand in hand with your health and vitality. more focus on your own health and intentionally filling up your own cup may be necessary for a while.
♓ Pisces: Your creative energy may decrease and feel more like a babbling brook. The reduction in flow creates more space for presence in the moment and perhaps revisiting shelved projects with new intentions.
Weekly astrology summary:
The momentum in our lives gets another dose of pulling back the reins with the
next mars retrograde beginning this week (Dec. 6 – Feb. 23). mars retrogrades can feel like hitting every red light or encountering unexpected roadblocks and detours on a journey to a destination. They occur for approximately 2-2 ½ months every 2-2 ½ years. The last one was in the fall/winter of 2022/2023. This one will be concurrent with the mercury retrograde that began on Nov. 25 for about a week, so the energy may feel extra frustrating, disruptive and stagnant. These are the best times to take advantage of and recognize the gifts in pausing, slowing down and insights gained from releasing control. One of the coolest things about mars retrogrades is visual. As mars approaches earth more closely during the retrogrades, it gets bigger in the night sky and rises in the east around 9 p.m. Look for the red planet as it grows bigger and brighter over the next few months. Jupiter is also at its brightest this month, rising in the east just after sunset. As the night grows longer, and we experience a slower pace, the visual cosmic connection to the planets and stars is a stunner! See the above horoscope for your rising sign for more specific information. If you’re unsure what your rising sign is, you can learn more in my info/tutorial video on our Sea Goddess Healing Arts YouTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com.
Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, founder of Ursa Alchemy and founding partner/ Goddess of Operations (GOO) of Sea Goddess Healing Arts, Atlantic City, NJ. Find her services, teachings, podcast, get in touch and more at www. seagoddesshealingarts.com/ ursaalchemy
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