SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | February 9, 2021

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Valentines & Winter Events Dan Skeldon's Snow Report- More To Come? Walking Through Linwood's Arboretum Discovering Black History in Mays Landing


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Surf Icon, Rob Kelly on his career, family, and bone-chilling ocean plunges By Cindy Christy Fertsch

I

magine peeling off all your winter clothes until you are standing in your bathing suit on a frigid beach. Then imagine plunging into the 37° bone-chilling water. While inconceivable for most, that is what Pro Surfer, Rob Kelly, of Ocean City has done every day since the beginning of the new year. Kelly pledged to take a daily icy plunge and although this winter has been especially cold and snowy, it has not stopped him. "You have to watch out for what you wish for," laughs Kelly. "I wanted to challenge myself. This winter, so far, has served up record-setting low temperatures and plenty of snow, including a blizzard." Was the day of the blizzard, with 50 miles per hour wind gusts and 15 inches of snow the toughest day for Kelly? "No...surprisingly, the earlier days were the hardest, although it was warmer," said Kelly. By the time the blizzard occurred later in the month, my mind and body were used to plunging into freezing waters." Kelly immerses himself for 3-5 minutes each day, catching at least one wave. Each arctic plunge is recorded and documented on social media. Kelly has a huge following which

ranges from surfers that are stoked to watch him to concerned mothers fearing hypothermia. Aside from looking for a challenge, Kelly shared that cold immersion therapy is quite common for professional athletes. Taking a post-workout ice water bath, known as cold water immersion or cryotherapy, is used to help muscles recover faster and reduce muscle pain and soreness after intense training sessions or competitions. Kelly works out at least five times a week to stay at peak performance and has practiced this. "So why not do it in the ocean?" said Kelly. "There is also something about showcasing the home surf scene that I enjoy." Kelly began surfing as a child in Hawaii with his uncle, at the age of ten. Originally from Bucks County, Kelly spent his summers in Ocean City. He got his first surfboard at 10 or 11 years old and his first instructor was Matt Keenan, a rising pro surfer in his own right. At 14, Kelly's family moved to Ocean City as year-round residents. Kelly attended Ocean City High School, where he competed on the surf team, winning the State Title three times. At 16, he became sponsored by Seventh Street Surf Shop and Billabong. "I owe a lot to the Ocean City Surf community. They were good to me, especially coming in as an out-oftowner. I don't take it for granted," shared Kelly. During his years at OCHS, Kelly also met the love of his life; his wife, Shannon. Following high school, Shannon went to college in Utah while Kelly surfed all over the world. They have

Photo Credit: Craig Nordberg been married three years now and have a 7th-month-old baby named Kash. "I always loved kids, and looked forward to being a dad," said Kelly. "Everything they say is true and it is even better than I could have imagined." Kelly also has a YouTube channel, fittingly called NumbSkulls. His surf videos regularly attract 50 - 70 thousand viewers and are sponsored by Red Bull.

In Kelly's second grade journal, he wrote: "When I grow up I want to be a professional surfer " Dreams came true for Kelly who now resides in Ocean City, representing Billabong as a professional surfer and marketing specialist. Kelly shared that he is filled with love and appreciation for his life and especially for his wife, Shannon, and son, Kash. You can follow Rob Kelly on Instagram.com/RobKelly and YouTube. com/Numbskullsurf

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3


Our Great Love Story

lives together. Unconditional love is nearly palpable between a young mom and her newborn infant. Family bonds between brothers, sisters, family, and From the Editor friends that become family are one of the greatest loves of all. hat's love got Love gives us what we need to to do with it?" keep going. It provides us with the I can still hear energy, desire, and reason to carry on Tina Turner's through all the ebbs and flows of life. powerful pipes belting out those lyrics We all have our own unique love throughout the eighties. stories. Bob and I met on a blind date The answer is everything. Love is in 1989. We were set up by a mutual an invisible force that ties everything friend during a “mixer” that his fratogether and transcends generations, ternity was having with my sorority. cultures, and life experiences. We are I still remember the first time I saw all inextricably bound by the power him enter the room. He could tell you exactly what I was wearing and what of love. Through love, we find our passion, we talked about that night. Sparks our drive, our hope, and our purpose. flew, and a few years later, we were Without love, our lives lack depth and married. When the babies arrived, our meaning. hearts nearly exploded. They brought We often (especially this time of a type of love we hadn’t felt before year) romanticize love; the sparks of a and we got to see our parents in a new first kiss, the magnetism between two light, as grandparents. Over time, people when they feel an attraction, our love grew and morphed with the the excitement of a new relationship. changing tides in our lives. Love may begin with a spark, but it Love isn't always butterflies and is so much more than that. Love grows, valentines though. In college, Bob and spreads, and evolves in ways often I enjoyed a carefree kind of love. That beyond our comprehension. Love can changed quickly when the children came along and bills needed to be be seen in the older couple sitting in Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly. paid. Sometimes love hurts. It can the park who have spent their whole

"W

Issue 188

Established 2016

Celebrating Life at The Southern NJ Shore

wither away and leave us with goodbyes, then perhaps open our worlds to a new love. Lasting love is a deep connection that weathers storms. We learned that grief is the price we pay for love as we lost Bob's parents and then, tragically, our son. What's love got to do with it? When it comes to a fulfilling life, love is everything. I believe our purpose in life is to love one another. The LBGTQ+ community coined the phrase "Love always wins." I couldn't agree more. When we peel away the layers of conflict, anxiety, and differences, we find that at our core is love. Love is the most powerful and beautiful component of our being. Wherever you find yourself this Valentine's Day, I hope you feel and celebrate love, whether it be with your significant other, child, friend, family, or beloved pet. Love in all its forms should always be celebrated because it is the ultimate superpower. In this issue of Shore Local, read about surfing legend, Rob Kelly featured on the cover. His passion for surfing, family, and community are an inspiration. This winter, Kelly has challenged himself to take a polar plunge not only on New Year's Day but every

day, even in a blizzard! Take a look at Mays Landings' historical contributions of its first African American, John Wesley Underhill. As always this issue is jam-packed with features on the people, places, and events that make our community a great place to live and visit. Thank you for picking up this issue of Shore Local Newsmagazine. Wishing you and yours a month full of love and warmth. Happy Valentine's Day!

Peace & Love, Cindy

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February 9, 2022


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January Weather in a word: wow! Weather By Dan Skeldon

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hat's a wow if you're a South Jersey snow lover, likely smiling ear to ear after the month we had. And it's also a wow, but said with scorn and disdain, if you're not a fan of the flakes. The numbers are staggering. 33.2" of snow this January at the Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), where South Jersey weather records are kept. That's 8 more inches than we've seen in the last three winters combined! It's twice as much snow as we see in an average winter. And January 2022 will go down as the snowiest January on record, by more than afoot! So it's not even close. The snow came in three doses, with a pair of the foot or more snowfalls on the 3rd and 29th of the

deepening one that brought blizzard conditions to most of South Jersey. A blizzard is one of the more misunderstood and misused weather words, and has nothing to do with the amount of snow that falls. Yes, you can get two feet of snow, and not qualify as a blizzard. Rather, it's three or more consecutive hours of snow -or- blowing snow, 35mph wind gusts, and extremely low visibilities of 1/4 mile or less. If you were out in the storm even for a short period, you probably can verify that it qualified. Our blizzard had something in common with our South Jersey special, and that is that it left areas Ocean City beach in the Blizzard 2022. Photo by Cindy Grimm farther inland month sandwiched around a more reaches of the with only a little Garden State. modest 3-6" snowfall on the 7th. Add fringe fluff on To be precise, it all up, and the starved snow lover the outskirts of it wasn't just is quite full and satisfied for the first the storm. Sure, South Jersey time in years. it was a bigger The January 3rd storm was what I that was buried and far ther reaching storm, call a "South Jersey special," a term I in a foot of snow, and most of the coined back during my 13-year tenure but also Delaware at NBC40. It's a storm that makes as well as down state was significanttowards DC and Vira perfect "thread the needle" track ly impacted. But It was and leaves normally snowy inland ginia. But it was one again the coast that Fox spotted on a snowy beach at areas with bare ground and saves of those rare storms got the most, but this Corson's Inlet, Ocean City all the snow for the southernmost where the coast gets time the coast from Photo by Abby Longstreet the most, much to Cape May all the way the skiers' chagrin up north, while north to Ocean and Monmouth counNorth Jersey and Pennsylvania are ties too. And South Jersey wasn't left on the outside looking in. These quite the jackpot this time, as parts "special" storms require enough of Rhode Island and Massachusetts cold air for snow, and just the right saw 80-something-mile-per-hour track where a low pressure comes hurricane-force wind gusts and 25 to 30 inches of snow. So you might say just close enough to South Jersey to it could have been worse. give us the juiciest part of the storm, but not too close where it brings in I have spent my entire life chasthe warm ocean air and changes the ing snowflakes, hoping to be in the snow over to rain. bullseye of any winter storm within Almost four weeks later, the a 300-miles radius. I've even litermonth ended the same way as it ally chased lake effect snowstorms began. But this time with a different type of coastal storm, a rapidly ↘Continued on 8

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↘Continued from 6 throughout the Great Lakes in my youth. While most would love to have missed the blizzard altogether while vacationing in warm and sunny Florida and likely rubbed it into families back home, I honestly felt depressed when a rare winter trip to Florida coincided with a snowstorm back home.

snow-loving dogs, we spent some time sledding and curling up by a nice warm fire. I didn't have to spend 24 straight hours in the weather center, or be glued to social media. And while I feel guilty saying it, it was refreshing. And relaxing. Don't get me wrong. I still love snow. But maybe just during my nor-

Ocean City in the Blizzard of '22. Photos by OCNJ Drone But during the great blizzard of January 2022, my family spent it at our home on the edge of the Poconos, with just two inches of light fluffy snow to show for it. But the key was I spent it AT home. With two little girls, not to mention two

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Live & Local Music Calendar

February 10th

Steve Mullary 5:30-8:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point

February 11th

Jim Fisher 5:30-8:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point Cosmic Charlie 6-9pm. Water Dog at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Sons of Mystro 7:30pm Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway Al Olivero 8-11pm. Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall. 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City Big Foot 8pm-12am. Caroline’s by the Bay 450 Bay Ave. Somers Point Lounge Fly: A Tribute to Stone Temple Pilots 9pm-12am. Golden Nugget 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City DJ Camilo 10pm The Pool After Dark at Harrah’s 777 Harrah’s Blvd. Atlantic City Shortkutz 11pm. HQ2AC 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

February 12th

Don’t Call Me Francis 12-4pm Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Beth Tinnon 1-5pm. Balic Winery 6623 Harding Hwy. Mays Landing Dan Barry 5:30-8:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point 40 North 7-11pm. Pitney Pub 200 S. Pitney Rd. Galloway Zach Runfolo 7-11pm. McGettigan’s 500 S. New York Rd. Galloway The Brandon Ireland Band 8pm-12am Caroline’s by the Bay 450 Bay Ave. Somers Point MJ Live 8pm. Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City MONSTA X 8pm. Borgata Event Center 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City No Clue Trio 8-11pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate Sal Valentinetti & The Big Band 8pm Resorts Casino Hotel 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Starborn 8pm-12am. Josie Kelly’s Public House. 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Mike Gibbons Duo 9pm-12am. Water Dog at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Chachi 10pm. The Pool After Dark at Harrah’s. 777 Harrah’s Blvd. Atlantic City

