SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | January 20, 2023

Photographer, Donald B Kravitz, of Egg Harbor Township, is being presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Photography by the Garden State Film Festival (GSFF).

Don is a local legend. He has a long history of capturing some of the world's most prominent entertainers. He also photographs Miss America, sporting and special events for Getty Images and for the City of Ocean City. His photographs have been showcased on both national and international platforms.

Don joins an elite group of past honorees that have been in attendance to receive their awards from the Garden State Film Festival including Diane Ladd, Laura Dern, Ed Asner, James Rebhorn, Bebe Neuwirth and Michael Uslan. Others who have attended include Glenn Close, James Gandolfini and Bruce Springsteen.

When asked his thoughts about being selected, Don replied, “I am so very honored to be considered for this award and overwhelmed to be chosen. At this moment I am speechless!"

Shore Local is incredibly proud to showcase Don's photos to have Don as a part of our Shore Local family.

Whales, wind and oceanic wellness

From the Editor

Irecently had the opportunity to snorkel in a coral reef sanctuary off the Florida Keys. I’m not often rendered speechless, but there are hardly enough words to describe the extraordinary array of beautiful colors and sea life I witnessed that day.

The multicolored display of pastels in huge peaks and oscillating reeds and rods was undeniably breathtaking. The underwater rainforest was filled with countless species of sea life existing in their natural habitat. I watched in awe as a clever-faced moray eel slithered in and out of its cave while blue and red parrotfish swam between anemones.

A five-foot nurse shark settled under the coral mountains while starfish, sponges, and sea slugs dotted the reef. Tiny minnows and sword-like barracuda swerved between jellyfish colonies, floating peacefully in the sunlight. It was a truly magical experience!

Bob and I have always felt a deep connection to the sea and all its wonder. Our shared love of the ocean was one of the things we loved most about each other back in college. That same love led us to start our life together at the Jersey Shore all those years ago. We find the salt water, with all its currents and waves, restorative and healing.

After watching ‘Chasing Coral’ on Netflix, I learned that in the last 30 years alone, half of the world's coral reefs have disappeared. I can't imagine a world where this magnificence is not accessible to our children or grandchildren.

Here, along the Jersey Shore, we mourn the seven whales that have washed up on our beaches in recent weeks. These majestic ocean mammals, the sound healers of the sea, must be protected. The lack of answers or solutions is leaving many feeling out of control and scared. The comments and shares on social media have been abundant. Everyone is feeling the sadness and uncertainty with so much left unknown.

Some folks worry that the deaths are connected to the offshore windmills project, and others argue the opposite. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is at the center of the debate, mud -

dling through the facts and necropsy results. We are so fortunate to have this outstanding organization leading the response. They are determined to discover what can be done to prevent more whales from washing up on our shores.

Our oceans make our home special, and in my opinion, are the closest we can get to Heaven on Earth. We need to do everything in our power to protect these majestic creatures and their homes.

This might mean reducing your everyday use of plastic, participating in a beach cleanup, shopping at a thrift store instead of a fast-fashion retailer, or donating to an oceanic non-profit like the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.

Like many in our community, we lie awake at night, restless and emotional over the losses of these whales. Our beaches have become a makeshift graveyard for these 12-ton mammals. Death is inevitable, and grief of all kinds comes in waves. While we are here, it is important that we continue to honor those we have lost and do our best to find meaning in life.

These precious whales spent their lives singing a beautiful song, taking care of their families, and making boaters smile as they surfaced for a deep

breath. They will be tragically missed.

For more information on the seven whales that have washed up on our beaches, read the feature on pages 6-7.

Sea Goddess Healing Arts, in partnership with the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, is hosting a free event in tribute to the whales that includes prayer, education, meditation, music, a drum circle, and more. See page 8 for more information about this event.

Our communities are made up of countless remarkably talented and innovative people. Check out the feature on page 18 about John and Jeff Jenkins of Absecon, who invented the heated seats that the NFL players enjoy at every game. Read about the Egg Harbor Township man who is recognized as a world-class fisherman on page 34. Another stand-out in this issue is the inspirational story on page 38 of Stan Adams, a former Absegami Swimmer with special needs who overcame the odds.

Enjoy this edition of Shore Local Newsmagazine, and don’t forget to show some love to our loyal advertisers who help make it all possible.

On a final note…Go Eagles!

& Love, Cindy

Peace

Brigantine whale fatality is the seventh since early December

North Wildwood and New york.

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

Aseventh whale has washed up on Jersey Shore and New york beaches in a little more than a month, and people want to know what’s going on.

On Jan. 12, a humpback whale washed up on the north end of Brigantine, found upside down in the surf during low tide.

On Jan. 7, a 30-foot juvenile humpback came to rest on the beach by the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City.

On Dec. 23, a dead juvenile humpback beached at Chelsea Avenue in Atlantic City.

The run of recent mortalities began Dec. 5 in Monmouth County and has included locations in Strathmere,

“It’s tragic,” said Delilah Morgan while walking along the beach in Atlantic City with her 4-year-old grandson Marcus. “These creatures are so majestic and we are so lucky to live by the same waters in which they thrive. But I guess they aren’t thriving at the moment.”

The question on everyone’s minds is why is this happening? What’s killing the whales?

According to National Geographic, whales beach themselves because of sickness or injury, which usually leads to a navigational error such as feeding too close to the shore. Sometimes old age is the simple culprit.

On some occasions, whales beach because they are pushed out of their environment due to pollution or overfishing. Locals suspect that sonar testing being done by Orsted, the developer contracted to build two

offshore wind farms 15 miles out at sea, may be responsible for the marine mammal deaths.

On a Shore Local News Facebook post about the whales, folks were quick to blame Orsted.

“This is an opportunity to sue and stop the wind projects for a few months until federal action is taken,” Jay Samson said.

Elizabeth Ann wrote, “I conducted research on fishing gear entanglements/ghost gear in the state of New Jersey. you’d be surprised how prevalent this issue is within the state. Nevertheless, plastic ingestion and boat strike injuries are also a major cause of whale mortality. It doesn’t appear that this whale had any visible injuries (I don’t believe the others did either), so sound pollution could also very well be a plausible factor in these recent stranding events. It's so awful that this is happening so often.”

Environmental groups called for a federal investigation into the whale deaths during a news conference Jan. 9 in Atlantic City on the beach where a female humpback whale was discovered. It was the second whale to wash up on the beach in Atlantic City within two weeks.

Clean Ocean Action and Protect Our Coast NJ expressed fear and grief over the marine mammal deaths and asked for greater regulation over the offshore wind projects.

Politicians are also getting involved. U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew released a statement asking for all offshore wind activity to stop “following an unprecedented number of whales that have washed ashore in the New Jersey/New york area over the past month."

“Since offshore wind projects were being proposed by Governor

Murphy to be built off the coast of New Jersey, I have been adamantly opposed to any activity moving forward until research disclosed the impacts these projects would have on our environment and the impacts on the fishing industry,” Van Drew wrote.

The Republican representative for Atlantic and Cape May counties added:

“Ocean life is being put at risk as our governor and president force through their Green New Deal policies, without giving full consideration to their real-world impacts.”

State Sen. Vince Polistina, a Republican who represents Atlantic County including Brigantine, Atlantic City, and other beach towns, also released a statement:

On Jan.12, 2023 another whale washed ashore on the north end of Brigantine.

“We should suspend all work related to offshore wind development until we can determine the cause of death of these whales, some of which are endangered. The work related to offshore wind projects is the primary difference in our waters, and it’s hard to believe that the death of (the) whales on our beaches is just a coincidence.”

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center based in Brigantine, which has been working to determine the causes of death and remove the carcasses from the beaches, released the following statement on the Jan. 12 case:

“The whale was a female, 32 feet 7 inches long, estimated to weigh about 12 tons,” MMSC posted on Facebook Sunday Jan. 15. “Preliminary results based on observations during the necropsy suggest that the whale suf-

Saturday, Jan.7, 2023, at approximately. 8 a.m., a deceased 30-foot humpback whale was discovered washed up in Atlantic City, near Boardwalk Hall. Photo by Ben Morris

Photo by Connie Pyatt

fered blunt trauma injuries consistent with those from a vessel strike.”

A necropsy of the Jan. 7 whale concluded that the juvenile female humpback was also struck by a boat.

“Although there has been speculation about whether these whale deaths are linked to wind energy development, at this point no whale mortality has been attributed to offshore wind activities,” MMSC posted.

“We will continue to gather data and go where the science leads us.”

The post said there is a high number of large whales in the waters off New Jersey, likely attracted by small fish.

“We advise boaters to go slowly (less than 10 knots) and keep a lookout for whales.”

There is a voluntary slow zone in effect for the waters off New york and New Jersey, MMSC noted. There are also active Seasonal Management Areas where all vessels 65 feet or longer must travel at 10 knots or less, off the ports of New york, New Jersey and Delaware Bay.

Sheila Dean, director of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, told locals not to be concerned, as some years naturally result in more beached whales than others.

Brigantine Mayor Vince Sera also issued a statement in response to

Preliminary results based on observations during the necropsy of the whale that washed up Jan.12, 2023 on the north end of Brigantine, suggest that the whale suffered blunt trauma injuries consistent with those from a vessel strike. Photo credit: Marine Mammal Stranding Center

the whale found on his island and the other beached whales. “We are heartbroken over the latest whale to wash ashore this morning in Brigantine,” Sera said.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center concluded that the Brigantine whale, like its predecessor beached in Atlantic City, was likely struck by a boat. However complete neocropsy results of tissue and other samples will take several months.

The other whale mortalities included a 30-foot sperm whale on New york’s Rockaway Beach Dec. 12; a 20-ton, 30-foot humpback whale in the Strathmere section of Upper Township on Dec. 10, and a 31-foot humpback found dead on Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett, N.y. Dec. 6.

The recent run of whale moralities started Dec. 5 when a 12-foot sperm whale beached in Keansburg,

Monmouth County.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center urges folks to maintain a safe distance from all stranded whales, mammals or turtles and to report all stranded marine mammals or sea turtles to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center immediately by calling the center's 24 hour hotline at (609) 266-0538.

Sarah Fertsch was born and raised in Egg Harbor Township, and holds a dual degree in public relations and political science. Prior to joining Shore Local full-time, she worked at a CSPAN affiliate, writing about Pennsylvania legislation. When she isn't writing, Sarah enjoys painting, horseback riding, and Crossfit.

Waves of Love event in honor of the whales

The afternoon of healing is free to attend; however, donations to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center will be accepted and encouraged. Donations can also be made directly to the stranding center online at www. MMSC.org.

By Krystle J Bailey

Seven whales have washed up on our shore in recent weeks, causing a great deal of concern from local residents to politicians and everyone in between. Necropsies are underway, and the full reports could take months to complete. While theories and research circulate about the causation, a collective of healers known as Sea Goddess Healing Arts is bringing the community together in honor of the beloved sea mammals.

As we wait for the necropsy results and look for potential solutions, there is so much out of our control. However, we can band together and pray for the safety of other ocean life. Sea Goddess Healing Arts invites us to gather for a ceremonial event intended to honor the whales we’ve lost and send healing vibrations back out into the water.

Waves of Love for the Whales & Waters is a free event that will take place on January 28th from 2:30 - 4:00 pm on Vermont Avenue beach in Atlantic City. In collaboration with the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the afternoon will include prayer, education, meditation, music, a drum circle, and more.

Whales are known as the sound healers of the sea and the re-calibrators of the world. The women of Sea Goddess Healing Arts aim to spread awareness and education about the well-being of whales and their healing attributes to the earth. As we continue to seek answers, you are invited to hold space for the whales through prayer, meditation, and sound healing.

For those unable to attend in person, virtual options are available. The live event will be streamed through Sea Goddess Healing Arts via Streamyard and will be shared on Facebook and youTube. Please go to www.SeaGoddessHealingArts.com for more information and a link to the live stream.

Formed in 1978, MMSC's mission is the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine mammals and sea turtles. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is the only Federally authorized animal hospital in the State of New Jersey that responds to these animals in distress and provides medical treatment. MMSC staff has been responsible for leading the emergency response efforts for the whales and has served as a safe haven for marine life for over 40 years. The Brigantine-based organization is responsible for 1,800 miles of tidal waterways and coastline.

Sea Goddess Healing Arts is a collective of women with a mission to soothe and inspire the community through hope, creativity, kindness, wellness, compassion, and consciousness. The organization is responsible for events, including The Last Splash fundraiser, The Absecon Lighthouse Spring Festival, and Surf & Soul Drum Circle.

Waves of Love for the Whales & Waters is a heart-led event created to hold space for each other and the ocean life that we share a home with. Follow SeaGoddessHealingArts on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with event details and other offerings.

Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet. Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5

Live & Local Music Calendar

Friday, January 20th

B Street Band 5-9pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Jonathan Daddis 6pm

Council Oak at Hard Rock

1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Bob & Nicky 6:30-9:30pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate

The Benderz 7pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean

500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

High Five Swan Dive 7:30pm

Villain & Saint at Ocean

500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Sean Loosh 7:30pm

yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora

The Usual Suspects 8-11pm

Josie Kelly’s Public House

908 Shore Rd. Somers Point

Dueling Pianos 9pm

Hard Rock Café

1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Coast 2 Coast 10pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Lifespeed 10pm. The yard at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

Split Decision 10pm

Mountain Bar at Wild Wild West 2100

Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

Go Go Retro 11pm

Nola’s Bar at Ocean

500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Saturday, January 21st

Stage 3 12-4pm. Renault Winery

72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City

Dane Anthony Band 1-4:30pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Beth and Dennis Party Duo 5-7:40pm

Bar One at Resorts Casino 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

SideStory 5:30-9pm. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Steve Myerson 6pm. Council Oak at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Cat 5 7pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean

500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Petty Cash 7-10pm. Bocca

7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate Chris Yoder Duo 7:30pm

yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora Indelible Groove Trio 7:30pm

Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular 8pm. Harrah’s Resort

777 Harrah’s Blvd. Atlantic City

Van Halen Nation 8pm. Sound Waves at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Glenn Roberts 8-11pm

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall

133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City

Steve Moore & The MIA Band 9pm

Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point

Steal the Sky 10pm. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Pulse 10pm. Mountain Bar at Wild Wild West 2100 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Event Horizon 11pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Sunday, January 22nd

Steph Owens 10am-1pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate John King 12-4pm. Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City

Traditional Irish Open Session 1-4pm

Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point BMW+ 4-7:30pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Dance to the Music: A 60’s Celebration 4pm. Sound Waves at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

David Farrell Melton 6pm

Council Oak at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City DJ Pat Conlon 8pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

The Neptunes 8:30pm-12am

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Monday, January 23rd

Amanda & Teddy Band 7-11pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Red 7-11pm. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget. 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City

Tuesday, January 24th

Golden Oldies with DJ Special K 5-9pm. Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Dane Anthony Band 7-11pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Wednesday, January 25th

Audio Riot 7-11pm.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Jazz by the Bob Sterling Band 7-10pm Bocca. 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate The BMW Band 8-11pm

Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point

Thursday, January 26th

Nick Blum 6pm. Council Oak at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Party Wave Band 7-11pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Friday, January 27th

Beth and Jimmy Jazz Party Duo 5-7:40pm. Bar One at Resorts Casino 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Grooveheart 5-9pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Way Outs 7pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Amanda & Teddy Band 7:30pm

Villain & Saint at Ocean

500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

SpaceCamp 7:30pm

yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora 60’s British Invasion 8pm

Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point

Dead Reckoning Duo 8-11pm

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City

The Burdens w/ Road Pig, Mad Splatter 8pm. Anchor Rock Club

247 S. New york Ave. Atlantic City

Bat: The Official Meat Loaf Celebration 9pm. Music Box at the Borgata. 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City

The Benderz 10pm

Mountain Bar at Wild Wild West 2100 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

The Cliffs 10pm. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Garden State Radio 10pm. The yard at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Lost in Paris 11pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Saturday, January 28th

Don’t Call Me Francis 12-4pm

Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City

Fat Mezz 1-4:30pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Ultimate Elvis Tribute Experience 3pm & 7pm. Sound Waves at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Kono Nation 5:30-9pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Greg Clarke 7-10pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate

Jumper 7pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Dave Greenwood 7:30pm

yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora

The Coconutz Trio 7:30pm

Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Kristen and the Noise 10pm

Mountain Bar at Wild Wild West 2100 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

Split Decision 10pm. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Sunday, January 29th

DJ Clinton Conyer 8pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Monday, January 30th

Big House 7-11pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Tuesday, January 31st

Steal the Sky 7-11pm

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Events subject to change.

Events and Happenings

Multi-Day Events ARTeriors Opening Reception

▶January 19 – February 19

2022 Baltic Ave. Atlantic City

Experience ARTeriors Baltic Avenue for a limited time, only in Atlantic City. Open Thursday-Sunday from 9am-5pm. Admission is free and donations are always welcome. Visits are also available by appointment; contact Kate O’Malley at kate@acartsfoundation.org. Visit atlanticcityartsfoundation.org for more information.

Indoor Auto Racing

▶Friday, January 27 at 7:30pm & Saturday, January 28 at 7pm

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

The Indoor Auto Racing Series returns to Boardwalk Hall for another year of high-speed excitement. The weekend will feature a first ever “Double Down” schedule, with two main events and two Gambler’s Classic Cup trophies being handed out, one on Friday night and another on Saturday night. Tickets available via Ticketmaster and Boardwalk Hall box office.

Holy Trinity Greek Winter Feast ▶Friday, Feb. 3, 5-10 pm, Saturday, Feb. 4, 12-11pm, Sunday, Feb. 5, 11:30 am-8pm

7004 Ridge Ave. Egg Harbor Township

Enjoy delicious Greek food you crave and prepared with the love of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in EHT. Plus, homemade Greek pastries, traditional Greek dance performances on Saturday evening at 6:45pm, and JTK Entertainment will provide dance music at the Taverna evening on Saturday from 7-11pm. Dine-in and take-out available.

Thursday, January 19 Piano Bar at the Gateway ▶7-9pm

2022 Baltic Ave. Atlantic City

Join Gateway Playhouse for their January Piano Bar featuring Michael McAssey. He is described as “one of cabaret’s most talented troubadours” by Broadway World and “the love child of Robin Williams & Mae West, and the grandson of Mel Torme” according to NiteLife Exchange. Tickets are available for $15. Visit gatewaybythebay. org for tickets and information.

Friday, January 20 January Family Movie Night at Ocean City Library ▶6:30pm

1735 Simpson Ave.

Join Ocean City Library for a screening of “Frozen 2” in the Lecture Hall this Friday.

Saturday, January 21 Chess Club ▶12-4pm

Ventnor Library 6500 Atlantic Ave.

Do you love chess? Have you always wanted to learn? Our chess club is free for all ages and levels of experience. Feel free to bring your own chess board or use one of ours. Guardians must remain present. Open to adults and interested teens and children ages 8 & older. Registration required by visiting www.atlanticlibrary.org.

Movie Screening of “Iron Jawed Angels”

▶6:30 pm

Ocean City Library 1735 Simpson Ave.

The Ocean City Colony Club in collaboration with the Ocean City Free Library invites the community to the screening of “Iron Jawed Angels” starring Hilary Swank, Frances O’Connor, Julia Ormond, and Anjelica Huston. The movie will be shown in Room 110 of the Ocean City Library.

Van Halen Nation

▶8 pm

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sound Waves 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Van Halen Nation is the premier 80s Van Halen tribute band to the

David Lee Roth era of VH. Come see them play at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino this Saturday. Tickets available via Ticketmaster and the Hard Rock box office.

Sunday, January 22

Bay Atlantic Symphony: Vienna Now and Then

▶2pm

Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway

Maestro, Jed Gaylin conducts Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 12 in A Major, K. 414 from the keyboard as he performs as our piano soloist in celebration of his 25 years with the Bay Atlantic Symphony. Tickets are available through the Stockton PAC box office or online at stockton.edu/ pac.

Monday, January 23

Sit-N-Kit

▶10:30 am

Somers Point Library 801 Shore Rd.

Bring your current project to the library to discuss, practice and learn your craft with fellow knitters in a fun and welcoming environment. Checkout some knitting books for ideas, and bring your supplies. Open to adults. Registration required by visiting www. atlanticlibrary.org.

Art in All Forms for Teens

▶6-7 pm

Mays Landing Library 40 Farragut Ave.

Explore different art forms. Embrace your creativity and make something you’re proud of, no matter how it works. All supplies provided Open to ages 12 and over. Registration required by visiting www.atlanticlibrary.org.

Tuesday, January 24

Mindful Storytime

▶10:30am

Brigantine Library 201 15th St. S.

Indoor story time – look for Miss Beth in the downstairs reading room. Bring a towel, yoga mat or blanket. Enjoy an interactive program that promotes early learning and a happy heart and mind. Please call 609-266-0110 to reserve your space or visit www. atlanticlibrary.org. Open to children ages 2-5 accompanied by an adult.

Furry Buddies

▶6 pm

Galloway Township Library 306 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd.

Read a story to therapy dogs, Erin, Kody, Fritz, and Frieda, who love sharing stories with children. Open to ages 6-14. Registration required by visiting www.atlanticlibrary.org.

SOMERS POINT & EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP

Marmora jeweler retires and Linwood restaurant opens

one-of-a-kind custom keepsakes, to repair all types of pieces of jewelry, heirlooms, and to set thousands of diamonds and gemstones.

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

Retirement is the word from Charles Stecher of Stecher Jewelers at 41 Route 9 in Marmora. Charles is a third-generation Jeweler who has been a gemologist for more than 42 years. He has announced his plans for retirement and a Feb. 11 closing of his store.

Like his great uncle, uncle and father before him, Charles has been dedicated to his business and to providing unparalleled service and quality to area residents and visitors. His knowledge, expertise and precise attention to detail have made him the jeweler that generations of families have trusted for decades to create

“It has been a pleasure for me and my family and staff to serve our customers over the years and we sincerely thank everybody for their trust in us and for their patronage. My wife, Tracey and I look forward to retirement, enjoying time with family and friends and travel to some favorite and new destinations,” Charles said.

On to Linwood where I followed the delicious smell coming from Central Square and found Sunday Gravy. It is the quaint restaurant creation

of Michael and Suzanne Chiarlanza. It is their goal to create an inviting and comfortable ByOB atmosphere with a fireplace.

With more than 30 years of experience in various well-known establishments, including the opening of the Borgata, their chef’s simple approach to Italian food includes homemade soups and sauces and a large variety of fresh pasta.

It's a must experience with all of the food we love to eat, cook and serve. Their caring and committed staff will ensure that you have a fantastic meal and experience with them.

Rich Baehrle of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach. Can be reached at 609226-6680 or 609-641-0011 richardbaehrle@gmail.com www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com

Charles and Tracey Stecher

Sunday Gravy in Central Square, Linwood owned by Michael and Suzanne Chiarlanza.

Crocheting for Beginners

▶6:30 pm

JCC of Atlantic County 501 N. Jerome Ave. Margate

Learn the basics of crochet with JCC. Register online at tinyurl. com/5c2c7w7h

Dance Society

▶Tuesdays at 7:30 pm

Somers Point Fire Co. 1 455 Bethel Rd. Somers Point

Enjoy an evening of social dancing and line dancing at the Fire Company Hall. Admission is $10 per person. For more information, contact Rita Voli at (609) 408-3619.

Friday, January 27

From Ragtime to Swingtime with the Vintage Jazz Band

▶7 pm

Ocean City Library 1735 Simpson Ave.

Take a musical trip back in time with the Vintage Jazz Band, a sixpiece group that plays popular music standards of bygone eras. Between songs, a short backstory about the song, title or composer of the next tune is often given, providing an interesting and entertaining presentation.

Saturday, January 28

Drop-In Lego Playtime ▶1-4:30pm

Egg Harbor Township Library 1 Swift Dr.

Drop by the children’s area to make your own Lego creations. This is a self-guided activity. Ask for Legos at the front desk. Guardians must remain with children aged 9 and under. Open to all ages.

Saturday Movie Time

▶1-3pm

Pleasantville Library 33 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.

Come in from the cold and enjoy an afternoon movie with the library. Stop by or call 609-641-1778 for the movie title of the week. Food and drink are not permitted. Children aged 9 and under must be accompanied by a guardian. Open to all. Registration required by visiting www.atlanticlibrary.org.

Meet Super Bowl Champion Brett Celek

▶6-7pm

DraftKings Sportsbook at Resorts 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Philadelphia Eagles legend and former tight end Brett Celek will make an appearance inside DraftKings Sportsbook for a free public meet and greet.

Monday, January 30

One on One Computer Help ▶10 am

Absecon Library 305 New Jersey Ave.

Navigate the internet, learn to use e-mail, and/or Microsoft Word. Open to adults. Appointments required by contacting the library at 609-6462228.

Know Your Numbers with the JFS Wellness Network

▶3-4:30 pm

Egg Harbor Township Library 1 Swift Dr.

Join the Jewish Family Service Wellness Network and explore the health-related ABC’s: A1C, Blood pressure and cholesterol. Learn the value of health indicators and how lifestyle habits affect them. Open to adults. Registration required by visiting www. atlanticlibrary.org.

Tuesday, January 31

Virtual Lecture Series with Ocean City Library

▶2pm

Join Ocean City Library for what is sure to be the most fun-filled hour of the day as we chat online with Randall Munroe about his new book What If? 2: Additional Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions. Filled with bonkers science, boundless curiosity, and Randall’s signature stick-figure comics, What If? 2 provides his best answers yet to the weirdest questions you never thought to ask. Register online at oceancitylibrary.org.

Health and Wellness

NAMI Family-to-Family ▶Wednesdays starting February 1 from 6:30-9 pm

Free of charge to participants, beginning Wednesday, Feb 1 – March 22 via Zoom, weekly for 8 sessions. This is a free, 8-week educational program for families, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. It is a designated

evidence-based program. Register online www.namiacm.org, go to the calendar at the top of the page, and select Family-to-Family.

Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 2 pm

Earth Angels for Dementia 115 Route 50, Mays Landing

Held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month. Call Diane Conover at 609-402-6966 for more information.

Mental Health Support and Discussion Groups

Online groups are offered daily for a variety of topics, including women, men, LGBTQIA+, individuals aged 18-30. Boomers, anxiety, depression, eating disorder, and many others. To receive a full list and to register, call 609-652-3800 or unitedbywellness@ mhanj.org.

