Finding the joy in the holiday season
Letter from the editor
"It's the most wonderful time of the year," or so the song goes. b ut let's be honest—for many of us, the holidays can feel less like a cheerful carol and more like a chaotic drum solo. between the endless to-do lists, awkward family dynamics and trying to remember where you hid that "perfect" gift, it's easy to wonder: Where's the joy?
For those grieving loved ones, separated from family or overwhelmed by life’s pressures, this time of year can be especially challenging. It doesn’t help that we’re bombarded with images of ideal holiday scenes on TV and social media—like everyone else’s holiday is picture-perfect. When reality doesn’t align with our glossy expectations, disappointment can sneak in fast.
They say comparison is the thief of joy, but I’d argue that expectations
are a greater threat. Take it from someone who knows. raising a child with autism during the 1990s—when public awareness was as sparse as a charlie b rown christmas tree— meant navigating a holiday minefield of unmet expectations. I imagined gleeful reactions to gifts and harmonious family gatherings. Instead, my son showed little interest in unwrapping presents and was easily overwhelmed at holiday parties.
It took years to realize that my son’s unique way of experiencing the world wasn’t a problem to solve but a perspective to embrace. Along the way, I also learned to let go of perfect holiday expectations for my neurotypical children as well. Whether it was an embarrassing tantrum or a blunt response to a not-so-perfect gift, I began to understand: the holidays are about connection, not perfection.
Of course, even surrounded by loved ones, December can feel like a marathon where the finish line keeps moving. Financial pressures, endless social obligations and the quest for Facebook worthy moments can leave anyone wondering why we don’t just hibernate like bears.
So, how do we reclaim the joy?
O ce - (609) 788-4812
Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com
Executive Editor - Cindy Christy Fertsch (609) 705-5323 shorelocalcindy@gmail.com
Publisher Assistant - Julia Train
Copy Editors - James FitzPatrick, Holly Fertsch, Julia Train
Advertising Sales - Meg Perry (609)425-5407 shorelocalmeg@gmail.com
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Contributors – Charles Eberson, Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Fred Miller, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Rachael Guebara, Elisa Jo Eagan, David Setley, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Whitney Ullman, Bill Quain, Chuck Darrow, Bruce Klauber, Christina Martin, Julia Train, Ursula Duffy, John Loreaux, Marjorie Preston, Tynan Hand
Cover photo courtesy of Historic Smithville
independent
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to keep the holiday spirit alive— and no, they don’t involve spiking the eggnog (though I’m not judging). Here’s what works for me:
1. Embrace simplicity
Who needs a grand light display when a quiet evening by the fire will do? b ake some cookies, watch a cheesy holiday movie and savor the little moments—burnt edges and all.
2. Prioritize connection
remember: no gift beats quality time. Whether it’s sharing a laugh over hot cocoa or trading stories from the past year, these moments outshine anything you can wrap in a bow.
3. Mindful gift giving
Forget the glittering store displays; the best gifts come from the heart. A handwritten note or a meaningful gesture can be worth more than the latest gadget.
4. Set realistic expectations crooked trees? Lopsided gingerbread houses? b ring ‘em on! Those quirks make the season memorable. Perfection is overrated—just ask rudolph.
5. Practice self-care carve out some “me time.” Take a walk, sip tea, or dive into a good book.
because let’s face it: you can’t pour from an empty mug.
6. Cultivate gratitude
It’s easy to focus on what’s missing, but gratitude has a way of shifting the narrative. Start small: be thankful for warm socks, a kind word or the neighbor’s christmas lights that make your yard look festive by association.
7. Acknowledge all feelings
Sometimes, the holidays bring up feelings of loss or loneliness. It’s okay to feel sad—in fact, it’s human. emotions are like holiday guests: they’ll eventually leave if you let them hang out for a while.
Joy isn’t some elusive reindeer we’re chasing; it’s a choice we make, a practice we cultivate. It’s found in the imperfect moments—in laughter over burnt cookies, in the beauty of a mismatched ornament and in the quiet gratitude for what we have.
So, this holiday season, let’s trade the pressure for presence and the stress for simplicity. may your days be merry, your tree slightly crooked and your heart full of joy.
Peace & Love, Cindy
Beach trees from north to south in Ocean City
By Steffen Klenk
Every year, thousands make their way to South Jersey to experience the magic of the holiday season. With dozens of special events, craft markets, visits with Santa, and the chill of winter hitting the air, locals are doing their part to bring a taste of joy to all around this season. In Ocean city, residents and visitors have begun planting christmas trees on the beach, each one symbolizing a different activity, occupation, or cause. Here at Shore Local, we take you on a north to south christmas tree tour.
It was six years ago that the m celwee family began a new tradition by planting a christmas tree at North Street and the Beach but it wasn’t until cOVID that it became a source of hope and inspiration to so many. Today, the family has continued this long-standing tradition, one that has
inspired so many of the trees you will see as you read forward. Just be prepared for a short walk up the sand and prepare for the forecast. Afterwards, drive down to 9th Street and the Boardwalk , where you will find Whale Tree. For the second year in a row, this tree is brought to us by a dedicated group of individuals with one collective message: love for our ocean. All are invited to share their decorated shells and ornaments for display.
A short walk down the boardwalk at 11th Street is military Tree, a large Fraser fir brought to the island by Dave Darrow and his two sons, Dan and Jesse. each year, the tree is planted in honor of Dave’s late wife, Kathy Darrow, and honors all individuals past and present who serve to protect and defend the freedoms we have today.
m aking its return to 15th Street Beach this year is the First responders Tree. residents Steve collum and Linda VanOcker concepted the community tree back in 2021. That year, hundreds of individuals left carefully placed ornaments, each one themed to represent policemen, firefighters, and emTs. VanOcker is a former em T for b erwyn Fire company and is dedicated to raising awareness of the pivotal role first responders play in our communities.
are into the growing sport will admire this unique tree, decorated entirely with pickleballs.
Don’t forget man’s best friend. Head to 21st Street Beach where you will find Pet Tree. This spot along the beach is the perfect place to decorate a shell or leave an ornament in celebration of a beloved canine or feline friend. It may even be the perfect place for a family photo. This tree gets two paws up.
New this year is Heaven Tree at 29th Street Beach , and a tree at 36th Street , both honoring the life and legacy of longtime area residents.
For the second year in a row, the Dechristopher family has placed their m emorial Tree at 34th Street Beach in memory of their mother rose Ann.
Just off the boardwalk at 18th Street is Pickleball Tree. Those who
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Steve Collum and Linda VanOcker at the First Responders Tree in 15th St.
The Darrow family at their Military Tree on 11th St.
Signs placed around the tree encourage beachgoers to decorate a shell in the memory of a loved one. There, you will also find a bright red mailbox, where children can drop off their letter to Santa, now until Dec. 17 at 4 p.m. If you forgot to bring stamps or an envelope, you will find a bin complete with stationary equipment to ensure a response before christmas.
There, you will also find a box entitled ‘Letters to Heaven’. b eachgoers can send messages of love, prayers, updates, or a holiday greeting to an individual who has passed on. For those who visit, this special mailbox can be a source of comfort and peace to those who are healing. Papers, pens, and envelopes are offered.
recent posts on social media show the return of Driftwood Tree to 40th Street with a clam shell that shares a simple message: Peace on earth.
the OcNJ Queens. The group is dedicated to connecting through social and philanthropic efforts. Last year,
cancer Support community New Jersey’s at Gilda’s.
At 50th Street Beach , you will find a well-decorated tree setup by a vibrant group of women known as
they raised nearly $1,000 for Angels in m otion. This holiday season, they are spreading cheer by supporting
Linda Walsh, organizer of the Queens group, says every donation will go towards helping individuals and families in critical need.
“Your generous contribution will have a lasting impact, providing vital support to those in need and helping to spread hope and comfort during this special time of year”, says Walsh.
The tree is a celebration of nature, adorned with handmade ornaments crafted from bird seeds, pinecones, peanut butter, pretzel sticks, and clam shells. each night, it is illuminated by twinkling solar lights for a touch of magic and festive cheer.
As you approach the southern tip of the island at 59th Street , look for the South end Tree. Donated by Ponderosa Tree Farm, locals can drop off their shells and take in a photo-op for lasting memories.
As you approach the well-decorated path towards the beach, keep an eye out for a large bin where you can drop
off any non-perishable food items to help individuals in need throughout our community.
With the holidays in full swing, we hope you take in all that this season has to offer. Let us know what trees you enjoyed seeing.
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.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
OC Queens Tree at 50th Street. Photo provided by Lisa Walsh
An illuminated South End Tree at 59th St.
By Meteorologist Joe Martucci
The polar vortex
It’s been meteorology’s biggest buzz word in our everyday weather conversations since it gained fame in 2014. However, it’s often misused and misunderstood. As with most things in life, it’s more complicated than it seems.
Yes, the polar vortex is generally responsible for deep cold and even snowstorms during the winter. However, there are two parts to the polar vortex and typically, when it’s colder than average for a while, like it was last week, the polar vortex already left New Jersey.
Polar vortex defined
In short, the polar vortex is used to describe a cold dome of low pressure that sits at the North Pole and South Pole during their winters.
“The term polar vortex is used to describe several different features in the atmosphere. It most commonly refers to a planetary-scale, mid- to high-latitude circumpolar circulation,” the Glossary of the American m eteorological Society states.
As the definition says, the polar vortex describes unique features in the atmosphere.
How many are there?
There’s not just one polar vortex, there are two. In school, we learn about the five layers of the earth’s atmosphere. From lowest to highest they are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere and exosphere.
One polar vortex lies in the stratosphere, roughly 8 to 31 miles above the surface. called the stratospheric
polar vortex, it spins in a counterclockwise motion above the polar regions (think Greenland, Siberia and northern Alaska). It forms during the autumn when temperatures cool rapidly as the sun sinks below the horizon for months at a time. The big temperature difference between the tropics and the poles causes the polar vortex to develop as a fast wind.
Then there’s the tropospheric polar vortex. The troposphere is the lowest level of the atmosphere. clouds, rain, snow, etc. all lie within the troposphere.
This polar vortex also runs counterclockwise. It lasts all year long, but is strongest during the winter. really
it’s a part of the jet stream, the river of air about 30,000 feet high that separates two air masses. In this case, it’s arctic air from sub-tropical air.
How it works in N.J.
All polar vortex invasions have to come from the stratosphere.
Think of the stratospheric polar vortex as a spinning top. The stronger the top spins, the more controlled it is standing upright. The slower it spins, the weaker it is, the more that top wobbles.
To have cold air outbreaks in New Jersey, you need the stratospheric polar vortex to weaken. This typically occurs when the powerful atmo -
spheric waves of air break upward from the troposphere into the stratosphere.
The stratospheric polar vortex then slows down and wobbles, like a slowing spinning top does. From there, the polar vortex can act in
one of two ways: stretch toward the equator or split into several pieces, which then drift southward. The split brings more severe cold than a stretch, on average.
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After that, the tropospheric polar vortex, the polar jet stream, will become very wavy. If you see a jet stream map, it’ll run very south to north and remain stationary for days. If New Jersey is under that big dip in the jet stream, we are in what’s called a trough of low pressure. That’s our long-lasting cold air outbreak. Powerful storms will then ride along the edge of the trough. If we’re close enough to the edge, big snow is likely.
The entire process takes time, though. From that powerful atmospheric wave entering the stratosphere to frigid temperatures here on the ground is about two weeks. The below-average temperatures the first week of December here were the result of the stratospheric polar vortex stretching down in the second half of November. even still, we only saw a glancing blow. In the United States the core of the below-average temperatures was in the midwest.
How long have we known about the polar vortex
The stratospheric polar vortex has been known since the late 1940s. However, it did not earn the name “polar vortex” until around 1960, according to a journal article in the b ulletin of the American m eteorological Society.
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
Polar vortex forecast for this winter
From now until January, the stratospheric polar vortex is forecast to be stronger and slightly colder than average, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Dec. 4 update.
This rules out the possibility of a polar vortex split. If a split polar vortex entered the shore, you’d be talking about highs in the teens, lows in the single digits and possibly a snowy nor’easter.
However, the polar vortex will stretch into the United States this weekend. That would bring temperatures more like the North Pole for Hanukkah, christmas and New Years holiday. That being said, don’t expect a repeat of 2017-2018, when it was so cold my ears felt like they would break off walking around Atlantic city on New Years eve night. This should wind up staying in the western half of the United States.
b etween now and at least early February, long-lasting cold and big snows are not likely here at the Jersey Shore. There is the possibility the polar vortex will stretch back down early in February, which would bring a deep winter chill for the second half of the month, according to Judah cohen, director of seasonal forecasts for atmospheric and environmental research in massachusetts.
Polar vortex and climate change
There is no convincing evidence that climate change in recent decades is impacting the polar vortex.
For much of the 1990s, the arctic polar vortex spun strong at the North Pole, limiting long-lasting deep cold and snow invasions. Then, in the 2000s and early 2010s, the stratospheric polar vortex weakened almost yearly. However, that weakening has happened less often since then.
Drought update
It’s been raining (and yes, snowing for a few) but our drought status remains the same. As of Dec. 6, the South Jersey shore remains in “extreme” drought, a Level 3 of four, from the United States Drought m onitor with 50.2% of New Jersey is in the same stage. Furthermore, a drought warning is still in effect by the New Jersey Department of environmental Protection. We need about an inch of precipitation per week just to keep up, New Jersey State climatologist Dave robinson said on my November m onthly Weather roundup (you can find it on my YouTube channel). While it’s rained at least once a week since our record dry streak ended on Nov. 10, we haven’t seen enough rain to ease our drought concern. We really need more than an inch of precipitation to do that.
Winter Outlook, Live!
Our final free, 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. Join for giveaways, questions and answers and helpful emergency information from the Downbeach towns’ leaders. Pre-registration is appreciated. You can find that on my social media pages.
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
Events and Happenings
Multi-day Events
Noyes Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village
▶Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15, Noon-5 p.m.
Noyes Arts Garage, 2200 Fairmount Ave., Atlantic city
Save the date for the annual Noyes Holiday market, featuring dozens of vendors, live music, food and drinks and more. You can also drop off a donation of a new, unwrapped toy for the Holiday Toy Drive, benefiting families in Atlantic county.
‘Anastasia: The Musical’-Youth Edition
▶Saturday, Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m.
Ocean city music Pier, 825 boardwalk
‘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 b roadway hit is specially tailored for young actors and will feature students in grades three-eight. Purchase tickets online at www.oceancitytheatrecompany. com.
Irving Berlin’s ‘White Christmas’
▶Friday, Dec. 13-Sunday, Dec. 22
Gateway Playhouse, 738 bay Ave.,
Somers Point
The Gateway presents this classic film converted into a b roadway musical. bob and Phil, a military veteran song-and-dance duo, fall headover-heels for a stunning sister act en route to a christmas stage show. Their romantic pursuits land them in a magical Vermont Inn owned by their former commander. Don’t miss this classic American story. Showtimes are Friday, Dec. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. Purchase tickets online at www. gatewaybythebay.org.
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. Plus, enjoy strolling through the over 150 shops that make up Historic Smithville. m ore information is available at www.historicsmithville.com.
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 lights. The park is open m on -
day-Thursday 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 online 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. There is something for everyone to enjoy this season. Learn more and purchase skate tickets at www.renaultwinery. com.
Santa in the Downtown
▶Saturdays and Sundays, 9-11 a.m.
Soifer Park, Nnth 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 12
Sip & See
▶5-7 p.m.
The red Door Thrift Store at Gilda’s, 700 New road, Linwood Join cancer Support community New Jersey at Gilda’s for this special holiday event. enjoy sips and bites, along with sales on selected items, holiday décor, furniture, serve wear and more.
Friday, December 13
Festive Fridays in Ocean City
▶4-7 p.m.
Downtown Asbury Ave.
Join Downtown Ocean city m erchants in celebrating the holiday season with shopping specials, Horse and carriage rides 4-7 p.m. departing from Sixth and Asbury, through the downtown adorned with thousands of christmas lights while shopping for some of the best gifts of the season.
Holiday Tree and Menorah Lighting
▶5 p.m.
Longport borough Hall, 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Join Longport for a holiday tree and menorah lighting outside at the gazebos behind borough Hall. There will be festive music, carolers, cookies and more. call 609-487-7403 to learn more.
Yuletide Night Market
▶5-9 p.m.
The Inn of St. Louis, 446 St. Louis Ave., egg Harbor city
Dozens of art and craft vendors converge for an evening of yuletide cheer. There will be carolers, photo ops, DJ set by Santa, food drink specials and more.
Downbeach Toy Drive Festival
▶6 p.m.
margate ball Fields at Huntington and Fulton Ave.
m ark your calendars for the annual Winter Wonderland Toy Drive Festival. The event will be held at the Sigmund rimm recreation complex, in the parking lot off Huntington Ave. There will be plenty of food, live music, dancing, train rides, crafters, games and photos with Santa. bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Atlantic county Toys for Kids program. For more information, go to www.toysforkidsprogram.org and click on the events tab.
Saturday, December 14
Reed’s Farm Holiday Fall Market
▶9 a.m.-3 p.m.
reed’s Farm, 5075 Spruce Ave., egg Harbor Township
Support your community and shop local this holiday. reed’s Farm is teaming up with Garden State Flea markets for a local market featuring area makers and vendors, wood-fired
pizza, coffee and vintage candy cane lane.
