SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | February 16, 2023

Free Late February 2023

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

Wave Warrior Boy Surfs 1,000 Straight Days of Waves

Cool Winter Happenings Windmills Stir Up Controversy Sonic Booms Shaking Things Up Indoor Pickleball Lands at Old Mall

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February 16, 2023

3

Every day is a new beginning

down and be present in the moment. Each season brings its own sense of beauty and wonder. While many of us might not love the cold, there is still something to be celebrated about the changing of seasons.

From the Editor It’s too easy to wish your life away, longing for another Friday or for the next season he Eagles gave us a fun run this season! Like many of to pass. There is always someus, I’m still a little bummed thing else to wish for or look about the Super Bowl loss, forward to. I find that when I but for the biggest sports face-off of am too focused on what lies the year, all you can ask for is a great ahead, I miss out on the beaugame, and our favorite team gave us ty of life that’s right in front of me. just that.

Nonetheless, spring fever is ineviWhile we might not be gearing table, especially with mild winters like up for a celebratory parade, rest asthe one we have had. So, how do we sured parades are right around the stay present while feeling the buzz of corner. The weather is warming up, spring circling in the air? and spring is on the horizon. Spring Try incorporating spring activities is a special time down the shore. into your daily life, whether that’s Everything is a little bit brighter, the pulling out your summer clothes early sun stays out a little longer, seasonal or incorporating some pastel colors businesses prepare to open their into your wardrobe. With the recent doors, and we look forward to strolls mild temperatures, get outside and on the boardwalk. prep your garden or start planning As the years pass, the seasons your next outdoor party. Check out seem to fly by faster than they Shore Local gardening column for used to. Life is busy, and work gets tips on how to prepare for the season Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly. in the way. We often forget to slow on page 24.

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Issue 224

Alternatively, you can shift your thinking by leaning into the current season for all that it has to offer. Light a fire pit, take a skiing trip, make a hearty soup, or throw on your favorite sweater. Embrace the last few weeks of winter because soon, we will be wishing for cooler days.

While preparing this edition of Shore Local, I was inspired by the people in our community who follow their passions regardless of the season. Check out our cover story about 12-year-old Carter Doorley from Brigantine, who will surf for the 1,000th day in a row this Saturday. Regardless of the temperatures or conditions,

for nearly three years, Carter has caught a wave. Read about this extraordinary boy on page 8.

The Atlantic County Rowing Association doesn’t slow down for cooler temps either.

They hit the water in all kinds of weather. Read about them on page 26.

Pickleball is all the rage these days. Learn about our area’s first indoor pickleball facility which opened its doors this month on page 20.

March is winter’s home stretch, though it’s not unusual for it to “come in like a lion” with one final blast of cold. If you’re a snow lover or want to make the most of the season, plan your next skiing or snowboarding trip with tips found on page 22.

Thank you for reading this edition of Shore Local. There is always something to celebrate at the Jersey Shore. As each season passes and we look back on the stories we’ve covered over the years, we are excited to be a part of a beautiful four-season community.

Peace & Love, Cindy

Established 2016

Celebrating Life at The Southern NJ Shore Office - (609) 788-4812

Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com Executive Editor - Cindy Christy Fertsch (609) 705-5323 shorelocalcindy@gmail.com Copy Editors - James FitzPatrick, Holly Fertsch Staff Writer - Sarah Fertsch Digital Marketing Director - Marc Berman Web Designer - Holly Martin Contributors –Charles Eberson, Dina Guzzardo, Scott Cronick, Dan Skeldon, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Steffen Klenk, Nancy Adler, Donald B. Kravitz, Joe Massaglia, Fred Miller, Krystle J. Bailey, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Jeff Whitaker, Elisa Jo Eagan, Michael Bray, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich

Cover photo of Carter Doorley by Dawn Doorley

Mo re N e w s , Podcasts at wwFwe.Satures, Video an d horeLocalNews.com

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4

February 16, 2023

A whole lotta shakin’ going on in South Jersey

Weather

By Dan Skeldon

S

now has been scarce to say the least in South Jersey this winter.

Cold has been pretty scant

as well.

But something else is seemingly becoming more common each winter.

And spring. And summer and fall too you could say.

Sure, it isn’t quite meteorological in nature. But certain atmospheric conditions can amplify its impact, rattling even more nerves in the process.