Recovery Groups

More than a dozen groups for individuals living with substance use disorder are offered online. Topics range from mental health/wellness to employment, faith, and more. Groups are provided 7 days a week. Interested participants can register for groups through unitedbywellness@mhanj.org

Wellness Groups

A wide variety of online groups are offered to enhance wellness and introduce interested participants to ways they can improve their day-today mental health. These daily groups include meditation, art, music, journaling, eating healthy, exercise, spirituality, adult coloring, gratitude, and more. To register and receive links by email, call 609-652-3800 or unitedbywellness@mhanj.org. Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.

Euro Shoppe creates a community for those far from home

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

After spending 25 years working in retail, Zivile Abromaviciute and her adopted dad Dennis McConnell (who spent 50 years in retail) took a leap of faith. And in May 2021, the pair opened their own Eastern European grocery store on Tilton Road in Northfield.

When you walk through the store doors, your eyes are drawn up to the dozen flags hanging from the ceiling. Below, shelves are fully stocked with colorful packages with logos written in Russian, Romanian, Polish and other tongues.

Like any grocery store, the Euro Shoppe is divided into various sections: frozen items, deli meats and cheeses, canned goods, snacks and sweets, and fresh bakery treats. Customers wander between aisles, browsing a diverse array of food and drink.

A man glides through the entrance and is immediately greeted with big hugs and smiles. Zivile sings

“These people have left their home and haven’t eaten some of these foods since they came to America,” said Zivile. “They have vivid childhood memories and we offer them a taste of nostalgia. It’s really great.”

Margaret Kostrzewski retired down the Jersey Shore and discovered the Euro Shoppe in February 2022, inspired by their mission and community connection. She came in so often, and she eventually moved behind the counter, along with other part-time associate Sylvia Caruso.

Zivile emigrated from Lithuania and Margaret emigrated from Poland. Dennis, happy to help, drives over 100 miles miles from northern Pennsylvania to support his daughter and the store.

Zivile is the official owner of the shop, but is supported by her adopted dad and friend Margaret, who work with customers and restock the shelves. Zivile orders the inventory, which proves to be more of a challenge than for standard grocery stores.

“Most of our vendors are based in New york City, and we are their

‘Happy Birthday’ and the man’s face lights up. “We really get to know all of our customers and we even order inventory based on what individual shoppers want,” said Zivile.

The Euro Shoppe celebrates

and

honors Eastern European heritage and traditions. Zivile told Shore Local News that when a customer shops for the first time, they are often overwhelmed with emotion when they see a particular item.

only delivery stop in South Jersey,” explained Dennis. “This means that we will go for long stretches of time without certain products, or we have to drive north ourselves to pick up inventory. Sometimes we have to drive to specialty shops in Philadelphia and buy what’s on their shelves.”

The lengths that Zivile and her staff take are worth it when they see a customer have an emotional reaction to a specific food or drink. Zivile, Margaret and Dennis said that the most popular items are the pierogies, which differ in size and ingredients based on country of origin.

“We are a clean, friendly, well-stocked store,” said Dennis. “We build longtime customers from all over the world, traveling from Cape May just to buy bread. It’s incredible.”

If you would like to check out the Euro Shoppe, visit their website at https://euroshoppenj.com/.

Outdoor Ice Skating Rink

Heated benches, an NFL mainstay, got their start right here

football team during a Thanksgiving game in Ocean City. The forecast called for unusually cold weather.

Jenkins, the owner of Jenkins Plumbing in Pleasantville, got an idea. What if the benches were heated?

By James FitzPatrick Contributing Writer

It’s expected to be 40 degrees when the Eagles and the Giants kick off their playoff game 8:15 p.m. Saturday at Lincoln Financial Field.

The players will face many challenges as they take on their division rivals. But thanks to an invention that debuted in Ocean City and was perfected by a plumber from Absecon, the cold won’t be one of them.

Heated benches are standard equipment on all NFL sidelines in games where cold weather is a factor. But nearly 50 years ago, they were just an idea.

It was 1974 and John Jenkins was looking for a way to provide comfort to his son’s Pleasantville High School

He got busy, nailing some 2-by-12s together to make a bench and attaching sides to create an enclosed space. Next, he added a portable heater to create his first heated sideline bench. The players liked it and so did the coaches.

Pleased with his initial success, he refined his idea into a fiberglass bench that used ducts, vents and a combustion heater to warm the space beneath and seating areas. He applied for a patent in 1974 and it was granted in 1976. The Jenkins’ Hot Seat was born.

He perfected his design, testing variants with help from the Pleasantville High School football team and an Egg Harbor City manufacturer that fabricated the fiberglass benches in sections, minus the inner workings.

Jeff Jenkins, 67 of Absecon, was with his dad every step of the way as the Hot Seat grew from an idea to an

NFL mainstay and a thriving business. They got their big break in 1978 when they took the benches to Veterans Stadium for a Philadelphia Eagles tryout.

The Eagles liked what they saw. Soon they were hired to operate the seats on a lease-purchase basis for every home game. The Giants and the Jets soon followed.

As business grew, teams would either buy the benches or rent them. They sold benches to cold-weather locations, including Buffalo, Cleveland, Cincinnati, New England and Green Bay.

When cold weather set in they rented them on a per-game basis to teams that didn't have them. For playoff games they worked with the NFL directly, which wanted to be sure that both sidelines were covered.

“Every Monday morning I would get on the phone and talk to various teams after looking at the weather reports where the cold weather was going to be,” Jeff Jenkins said. “Then I would contact the teams that were playing and if they didn't have equipment, we would bring them in.”

It was a lot of work transporting, setting up and breaking down the benches. The kerosene-fired heaters had to be monitored to maintain safety. If they got too hot or players stood too close, they could cause the players’ synthetic uniforms to melt.

“I've seen people get burned,” he said. “There’s a lot of nylon and plastics in the equipment for stretchability. They just melt if they get too close to them.”

Jenkins believes the Hot Seats and the Eagles were instrumental in the establishment of the NFL’s equity rule, which requires home teams to

John English, right, accompanied his good friend John Jenkins on many Hot Seat installations.

Jeff Jenkins of Absecon worked with his father, John, to develop and supply the NFL's first heated player benches.

give visiting teams equal access to resources and accommodations.

Before the rule, equal treatment was assumed by gentleman’s agreement. Jenkins said that changed because of an incident at Veterans Stadium involving the Hot Seats and Eagles head coach Dick Vermeil.

“The benches were set up on the sideline, but only the Eagles’ side,” Jenkins said.

During the pregame, a coach from the other team commented on how nice the benches were. There were four benches and the visitors asked to move two to the other side. Vermeil said no. The next year the equity rule was enacted.

Jenkins said he and his father handled all of the bench business.

“I did all of the traveling. My father was a little bit older then so he did all of the Eagles, Jets and the Giants and the closer games with the crews,” Jenkins said.

The crews were mostly friends who were happy to help in exchange for being on the sidelines at an NFL game. Each crew required four people: two on each sideline, always an experienced person paired with a less experienced one.

Each bench section was made of two 12-foot segments, with each segment weighing about 200 pounds. Each sideline had two 24-foot sections. Each four-person crew tended to four heaters - two on each sideline.

Jeff Jenkins had memorable encounters with Hall of Famers including Jim Brown, who signed a football for him; Deion Sanders, who gave him his wristbands, and Jim Kelly, who shared a White House sub with him.

He moved quickly from being an NFL fan to a man doing a demanding job. The effort and time required kept him away from his family. He was gone most weekends during football season.

“I can remember Christmas morning getting home at 5 or 6 o'clock in the morning, driving all night from somewhere like Cleveland to get back for Christmas,” he said. He did a lot of driving straight through from distant places like Denver and Dallas to be at the plumbing business by Monday.

“It was a lot of time on the road, and a lot of time standing in the cold,” he said.

They had a game that was colder than the infamous Ice Bowl, the 1967 NFL Championship game between the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys that holds the official record as the coldest game of all time. That game was -13 degrees.

“In 1983 and we did a game in Cincinnati. It was a playoff game between Cincinnati and San Diego,” he said. “The actual chill factor was like 54 below. The actual temperature was about 35 below. It was the coldest place I've ever been.”

Jeff Jenkins said the Hot Seat was an extension of the kind of person his father was.

“He was always kind of an inventor. He was always coming up with ideas, different things in the trade and different things that he thought about,” he said. “He was always a problem solver. We still do this today.

“For him to come up with this and put in the effort and time in patenting and building and designing all this for an idea that he came up with when I was playing ball I thought was pretty incredible.”

Jeff Jenkins, who carries on the family business at Jenkins Plumbing and Heating, said the lessons his father taught him have served him well.

“Like my father said, ‘I'm never going to leave you a lot of money, but you will always be able to make a living with the education you've gotten here at the business.’ And he was right. It's lasted all these years. We are in our 73rd year. Still going.”

The Jenkins Hot Seat went away in about 2003. With the 17-year patent long expired, Jenkins is no longer in the game after a run of 25 years. Since then other heated bench companies have run with the ball including Dragonseats and Big Fogg.

John Jenkins passed away in 2003 at the age of 84, more than two decades after his invention’s humble beginnings on the visitor’s sideline of an Ocean City High School Thanksgiving Day football game.

Copyeditor and Contributing Writer James FitzPatrick has been a community journalist in Atlantic and Cape May counties for more than 30 years, including 20 years as editor of The Current Newspapers. He lives in Hammonton.

Zang Croissants fills a sweet and savory niche in South Jersey

By Scott Cronick

Some people just have unquestionable talent.

For my buddy Danny Eyer, he can shred the guitar.

In the case of my Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall partner Mark Callazzo, his gift is numbers and analysis.

For Georgeann Leaming … that woman can cook!

I have been lucky to experience Leaming’s food in a variety of styles and at a few different places where she served as executive chef, including the more casual Gordon Ramsay’s Pub & Grill at Caesars Atlantic City, the swank Gordon Ramsay Steak at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City and, most recently, FoodieHall in Cherry Hill, where she oversaw more than a half dozen concepts that showed off

her diversity, from pizza to burgers, from tacos to mac and cheese, from Asian to Italian.

The next bad thing I stick in my mouth that she prepares will be the first one. She’s that good.

Leaming, a Woodstown native, Brigantine resident and graduate

of the Academy of Culinary Arts at Atlantic Cape Community College in Mays Landing, is sharing her culinary skills in a variety of ways right now.

First, she’s sharing her knowledge at her alma mater, serving as an adjunct professor at the Academy, where she is helping students find their path in the food world like she once did.

Second, and the reason we should all rejoice, is that she recently debuted Zang Croissants, an amazing bake shop and eatery located in the S Building of Atlantic Cape Community College’s main campus in Mays Landing, where her creativity is exploding like anyone’s tastebuds will when they sample her goodies.

There are so many cool things about Zang Croissants it’s hard to list them all, but at the top of that list is that Leaming isn’t doing this all alone. Not only is she employing a current pastry student at the Academy, but her creative partner in Zang Croissants is no other than her daughter Kirsten, another Academy alum who concentrated on pastry studies there and currently works for the school as a culinary recruiter

Zang Croissants, which was initially envisioned as a pop-up, was so successful when it debuted in the first weekend of December, that it not only outgrew its initial space that prompted the move to the S Building, but it is now a permanent fixture 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – or sold out – every Friday and Saturday.

“We were talking one day with some people who I am consulting with, and we thought, ‘If we were going to do a pop-up, what would it be?’,” said Leaming, who at one time

owned two restaurants in Philadelphia, Suppa and Samwich. “And then we said, ‘Oh, what about croissants?’ They are super popular right now in other parts of the country and in the U.K., and I really thought I could make a concept out of the whole thing. It was just one of those moments when you know you have something that could be special.

And special it certainly is.

Leaming approached Academy of Culinary Arts Interim Director Joe Sheridan about leasing the space and kitchen – others sometimes use the kitchen as a commissary – and presented him a PowerPoint about how it would all work. Sheridan loved the idea, brought it to his boss, and now we can all enjoy some of the best croissants I ever had in my life … and that includes multiple trips to Paris.

“Croissants are something we haven’t seen much of in this area,” Leaming said. “There is a niche there, especially when it comes to creating so many different things with croissant dough. I knew people would enjoy it.”

Named after Augustus Zang, an Austrian entrepreneur who not only founded Die Presse, a daily newspaper that still exists today, but is credited as inventing the croissant – how is that for versatility? – Zang Croissants is everything a croissant connoisseur could ever dream of … and more.

For starters, the croissant dough is simply incredible. Soft on the inside, flaky on the outside and buttery throughout, the layered dough is a thing of perfection. Something like this must have taken Leaming months to perfect, right?

“Well, not really,” Leaming said. “I actually started with the same recipe that I am using now. It was something I just went after. I always teach myself different things, so why not croissants? It’s really all about technique when you are dealing with a layered pastry like this or a biscuit or puff dough. I have made my share of Wellingtons (at Ramsay) and biscuits everywhere I have worked, so it was more about taking the time and learning how to fold and layer and take the time to do it right to create all of those beautiful, buttery layers. I actually got it down pretty quick. The hardest part was learning to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the kitchen and things like that. It’s not just a cut-and-dry recipe. you have to modify and adjust based on the conditions every day. you have to know the feel of the dough.”