Grace Lutheran Church
17th Annual Cookie Walk
▶9 a.m.-Sold Out
11 e . Dawes Ave., Somers Point
come get some holiday spirit at the annual Grace Lutheran cookie Walk. b rowse platter after platter of home-baked goods, pies, breads, fudge and other treats. cookes are $10 per pound with other items individually priced. Get personalized Gingerbread men and enjoy freshly made scones and hot chocolate while shopping the vendors and white elephant tables for last minute gifts.
Stocking Stuffer Saturday at Misty Meadow
▶11 a.m.-4 p.m.
m isty m eadow Sheep Dairy, 100 Dennisville-Petersburg road, Woodbine
celebrate the season with a plethora of holiday activities including ice skating, hayrides, vendors, petting zoo, games and playground.
Ocean’s Holiday Village
▶11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Ocean casino resort, 500 boardwalk, Atlantic city e xperience Ocean’s enchanting Holiday Village, a festive wonderland filled with joy and cheer. Located inside The Shops at The row, you are sure to find the perfect holiday gift at one of Ocean’s hand-selected vendors. Ocean’s Holiday Village will be open Saturdays through Dec. 21.
‘The Nutcracker’ by Atlantic City Ballet
▶3 p.m.
Stockton Performing Arts center, 101 Vera King Farris Dr., Galloway celebrate a long-cherished tradition of wondrous holiday perfor-
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Chr istmas Ser v ice of L essons and Carols
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mances from the Atlantic city ballet. This beloved ballet tells the story of a little girl named ciara who is given a magical nutcracker doll on christmas eve. embarking on a wondrous journey, ciara encounters many unforgettable and timeless characters. Tickets can be purchased at www. stockton.edu/pac.
Pats Place 4 Comedy
▶8 p.m.
Studio Space, 112 Woodland Ave., Somers Point
Get ready for a night of laughs, featuring Gary G. Garcia, randi Simon Lupo, brian Steadman and Leesa Toscano. Tickets are $25 at the door, or $20 online via www.brownpapertickets.com/event/6495378.
Sunday, December 15
HG Workshops Winter Bazaar
▶11 a.m.-6 p.m.
The Shore club, 1170 Golf club road, cape may court House
Join a festive and cozy event with local handmade vendors, a DIY gift workshop, self-care stations and cash bar. Admission is $5 in advance. Purchase tickets online at www.hgworkshops.com.
Holiday Expressions:
The Bay Atlantic Symphony
▶2 p.m.
Stockton Performing Arts center, 101 Vera King Farris Dr., Galloway
Soprano soloist m elissa chavez sings two christmas classics while flutists and concertmaster ruotao m ao are featured in Johann bach’s bejeweled and uplifting Fourth b randenburg concerto. m usic for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa round out this holiday celebration and there are two carol sing-alongs in great holiday tradition. Tickets can be purchased at www.stockton.edu/pac.
Jazz Concert at Ocean City Library
▶2:30 p.m.
1735 Simpson Ave.
Check out the Light Show on the Lake at Historic Smithville every day 5:30-8:30 p.m. Photo credit: Historic Smithville
refreshments will be served following the performance.
A Ceremony of Carols
▶4 p.m.
St. Peter’s United m ethodist church eighth St. and central Ave.
Join the Women of St. Peter’s choir for a special concert in the sanctuary this Sunday. The choir will present b enjamin b ritten’s “A ceremony of carols,” accompanied by Harriet Karen Stern under the direction of John bate.
Monday, December 16
‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ performed by the Ed Vezinho & Jim Ward Big Band ▶7:30 p.m.
Stockton campus center Theatre, 101 Vera King Farris Dr., Galloway
Join Stockton’s resident big band as they take on an ever-changing catalog of holiday hits inspired by the classic christmas Tale, “A charlie b rown christmas.” Tickets can be purchased at www.stockton.edu/pac.
Tuesday, December 17
Bingo at the Library
▶6:30 p.m.
Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Try your luck at bingo at the Longport Library. Available for all ages. c all 609-487-7403 to register or learn more.
Join the Ocean city Free Public Library for a Sunday afternoon jazz concert. The creative Sax Quartet with rhythm section and jazz artists performing classical, big band and broadway hits. The performance will be held in the chris maloney Lecture Hall, closest to the 17th St. entrance. Bethlehem’s Child Concert in Linwood
▶4 p.m.
central United m ethodist church, 5 marvin Ave., Linwood
The chancel choir of central U mc presents their annual christmas concert, featuring the cantata ‘ bethlehem’s child.’ This program will showcase several anthems and songs that are sure to put you in the christmas spirit. Admission is free. A free will offering will be accepted. Light
Sustainable Book Group OCUT ▶7 p.m.
Upper Twp. Senior and Wellness c enter, 1369 Stagecoach r oad, Ocean View
This month the Sustainable boom Group for Ocean city and Upper Twp. will host a discussion of the book, “Small is b eautiful” by e .F. Schumacher. This hybrid meeting will be held in-person and via Zoom. register online at https://tinyurl.com/ SbG17DecZoom.
Somers Point Dance Society ▶7:30-10 p.m.
Somers Point Fire Hall, 447 bethelroad
Admission is $10 and includes snacks, live musical duos, line dancing, dance mixers, social dancing and plenty of parking. come out and kick
up your heels, or just listen to good music with good company.
Wednesday, December 18
Somers Point Pinochle Club
▶6-8:30 p.m.
Somers Point Senior and community center, 22 N. Ambler road
Gather with friends and neighbors this Wednesday evening to play Pinochle. All are welcome to join.
Thursday, December 19
Coffee Klatch
▶10:30 a.m.
Katz J cc , 501 N. Jerome Ave., margate
Join a fast-paced discussion on neighborhood happenings, technology, social topics, world events, the arts and more. The program is moderated by JFS Village community Specialist Tina Serota and board of Jewish education e xecutive Director Josh cutler. Attend in-person at the Katz J cc boardroom. rSVP by Dec. 17 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or email tserota@ jfsatlantic.org.
Friday, December 20
Memoir Workshop
▶10:30 a.m.
e xperience the thrill of capturing life’s adventures, history and ancestry, led by Drexel University Director of certificate Program in Writing and Publishing, Harriet Levin millan. A laptop or pen and paper is needed for the workshop. rSVP by Dec. 17 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-2878872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic. org.
Family Fun Night at Misty Meadow
▶4-8 p.m.
m isty m eadow Sheep Dairy, 100 Dennisville-Petersburg road, Woodbine
Take in a festive evening at misty m eadow and enjoy a plethora of activities, including ice skating, a visit from Santa, hayrides, kids crafts, petting zoo, games, playground and food.
Saturday, December 21
Holiday Sweet Sale
▶Noon-3 p.m.
Atlantic county Historical Society, 907 Shore road, Somers Point
Home baked cookies, breads and other sweet treats will be for sale.
Health and Wellness
MHA Atlantic Family Meetings
▶Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.
These virtual support groups and educational programs are for individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. Day and evening meetings include an educational segment as well as support in the form of stress-reduction, self-care, resources and advocacy. m eetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday and 7 p.m. every third Wednesday. contact Gail christian at 609-652-3800, ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj.org to receive a meeting link.
Living in the Moment Group
▶Fridays, 10:30 a.m.
m ental Health Association of Atlantic county, 4 e . Jimmie Leeds road, Galloway
Slow down and spend an hour with like-minded people working on developing gratitude, self-love and other character traits that encourage mindfulness. Weekly meetings include meaningful discussions, camaraderie and a group activity. For more information, call 609-652-3800, ext. 0306.
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.
The Atlantic City Ballet's performances of “The Nutcracker” will return to Stockton University’s Performing Arts Center for three performances on Friday, Dec. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 14. Photo credit: Stockton University
Ten holiday gifts perfect for everyone on your list
By Julia Train
The holidays are quickly approaching and finding the perfect gifts can feel like a daunting task. Whether you're shopping for a foodie, a fitness junkie, a thrill seeker or someone who just loves decorating their home, it's important to choose something meaningful and thoughtful.
Here are 10 local gift ideas that are sure to delight your loved ones this year.
1. Ride tickets for thrills and fun
For the adventure-seeker in your life, consider giving the gift of excitement with ride tickets. Playland's castaway cove is offering 50 ride tickets for $25. Storybook Land, a perfect attraction for families, has their 2025 season tickets on sale now too.
2. Gift cards for boardwalk activities
If someone on your list loves a
day of fun at the boardwalk, treat them to gift cards or passes for activities like mini golf, go-karts and arcade games. Seaside Go Kart Speedway is offering 5 passes for just $25, and attractions like Jilly’s Arcade, encounters on the Ocean city boardwalk and escape rooms all offer unique experiences as well.
3. Delicious sweets from local candy shops
Local candy shops like Kilwins or Shriver’s in Ocean city offer a variety of mouth-watering options, like decadent chocolates or salt water taffy. These sweet treats make for great stocking stuffers or you can even make personalized chocolate boxes for the candy lover in your life.
4. Gift cards for local restaurants or coffee shops for foodies
For those who appreciate a good meal, a gift card to a local restaurant or coffee shop, like PJ’s coffee in Linwood and Surf road in Smithville, is always a hit.
OCEAN AQUARIUM
9. Home decor for those who want a cozy touch
Do you know someone who just bought a house or moved? Get them a gift that doubles as a housewarming present!
10. Outdoor gear and gifts for the adventurer
For the outdoorsy or blue-collar guy on your list, check out The Hub in Somers Point or m ays Landing for practical gifts like outdoor clothes and accessories.
Some ideas: a new jacket for the cold, boots or a gift card to shop for whatever they need.
choosing the perfect gift doesn't have to be stressful. When all is said and done, the holidays are about spending time with your loved ones and showing them how much you care about them. Whether you're looking for something personalized, practical or fun,
5. Surf lessons for those who love the beach
If you’re shopping for someone who loves the beach or has always wanted to learn how to surf, a surf lesson is the perfect gift. Local surf shops offer lessons for all skill levels, and it’s a thoughtful and adventurous gift for anyone who enjoys the coastal lifestyle.
Two surf shops that offer lessons located in Ocean city are 7th Street Surf Shop and Heritage Surf & Sport, which also has two more locations in Sea Isle and margate.
6. Crafting experience
For those who enjoy DIY projects, HG Workshops in Northfield offers classes on candle making, resin art, wood burning and more.
7. Golf membership for avid golfers
A golf membership to a local course, such as Harbor Pines, would be a fantastic gift for the golfer in your life. With this membership, they can enjoy year-round access to the greens, alongside a variety of exclusive perks.
8. Jewelry for those who love sparkly accessories
Jewelry is always a timeless gift, and roberts Fine Jewelers in Northfield is running a sale of up to 70% off select items until Dec. 24. From diamond earrings and gemstone jewelry, there's something for everyone. Whether it’s a statement piece or something more subtle, jewelry is a thoughtful gift that can last a lifetime.
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
gift giving is a love language and those you shopped for will definitely feel appreciated.
Experience gifts are a great alternative to physical gifts. Check out Seaside Go Kart Speedway's deal. Photo credit: Playland's Castaway Cove OCNJ Facebook
Get the coffee lover on your list a gift card to a local coffee shop. Photo credit: Surf Road Coffee Bar & Beach Bowls Facebook
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A ‘bucket list moment at the Somers Point Christmas Parade
Views from the Shore
By Brian Cahill
The holidays are the perfect time of year to take a step back, reflect, and appreciate the people who have influenced us and changed the direction of our lives. I look back on my start in marketing in this area, and it’s because of two people that I am here. The first is one of my mentors, marketing guru Valerie m cGonigal, who took a chance on me when she hired me as a publicist at caesars, and the second is Gary Poetsch.
was quite annoying, Gary was kind and patient, and kept telling me they would be in touch with a decision. He did so, always in a friendly manner and with his signature chuckle. Looking back, Gary could’ve easily told of my impatience to Val, and recommended passing on me for the job. but he didn’t, and I was hired shortly thereafter.
Fast forward to today. Gary now works for Shore Physicians Group, and though our careers took different twists and turns, we once again ended up in the same place. One day we were reminiscing about our days at caesars during miss America, and he told me that one of his “ bucket List” items was to drive a float in a parade.
100 E Faunce Landing Rd, Absecon
3 Bed 2 Bath home with In-Law Suite in Absecon by the Bay! Unique 1915 Vintage Bay Block
Gary was in H r at the time when I was interviewing with Val, and it was he who I pestered day and in day out to see if I got the job. Though I
As soon as he said it, I knew it was time to return the favor for Gary who helped me years ago. Shore was one of the 50 attractions set to participate in the Somers Point christmas parade. We had the truck, the lights, the staff, two dogs, and our FIN the Dolphin ambassador, but we needed a driver. I approached Gary, and he
agreed before I could finish my sentence.
We met at the starting point, and I could see the magic of the season in Gary’s eyes, especially when he saw a group of mummers. He really was like a kid at christmas. He climbed into driver’s seat, and the rest of us hopped in the back, and we were off.
“Kudos to the Somers Point Historical Society for organizing an incredible event for the community, and to the Somers Point Police Department for their support,” said Gary. “I couldn’t believe how many people came out for it. Shore road was lined with people of all ages, and when we got to c harlie’s they were lined up three and four deep. I’ve never driven in something like that…. it was awesome!
“Driving our attraction was a lot of fun, but I did have to make sure I focused on what was in front of me and not get distracted by the cheering of the crowds,” added Gary. “At any point, someone could’ve tried to cross the road, and I stayed alert to that. but I also made sure to enjoy the moment. It was always something I wanted to do.”
The Somers Point christmas parade lived up to the hype, and likely exceeded the expectations of those who planned and participated in it. If you were there, I know you’d agree, and if not, hopefully you will come out next year. As for Gary, it was time to check off a box on his bucket list. I asked what was next for him and he said with a chuckle, “I don’t know, maybe I’ll fly an airplane.”
I wish him luck with that, but I’ll
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. Where It's All Good Where It's All Good
likely sit that one out. Happy Holidays everyone!
Brian
Bargaintown Fire Company plans visit with Santa for children with special needs
By Stephanie Loder
The bargaintown Volunteer Fire company plans a Special Needs and Sensory Friendly visit with Santa claus on Dec. 22 in egg Harbor Township.
The special event is the brainchild of bargaintown Fire chief eugene “Gene” Sharpe and his wife, Patty, a special needs teacher.
They said the event is in its 10th year at the firehouse in egg Harbor Township, they said.
In the past decade, hundreds of children with special needs have visited the sensory-friendly event to take part in holiday activities they might normally not find anywhere else – like
getting their picture taken with Santa in a room with no noise.
“We try to have it as calm as possible in the firehouse,” the chief said.
Patty Sharpe has been an educator for 40 years, spending 32 of those years teaching preschool in the egg Harbor Township School District and working with inclusive special needs students.
Her husband, Gene Sharpe, a retired Ocean city police officer, often visits her classrooms to assist students during classroom events and Fire Prevention m onth
elizabeth Gipson is an occupational therapist at Atlantic county Special Services District in mays Landing.
ed events because of noise and distraction.
“People couldn’t go out for holiday events because their child was just overwhelmed at the mall or in public,” Patty said.
Patty said what makes the sensory-friendly event special is the quiet.
“The point is to have it as calm as possible, so kids don’t feel like they can’t go inside (the fire station) and so they don’t feel embarrassed,” Patty said.
During the first few years, Patty and Gene used only the kitchen area of the fire station.
The idea of having a Special Needs and Sensory Friendly Visit with Santa began with members of their own family, Patty said.
Their two daughters are each involved with special needs students.
Sarah-Ashley Sharpe works in the Galloway School system as a PSD (Program for Students with Disabilities) teacher.
“We work with a limited number of volunteers, mostly our family,” Patty said.
The holiday event is a much-needed holiday afternoon for families with special needs children.
many with special needs are often left out of christmas because they can’t visit Santa claus at the mall due to crowds. It’s also difficult for them to participate in other holiday-relat-
As more children came each year, they expanded into the firetruck bays and they now use the entire firehouse for the event.
“In the beginning we just had Santa sitting in the corner. If a child came in, they could decide if they wanted to see him, and if not, that was fine too,” Patty said.
Patty and Gene added some model train sets to entice children who might be apprehensive about coming inside the fire station.
Tables with crafts are also set up in the bays.
“We pull the trucks out and put the crafts inside. The setup is extremely informal,” Gene said.
children can also climb into a fire truck if they want.
“We have a firefighter on either side. If a child wants they can get help to climb in the truck and the firefighter on the other side helps them to get out safely,” he said.
“Kids love the firetrucks and we love giving back to the community,” he said. “It’s in the daytime, and the guys know what is going on when they do this and they keep the noise down.”
If a child doesn’t want to see Santa, there is no pressure.
“If they don’t want to go near Santa they can go to an area in the corner and have a book or go out and do crafts. We give them a lot of options,” Patty said.
In case firefighters need to respond to a fire, a fire truck is kept outside during the event to ensure children don’t get upset by noise.
The egg Harbor Township Police Department will provide a table where parents can get an identification card for their child.
The event is free.
The fire company pays for the cost of the event, but donations to the fire company are accepted.
Volunteers are getting the word out about the special sensory Santa event through Facebook and through fliers that are sent home with students in school districts and at special services.
Last year, some group home members visited at the sensory event, Patty said.