South Jersey has become the unofficial “Sonic Boom Capital” of the East Coast, and perhaps the United States. A mere google search for “sonic boom South Jersey” would certainly support that claim, as dozens of articles come up. Here’s just a few: ● 'Boom' in South Jersey caused by airplane and weather patterns (1/13/2023) - Philadelphia Inquirer ● Mystery of Sonic Booms Heard in South Jersey Solved (1/28/2016) -NBC News ● Did You Hear It? Loud Booms Echo Through South Jersey (1/15/2022) -NBC10 Philadelphia Most recently, Friday, January 13th 2023 was the unlucky day for those with ‘tremophobia’, or fear of earthquakes or other telluric movements.

But these “earthquakes" have been going on for over a decade, perhaps longer. Some will swear they are becoming more frequent, which they could very well be. Of course, there is also a “boom” of social media threads, which help to document how widespread they can be felt, how intense they are, and how frequently they occur.

But before we continue, let’s first dispel the notion that they are actual earthquakes, which are defined as sudden and violent shaking of the ground as a result of movements within the earth’s crust or volcanic action. Of course, volcanic activity is easy to rule out.

But what about the more traditional shaking from shifting plates under the ground? While it’s true that minor earthquakes (under a magnitude 2.0 on the Richter Scale) do occur annually as many as 3-6 times per year in the Garden State, they are often too weak to be felt or reported.

There are two notable exceptions in the last 100 years. ● August 23, 2011: A magnitude 5.8 earthquake with an epicenter in central Virginia was widely felt throughout South Jersey, and there were reports of minor damage. Hurricane Irene struck a few days later. ● September 5, 1944: A magnitude 5.8 earthquake was centered near Massena in Upstate New York and was felt as far south as South Jersey. Ironically, the Great Atlantic Hurricane of September of 1944 struck a few days later.

(Just a coincidence, as there is no connection between quakes and hurricanes.)

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There is one similarity though.

Earthquakes, like hurricanes, never go undetected.The United States Geological Survey has a widespread network of seismographs throughout the country, and any earthquake strong enough to be felt (and even those that aren’t) will never go unmeasured and unreported. As a result, it’s very easy to confirm or deny whether any reported rumblings are seismic in nature and whether or not an earthquake is to blame. And at least in New Jersey, it’s almost always NOT an earthquake.

I say that confidently, but I should also explain that I am, as you know, a meteorologist, a scientist who studies the atmosphere and everything above the ground. There’s an entirely different branch of science that studies earthquakes and everything below the Earth’s surface, known as geologists. Yet most television stations don’t have resident geologists on staff. And perhaps simply because I have -ologist at the end of my title, I’ve spent hours on air after several significant earthquakes playing a geologist on television, as many look to meteorologists for an explanation.

While far from a geological expert, I did take a few courses in geology in college, and never spoke about anything that I didn’t definitively know as a fact.

So then the question becomes “if it’s not an earthquake, what is it?”

That’s where the sonic boom comes in, the noise that results from any object that successfully manages to break the sound barrier. And it’s that noise, or boom, that causes houses to shake, dogs to bark, nerves to rattle, social media posts to explode, and questions to abound.

In our case, the guilty objects are military aircraft, fighter jets conducting drills over the Atlantic Ocean, just to our southeast in an area known as the test track, which parallels the coasts of Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware over the open waters of the Atlantic. When any of these jets are given permission to go supersonic, the sound barrier is broken and a sonic boom results.

Not every sonic boom is created equal and widely heard or felt. That’s where meteorology actually factors in. Normally, the warmest air in the atmosphere is located near the ground, and it gets colder the higher up in the sky you travel. But in rare instances, the reverse can be true, and the temperature will actually get warmer with height. Meteorologists call this a temperature inversion, and it can have several impacts. When an inversion is in place, pollution and

smoke can get trapped, unable to rise, and cause air quality concerns.

But it’s also this inversion that can help to reflect the sound from a sonic boom downward towards the ground, amplifying it in the process. Our most notable sonic booms have occurred when an inversion is firmly in place.

Temperature inversions aren’t always easy to forecast. Furthermore, they aren’t a part of any mainstream weather report. Couple that with the fact that the military doesn’t make their drills and activities publicly known (and for good reason), and the results are “surprise” sonic booms.

Unfortunately, it’s something that will likely never be “forecasted”, and always come randomly, when military activity and ideal atmospheric conditions coincide.