Most people in the kitchen define themselves as either a chef or a baker. Leaming said she never pigeonholed herself.

“I always thought you needed to know both to be successful, especially when you are running your own business and you have to create your own desserts,” she said. “And as a teacher, you might have to teach a pastry class or a baking class. So, it’s good to be diversified. you want to

be able to create your own menu from top to bottom.”

The chef, however, does appreciate having Kirsten create with her.

“She perfects a lot of my techniques … tweaks them to make them better,” Leaming said. “And she’s great at creating fillers and flavors and decorating, which she is better than I am at. Chefs don’t like to measure, but she is disciplined that way. Plus, we work well together. I was pregnant with her when I went to culinary school, so she was literally born into this.”

Zang’s menu changes weekly, but there are many savory and sweet staples.

On the croissant ($4) side, you can always expect to find almond cream, chocolate, ham and cheese and beef hot dog croissants. Other flavors may include spinach and feta, sausage and peppers (my favorite) and guava and cheese. There are also “Supreme Croissants” ($5) that take the shape of a wide elephant ear, feature a filling and a topping. Last week, the Reese’s Peanut Butter featured a divine peanut butter mousse and Reese’s chunks, plus there were also

pistachio and S’mores flavors, too.

Cruffins ($4) use the same dough but are shaped in the form of a popover or muffin. The cinnamon, cardamom and ginger savory cruffin was insane, but the roasted garlic, basil and mozzarella might have even been better.

“There are so many things you can do with croissant dough,” Leaming said. “And when you make it in different shapes and sizes and do different things with them, they end up with different textures and flavors. That buttery dough just works. It’s so diverse. And even after a day or two, you just warm it up, and all of that butter just brings it back to life. Like

last week we made these Nutella raspberry buns with the croissant dough, and they were just fabulous.” you will find other reasons to visit Zang Croissants than croissants. Last week, there were three styles of focaccia ($6) – heirloom tomato, balsamic and olive oil; goat cheese and caramelized onion; and tomato pie – as well as a sourdough boule. you can even have a focaccia sandwich such as Caprese or a bacon BLT. Add a bowl of soup – last week was pasta fagioli; this week will be chili and cornbread – for $4 to $8, depending on what size you choose.

There’s also cookies ($3), including the to-die-for brown butter chocolate chip – Leaming’s signature snickerdoodles are coming soonand beverages ($3) like Mexican hot chocolate, passion fruit oolong iced tea and raspberry lemonade. A coffee bar will be debuting soon, possibly as soon as this week.

“We will change things up every week,” Leaming promises. “One week we had a chorizo and Manchego focaccia. And I have a great cheesesteak that I am looking forward to using with the croissants somehow.”

With approachable pricing, dynamite flavors and a niche in South Jersey’s culinary landscape, Leaming definitely has something special with Zang Croissants.

“I am not sure yet what this will evolve into,” she said. “I love having it right here at the school. I hope we can grow, and I can hire more students so they not only learn how all of this works as part of their education here, but they can also make a few bucks doing it. I think it’s a great opportunity for them. The faculty loves it, locals are finding us, and I really think the students will be glad to see us here when they return from break because this café hasn’t been used for years. But no matter where it goes, I am excited about its potential.”

And so are we!

(Zang Croissants is located in Building S at Atlantic Cape Commu -

nity College’s Mays Landing Campus. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or sold out Fridays and Saturdays. Like Zang Croissants on Facebook and Instagram.)

Scott Cronick is an awardwinning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades.

He hosts a daily radio show – "Off The Press with Scott Cronick" - 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com, and he also coowns Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall in Atlantic City, while working on various projects, including charitable efforts, throughout the area. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.

Taylor Swift’s Special Connection to the Jersey Shore

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

n her 10th studio album Midnights, Taylor Swift describes snow on the beach as ‘weird but f—ing beautiful.’ She got her inspiration from our neck of the woods.

In case you weren’t aware, Swift grew up outside Reading, Pennsylvania on a Christmas tree farm. Like many families in the Philadelphia area, the Swift family summered down the shore.

In fact, Taylor revealed to the Philadelphia Inquirer that her family

owned a beach house on Stone Harbor for seven years. She spent her teenage years singing karaoke at Henny’s and played acoustic guitar at Coffee Talk Cafe. She has publicly described the Jersey Shore as ‘magical.’

In her music video for the song seven, which was released in 2020 on Folklore, Swift is shown wearing a Sea Isle City sweatshirt. The song is themed around a longing for childhood memories, specifically playing in the woods and pretending to be pirates. Maybe she felt nostalgic for summers down the shore?

Swift’s love of the Jersey Shore isn’t new. In 2008, when the young artist released her second album Fearless, she filmed the music video for the song Best Day Ever on the beaches of Sea Isle City! Perhaps because her best days were on that beach? Probably.

Since her rise to fame, Swift has been spotted at a variety of South Jersey businesses. She and her family have dined at the Lobster House in Cape May, Uncle Bill’s Pancake House in Avalon, and the Fudge Kitchen in Stone Harbor. She smiled and signed autographs for all of her fans.

This is what she had to say about her childhood summers:

It was really cool living on the bay, and we have so many stories about it. We used to all gather together on the dock when the boat parades would go by on July 4 and we’d shoot water balloons at them.

I made a clubhouse in the room above my garage and made a filing system of members of the club. Everyone had a profile that I would write on tiles I found. I painted the whole room different colors and used to spend all day in there just doing nothing but sitting in my little club. Because it was mine.

We lived across from the bird sanctuary and I had a pair of binoculars, and some days I’d just stare at the window, looking for birds. Or the boy who lived next door to me, whom I swore I would marry someday. One summer when I was 11, I wrote a novel.

I was allowed to be kind of weird and quirky and imaginative as a kid, and that was my favorite part of living at the Shore.

For all of these reasons, we believe that shore locals should get a special discount to purchase tickets for Swift’s controversial and highly-anticipated Eras Tour, which is set to come to Lincoln Financial Field in May 2023.

What's happening in Ocean City Registration for Ocean City Race Events Opens Feb. 1. Sign up for Running, Walking and Triathlon Events

If your New year’s resolution includes getting back in shape, why not set a goal by registering for one of Ocean City’s 2023 race events?

From the early-spring OC-CON Super Hero Run through the popular fall OCNJ Half Marathon and Trail of Two Cities, the city’s Recreation Department sponsors a series of races that feature spectacular views of the ocean, bay and boardwalk. Registration for all events opens on Wednesday, Feb. 1.

The 2023 schedule is as follows:

● OC CON Super Hero Run & Kids

Obstacle Course (March 25, 2023): The annual OC-Con Comic Book and Memorabilia Show features a one-mile boardwalk run for costumed “superheroes” and an obstacle course race for kids.

● Triathlon/Duathlon (May 21, 2023): A great event for families and first-time competitors

Chill Out at the Library

includes short distances and options with or without the swim portion.

● Labor Day Race (September 4, 2023): An annual Labor Day tradition includes a 5-mile race on the beach and 1-mile events for adults and kids.

● OCNJ Half Marathon (September 24, 2023): Ocean City’s premier event showcases the island’s neighborhoods, downtown business district, beaches and boardwalk. The event also features a 10-mile non-competitive walk/run and a 5-kilometer race.

● Trail of Two Cities (October 28, 2023): The 27th annual Trail of Two Cities covers a 5-kilometer point-to-point course along the Route 52 causeway from Ocean City to Somers Point. For more information and registration for all races, visit www. ocnj.us/race-events.

With best-selling books, DVDs, games, online resources, and more, the Ocean City Free Public Library has everything you need to keep the family entertained all winter long. Drop in for in-person events, sample our virtual programming for adults, or take advantage of cool digital content from Hoopla, Overdrive, and NewsBank.

Visit OceanCityLibrary.org for a complete list of resources, policies, and procedures.

www.oceancitylibrary.org 1735 Simpson Ave. | (609) 399-2434

Moorlyn Theatre — A Century Ago

A Look Back

By Fred Miller

Seventy-five years ago, there were four movie theaters on the Ocean City Boardwalk: Surf, Strand, Village, and Moorlyn. Last year there were none, but that may change in 2023. There are plans to re-open The Moorlyn Theatre this summer.

The Moorlyn opened to much celebration in 1922. “OCEAN CIT y TO HAVE FINEST THEATRE IN STATE” was the headline on the front page of the Oean City Sentinel on October 20, 1921. The article reported, “The biggest building operation in Ocean City this fall is the converting of the Casino Building at Moorlyn Terrace and the Boardwalk into a moving picture theatre that will not be surpassed by any in the State.

“The cost of remodeling, estimated to be $150,000, included the removal of the bowling alleys and building of the theatre. The Carpenter’s Dancing Casino on the second floor would not be touched.”

On June 10, 1922, the Ocean City Ledger reported on the resort’s newest attraction: “The equipment of this theatre is without question

the best that can be obtained, and nothing has been spared so far as expense is concerned.

“The seats, 2,000 in number, are large, roomy and deeply uphol -

air from the top of the building and disposing of it at the bottom, guaranteeing an entire change of air every two minutes.

“The picture will be thrown on the screen, which is larger than usual, and is so constructed that no distortion of the picture is visible from any part of the auditorium, by two of the very latest type projection machines manufactured by the Powers Company. This theatre will be the first one to use this improved type of machine.”

The June 10, 1922 Ledger included a large ad announing the grand opening of the Moorlyn Theatre.

Last month, local movie theater chain Town Square Entertainment puchased that the Moorlyn. It will live again after extensive renovations. "Ocean City deserves a movie theater" said comapany president Brett DeFafo.

Proposed Beesleys Point winery gets cool reception from concerned neighbors

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

It all started with a simple idea: grow grapes on a traditional tree farm and open a tasting room named after Ocean City, a famously dry beach town. Then the plans went awry.

Mike and Robin Halpern of Collingswood decided to retire down the shore. With Robin’s vineyard skills and Mike’s knack for business, converting a 5.2-acre tree farm to a winery and 80-seat tasting room seemed like a great idea.

When almost 30 neighbors came forward in opposition to the Ocean City Winery, everyone lawyered up, and the real battle began.

According to the Halperns’ lawyer Colin Bell, the couple is rightfully farming the land under the Right to Farm Act.

“This land has already been preserved for agricultural activities, and we believe that growing, harvesting, and producing wine fall under those categories,” said Bell.

Neighbors have come forward

during township zoning meetings expressing concerns over the prospect of large event bookings, drunk patrons wandering the streets, and unruly behavior in their residential neighborhood.

The Halperns have made concessions by agreeing not to host weddings, limiting the capacity of the winery and even changing the main Route 9 entrance to the vineyard. Despite claims made at township hearings, Mike Halpern said the couple’s intentions for the former Trop’s Tree Farm have been clear since the beginning.

When Upper Township brought in its own legal counsel and sided with the neighbors, the Halperns conceded by giving up their tasting room ambitions and focusing on producing wine for distribution and consumption off site.

Neighbors have said they are worried about the environmental impact of growing grapes. Residents also say they fear their charming residential village will be overrun with commercialization by out-of-town interests.

“To allow a tree farm to transform into a winery would jeopardize the health and safety of the residents, and is too great a deviation from the zoning law and master plan of the township,” stated a complaint from the neighbors read at the Nov. 22, 2021 Township Committee meeting.

Joe Falls, one of the neighbors who resides on Bayaire Road, predicted “more people coming to this neighborhood,” in comments to Township Committee. “Definitely with Pennsylvania people,” he said with a chuckle. “ you know who occupies Ocean City. you know what happens.”

“ you would think that these people care where their money comes from,” said Halpern, responding to Falls’ words. “It’s just smart business.”

“The tree farm was idyllic,” neighbor Karolann Kemenosh told Upper Township Committee at that meeting. “It was absolutely magical to be next to a tree farm. Now it is nothing but magical.”

Halpern told Shore Local News that he and his wife have been victims of vandalism, threats and trespassing on their property. Their lawyer has been dealing with these situations.

“All I want is to live in peace and not be afraid for my family,” said Halpern. “This behavior is so vindic-

tive. I don’t think they’ll stop until we are forced out of town.”

A decision on whether the farm can be used for producing wine has moved from the township to the Cape May County Agriculture Development Board. Bell said they expect the board to approve the application. The wine produced at the Beesleys Point farm would be sent to the William Heritage Winery in Haddonfield and other South Jersey tasting rooms for consumption. Any previous plans for a tasting room in Upper Township have been scrapped.

The fight isn’t over just yet. The neighbors have reported Halpern to the state Department of Environmental Protection over spraying his land with harmful chemicals and pesticides.

Halpern says that he is applying simple, lawful scientific farming methods, but there’s been no word from the DEP on the status of the claims.

“We have lost thousands of dollars and been abused by the neighbors, the township and more. We don’t deserve this wrath. Please, please stop harassing us,” said Halpern.

The winery’s site-specific agricultural management plan will be on the Upper Township Planning Board agenda 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, in Township Hall, 2100 Tuckahoe Road in Petersburg.

winter

Mike and Robin Halpern of the proposed Ocean City Winery

Harvested grapes on the Halpern vineyard

Avoid injury, take it easy on your puppy’s bones and ligaments

The ligaments, tendons, and muscles that hold their soft bones in place are also under construction, and do their best to prevent injury to the growing bones.