February 13th

Jess Zimmerman Band 12-4pm. Renault Winery. 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Susan Salmon 1-5pm. Balic Winery 6623 Harding Hwy. Mays Landing Beth Tinnon Intriguing Trio 5-9pm Council Oak Lounge 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

February 14th

Cheers the Band 5-9pm. Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City

February 16th

Danny Eyer 5:30-8:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point

February 9, 2022

February 17th

Mel & Tony 7-11pm. McGettigan’s 500 S. New York Rd. Galloway Beth Tinnon 6-9:40pm. A Touch of Italy 6629 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township

February 18th

Ken Shiles & CiBon 6-9:40pm. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget. 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City Brooke DiCaro Duo 7-9pm. Water Dog at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Flamenco Vivo 7:30pm. Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway The Locals Band 8pm-12am. Caroline’s by the Bay. 450 Bay Ave. Somers Point Reba McEntire 8pm. Borgata Event Center 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City Klutch 11pm. HQ2AC 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

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February 19th

Space Camp 12-4pm. Deauville Inn 201 Willard Rd. Strathmere John Barillaro 1-5pm. Balic Winery 6623 Harding Hwy. Mays Landing Rob Lipkin 5:30-8:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point Indelible Groove 6-10pm. Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Beth and Dennis Party Duo 7-9:40pm Bar One Lounge at Resorts 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Dead Reckoning 7-11pm. Pitney Pub 200 S. Pitney Rd. Galloway The Company 8pm-12am. Caroline’s by the Bay. 450 Bay Ave. Somers Point Kool & The Gang 8pm. Ovation Hall at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Lisa OnTour and the Sweet Jersey Band 8-11pm. Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Matt Adams Duo 9pm-12am. Water Dog at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Michael Martocci: A Tribute to Frank Sinatra 9pm. Harrah’s Resort 777 Harrah’s Blvd. Atlantic City

February 20th

Shot of Southern 12-4pm. Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Erin McAndrew 1-5pm. Balic Winery 6623 Harding Hwy. Mays Landing Mott’s Creek 3-7pm. Caroline’s by the Bay 450 Bay Ave. Somers Point Ken Shiles, CiBon & Luke Carlos O’Reilly 5-9pm. Council Oak Lounge at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City 70’s Love Jam w/ Stephanie Mills, The Whispers, The Stylistics & Howard Hewett 7pm. Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Emo Night Brooklyn 9pm. Caesars Mountain Bar. 2100 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

February 21st

Cheezy and the Crackers 12-4pm. Renault Winery. 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City

February 22nd

The King’s Singers: Masterpiece 7:30pm Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway Times and dates are subject to change.

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South Jersey Local Offers a New Service Moving Big Items By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

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othing is more stressful than staring at a big, stuffy couch and being unsure how to move it. Imagine that your landlord ordered you to have all your belongings out of your old place by the end of the day. However, your couch will not fit in your Honda Accord. Worry no longer, friends. Truckster is here to help. Pat D’Ambrosio founded Truckster, understanding the need for people to move large pieces of furniture from place to place. “I have a pick-up truck, and friends and family would always ask me to help them bring home furniture purchased on Facebook Marketplace,” he said. “I saw the demand, so I decided to sell my services to people in the community.” Truckster primarily exists on Facebook and helps people move from Burlington County to Northern

Maryland. After four years in business, D’Ambrosio employs three other pick-up truck drivers and many “helpers.” D’Ambrosio connects with potential customers and does the marketing for his business. Truckster recently expanded to offer trailer transportation in addition to their pick-up trucks. “The craziest thing we ever moved was a chicken coop,” said D’Ambrosio. “We’ve moved pianos, gun safes and more, but this farm-sized coop was very odd. I loved thinking about how thankful all the chickens will be when they realize that their home has moved.”

D’Ambrosio prides himself in the philanthropic work done by his business. Truckster covers all expenses for families with low incomes or no ability to pay for services. In fact, D’Ambrosio voids the costs for one family every month, moving their stuff for free. “There was one lady we helped, whose mother died of cancer,” he said. “She had no money to clean out her mother’s home, so we helped her out.” The truck drivers and helpers

know South Jersey like the back of their hands. Once someone reaches out on Facebook, D’Ambrosio sends out his workers for the move. “We are the Uber for furniture,” he explains. “No matter who you are or what background you have, everyone needs something moved.” Truckster has served as a side hustle for D’Ambrosio and most of his fleet. If you need to furnish your beach house, Truckster specializes in bringing goods down the shore. The founder and owner is excited to see his business flourish and grow. “I want people to know that you can create something out of nothing,” D’Ambrosio said. “All you need is the internet and good people skills. Try the idea you want to try because you can do anything.” Sarah Fertsch is a writer and artist who has recently moved back to South Jersey. She loves satire, a good cup of coffee, and exploring new places.

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I Love Refe�als!

Events and Happenings

February 10th

Atlantic City Fashion Week

▶Thursday, February 10th – Saturday, February 12th

Showboat 801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Events include Student Fashion Show and Competition, Ready to Wear Fashion Showcase and Couture and Avant Garde Showcase. Tickets and information are available at atlanticcityfashionweek.com.

February 11th

I'd Love To Help Sell Your Home! I'd Love To Help �nd Your New Home!

Second Friday at Noyes Arts Garage

▶6-8pm

2200 Fairmount Ave. Atlantic City Join Noyes Arts Garage for their free Second Friday Reception. This month, celebrate the grand opening of Love Beach Blvd., a work space, retail space, and safe meeting space for LGBTQIA+ Community. Vendors will include Cyprus Soap Co, 341 NYC and LOVEMORE. Plus, enjoy live music from BAKKO, exhibitions from Kern Bruce and Stories of Displacement. The African American Heritage Museum of South Jersey will also be celebrating their current exhibition, Move 1976: Paintings by Melvin Irons. Masks are required for all visitors when visiting, regardless of vaccination status. Ice Cream Social at Jessie’s

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Jessie’s of Linwood 136 W. Poplar Ave. Hosted by Grace & Glory and Saltwater Athletics. Network with our community, make a new friend at yoga/crossfit, bring your family, enjoy a special menu of Jessie’s favorite sweets and have fun. Meet the Artist Exhibition

▶7-8:30pm

Ocean City Arts Center 1735 Simpson Ave. 2nd Foor, Ocean City. Local artist Jaqui Robinson will show her photography at this month’s Meet the Artist reception.

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Sons of Mystro

▶7:30pm

Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway Since forming in June 2010, Sons of Mystro has performed at a variety of events including ESPN/BCS Championship party, opening for The Fray, the 8th Annual Jazz in the Gardens, alongside R&B Band Jazz acts such as Najee, Fantasia, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Charlie Wilson, New Edition and Earth, Wind & Fire. They are also winners of the Emerging Artists Under 21 Award at the International Reggae and World Music Awards. Tickets are $32 with discounts for seniors, children and groups. Valentine’s Day Dessert Dance with Jerry Blavat

▶9-11pm

Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Join Bally’s at Dining on the Sixth for a Dessert Dance with Jerry Blavat. Enjoy desserts, cocktails, and live entertainment with Jerry Blavat for $20 per person. Purchase your tickets on Ticketweb.com.

February 12th Love AC

▶Saturday, February 12th & Sunday, February 13th

Absecon Lighthouse 31 S Rhode Island Ave. Absecon Lighthouse is hosting its annual Wedding Vow Renewal event in honor of Valentine’s Day… with a twist. It is lovely to announce Absecon Lighthouse’s “Lovr AC” event, which will feature wedding vow renewals, a “Love AC” themed chalking event, and artwork from local artists on each of the six lighthouse landings as well as in our museum space. The cost for a wedding vow renewal is $40 per couple, and includes a tower climb. As this is a fundraiser, we welcome you

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February 9, 2022


to give from the heart and increase your donation to keep this iconic Atlantic City landmark shining.

February 13rd

Enlightened Farm Valentine’s Day Market Stand

▶10am-3pm

Enlightened Café 6414 Ventnor Ave. Ventnor Enlightened Farm will help you spread the love with specialty products and produce including their new heart opener loose leaf tea, rose petal & lavender smudge sticks, beeswax candles and more. Bring your friends, family, or partner, shop, enjoy brunch, and live music. Chief Arthur R. Brown Foundation Super Bowl Pre-Party

▶2-6pm

Dock’s Oyster House 2405 Atlantic Ave. Atlantic City The Chief Arthur R. Brown Memorial Scholarship Foundation’s Thirteenth Annual Super Bowl Pre-Party, hosted by Former Senator Chris Brown, will take place this Sunday. Tickets are $20 at the door and include a buffet, a free mug with $1 beverage refills and door prizes. Proceeds benefit the Foundation which to date has awarded over $347,000 in scholarships and financial aid to South Jersey residents.

February 15th

Sustainable Book Group OCUT

▶7pm

The Sustainable Book Group for Ocean City and Upper Township will discuss the book “Saving Us” by Katherine Hayhoe in a virtual meeting this Tuesday at 7pm. Hayhoe is an atmospheric scientist, now based with The Nature Conservancy and her book “Saving Us” lays out her strategies for discussing the climate crisis. Register in advance for this meeting at bit.ly/SustainableBookGroupFeb15.

February 18th Flamenco Vivo

▶7:30pm

Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana builds bridges between cultures using the universal spirit of Flamenco. Tablao Flamenco is a program that captures the spirit of Spain’s flamenco cafes. Named ater the wooden floor used by a bailaor (dancer), tablao performances are highly virtuosic and improvisational, offering audiences a rare opportunity to watch the dynamic interplay between song and dance. Tickets are $32 with discounts for seniors, children and groups.

February 19th

4H Electronics Recycling Fundraiser

▶9am-12pm

David C. Wood 4H Center 3210 Route 50, Mays Landing The Atlantic County 4H will accept electronics for recycling at their fundraiser. Please contact 609-625-0056 or email ac4hfairgrounds@gmail.com for more information. View list of accepted items online at acua.com. Nature and Environmental Fun Day

▶10:30am-12pm

Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk, Ocean City The Ocean City Environmental Commission will sponsor a free family-friendly Nature and Environmental Fun Day at the Music Pier. The tentative lineup of participants includes Cape May County Zoo animals, Cape May County Municipal Utility Authority, Ocean City Environmental Commission, Ocean City High School Environmental Association, Bowfish Kids and Ocean City Public Works.

Atlantic County Library Galloway Branch 306 E. Jimmie Reeds Rd. Atlantic Cape Community College is hosting a series of Family Information Sessions at area libraries over the next two months designed to give prospective students and their families or caregivers information on all Atlantic Cape has to offer, ways to register for classes and information on financial aid and scholarships. During these sessions, receive information on the college’s Three Free Credits program, and how to receive a free laptop by registering for six or more credits. RSVP at atlantic.edu/family. For questions, call 609-343-5000 or email admissions@atlantic.edu. Harlem Globetrotters

▶7pm

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Spread Game Tour is a basketball event like no other. Ankle-breaking moves, jaw-dropping swag, and rim-rattling dunks are only some of the thrill you can expect from this fully modernized show. Part streetball from the players who defined it, plus interactive family entertainment, the new tour will show off the best of the Globetrotters in a dazzling exhibition of talent and game. The King’s Singers: Masterpiece

▶7:30pm

Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway The King’s Singers have represented

the gold standard in a capella singing on the world’s greatest stages for over 50 years. They are renowned for their unrivaled technique, versatility and skill in performance, and for their consummate musicianship, drawing on both the group’s rich heritage and its pioneering spirit to create an extraordinary wealth of original works and unique collaborations. Tickets are $35 with discounts for seniors, children and groups. For more information, visit stockton.edu/pac.