While an earthquake is something most people understand and accept as fact, sonic booms are more enigmatic, and less widely accepted as an explanation. At least that’s what I’ve found from personal experience. In meteorology, the equivalent would be a tornado versus straight line winds.

People have seen tornadoes. They respect tornadoes. They accept the explanation that a tornado caused this widespread damage. The same isn’t true when a less familiar term like straight line winds or a downburst, or before 2012, a derecho, is used.

But unless the military changes the location of its test track, or temperature inversions entirely disappear, sonic booms will likely be a sporadic reality here in South Jersey.

Even if snow this winter is not.

Meteorologist Dan Skeldon has a degree in meteorology from Cornell University. He has forecasted the weather in South Jersey for the last 18 years, first on the former television station NBC40 and then on Longport Media radio. Dan has earned the American Meteorological Society Seal of Approval for Broadcast Meteorologists, and now does television broadcasts on WFMZTV in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley.

February 16, 2023

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Brigantine boy surfs 1,000 consecutive days

By Krystle J Bailey

I

n 2020, Carter Doorley set out on a mission to surf for 100 consecutive days. One small goal led to the next, and before he knew it, the Brigantine native, who turns 12 this Friday, had surfed 500 days. It’s been almost 500 more days since we last spoke to him, as this weekend marks his 1,000th day on the water.

When the world shut down in 2020, Carter took to the ocean to escape the indoors. By the time life began to return to normal, Carter was already on a mission to surf as many days in a row as possible. He enjoyed getting up every day to catch another wave. Throughout his journey, Doorley began gaining notoriety in the community and has since been sponsored by several companies, including Salty Britches, The Jetty Life, Catch Surf, and Heritage Surf Shop in Margate.

Carter collected skateboards and helmets for kids in need so all could enjoy the Brigantine skatepark which reopened in spring of 2022 after renovations.

His Instagram account, Carter Catches Waves, which is managed by his parents, has grown to almost 4,000 followers as he continues to share his surfing journey while paying it forward.

Carter’s mother, Dawn, who joins him on the beach every day to re-

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cord him catching waves says, “I’m just happy that he found something he loves. He barely talks about it in school or with friends. It’s just something he does for himself, and he treats every day like it’s the first one.”

With all eyes on Carter, he has been using his platform to pay it forward.

In the last two years, has used his social media presence to encourage donations for the local food pantry, helped raise money for animal shelters, started a skateboard collection in support

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Carter collects canned foods for the community FoodBank.

Carter is now part of the South Jersey Boardriders and Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) All-Stars.

Keep up with Carter’s journey @ CarterCatchesWaves on Instagram.

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us that the hardest part of the journey has been the bitter cold winter mornings.

However, no matter the weather, Carter continues to show up simply because he enjoys it. He looks forward to reaching the three-year mark and looks forward to whatever comes next. For now, he’s just catching one wave at a time with a smile on his face.

“I think I am a much better surfer than when I started,” shared Carter Doorley. “Every day I try to do better than I did the day before.

Photo by Jack Fahey of a local skatepark, and more.

This Saturday, as he approaches his 1,000th day of surfing, Carter tells

Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet.

Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5

February 16, 2023

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Multi-Day Events

Events and Happenings

The Fifth Annual New Work Weekend ▶Saturday, February 18 & Sunday, February 19 at 3pm Studio Space 112 Woodland Ave. Somers Point. Enjoy eight 10 minute plays by local, regional, and national writers. Admission is $10 cash at the door, with Saturday performances being streamed online. For more information, call 323-793-2153 or visit http:// studiospacespnj.com.

Michael Pedicin Jazz Concert Series ▶Sundays at 2pm Ocean City Library 1735 Simpson Ave. Join Ocean City Library for a special concert series with the Michael Pedicin Quartet.

Sunday Feb. 19 features the music of Cannonball and Nat Adderley, and Sunday, Feb. 26 includes graphic artist and painter Michael McGarvey. The event is free to attend. For more information, visit oceancitylibrary.org.

Progressive Atlantic City Boat Show ▶Wednesday, March 1 – Sunday, March 5 Atlantic City Convention Center 1 Convention Blvd. Find the boat of your dreams and everything to go with it at the Progressive Atlantic City Boat Show. See and shop hundreds of new boats and unbeatable assortments of marine gear. From luxury motor and sailing yachts to sport fishers, performance boats, inflatables and personal watercraft, there are boats for every lifestyle, activity and budget.