She said others have come from as far away as cherry Hill because there were no other sensory-friendly Santa events in their area.
“We try to keep it informal. We have a ton of crafts spread on a table and if that’s what a child wants to do, that’s fine. It’s a nice event and parents don’t have to worry. It gives them a little bit of calm,” Patty said.
Gene Sharpe said his firefighters are no strangers to working with children on fire calls.
“We’ve had training and anytime we go to houses with children, we carry teddy bears and we always have plastic fire hats with us to hand out. When we go to a fire call, kids are
upset and it gives us a way to approach them. most of our firefighters have kids at home themselves.”
“Our guys really care. They’re a good caring group,” the chief said.
The Sharpes said the event is rewarding.
“You get to see the children come in and they’re nervous at first, but by the time they go out, they have their snacks and crafts in hand, and you see them relax,” Patty said.
The chief said he’s encouraged every time he sees a special needs child finally get on Santa’s lap to pose for a picture.
“For some (special needs children), it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance. They come in and they don’t like to get near Santa, but we go out of our way, and in the end, they have their picture taken. It’s very rewarding,” said the chief, who also plays Santa for the special needs children.
The Special Needs and Sensory Friendly Visit with Santa will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22 at the bargaintown Station #1, 6550 mill road, bargaintown.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to bring their cameras to take pictures with Santa. Anyone with questions should visit the bargaintown Volunteer Fire company Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/@bargaintownFire to send a message.
Stephanie is a freelance writer with 40 years experience covering NJ news for The Asbury Park Press, The Courier Post, The Catholic Star Herald and The Press of AC. Email her at stephanieloder59@hotmail.com
Photo credit: Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company Facebook
Iconic pirate ship ready for return at Playland Castaway Cove for 2025 season
By Stephanie Loder
Playland’s c astaway cove beachfront amusement park in Ocean city plans to open its 2025 season in the spring with a new, 60-foot-long pirate ship at the entrance to replace the one destroyed in a fire nearly four years ago.
A four-alarm blaze in January 2021 destroyed Playland’s arcade and iconic three-masted ship with an oversized parrot and a pistol-packing pirate on the resort’s boardwalk.
Fire officials said the blaze was accidental and caused by an undetermined electrical source near the front of the building.
Playland reopened for visitors in the spring of 2021 – but without the pirate ship.
“It (the pirate ship) was in our original plan three years ago and everything was approved,” said Playland’s Vice President brian Hartley.
The pirate ship is not a Playland amusement ride.
“It’s a decoration – but it’s funny, we never realized how much it meant
to people until after the fire. It’s one of those things we learned after the fire and the picture of the pirate ship kept popping up on social media and people were concerned whether we
would have another pirate ship.”
The new pirate ship will be stationary, but it will play music and have cannons that fire with bursts of smoke and fog.
“The ship will not move but the cannons will fire to create a little more entertainment and make it more of a show as people are walking by,” Hartley said.
Hartley said he anticipates the pirate ship to be installed in time for Playland’s opening on e aster Weekend 2025.
“We anticipate everything to be ready for e aster weekend. We are moving along. It might even be Palm Sunday weekend, but it absolutely should be ready by e aster weekend. It’s been long enough,” Hartley said.
The pirate ship is expected to arrive in December, but will remain in storage until February, he said.
“Winds off the ocean make it difficult to have a crane up there, so it’s not an ideal time to do the job right now. We’re looking at the end of February or the beginning of m arch to start putting it up,” he said.
The amusement park is also approved to add a roller coaster along with the pirate ship.
However, Hartley said the roller coaster is “two or three years down the road.”
“We are working with some different manufacturers and we have been trying to get some concepts and ideas of what we want to incorporate into the ride,” he said.
“We plan to take a look at all those ideas and we will end up blending all of them because we have some really cool ideas,” he said.
The rollercoaster will be “ a family-oriented ride, something that is not fast, and that is something that mom and grandmom can ride on.”
Hartley isn’t giving away a lot of details, but he said one idea for the rollercoaster is to include “slow, hidden turns.”
Hartley anticipates additional visitors for the 2025 season because of the closing of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier in October.
The new pirate ship is being created by a fabrication company on the West coast and “will be trucked in and dropped off,” Hartley said.
“The fabrication company is very well versed in this and it (the pirate ship) is going to look awesome,” he said.
The new pirate ship will be more vibrant, he added.
“The old one was constructed out of wood and built by hand,” Hartley said. “There’s so much more that can be done with the technology at hand now, like 3-D printing and molds. It will be a lot more intricate.”
“It’s unfortunately what happened down there (Wonderland). We are a tourism industry here, and any loss of entertainment is a detriment,” Hartley said.
Playland has been on the boardwalk since 1959 and is now the resort’s only amusement park, Hartley, who started his career at Playland at age 14, has been with the company for 33 years.
He is adamant the pirate ship will be installed on time.
“We’ve been working on these plans for years. We’re always looking to improve,” he said.
Plans call for a family-themed coaster above the pirate ship entrance.
The entrance before the January 2021 fire.
Generations of Roller Skating Tradition
After owning Lake Lenape Park since 1960, Ed and Winnie Young realized their dream when they built Young’s Skating Center, on Park Road in 1974. For the next 20 years, Ed and Winnie continued to provide the families of the area with a world class skating facility where skating sessions were packed with hundreds of kids, adults, families rolling to the latest disco beats. The skating center boasted athletes who practiced and competed in Figure Skating and Speed Skating, as well as hosting birthday parties, private parties, and fundraisers for area schools, churches, and organizations.
Jim and Judy Link, the present owners of Young’s Skating Center, continue the family legacy, purchasing the Skating Center from Judy’s mother and father, Winnie and Ed Young, in 1995, enabling them to retire. Jim and Judy had already been in the roller skating rink business together having owned/operated Young’s Regency Skating Center in Blue Bell, PA, and
The Villanova Skating Arena in Villanova, PA. Since taking over the family business, Jim and Judy have focused their attention on keeping a family-oriented business, providing a fun, safe, healthy, and recreational experience. They continue to host birthday parties during public skating sessions, private parties and fundraisers. They are also committed to the sport of roller skating. While providing skating lessons weekly, Young’s is the home of world class and nationally ranked skating coaches and instructors, who have produced Olympic level athletes that represented the United States in World competitions held in New Zealand, South America, and in Europe. Judy’s goal is to one day see Roller Skating featured in the Olympic Games.
As business owners, and residents of Hamilton Township, the Links have always looked past their properties. Judy is a member of the Rotary Club (Past President), voted a member of the Township Committee, served on the Environmental Commission, and was appointed by Governor Corzine to the NJ Pinelands Commission. Both served as Officers of the local chapter of the Roller Skating Association. Jim served as a member of the Hamilton Township Committee, and Chairman of the Hamiton Township Planning Board. While Judy took care of the Day-to-day operation of the rink, Jim just retired after working 23 years at the FAA Tech Center. Their family ranges from three
children who are pursuing professional careers, and seven grandchildren ages 13 to 25, all of whom skate. With any luck someone in the family will continue Generations of Roller Skating Tradition.
For information, call (609) 625-1191, visit our website at www.youngsskatingcenter.com, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, and see us on Tik Tok.
Join us on Sunday, December 15, 2024 from 11:00AM until 3:30PM to celebrate our 50th anniversary.
Ed and Winnie Young
Remembering Jessica Savitch: Margate’s ‘Golden Girl’ of TV news
By Bruce Klauber
Though hardly remembered today, the late, ground-breaking news anchorwoman Jessica Savitch, who spent her formative years in m argate, was among the most influential individuals in the history of television news.
At the height of her career in 1977, Savitch was only the second woman in the N bc network’s history to anchor a national weekend newscast. Not long after, she was the first woman to anchor a weekday newscast.
born in Wilmington, she moved to Kennett Square, Pa., where she lived until the age of 12, when her father passed away. The family then moved to margate.
“The year I turned 12, my father turned gravely ill with a kidney disease, and his death at the age of 34 shattered my life,” Savitch wrote in her autobiography, “Anchorwoman.”
“ m y mother was forced to sell the house and move us to margate, to be near her parents, who lived on the seashore. I felt like Dorothy in ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ swept away by a tornado to a strange land. everything
familiar to me was gone; my father, my home, my school, my community, my friends, and even, in a way, my mother, who resumed the nursing career she had abandoned when she married.”
Things didn’t get any better emotionally for the young Savitch when she entered Atlantic city High School, then located on Albany and Atlantic avenues.
“It was a monstrous, noisy, inner-city school with an ethnic and socio-economic mix that confounded
J e s s H i m m e l M e d i u m s h i p & O
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 !
In 1977, Jessica Savitch became the second woman in the history of NBC to anchor a national weekend newscast.
me,” she said. “I was used to the tidy homogeneity of my provincial school in Pennsylvania. Here in Atlantic city, my classmates were the sons and daughters of wealthy merchants, blacks from the ghetto, street-wise urbanites who must have surely recognized that I, with my hopeless knee socks that didn’t always match my sweaters, was as out of place as I felt.”
She began to find her way in her second year of high school when she met a student named Steve b erger, who was working for a WOND radio show called “Teenville.” berger invited Savitch to visit the station, then located in Pleasantville.
“On a Saturday morning,” Savitch wrote, “I drove with Steve across the bridge to the WOND station, a faded saltbox on stilts known affectionately as ‘The Jukebox in the Swamp.’ Steve introduced me to the program director, mike elliott, who asked if I would like to record an introduction to the afternoon show. When I got home, my mother and I listened to the program at the kitchen table. As soon as I heard my voice on the airwaves, my destiny was fixed.”
She was hooked on broadcasting, and not long after her first visit to the station, she was hired by WOND as an on-air host. Though she developed quite the local following as a WOND
disc jockey, her formal introduction to big-time television news happened when the Democratic National convention came to Atlantic city in the summer of 1964.
“ m y dream of being a reporter took on an aura of reality in the summer of 1964,” Savitch said. “Atlantic city was the site of the 1964 Democratic convention, and because WOND was an Abc affiliate, I managed to get a perimeter pass to bader Field, the airstrip where Lyndon Johnson would be landing. That press card was like a ticket to paradise.”
b y this juncture, there was no doubt in her mind that she would go to one of the few colleges at the time that offered a major in broadcast journalism. Her mother was more than concerned because, as Savitch explained, “There was no frame of reference in my family for a journalistic career of any sort.”
The rest of her story could have been the stuff of a Hollywood movie (it was, in fact, by way of a botched motion picture called “Up close and Personal”). After graduation from Ithaca college, she spent a short time as a production assistant at WcbS radio in New York.
She got her first on-air TV experience as a reporter and anchor in Houston, and in 1972, she moved to one of television’s top markets,
Philadelphia’s KYW Television, then an N bc affiliate.
The city loved her, and for the first time, KYW seriously challenged WPVI’s “Action News,” the most widely-viewed telecast in the city for years. She loved Philadelphia and Philadelphia loved her. The camera absolutely loved her. After almost five years in Philadelphia, her dream of joining a national network news organization came true when she joined N bc as weekend anchor.
Things moved along quickly for the always-ambitious anchorwoman. She was a panelist on “ m eet the Press,” hosted a public affairs series on PbS, and appeared regularly on primetime with the short and punchy N bc News Digest updates.
Things began to sour around 1983 when she was no longer the only female anchor on the scene. connie chung, just to name one, was a competitor who ended up replacing Savitch as Saturday evening anchor. At the same time, talk about Savitch’s drug use and emotional instability, rumored for years, increased.
everything came to a head on Oct. 3, 1983 during a brief News Digest segment. Savitch was clearly impaired on national television. She later blamed a teleprompter malfunction, and then said she had taken pain medication she needed following
surgery for a boating accident injury. That was pretty much the end of her career.
On Oct. 23, 1983, she was having dinner at chez Odette’s in New Hope, Pa., with New York Post Vice President m artin Fischbein. After their dinner together, Fischbein drove the wrong way out of Odette’s and the car and went off the road, falling 15 feet into a canal. both died. Though rumors of drug use persisted, an autopsy revealed that there were no drugs and only a tiny amount of alcohol in their systems.
“The funeral was held on Tuesday, Oct. 25, at roth m emorial chapel near the Inlet, then the only Jewish funeral home in the area. Fellow KYW television anchor mort crim gave the eulogy. Afterward he said, “I just did the best I could to try and express what everybody felt, and that is the tremendous loss of a very beautiful person.”
Jessica Savitch was 36 years old.
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.
The Somers Point b usiness Association proudly announced the winners of the 2025 SPbA Awards which recognize SPbA member businesses and organizations that have made an impact on the people who live, work, and play in Somers Point. Awards were presented by SPbA Vice President bobby consalo and SPbA Treasurer Jane Alvarez at the SPbA holiday party at Gregory’s restaurant & bar on Thursday, Dec. 5.
The following are the winners and categories for the 2025 SPbA Awards, each designed to recognize SPbA members who have set the high standard for excellence in customer service, creativity, culture, service, and growth. Only businesses and organizations that are members of the SPbA were selected to be eligible to win in each category.
• Custard Hut - Service with a Smile Award , recognizing unwavering dedication and outstanding customer/patient care.
• Somers Point Lumber - David vs. Goliath Award, celebrating triumphs of small businesses against the giants.
• Somers Café - New Kid on the Block Award, celebrating an emerging business and new perspectives.
• Shore Local - Buzz Builder Award, honoring the SPbA member with the most outstanding social media presence.
• Crab Trap - We’ve Got the Best Taste Award, saluting the best place to dine or grab a treat.
• Gregory’s - Mixology Master Award, honoring the hotspot with the best bartenders- crafting perfection, one cocktail at a time
• Josie Kelly’s Public House - Best Face Forward Award, honoring the best looking storefront/building entrance.
• TD Bank - Partner You Can Bank On or Has Your Back Award, recognizing a reliable and trustworthy financial ally.
• Gateway Playhouse - Art Appreciation Award, applauding excellence in all forms of art and entertainment.
• Glenn Insurance, Go with the Pro Award, celebrating the business that provides exceptional business/ legal service.
The SPbA is an organization that brings together businesses and professionals interested in the promotion, improvement, development and advancement of the business climate of Somers Point. The organization has served as the Voice of the Somers Point business community for more than 40 years. For more information on the Somers Point business Association or to become a member, visit www.somerspointba.org or email somerspointba@gmail.com.
Sam Phillips of Somers Point Lumber accepting the David versus Goliath award
Bob and Cindy Fertsch of Shore Local accepting the Buzz Builder award
Members enjoying the party at Gregory‘s.
Lawson’s Pride of Somers Point hosts brunch for Coast Guard Crew
Lawson's Pride of Somers Point, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, extended its gratitude to the crew of the U.S. coast Guard cutter Lawrence Lawson with a special brunch on Thursday, Dec. 5. The event provided not only a hearty meal but also entertainment for crew members and their families.
The brunch was part of Lawson's Pride's ongoing mission to support the dedicated men and women who serve aboard the Lawrence Lawson. Through events like this, the organization aims to foster a sense of community and show appreciation for the sacrifices made by coast Guard personnel and their loved ones.
Attendees enjoyed a festive atmosphere, complete with delicious food and engaging entertainment by beth Tinnon and Greg Sykora. Families had the opportunity to connect, relax, and celebrate the holiday season together.
Lawson’s Pride is a pillar of support for the coast Guard community, offering resources and events to strengthen the bond between service members and the Somers Point community. Thursday’s gathering was a testament to their commitment to honoring those who protect our shores.
For more information about Lawson's Pride and its initiatives, follow them on social media.
Enjoy your poinsettias all year long
Let
It Grow
By Tammy Thornton
With their vibrant red color, poinsettias are the most popular plant to use for decorating during the holidays. Although we associate poinsettias with christmastime, they are actually tropical plants, native to south m exico and central America. They are named after Joel roberts Poinsett, the first United States ambassador to m exico. He brought cuttings of poinsettias to the United States in the late 1820s. Poinsettias were introduced to the American public in 1829 at the first flower show of the Philadelphia Horticultural Society.
When caring for your own poinsettia, be sure to remember its tropical origins. Poinsettias cannot handle the cold and will become damaged if exposed to temperatures below 50°. Keep them in a warm, sunny area,
away from drafts but out of direct sunlight.
The colorful red (or white, pink, or marbled) parts of the plant are modified leaves called bracts, and the actual flowers are the small yellow clusters in the center, called cyathium.
Only water your poinsettia when the soil is dry. m ake sure it is well-drained after watering, because it could develop root rot if it sits in water. They often come wrapped in shiny, decorative foil, but water can pool in the bottom, so be sure to pour out any water that has accumulated. b etter yet, give your plants an elevated look by pulling off the foil and placing them in a nice ceramic pot. Just be sure the new pot has drainage holes.
Though most of us treat our poinsettias as a disposable decoration, you can keep them year-round. The
leaves (bracts) will turn green, but you can grow them as a houseplant during the year. In the summer months, they can take a field trip outdoors. Just keep them out of harsh, direct sunlight and never expose them to
cold temperatures. In order to “rebloom” the next year, your poinsettia will need a period of darkness. b eginning at the end of September, the plants must have a total blackout period of 12 hours each night for 10-12 weeks. You can achieve this by placing a box over the entire plant, being careful that the box is not touching the leaves. During the day, remove the box and place the plant back in its sunny location. b y late November, you should see new flower buds form, and the bracts should be returning to their festive colors.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
What’s happening in Ocean City
Holiday events continue throughout the month in Ocean City
Downtown merchants are celebrating “Festive Fridays” again this year.