February 23rd

Ocean City Community Blood Drive

▶1-6pm

Ocean City Masonic Lodge 171 940 Wesley Ave. Warm hearts this winter and give blood. Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood. org and enter: octabernacle to schedule an appointment. Maximize your blood donation. Help more patients. If you are an eligible type O, B– or A– donor, consider making a Power Red donation. Red blood cells are the most commonly transfused blood component. Tech Drop-In

▶3:30-6pm

Ocean City Library 1735 Simpson Ave. Got a tech issue? Setting up a new device? Interested in accessing Digital Library materials? Let us help. Our librarian

↘Continued on 14

February 22nd

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↘Continued from 13 Kyle can assist with one-on-one instruction. Registration required. Register online at oceancitylibrary.org/calendar.

February 25th

Fourth Friday at Nashville North Studios

▶3-8pm

210 New Rd. Suite 8, Linwood WabiSabi is a Japanese term, defined as “wisdom in natural simplicity.” In art books, it is typically defined as “flawed beauty.” Join Nashville North Studios for this month’s Fourth Friday reception, and exhibition of both group and solo works, featuring Diane Tomash, with music by Tony DeLuca. Timed entry with reservations and masks required. For more information, call 609-504-5044.

February 26th

2nd Annual Scavenger Hunt

▶12:30-5pm

Vagabond 672 N Trenton Ave. Atlantic City Join Vagabond AC for their 2nd Annual Scavenger Hunt. Solve riddles, fund clues, complete challenges at Wonder Bar, Ducktown & Vagabond. All proceeds benefit the annual Coats for Kids drive which provides brand new winter coats for Atlantic City students through the nonprofit organization Operation Warm. All participants will check-in at Vagaond beginning at 11:30 and no later than 12:30.

Learn more at facebook.com/pg/vagabondac. Must be 21 or older to participate. Remembering Jamie Italian Night Dinner Egg Harbor Township Elks Save the date for the 22nd Annual Remembering Jamie fundraiser. Tickets can be purchased at rememberingjamie. org. Adults are $15 and children are $5. For more information, contact Jim Crescenzo at jcrescenzo@verizon.net or 609-3692965.

Fundraisers

JFS Atlantic Soup’er Bowl Fundraiser

▶Now-February 16th

607 N. Jerome Ave. Margate JFS will host a drive to collect hundreds of canned hearty soups (including meats and vegetables) to assure community members have a hot and fitting meal during these cold winter months. Donations will be accepted now through February 16th at JFS in Margate. The agency is open from 8am to 8pm Monday and Wednesday, and 8am to 5pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Financial contributions are greatly appreciated. Contact Susan Kotzen at 609-822-1108 x218 or skotzen@jfsatlantic.org to make a donation.

Health and Wellness

Rising Minds Peer-Led Support Group

▶Thursdays at 6pm

A Free Peer-Led Support Group Ran by and for 18-30 year olds. Share experi-

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ences, develop tools for self-care, connect with others who understand and engage in honest conversations about mental health. For more information, call 609652-3800 ext. 318 of email btrendler@ mhanj.org. Navigating Life as a Student During COVID-19

▶Mondays at 5pm

An open forum and support group for current college students to discuss topics such as self-isolation, emotional struggles and time management. For more information, visit mhanj.org. Zoom Meeting ID: 983 4490 8458 Password:209772 or join at bit.ly/CollegeStudentsNJ. Mindfulness for Balance and Peace

▶Tuesdays from 12-1pm

6814 Tilton Rd. Suite K, Egg Harbor Township Mindfulness strengthens our immune system, decreases stress, shrinks the area of the brain involved in worry, decreases cortisol, the stress chemical, and helps us sleep better. Learn to balance your mind and open your heart during difficulties using mindfulness, loving kindness, equanimity and compassion. Call 609-6460793 to sign up for a free spot. Gratitude Coffee Talk

▶Wednesdays at 9am

Grab your coffee and join us virtually as we use the gift of gratitude to disrupt the stress and anxiety many of us are feeling during this difficult time. Join Zoom Meeting ID: 201464217 Password: 597944 or call 929-205-6099. This is a program of the Mental Health Association of Atlantic County. Learn more at mhaac.info. Let’s Talk

▶Wednesdays at 4:30pm

Each week we will participate in a presentation and discussion of a wellness topic. Topics include but are not limited to mental health, coping skills, relationships, self-esteem and more. Join Zoom Meeting ID: 847 2224 7740 Password: 230403. For questions, call 609-652-3800 ext. 318 or email btrendler@mhanj.org. This is a program of the Mental Health Association of Atlantic County. Learn more at mhaac. info.

Wisdom Circle: Live Your Best Life

▶Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30pm

6814 Tilton Rd. Suite K, Egg Harbor Township Move your life from survive to thrive and transcend. Would you like to feel stronger and healthier in mind, body and spirit? Learn to feel embodied presence. We will practice experimental exercises including breathing practices, various meditations and visualizations, and relaxation. These practices enhance the development of a greater awareness of your essential and higher self. Call 609646-0793 to sign up for a free spot. NAMI Family Support Group

▶Monday, February 14th at 7pm

NAMI Family Support Group is a 60-90 minute support group for adult friends and family members (18+) of people with mental health conditions. Participants gain the support of peers who understand their experience and gain insight into others’ challenges and successes. All programs are free of charge on Zoom. Visit namiacm.org to link easily to all support group meetings and get the latest Mental Health information for Atlantic/Cape May Counties. For additional information, call 609-741-5125.

Bus Trips

High School Reunion – an 80’s Mystery

▶Wednesday, February 23rd

On February 23rd, AARP Chapter 710 will travel to Mount Hope Winery in Manheim, PA to see High School Reunion – an 80’s Mystery. The interactive “who-dunnit” dinner theater experience will also include wine tasting and time for shopping. The cost is $98 per person. For more information about Chapter 710’s bus trips, holiday luncheons and regular meetings, phone President Tom Owings at 609-263-1453. Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.

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Twenty Crazy-Easy Tips for Healthy Eating That Will Change Your Life By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

T

his year, like many, I have dedicated my 2022 to health and wellness. Please don’t roll your eyes just yet. I haven’t pledged allegiance to keto or kissed carbs goodbye; I simply decided to make healthier choices. I weigh myself once per week to track my progress. I’m not looking to become a model-slim or a bodybuilder; I just want to live longer. If you loathe vegetables and any form of exercise beyond changing the channel, read on. For all of you health-haters out there, I am here to make nutrition and wellness honest and realistic. So, as promised, here are thirty quick tips to eat better in the new year and feel amazing: Get an Accountability Partner Everyone needs someone to slap a croissant out of their hand. For me, it’s my mom. We go almost everywhere together, and when

we stop to work at the nearby coffee shop, she doesn’t let me order doughnuts or a scoop of ice cream. “You’ll thank me later,” she always says. Perhaps her mention in this article is my form of gratitude. By the way, make sure your partner will be tough enough to stop you in your tracks. A forgiving accountability partner is a condoner of bad behavior. It’s not allowed! Don’t Buy Unhealthy Food Some people might critique me here and say “all foods are healthy,” but that’s not true. Processed sugar is real, people. It's also delicious. So when you are grocery shopping, stick to the produce and protein sections, not the cereal or cookie aisles. If you have “treat foods” in your house, they will be eaten. Probably in front of “America’s Got Talent” in your pajamas. Set Boundaries Around When You Will Eat Certain Foods We can’t avoid pleasure forever. Experts say that it’s important to have all foods in moderation so we don’t binge after a month of bland salads. I love beer, and I love drinking it after work every night. Beer does not love my gut, though. I have decided to not drink at home and only let myself have one beer when eating out. I’ve had to find new ways to wind down after work, and that’s okay. I got this. Experiment With New Coping Skills I am an emotional eater, meaning that

when my life sucks, the gallons of ice cream I consume comfort me. Subtract the ice cream, and I am a very anxious person. Try different calming activities instead of binge-eating. Some popular coping skills include walking, riding your bike, calling a friend, taking a hot bath, or doing some yoga. Nowadays when I feel overwhelmed, I watch a funny show on Netflix and paint. Set Up a Reward System I have a colorful chart on my fridge that allows me to cross off each pound I would like to lose and a reward for every ten pounds. If you are trying to lose weight, I highly recommend this system. If you just want to eat healthier and get fit, connect rewards with different accomplishments (like being able to complete a certain class or eating under 2000 calories per day for two weeks). Rewards like massages, manicures, fancy coffees, tattoos, and downloaded movies can be motivating. When I reach my goal weight, I’m going skydiving with my dad. Visualize Your Healthiest Self Whether on Pinterest or in your imagination, picture how your life will be if you choose a healthy lifestyle. Maybe you’ll be able to backpack the Appalachian Trail with ease. Maybe you’ll be rocking some crop tops or bikinis. Maybe you’ll be showing off your one-handed

pushups at parties. It makes the future look more enticing, right? Make Protein the Center of Every Meal and Snack Protein is awesome because it makes us feel fuller faster and longer. My nutritionist recommended that I should eat protein with every meal/snack, whether it’s grilled chicken, refried beans, chickpeas, peanut butter, or lowfat yogurt. Here are some fun snack ideas: a handful of almonds, a protein shake, or a tofu scramble. Yum! Exercise! Nothing is worse than when you’re covered in sweat, finishing your workout with a plank, and having heartburn. That oily burn in the back of your throat reminds you of the fried shrimp you ate ten minutes before your HIIT class. Exercise requires a healthy diet to fuel all the movement and work your body is doing. TastyCakes will leave you feeling hungry and mozzarella sticks will make you feel lethargic. Choose fruit, eggs, or a protein bar before a workout! Stay Motivated Make your health the priority over everything else. That’s not always realistic though, right? Maybe you have to care for your elderly parent or work long nights at the office. Life finds a way to push health and wellness to the