Dog Tails

By Heidi Clayton

Ioften hear from puppy owners who tell me that when they're walking their puppy, the puppy will sometimes put the brakes and refuse to walk farther. Most of the time it’s because they have pushed their puppy to walk farther than their puppy is physically capable of walking.

Here is a brief rundown on the physical development of your puppy’s bones and ligaments and what exercise is appropriate.

Puppy bones and ligaments generally aren’t fully developed until at least 18 months of age. Spaying or neutering your puppy before 18 months will result in even slower development.

Puppies have growth plates at the end of their bones which are soft at birth, but will calcify and harden as they age.

However, because growth plates are soft and those tissues are still forming, a sprain or injury to those areas can result in permanent damage to the growth plate. This can cause bones to grow at an incorrect angle, leading to further orthopedic problems as they age.

Jumping can result in spiral fractures, one of the most common injuries to puppy bones. They usually occur as a result of jumping and landing completely wrong.

Jumping from couches has resulted in two of my clients’ puppies suffering spiral fractures, which require plates and screws to repair.

Basically, your puppy is not physically built to endure long walks and long play sessions just yet. For me a walk with a puppy under 18 months of age is not about how far we go, but how good it is.

Walks with young puppies are short and sweet and more about teaching them proper leash walking manners. I avoid walking on pavement or concrete and opt for trails or grass instead. By short and

sweet I would say about 10 minutes of walking with no focus on distance.

While it may be tempting to let your young puppy run wild on the soft sands of the beach, limit the time doing it to avoid them overstressing growing ligaments. It’s quite the workout for a young puppy and people tend to push that activity too far.

If a puppy puts the brakes on during your walks, it’s a signal that you are going too far for them, not that they are being naughty. Refocus on training them in shorter distances and on walking nicely.

Puppy play sessions are an important part of socialization, but for puppies under 6 months of age, I end play dates after about 10 to 15 minutes. Play sessions are one-on-one play and closely supervised.

My puppy yoko suffered a spiral fracture at 10 months of age after jumping and landing wrong. Thank goodness her owner and I were supervising and could quickly render first aid.

As puppies age, I will add five minutes or so to the play session per month, but if a puppy seems cranky or is overstimulated, I like to end things to avoid injury.

Mixing mental stimulation with a

puppy’s short walk will tire them out more quickly than dragging them on long walks. Take the time while they are young and not ready for long hikes to instill leash manners that will pay off when the time comes.

Heidi Clayton started Four on the Floor Dog Training as a result after her struggle to find a positive and reward-based dog trainer in South Jersey. She breeds, trains, and shows her own bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

Heidi Clayton is a retired 25 year veteran of the Atlantic City Police Department. She started Four on the Floor Dog Training a result of her own struggle to find a positive & reward based dog trainer in the South Jersey area. She is passionate about giving every dog, even the difficult ones, a voice and the skills they need to thrive in life. She breeds, trains, and shows her own Bull Terriers under the SoraBullys’s Kennel Name.

A New Business Rides into the Somers Point Community

Views from the Shore

By Brian Cahill

One of the many things that make Shore Medical Center a special place is its connection to the community. The hospital, residents, and businesses are all intertwined in a mission of Caring Together. When people need healthcare, they depend on Shore. And when we need support, our community cares for us, too, through donations, volunteerism and much more.

One example of this symbiotic relationship is the Shore “Show Us your Badge Program.” Businesses offer special deals for Shore employees, and then these employees patronize the businesses.

As Marketing Director for Shore,

I’m part of the team that approaches businesses to see if they would like to participate. This year, a new business in Somers Point, Somers Point Cycles, caught my attention. I met with the store owners, Rob Wood and Jim Liberto, and was very impressed with their business, so I wanted to share with you what I learned about this new offering in Somers Point.

Jim and Rob opened Somers Point Cycles because they saw an opportunity to bring something positive to the community.

“We love the small, ‘Shore town’ town feel of Somers Point and how it is a wonderful place to raise a family,” said Liberto. “There was a void in the community so we opened our store on Shore Road close to where the previous bike store was located.”

“Somers Point is a natural place to open a bike shop,” said Wood. “We wanted to support the BMX track in nearby EHT and we have the bike path and bridge loop to Ocean City.

“Riding a bike is a great low-im -

pact, high aerobic way to exercise, and it is also a perfect social opportunity,” added Wood. “We are going to start group rides at varying paces in the Spring so riders of all ages can participate at a level at which they are comfortable.

Somers Point Cycles has a wide selection of bicycles to choose from, ranging from cruisers and BMX starting at $349, foot forward hybrids starting at $679, and salsa gravel, road and mountain bikes starting at $700.

They also have electric bikes starting at $899 which are ideal for

commuters or for those who need some assistance pedaling. Both Rob and Jim will help you make sure your bike is a perfect fit for you both physically and financially. Their goal is to make sure their customers are happy.

“We are both passionate about cycling and we want to bring that out in our customers. No bike sold in our shop should be stored away in a garage or shed. We want to see them out and about and being enjoyed.”

Somers Point Cycles is located at 602 New Road in Somers Point. If you would like to learn more about their bikes, related services, and the Group Rides, please email them at somerspointcycles@gmail.com

Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He is also on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.

Rob Wood and Jim Liberto of Somers Point Cycles

Eagles, fans excited for upcoming playoffs

While Eagles fans seems to get more revved up about playing the Cowboys, the Giants' rivalry stretches back 90 years. It started in 1933 when the G-Men beat the Birds 56-0 at the Polo Grounds, then earned a 20-14 win at the Baker Bowl in Philadelphia.

Ex tra Points

By David Weinberg

Joe Cirrinicione is a lifelong Eagles fan.

Jim Rochford's loyalty to the New york Giants is just as strong.

The Lower Township residents always make a bet when the two teams meet. A Birds' victory means Rochford has to drink Crown Royal out of Cirrincione's Eagles glass. A loss means Cirrinicione has to chug a beer from Rochford's "Big Blue" mug.

They will be making another wager on Saturday night, when the Eagles play host to the Giants in an NFC Divisional Round playoff game at Lincoln Financial Field.

"I haven't heard from the Giants faithful (Rochford) yet, but I hate that we have to play them again," Cirrinicione said last Monday. "We need to win or I'll have to leave town."

Eagles-Giants have produced more than its share of special moments, including at least three "Miracles of the Meadowlands."

Eagles linebacker Chuck Bednarik's hit on Giants running back Frank Gifford on November 20, 1960 is still considered one of the most vicious tackles in league history. Gifford had just caught a short pass over the middle when Bednarik delivered a clothes line hit that knocked Gifford unconscious. Gifford left the field on a stretcher and was hospitalized for 10 days with a concussion.

Almost exactly 18 years later, on November 19, 1968, Eagles cornerback Herm Edwards scooped up a botched handoff between Giants quarterback Joe Pisarcik and fullback Larry Csonka and returned the fumble 26 yards for a touchdown in the final seconds to give the Eagles a 19-17 win in the first "Miracle of the Meadowlands."

Miracle number two came a decade and a day later. The teams were tied 17-

17 in overtime when Eagles place-kicker Luis Zendejas lined up for a 31-yard field goal. Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor blocked it, but Eagles defensive end Clyde Simmons recovered it and ran it in for a game-winning TD.

I witnessed Miracle at the New Meadowlands on December 19, 2010. The Giants led 31-10 with eight minutes left. The Eagles ralled to tie it at 31-31 when DeSean Jackson dropped back to field a punt from Matt Dodge. Jackson bobbled the kick, then grabbed it and sprinted up the right side - passing shocked Giants coach Tom Coughlin in the process - for a 65-yard TD on the final play to give the Eagles a 38-31 win.

Saturday's game marks the fifth time they've met in the playoffs since 1981, with each team winning twice.

Their most recent postseason game came in 2008 Divisional Round. The Eagles entered the game as a wildcard and upset the top-seeded Giants 23-11 to reach the NFC Championship game - they lost at Arizona - for the fifth time in eight seasons.

The Giants could finally get revenge on Saturday. They are coming off an impressive, 31-24 win at Minnesota behind first-year coach Brian Daboll, quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley. Meanwhile, the Eagles have been struggling lately with injuries to tackle Lane Johnson and quarterback Jalen Hurts. Both are expected to play Saturday, but it remains to be seen if Johnson will be able to handle playing with a torn adductor muscle.

"I'll make it work," Johnson told NBC Sports Philadelphia.

Hurts sat out two games with a sprained right shoulder and was less than impressive in a 22-16, Week 18 win over a Giants squad that played its junior varsity squad. He was much better in their first meeting this season. He threw for 217 yards and two TDs and ran for one in a 48-22 romp. Additionally, running back Miles Sanders ran for a career-high 144 yards.

Playing at the Linc is a big advantage for the Birds. They have won nine straight there against the Giants and are 24-6 against them overall in the last 30 games.

I think the game will be extremely close, with Eagles kicker Jake Elliott

winning it with a late field goal.

That means Cirrinicione can stay put while Rochford will have to drink some Crown Royal.

It's a win-win for me.

I'll be enjoying tequila Saturday night regardless of the outcome.

Speaking of the playoffs, former Eagles coach Doug Pederson continued his amazing turnaround with the Jaguars with a thrilling, 31-30 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in the AFC wildcard round last Saturday night.

The Jaguars looked cooked when the Chargers took a 27-0 lead and led 27-7 at halftime. Jags quarterback Trevor Lawrence had thrown four interceptions and was struggling.

Pederson urged the team at halftime to stay focused and maintain its composure. The result was an incredible rally that ranks as one of the best comebacks in NFL playoff history.

"What we talked about at halftime of just hanging together and taking one play at a time," Pederson told his team after the game. "I'm proud of you because have faith in yourself and you have faith in each other. you keep encouraging each other like we talk about all the time. you believe. Belief is about understanding that you can get it done and then it gets done. That's what faith is about."

The Eagles became Super Bowl champions in 2017 because of that approach.

Backup quarterback Nick Foles was the hero of their 41-33 victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl LII, but it was Pederson who deserved the lion's share of the credit for their postseason run. Now he deserves the Jaguars' share of the credit.

David is a nationally recognized sports columnist who has covered Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his own Facebook page, Dave Weinberg Extra Points. He can also be heard on 97.3 ESPN as part of Weinberg Wednesday's with Josh Hennig and on Newstalk 1400 and 92.3 WOND on Monday's and Thursday's as part of Off the Press with Scott Cronick.

David who is a member of the Atlantic City Boxing, New Jersey Boxing, and New Jersey MMA Halls of Fame, is a Cape May native who spends his spare time on the golf course, riding his SUP in the Cape May Harbor, sitting on the beach with his wife, Karen, and playing with his three grandsons Hampton (6), Graham (4) and Nixon (1). Send comments to weinbergd419@ comcast.net.

Local fisherman catches international recognition

By Krystle J Bailey

Mark Barbera of Egg Harbor Township recently became the 181st member of a prestigious club of fishermen after catching his ninth billfish off the coast of Miami. A CPA by trade, Barbera caught his first billfish, an Atlantic Blue Marlin, in August 1996. The dedicated family man spent the next 26 years growing his CPA business and raising his three sons, all while using vacation time to dabble in sport fishing.

In 2007, Barbera went on to catch a White Marlin, followed by a Black Marlin in the same year while traveling in Mexico. As he continued to catch and release, checking one billfish after another off his list, the EHT local decided that he would pursue the IGFA Royal Billfish Slam Club. This highly regarded club of international anglers (those who fish

with a rod and line) has less than 200 members worldwide, including Mark Barbera.

The International Game Fish Association, founded in 1939, is a non-profit organization that recognizes the outstanding achievements of anglers while promoting responsible, ethical angling practices and the conservation of game fish.

The IGFA maintains the World Records for all species of game fish. Members of the association can join these ranks and be recognized as an IGFA World Record holder by following a specific set of rules laid out by the association. These rules are in place to ensure ethical angling and conservation of sea life. The very specific guidelines include action steps that must be taken before, during, and after the catch.

Some of these guidelines include not touching the fish while it is on the line, photographic evidence, witness accounts, manual reeling of the fish, and several others. In accordance with these rules, Barbera spent over an hour reeling in the 60-pound swordfish that would ultimately solidify his ranks in the IGFA Billfish Royal Slam Club. From 1,700 feet deep and fighting the currents, Barbera explains that not losing the fish on the way up was the biggest challenge.

From the first Atlantic Blue Marlin to the final Swordfish caught in 2022, Barbera has traveled to Mexico, Miami, Hawaii, and Costa Rica in pursuit of rest, relaxation, and billfish. Covid put a different spin on things, as certain fish can only be found in specific areas of the world. The spearfish that Barbera caught in 2021, for example, congregate in areas such as the Florida Keys, Hawaii, Japan, and Bali. So, when Mark’s trip to Cona, Hawaii, was delayed due to Covid, the road to the Slam Club was postponed as well.

Ultimately, after 26 years since his first catch, Barbera was officially inducted into the IGFA Billfish Royal Slam Club in December 2022.

Looking forward, Barbera is anticipating his plans for early retirement, complete with travel, more fishing, and time with his family. He continues to offer CPA services out of his practice, Barbera and Company CPAs, LLC, and recently launched a blog at www.markbarbera.com.