Open Wednesday-Friday Noon-8pm, Satur-

day 10am-8pm, and Sunday 10am-6pm. More information at acboatshow.com.

New Jersey State High School Wrestling Championships ▶Thursday, March 2 – Saturday, March 4 Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The state’s most decorated wrestlers will make their way to Atlantic City this March for the NJSIAA Individual State Wrestling Championships. With a state title on the line, attendees will cheer on their favorite high school stars as the mat is rolled out. The event will be held Thursday at 1pm, Friday at 9am and 6pm, and Saturday at 10am. Tickets available via the Boardwalk Hall box office or Ticketmaster.

Thursday, February 16th

Piano Bar at the Gateway ▶7-9pm 2022 Baltic Ave. Atlantic City Featuring Michael McAssey, 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, February 17th

CSCNJ Indoor Yard Sale ▶9am-1pm 700 New Rd. Linwood

Cancer Support Community New Jersey at Gilda’s Club is holding an Indoor Yard Sale this Friday. Office supplies, filing cabinets, décor, art supplies, furniture, housewares, and more.

The World-Famous Harlem Gospel Choir ▶7:30pm Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Farris Dr. Galloway Performing contemporary gospel with a touch of jazz and blues, The World-Famous Harlem Gospel Choir is synonymous with power vocals, glorious sound and infectious energy.

For over two decades they have been America’s premier gospel choir and have toured the globe thrilling audiences with the inspirational power of black gospel music. Learn more and purchase tickets at http://stockton.edu/pac.

Saturday, February 18th

Nature & Environmental Family Fun Day ▶9:30am-12pm Bill and Nancy Hughes Performing Arts Center 501 Atlantic Ave. Ocean City The Ocean City Environmental Commission will sponsor a free family-friendly Nature and Environmental Fun Day in the Ocean City High School cafeteria. The event will include interactive education, zoo animals, crafts, games, a recycling activity and more. The lineup of participants include the Cape May County Zoo, Wetlands Institute, O.C. Environmental Commission, OCHS Student Environmental Association, and Ocean City Free Public Library.

Other exhibitors include the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, Cape May County Municipal Utilities Authority, and more. Admission is free.

Mike’s Seafood 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk for Autism ▶12pm Excursion Park and the Promenade, Sea Isle City Join Mike’s Seafood for the 15th Annual Run/Walk for Autism. After the event, join in the huge heated tents at Excursion Park for Live Music, an Awards Ceremony, Door-Prizes,

and Magicians and Face Painting for the Kids; all while enjoying a large Buffet consisting of Bagels, Donuts, Pastries, Soft Pretzels, Fruit and Drinks. This Family Friendly event brings out over 4,000 Runners and Walkers to Support Children with Disabilities. For questions, email polarbearrunwalk4autism@gmail.com or sign up online at www.polarbearrunwalkforautism.com.

Saturday Movie Matinee ▶2pm Somers Point Library 801 Shore Rd. Stop by the library to enjoy a family-friendly, Saturday afternoon movie, of the title Gnomeo and Juliet. Guardians must remain present with children 9 and under. Program subject to change. Open to ages 4 and up.

Registration required by visiting the library or calling (609) 927-7113.

ARTeriors Baltic Avenue Closing Party ▶6-9pm 2022 Baltic Ave. Atlantic City Join Atlantic City Arts Foundation this Saturday for a Closing Party at ARTeriors Baltic Avenue. We’ll celebrate the artists, volunteers, donors, and team that made this instillation possible. Food will be provided by Tony’s Baltimore Grill, with live music by Twisted Livin’. Tickets include admission, food, and wine or soft drinks. Tickets and information are available at http://acaf.squarespace.com/ arteriors2022.

Monday, February 20th

Harlem Globetrotters 2023 World Tour ▶1pm Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to Boardwalk Hall with a game like never before. Your favorite Globetrotter stars are bringing out their amazing basketball skill, outrageous athleticism and a non-stop

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February 16, 2023

Discover Ocean Outdoor Teak and Poly Outlet Depleted furniture inventory not a problem here as spring season appoaches

A

s the cool, salty air warms up along the coast, many shore homeowners and businesses are thinking of updating their outdoor spaces. When it comes to bringing the indoor comforts of home outside, Ocean Outdoor Teak and Poly Outlet is ready to help get the look you want with quality furniture that lasts.