The fun started on Nov. 29 with Ocean c ity’s traditional christmas in the Downtown – “Our miracle on Asbury Avenue” event and continued on Dec. 6 with the annual christmas Parade. Asbury Avenue will host another Festive Friday on Dec. 13 with extended shopping hours, strolling carolers, and free horse-and-carriage rides from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (with boarding at Sixth Street and 10th Street). Your favorite downtown restaurants will be serving breakfast at dinner. Dress in your pajamas, join the fun, and look for Santa to pop in. Festive Friday returns on Dec. 20.
Free horse-drawn carriage rides will also be available along decorated downtown Asbury Avenue from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays (Dec. 14, 15, 21 and 22) with boarding at Sixth Street.
One $25 button is good for all programs.
Headline entertainment at the Ocean city m usic Pier this year will include a tribute to the music of the e agles and the “Yacht rock Gold e xperience.” The return of perennial favorites like outdoor ice-skating, a magic show, a mentalist, a ventriloquist, the Harlem Wizards, Japanese drummers and a variety of other shows also highlight the entertainment lineup. The Ocean city Pops (with a rodgers & Hammerstein e xtravaganza), Yellow b rick road: A Tribute to elton John, the c ape Shore chorale, a dueling pianos performance and the Sensational Soul cruisers are among the additional musical entertainment options.
The Ocean city Theatre company’s Junior company will perform
“Anastasia: The m usical” with two shows at the Ocean c ity m usic Pier this weekend. The musical is a 60-minute adaptation of the b road -
There will be plenty of opportunities for children to visit with Santa. He’ll be available for photos in an Ocb P lifeguard boat from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays (Dec. 14, 15, 21 and 22) at the Ocean city music Pier. He’ll visit with children from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays (Dec. 14, 15, 21 and 22) at mark Soifer Park (9thStreet and Asbury Avenue).
way hit specially tailored for young actors. It features student performers in grades 3 to 8 and will transport audiences from the twilight of the russian empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past.
Shows are 7:30 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 14) and 2 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 15) at the Ocean city m usic Pier. Tickets ($15) can be purchased at www. oceancitytheatrecompany.comor at the music Pier box Office starting 30 minutes before the shows.
It’s not too early to think about celebrating the arrival of 2025 at Ocean city’s family-friendly First Night New Year’s eve celebration. All-inclusive admission buttons are on sale now.
Tickets are available:
● Online: firstnightocnj.com
● By phone: 609-3996111.
● At the City Hall Welcome Center at 861 Asbury Avenue (9th Street entrance): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
● At the Roy Gillian Welcome Center (9th Street causeway): 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. m ondays to Fridays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
New this year will be a drone light show in the sky over carey Stadium synced to music. As always, the festivities will end with a fireworks display to ring in the new year at midnight.
First Night’s 2025 sponsors include the Ocean city regional chamber of commerce, the c ape may county Division of culture and Heritage, m cmahon Insurance Agency, Ocean city Free Public Library, Uncle bill’s Pancake House and Atlantic city electric.
The festivities will continue with First Day events on Jan. 1, 2025, and
● At the 46th Street Welcome Center (4500 block of West Avenue): 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through m onday.
First Night offers more than 70 entertain programs at 20 different venues throughout town on Dec. 31.
registration is now open for the First Day 5K running race on the boardwalk: ocnj.us/O c NJ-FI r ST-DAYrUN/WALK.
complete information on First Night is available at firstnightocnj. com.
Historic tour in Ocean City puts spotlight on island’s background, preservation
By Steffen Klenk
This past Saturday, Dec. 7, the non-profit Friends of OcNJ History and culture hosted their second annual Holiday Home Tour. This three-hour self-guided tour was attended by over 500 people and featured nearly two dozen properties, consisting largely of historic inns, businesses, cottages, and private residences. The tour offered a rare opportunity to witness long-storied history in an up-close setting.
Upon arriving at Scarborough Inn, guests who signed up in advance
were provided with a map, highlighting each of the open homes and businesses on tour. At each property,
↘Continued on 35
Coastal Chateau, 6th & Atlantic
Bridget Jacobson, owner of Shoppes at the Asbury, opens the safe.
volunteers warmly welcomed guests into the building. There was an immense sense of enthusiasm from property owners, who recollected stories and interacted with the public. Attendees followed a basic set of rules: to be respectful of the hosts and their belongings, and to walk between homes as much as possible to avoid any parking hassles.
each building listed may have had its own distinct feel and architecture, but one common theme was noticed: the caretakers have put their own heart and soul into preserving history. At coastal chateau, on the corner of 6th and Atlantic, owners Lexi, Alyse, and cindi have transformed this quaint seaside cottage into a boutique hotel. Originally known as ‘croft Hall’ and ‘Atlantis Inn’, the building dates to 1905 and has been welcoming guests for well over a century.
New this year, guests could take a candle-lit stroll down Plaza Place, one of Ocean city’s historic neighborhoods. Once known as b righton e states, houses on this quaint beach-adjacent block were built between 1902 and 1958. many of its past residents have included elected officials, municipal judges, and entrepreneurs.
Other properties of note on the tour included Dollhouse row, a group
of tiny houses built in the 1920s, along with an original cottage built by the Lake family. The Tabernacle baptist church, at 8th and West, was also open, allowing guests to experience the nineteenth century architecture and stained-glass windows. even Shoppes at the Asbury, located in the lobby of the former crown bank building, opened its massive bank safe.
This event not only created new memories and friendships, but served as a reminder of Ocean city’s incredible history and the stewardship of those working to preserve it. According to Friends of OcNJ, more historic tours and events are planned for 2025, with updates to follow.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
Dollhouse Row illuminated for the season.
The Genevieve, 615 Wesley Inside the lobby of Scarborough Inn
Final thoughts from The Boardwalk Bench
By Bill Quain
Dear readers, this will be my last “Six Words on a b oardwalk b ench” column. When I began the column in may 2023, I had no idea just how many people I would reach. People now approach me (and my guide dog, Trudy) on the Ocean city boardwalk, along Asbury Avenue, at meetings, and on my walks. People have even stopped their car, rolled down the window, and shouted “I’ll see ya in the papers!” I’ve heard from friends and acquaintances not only from South Jersey, but from different parts of the country. Just a few weeks ago I received an email from a reader who had done a search, and one of my 2023 articles came up. You gotta love the Internet and those search engines!
But now, before I say goodbye…
I want to catch up on some recent feedback from my readers. These comments were in response to my Nov. 21 article about the brouhaha stirring over the Wonderland project.
Let me highlight three of them:
1. Several readers responded to my mention of the Flanders Hotel and Playland’s c astaway cove. It seems my memory didn’t quite match the facts. I reported that Playland was built on the site of the Flanders’ pools and cabanas. b ut after getting the emails and digging through histories of the area, it turns out that the pools were removed 17 years before c astaway cove rescued the site and built the amusements! In my mind, it seemed like I was swimming in the Flanders’ pool one year, and bringing my kids (now in their 30s) to ride the rides the next. my apologies for that mistake! Playland, you have many fans! Keep up the good work.
2. I received several invitations to attend meetings about the proposed “Icona in Wonderland” hotel project. Unfortunately, I was in
Florida for some of them. However, I do want to mention that it makes me proud to see our citizens and visitors so passionate about our community. I’ll be attending some of the meetings in the future. but I do want to reiterate what I said in my column – Let’s all give each other a break! It’s only been about eight weeks since Wonderland closed, and this is going to be a long haul – no matter which plans are approved or which project is accepted. I’m confident that our city officials (as well as the county and state regulators) are going to do the right thing.
3. Finally, I received several emails from people who wanted to remain anonymous (see No. 2), but wanted to share their memories of what makes this boardwalk community so special. And guess what? It’s all because of the residents and visitors who call Ocean city home. Yes, as every one of the anonymous writers stated, “Ocean city is a home.”
And now for the final goodbye
As many of you know, I am a fulltime professor at Stockton University, and I am also a speaker and author. my 28th book, “ bankrupt U,” was just released on Amazon. com, and I’m happy to report Amazon named it “#1 New release” in the “ college & education costs” category. The main reason I’m putting down my “Six Words on a boardwalk b ench” pen is that I want to focus on the many tasks of promoting the book and fielding requests for speaking engage -
SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK
BENCH by Bill Quain
ments. Over the past month or so, I realized I can’t do both – or at least, I can’t do both well. but that doesn’t mean we have to stop meeting all over town! And it doesn’t mean that I want to stop hearing from you. Please, feel free to drop me a line at bill@quain.com. my thanks to all of you, especially to cindy and bob Fertsch. It’s been an honor to write for Shore Local News. And it’s been a real pleasure to share my thoughts with all of you.
While I may no longer “see ya in the papers,” I’ll be sure to see ya’ around town – maybe even on a boardwalk bench!
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.
The library is the coolest place to be this winter! From best-selling books to workshops, and from online resources to children’s activities, the Ocean City Free Public Library has something for everyone, all season long.
Visit OceanCityLibrary.org for a complete list of events and resources.
Anastasia: The Musical at the Ocean City Music Pier
this Saturday and Sunday
“Once upon a December…” and just in time for the holidays comes, “Anastasia: The m usical” (Youth edition) presented by the Ocean city Theatre company. “Anastasia: The m usical” is a spectacular new musical about discovering who you are and defining who you’re meant to be. This 60-minute adaptation of the b roadway and cinematic hit is specially tailored for OcTc’s third to eighth grade student performers.
From Tony winners Terrence m cNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such b roadway classics as “ ragtime” and “Once On This Island,” this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the russian empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.
Watch the cast and crew of Anastasia: The m usical shine at the Ocean city m usic Pier on Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. All tickets are $15 and can be purchased at oceancitytheatrecompany.com or 30
minutes before each curtain on show days. “Anastasia: The musical” (Youth edition) is presented by arrangement with concord Theatricals.
www.oceancitylibrary.org 1735 Simpson Ave. | (609) 399-2434
HOURS Mon.-Fri. 9am-9pm Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm
CURBSIDE PICKUP Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-4pm • Sun. 11am-4pm
The 12 Days of Christmas Reading
By Marjorie Preston
‘Tis the season for holiday reading, from scary ghost stories to uplifting tales of faith, hope and charity.
Some of these stories are familiar, and some obscure—but all belong on your nice list. So curl up by the fire, pour a nice cup of cocoa, and enjoy a good old holiday readathon.
"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens. “A christmas carol” began as a rant on the social injustices of 19th century London. b ut Dickens changed course, and in six weeks created the novella that Victorians called “a new gospel.”
As the story opens, ebenezer Scrooge is a “squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous, old sinner.” but our reluctant repentant is transformed by his encounter with the spirits of christmas past, present and future. by the end,
he’s a new man—loving, giving and selfless. What a feel-good lesson for the holidays!
"A Child’s Christmas in Wales" by Dylan Thomas. In this evocative tale, the great Welsh poet describes christmas through the eyes of a boy, for whom every snowy day is filled with wonder.
The Library of congress praises “A child’s christmas” as “a near
tone-poem of childhood remembrances, wintry images and vintage dreams.” In 1952, Thomas recorded a version of the work in New York city. read this one aloud, for the lilting beauty of the language.
"Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott. “christmas won’t be christmas without any presents.” So begins chapter 1 of Alcott’s literary classic.
In the depths of the civil War, the march sisters anticipate a dismal holiday. Their father, an Army chaplain, is far away tending the wounded. Their careworn mother has little money for gifts or a fine repast. When the girls are surprised with a bountiful breakfast, everyone gets into the spirit, and m eg, Jo, b eth and Amy donate the feast to a poor family.
While “Little Women” is not strictly a christmas story, the first chapter stands alone as the perfect holiday parable.
"The Greatest Gift" by Philip Van Doren Stern. If you love “It’s a Wonderful Life,” you’ll love the source material.
Author Stern self-published the story for a small readership of friends and family. According to legend, it then fell into the hands of a movie executive, who turned it into the 1946 screen classic.
Surprisingly, Frank c apra’s film version, with James Stewart as frustrated family man George bailey and Henry Travers as the befuddled angel clarence, was not a hit when it was first released. but it gained in stature over the years, and is now a christmas mainstay.
"A Christmas Story" by Jean Shepherd. This nostalgic yarn takes us back to the 1940s, as young ralphie schemes for the one gift that seems just out of reach: a red r yder carbine-action bb gun.
Thanks to the 1983 film, the tale has become an enduring favorite, memorable for its schoolyard skirmishes, the immortal leg lamp and of course, chinese turkey. “A christmas Story” originated as part of the 1966 book “In God We Trust: All Others Pay c ash,” by American humorist Shepherd, who also narrated the film.
"The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry. In tough economic times, a young husband and wife sell the most valuable things they own to buy christmas gifts for each other. She sells her long hair to a wigmaker, and he pawns his gold watch. everyone knows the sentimental twist: she buys a chain for his watch, which he no longer owns, and he buys combs for her hair, which has been shorn. but the devoted couple looks ahead to a brighter future.
This sweetheart of a story has inspired many adaptations, including tongue-in-cheek episodes of The Simpsons and Family Guy. Once, Saturday Night Live did a parody in which Donald and Ivana Trump (Phil Hartman and Jan Hooks) sold their most cherished belongings— m ar-a-Lago and the Trump Princess yacht—to buy presents for each other.
"A Christmas Memory" by Truman Capote. Fruitcake is a holiday tradition for seven-year-old b uddy, who helps his elderly cousin bake dozens of the whisky-filled confections for friends, neighbors—and the roosevelts!
It’s the Depression, and too poor to buy gifts for each other, the two end up exchanging hand-made paper kites. This poignant story is based on c apote’s boyhood in rural Alabama, where he was raised by older relatives including his “best friend,” cousin Sook.
Originally published in mademoiselle magazine, “A christmas m emory” reminds us that the humblest gifts
are sometimes the most precious, if they’re given with love.
"Miracle on 34th Street" by Valentine Davies. In this case, the movie preceded the book. b oth were inspired by a real-life incident, in which author Davies witnessed an encounter between a mother, a child and a man who believed he was Santa claus.
In the fictional version, the jolly old elf puts his delusions to good use, working as Santa at macy’s department store until skeptical grown-ups try to have him put away. All seems lost until the U.S. Postal Service becomes Kris Kringle’s unwitting ally, and the world acknowledges that yes, Virginia, there really is a Santa claus, as long as you believe.
"The Christmas Kid" by Pete Hamill. In this anthology, Hamill writes with aching poignancy of “that lost city of memory,” the b rooklyn of his youth. This collection of short stories begins with “The christmas Kid”—namely Lev Augstein, a young Jewish boy orphaned by the Holocaust.
Sent to the America to live with a bachelor uncle, Lev finds a new family among the rough-and-tumble street kids of New York, who learn to accept him despite his strange accent and the numbers inscribed on his arm.
You’ll laugh and cry at “The christmas Kid,” which is ultimately redemptive, and often warmly funny as well.
"A Visit from Saint Nicholas" by Clement Clark Moore. m oore’s famous poem created a prototype of Saint Nick that we honor to this day: a “jolly old elf” with snowy whiskers, a pack on his back, and a predilection for entering the house vertically, through the chimney.
The verse, also known as “The Night before christmas,” introduced those eight tiny reindeer—Dasher, Dancer, et al—and the tradition of hanging stockings for Santa to fill with goodies. First published on December 23, 1823, in the Troy, New York Sentinel, “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” has become so familiar, many of us can recite it by heart.
"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" by Robert L. May. In 1939, m ay was a catalog copywriter for m ontgomery Ward co. when he was assigned to create a holiday coloring book.
He was stumped until a storm rolled in. Gazing out his office window at a gathering fog, he came up with the idea of rudolph (originally rollo, then reginald) and his blinking beacon.
may said rudolph was inspired by Hans christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling.” both stories remind us to
look beneath the surface to see the beauty inside.
"How the Grinch Stole Christmas" by Dr. Seuss. Just thinking of this wonderful kids’ book brings to mind the 1967 animated special, narrated by the inimitable boris Karloff, with the amazing voice actor Thurl ravenscroft singing, “You’re a m ean One, mister Grinch.”
Like other Dr. Suess’s stories, this one is like a spoonful of sugar: funny on the outside, with a worthy lesson tucked inside. At first the Grinch, like our old friend Scrooge, tries to steal christmas from the less-fortunate in Whoville. but once he learns a lesson about love, he returns it to them in spades.
"Christmas Day in the Morning" by Pearl S. Buck. It’s christmas eve, and a farmer’s son named rob has no gift for his father. rob decides to show his appreciation in a practical way, by rising early to do one of the old man’s toughest chores.
This simple fable by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of “The Good earth” will move you with its simplicity.
"A Redbird Christmas" by Fannie Flagg. A chicago man facing a grim diagnosis decides to spend his final days in a small Southern town called Lost river. There he finds friendship, community and hope among the
quirky townspeople, and forges special bonds with a crippled girl named Patsy and an injured cardinal named Jack.
Told with Flagg’s trademark warmth and humor, this charming tale will tug at your heartstrings.
"The Christmas Tugboat" by George Matteson and Adele Ursone. This picture book is a treat for kids and grownups alike. Vividly illustrated by James e . ransome, “The christmas Tugboat” tells how the rockefeller christmas tree once traveled by tugboat to New York city.