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February 9, 2022


wayside. Refuse to forget about yourself. Create a playlist on Spotify for your daily workouts. Tell your friends about your wellness journey. Pick up some cute workout clothes. Find interesting new recipes online that fit in your healthy diet. You got this! Understand That Health is Holistic Feeling good is more than just eating rice cakes and running on the treadmill. See a therapist to make sure your mental health is secure. Invest in social relationships and save up for retirement. Tell your family you love them. Try meditating outside. You are more than a body. You are a fiercely-inspiring soul. Love Yourself Sometimes we make mistakes; it’s a part of being human. When you stray from healthy living, don’t beat yourself up. Everyone deserves snickerdoodles and a day in bed every once in a while. Choose to be healthier because you are worth caring for, not as a punishment for all the junk food you ate last year. Don’t stress yourself out until you get sick. Breathe and exhale negativity. Find An Active Hobby I hate gyms. The concept of lifting metal up and down in a mirror and running toward nothing baffles me. Gyms, in my experience, have been judgemental and cliche, so they are not going to be a part of my fitness journey. Instead, join a pickleball league. How can moving your body be fun for you? Take up surfing and paddle deep in the ocean. Sign up for martial arts and learn self-defense. Train for a half-marathon with your friends. Find something social (or not), create goals, and learn something in the process. You’ll be fit before you know it! Technology is Your Friend With Apple Watches, Fitbits, and even calorie-counting apps, health has never been easier. Track your steps with simply your iPhone, but with a smartwatch, you can track your heart rate, mode of exercise, and calories burned. Exercise equipment like Peloton bikes or smart mirrors (that’s right) bring virtual trainers into your home and allow you to have a gym-like experience without the commute. If you have the money, spend it on your health. Sleep Well Studies show that sleeping between eight to ten hours for adults leads to overall health and longer life. If you struggle with interrupted sleep or insomnia, try a melatonin supplement (doctor-approved, of course). Your body needs that time to reset and generate new cells, so try to reduce blue light from tech before bed and drink a calming, warm beverage, like tea. Don’t Use Anything “Too Good To Be True” If you see an ad that reads “Lose 20 pounds in three days,” avoid that product. Supplements and vitamins aren’t always FDA-approved, meaning they could simply not work, or worse, hurt your body. True health means focusing on real, whole foods and regular movement. You do not need some detox tea or elderberry pill. All you need is a balanced diet and a little exercise. It’s Not “All or Nothing” You don’t have to starve yourself to be healthy. In fact, you don’t even have to give up your favorite food. As for me, I am still eating

February 9, 2022

ice cream. I’m not eating entire gallons of ice cream anymore, but I have a popsicle every day. And that makes me feel satisfied. Pizza will always be one phone call away, just make sure it’s not your dinner every night. Choose balance over extremes. Try New Recipes There is a whole world of food out there that you haven’t tried. Dedicate every week to trying something new, like moon milk or guava or parmesan crisps. I’ve seen some people, in the name of getting healthy, eat boiled chicken and white rice for every lunch and dinner. Umm…excuse me? Where is the garlic?! Spices are very low-calorie and full of vitamins, so add some fresh-grated ginger or fennel seed or Thai curry or kimchi. Your palette will become so impressive!

Cut Sugar Where You Can Sugar creates insulin spikes, and too much of it has been proven to lead to diabetes. So opt for more complex sugars rather than simple ones, such as high fructose corn syrup or white sugar. If you drink coffee every morning, sub cubes of sugar with a sugar-free flavored creamer. If you are baking muffins, switch out white sugar for honey or agave. It’ll taste great and feel better! Eat Half of Your Meal when Eating Out American restaurants often serve massive portions that mean more calories per serving than a typical meal. Why? So they can increase the prices. Ask for a box with your meal, or even before it is served so that you can place half of the meal in the box and close it, focusing only on what’s on your plate. You won’t feel so bloated afterward!

Losing Weight Won’t Fix Your Life If you’re like me, you may have been fantasizing about being thin your whole life. You imagine a perfect you, confident, beautiful and strong. However, if you stick it out and lose all the weight, your insecurity might not go away. Weight loss isn’t a magic formula. Weight loss won’t change you, the inner you. You need to learn to love her in spite of her flaws, no matter what. She deserves it, too. Sarah Fertsch is a writer and artist who has recently moved back to South Jersey. She loves satire, a good cup of coffee, and exploring new places.

PICK YOUR DAY TO CELEBRATE VALENTINES

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Heat Up on a Cold Day With Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Let It Grow By Tammy Thornton

T

wo months into my air frying journey, I’ve gone from doubter to convert. Our family uses the “fryer” a few times a day, making everything from French fries and donuts, to broccoli and green beans. But when it’s bleak and cold outside, a little creative thinking helps fight the winter blues. My mind wandered to what else we could try in the air fryer. Why not experiment with one of our favorite restaurant foods—Bang Bang Shrimp! When the lightbulb comes on with a spontaneous meal idea, it’s a relief to find out you already have all the ingredients at home. We usually keep a bag of shrimp in the freezer for a quick meal. If time is money, buying deveined shrimp is definitely worth a few extra dollars, especially when you are trying to make a quick dinner for a family on the go. Defrost the shrimp in a bowl of lukewarm water for a few minutes, drain and rinse shrimp, remove the tails, and dry with paper towels. Then

let the fun begin. Using an air fryer saves a lot of time and mess in the kitchen, since you don’t need to deal with a big pan of oil. But of course, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can pan-fry the shrimp on the stove. Set up a breading station, using one bowl of corn starch and another bowl with two beaten eggs mixed with a tablespoon of water. For the third bowl or plate, mix panko bread crumbs with a little salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika. This is a very adaptable recipe. Don’t have paprika or garlic powder? Skip them. You can also use Italian bread crumbs and flour, but panko crumbs will add that gratifying crunch to the shrimp. Preheat your air fryer to 400°. Meanwhile, lightly dip the paper-towel-blotted shrimp into the bowl of corn starch. Then coat the shrimp with your egg mixture. Next, dredge the shrimp

through the seasoned panko bread crumbs. You might need to double dip them into the egg and breading a second time if you missed a spot. Once you have a plateful of breaded shrimp, give them a light spray of olive oil, and gently place the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the preheated air fryer. Don’t get distracted, these babies cook fast! In 3-5 minutes, check your shrimp and give them a flip, spraying with a little more olive oil if they look dry. Cook them for another few minutes until they are lightly browned. Now for the Bang Bang! Mix ½ cup mayonnaise with ½ cup red Thai-style chili sauce and, (depending on how hot you like your Bang Bang sauce) a generous squirt of sriracha. I also added a few spoons of honey and a squeeze of lime juice, but these are optional ingredients. If your spice-averse mom lives with you, serve hers with a mild

sweet and sour sauce. Gently drop the cooked shrimp into your homemade Bang Bang sauce and give them a flip before removing, being careful not to disturb the breading. For presentation, serve your Bang Bang shrimp on a bed of spring mix or Asian salad mix, then drizzle with more sriracha. If you are feeling extra fancy, sprinkle a few scallions over the dish. Serve with a big bowl of basmati or jasmine rice and steamed (or air fried) broccoli. Be forewarned however, once you make this dish, it’s very difficult to get a night off from cooking. When the eating is this good from your own kitchen, no one will want to go out. Shore Local would love to hear about your food adventures. What is your favorite restaurant’s copycat recipe or air fryer recipe? Send your comments, suggestions, and questions to: shorelocalgardener@gmail.com. Tammy Thornton is a mom of four, a substitute teacher, and a Sunday school teacher. She is passionate about gardening and cooking, and loves the beach.

“In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.” – William Blake From best-selling books to online resources, the Ocean City Free Public Library has everything you need to enjoy your winter. LIBRARY HOURS IN-PERSON Mon.-Fri. 9am-9pm Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm CURBSIDE PICKUP Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm

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February 9, 2022


Covid Recovering - The Biggest Lesson Learned

Jeff's Journal By Jeff Whitaker

I

t has been over three weeks since I came home from the hospital after a bout with Covid pneumonia. In my last column I shared some lessons I’ve learned from my time in the hospital recovering. As of now, my wife and I (she also had Covid pneumonia) are still on low oxygen but each day gets better. I appreciate people who’ve reached out offering their thoughts, prayers and help as we recover. Times like these really show you the kindness of others. In addition to the lessons I shared before, this whole experience has caused me to think harder about each of our missions on this earth. While my wife and I are well on our way to full recovery, in the past several months and even up to a few days ago we’ve watched as friends and others we know succumbed to Covid. It’s caused me to stop and ask myself a lot of questions, not the least of which is why them and not me. It’s a sobering thought. I don’t pretend to know the answer to that question. If I did, I’d be God. So, the only thing I can conclude is I will never know about others, I can only be responsible to examine my own life. If I’ve been spared, I have to conclude there is more to my purpose and mission. There is more for me to do. I’ve done a lot of thinking in that regard.

If you’re reading this column, you might ask yourself the same question. You don’t have to go through a life challenging event to do this. The fact you opened your eyes this morning is proof enough that your mission isn’t over. Take some time to think about that. This doesn’t have to be a complicated exercise. We’ve all been given gifts and talents. We all have relationships that are unique to us. The question I’m asking you is, are you making the most of what you’ve been given? I teach entire seminars on the power of our stories. Each of our stories are unique. Each of us has value. So, what about your life story can you use it to help or share with others? The fact is, nothing in life is wasted. The highlights and lowlights we experience make up who we are. My family is a family of faith and I really believe that every once in a while God sends us wake- up calls to remind us of what’s most important in life. For us it’s our faith, our family and our purpose. It could be that this column is your wake-up call. What is your mission? What about your story can you pay forward to someone else? Take some time to think about it and then find a way to go out and make a difference. Every day is a gift. Let’s not let it slip away. Jeff Whitaker is a veteran broadcaster here in South Jersey. He now draws on his experience and training to work with companies and individuals to develop effective storytelling, communications and leadership skills. Find free resources and ways Jeff can work with you at jeffwhitaker.com

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Black History Month Reading for Kids Moms Vibe: By Krystle J. Bailey

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onceived by historian Carter G Woodson, Black History Month is recognized as a time to honor and celebrate the African American history that is inextricably woven throughout American history. The annual celebration, which began in 1926, officially became recognized in 1976 under President Gerald Ford. While every day of the year is a beautiful opportunity to teach our children about the rich cultures, stories, trials, and triumphs of African Americans in this country, February is a special time to shout these stories from the rooftops. Many schools do a great job at celebrating Black History Month but the learning doesn’t end in the classroom. For more Black History Month reading, check out these recommended books.

Henry’s Freedom Box Henry’s Freedom Box tells the dramatic story of a young slave by the name of Henry Brown. Henry was born around 1915 but is unsure of his exact birthday. After enduring the emotional wreckage of slavery in the south, Henry makes a brave decision to mail himself to the north in a warehouse crate. Upon arrival, Henry celebrates his first birthday - his first day of freedom. This award-winning book is described as “a beautifully illustrated and gently told story.” Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People To Freedom Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People To Freedom is an astounding, emotional, inspiring book about Harriet Tubman’s first journey north. Harriet’s heroism earned her the name Moses, as she braved the wilderness, faced the unknown, and escaped to freedom, only to make the trek nineteen more times

to lead others to safety by way of the Underground Railroad. The lyrical text captures the spirit of the Harriet Tubman offering young readers a glimpse into the compassionate and deeply religious woman that Tubman was. Tar Beach This New York Times Best Seller and Coretta Scott King Award Winner does a beautiful job of using illustration and history to tell the captivating story of Cassie Louise Lightfoot. Cassie’s dream, growing up in a Harlem apartment building, was to go anywhere she wanted. She wished for unlimited freedom and allows the stars to take her away as she soars over the city in this magical story of culture and love. Timelines From Black History: Leaders, Legends, Legacies Grow your child’s understanding of Black History with this beautiful visual exploration of iconic names like Nelson Mandela , Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglas and so many more. The detailed images are created to compel children to think critically about the stories and the roles each historic figure played in history. The stories of black leaders, writers, scientists, and activists inspire readers to dive into key eras in our nation’s history from Jim Crow to current events. Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hammer, Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement Fannie Lou Hammer left a legacy of hope, determination and strength. Her

voice is one that will reverberate through generations as a fierce Civil Rights activities. This collection of vibrant images and inspiring poems capture the life of the great Fannie Lou Hammer as she championed equal voting rights and equity for African Americans. Counting on Katherine One of the infamous Hidden Figures, Katherine Johnson was a mathemetician for NASA during the Apollo 13 moon landing. As a young girl, Katherine loved math. She counted her steps, the dishes she washed, and everything she saw. She looked for opportunities to add things up in her head, as she was bounlessly curious about math and science. Counting on Katherine tells the story of how Katherine’s mathematical genius meticulously calculated the moon landing route and also saved countless lives when the unthinkable arose. Black History is American History and should be taught year round. However, February is a beautiful time to raise black voices, tell black stories, and celebrate the contributions of African Americans throughout the ages. Enjoy these books and the countless others available for your reading pleasure. Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet. Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5