Like many businesses, furniture retailers have faced a shortage of incoming inventory, leaving families and businesses without quality products to make their space look the best. Retailers across the country say that shipment issues are the primary cause of the shortage. Because most patio furniture makers work outside the United States, tariffs and taxes along with other international issues have been on the rise.

This creates is creating big problems for homeowners and businesses alike. Fortunately, local buyers need not to worry since this isn’t a problem for Ocean Outdoor Teak and Poly Outlet. They have new shipments coming in every week. Truckloads of beautiful, modern furniture are available for customers

quickly overtaking the outdoor market.

Poly lumber is built mostly from recycled products and holds its color well. Combine its color retention with stainless steel hardware, a variety of color combinations and styles, and you may find that poly is the best choice for beach homes, vacation resorts or country living. It is extremely durable and resistant to nearly anything Mother Nature throws its way. Poly plastic furniture can be

to browse and purchase. “Because the outdoor season is relatively short here in New Jersey, it is important for us to stock enough furniture for our local customers to have immediately,” says store owner Alice DiGiovanni. “We are ready now, with a full selection of colors and designs of both Poly and Teak furniture.”

Teak has always been the gold standard in outdoor tables and chairs but its new rival, Poly lumber furniture is

left outside in the summer and winter without any adverse effects. The plastic is resistant to sun, rain, sleet, snow, wind, saltwater, chlorine and mildew. You can’t say that about furniture made from wood or metal.

Poly furniture is low maintenance and easy to care for; it requires no special coatings, sanding or staining. It does not require hazardous chemical treatments to maintain its durability. Poly only needs

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Tables, chairs, deep seating sets and pub sets are ready to go to their new home today. Poly pub sets are popular at the shore. Two seat pub sets start at $950 and our fourseat pub sets with a pub table start at $1,400. Pub and bar sets are great because they allow couples and families to see over deck railings so their view is not obsured.

These sets have the potential to make Ocean City, Sea Isle, and Margate customers very happy. The popular folding Adirondack Chairs start at $299. They are perfect for fire pits on cool autumn evenings.

The Adirondack chairs sit low to the ground and offer a casual, relaxed feel. Alice reports they are selling very well to campers that seek comfort outdoors.

After 15 years in Somers Point, The Teak and Poly Outlet moved to Cape May County. They are located on Route 9 in Ocean View/ Clermont Cape May County. It's a beautiful area two miles south of exit 17 on the Garden State Parkway (Sea Isle exit). “We have a much larger store here and a lot of room to expand, with large outdoor displays, and a large workshop to finish and refinish our teak furniture.” says Alice’s daughter, Allison. “Over the years you may have seen our furniture at the Ocean City Yacht Club, Cape May-Lewes Ferry, Hyatt Penns

Landing, Beach Creek Oyster Bar to name of few. Our company has been in the New Jersey shore area for nearly 20 years.

Our past stores in Cape May and Somers Point have been combined with one convenient store right in the middle, in Dennis Township. We offer white glove service from LBI to Cape May, Annapolis, Washington DC, and Ocean City Maryland.”

Call (609) 2871767 or check out w w w.TeakNearMe. com. For up-to-date information, check out their Facebook page, Teak Outlet - Ocean Outdoor Patio. Hurry and get beautiful new outdoor furniture so you can enjoy it now and for years to come.

↘Continued from 10 good time. Join the Globetrotters as they go head-to-head against the Washington Generals who will stop at nothing to try and defeat the world’s winningest team. Tickets available via Boardwalk Hall box office and Ticketmaster.

Tuesday, February 21st

Furry Buddies ▶6pm Mays Landing Library 40 Farragut Ave. Read a story to therapy dogs, Erin, Kody, Fritz, and Frieda, who love sharing stories with children. Guardians must remain with children 9 and under. Suggested for ages 6-14. Registration required by visiting the library or calling (609) 625-2776.

Mardi Gras on Tennessee Avenue ▶7pm Tennessee Avenue, Atlantic City New Orleans is coming to Tennessee Avenue this Tuesday. The party starts at noon with food and drink specials at Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, followed by live music from The Dixie Band with Tom Angello at 7pm. Rhythm & Spirits will also have food specials, including live jazz music from 6-9pm. Plus, enjoy amazing food and drink specials at Cuzzie’s and Bar 32 all day.