The blog chronicles his traveling journeys while also providing tips and information about taxes, financial planning, and early retirement. Mark encourages anyone interested in game fishing to give it a shot. Local ports in Cape May and Wildwood Crest offer offshore fishing to ease into the ocean.

“ you don’t have to be a professional,” shares Mark Barbera. “It’s a great thing to add to your bucket list, and maybe you’ll fall in love with it.”

Keep up with Mark’s journey on Instagram @markandjosette.

Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet.

Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5

Eat more black beans

Transfer to a crock pot.

Add the beans, tomatoes and tomato juice. Then, add 4 cups of water. Alternatively, add broth or stock instead. Also, throw in bay leaves, cumin, thyme, and cayenne. Season with salt and black pepper to preference.

Nu trition

By Nancy Adler

Black beans are loaded with protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. They are a superfood that can reduce inflammation, fend off chronic diseases, help you to reach a healthy weight and improve overall gut health.

Dietary guidelines recommend eating 3 cups of legumes or beans each week. Eating just a half cup of beans each day will help meet your health goals.

Canned black beans are versatile ingredients that you can use to boost the nutrient content of many dishes. They are a plant-based source of protein and fiber. Be sure to rinse canned beans off well to reduce the amounts of sodium. According to the MyPlate guideline, black beans are also rich in soluble fiber.

Beans provide glucose, which fuels the brain. Glucose levels are closely linked with brain functions, such as thinking, memory and learning. Please enjoy my recipe in my cookbook, “Nancy Recipes for Life,” available at the Linwood office location and Capellas Oil and Vinegar Store in Ocean City.

Black Bean Soup

Ingredients:

● 1 tablespoon of olive oil

● 1 small onion, chopped

● 1 medium carrot, chopped

● 1/2 cup of green pepper, chopped

● 1 garlic clove, minced

● 3 cups of cooked black beans

● 1 can of tomatoes, diced and undrained

● 2 bay leaves

● 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

● 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

● 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper

● 4 cups of water

● Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth instead of water (optional)

● Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Sauté onion, bell pepper and garlic in olive oil while preparing the vegetables.

To thicken, purée at least 2 cups of the soup solids and return to the cooker.

Serve hot. This recipe serves 6.

Nancy Adler is a certified nutritionist and practitioner in Linwood. Her office is located in Cornerstone Commerce Center, 1201 New Rd. Learn about her practice at ww.nancyadlernutrition.com (609)653-4900. Nancy is the Recipient of the Best of The Press 2020, 2021, and 2022 Gold Award. You may listen to Nancy every Saturday at 11 am Nancy Adler Nutrition LIVE! NewsTalk 1400 WOND and 92.3 the station is fm

Remembering our feathered friends in winter

Le t It Grow

By Tammy Thornton

Those of us living near the Atlantic Coast in South Jersey find ourselves along an important migratory route for birds. However, not all of our feathered friends choose to leave the area, but instead tough out the cold winters like the rest of us yearround “locals”. But winter weather can bring challenges for these little creatures. Offering them birdseed throughout this season will provide these year-round residents with extra sustenance in the winter months.

This time of year, a variety of songbirds can be found in South Jersey. Chickadees, blue jays, cardinals, woodpeckers, tufted titmice, nuthatches, robins, sparrows, and finches are among the many different kinds of birds that don’t migrate. you can attract them to your own backyard with various types of birdseed.

Black-oiled sunflower seeds are popular with a wide variety of song birds. These types of sunflower seeds are high in oil, protein, and fat, providing energy that birds need in the winter months. The shells of black-oiled sunflower seeds are thin, making them easy for birds to crack open.

Our Shore Local area hosts a few different types of woodpeckers such as the red-bellied woodpecker, downy woodpecker, hairy woodpecker, and Northern flicker. If you enjoy birdwatching, you’ll love seeing these different types of woodpeckers visiting your feeders. They can’t resist peanuts. Use a quality bird seed mix containing nuts, and you will soon see these hammerheads visiting your backyard. you can also offer whole peanuts, but avoid salted or roasted nuts. Woodpeckers and other birds also enjoy suet, which is high in fat, giving them energy. For a few dollars, you can buy a metal suet holder, made specifically for square suet cakes. you may want to try your hand at making your own suet. This is a good project

for winter since you won’t have to worry about homemade suet melting, as it would on a hot day in the summer. In addition to woodpeckers, suet will attract cardinals, chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches.

Unfortunately, squirrels also enjoy sunflowers, peanuts, and suet. Squirrels can decimate your suet cake in minutes, spill your bird seed all over the ground, and chew through your bird feeder in the process. Saving some of your seed from squirrels requires mental gymnastics and loads of patience. Strategically

hanging your feeders, using squirrel baffles and squirrel “resistant” bird feeders, and employing the services of a large dog are all ways you can attempt to salvage some of your birdseed. For an easier and less maddening solution, simply use a different type of bird seed. Safflower seeds will attract cardinals, titmice, chickadees, finches, blue jays, and nuthatches. However, squirrels don’t like safflower. When I’m at my wits’ end with squirrels, I smugly fill my feeders with these white seeds and gloat as the squirrels pass them by.

Squirrels also have zero desire to eat Nyjer seeds. These tiny, black, thistle-like seeds are a favorite of our New Jersey state bird, the American goldfinch. Though goldfinches may leave their homes in a nomadic search for food in the fall, plenty of goldfinches are present in South Jersey during the winter months. you just might not recognize them in their drab winter coats. The vibrant yellow and black spring and summer wardrobe has been exchanged for less noticeable plumage. When offer-

ing Nyjer seed to finches and other birds, be sure to offer fresh seed and change it frequently since goldfinches are finicky about their Nyjer. It’s also prone to mold. Since the seeds are so small, you will need a special type of feeder. But inexpensive ones can be found, often in pre-filled plastic feeders or pre-filled “socks”.

Whichever type of birdseed you choose to offer your feathered-friends, be sure to keep your feeders clean, and change out any unused seed frequently, to avoid the growth of bacteria. Provide birds with a water source such as a bird bath, making sure fresh water is added when everything else has

frozen. Avoid bird seed mixes that contain a lot of filler, such as milo and millet. Though these bird seed mixes will be cheaper, you get what you pay for. Most of the songbirds that I’m trying to attract to my yard won’t eat these filler seeds, so they would be wasted. Also, the tiny seeds spill out through the holes of typical bird feeders, leading to further mess and waste. Personally, I prefer a quality birdseed that has a fruit and nut mix and also contains black-oil sunflower and safflower seeds.

By providing birdseed in the winter, you may also encourage these same birds to choose your backyard to nest in the spring. What a delight of nature to find a nest of eggs and enjoy the hope of baby birds in the spring.

We would love to hear about your winter gardens and bird-watching experiences. Kindly send your comments, pictures, 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.

Don’t Give Up: The Stan Adams Jr. Story

By Krystle J Bailey

Don’t Give Up: The Stan Adams Jr. Story is a loving, heart-felt memoir written by Karyn Adams of Galloway, NJ. The 2022 book chronicles the journey of 22-yearold Stan Adams, who leads a full and abundant life while living with special needs.

Karyn first noticed that something wasn’t quite right with Stan at the age of two. It wasn’t until Stan turned 12 years old that he was officially diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder NOS - a form of autism. Stan’s brother Stephon also lives with special needs, so Karyn has dedicated her life to providing her sons with the resources, tools, and support they need to live a full life. During his early years, prior to his diagnosis, Stan participated in karate, baseball, and other activities.

Five years ago, when Karyn discovered a water safety program offered by Faces 4 Autism, she couldn’t have anticipated that Stan was about to go on an exciting journey that would lead to standing ovations.

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children with au -

tism, so Karyn knew it was imperative that Stan learned to swim. What she didn’t know was the excitement that would follow.

After hearing about the program, Karyn immediately reached out to one of the coaches at Brigantine Aquatic Center. Stan and Stephon were approved for swimming lessons, and within six months, both of them were avid swimmers. Stan took a particular liking to the pool and swimming, which caught the attention of the Absegami Highschool Swim Team coach, Jim Winkler.

When Winkler approached Karyn about Stan joining the swim team, she was hesitant to say yes. She was concerned about how he would be treated by the other kids and how well he’d be able to keep up. With a deep belief in her son and some reassurance from the coach, Stan was soon an official swimmer on the Absegami swim team.

Stan began attending regular practices, making adjustments where necessary to accommodate his needs. On a fateful afternoon in January 2018, Stan took center stage at his first swim meet against Ocean City High School. His ADA therapists and counselors, along with his family,

friends, and supporters gathered for Stan’s meet.

As he took to the water, the room erupted with applause and celebration. When he completed his race, Stan didn’t quite understand the enormity of what had just occurred. However, those in attendance knew this was a defining moment for Stan and other children living with autism.

The Brigantine Aquatic Center has since started a Special Olympics

swimming program, “Stanley’s Special Friends Swim Team,” on which Stan served as the captain. Stan, along with his brother Stephon and the rest of the team, went on to compete at the Special Olympics on a state level.

Stan was nominated for the Community Leader Award through Faces 4 Autism as well as the Donald J Sykes Award and prom king at Absegami High School. Since Stan’s participation on the team, several more teenagers with special needs have joined the Absegami Swim Team.

Don’t Give Up tells these stories, including the trials and triumphs that Stan powered through regardless of the circumstances. Told by his mother, Karyn Adams, the story includes their struggle to find the right doctors, challenges through elementary school, and a list of resources for other parents of special needs children.

Stan’s life story is still unfolding, as he is now an adult working part-time. When he’s not working, you can find him still in the pool, playing golf, or at the gym with his brother, Stephon, and their trainer at W.O.L.F. Fitness in Brigantine.

Don’t Give Up: The Stan Adams Jr. Story can be found on Amazon.

Exploring the “grape” unknown: Italy

By David Setley

It’s a new year and, for many of us, a time when we seek new opportunities. Among my favorite tasks in my role at Passion Vines is to explore new grape varietals and wines to expand the choices available to our consumers. Globally, there are over 10,000 grapes used in wine production. Most people are only familiar with the so-called “noble grapes:” Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Syrah, Grenache, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. There are so many more to discover! Throughout the year, I plan to periodically write about the grapes unknown.

According to worldatlas.com, Italy produces almost 4.8 million tons of wine, and consumes about 45 quarts of wine per person annually. The country exports more than $7.5 billion of wine per year. Italy knows wine! The most famous wine grape in Italy is Sangiovese, the grape

used to produce Chianti. Additionally, Sangiovese is the primary grape in many Toscana wines, and is the basis of Montepulciano and Brunello wines. It is not surprising that most are familiar with this classic, noble grape. But there are other great Italian reds to explore. Allow me to introduce a few of the grapes unknown from Italy: the Nebbiolo, Covina, Aglianico, and Pecorino grapes.

Barolo, known as “the king of wines and the wine of kings,” is an exquisite Italian red made with the Nebbiolo grape. Barolos are often in the pricier range, but there are other Nebbiolo wines that are quite reasonable and have many of the same flavor characteristics of Barolo. The Langhe region of Piedmont is known for producing the best Nebbiolo wines, and the Fratelli Oddero Nebbiolo Lange 2019 is a great example. The aroma has notes of strawberries and violets while the palate is fruity, but dry, with rich, well-structured tannins and an earthy-leathery finish. If you haven’t tried Nebbiolo, now is the time to explore this Italian grape.

Another excellent red grape you may have experienced is Corvina, produced in the Valpolicella region of Italy. Amarone is the most famous, albeit relatively expensive, wine produced from the Corvina grape. However, there are other, very reasonably priced examples of this

awesome grape. One of my favorites is the Santi-Solane Valpolicella Ripasso. Ripasso wines utilize the “appassimento process,” which dries the grapes after harvesting to intensify the flavors and then rehydrates them for fermentation. This process has been utilized in the Valpolicella region since Roman times. The same process is utilized for producing Amarone, giving Ripasso wine the nickname: “Baby Amarone.” The result is a full-bodied, complex, dry red wine with plenty of smooth tannins and the flavors of dark fruit and cassis with notes of coffee, leather, and tobacco leaves.

The primary grape grown in the Campania region of southern Italy is likely another grape unknown to most. Aglianico is a black grape that has been called the Barolo of the South. This grape produces a highly refined, dark ruby-red wine with the flavors of blackberries, black cherries, dark chocolate, and coffee. While full-bodied, it is very smooth and has a wonderful minerality that pairs well with grilled red meats and chicken. A great, yet reasonably priced, example of this wine is the Rocca Del Dragone Aglianico 2020.

When it comes to Italian white wines, most everyone knows Pinot Grigio and Prosecco. How about Pecorino? And no, I don’t mean Romano cheese. Pecorino wine grapes are primarily produced in

the Marche and Abruzzo regions of Italy. More intense and complex than Pinot Grigio, the aroma of Pecorino wines offers herbal notes of thyme, mint and anise and a well-rounded flavor with hints of white peaches and plenty of minerality. The Pehhcora Pecorino 2019 from Terre Di Chieti is an excellent example of this varietal. Next time you are grilling fish or preparing a charcutterie platter, give this one a try.

To quote the great poet, Robert Frost, “two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” There is something exciting about exploring new things, and wine is no exception!

I hope you will venture into the grape unknown on your next visit to the wine store. Don’t worry, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay aren’t going anywhere. Until our next adventure, Happy Wining! As always, your questions and comments are greatly appreciated. Contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com.