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February 9, 2022


Keep Your Heart Healthy with Grains Nutrition By Nancy Adler

B

ulgur wheat is just good food! The high fiber helps to keep cholesterol in check. The potassium found in bulgar helps reduce the strain on the arteries and veins to maintain healthy blood pressure. Bulgur wheat is naturally high in fiber and low in calories. Since it is high in dietary fiber, it promotes proper digestion and helps prevent constipation, bloating and cramping. Good digestion is key to preventing colon cancer, diverticulitis and polyps. High fibers are digested more slowly, which helps to prevent blood sugar spikes and drops. The rich content of bulgar makes it a plus for many of your organs. Phosphorus, manganese and iron are found in bulgur. The high concentration of these minerals makes bulgar a real bone booster. It also has a healthy boot of iron to help keep immunity strong. Since bulgur is low in calories and full of fiber, it also promotes healthy weight loss. Please enjoy this recipe in my cookbook “Nancy’s Recipes For Life” available in my Linwood office location and Capellas Oil and Vinegar Store in Ocean City.

Herbed Bulgur and Lentil Salad:

Ingredients: 1 cup dry lentils ● 2 cups dry bulgar ● 1 cup boiling water ● 1/4 cup olive oil ● 1/4 cup lemon juice ● 2 cloves garlic, crushed ● 1 tsp. salt ● 2 tbsp. mint, chopped ● 2 to 3 tbsp. dill, chopped ● Fresh black pepper to taste ● 1/4 cup parsley, chopped ● 1/3 cup red onion, finely minced ● 1 bell pepper diced ● 1 stalk celery, finely chopped ● 1 tomato, diced ● 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) ● Lemon wedges ●

February 9, 2022

Wash lentils, place in a medium-sized saucepan, cover with water, and bring just to the boiling point. Turn the heat down, partially cover, and allow to simmer without stirring for 20 minutes or until tender but not mushy. Drain well and then transfer to a large bowl. While the lentils are cooking, place the bulgar in a small bowl. Add boiling water, cover with a plate, and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes. Add everything to the lentils except the tomatoes, lemon wedges and walnuts. Mix gently but thoroughly. Cover tight and refrigerate. Just before serving, top with tomatoes and walnuts. Then garnish with lemon wedges. Nutrition information: ● Serves 8 ● Calories: 159.2 ● Fat: 71 grams ● Carbs: 21 grams ● Dietary fiber: 5.7 mg. ● Protein: 4.8 grams

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Real Estate Matters By Elisa Jo Eagan

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n 2022, we have already weathered a few snowstorms and endured the cold weather. February warms our hearts as we are now one step closer to Spring. If you are preparing to sell your home, statistics show that Springtime is the time to get your plan into action. Real Estate is often compared to a sporting event. We are now in the "First Quarter of The Game." The dynamics of the market are always changing. Currently, the local housing inventory in Northfield, Linwood, Somers Point, Egg Harbor Township, Mays Landing, and all the shore communities are experiencing an inventory shortage. Now is the time to optimize the sale price of your home. Some buyers are ready, willing, and able, waiting on the

sidelines to purchase, and will pay top dollar for your home. The fact is, if you want to cash in, now is the time. Be mindful that the dynamics are always changing, and that the interest rates are on the rise. economic indicators for 2022 predict interest rates will inch up this year. It is forecast that the 30 year fixed mortgage interest rate will be in the 4% range. They are currently 3.60% to 3.75 %, which is historically low. There are still many incentives and first time home buyer loan programs and available grant monies, to qualified buyers as well as 100% financing for qualified veterans to purchase as well. Area monthly rent prices have escalated and are in many cases higher than your monthly mortgage payment will be, it is time to get preapproved for your mortgage before the perfect home comes up for sale on the market. You want to be ready. This February the market is heating up. Now is the time to buy or sell. 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!"

February 9, 2022


Stockton’s Maple Syrup Program Eyes Major Growth By Steffen Klenk

W

hen it comes to maple syrup, South Jersey is not the first place that comes to mind. However, a team of professors at Stockton University are hoping to change that. Two weeks ago, Stockton students and faculty members began tapping over 400 sugarbush trees on-campus, with the hopes of harvesting maple syrup. The initiative began as part of a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture to promote maple sugaring research and community outreach. Most of the maple syrup we consume comes from sugar maple trees (Acer Saccharum) that are native to forests throughout eastern Canada

and New England. Red maple trees (Acer Rubrum) are more commonly found in South Jersey, and because they are found in abundance on campus grounds, they became the focus of Stockton’s research. One aspect professors have been tracking is how weather affects maple trees. Winter is usually the best time of year to tap maple trees to provide the best flow for sap. While the recent stretch of cold weather has helped so far this season, Aaron Stoller, Environmental Science Professor at Stockton University, says there is still a lot to learn. “We

February 9, 2022

know February is a good month for sap flow, we just don’t know when to start and when to end.” In 2020, Stockton received a $410,000 grant from the United States Department of Agriculture to determine whether or not red maple trees could produce enough sap. That research has paid off. Last year, after collecting 1,000 gallons of sap from nearly 90 trees, the Maple Grant team produced its first batch of New Jersey Maple Syrup. Less than two years later, the Maple Grant project has been awarded a second grant of nearly $500,000. The goal of the project is to expand maple syrup production in the South Jersey and Philadelphia region. Ryan Hegarty isn’t just excited about the potential, but the benefits of leaving red maples up on their property. “I think it’s a great opportunity for people to get involved with the community, but also to realize that there is a resource that we can use.” Residents are also “tapping” into this sweet deal. The college has partnered with private homeowners and several non-profit organizations to collect their sap and provide data for the Maple Project. Landowners are required to have at least an acre of forested land and 10 or more red maples on their property. The Maple Project initially began as a way to learn about sap production in South Jersey, while also showcasing maple sugaring as a potential new industry. Stoller says the idea is not to compete with Vermont or Canada but to create a flavor that is unique to the region, while also boosting the local economy. “It’s a chance for people to enjoy Southern New Jersey just a little bit differently than they have in the past.” Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.

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Extra Points with Pete

Sports & Entertainment By Pete Thompson

A

s we turn the calendar to February, I’m writing this at home on a “snow day” off from school. It’s hard to believe, but we’ve already had four of these so far and we are barely into February. I don’t know about you, but I’ve had enough snow for a while! Since I last wrote, the NFL had one of its most entertaining playoff weekends ever. Plus, the matchup for the Super Bowl is now set. The Sixers are on a five-game win streak, but their most recent win might be their most impressive. The Flyers finally snapped a long losing streak, but a press conference from upper management left more questions than answers. One Flyer hits a major milestone though. Locally, an area high school basketball player hits a career milestone on the road. Plus, there’s a nationally ranked college basketball team in our area that you might not know about. From entertainment, a Netflix fa-

Tired of the Snow Yet?

vorite returns, but only with half of the final episodes. The snow day allowed me to finish a powerful book on a late NBA legend. Finally, another famous face from entertainment is “gone too soon”. As always though, we begin with sports, and my thoughts: ● I’ll start with the NFL as many folks were still buzzing on Monday January 24th after the most exciting playoff weekend maybe EVER in league history. The Bengals, 49ers, Rams and Bills all won in “walk-off” fashion and many folks couldn’t remember a more exciting weekend ever in the NFL playoffs. ● First on Saturday January 22nd, the Bengals got a last-second field goal from rookie Evan McPherson as they won 19-16 at Tennessee. One week after snapping a 31-year playoff victory drought, the Bengals finally won their first road game in the postseason after losing their first seven. They reached the 1981 and 1988 Super Bowls by winning on their home field. ● Later that day, Robbie Gould and the 49ers stunned the Packers winning 13-10 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. On a field littered

W. Scott Vogt & PT at AutoLenders

with snow flurries, Gould made a 45-yard field goal as time expired and San Francisco knocked off the top-seeded Packers 13-10 and possibly ended Aaron Rodgers’ tenure in Green Bay. And if those two games weren’t thrilling enough, then came Sunday January 23rd, where the Rams a 20-3 lead over Tampa into the locker room at the half. However, Tom Brady and the Bucs mounted a furious comeback to tie the game up at 27. With :42 seconds

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left though, Rams QB Matt Stafford threw a pair of deep balls to Cooper Kupp, and Matt Gay hit a 30-yard field goal as time expired to send the Rams to the NFC Championship game. Finally, they saved the best for last as the Chiefs were at home against the Buffalo Bills, and what a wild finish that game was! The lead changed hands three times in the final two minutes of the ballgame. Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker drilled a 49-yard field goal to send the game to overtime, and when Kansas City won the coin toss, Patrick Mahomes took care of the rest. Mahomes to Travis Kelce gave the Chiefs a memorable 42-36 overtime win, and put KC back in the AFC Championship Game for a third straight year. Which leaves us with AFC & NFC Championship Sunday, and while the games were exciting, I’m not sure they were as thrilling as the weekend before. In the AFC Championship, the Bengals continued their improbable run with a 27-24 overtime win in Kansas City to knock out the Chiefs. If you’re a KC fan, this one especially stings as the Chiefs blew an 18-point lead. If you’re a Bengals fan, you’re thrilled to see your team back in the Super Bowl for the first time in 33 years. In the NFC Championship game, the Niners led 17-7 after three, but Matt Stafford found Cooper Kupp to cut it to a three-point deficit, and then a pair of Matt Gay field goals first tied the game and then put the Rams ahead with just under two minutes to play. An interception by Rams linebacker Travin Howard essentially sealed the game for Los Angeles as the Rams advanced to Super Bowl LVI. In a weird twist of fate, this will now be the second straight year that one of the teams in the Super Bowl will play at their “home” stadium, as the Bucs won it all last year in Tampa. Now, the Rams will try to do the same thing at SoFi Stadium on February 13th. The Rams are listed as an early four-point favorite to win the game. We shall see if that plays out or not. One final NFL note as Eagles kicker Jake Elliott has been added to the NFL Pro Bowl roster. Elliott was added to the team after the original kicker Matt Gay made it to the Super Bowl. Elliott is one of four Eagles players in the game. Jason Kelce and Darius Slay were

February 9, 2022


named to the team last month, and Javon Hargrave was added as an alternate last week. Moving on to basketball now, as on the same day that Sixers center Joel Embiid was named NBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week, the Sixers had to run without him at the Wells Fargo Center against the Memphis Grizzlies because of “load management”. First, a word about Embiid as he won earned his sixth career player of the week honor, joining Charles Barkley and Allen Iverson as the only 76er players to win the award at least six times. Barkley won it six times, but Embiid has a ways to go to catch “The Answer” as A.I. won it 20 times during his career. Embiid won the award largely after he led the 76ers to a perfect 3-0 week, with wins over the Pelicans, Lakers and Kings. These performances included Embiid continuing his streak of strong performances extending his streak of 25-point outings to 17 straight, which is the second-longest streak in team history. And now to the most recent win, as I write this, which is a 122-119 win at home over Memphis made all the more impressive because the Sixers did it without Embiid. Tyrese Maxey scored a career-high 33 points while Tobias Harris add-

Grace Speer, family and coach Jackie Siscone

ed 31, and Andre Drummond hit for 16 points and 23 rebounds. Remember, this is a Memphis team that blew out the Sixers in Tennessee about a month ago, so this is an impressive win for sure. One final Sixers note and that’s on the status of Ben Simmons. The NBA trade deadline is set for February 10th, so we should know SOMETHING by the next time we write. One story that did come out, is that Sacramento is no longer interested in making a deal with the Sixers, lending credibility to reports that the Sixers are willing to wait until the offseason to trade Simmons.