Wednesday, February 22nd

Tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series ▶7pm Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point Join the South Jersey Jazz Society for an

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evening of live jazz music at Gregory’s, featuring Tom Angello on the drums, Joe Madiri on clarinet, Al Harrison on trumpet, Tom Quail on the trombone, Pat Mercuri on guitar, and Jack Hegyi on bass. Admission is free, but reservations are recommended. Call (609) 927-6665 to reserve your table. More information is available at www.southjerseyjazz.org.

Friday, February 24th

Atlantic City Ballet: Carmina Burana ▶5-9pm Circus Maximus Theater Carmina Burana is based upon a manuscript dating back to the 11th century and discovered by a Bavarian librarian in 1803. Carl Orff set the poems to music in 1936, and Nicolo Fonte prepared the score. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster and Caesars box office. Visit acballet.org for tickets and information.

Saturday, February 25th

Ventnor Rabies Clinic ▶10am-12pm Ventnor City Fire Department 20 N. New Haven Ave. Ventnor City will host a free Rabies Clinic at the Ventnor City Firehouse on New Haven and Winchester Avenues. Free rabies shots will be granted to dogs of Ventnor residents that has a valif 2023 dog license. 2023 Dog licenses are now due and can be renewed at the rabies clinic. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (609) 823-7904 or email lhand@ventnorcity. org for questions.

STEM Saturday: Marshmallow Tower Challenge ▶11am Ventnor Library 6500 Ventnor Ave. Put on your thinking caps and build a tower using only marshmallows and toothpics. How tall will your tower be? Guardians must remain present with children aged 9 and under during the activity. Open to ages 8 and older. Registration required by visiting the library or calling (609) 823-4614.

Remembering Jamie Italian Night Dinner ▶4-8pm Egg Harbor Township Elks 1815 Somers Point Mays Landing Rd. Save the Date as the Remembering Jamie Foundation hosts their 23rd annual Italian

Night dinner. Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for children and includes a buffet dinner, raffle prizes, and much more. For additional information, contact Jim Crescenzo at jcrescenzo@verizon.net, call 609-369-2965, or visit rememberingjamie.org.

Sunday, February 26th

Coffee with Cops ▶11am-2pm Ocean City Community Center 1735 Simpson Ave. Ocean City The Ocean City Police Department will hold a Coffee with Cops event in the atrium outside the Ocean City Free Public Library this Sunday. The public is invited to discuss any thoughts or questions on local policing and other topics with the department’s Community Policing Unit. The program is designed to help officers and community members connect in an informal setting. The library will co-sponsor the event and provide free coffee, bagels and pastries to all who attend. For more information, contact Patrolman John Davis at 609525-9142 or JDavisIV@ocnj.us.

Stockton Chamber Players ▶2pm Stockton Campus Center Theatre 101 Vera King Farris Dr. Galloway Come to Stockton and hear some of the area’s finest classical musicians perform outstanding examples taken from chamber music repertoire. Under the direction of Dr. Christopher DiSanto, the Stockton Chamber Players are one of the area’s most beloved musical events. Learn more and purchase tickets at http://stockton.edu/pac.

Thursday, March 2nd

Atlantic City Boat Show Captain’s Table VIP Reception ▶6-9pm Atlantic City Convention Center 1 Convention Blvd.

Come join the finest chefs as the Community FoodBank of New Jersey Southern Branch along with its member charity, Let Us Eat – Please, hosts the Progressive Atlantic City Boat Show’s VIP Reception. The evening will include delicious food, cocktails, and a lavish array of desserts from more than 20 local top chefs from across Southern New Jersey.

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February 16, 2023

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Live entertainment will also be provided at the event. Tickets include entrance to this year’s boat show all day on Thursday, March 2nd. For more information, please visit https://give. cfbnj.org/LUEP. An Evening of Irish ▶7pm Egg Harbor Township Community Center 5045 English Creek Ave. The Greate Egg Harbour Township Historical Society will host “An Evening of Irish”. Emerald Isle Academy Dancers and Sand Pipers Pipes and Drums bagpipers will be presenting the event for the public. Free to GEHTHS members; $2 admission for non-members. Membership forms will be available. Free refreshments

Friday, March 3rd

Tony Mart Cares Concert ▶7pm Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Tony Mart Presents will host a special concert on Friday, March 3rd, with a performance with the Tony Mart All-Stars. The event is free to the public with reserved seating available for $10. Proceeds benefit Tony Mart Cares for Mark Pfeffer. For more information, visit tonymart.com.