Told from the viewpoint of the boat captain’s son, it’s ideal for sharing around your own christmas tree. many years ago at christmastime, I stopped at an historic baltimore inn where guests took turns reading holiday stories by a blazing fire.
This season, why not start a family tradition to read aloud with loved ones? begin with these stories, and add your own favorites. enjoy the holidays!
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.
Santa arrives in style at OC Parade
Photos by Steffen Klenk
The chill of a frosty December night couldn’t
nual
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 b abyface to engelbert Humperdinck. There’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to share your epic moments with the hashtags #shorelocal, #gotowhitney and #thecitypulse.
Who: John eddie ‘Holiday Ho Ho Hoedown’
Where: resorts casino Hotel | Superstar Theater
When: Friday, Dec. 13
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: https://resortsac.com/ entertainment/john-eddie/ This performance marks the return of John’s Annual Holiday Party and its new home after a four-year hiatus. John will be joined by his big, bad Dirty Ole band and special guests.
Who: babyface
Where: Tropicana’s Showroom Atlantic city
When: Friday, Dec. 13
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: https://www.atlanticcitynj.com/ events/event-list/babyface/ Get your tickets to see b abyface perform live.
What: Tinseltown ‘Spirit of Giving’ Toy Drive for Toys for Tots
Where: cardinal
When: Friday, Dec. 13
Time: 9-11 p.m.
Website: cardinal-ac.com/tinseltown celebrate the spirit of giving with cardinal and some of Atlantic city’s favorite guest bartenders. b ring an unwrapped toy to share with local children and every donation will go directly to Toys for Tots.
The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman
What: ‘ my big Gay Italian christmas’
Where: Hard rock Hotel & casino | Sound Waves
When: Friday, Dec. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 14
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/my-big-gayitalian-christmas
‘ my big Gay Italian christmas’ brings the holidays into the mix and continues the adventures of the Pinnuziato Family. It has all of the ingredients of a hilarious night out.
Who: The marshall Tucker band with Jefferson Starship - Live on cloud 9 Tour
Where: caesars Atlantic city
When: Saturday, Dec. 14
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: caesars.com/caesars-ac/ shows
The marshall Tucker band with Jef-
ferson Starship will bring the Live On cloud 9 Tour to circus maximus Theater at caesars Atlantic city.
Who: engelbert Humperdinck ‘A Winter World of Love’
Where: Harrah’s resort Atlantic city | The concert Venue
When: Saturday, Dec. 14
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: caesars.com/harrahs-ac/ shows
engelbert Humperdinck is bringing a ‘Winter World of Love’ to the concert Venue at Harrah’s resort Atlantic city.
What: King of the Table 13 Arm Wrestling Showdown
Where: bally’s Grand ballroom 6th Floor
When: Saturday, Dec. 14
Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Website: tickettailor.com/events/
coresports/1469190
This is the biggest KOTT yet. The headlining match will feature the colossal clash between Jerry cadorette and Levan Saginashvili, an epic contest which arm wrestling enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting. Adding to the excitement are strongmen legends b rian Shaw and eddie beast Hall will face-off in their arm wrestling debut.
Who: marky ramones Holiday blitzkrieg-Playing the ramones’ classics
Where: Tropicana
When: Saturday, Dec. 14
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: caesars.com/tropicana-ac/ shows
marky ramone is bringing the Holiday b litzkrieg and playing the ramones classics in the Tropicana Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic city.
What: breakfast with Santa Where: Historic Smithville | Fred & ethel’s
When: Saturday, Dec. 14
Time: 9-11 a.m.
Website: eventbrite.com
Delicious food, festive fun and pho -
tos with Santa. enjoy a kid-friendly breakfast. children under 3 are Free but please add them to your ticket for seating purposes.
What: reed’s Farm Holiday m akers market in collaboration with Garden State Flea markets
Where: reed’s Farm
When: Saturday, Dec. 14
Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Website: eventbrite.com
Local vendors, wood-fired pizza, coffee, vintage candy and features more than 40 of the area’s most talented artists, crafters, artisans, makers and growers.
What: rainforest c afe’s b reakfast with Santa Where: rainforest café
When: Sunday, Dec. 15
Time: 9 a.m.
Website: eventbrite.com
enjoy a delicious plated breakfast, write letters to Santa and get your picture taken with Santa.
What: Nutcracker
Where: caesars Atlantic city
When: Sunday, Dec. 15
Time: 7 p.m.
Website: acballet.org/Nutcracker
"The Nutcracker," one of ballet’s treasured classics, will take place at caesars Atlantic city. There’s no better way to spend the holidays with family and friends than by sharing in this Atlantic city ballet production.
What: Tinseltown market
Where: Tennessee Avenue
When: Sunday, Dec. 15
Time: Noon-4 p.m.
Tennessee Avenue’s pop-up Tinseltown m arket offers a shopping adventure that sparks the magic of the season. This festive event will span the entire Tennessee Avenue block and showcase a variety of unique local vendors. For those interested in participating as a vendor, contact info@ tennave.com for more information.
What: christmas in concert
Where: borgata Hotel casino & Spa
When: Various days until Tuesday, Dec. 24
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.
What: The Irish Pub christmas Spectacular
Where: The Irish Pub
When: Now thru Jan. 6
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: theirishpub.com
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 c asino 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 casino resort
When: every Saturday until Dec. 21
Time: 11a.m.-9 p.m.
e xperience Ocean c asino resort’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.
What: bar 32 christmas e xperience Where: bar 32 on Tennessee Avenue
When: The whole month of December
Website: www.bar32chocolate.com
Step into bar 32 to enjoy dazzling decorations, decadent desserts, and signature cocktails, all crafted by the one and only mama chocolate.
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!
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ICE SKATING / HOLIDAY MARKETS / GRINCH'S VILLAGE BAR BUDDY'S SWEET SHOPPE / FIREPITS, IGLOOS, CABIN CABANAS, ALPINE CHALETS HOLIDAY LIGHT TUNNEL / BARREL & TRACTOR RIDES
By Julia Train
Queen Jayne's at Passion Vines opened in may 2023 as a way for michael bray, owner of Passion Vines, to connect with his customers more.
The story behind Queen Jayne’s is rooted in b ray’s long-standing passion for hospitality, wine and community connections. He recognized that the brief interactions typical of retail environments didn’t allow him to form deeper connections with customers, so he decided to expand the store.
“The average time we get to spend with [customers] is anywhere between five, and if you're lucky, maybe 10 minutes. And so what we wanted, and always envisioned, was a place where we could slow the guests down,” he said.
b ray said his goal was to turn a customer into a guest — where a quick transaction turns into an hourlong experience where people can engage, connect and enjoy a glass of wine together.
The establishment’s name, “Queen Jayne's,” carries a personal meaning for bray.
Inspired by b ob Dylan’s song, “Queen Jane Approximately,” the name is also a tribute to b ray's late mother, Jayne, who was born “Jane,” but added a “Y” in high school.
“About a decade ago, I started calling my mom— as a result of my love for bob Dylan and the song entitled ‘Queen Jane Approximately,’ I started calling my mom Queen Jayne,” he said.
b ray’s mother passed away in June 2022 from multiple sclerosis,
Queen Jayne's offers an elevated experience for guests.
and at the time, the bar was under construction and nameless.
“One day, it struck me that perhaps ‘Queen Jayne’s’ was a fit,” he said. “I bought the domain name, QueenJaynes.com, just so that it was protected and I let it sit for probably a couple months until it began to feel right.”
b ray’s committed to providing the same core values through his businesses: high-quality products, hospitality and a passion for raising awareness for multiple sclerosis, which bray’s mother was diagnosed with in 1990.
Traveling while sitting at the bar
“It's a space that allows you to transport to a different place. I've often said that one of the reasons why I love wine is because it's the fastest way to travel in a glass. And so now, this space takes you there equally as fast,” bray said.
Queen Jayne’s at Passion Vines aims to deliver that sense of escape not just through the beverages, but also through its carefully designed space. The atmosphere is both luxurious and comfortable, blending the elegance of a city cocktail bar with the relaxed vibe of a neighborhood gathering spot.
b ray said visitors often say they feel like they’re in a “swanky hotel lobby bar,” with some even likening it to the speakeasies of Los Angeles.
The “royal drinkery” features a bar, high-top tables and cozy lounge seating—all designed to make patrons feel like they’ve stepped into another world. The experience is topped off with service that bray prides himself on.
“We love the products we sell, but what we really love is how and why we do it,” he said. “Our mission is really to deliver a level 10 hospitality and service experience coupled with the product, which is a premier cocktail bar.”
Service is prioritized, with the goal of creating an unforgettable experience for every guest.
Queen Jayne’s cocktail menu reflects this commitment to quality, featuring spirit-forward drinks crafted with fresh, natural ingredients.
In addition to its regular cocktail menu, Queen Jayne’s also offers a seasonal experience called
“The Frosted crown,” a pop-up bar with holiday-themed drinks designed by the bartending team.
Queen Jayne’s at Passion Vines is open Wednesday through Saturday, with happy hour specials every day 4-6 p.m. and live music on most Thursdays.
Right now, Queen Jayne's has a pop-up bar, “The Frosted Crown,” that is offering holiday-themed cocktails.
John Eddie’s coming ho-ho-home for the holidays
By Chuck Darrow
In our recent roundup of holiday-facing entertainment in the casinos, we suggested that John eddie’s “Holiday Ho-HoHoedown” at resorts casino-Hotel was probably worth checking out thanks to the program’s unusual title.
b ut we were intrigued enough by the branding that we felt further investigation was required. A recent phone call to eddie at his Nashville home resulted in the acquisition of a few details about Friday’s Yuletide-flavored rave-up at resorts.
“We're just gonna try and bring some specialness to it,” offered eddie, who spent his musically formative years in cherry Hill and nurtured his career along the Jersey Shore, most notably Asbury Park where, on a several occasions, he was joined onstage by bruce Springsteen.
“We have Joe Sweeney, my old guitar player from the Front Street runners [his first band] playing, and Jeff Levine on keyboards. And besides our regular show, we're gonna be playing my first album [1986’s self-titled LP on the columbia records label] in its entirety in order. So it's gonna be for the old South Jersey-Philly- Delaware crowd—the faithful fans who've supported us over all these years.
“ but the rest of the show's gonna be stuff from the last few albums and some christmas songs, and it's gonna be fun.”
As for the set’s seasonal elements, eddie divulged nothing at all when we spoke a couple weeks ago. It’s not that he was being coy, but that he and his musicians had yet to address that part of the repertoire.
“That's what we're figuring out right now,” he advised. “I have one that I wrote called ‘Another Lonely christmas,’ that we have to play, but there's only so many [holiday tunes] that bands of my ilk do, like [chuck berry’s] ‘ run, run, rudolph’ and stuff like that. but we're working on it. We're actually rehearsing for this show!”
eddie is famous in his circles for his self-deprecating sense of humor,
SUNDAY, MONDAY & TUESDAY
which is why it was no surprise he responded with a hearty chuckle when it was suggested to him that such due diligence on the part of him and his band might fall under the “christmas miracle” category.
eddie will be performing on Atlantic city’s most historic casino-era stage, following in the footsteps of such show business giants as Frank Sinatra, Tony bennett, Sammy Davis Jr., Johnny carson, Diana ross and even Jackie Gleason who, in November, 1978, was there to tape an hourlong The Honeymooners special.
“That's a big thrill,” he said. “And it's very cool. They have some memorabilia there in the halls, and it’s a big deal. I actually dig it. It's an honor; I know it sounds cheesy to say that, but we've played other places in Atlantic city, but there's something really special about playing there. The sound, the stage, the lights, everything about it is first-class. And [last April] the people at resorts treated us great. So we appreciate that too. I hope it's something we do every year.”
Actually, eddie’s Superstar Theater gig is just the first part of Friday’s agenda. As he did in April at resorts, he’ll be keeping the party going with a post-gig solo acoustic set at Dougherty’s Steakhouse & raw bar from 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
These days, music is almost more of a side hustle for eddie than a vocation. That’s because he has formed a creative partnership with Priscilla Presley that has resulted in two elvis Presley-focused projects for Netflix: Last year’s "Agent elvis", an animated series that reimagined the immortal pop star as a heroic crime fighter, and " return of the King: The Fall and rise
of elvis Presley", which debuted last month. It’s a fascinating documentary about the seven-year stretch between elvis’ return from the Army and his legendary December 1968 “comeback” special on N bc-TV—the event that launched the final (continuous touring) phase of his career that ended with his Aug. 16, 1977 death. currently, eddie is working to launch another, non- elvis, TV project. He didn’t want to elaborate on it publicly, but he did allow that it’s a sitcom based on the life of a country-music megastar who, in the manner of Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David, will portray a comedically heightened version of himself.
While he has enough TV-industry experience to know that nothing is ever a mortal lock—especially these days— eddie is confident the parties being pitched will find it a “no-brainer” and the series will see the light of day.
For tickets, go to ticketmaster.com.
Carmine’s hits 20 congrats and a tip of the rigatoni to carmine’s Italian restaurant at The Quarter inside Tropicana Atlantic city which, yesterday, was scheduled to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark its 20th anniversary.
Over the past two decades, the eatery has established itself as one of Aycee’s most-popular dining destinations. It also stands as one of the longest-running culinary outposts of the legal-casino era.
Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.
Atlantic City is a Christmas wonderland worth exploring
By Scott Cronick
Atlantic city might not be the first place you think about visiting to soak in the holiday spirit, but it’s a winter wonderland certainly worth exploring … especially for adults.
After a successful parade on the boardwalk and the second year of the Tinseltown Holiday experience programming, visitors are beginning to notice.
The casinos, in particular, go all out for the holidays. Here’s my list of must-see and must-do things that I am aware of in Atlantic city that you can still take advantage of.
Tropicana shines
Perhaps of all the casinos in town, the Tropicana casino & resort offers a spectacular holiday experience, and in my opinion offers the most attractions under one roof for the holidays. And, as long as I can remember, it has always stood out thanks to the late Dennis Gomes’ vision.
President Joe Giunta continues that long-term vision by expanding that vision over the years, including
an aggressive holiday campaign for 2024.
Let’s start in Palm court, the main walkway through the casino area, where the most beautiful tree in Atlantic city stands. It’s a 25-foot-tall christmas tree made entirely out of fresh poinsettias. Yes, they are real. 800 of them! And they are constantly being cared for and changed out for the season by Parker Plants, a North Jersey operation that also has other poinsettias and flowers adorning everywhere you look.
Then head to The Quarter, where another massive, more traditional christmas tree serves as an amazing photo opportunity right in front of all of the restaurants, including carmine’s, P.F. chang’s, broadway burger and more.
Not only does this gorgeous tree look awesome on its own, but there is a sound-and-light show that happens at the top of every hour that really brings the holiday spirit in full measure.
Then there’s the holiday-themed bar Holidaze, which transforms Tango’s Lounge into a winter wonderland complete with decorations, a reindeer with The Grinch as a passenger, candy canes floating from the ceiling and holiday movies and programs like “ elf” and my stop-motion-animated favorite “Santa claus is comin’ to Town” gracing all of the flat-screen televisions throughout the space.
Tropicana is also the casino destination with the most options to indulge. Whether you party at Kiss Kiss Nightclub or Gin rickey’s, want some m exican to break things up at c asa Taco, dance the night away at boogie Nights – which always has themed performers for the holidays – take in a comedy show at royce Social Hall or whet your whistle at Wet Willie’s,
there is no shortage of things to do. It's also a one-stop shop so you can cross some people off your shopping list. check out the new Diamond District jewelry store, grab a bottle at A Time for Wine, choose some clothing from francesca’s, The Dean, marshall rousso, White House/black m arket and many others. You can even find some candy and saltwater taffy at the historic James’ Saltwater Taffy.
restaurants are abundant, as well.
Standouts include Il Verdi, the stunning, relatively new Italian restaurant overlooking the ocean. They have an amazing Feast of the Seven Fishes dinner on christmas eve that is an amazing deal: Five courses for $84.99!
Selections include fried calamari, steamers and antipasta for appetizers; a variety of salads for the second course; a pasta course including choices of cavatelli with jumbo crab
and pancetta and rigatoni bolognese; an entrée course with choices ranging from seared salmon with lump crab to shrimp piccata to flounder Francaise to filet mignon; and an Italian pastry sampler to end things the right way. c armine’s is another one of my faves. Located in The Quarter, they go all out decorating the space, and it’s truly a place to celebrate with the family.
And don’t leave without having a craft brew, some seafood and crabFries from chickie’s & Pete’s, especially if the games are on. There’s also some holiday-themed shows in Trop’s awesome showroom to check out, including babyface’s annual r&b , holiday-themed show on Dec. 13, and marky ramone’s Holiday b litzkrieg — playing the ramones’ classics and some punked-up holiday tunes — on Dec. 14.
And, there is only one movie theater in Atlantic city — and it’s a big one. The I mAX at the Trop will have all of the big new releases for the holiday season and, as usual, will bring back the Tom Hanks classic “Polar e xpress” for limited showings.
To make things even more attractive, there are winter room rates as low as $40 on select nights. So, make it a staycation!