In hockey, the Flyers won for the first time in 2022 as they beat the visiting Los Angeles Kings 4-3 in overtime at the Wells Fargo Center on Saturday January 29th. It was the first time since December 18th that they had scored more than three goals, and, not surprisingly, they ended up with the win. Topline winger Cam Atkinson had two, third-line winger Gerry Mayhew had one, and second-line center Scott Laughton sealed the deal in overtime. They have one game with Winnipeg before taking some time off for the all-star break. Flyers regular Derrick Brassard might be back after that break, but

in the meantime, there have been a few players from the Lehigh Valley Phantoms that have turned heads, including six-foot-six rookie forward Isaac Ratcliffe. Ratcliffe made his NHL debut against the Kings and more than held his own as a 4th line left winger. Plus, at 6-foot-6, he demonstrated a physical element to his game that will get Flyers fans excited. He finished the game with four hits, including one monstrous neutral zone check on Kings defenseman Mikey Anderson. My big problem with the Flyers is their ownership and management. Flyers Chairman Dave Scott and GM Chuck Fletcher held a “state of the team” press conference where the tone was that the team isn’t that far away. “I don’t really see this as being a three-, four-, or five-year rebuild at all,” said Scott, the Flyers’ chairman. “I don’t think Chuck does, either. We have a pretty good core. I think it really starts with a healthy [Sean Couturier] and [Kevin] Hayes, [Joel] Farabee. We’d love to have [Ryan] Ellis back. We’ve got a core group to build on. I think as we look at the reality of it, two, three pieces, we’d be great, maybe a little more.”

↘Continued on 26

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↘Continued from 25 ●

As a lifelong Flyers fan, the quote above is what scares me the most. The delusional thinking that the Flyers are just a move or two away. Personally, I’d like to see them “blow up” the whole thing and start over again. Fans are already staying away in droves, what do they have to lose? One final Flyers note as the team honored defenseman Keith Yandle in a pregame ceremony at the Wells Fargo Center prior to the game against the Kings for breaking the NHL iron-man record. Yandle, who has not missed a game since March 26, 2009, appeared in his 965th consecutive game on Tuesday, Jan. 25th at Long Island vs. the New York Islanders to surpass Doug Jarvis, who previously held the record for over 35 years with 964 consecutive games played. As I write this, Yandle now sits at 966 games and counting. In local sports, congrats to A.C.I.T. senior Grace Speer for hitting the 1,000th point of her stellar career on the road in a 46-38 loss at Delsea. What makes that impressive is that Speer did it on a rare 4-point play as she hit a three and was fouled. Speer scored 28 of the Red Hawks 38 points in the loss. The school honored her at the next

From Lower Merion to the Lakers - Kobe Bryant

available home game. She’ll play college basketball at the Florida Institute of Technology. Congrats Grace! Also in local sports, there’s a college team making MAJOR noise that folks need to know about, and that’s the Atlantic Cape Community College men’s basketball team. Under head coach Allen Ragland, the Buccaneers have ripped off eight straight wins, and have earned a national ranking. Their latest win was a 102-96 victory over Brookdale College and that's bound to get them more attention. Brookdale came into the game 14-

GET YOUR GRUB ON!

0 and ranked fifth in the country. Atlantic Cape is now ranked #11 in the country, just behind Brookdale. The Bucs are now 9-1 at home, and 7-2 on the road with games at Sussex County on Saturday February 5th and at #7 ranked Montgomery County (PA) on February 12th left in the regular season. ● As always, I’ll close with a few items from entertainment, starting with the fact that I binge watched all seven episodes of “Ozark” when they dropped on Netflix on Friday January 21st. I won’t give away any spoilers, other than to say that instead of a normal ten episode season, the folks that make “Ozark” decided to do two seven-episode segments to the final season. If the second half is as good as the first seven, this series is going out with a BANG. (literally) ● If you’re a basketball fan, I have to give a recommendation for you to read “The Rise: Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality” by Mike Sielski. I got the book for my birthday and once I got into it, I couldn’t put it down. What makes this book different than most stories about Bryant is that it really dives deep into his origin story and how a skinny kid who spoke Italian became one of the NBA’s most dominant superstars. I especially loved the mentions of my high school in the book, as Kobe did play against my alma mater a few times. ● Lastly, we’ve lost another one from entertainment as I forgot to write about Bob Saget last column, and now I have to write about Howard Hesseman. To me, he was “Johnny Fever” from “WKRP in Cincinnati”, but to many others, he was the loveable actor-turned-history teacher Charlie Moore from “Head of the Class”. Hesseman was 81. I do have one personal note before I close, and that’s to thank W. Scott Vogt and the fine folks at Auto Lend-

Howard Hesseman R.I.P. - 1940-2022 ers in EHT. Winter is never the time you want to purchase a new car, but they were extremely good to me and got me into an affordable car with affordable payments with no hassle or haggling. If you’re looking for a preowned car, Auto Lenders is a great place to try. As always, I’ll close this as I usually do. With a reminder that the pandemic is not OVER and I certainly hope you all stay safe & healthy. No matter where you are if a mask is required, it’s for a reason. Please keep leading with KINDNESS. Pete has been the local "sports guy" at the Jersey Shore since 2004. After a decade with TV 40, he joined 97.3 ESPN radio to talk Eagles, Phillies, Sixers & Flyers with Mike Gill on "The SportsBash" from 2-6 p.m. Pete is proud to be a "voice" for the annual ShopRite LPGA Classic each June, and does emcee work for groups like the National Football Foundation, The Old Grad Awards, and The 200 Club of Atlantic County. You can hear Pete each Tuesday and Friday on 97.3 ESPN at 5:30pm, and if you see him out & about in the community, he requests that you please say "Hi". Send comments to PBrooksT@aol.com

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How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day if You Have a Lonely Heart Celebrate Your Single Self

softest pajamas and watch Dirty Dancing (or an equally comforting film). You’ll wish it was Valentine’s Day every day!

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

M

aybe your boyfriend just dumped you. Maybe your wife passed away a few years ago. Maybe online dating hasn’t worked for you, or you’ve been married to your work for decades. Valentine’s Day has rolled around once again, and single people are forced to reflect on their lonely prospects. Don’t wallow in misery and ice cream on February 14th. Here are my tips for celebrating Love Day when you feel like love is hard to find:

Take Yourself on a Date

I know it sounds cliche, but treating yourself is wonderful and will take your mind off your single status. Go to a trashy movie, book a massage, shop until you drop at the outlet stores, and if you are really bold, try the tasting menu at a fancy restaurant by yourself. If dining solo scares you, order Thai food and eat it in your

Cook Dinner for Your Parents

Celebrate someone else’s love this year! Collaborate with your dad to surprise your mom with a homemade meal with candles and champagne. Page through an old cookbook and make something luxurious, like oysters, lobster, risotto or a charcuterie board. Use Pinterest for inspiring beautiful table spreads or romantic playlists. Your mom will be over the moon!

Host a Singles Party

Gather all of your single pals and host the ultimate event. Whether you plan a board game tournament or 1920s Gatsby extravaganza, a little party planning is all you need. Enlist one of your co-hosts to manage invitations and food while you decorate

and set up music. Maybe your single friends will find love at your party!

Make Some Money

Monopolize on traditional Valentine’s Day activities and earn some extra cash. Babysit your nieces and nephews so your brother and his wife can grab drinks at a local bar. If your best friend and her fiance are going to New York City for the weekend, offer to care for their dog and water their plants. If you love photography, snap some lovey-dovey pics of your neighbor and his husband. Get creative and make some bucks!

There is no need to mourn your independence! Hundreds of people are unhappy in their relationships or face overwhelming responsibilities. Blast songs like “Single Ladies,” “We are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” “Riding Solo,” and “Thank You, Next.” Watch films that don’t put romance on a pedestal, like “Moana,” “Little Women,” and “Legally Blonde.” Journal about the pros and cons of single life and remind yourself that even though you didn’t receive roses, you are a complete person who doesn’t need another person to make you feel whole. Don’t let Valentine’s Day hurt your ego. You are worth more than you know. Sarah Fertsch is a writer and artist who has recently moved back to South Jersey. She loves satire, a good cup of coffee, and exploring new places.

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February 9, 2022

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OC Lifeguard Joe Schmitt 1940-2022

A Look Back By Fred Miller

J

oe Schmitt, an Ocean City Beach Patrol legend, died on January 25, 2022 at the age of 81. He joined the patrol in 1957, and was made a lieutenant in 1967. He retired in September 2011. Fred Miller wrote an article in the August 31, 2011, Ocean City Sentinel: “Fifty-four years ago, June 25, 1957, the Ocean City Sentinel-Ledger reported OCBP Captain Thomas Williams hired twelve new lifeguards. The article named the rookies and Joe Schmitt was on the list. Thus began a career that would last fifty-five summers. “He announced on August 15 that this was his last year on the patrol. “The 2011 OCBP yearbook devoted a full page to Joe saluting him for his 55 years of service. It included the following information: longest working beach patrol member in the history of the OCBP; United States Lifesaving Association national champion; originator of Schmitt Classic and Schmitt Relays; OCBP Hall of Fame member; and retired physical education teacher and coach.” On September 8, 2011, Ocean City Council honored Lt. Schmitt for his “leadership, passion, devotion and dedication to the Ocean City Beach Patrol.”

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SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

Events Abound-11 Night In Venice Winners-26 Pop Culture Connections-16 Talking Philly: Hoagies & Jimmies-38

The Sentinel article included a picture of Lt. Schmitt on a beach patrol vehicle. Fred Miller took this picture. Ten years after Schmitt retired, his

picture was on the cover of the July 29, 2021, Shore Local. The picture, showing Joe competing the Schmitt Relays, was taken by Charles Eberson.