Saturday, March 5th

Atlantic County’s Notable Women in History ▶2pm Atlantic County Historical Society 907 Shore Rd. Somers Point Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 5th for a Power Point presentation on “A Few of Atlantic County’s Notable Women in History.”

Plus, check out a large display showcasing their accomplishments in upstairs museum throughout the month of March 2023 during museum hours Thursday through Sunday from 10-3.

Thursday, March 9th

Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala ▶6pm Harrah’s Waterfront Convention Center 777 Harrah’s Blvd. Atlantic City The Atlantic Cape Foundation and Academy of Culinary Arts cordially invites the public to attend the 40th Annual Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala. It will be a spectacular evening to sample the finest dishes, desserts, and libations the South Jersey area has to offer. Plus, enjoy a 50/50 raffle drawing, photo booth, and live entertainment by Plaid Salmon.

Tickets and information are available at atlantic.edu/about/foundation/gala.

Upcoming Bus Trips

Philadelphia Flower Show with EHT Recreation ▶Thursday, March 9th EHT Recreation is heading to the annual PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, being held inside the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

This year’s theme is “The Garden is Electric!”

The bus will leave March 9th at 2pm from the EHT Convention Center and depart at 8pm from the Convention Center. Price is $45. Don’t delay; this trip will sell out. Call (609) 272-8120 to reserve your seat.

February 16, 2023

Philadelphia Art Museum with the ACAA ▶Saturday, March 25th Hitch a ride with the Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance to the Philadelphia Art Museum. Check in time is 7:40am at Absecon Field of Dreams, and the bus departs at 8am sharp. Please be prompt. The bus will return at approximately 6:30pm. Tickets are $50 per person and are for transportation only.

Price does not include museum entry. For more information, visit www.abseconarts. com.

Health and Wellness

NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups ▶Monday, March 13th at 7pm St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 606 Shore Rd. Somers Point NAMI Connection is a recovery support group for adults with a mental health condition. Family Support Group is a support group for adult friends and family members of people with mental health conditions. For more information and to register, please visit www.namiacm.org, or call 609-741-5125. NAMI ACM is a non-profit 501C(3) corporation.

Dementia Support Group ▶Wednesday, February 15th at 2pm Earth Angels for Dementia 115 Route 50, Mays Landing Held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month. Call Diane Conover at 609402-6966 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. Groups are also provided to individuals with a family member who lives with a mental health challenge. To receive a full list and to register, call 609-652-3800 or unitedbywellness@mhanj.org. Offered by United By Wellness, which is programming of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey, local office located in Galloway.

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 or by calling the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County at 609-652-3800. Offered

by United By Wellness, a statewide virtual wellness center.

Wellness Groups A wide variety of online groups are offered to enhance wellness and introduce interested participants to ways they can improve their day-to-day mental health.. To register and receive links by email, call 609652-3800 or unitedbywellness@mhanj.org.

Do you have an upcoming event?

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Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, February 16th

The Weir Wolves 4-7pm Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City Steve Mullary 5:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point Carlos Morales 6-8pm. Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point Doug Jennings 6-9pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate The Feel Good Music Band 6:30-9:30pm Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Billy Strings 8pm Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Dane Anthony 8pm-12am Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City DJ Luap 8pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Red Meat Conspiracy w/ CY Sooy and the Rain Dawgz 8pm. Anchor Rock Club 247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City

Jexxa Duo 6-10pm Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City Petty Cash 7-10pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate Atley Moon Duo 7:30pm Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora Billy Strings 8pm. Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Chris Yoder Band 8pm Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Bush w/ Candlebox 9pm Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Destructors V.3 10pm Anchor Rock Club 247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City Dead Reckoning 10pm Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City Gypsy Wisdom 10pm. The Yard at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

Friday, February 17th

Saturday, February 18th

Dead Reckoning 4-7pm Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City Jim Fisher 5:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point Band of Make Believe 6pm Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