David Setley is enjoying his retirement from higher education as a wine educator and certified sommelier at Passion Vines in Somers Point, New Jersey.

A Senior’s Observations, Opinions and Rantings For the love of convenience stores

By Charles P. Eberson Se nior Moments

Iconsider my wife and I fairly well traveled. We’ve been to Europe as well as visiting most of the states in the U.S. numerous times. We have often been surprised by events on the road as well as learning a few lessons, i.e. don’t pass up a clean restroom and do not send a steak back to a North Dakota truck stop diner.

During numerous drives down to Florida, we have stopped at the turisto trap, South of the Border in South Carolina and came away quite impressed at the effort taken to give the traveler a unique and memorable Mexican experience. While traveling through North Dakota, we encountered a similar billboard assault on our senses as the South of Border

signs on I-95 but these signs were for Wall Drug. Our curiosity was piqued so we decided to see what the hype was all about. Wall Drug is a cowboy themed emporium featuring a wide variety of western themed attractions. you would think that not much would give us pause at this point in our somewhat advanced years. Au contraire mes amis.

On a recent drive on the outskirts of Jacksonville, Florida, I kept passing a parking lot packed with vehicles but while trying to keep my eyes on the road could not determine what the attraction was until finally, I was stopped at a light. It was a roadside convenience store called Buc-ee’s. The Google description of Buc-ee’s characterized it as a Texas-size convenience store with 120 gas pumps. Bon Appetit called it “the best rest stop in the country, raving about its brisket tacos and Beaver Nuggets, a caramel-coated corn snack.” Bucees’s is also known for the cleanest restrooms in the country. With less than a quarter of a tank of fuel in the tank and three hungry grandchildren, I saw this as an opportunity to have a go at the Buc-ee’s experience.

First of all, even with 120 gas pumps I had to snake around the entire bank of pumps a couple times until I found a vacant pump. My wife took the grandchildren inside to get them some snacks. After filling up the vehicle, I parked and walked into the store. I was not prepared for what I saw.

The nearly 53,000 square foot store was packed with merchandise of every description from dog paraphernalia, clothing, snacks, a wall of every imaginative meat jerky you can think of, a bakery, a plethora of various chips, sodas and candies. Then I heard it. A chorus of voices yelling out, “HEyyyyy, CHOPPED BRISKET ON THE BOARD.” I was drawn over to the kitchen arena in the center of the store where a young man with the red Buc-ee’s shirt and a cowboy hat was wielding a huge, curved rocking knife on a cutting board covered with hot brisket. He was surrounded by similarly dressed employees repeating the same refrain as in some sort of tribal ritual.

When we finally were all back in the car, I asked the grandchildren what they thought of Buc-ee’s. Our 7 year old granddaughter asked if the

people were from another country. The 9 year old grandson just said, “scary.” My wife just sat in silence shaking her head trying to make sense of what she experienced. My thoughts drifted back to the local WaWa stores we frequent in the Downbeach towns of Margate and Ventnor. Just the simple act of casually pouring one’s own coffee, fixing it just the way I like it and grabbing a warm breakfast sandwich seemed like such a simple pleasure.

Pleasantries among like-minded locals are often exchanged before getting in the car for the first sip and bite of my morning’s bounty. But here at Buc-ee’s, I unwrapped my warm brisket sandwich, took a big bite savoring the tender meat and vinegary barbeque sauce. Perhaps, I will have to revisit Buc-ee’s again…alone.

Charles Eberson has been in the newspaper business for over 25 years. He has worked as a writer, advertising executive, circulation manager and photographer. His photography can be viewed at charles-eberson. fineartamerica.com

Tu

Remembering Paul Adrian Glaser, musician and WLFR mainstay

Stockton State College with a focus on community organizing/political science. Most recently he was the assistant general manager at WLFR, training and mentoring student DJs for the station.

manager of WLFR at one point in the 1980s. In the past 15 years, he resumed his guiding role as a manager at the station (content director and jazz music director).

ne In, Turn On

By Doug Deutsch

Sitting down to write a tribute to Paul Adrian Glaser, late musician and WLRF stalwart, spoke to some people who knew him well.

Glaser, along with Bob Portella, was one of the first on-air personalities when WLFR 91.7 FM (Lake Fred Radio) launched back in 1984, debuting his show “Radio Anarchy,” in addition to his other shows through the years: “This Is Pop,” “Black Plastic,” “Alpha Waves,” and “The Chicken Bone Beach Hour.”

Glaser was also the station’s jazz music director and served as WLFR’s station manager at various times, becoming one of the major forces behind the scenes there. He attended

Glaser passed unexpectedly on Sept. 12. The Anchor Rock Club in Atlantic City will hold a celebration of life for Paul Adrian Glaser 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28.

“(Paul) should’ve been a household name,” said Adam Berardo, (aka 1adam12) a longtime band mate of Glaser’s in Noise Museum, in which Paul played bass and was co-lead vocalist.

“I never met a musician who could do what he did,” Berardo said. “Paul was a rock star’s rock star. He was kind, generous, modest, humble and had a high level of humility, always in control of his ego. He was a sensitive man with very high intellect. I will cherish all of my memories and his musings.”

“Paul Glaser was the heart, soul and ears of WLFR since the very beginning (1984).” said Bob Portella. “He had been a student general

“For me, having grown up in the same town (Ventnor) as Paul (although we didn't actually meet until we both attended Stockton in the 1980s), he was the older brother I never had: a great friend, a sounding board, a mentor and a human BS detector, all in one,” Portella said. “Paul always took time to sit down with me and discuss music, arts, film, politics, radio, anything. He was always super supportive and added constructive criticism when necessary.

“His calm demeanor sometimes hid the huge passion he had for music. It's ridiculously unfair that he was taken from all of us at a time when we needed him most; but those of us who knew Paul were lucky to have had him in our lives.”

“(Paul) created the ‘Malcolm Minute,’ where he gave me a minute on the air,” recalls local rock musician Malcolm Tent. “He was the most eclectic DJ on the station, with the most well-rounded, varied taste.”

It was Paul that coerced Tent into writing “Hell A Far,” a loving ode to the station that Tent always gets a great response for when he performs it live.

“Paul was the embodiment of DIy and he was the ultimate champion of the underground,” said Mike Kelly, who released Woozlebug’s “Mullicana” on his Morning Frost Recordings Label in 1997. “He never gave up his enthusiasm and belief in real music and art.”

Local Band of the Week: Red, The Band has two albums out, and is almost finished a third.

“If you could stop by our page and hit the Like button for us we’d really appreciate that,” said Bob Kimmel, Red's drummer who’s also a recording engineer and producer.

Red is a quintet that plays a mix of classic rock and originals. The band performs at the Rush Lounge in the Golden Nugget 7-11 p.m. every Monday night with no cover.

In June they will continue the Monday night shows but move it outside to their outdoor venue called The Deck. Check out Red’s second album, “Broken Earth,” on iTunes here:music here:

https://music.apple.com/us/album/broken-earth/512721453

Listen to their first album from 2002, “Nothing Means Anything,” here:

https://music.apple.com/ us/album/nothing-means-anything/4410314

And on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Redsongs-317044248318305/

Coming Soon: Interviews with Jon Spencer and the HIT makers (Anchor Rock Club, Feb. 3); musician and radio personality Doreen Taylor; musician Natalie Farrell, who advanced to the second round of Bamboozle’s Break Contest; and two of the true female greats in the blues, vocalist Shemekia Copeland and guitarist Ana Popovic, who will perform at Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton March 3 and May 10, respectively. See the full full Lizzie Rose concert calendar here: https://www.lizzierosemusic.com/ concerts-c1e2q

Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail. com and www.facebook.com/ dougdeutschpublicity.

529 College Savings Plan to Roth IRA Rollovers

What the SECURE Act 2.0 means to you

are many enhancements to the original SECURE Act, and in this issue I thought I would summarize what they mean for you and your money.

By Eric Reich

There has been a lot of hype lately surrounding a bill passed just before Christmas, and for good reason. It was a gift for us all. There

I know I should save the best for last, but sometimes you want dessert before dinner. This provision is huge for many investors and officially eliminates the biggest objection people have to investing in a 529 plan, which is “what do I do if my kid doesn’t use all the money for college?” Prior to this change, distributions from a 529 plan that weren’t used for a qualified higher education expense

were assessed a 10% penalty on the interest earned. This should in no way be a deterrent for almost anyone to invest into a 529 plan because the argument is still very easy to make that you would still come out ahead even with the potential penalty, but now it’s a no-brainer. you can now roll over unused 529 plan funds into your Roth IRA. This allows you to continue to build tax deferred growth and typically tax free distributions. This is the best tax gift for investors in a very long time.

Speaking of Roth IRAs, you can now make Roth contributions to a SEP or SIMPLE Plan. This was previously not allowed and opens up even more opportunities for tax deferred growth and typically tax-free distributions. If you’re over age 50 you can make “catch up” contributions to both of these plans. Now, all catch up contributions must be to a Roth account starting in 2024. Employer contributions to 401(k) plans were previously required to be into a traditional account even if all of your contributions went into a Roth. Effective immediately, those employer matches can also be made to a Roth.

Catch up contributions will index for inflation beginning in 2024 but will also index further for those ages 60-63.

There are also new exceptions to the 10% penalty (taxes as still assessed) to early distributions as well. These include distributions for domestic abuse, terminal illness, and disaster relief.

SIMPLE IRA plans will allow employees to defer even more of their income starting next year and employee matches will be allowed to increase as well.

Missed required minimum distribution (RMD) penalties have always seemed excessively harsh at 50% of the amount of the RMD missed. Those penalties have now been reduced to 25%, and better yet, if you correct your mistake quickly it can be further reduced down to only 10%.

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are a great way to give to charity if you are over age 70 and a half. The law allows you

to gift up to $100,000 and it counts against your RMD. Starting in 2024 that number will index with inflation and will also be expanded to include a one time additional $50,000 contribution to a charitable remainder trust.

RMD age increase will immediately be raised to age 73 and will ultimately rise to age 75 over the next 10 years.

These changes add up to a lot of great choices for investors moving forward. Just be mindful of when each different rule goes into effect as they are not all available immediately. Talk to your tax advisor for further guidance.

Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.

Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations. A lifelong resident of Cape May County, Eric resides in Seaville, NJ with his wife Chrissy and their sons ,CJ and Cooper, and daughter Riley.

Going Places with Dina Guzzardo

Three Saturday Night Live alumni are set to perform in Atlantic City. Critically-acclaimed comedians Chris Rock, David Spade, and Sarah Silverman will be performing the first weekend of February.

Chris Rock is a stand-up comedian, actor, and filmmaker. Depending on your age, you may recognize him from various roles. He has won three Grammy Awards and four Primetime Emmy Awards. Rock also was ranked number 5 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 50 Best Stand-Up Comics of All Time. you may recognize him from his semi-autobiographical sitcom, Everybody Hates Chris, or his earlier talk show, The Chris Rock Show, which aired from 1997-2000. He has also been in some immensely popular movies, such as the Grown Ups franchise, The Longest yard, and as the voice of Marty the Zebra in the Madagascar films. He was also part of one of the most shocking moments in TV history when he hosted the Academy

‘Saturday Night Live’ alumni to perform in Atlantic City

Awards in 2022 (a quick google search will tell you what I am talking about). Rock is, however, a stand-up comic by trade. He was discovered and mentored by Eddie Murphy back in the 80s. He then went on to star in Saturday Night Live, which catapulted the comedian into international stardom and was the beginning of an illustrious career. Rock is known for his jokes about family, politics, romance, music, and race relations in the United States. He also draws much of his material from past experiences during his childhood and early teenage years (which was the premise for his TV show). Rock will be performing at Borgata (1 Borgata Way) on Feb. 3 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $184.66, with preferred seating starting at $452.41. Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours now by going to: https://borgata.mgmresorts.com.

David Spade is another recognizable face on our television screens. Spade got his big break after starring on Saturday Night Live from 1990 to 1996. He went on to star in several comedy films, such as Tommy Boy and Black Sheep, as well as providing the voice for the lead in The Emperor’s New Groove in 2000. He was also one of the four main

cast members of the Grown Ups franchise, alongside Rock, and had leading roles in TV shows, including Rules of Engagement and the final seasons of 8 Simple Rules. He has been consistently doing films for the past decade. Spade is known for his sarcastic and self-deprecating style, often poking fun at his small stature. He will be performing at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (1000 Boardwalk) on Feb. 4 at 8 p.m. to an almost sold-out crowd. However, tickets are still available starting at $59 and can be purchased here: https://www. hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.

The final SNL alumnus coming to Atlantic City is Sarah Silverman, who was on the show between 1993 and 1994. She is known for her satirical and deadpan style of comedy, which has seen her nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her self-titled tv show, The Sarah Silverman Program, which ran from 2007 until 2010. She has won two Primetime Emmy Awards, one for her work on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and one for Sarah Silverman: We Are Miracles. Silverman is also an acclaimed writer, writing material for many of the most popular TV shows in the USA, including

SNL. She has appeared in some huge movies, including School of Rock, as the bitter girlfriend of Jack Black’s roommate; A Million Ways to Die in the West, alongside Seth McFarlane of Family Guy; and the Wreck it Ralph franchise as a voice actor. Silverman is set to perform at Ocean Casino and Resort (500 Boardwalk) on Feb. 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at only $24 and can be purchased from https://www.theoceanac.com.