February 9, 2022


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niche hobby has surfaced in recent years whereby sneaker enthusiasts collect, trade, and sell high-value sneakers. What may seem like an average shoe to you and me could actually be worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. I remember my nephew showing me a pair of high-tops years ago and telling me he had just sold them for almost $1000. He was only 13 at the time, and I simply could not believe someone was willing to pay that much for what looked like a pair of shoes I could get at Macy’s. Sneakers are often released in collections, and people aim to amass them all to sell at a higher price collectively. Back in 2008, a pair of Kanye West Nike

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Air Yeezy Grammy Prototypes sold for a staggering $1.8 million via private sale. Yes. You read that right. This of course is on the extreme end of the spectrum of sneaker collecting; however, it is not uncommon to see sneakers being sold for four figures or more. It has become so popular that it is now the primary source of income for some and is estimated to be a multi-billion-dollar industry. Motivations behind it range from simply liking a pair of shoes, the satisfaction of collecting a full set, or purely for making a profit. Whatever people’s reasoning, it is clear that there is a large market for collecting sneakers. Many limited-edition sneakers are now considered to be a part of fashion history and are on display in museums. With its popularity at an all-time high, conventions are popping up globally where sneakerheads (the term for these hobbyists) congregate to share their love of obscure, rare, or popular athletic footwear. On Saturday February 12th, the Atlantic City Convention Center (1 Convention Boulevard, Atlantic City, 08401) will transform to showcase more than 1000 different pairs of sneakers from 12 pm- 5 pm. These sneakers

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will range from people’s private collections which are on show, to those on sale or available for trade. There will even be sneakers available for the mini sneaker head in your family so you can grab a pair of matching Air Jordans. If you are thinking about rocking up with a pair of your Nike Jordan’s from several years ago though, think again. There is a very specific criteria for what makes a pair of sneakers valuable. Most importantly, they must be unworn and unused – that means no creases anywhere. As bizarre as that sounds, they are to be thought of as piece of art rather than an item of clothing. Many of the sneakers you see on display will have only been taken out of the box they came in a handful of times. There are vendor tables available, but spaces are limited. Each vendor will have a 7 ft table provided by the event organizers and be given 3 vendor passes, 3 chairs, and parking will be available. Even if you are not a vendor, you can bring your own sneakers with you to show off or even trade with others. There will also be a selection of other merchandise on sale including phone cases, lanyards, t-shirts, caps, and more, all sneaker themed of course. The atmosphere will be high throughout the day with music provided by DJ Drumatic, and the event will be hosted by @garden.state.pusher. Sponsors of this event are @bwear24, @ aisle.23, @trapline.hq, @jawns_on_fire,

and @kreamsnkrsdmv_, which are all Instagram-based marketplaces to buy, sell, and trade merchandise. They also recently received sponsorship from Passanante’s Home Food Service who will be providing FREE samples of their delicious food throughout the day. Popular influencer, Cam’s Kicks, will be attending the event and the organizers have promised he will be looking to buy a large quantity of rare sneakers so you are encouraged to bring anything you may think he would be interested in purchasing. If you are worried about the authenticity of your new kicks, a “legit check” table will be on hand to thoroughly ensure you get what you paid for. The Jus Nice Sneaker Convention “mascot” Grinchy, a 2020 Yamaha raptor ATV, will be on display to take pictures on. This is always hugely popular with the kids! There will also be a high-stakes basketball free throw competition, so if you like your chances at making that shot and winning a prize, make sure you enter! Tickets are only $25 plus fees online but can also be purchased at the door for a slightly higher price, so I recommend buying now to save a few bucks. The event is partnered with The Sheraton Hotel so if you are looking to make a weekend of it, you can get a discounted room there. Vaccination cards are not required; however, you will need to wear a mask because of the nature of

being inside. Parking is available in the Convention Center for $20 and you can just turn up. Even if you do not consider yourself a sneakerhead, this is certainly a unique type of event which is worth attending to fully grasp the concept of this industry and understand why it is worth more than $10 billion (and estimated to reach $30 billion by 2030). It could even be a lucrative investment opportunity for you.

Dina Guzzardo is the President and Executive Promoter of Dina Media Group LLC. Dina Media Group is an innovative cutting edge event production and marketing company that produces and promotes large events as well as a talent agency that manages some incredible talent. www.dinamediagroup.com

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John Wesley Underhill’s Role in Mays Landing History By Mari D’Albora Dattolo

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n the early years of the twentieth century, Mays Landing was a community of 2,500. Of that population, the town was home to just one black citizen. He never married or had a family. Some even called him a recluse. His name was John Wesley Underhill. In his later years, his neighbors knew him as “Old John”. Underhill had a modest candy store, on the parcel of the current St. Vincent’s Catholic School. His penny candy shops were strategically located within walking distance from the downtown schools. Children would come by after dismissal to perform a song or dance that they learned in school, knowing their performance would earn them a reward from the

kind shopkeeper. A lost nickel could always be replaced with an impromptu show of talent. John Underhill ran Underhill’s until 1913 when the location was converted to a Pool Room. When John Underhill passed away in 1925, his neighbors were awestruck by what the reclusive man had bequeathed to their town. Years of working and saving had provided the shopkeeper with a generous amount of investment capital. The property he invested in and gifted to his hometown would later become the Atlantic City Race Course (ACRC). With his assets liquidated, his estate was able to provide his Mays Landing neighbors with a lifetime of savings, five times over. His gift to our community was $100,00! Mr. Underhill had left instructions to have a gymnasium built onto the new Mays Landing High School. He also requested playgrounds for the children and a park with a fountain and benches built for his neighbor families. Two plaques at the fountain are dedicated to his memory. We know this parcel today as War Memorial Park on Main Street.

On Old Egg Harbor Road is home to Underhill Park, where the township’s children have their football, baseball and cheerleading practices and games. The town has even hosted “Movies in the Park” for families in the fall, while other events are routinely held at Union Memorial Park on Main Street. John Underhill went home to be with the Lord in 1925. Mr. Underhill’s Mays Landing neighbors sent him “home” in full honor. He was laid out in the Atlantic County Courthouse on Main Street, in a bronze casket, surrounded by funeral wreaths and adorned with ribbons spelling out “Our Citizen”. It was determined that his final resting

place would be among his caucasian Methodist neighbors. In a time of racial segregation, this was a big deal. The procession of mourners to the Union Cemetery stretched out for over a mile. A fitting tribute to this fine South Jersey citizen. To d ay, his grave is marked with one of the largest monuments, b r o n ze in color, on the cemetery’s front left side. Despite his over whelming generosity, his greatest contribution was the gift of his friendship that he imparted to his Mays Landing Community.

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Taking a Winter Walk through Linwood Arboretum four-seasoned climate, battling brutally cold temperatures and hot, humid summers. According to the Arboretum’s website, their goal is to educate the public with uncommon or often rare, wooded plants, often suitable for home landscaping in our state’s coastal plain. There is a strong emphasis on plants that bloom during autumn months and, even, mid-winter. With warmer weather on the way, February is a perfect time to visit the Arboretum as the many imported plants and trees rejuvenate in time for spring. The Hellebore, often known as the Lenten rose, or winter rose, are part of the Ranunculaceae family and will start blooming later this month. They will often appear with their subtle colors of lavender, white, greenish gray and purple. Their foliage remains appealing well into the summer, making them suitable for mass plantings. Many of the plants found at the

By Steffen Klenk

T

here is so much beauty in the nature that surrounds us. Even during the bleakest of winters, the South Jersey region is fortunate to have many walking paths and trails where you can witness the wilderness that exists in our backyard. One of those places is the Linwood Arboretum. I recently made a visit to Linwood, where you will find this small but quaint location just off Wabash Avenue. The arboretum plan started in April 2007, after the land was purchased as part of the Green Acres program. The site, home to a former electrical substation, was refurbished with several walking trails filled with lush greens, trees and bushes. Linwood Arboretum opened to the public three years later and, to this day, the site is maintained by a group of volunteers through the Friends of the Linwood Arboretum. Most of the plants found at Linwood Arboretum thrive well in our

Arboretum can thrive well in our continental climate, battling brutally cold temperatures and summers where temperatures can reach above 90 degrees. One plant that is hard to miss during a brisk winter walk at the Arboretum is the Gold Thread Cypress. With its attractive yellow foliage, this evergreen conifer plant is native to Japan, but can survive nicely during the frost of winter.

The Japanese cedar tree is a lush evergreen tree part of the Conifer family. The tree is distinguishable with its mature green furs. The Cornelian Cherry Dogwood is native to Southwestern Asia and Southern Europe but has found a home in Linwood. These plants can ripen red berries during the mid-tolate summer and is often eaten as a snack in Eastern European countries. The Linwood Arboretum has a special place in South Jersey. It is a place to explore, wonder and learn. Bring a camera for perfect photo-ops, or take a quiet, peaceful walk and enjoy this special trip into a world of green. Visitors are asked upon arrival to keep dogs leashed and are encourage them to urinate prior to arriving, as their urine contains a potent herbicide, which can be dangerous to the native plants. Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.

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Meet The Midwives speed on the scope of care that midwives provide to patients today. MIDWIFERY TODAY Midwifery today is far more than pregnancy and childbirth. Midwives are Views from the Shore with their clients from puberty to beBy Brian Cahill yond menopause. “Pregnancy, puberty, and menopause are normal physiologfew months ago, I was sitting ical processes for women, they are not in a meeting to talk about medical conditions or illnesses. We help some of the new programs them through these life experiences to Shore Physicians Group help eliminate fear and empower them would be bringing to our area in 2022, to be a part of their own OB/GYN care. and one of the new services discussed When there are medical complications related to these normal life processes, was OB/GYN Midwifery Services. Not to sound completely ignorant, but I we will treat them or seamlessly colknew next to nothing about this topic, laborate with specialists and physicians and quickly realized I needed to do when necessary to ensure they receive some homework. that advanced care,” said Stanley. I sat down with Maggie “As certified nurse midStanley, RN, APRN, CNM wives, we see ourselves as and Joanna McGrath, partners in our client’s MSN, CNM of Shore pregnancy journey. We Physicians Group’s work with our clients OB/GYN Midwifery to help them develop Services, and they were and achieve their birth very kind enough to edwish list while helping them manage expectaucate me on Midwifery Services. Thinking that I tions,” said McGrath. “We Maggie Stanley may not be alone, I thought develop a partnership of care. I’d share with you what I’ve learned We talk about their expectations so far (including that it is pronounced as well as their fears. We get to know mid-whiff-er-ree), and bring you up to our patients very well and we are with

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McGrath added, “Our goal is to emthem throughout this journey and there to support them in whatever decision power women of every age to take a they make.” role in their own health. We deal with MIDWIFERY BEYOND CHILDBIRTH normal aspects of their gynecologic The true scope of midwifery care health such as abnormal bleeding, birth encompasses women’s gynecocontrol, management of menologic health from the onset pause, vaginal dryness, and of puberty and their first painful sex just to name a few. As a midwifery period to life beyond menopause. practice, we offer com“We have young passionate and knowlwomen who will come edge-based services to to us with their mothwomen of all ages.” ers when they are 12 To learn more or 13-years-old and I about Shore Physicians tell them not to be afraid. Group’s new OB/GYN First of all, we are not going and Midwifery practice visit Joanna McGrath to do an internal exam. We are shorephysiciansgroup.com. To make an appointment with Joanna just going to talk with them and ask questions and they are going to likewise McGrath or Maggie Stanley, visit call ask questions of us on what to expect 609-365-5300. as they get older,” said Stanley. “We will speak with women in their 20s, 30s, Brian Cahill is the Director, and 40’s asking if they are content in Marketing & Public Relations for their sexual health and if they are happy Shore Medical Center in Somers with the way things are. It opens the Point. He is also a Board Member door to allow the client to speak freely for the Somers Point Business Association, an Adjunct Professor in about themselves. I have had so many the School of Business at Stockwomen thank me because for the first ton University, and is founding time they were able to speak frankly member of Somers Point-Comwith a healthcare provider and because munity First, a local volunteer they felt someone was truly taking the organization. time to listen to their concerns.”