Ocean riding the holiday wave
Ocean c asino resort has been building every year to give the Trop a run for its money. The most stunning casino in Atlantic city oozes class in every way, and their holiday
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Tropicana's 25-foot-tall Christmas tree made entirely out of fresh poinsettias
Ocean Casino Resort's Santa’s Hideaway Adventure is a magical experience where you enter a virtual elevator that takes you and your family to the North Pole to meet the man of the hour himself for some great photo opportunities.
The Quarter's massive Christmas tree boasts a sound-and-light show that happens at the top of every hour.
decorations and programming are impressive to say the least.
Perhaps the coolest thing to experience is Santa’s Hideaway Adventure, a magical experience where you enter a virtual elevator that takes you and your family to the North Pole where you land at Santa’s workshop to meet the man of the hour himself for some great photo opportunities. It’s an absolute blast.
Ocean was also the first in town to debut holiday-themed rooms, and they are upping the ante this year with more options. rooms in a variety of styles and suites are available to be booked. When you arrive, the
entire floor is decorated with lights and other attractions. Once you enter your room, you will find holiday decorations, a christmas tree and more festive décor. New this year: the mean Green Holiday Suite inspired by The Grinch.
every week, Hank Sauce on Dec. 14, N c Woodworks every week, Santa’s Sweet Shop every week, e xhale Spa & bathhouse every week, and more.
If you like Italian food, check out Linguini by the Sea, which has been transformed into a winter wonderland with a snowy winter landscape.
And don’t forget the Jingle b ell bar, one of the most awesomely holiday-themed bars full of festive lights, trees, drink specials, live piano music, TVs with christmas shows plus Winter Wonderland-themed drinks. It is open until New Year’s eve.
every Saturday, Ocean is also offering a Holiday Village from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at its Shops at the row. About 8 or so extra vendors will join the other shops for a great holiday retail experience with special focuses each weekend, including b lissfully Liss Jewelry on Dec. 21, 2 chicks with chocolate every week, making Waves boutique on Dec. 14, The card capital sports cards and memorabilia
Celebrate the Holidays in the W ildwoods!
5 WEEKENDS OF HOLIDAY FUN
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
Finally, there’s a slew of Ocean merch that has been holiday-themed and is available on ShopOceanAC. com , with select gifts also available at Ocean’s Holiday Village and bottled. From Ocean snow globes to holiday ornaments, plus a special Ugly Sweater collaboration with Tipsy elves, and other over-the top holiday attire like the specialty m ean Green holiday socks, there’s something for everyone on your holiday list at Ocean.
Where else can you hear the Jingle Bells?
While Trop and Ocean may top Santa’s list, all of the casinos have plenty to check out and celebrate.
Resorts Casino Hotel: resorts always has an awesome seasonally-themed bar, and this year is no different as the candy cane Lounge is back in all its holiday splendor. Great drink concoctions and over-the-top decorations makes it worth a holiday bar crawl stop.
resorts is also decked out with festive trees and larger-than-life ornaments everywhere you look.
On Dec. 13, the stellar John eddie will bring his Holiday Ho Ho Hoedown to the Superstar Theater, offering his rock standards and some holiday twists.
On Dec. 21, check out the c andlelight Holiday Special featuring the Nutcracker and more for a multisensory experience by candlelight in the Superstar Theater.
Caesar's Horse Dive Bar is themed after the historic diving horse at Steel Pier, and is now featuring some holiday drink specials.
featuring breathtaking costumes, choreography and musical arrangements, on Dec. 12. r& b superstar John Legend will bring his A John Legend christmas on Dec. 20. And Grammy Award-winning musician m ark Tremonti will offer Tremonti Sings Sinatra — christmas classics New and Old on Dec. 21. m y favorite A.c . chef — Aram m ardigian — will do another Savor borgata Lunch and Learn event noon Dec. 14, when he will prepare some of his personal seasonal favorites during an interactive cooking demonstration. complemented by wine, enjoy a multi-course lunch while taking a flavor-filled journey through the ingredients and preparation of specialty dishes certain to impress at your next at-home dinner party. Tickets are $69 per person.
The Landshark bar offers a holiday pop-up experience where you can visit caribbean Santa for some photo ops, so if you like your feet in the sand as opposed to the snow, this is where to go.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa: You can always count on borgata’s foyer after you get off the self-park elevators to offer gorgeous flowers and plants. And their winter/holiday beautification planter is off the charts this holiday and worth the visit alone.
They have some great holiday entertainment planned, including christmas In concert, a magical celebration of the holiday season that treats the audience to an exciting performance of holiday classics
Caesars Atlantic City: Another perennially gorgeous place to check out for the holidays, the decorations start right in front of the property on Pacific Avenue, where caesar and his chariot have some wreaths and other festive decorations. Inside, the newly renovated lobby looks stunning with decorations and a giant christmas tree that is meticulously dressed. If there is a show you want to see this holiday season, it’s The Hook, Spiegelworld’s fantastic variety show that added some festive costumes as well as some additional acts to get you in the holiday spirit. The for-adults-only, risque show is always a blast, but for the holidays, they added a new hula hoop act and more. make sure you have some awesome over-the-top Italian food from its backstage restaurant Superfrico, and stop by the Horse Dive bar, the coolest themed bar in town modeled after the historic diving horse at Steel Pier, which has been really decorated for the holidays and features some holiday drink specials.
And if you are a fan of The Nutcracker, there is no better place to
catch it than c aesars on Dec. 15, when the Atlantic city ballet once again performs the timeless classic in the Kingdom of Snow and the Land of Sweets with young clara.
Harrah’s Atlantic City: entertainment is the name of the game here for the holidays. Start off with a legend — engelbert Humperdinck — as the crooner offers A Winter World of Love featuring his classics and some holiday tunes. Harrah’s also does an amazing job of making the place look festive, including its gorgeous lobby and eden Lounge, where you can always catch some great music.
Speaking of the eden Lounge, it has been transformed into a themed holiday bar called the Tipsy elf, and it’s one of the more elaborate bar transformations with creative themed drinks.
Golden Nugget: rise up the escalators from where you park and you are transported into a beautiful winter wonderland as the giant foyer has been adorned for the holidays with ornaments, trees and more.
If you are a spa fan, there is a holiday spa special happening called the Warm Vanilla bourbon massage that includes complimentary Hot Stone add-on the foot or back for 50 minutes for $150. This gentle kneading is complete with a blend from a delicious body oil lightly scented with warm notes of m adagascar vanilla and a dash of Texas distilled bourbon. Skin drinks in the jojoba seed oil and cocoa seed butter - adding the hydration factor into this massage and some pizzazz to skin's holiday glimmer.
One of the few places offering Feast of the Seven Fishes in town, the chart House is an awesome choice for christmas eve dinner. Overlooking the bay and the Atlantic city skyline, the feast is a deal for $75 and includes a traditional Italian holiday dinner with items including flounder Francese, seared chilean sea bass, seared scallops, shrimp bruschetta, crispy calamari and cannoli for dessert.
And the hot spot is always rush Lounge, which is also nicely decorated and features holiday drink specials with live entertainment on weekends., with a rat Pack theme for the season.
Bally’s Atlantic City: bally’s was the home for a Tinseltown Atlantic city tree lighting, so make sure you head outside and check out the beautiful tree near The Yard. Once inside, the beauty continues, particularly on the Sixth Floor Dining Level, where all of the restaurants are sharing the spirit in a big way.
Speaking of The Yard, head there 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Dec. 14 for their Ugly Sweater contest, which will feature the casino giving away a whopping $1,500 in cash and prizes! You could snag $1,000 in cash and prizes for being the ultimate sweater champion, plus $250 in cash and prizes for 2nd and 3rd place winners.
Phil’s carousel bar — named after legendary executive, the late Phil Juliano — is also adorned beautifully and renamed the Holiday cheer PopUp bar, and the great food and beverage staff assembled a nice holiday drink menu, including a Peppermint espresso martini and cousin eddie’s Nog. Phil would be proud!
For the gamblers out there, check out the $75,000 bally rewards Holiday Drawing, including a $37,500 edition on Dec. 21 where 10 winners will be picked from 5 to 11 p.m.
The brand-new, stunning Park Place Prime Steakhouse is the place to go on christmas Day. Why cook when you can indulge in surf and turf — a wood-grilled, 5-ounce filet with crab cakes, wine demi, chipotle aioli and fingerling potatoes — for $70?!
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City: The Hard rock, well … rocks of course for the holiday season. The greatest lobby bar in town has been transformed to the rockin' Holiday bar and is open through Dec. 28 with festive décor, specialty cocktails and the best cover band lineup in the city.
On Dec. 13, the rockin’ Holiday bar will offer a country christmas Party featuring the incredible Austin city Nights, a high-energy country band. check out the Sugar cookie martini.
council Oak Steaks & Seafood will offer a pastry series, this one titled Gingerbread cottages, noon Dec. 14. Unleash your inner architect and join the delightful gingerbread cottage assembly class. Dive into a world of creativity as you decorate your petite masterpiece with seasonal delights like royal icing, chocolate, and an array of candies. b uild memories and a cute-as-heck gingerbread cottage to display proudly or devour with joy.
On the entertainment side, the hilarious play m y b ig Gay Italian
c hristmas comes to the Sound Waves on Dec. 13 and 14. my b ig Gay Italian christmas brings the holidays into the mix for the continuing adventures of the Pinnuziato family. This time, it’s christmas and on the menu is a bisexual love triangle, heated political conversations run amuck, over-thetop characters and a crushing snowstorm ... all of the perfect ingredients for a hilarious night out. m erry christmas everyone!
Scott Cronick is an awardwinning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades. He hosts a daily radio show – "Off The Press with Scott Cronick" - 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com, and he also coowns Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall in Atlantic City, while working on various projects, including charitable efforts, throughout the area. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.
We n e e d e d t h i s .
S o m e r s P o i n t ’ s h a p p i e s t h o u r.
The Candy Cane Lounge is back in all its holiday splendor with great drink concoctions and over-the-top decorations.
Explore the Charm of The Inn on St. Louis: Egg Harbor City’s Historic Neighborhood Tavern
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.
Much 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 restaurants in South Jersey, dating back to the late 1800s when the Roesch Family owned and operated the Inn as the John Roesch Hotel. Built 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.
gathered on the front porch of the Inn during the early 1900s
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 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 Roesch’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.”
As of late 2023, local resident, Anna Walker, 84, recalled her friendshipwith Sorg’s daughter, Peggy (deceased) and hanging out on the property. She recalled Mrs. 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 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 Breder 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 Munsters, 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, Carl 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 McKee purchased the Inn and the successful era of McKee’s Irish Pub began.
In 2011, McKee sold the property to Tom and Bonnie 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 Ryan 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.
Musicians
Friday,
Saturday, December
The
Harrah’s
Marky
Saturday, December 21 Earth,
Giorgos
Friday,
Earth,
The
Friday, December
Pitbull ▶8
Hard
Saturday, December 28
Pitbull ▶8
Hard
Tuesday,
Saturday, January
Sidewalk
Pitbull is set to perform at Hard Rock on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Photo credit: Pitbull Facebook
Live & Local Music Calendar
Thursday, December 12
Absecon
Reddog’s Hi Point Pub
Funky boys
8 – 11 p.m.
5 N. Shore rd.
Atlantic City
Council Oak at Hard Rock
chris Farrell
5:30 – 9 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
DJ Jason e
8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Dane Anthony
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Gab cinque band
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
Gregory’s
bob & bob
6 p.m.
900 Shore rd.
Josie Kelly’s
A Tony mart christmas
7:30 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Queen Jayne’s
SKJ Duo
6 – 9 p.m.
264 New rd.
Friday, December 13
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Steven Luhmann
6 p.m.
Kristina Pruitt
9:15 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
Ghost mart w/ DJ Johnny Fones, Architrave, Dead cool. 8 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Candy Cane Lane at Resorts
DJ Ahmed
9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
1133 boardwalk
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Luke carlos O’ reilly 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
brandon Ireland Duo
7 p.m.
Stealing Savannah
10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
camille K Trio
6 p.m.
Tragic remedy
10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
The Loop
5 – 8:30 p.m.
Austin city Nights
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
The Wave at Golden Nugget
Flashback Friday: New York’s Finest: The Police Tribute. 9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
TopGolf at Ocean Casino
Kelli & DJ Trish. 7 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino
The Lenehan band
8:30 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
chris Yoder Duo
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
500 St. Andrews Dr.
Margate
Bocca
Lovelight Trio
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s
Troy Kaiser
8 p.m.
316 roosevelt blvd.
Millville
Levoy Theatre
Top of the World: A carpenters christmas Show
7:30 p.m.
126-130 N. High St.
Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light chad miller
7 – 10 p.m.
1 N. New York rd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay Turtleheads band
8 p.m.
450 bay Ave. ↘Continued on 62
Crab Trap
Lew London. 6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Saturday, December 14
Absecon
Reddog’s Hi Point Pub
Glenn erik
9 p.m.
5 N. Shore rd.
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Jeremy Oren
6 p.m.
Dominick martino
9:15 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
Low cut connie w/ billy Walton band
8 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Candy Cane Lane at Resorts
Jexxa
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Gary
9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
1133 boardwalk
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Dan Jost 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
camille K & Vahe
7 p.m.
Usual Suspects
10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Late Last Night
5 p.m.
Lauralea & Tripp Fabulous
10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Parrot beach
4 – 6 p.m.
Isn’t it Always
7 – 10 p.m.
Turning the Tide
12:30 – 2 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Topgolf at Ocean Casino
Sceneior citizens Trio
8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino
Andrew m oorer band
8:30 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Margate
Bocca
cJ Sooy
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s
Atley m oon and the Say Somethings
8 p.m.
316 roosevelt blvd.
Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light
Jim commander
7 – 10 p.m.
1 N. New York rd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Sindi raymond band
4 – 7 p.m.
99 reasons
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Lew London
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Gregory’s Live DJ
9 p.m.
900 Shore rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
rock This Town christmas Spectacular. 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
217 e main St.
Waretown
Albert Music Hall
Singin’ with Santa Show w/ Santa’s band (redbird & Friends), burnt Tavern, Andy Koontz & b ill O’Neal, James Dalton, George Zeo & Family
6 – 9 p.m.
131 Wells mills rd.
Sunday, December 15
Atlantic City
Candy Cane Lane at Resorts
DJ eric
3 – 8 p.m.
DJ Proud
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1133 boardwalk
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Adriana markano
5:30 – 9 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Dueling Pianos. 8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Lightheaded
11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Millville
Levoy Theatre
Twelve Twenty Four. 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 16
Atlantic City
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock bergen boys. 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 17
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 18
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
michael Stevens
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Who bought the Dog
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
7:30 – 11:30 p.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.
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‘Blood Brother’ Albert Castiglia brings blues to Lizzie Rose Dec. 20
Tune In, Turn On
With Doug Deutsch
If acting legends John b elushi and Dan Akroyd were known as
“the b lues b rothers,” what might hard-working guitar slingers Albert castiglia and mike Zito be known as?
How about blood brothers?
“It (blood brothers) formed in late 2021, shortly after (Gulf coast records President) mike (Zito) and I did a series of nationwide gigs together,” said castiglia via email while on tour (he performs at Lizzie rose m usic room in Tuckerton Friday, Dec. 20).
“We have a great chemistry. People
wanted to see us play together to the point where we had to satisfy the demand. It’s been a wonderful run.
“I think individually we are great,” c astiglia continued. “When you put us together it’s a whole different show, sound and energy. It’s been amazing sharing this adventure with my best friend.”
NewYear
Small Plates
Entrees
Pomeg ranate-Glazed Pork Chop
shaved Br ussels sprouts.
Pan Seared Salmon
ser ved over bacon and sweet pea risotto with car rot ginger sauce.
Cajun Shrimp
ser ved in a creamy tomato Cajun sauce over fresh fettucine
Prime Rib
topped with au jus and ser ved with mashed potato and g rilled asparagus
b lood b rothers won the b lues rock Album award at the 45th Annual b lues m usic Awards last year – no small feat.
Success in the music world these days can often be linked to how frequently an artist tours. castiglia rarely rests, and is in demand.
“We were just in europe and it was fantastic! We did a festival in The czech republic, a sold-out club in Schopfheim, Germany, and a weeklong engagement at m arian’s Jazz club in bern Switzerland. Those folks know the blues!,” Albert says, clearly enjoying life on the road.
Originally from New York city, c astiglia was taken a liking to by blues harp great, Junior Wells. Albert went on to play lead guitar in Wells’ band until the latter’s 1998 passing.
As most know, both blues brothers were members of famed latenight comedy show, “Saturday Night Live.” The blood brothers, too, have a former SNL cast member with a flair for performing blues music: bill m urray.
“ mike and I are close friends with b ill’s brother, John. We met John through (blues musician/satirist) chris “ bad News” barnes,” said castiglia, whose wife, michelle castiglia, operates a blues radio promotion company.
“John told b ill about the b lood brothers. That prompted an invitation to play a show at the murray bros.’ annual caddyshack Golf Tournament in St. Augustine, Fla. bill sang five songs with the band that night. It was surreal to share the stage with such an icon. He carried himself onstage like he was just one of the guys. So much fun. bill had such a good time that he reached out to m ike (Zito) and told him he wanted to do shows with us. The rest is history!”
The Albert castiglia band is at Liz-
zie rose music room, Friday, Dec. 20. Visit lizzierosemusicroom.com. It was close to sold out as we went to press.