The beginning of February is set to be a weekend of jokes in AC. With three of the most recognized faces of comedy gracing our beloved city, we will be hearing roars of laughter all weekend.

Dina Guzzardo is the Owner and Creative Director of Dina Productions Group. Dina Productions Group is an innovative event design and execution company that designs and executes all types of corporate and private parties and events. Obsessing over every detail is the reason why DPG is one of the most sought out event production companies in our area. For more information visit www. dinaproductionsgroup.com

The benefits of elderberry syrup

alternative method that someone is trying to sell me? In my research I found so much more than I thought I would.

By Lela McAferty

Are you a fan of the doctor, or do you prefer more natural, do-it-yourself remedies? Most of us fall somewhere in the middle, in the category of, “If I can help myself feel better I will, but when I can’t I go to the doctor.”

Over the past few years more and more attention is being given to preventative measures and scientifically proven home remedies, more so during the winter season and especially, post COVID-19. In comes our subject at hand, elderberry syrup.

As a mother of two young children, I am looking for all ways to keep sickness at bay and our lives healthy and harmonious. When sickness is looming, I am researching.

This winter season, I decided to get to the bottom of the story behind elderberry syrup. Is it a real cure? Is it scientifically proven? Or is it another

Elderberries have been used for their medicinal properties for thousands of years. Officially named the black elder or Sambucus nigra, the elderberry plant grows spontaneously in nature.

More recent studies are proving over and over again that the elderberry plant provides many vital resources for fighting sickness. Some of these properties include phenols, lectins, flavanols and vitamins and minerals like beta-carotene, magnesium, potassium, biotin, calcium and Vitamin C.

In other words, through these organic compounds, the elderberry constitutes antiviral, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antidepressant properties and immune-boosting characteristics according to the 2022 study by Monacu and Amariei.

Another study listed in the Journal of International Medical Research shows that elderberry syrup has been proven to limit the duration of influenza by up to four days on average as compared to those who did not consume elderberry syrup.

Am I touting this syrup is a cure all? Absolutely not. I am merely stating sci -

entific research has proven many times over that it is an aide in protecting us against everyday viruses and germs.

Where does this amazing berry come from and how does one find elderberry syrup? Elderberries grow on several different continents, the main locations being Europe, Asia, North Africa and America.

Elderberries, the twigs, branches and leaves must be cooked before they are consumed, otherwise if eaten raw gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting or diarrhea may occur.

It is easy and cost-effective to make elderberry syrup in your own home. It’s even easier to drop into your local drugstore, although your wallet might not feel that way.

Many recipes are available on the web, all involving portions of fresh or dried elderberries and plant components to a portion of water and spices.

Some recipes also call for honey or natural thickeners such as arrowroot powder. While on the subject of arrowroot powder, it is worth mentioning a cooking tip that it is a wonderful substitute for cornstarch as well.

Who can take elderberry syrup and how much constitutes a serving? As always, one should consult their physician, pediatrician or dietician if

unsure about making changes to their nutritional intake. If the recipe contains honey, it is not recommended that children under 2 consume honey.

The suggested dose for elderberry syrup for immune boosting and prevention for children is one half to one teaspoon per day, and for adults, one tablespoon per day. If you become sick, continue taking the recommended dose, but increase the frequency from once per day to every two to three hours.

With all the benefits the elderberry provides, it’s easy to see why elderberry syrup has risen in popularity in recent years and become a staple in many people’s daily diets.

Contact a health or nutrition professional before taking anything for medicinal purposes.

Lela McAferty is currently pursuing her master’s degree in public health nutrition. She is a nutrition and CrossFit coach at CrossFit OTG and owner of Armor Nutrition. She is a Coastie wife and mother of two. Connect with Lela on Instagram @armornutrition or email lelamcaferty@gmail.com.

Je ff's Journal

By Jeff Whitaker

If you read my column on a regular basis you know I touch a lot on being intentional in our lives. If you happened to catch the last “edition” you know I wrote about it again as we prepared for a new year.

Even though the upheaval of the last three years has settled down, to a large extent there is still uncertainty and anxiousness around us.

There seems to be a constant state of waiting and wondering for too many of us. But having acknowledged that, let’s not dwell on the things we can’t change, but rather on things we can. Let’s not constantly think about what we can’t achieve, but what we can. I look around me and see so many people in need, so many issues that need to be addressed and problems that need to be solved. It can be overwhelming to say the least.

So, it’s a good time to be reminded that with so much of our world seemingly out of our control, let’s focus on the one thing that we can control; ourselves. you want to see change? you want to make an impact? Work on yourself first. If you are married, you are responsible to your spouse and if you have children you are responsible to your children. On the job, you are responsible to your boss, but

the number one person you are responsible for is yOU! Make no mistake. It takes effort. Ask any leader and if they are honest he or she will tell you that the hardest person in the world to lead is themselves.

So, how do we navigate the whirlwind? It starts with each one of us making a commitment to be the change we want to see. Sounds like a cliche, but it’s much more than that. This month is always the traditional time to set goals and aspirations for the year ahead and even though we are half way through January, it’s not too late. Start with a number one goal of setting yourself on the path to improvement and growth and watch your progress and achievement leak into those around you. My challenge to you and me today is to take some time to really think through how we want this year to look when we look back in December of 2023 There are things all around us that we have little or no control over, but there are so many other things we can control and affect. Start with yOU and watch as things around you begin to change as well.

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

NJ film industry set to flourish with new Netflix production studio

By Steffen Klenk

On December 22, 2022, Netflix announced a landmark deal that will bring new production facilities to the state of New Jersey. The streaming platform announced that it has purchased Fort Monmouth, a former U.S. Army base in Monmouth County, for $850 million. The plan is to transform the facility into a TV and film production facility that will house 12 sound stages, back lots, and auxiliary production spaces.

The once-utilized Army installation covers nearly 1,126 acres of land and was leased by the Army as a training site for officers in the early 1900s. In 1925, the facility was renamed Fort Monmouth and the first permanent building was constructed three years later. During World War II, additional property was purchased to accommodate nearly 20,000 enlisted personnel and over 1,500 officers. The post officially closed on September 15, 2011, with redevelopment plans submitted shortly thereafter.

At Weist-Barron-Ryan Acting Workshops, hardworking talent apply their craft in hopes of breaking it big in the industry. Quinn Showell and

Stefanie Ryan are the faces behind the third generation family owned business, currently based out of Galloway. They described their excitement to the news in an interview earlier this month. “This has been in the process for so long, and we knew that this was going to be a done deal,” Showell says. “I think it just skyrocketed everyone’s excitement.”

This news comes on the heels of a growing film industry throughout the state. The New Jersey Film and Television Commission reports more than half a billion dollars was spent on film and television production in 2021, with over 700 total projects and more than 5,500 jobs created that year. The state’s film tax incentive has allowed productions to apply for an up-to 30 percent credit, and up to 35 percent for films shot in the southern half of the state.

The state’s two-year film tax credit program was extended last year to 2034, allowing more incentive for production houses within the state. Ryan says there has never been a better time for this growing industry. “More of our people are working regularly, a few have left their other jobs to pursue acting full time, because it’s a viable industry now to be able to do that.”

News of the Netflix entry into the Garden State came to fruition as early as July 2021, when word came about a meeting between Netflix executives and Governor Phil Murphy.

Later that year, the video streaming platform announced its intent to bid on the Fort Monmouth property, appraised at the time at $54 million. The Fort Monmouth site would become the second-largest production complex for the streaming giant behind its facilities in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

More production studios are also in the works up and down the state. In May 2022, Lionsgate announced a brand new $125 million TV and film studio to be built in Newark, with up to five soundstages. Lionsgate received “Studio Partner” designation in the state last month. There is also traction throughout South Jersey, with Weekly World News announcing plans to utilize facilities in Vineland. “I think that the state is going to be very surprised over the next couple of years with the amount of studios that are looking to build here, and that have already started building here.” Showell says.

As the industry continues to see much growth in the state, some lo -

cal cities and counties are beginning to take advantage of this growing field, with film offices opened in Atlantic City, as well as Camden and

Gloucester Counties. With a diversified, inclusive film industry, tax credit programs set into place, and new production facilities coming over the next several years, New Jersey is set to lead the way as one of America’s film capitals.

Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.

SHORE FUNNY

My ex-wife still misses me. But her aim is steadily improving. A Spanish magician has a grand magical show and at the end he says he will disappear after counting to three. He starts to count, “Uno, dos…” then he vanished without a tres.

Which country’s capital is the fastest growing? Ireland’s… Every year it’s Dublin.

A group of termites marches into a saloon and ask: “Is the bar tender here?”

Q C V V F D P S S S T H K I F W E E D S I K A P N I O X P D V J T P I F W N F N P E S A G I F S O R C V R R W K S T C C I N L D J H W G X I I O R F E M O V B H N W A V C Z H Q V B L R J Z V G J Q B U H I S V H T M A S O I J E A X N R J T S A N D O Y G E Y M G H Z U E O F W U T M T G X N A G H S H K C H Y U B J Z A B

E S S Z C A O N B Z B Q G C R Y L W X

R X F X H V L N V L H M W J H N N J X

Stage to sell in the winter

Use Natural Elements

Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

Staging your home is crucial any time of the year, but especially during winter, when weather and a slower market tend to get in the way. These staging tips are sure to help put your home at the top of potential buyers’ minds and stand out this season.

Tastefully Decorate

Use the wintery feel of these months to your advantage. Twinkly lights and elegant winter decor can instantly take your home up a notch. A pine cone wreath, seasonal flowers and greenery, and other small landscaping touches could make all of the difference to a potential buyer pulling up to your home.

Making It Welcoming

The great thing about winter is that no matter where you live, it automatically beckons a cozy feeling into your life. Blankets, the possibility of snow, and a warm fire make you that much more excited for the season. Drape a few throw blankets and pillows on your couches and light an unscented candle or two to embrace the toasty winter ambience.

Winter tends to get a bad rap for being dreary, dark, and cold. But there are ways to make the most of these months. Decorating is one way, but you can also bring light into your space by pulling back curtains and opening any blinds. Turn all of the lights up and switch out darker lampshades for lighter colors as well.

Tidy Up

Those wet gloves and muddy shoes lining the entryway won't make the best first impression. Triple clean commonly used areas, especially places where debris from outside tends to get tracked in. Wipe down countertops, dust the trim, and vacuum rugs to freshen up.

When showings are scheduled, place a shoe bin by the entrance and encourage visitors to take off their shoes before coming into your home, especially in inclement weather.

Staging during the winter doesn't have to be a deadend. Instead, liven up your interior with these ideas.

Real estate is alive and well now is the time to buy and or sell. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2023.

With hugs, love and warm regards…

For more real estate information and advice contact, Elisa Jo Eagan, “The Real Estate Godmother,” at 609-703-0432. Learn more at TheRealEstateGodmother.com.

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!"

Strength training for the ‘caloric win’

sessions each week, and progressively add to it. Complete three sessions per week for a solid four weeks and then add a fourth training session per week. Take it up to five per week and you will really start seeing awesome results.

Shore Fit

By Bonnie Dodd-Miller

Tired of sweating all over every piece of cardio equipment at the gym and still getting zero love from the scale?

A one-sided approach isn’t enough. Cardiovascular exercise is important, but it’s only a piece of the balanced fitness diet. I strongly advise more iron, but not in your diet. Pumping iron is where it’s at. you must hit the weights whether it’s dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells or machines.

For the greatest calorie burn, aim for total-body workouts that target your arms, abs, legs, and back, and go for moves that zap several different muscle groups at a time.

Compound exercises are great, such as squats, which call on muscles from the front and back of your legs. For each exercise you do, try to perform three sets of 10 to 12 reps with a weight heavy enough that by your last rep, you can’t force out another one without compromising your form. you’ll get stronger and stronger each week. Log everything to keep track of your strength gains.

Don’t be surprised if one side is stronger than the other. As long as you're making gains, that’s all that matters.

Though cardio burns more calories than strength training, pumping iron slashes more overall. you will burn more calories in the 24 hours afterward from weight lifting than if you had just done cardio.

Strength training alongside a good diet can produce amazing results. The scale may not move a whole lot, but the fat loss will have others thinking that your scale is going way down.

I prefer tracking protein and staying within a caloric range. your body composition can completely change, but you must be diligent in measuring, weighing and tracking your meals.

Pairing that with three to four strength training sessions a week can reduce overall body fat significantly. All that new muscle pays off in the long term by boosting your metabolism. This helps keep you lean and sculpted.

We’ve all heard that the body is made in the kitchen. Now pair the two and a little cardio and you’ll have a body that you can feel good in and age well with.

Begin with three weight-training

Lifting provides a longer term benefit for women since we tend to hold onto fat. This is important before, during, and after menopause as our metabolism changes as we mature. Muscle accounts for about a third of the average woman’s weight, so it has a major effect on a woman’s metabolism.

Our workouts have to keep evolving because what we did years ago may not suit us now.

My all-time favorite quote is: “If you can’t stay motivated, stay consistent. Consistency brings back your motivation.”

We got this, ladies. We have to fight it all the way!

Bonnie Miller is certified fitness instructor at the Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center and Atilis Gym in Galloway. She is a mom of three and resides Somers Point.