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ood insecurity in New Jersey, and specifically Southern New Jersey, has become a growing concern. With over 60,000 people struggling to eat in Atlantic, Cape May, and Cumberland Counties, 19,000 of them children, or 17.3%, the need has never been greater to raise awareness and funds to help end hunger in our area. The Captain’s Table Reception at the Progressive Insurance Atlantic City Boat Show aims to do just that. Held March 3, 2022, at the Atlantic City Convention Center from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the dinner will benefit The Community Food Bank of New Jersey - Southern Branch and Let Us Eat, Please, Inc., two charities dedicated to ending hunger. The Captain’s Table Reception will feature a night of delectable food, specialty cocktails, and decadent desserts presented by more than 20 of the area’s top chefs. Guests will also enjoy tastings of fine spirits from area wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Live entertainment will keep the evening festive and fun as patrons sample dishes from Bocca, Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern, Josie Kelly’s, Kelsey’s, and many more. All proceeds will be equally shared by the Community Food Bank of New Jersey- Southern Branch and Let Us Eat, Please, Inc. Community Food Bank of New Jersey, a member of Feeding America®, has been delivering food, help, and hope across the state for more than 45 years. Last year, CFBNJ provided nutritious food for over 85 million meals through its network of more than 800 community partners including pantries, soup kitchens, emergency shelters, mobile pantries, and child and senior feeding programs throughout the 15 New Jersey counties it serves. For our hungry neighbors, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey is the powerful agent of change that fills the emptiness caused by hunger and provides resources that are

essential to earning a sustainable living. "We're honored to be one of the beneficiaries of The Captain's Table year after year, and we are looking forward to the success of this seventh annual event," said Denise Hladun, Director of External Affairs at the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. "Alongside our partners at Let Us Eat, Please, the funds raised will help us provide for hungry students and their families in South Jersey - which has some of the highest food insecurity rates in the state." Let Us Eat – Please, Inc. was created in 2012 by the late James L. Cooper when he learned through his daughter, a teacher, about the negative impacts of hunger on children who regularly attend school hungry. Cooper, who dedicated much of his 82 years to advocating for the community, civil rights, and philanthropic causes, formed ‘Let Us Eat, Please’ to help address the issue. Cooper Levenson, Attorneys at Law continues the work of ‘Let Us Eat, Please’ in memory and honor of its founding partner. The VIP Reception tickets will include entrance to this year’s boat show all day on March 3, where guests can see and climb aboard more than 450 boats for every budget and lifestyle. Tickets are $125 per person. To purchase a sponsorship or tickets, please visit visithttps://give.cfbnj. org/CaptainsTable. To make a donation to the Community Food Bank or to learn more about food insecurity in our area, including resources for those in need, visit https://cfbnj.org/ hunger-in-new-jersey-2/. To learn more about Let Us Eat, Please, visit https://www.letuseatplease.org. A former educator, Valerie is a long-time South Jersey resident. She spent over 20 years in the classroom teaching students English and Writing at the middle school and college levels. Prior to working in education, Valerie worked as a professional writer and editor in Washington, D.C. Valerie currently resides in Margate, NJ with her husband and two teenage kids. When not walking the beach with her puppy, she can be found teaching yoga on the island.

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BeYou Arts Trains Young Professionals In South Jersey Performing Arts By Krystle J Bailey

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anielle Brindisi, owner of Be You Arts has traveled the world as a performing artist. After a high school soccer injury, she redirected her talents and poured her time and attention into singing lessons. By the age of 18, Brindisi was working on tour with celebrity singing teams, living out her performing arts dreams on the West Coast. Her experience as a young woman attending New York University in 2001 changed her world dramatically. Back on the East Coast, Brindisi was booking opportunities left and right while continuing to further her education in musical theatre. On September 11th, 2001, she witnessed the second plane crash into the World Trade Center. The post-traumatic stress that followed changed everything

for Brindisi. Her world shut down. She stopped singing and performing and began spending all of her time with her family. Having witnessed the most tragic experience, Danielle shut down. Years later, she eventually got married to her husband, never bringing up September 11th again. Brindisi went on to finish school, attend a brief stint at Temple School of Nursing, ultimately ending up back in the entertainment industry. Her healing began when she started singing again at the request of a nun who asked her to perform in church. Performance had always been her true calling and though she initially sang through the tears, she slowly became her truest self again. Brindisi went on to graduate from Stockton with a degree in Liberal Arts and Musical Theatre Education. Stockton combined her credits from NYU and gave Brindisi the time she needed to heal, grow, and come into the next season of her life. Danielle Brindisi now uses her life experiences, knowledge, and passion to pay it forward. As the owner of Be You Arts in Northfield, she teaches local youth the art of performance through

singing, dance, and theatre. In addition to the technicalities of performance taught at Be You Arts, Brindisi takes pride in teaching the kids about the emotional and mental skills needed to thrive in the performance world. Using her own life experiences, she is able to connect on a deeper level with her students, encouraging and supporting them through some of their toughest times. Brindisi taught singing lessons and bartended for years, saving her money to finally launch her own studio, which opened its doors in 2019, right before the Covid-19 pandemic. The studio quickly filled with students, boasting over 100 students and a 100% booking rate for those who auditioned. When the world began to shut down six months after opening, Brindisi and her team got creative with ways to keep the kids involved, knowing that the arts would be so important for their mental well-being during the uncertain times ahead. “Kids were hurting. They needed an outlet. It was so sad seeing their mental health decline,” shared Brindisi. The Be You Arts team got to work, offering virtual classes, fundraisers, and looking for

opportunities to safely gather as soon as possible. Four students were signed to agents during the pandemic including roles in movies and commercials. As things have begun opening up again, now two years into the pandemic, Brindisi explains that the arts have suffered greatly with the remaining uncertainty. In an effort to keep the health and safety of kids as the top priority, Be You Arts is offering small classes with social distancing protocols in place as well as private lessons as needed. Brindisi is hopeful for the future, as she looks forward to filling her cherished studio with dedicated students who find hope, healing, and passion in the arts. She is committed to creating a space where youth can learn and grow emotionally as well as in their skillsets. Be You Arts offers classes in dance, acting, improv, auditioning, singing, and so much more. Visit www.beyouarts.com to get involved. Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet. Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5

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February 9, 2022

ACROSS 1. Unfathomably deep chasm 6. Lawyer group 9. Factoid 13. Non-flat area 14. Loquacious person's gift 15. Member of clergy 16. Kitty sounds 17. Mesozoic one 18. All thumbs 19. *Who's Pieces? 21. *Life ____ 23. Comic book cry 24. Evening in Roma 25. Boar's mate 28. Bank deposit 30. Actress Ali or singer Tim 35. Flying saucers 37. Yeahs' opposers 39. One of the Muses 40. Ancient region of western Europe 41. *Sweet bear 43. In a little while, old-fashioned 44. Like a neon sign 46. Fashion's "New Look" inventor 47. Weasel's cousin 48. Cash in credit card points, e.g. 50. "Good grief!" 52. The Old Man's turf 53. Tucked in 55. Sine ____ non 57. *"Gimme a break" bar 60. *Egg with a surprise 63. Southwestern hut 64. Step on it 66. Small Asian ungulate 68. What radiology and biology have in common 69. Chihuahua's cry 70. a.k.a. Ernest? 71. Japanese money, pl. 72. Blitzed 73. Industrious

DOWN 1. Similar to an adder 2. View from a moving train 3. Yesteryear 4. Shopping ____ 5. Creates disorder 6. Forever and a day 7. *Hershey made the first American milk chocolate one 8. Belittle 9. Have supper 10. Tennis serving whiz 11. Memorial Day solo 12. "The ____ of Racing in the Rain" 15. Fast and lively 20. Increasing 22. Location of ulna 24. Hindered 25. *Principal candy ingredient 26. Allowed into a bar, e.g. 27. Past tense of will 29. Glorify 31. SI unit of mass 32. Raja's wife, pl. 33. Do penance 34. *Famous fictional bar 36. ____ gin 38. Smoke plus fog 42. Baghdad resident 45. Not strongly 49. CEO's deg. 51. Fertilized 54. C2H5 56. "J'____" by #46 Across 57. Green superfood 58. Desktop picture 59. Facebook photo links 60. Not disregarded, as in a promise 61. Marine eagle 62. Surprise at a speakeasy 63. *Almond-induced state 65. Cardinal 3 67. Bovine hangout See Solution on Page 42

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ne recent morning, I woke up with my body wracked with pain. As I did a quick inventory of my back, shoulders, neck, and knees, I wondered what I did to warrant such discomfort. Upon getting out of bed, my wife asked if I was okay. I asked, “Did we do something last night that I can’t remember?” Her expression was unmistakably concerned. As my mind cleared, I realized that I spent the last four days assembling a six-drawer dresser and a two-drawer, fivefoot-long entertainment center for the TV from IKEA. I have put other IKEA pieces together over the years, including a huge entertainment center years ago when my son was in the single digits. It took days, but it was a father/son bonding experience, and I was certainly more nimble. Having done it before, I was confident I could do it again. When we were checking out at IKEA, the clerk checked our purchases, and when she got to the dresser, she said, “You are missing two boxes.” Originally, when I picked up the one box with the corresponding number from the corresponding bin, I thought, “This shouldn’t be too bad, just one box.” However, now there were three boxes! When I got it home and opened them up, I was greeted with three plastic bags of assorted screws, bolts, little wooden dowels, bits of plastic and all kinds of fasteners that I couldn’t believe I had to use in the assembly of the dresser. It looked like someone swept the floor of a factory at the end of a busy day, gathered it into a pile, shoveled it into a plastic bag, and said, “Here you go!”

My wife described the enormous task I was confronted with to our son. He told her there is an app that one can utilize to have someone come to your house and assemble it for you. That was all I had to hear before emphatically refusing to take the easy way out. I opened the wordless thirty-eightpage pamphlet and went to work. Every wooden piece must be oriented exactly the way it is in the drawing. Each nook, hole, ridge, cutout must be perfectly positioned. It reminded me of the comic in the newspaper where there are two almost identical images next to each other, and you must find what is different between the two. That is how closely you must examine every single move. I have grown to respect the manufacturing prowess and ingenuity of IKEA. To design the various types of furniture and everything that goes into the packaging, as well as the instructions, really is brilliant. With that being said, what followed was a four-day crucible including a combination of yoga, Pilates, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with a little bit of Twister thrown in, followed by a Tylenol cocktail. As to the Eberson Law of Physics, I have determined that the frequency of dropped objects is directly proportional to the amount of pain one is in. The more difficult it was to bend over, the more often things slipped from my grip, and any efforts to pick them up looked like a slow-motion exercise. A yoga mat has now made its place on the floor, and the stretching in earnest has begun. I wonder how much IKEA pays to put these pieces together. It's a workout! Slowly, I emptied every plastic bag of screws, fasteners, and miscellaneous junk. Every piece of cardboard packing was thrown out. The pile of shelves, drawers and hardware became a dresser and TV entertainment center. All was good.

Solutions to page 41 puzzles. Check yourself!

42

February 9, 2022


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