John Eddie Rocks Resorts: One of New Jersey’s favorite musical rock guitarist/ singer-songwriters whose songs have been recorded by Sammy Hagar, Kid rock and Keith Urban, among others, brings his “Holiday Ho Ho Hoedown” to resorts c asino’s Superstar Theater Friday, Dec. 13. “ everyone’s been asking if we are going to do the acoustic after-party like we did last time at resorts. The answer is yes,” said eddie. “Immediately after our show in resorts we’ll head across to Dougherty’s for a Holiday Hootenanny After-Party! Free admission. It’ll be a blast with lots of surprises and songs we didn’t play during the big show. We’re also doing an early New Year’s eve countdown at midnight just for fun (and to freak out the drunks who will think it's actually New Year’s eve and they can’t believe they missed half of December).” Funny guy. (resortscasino.com).
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@ gmail.com and www.facebook. com/dougdeutschpublicity.
Albert Castiglia will perform at the Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton Friday, Dec. 20. Photo by Savas Mallotides
Atlantic City’s Winter Wonderland Parade larger than ever
The c ity of Atlantic c ity hosted its largest Winter Wonderland Parade to date, drawing a crowd to the iconic Atlantic city b oardwalk for a day of festive cheer and holiday spirit. The annual event featured a vibrant procession of elaborately decorated floats, vehicles, and groups of performers spreading seasonal joy along the world-famous Atlantic city boardwalk.
Spectators lining the boardwalk enjoyed appearances by beloved holiday figures, including Santa claus, m rs. claus, the Grinch, and more. Performers and participants delighted audiences with music, dance, and dazzling costumes, creating a magical atmosphere for attendees of all ages.
mayor marty Small, Sr. joined the parade alongside local organizations, community groups, and businesses that helped make the event a success. The parade was part of the city’s efforts to celebrate the holiday season and highlight Atlantic city as a destination for family-friendly festivities.
Photos of the event, captured by Kristian Gonyea
Is it a good idea to give someone a dog as a holiday gift?
By Heidi Clayton
Every year at about this time, social media gets flooded with the warning: “A dog isn’t a christmas gift…IT’S A LIFeLONG cO mm ITmeNT!”
I believe they can be both a gift and, of course, a lifelong commitment. It is perfectly acceptable to get that puppy your kids have been asking for or adopt a dog at christmastime if you follow a few rules.
First of all, if you are getting a puppy, I always recommend that you do so from a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding stock. These health tests include getting color echocardiograms on hearts and ensuring that parents are free from genetic hip, elbow, or knee dysplasia issues. This is particularly true for
anyone considering getting a “doodle” or “poo” mixed breed dog. The amount of bad hips and knees I see in these mixes is scary. So if you are looking to purchase a puppy, I absolve you of any guilt. Just do it the right way, and make sure you are getting a healthy and happy puppy. remember that the lifelong commitment starts the minute you bring a dog or puppy home, not after New Year’s Day. So before you commit, think about how hectic your holiday season is. consider if you can reasonably manage holiday activities and the neediness of a puppy. If rescuing a dog, remember that they need quiet decompression time post-adoption. If you have a houseful, it might not be the best time to bring a dog home. A good breeder will hold onto a baby puppy for you so that the transition goes smoothly. If someone is saying you must come get the puppy or else, they are probably not worth dealing with.
I currently have an 8-month-old terrorist living in my home. She is watched like a hawk. She has plenty of mental and physical exercise, yet
she never slows down. Quite frankly, she’s rather demanding of my time and energy. So again, consider what you and your family have going on around the holidays and whether you can manage a puppy on top of all of your social obligations.
Speaking of my 8-month-old puppy, I have decided that this year there will be no christmas tree or decorations inside the yard or house. She is a wrecking ball, and I am making my life easy by limiting christmas decorations to the areas that she absolutely does not have access to. So, when bringing a puppy home around christmas, remember that, as far as a puppy is concerned, decorations are fair game. You will need to save these dogs from themselves and maybe from tearing up all of the gifts under the tree. I won’t call a client's dog out by name, but their older rescue decided to open everyone’s gifts a few days before christmas. He pooped ribbons and colorful paper out for days. I was heartbroken for the destroyed Ugg boots (more than one pair!) that he ate.
I don’t think that everyone who gets a puppy for christmas is a bad person, as long as you and your family are committed to getting to work right away. If you are truly committed to bringing a puppy or dog into your home, the time of year that happens should not be an issue. So, I am fine with a puppy or dog as a gift if you are ready to start the lifelong commitment to the dog from the very second they enter your life and remain committed beyond the excitement of christmas morning.
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
Stockton’s Anguelov enjoying a special season
By David Weinberg
There are times in sports when everything aligns.
It’s when the golfer knows the Titleist is splitting the fairway when it’s still on the tee, when the bowler knows the pins will topple when the ball is halfway down the lane, when the pitch looks like a beach ball as it approaches the plate, when the rim seems as wide as the Ocean city Ferris wheel.
Stockton University basketball player martin Anguelov was in that zone recently.
The senior guard scored 106 total points in a three-game stretch, including a school-record 45 in a 10599 victory over New Jersey Athletic conference rival The college of New Jersey on Dec. 4.
Anguelov, a Wildwood c atholic High School graduate, broke a record that had stood for 27 years, since Atlantic city High grad carl cochran scored 41 in 1997.
“I was definitely feeling confident,” Anguelov said. “ but I wasn’t thinking about records or anything. I was just
trying to do whatever it took to help our team win.”
That means contributing in other ways in those days when it seems like the basket has a manhole cover on top of it.
Anguelov scored only eight points in the Osprey’s next game, but grabbed seven rebounds and dished out four assists – both season-highs – in an 81-55 win over William Paterson last Saturday.
“Shooting doesn’t determine whether you play well or not,” Stockton coach Scott bittner said. “It’s about being an allaround player and martin has developed that part of his game. I thought the last game was one of the best he’s ever played.”
With the departure of several standouts from last year’s team, including Stockton’s career scoring leader D.J. campbell, bittner was also looking for Anguelov to step up as a leader.
Although quiet and humble by nature, he’s filling that role. He mostly leads by example, but can also get vocal when necessary.
In that game against TcNJ, for example, the Ospreys trailed the
Anguelov drained back-to-back three-points to tie the game at 9797 with 1:05 left, then put Stockton ahead for good with a pair of free throws.
After making those foul shots, Anguelov turned to his teammates and said, “We’re not losing. … We’re not losing.”
“ m artin’s quiet, but the players
really respect him and look at him as a leader,” bittner said. “After each practice, the other coaches and I establish a pecking order and we’ve also had the players doing it. m ore times than not, martin is at the top of the list.” His emergence has been part of a serpentine journey that’s taken him from bulgaria, to New Jersey, to Texas and now to Stockton.
Parents Valentin and b oyana moved with martin and his younger sister, Simona, from Vidin, bulgaria to cape may in 2015. They had worked in cape may as J1 students years earlier and decided to move back.
Valentin, a former basketball standout in b ulgaria, now works at The Washington Inn in c ape m ay. boyana is a part-time private chef. Simona, 19, graduated from Wildwood catholic High School last spring and is now a freshman finance major at rutgers University.
“We lived a comfortable life in b ulgaria, but my parents wanted to give us more opportunities,” martin said. “I can’t thank them enough for the sacrifices they’ve made and everything they’ve done for us.”
martin attended Lower cape may regional High School for two years before transferring to Wildwood c atholic for his junior and senior years.
His hopes of landing a college basketball scholarship, however, disappeared when the covid-19 pandemic struck, limiting most high school teams to just five games in the 2020-21 season.
↘Continued on 70
Lions 97-91 with two minutes left in regulation.
Martin Anguelov
A TOUR OF ITALY
• Novelty Gifts
• Pasta, Specialty Foods
• Leather Handbags
• Jewelry
• Religious Items
• Signs
• Funny T-Shirts
• Ceramics
• Clothing & Hats
• Aprons
• Tree Ornaments Visit us in Historic Smithville
↘Continued from 68
“I had some offers earlier, but once covid hit, most of the college players stayed an extra year and that took away a lot of spots,” he said.
m artin wound up accepting a scholarship to r anger college, a community college in ranger, Texas, which is about 85 miles east of Fort Worth.
Its list of alumni include former major League pitcher Jim m orris of “The rookie” fame and former running back boobie miles from “Friday Night Lights.”
“It’s in the middle of nowhere,” m artin said with a smile. “There’s a basketball gym, a weight room, a Dollar General and a lot of fields.
“It was a great experience, though. I was there for eight months and got a chance to play against top-tier competition and made a lot of friends. my roommate was from Serbia and there was another kid from Italy. We hung out a lot together.”
martin had intended to play a second year for the rangers, but a new coaching staff came in and essentially turned over the entire roster.
Once again searching for a team, he reached out to coach bittner, who viewed him as the type of player, and person, who could fit in well with his team.
“As well as he’s played, I’m proba -
bly most proud of the way he’s developed off the court,” bittner said. “He’s an A-plus, -plus player and person.”
Anguelov had to endure more hardship last season, suffering a fractured wrist that forced him to miss Stockton’s exciting playoff run.
This year, plenty more accomplishments await. Stockton is viewed as one of the top N cAA Division III teams in the country and could be a national contender.
Anguelov, who lives with relatives in egg Harbor Township during the school year, is due to graduate in may with a degree in exercise science.
The possibility of playing professionally, maybe in bulgaria, looms, as well as some coaching and teaching opportunities.
but for now, he’s focused on staying in the zone, both on the basketball court and in life.
David is a nationally recognized sports columnist who has covered Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his own Facebook page, Dave Weinberg Extra Points. Send comments to weinbergd419@comcast.net.
Enjoy Smithville this holiday season
December in Smithville is a winter wonderland!
When you get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, plan a day at Smithville to slow it down, enjoy your family and be reminded of the simpler pleasures of the holidays.
Light Show on the Lake come see over 100 christmas trees dance to the sweetest holiday tunes during our daily Light Show on Lake m eone! Located in the heart of the Village, this enchanting tradition lights up every night at 5:30 p.m., spreading holiday magic to all who visit.
The Magic Talking Christmas Tree
Next to the Smithville Train Station an oversized christmas tree is brought in from Santa’s private forest. This beautifully decorated christmas tree awakens to talk with you and your children about the upcoming holidays and, well, anything you might want.
Train Ride and Carousel
The Smithville Train has decorated its tracks for the holidays. For $3.00
per person, take a 6 1/2 minute ride on the outskirts of Smithville on this fun, whimsical train. b oth the train and carousel are open, village hours weather permitting throughout the month of December (below 40 degrees, rain or snow). To call in advance and check, please call 609748-8999.
S’mores on the Greene each Friday, Saturday and Sunday you can find us making s’mores around the fire pits on the Greene. For a small fee, you can purchase your own s’mores packet and stick. make delicious yummy treats or just gather with us and enjoy, weather permitting.
Retirement journey part 3: Mid-stage retirement
By Eric Reich
In the last few articles, we have covered what to do in the years leading up to retirement and what to expect in the early years of retirement. Now we are moving on to the mid-years of retirement.
This may be characterized by feeling like the novelty of retirement has worn off, and you are settling into your “golden years”. retirees often laugh and tell me that this is the boring part. What I believe they are referring to is that they are starting to slow down in terms of activity. This might be characterized by less travel and less dining out. This is what I refer to as a normalization of retirement. This can be a great time for many retirees. The reduced feeling of constantly being on the go may be replaced with a contentment of simply enjoying retirement and the time spent with family and friends. Sometimes this stage doesn’t happen by choice, but rather because of health reasons. Again, this is why working diligently to maintain your health is so important.
characteristics of mid-stage retirement include:
1. Reduced expenses
Now that the newness of retirement may be wearing off, traveling, dining out, and completing bucket list
items may not be the same priority that they were at the beginning of retirement. e xpenses may start to reduce. This is where I often see families with multiple cars start to consolidate. This saves in multiple ways, including reduced insurance costs and maintenance and repairs. This is a good time to reassess expenses in general. Are you really watching 1200 TV channels, including all the premium subscriptions?
2.Downsizing
It is not uncommon for retirees at this stage to begin to think about downsizing. This certainly goes along with reducing expenses. Downsizing can save money on virtually everything in your home: insurance costs, taxes, utility bills, repairs, maintenance, and the list goes on. I prefer to consider downsizing at this stage instead of waiting until the final stage, which is often at an age when you may be physically less able or inclined to want to make a big move.
3. Less stuff
Like downsizing your home, midstage retirement is a great time to consider downsizing your life. Having less stuff makes life less complicated. Start thinking about what you should part with and how. This is when I suggest thinking about who gets what when it comes to your stuff. I feel like many retirees wait until the late stages of life to begin this process, and many of them say they wish they started the process earlier.
m id-stage retirement, while perhaps not as exciting as the early stage, can be a great time to just enjoy life. Getting prepared for the final stage of retirement now can make life a lot easier when you have prepared as many things as possible in advance. After all, the point of retirement is to enjoy yourself, and waiting until the last minute with anything in life rarely makes it more enjoyable.
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 m anagement, 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.
Postcards From The Past
The Ocean One Mall on the boardwalk in Atlantic City was built in 1983. Resembling a cruise ship, the mall was home to over one hundred stores and a massive food court. Teens flocked to the TILT arcade and Sam Goody Records. The mall featured life-sized cardboard cutouts of celebrities. It closed in 2003 and was transformed to The Pier Shops, a high-end shopping mall and entertainment complex. It later became The Playground and now ACXi Studios.
Make lasting family memories with your own holiday-themed home
Real Estate Matters
By Elisa Jo Eagan
Bright lights, candles in windows, wreaths, and lawn ornaments are the typical components of an exterior holiday décor formula. While the traditionally decorated home is warm and welcoming, you can achieve the same effect while putting a unique spin on your décor. The list below offers a few creative theme ideas for you to consider.
Ready, Set, Action!
If your household has a favorite holiday film, you can take inspiration from elements of the movie and bring them right to your front yard and home. People driving by will delight in the nostalgia and humor of your home’s décor. The films below
are full of simple elements you can replicate.
‘A Christmas Story’
The real “A c hristmas Story” house – a 19th-century Victorian – is located in cleveland, Ohio. It has been restored to its movie splendor and is open year-round to the public for tours and overnight stays. Take your home through a time machine with these whimsical touches:
- Purchase a replica of the leg lamp to place in your front window.
- Place a large box with the word “Fragile” on your front porch.
- m ake your own 1940s-inspired wreath with vintage ornaments and bows.
replicating Flick with his tongue stuck to the pole, r alphie’s pink bunny pajamas, and other humorous depictions from this classic movie will create fun memories and make it a family favorite.
‘Home Alone’
The iconic red-brick Georgian-style “Home Alone” house, featured in the 1990s movie, is a real home located in the affluent, treelined chicago suburb of Winnetka, Ill. It attracts dozens of visitors daily.
To recreate it at your own version you can:
- copy Kevin's genius contraptions to deter any holiday mischief.
- create a mock “Little Nero's Pizza” box, set it on your porch with the label facing out.
- Fashion your home’s décor to mimic the movie for a beautiful and fun family experience.
‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’
While there is no actual Whoville home for the Grinch, this year you can visit Universal Studios Orlando to celebrate “Grinchmas,” a holiday-themed extravaganza based
on the original 1957 Dr. Seuss book, “How the Grinch Stole christmas.”
At your home, take a clue from the Grinch and steal the show with a Whoville-inspired scene:
- make a sign that says, “Welcome to Whoville” to hang on your front door.
- buy a Grinch cutout and connect it to a string of lights so it looks like he is pulling them down.
- Hang oversized striped stockings from your porch railing or below your windows.
- Play themed songs and even invite cindy Lou Who and the children to sing along for added fun.
The holiday theme you pick will surely create lasting memories to share with family, friends and neighbors for years to come!
Remember Those in Need This Holiday Season Homelessness can happen to anyone, and it happens here, too.
Please join us as b alsley Losco realty partners and the Atlantic city rescue m ission support 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, this Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To donate or for more information, please contact me at 609-7030432. Thank you for your kindness and generosity in making 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!"
Consider these kosher wines for Hanukkah
Drink Up!
By David Setley
This year’s holiday calendar is rather unique. Not only is Dec. 25 christmas Day on the christian calendar, but that evening is also the first night of the 8-day Hanukkah celebration on the Jewish calendar. This is only the fifth time in the past 125 years that these days have aligned!
Hanukkah is the wintertime festival of lights, marked by the nightly lighting of the menorah, special prayers, and fried foods. Hanukkah comes from the word “dedication” in Hebrew and celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple after a small band of Jews, under the leadership of Judah the maccabee, beat overwhelming odds and defeated what was then considered the most powerful army in the world. When the victorious Jews attempted to light the Temple’s menorah, they
had enough olive oil to light it for one night. but, a miracle occurred. The menorah stayed lit for eight nights! Hanukkah celebrates that victory and the miracle of the oil. eating foods fried in oil, including latkes and sufganiyot, also celebrates the oil.
What makes a wine kosher? In Yiddish, kosher means “fit” or “proper.” According to Nick Fauchald, kosher wine is wine produced to conform with Jewish dietary requirements under the supervision of a rabbi (Wine Spectator magazine). All ingredients, including the yeast and fining agents, must be kosher and all equipment utilized must be rabbinically certified. No corn syrup can be used as a sweetening agent unless additional certification is obtained and it is appropriately labeled on the bottle. manischewitz is one of the most recognized kosher wines. The manischewitz winery is located in canandaigua in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. This wine is made
from New York concord grapes and is known to be rather sweet and fruity with a flavor that is frequently related to Welch’s grape juice. It is very affordable and is a traditional celebration wine in many Jewish households. There are many other kosher wines to choose from, including three options from Italy. bartenura has a m oscato D’Asti and a brachetto. m oscato D’Asti is a slightly sweet, effervescent wine with notes of pear, nectarines, melons, and apricot and a touch of honey. This is a wonderful welcome wine to greet guests with and goes well with salad or charcuterie. bartenura brachetto is produced with grapes grown in the Piedmont region in north-west Italy. Again, this is slightly sweet and effervescent with rich flavors of strawberry, raspberry, and hints of ripe cherry. brachetto is wonderful as an aperitif, with cheeses, or with light entrees. For a drier, more traditional Italian red, try the cantina Gabriele Sangiovese from Tuscany. This is a classic Italian Sangiovese with the deep ruby red color you are likely familiar with in chianti wines and other Sangiovese-based Tuscano wines. It is full-bodied with fine, silky tannins and the flavors and aroma of dark cherries, leather, and earth. This is a perfect wine for all Italian fare and pairs well with your holiday brisket.
South Africa has become wellknown for its fine wines, including three excellent kosher wines under the clever brand name Unorthodox. The Unorthodox m erlot & cabernet Sauvignon blend is a great kosher red wine. The wine is aged seven months in oak barrels. The result is a full-bodied, rich, dark red wine with flavors of dark fruit and berries with a touch of vanilla and baking spices. This blend would go very well with brisket or any red meat.
Unorthodox also has a Sauvignon b lanc and, my favorite, the
Unorthodox c henin b lanc. The Sauvignon blanc is light-bodied and aged in stainless steel to retain the wonderfully refreshing crispness and minerality of this varietal. chenin blanc is a varietal that South Africa has become known for. This artfully made dry white wine is well-balanced with the beautiful aroma of honeysuckle and chamomile and the fruit flavors of yellow apple, pear, white peach, and a touch of honey. This wine is aged in oak to impart light wood notes and a darker color. either of these would be great with latkes or fish dishes.
Over the past year, several customers have asked me to investigate kosher wines from Israel. I’m happy to report that we have brought in a very good set from the Golan Heights of Galilee. Gilgal wines are premium quality and available in chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and cabernet Sauvignon. Gilgal chardonnay is produced with 100% chardonnay grapes grown in the Golan Heights. Aging in French oak barrels for 4 months adds a pleasing toastiness to the lemony character typical of chardonnay. This is an excellent wine with latkes, fish, or chicken dishes. Gilgal Pinot Noir is grown in the volcanic soil and high altitude of Israel's Golan Heights, offering a pleasurable and uniquely savoring experience. This is a light-bodied red wine aged in French oak. It is a well-balanced Pinot Noir with an attractive layer of cherries and blueberries and a subtle earthiness. The cabernet Sauvignon is aged for one year in French oak barrels and has the rich fruit flavors of raspberry, blackberry and cherry with notes of black pepper, herb and chocolate and a lingering finish. This one is perfect with a steak, a hamburger or a brisket.
I hope this article gives you a better understanding of kosher wines and some recommendations to complement your holiday celebrations. As always, if you have questions, feel free to contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com or stop by the store. Until next time, Happy Hanukkah and happy wining!
David Setley is enjoying his retirement from higher education as a wine educator and certified sommelier at Passion Vines in Somers Point, New Jersey.
Test your knowledge of popular Christmas movies
Watching christmas movies is a holiday tradition for many families. So much so that lines from popular movies are easily remembered and recognized. Those who can recite movies verbatim might enjoy testing their mettle with the following christmas quiz loaded with memorable quotes from some holiday classics.
Match to these movies:
__ A Santa clause
__ Home Alone
__ A christmas Story
__ The Polar e xpress
__ White christmas
__ The Simpsons christmas miracle on 34th Street
__ The Grinch Who Stole christmas
elf bad Santa
__ Gremlins muppets christmas carol
__ The Holiday babes in Toyland
Shopping the Stores of Yesteryear
R
7. “Who gave you permission to tell charlie there was no Santa claus? I think if we’re going to destroy our son’s delusions, I should be a part of it.”
8. “I want to wash my hands, my face, my hair with snow.”
J
C
T
W
P
L
Y
S U J L T J A H
BRADLEES
JAMESWAY
HOUSEANDGARDEN
VALUECITY
TOMS
SHOREMALL
PEEBLES
TOYSRUS
STEINBACH
ACMOORE
KMART
SEARS
JCPENNY
CLOVER
CIRCUITCITY
__ Nightmare before christmas
__ A chistmas carol
__ Jingle All The Way
__ A charlie brown christmas
Movie Quotes Quiz
1. “It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags.”
2. “Uh, since the United States Government declares this man to be Santa claus, this court will not dispute it. case dismissed.”
3. “If TV has taught me anything, it’s that miracles always happen to poor kids at christmas. It happened to Tiny Tim, it happened to charlie brown, it happened to The Smurfs, and it’s gonna happen to us!”
4. “I want an official red ryder, carbine action, 200 shot range model air rifle.”
5. “ b less this highly nutritious microwavable macaroni and cheese dinner and the people who sold it on sale. Amen.”
6. “Iris, in the movies, we have leading ladies and we have the best friend. You, I can tell, are a leading lady, but for some reason, you’re behaving like the best friend.”
9. “We’re not just doing this for us. We’re doing it for the kids. For every kid who ever sat on Santa’s lap. For every little girl who left cookies and milk for Santa on christmas night. For every little boy who opens a package christmas morning and finds clothes instead of toys. It breaks my heart.”
10. “We all know that christmas is a big commercial racket. It’s run by a big eastern syndicate you know.”
11. “I fear you more than any spectre I have seen. b ut as I know your purpose is to do me good, and as I hope to live to be another man from what I was, I am prepared to bear your company, and do it with a thankful heart. Will you not speak to me?”
12. “Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.”
13. “Light the lamp, not the rat, light the lamp, not the rat! Put me out, put me out, put me out!”
14. “Tell me something, billy. How come a cute little guy like this can turn into a thousand ugly monsters?”
15. “Wanna see some magic? OK, let’s watch you disappear!”
16. “That’s not ‘my’ christmas! ‘ my’ christmas is filled with laughter, and joy... and this: my Sandy claws outfit. I want you to make it.”
17. “That’s neither pig nor pork, it’s beef.”
18. “I passed through the seven levels of the c andy c ane forest, through the sea of swirly twirly gum drops, and then I walked through the Lincoln Tunnel.”
Answers on page 82
SUDOKU
ACROSS
1. big ____ at 7- eleven
5. Plays for pay
8. Not counterfeit
12. Largest continent
13. Field worker
14. eagle's nest
15. Shade-loving plant
16. river in bohemia
17. choice or delicious dish
18. *Vince Vaughn's title role, 2007
20. research facil.
21. "colorful" announcement
22. Humor magazine
23. Sherlock Holmes' esteemed friend
26. Wedge-shaped
30. "Fat chance!"
31. Ancient liturgical hymn
34. Jet black
35. Like bushmills' whiskey
37. *"Jingle ____ the Way," 1996
38. Speak like Pericles
39. cleopatra's necklace
40. They're often bolt action
42. Tucker of " m odern Family"
43. Football play, pl
45. *Nicholas cage's "The ____ man," 2000
47. egg cells
48. "The m etamorphosis" author
50. Nursery rhyme old woman's home
52. *Kevin m ccallister's story, 1990
56. Opposite end of alpha
57. "It's beginning to look ____ ____ like christmas..."
58. Like desert climate
59. Apple leftovers
60. container weight
61. *"Trappd in Paradise" with Jon Lovitz and ____ carvey
62. matured
63. "c'____ la vie!"
64. big bang's original matter
DOWN
1. Fishing pole
2. Olympic castaway?
3. Pre-euro money
4. bamboo forest dwellers
5. *Like e xpress to the North Pole
6. Overthrow by argument
7. miners' bounty, pl.
8. *clarice, e.g.
9. Spans of time
10. Not a word?
11. Type of christmas lights
13. Helen in France
14. Type of deadly flu
19. Lame or serge
22. "____'s the word"
23. *Like bing crosby's christmas
24. Packers' quarterback
25. Like Hitler's reich
26. reject
27. Olden day calculators
28. The whole amount
29. *Henry F. Potter in "It's a Wonderful Life," e.g.
32. Oration station
33. *Will Ferrell's 2003 role
36. * based on "A christmas c arol," 1988
38. Port city in Japan
40. ribonucleic acid
41. Affected or pretentious
44. Part of eye containing iris, pl.
46. Unwellness
48. Trees producing caffeine-containing nuts
49. Like a duel in France, usually
50. Smoke plus fog
51. At this point
52. Antonym of love
53. Unwritten exam
54. Number of baseball fielders
55. Dutch cheese
56. edible tuber
See Solution on page 82
THEME: HOLIDAY MOVIES
Atlantic City’s amusement piers that aren’t there anymore
By Bruce Klauber
The history of Atlantic city’s iconic amusement piers has been detailed in these pages several times before. but after the stories of Steeplechase Pier, million Dollar Pier, central Pier, Garden Pier and Steel Pier had been written and published, it became evident that there were several omissions. The reason for the omissions is that these iconic structures, one incredibly popular, have not been a part of the Atlantic city landscape for about 80 years.
Little is known about Atlantic city’s West Jersey Pier, which opened in 1880 and was destroyed the same year. There is no record of any major fire or hurricane in the Atlantic city area in 1880, so the reason for West Jersey Pier’s destruction remains unknown.
Howard’s Pier, on Kentucky Avenue and the boardwalk, opened in 1882 and is said to be the first amusement pier to be built over the ocean. For an admission price of 10 cents, visitors could enjoy vaudeville acts
such as Lillie Langtry and Harry Houdini. There was other high-class entertainment as well. An ad in the 1885 “Atlantic city Guide” read, “In the beautiful pavilion on Howard’s Pier, at the end of Kentucky Avenue, a first-class opera company has been engaged who will devote their talent to light opera performances under the management of colonel Howard.” Howard, we must assume, was the pier’s owner. A few months after its opening, a storm caused the pier’s collapse, but it was rebuilt immediately. The result was a 750-foot-long structure that was in operation until 1890, when it was demolished for an expansion of the boardwalk.
In 1884, Howard’s was joined along the boardwalk by the 625-footlong Applegate’s Pier. Applegate’s became one of the leading amusement destinations in the city when captain John Young and his partner, banker Stewart m cShea, took it over
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in 1891. That year, they expanded the pier’s length to 2,000 feet, renamed it Young’s Ocean Pier, and installed rides, midway games, and even an electric trolley. At its height, Young’s also had an aquarium, ballrooms and booked regular band concerts and vaudeville shows.
In 1902, Young installed what is said to be Atlantic city’s first amusement ride. It was an early version of a roller coaster called “The Flip-Flap railroad.” In 1912 a fire destroyed the pier. but it was never-say-die for captain John Young. In 1907, Young built the famed million Dollar Pier.
The H.J. Heinz company was founded in 1869 by Henry J. Heinz.
After several false starts as purveyors of foods like horseradish, pickles and ketchup, the operation finally began to take off around 1888. Heinz bought out his partners after surviving a bankruptcy and in 1896, came up with the phrase “57 Varieties,” which is still used today.
The company was innovative in several ways, including promotion. In 1888, commercial radio as we know it would not happen for another 30 years and television was just a dream. Though magazines and newspapers flourished and were heavily used to promote various Heinz products, the company was looking for something more; a way to take the Heinz 57 Varieties message directly to the people.
On a visit to Atlantic city, Heinz took a close look at the amusement piers that were in operation and came up with the idea of leasing one of them for the sole purpose of promoting the Heinz brand. Heinz worked quickly and in 1888, leased the Iron Pier, which actually opened for the first time two years prior.
The 900-foot pier, located at massachusetts Avenue and the board -
walk, was renamed Heinz Ocean Pier, sometimes called “The crystal Palace by the Sea.” What made the Heinz pier unique for the time was the lack of amusement rides. Instead, for no admission charge, visitors could view exhibits of Victorian-era paintings, bronzes, tapestries, mirrors, vases and curiosity pieces that had been originally on view at the World’s c olumbian e xposition (c hicago World's Fair) in 1893. It also featured a large painting of the Heinz factory, portraits of the salesmen and fancy product displays. Open year round, the pier had a sun parlor to keep visitors warm during the winter.
Guests could also write to their friends on free souvenir postcards, sample Heinz products, hear presentations on the Heinz business, and in its later years, watch cooking demonstrations in the Heinz kitchen. Given
that this was Heinz Pier, the company’s food products were also displayed. This might sound less than exciting today, but in its 46 years of existence, it’s been said that more than 50 million people visited the pier, and all walked away with a Heinz pickle pin as a souvenir.
In September of 1944, Atlantic city, Ocean city, c ape m ay, Long b each Island and other shore points were hit hard by one of the most powerful hurricanes of the century. The Great Atlantic Hurricane took out large sections of the boardwalk, part of the Steel Pier was destroyed, hotel lobbies were flooded, apartments at the Inlet were leveled and there was no power for days. The m argate b oardwalk was destroyed and was never rebuilt.
Like the Steel Pier, Heinz Pier sustained major damage. The Steel Pier was rebuilt, but the Heinz Pier, said to be one of the company’s most expensive and ambitious projects, never was. by 1944, commercial radio was thriving and television would be coming soon. The Heinz operation must have realized that advertising was an easier and more efficient way to promote their products than operating a pier in Atlantic city.
By Ursula Duffy
Horoscopes for Dec. 12-18
♈ Aries: The light is shining on how you receive and communicate information. Although how to do so may feel confusing, the mission is to deliver the message, whether simply to yourself or imparting wisdom to someone else.
Answers:
1. “The Grinch Who Stole christmas”
2. “ miracle on 34th Street”
3. “The Simpson’s christmas”
4. “A christmas Story”
5. “Home Alone”
6. “The Holiday”
7. “The Santa clause”
8. “White christmas”
9. “Jingle All the Way”
10. “A charlie brown christmas”
11. “A christmas carol”
12. “The Polar e xpress”
13. “The m uppets christmas carol”
14. “Gremlins”
15. “ bad Santa”
16. “The Nightmare before christmas”
17. “ babes in Toyland” 18. “ elf”
♉ Taurus: The growth of your personal resources has been in a state of expansion and contraction for many months. Whatever comes to fruition this week should reveal the path forward in your efforts, as well as that which is of decreasing value.
♊ Gemini: The path to wholeness is not only an independent journey. Pause and reflect on the relationships, partnerships and friendships that have contributed to who you are. Send gratitude to yourself and others.
♋ Cancer: Unconscious patterns and unseen forces impacting your well-being may be rising to the surface. Intentional time in solitude will allow grace and space for illumination of the unseen, to receive and to re-prioritize your overall vitality.
♌ Leo: Seeds planted, encoded with the vision of your hopes and dreams, are taking form. The current slower pace gifts you time to marvel at what you’ve created and how much you’ve grown through the process. b eaming pride is your essence this week, Leo!
♍ Virgo: Fulfillment of a career goal,
or a revelation of how others see you in your public roles, is incoming. Feelings of pressure or overwhelm would be best handled by remaining steadfast in devotion to yourself and your authenticity.
♎ Libra: Learning and adventure are reaching new heights. Always retain a sense of wonder and curiosity in the pursuit of your own expansion. Take note of all you’ve done to co-create this result.
♏ Scorpio: reconnecting with some old friends, especially those that know and fully accept the true you, may be just what your spirit needs this week. Treat yourself to a healthy meal, an evening out enjoying simple pleasures or doing something together that makes you feel vibrant.
♐ Sagittarius: It’s a week to celebrate milestones in your closest relationships. Surround yourself with your inner, supportive circle. enjoy lively conversation and each other’s company.
♑ Capricorn: Daily practices and habits that you’ve intentionally changed are paying off. Positive news that can become practical wisdom applied to your overall wellness is important. continue what has enhanced you, and release what hasn’t.
♒ Aquarius: Ideas are creations. It’s important to continue the flow, regardless of whether or not they’ve taken form. Keep creating, ensuring that the depths of yourself are honored and represented.
♓ Pisces: Your new digs may finally be starting to feel like home. The digs can be a physical space or the temple of your vessel. enjoy how the new “space” has perfected your relationship with yourself and those closest to you.
Weekly astrology summary:
The final full moon of 2024 graces us
this week at 4:01 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15. In the zodiac sign Gemini, this full moon is all about information. There are layers of complexity infused into the energies that may result in a delay of information, or revelation of information that may have previously been hidden. confusion about what rises to the surface may also accompany the overall feeling. The truth will set you free is a good tagline and phrase to describe it. However, sifting through details may be required as well as a way to release or process any tension related to the experience. m ethods of deception may also come to light. Visually, this full moon will be close to Jupiter and will be a beautiful sight. Jupiter will be located above or to the right of the moon when it rises almost full on Saturday night, and then eventually below or to the left as it reaches fullness overnight. Look up and enjoy! We don’t always get to see the full moon so close to Jupiter when Jupiter is also so bright. b ig, red mars will be close to the full moon as well. 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
“HOME” is more than just a word - it’s where life happens, and memories are made... make this season the one that you find YOUR forever home!