It’s All Good Band 12-4pm. Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City The Deep End 4-7pm Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City Beth Tinnon Party Duo 5-8pm Bar One at Resorts Casino 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Nick Moccia Trio 5-9pm Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City Chris Yoder 5:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point Black Car Gina Trio 6pm Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Billy Walton Band 7-10pm. The Yard at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City No Clue Trio 7-10pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate Dave Greenwood 7:30pm Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora Billy Strings 8pm. Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Euphonious & Muscle Tough 8pm Anchor Rock Club 247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City Kool & The Gang 8pm Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Marc Anthony 8pm Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City MJ Live – Michael Jackson Concert Tribute 8pm. Superstar Theater at Resorts 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Fight Back Home 10pm, The Yard at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City The Deep End 12am Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City

Sunday, February 19th

Greg Clark 10am-1pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate John King 12-4pm. Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City DJ Sepper 5-9pm. The Yard at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City John McNutt Trio 6pm. Villain & Saint at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Valentine’s Soul Jam w/ The Whispers, The Stylistics, Bloodstone, Heatwave 8pm Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Changing Lanes 10pm. The Yard at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Bergen Boys 11pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Monday, February 20th

Red 7-11pm. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City

Tuesday, February 21st

Live Jazz Music 6-9pm. Rhythm & Spirits 129 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City The Dixieland Jazz Band with Tom Angello 7-10pm. Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City Patty & Bugzy 8pm-12am Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City

Wednesday, February 22nd Danny Eyer 5:30pm Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point

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Tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series w/ Joe Madiri, Al Harrison, Tom Quail, Pat Mercury & Jack Hegyi 7-8:30pm. Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point Jazz by the Bob Sterling Band 7-10pm Bocca. 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate Michael Stevens 8pm-12am Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 Huron Ave. Atlantic City

Thursday, February 23rd

Cole Moore 6-8pm. Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point DJ Pat Conlon 8pm, Nola’s Bar at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Friday, February 24th

Chris Yoder Trio 7:30pm. Villain & Saint at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Dom Grosso Duo 7:30pm Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora Flogging Molly 8pm. Sound Waves at Hard Rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Visions of Atlantis w/ The Spider Accomplice, Empress 8pm. Anchor Rock Club. 247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City NJ British Invasion 8pm. Josie Kelly’s Public House. 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Chaos on the Coast 10pm. The Yard at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

Saturday, February 25th

Hawkins Road 12-4pm. Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City DJ Vito G 5-9pm. The Yard at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City Rob Lipkin 5:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Beesley’s Point High Five Swan Dive 6pm Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Greg Clark 7:30pm Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Marmora Elvis Costello & The Imposters 8pm Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Glenn Roberts 8pm Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City The Turtle Heads 8pm-12am Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Beach n Glow 9pm. Anchor Rock Club 247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City The B Street Band 9pm. Margaritaville 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City DJ 9pm. Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point Joel Corry 10pm HQ2 Nightclub at Ocean Casino 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Stealing Savannah 10pm. The Yard at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

Sunday, February 26th

Nina Zeitlin & Lauren Pelaia 8pm 1927 Lounge at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Events subject to change.

February 16, 2023

O

No one can outrun him: State Trooper fastest in U.S.

By Krystle J Bailey

“R

unning has been in my family since the beginning of time,” shares 33-year-old Alan Laws Jr. of Pleasantville.

The New Jersey state trooper and creator of the Obey The Laws Experience has spent his life dedicated to the pursuit of greatness. Now, as a father of three and physical training instructor for the NJ State Police, Laws spends his spare time personally training other first responders.

He knows firsthand how physical preparedness can help meet the demands of the job and is passionate about helping others achieve their fullest potential.

His lifelong track career led him to the 2019 World Police and Fire Games in China, where he earned global recognition and the honorary title of “The Fastest State Trooper in

16

the United States.”

The journey began at Belmont Plateau out of Philadelphia, where Laws began to train at the age of five. When his father, Alan Laws Sr., discovered his son’s inherent love for physical fitness, he started encouraging him to compete and putting him in positions to win. Every week, Laws would show up to race.

With his dad as his coach and mentor, Laws grew in confidence and physical ability, and it wasn’t long before he began to make a name for himself on the track.

He went on to run track on a local and national level and, by the age of 9, was ranked No. 1 in the U.S. for his age group. By age 11, Laws was a national champion with his 4 x 800m relay team.

As a Pleasantville High School student-athlete, Laws continued to strive to be the best of the best, from the track to his school work. While he was busy achieving All-American status with his relay team and winning races, he maintained straight A’s and graduated from Pleasantville with a cumulative 4.2 GPA. “There was no track without

A's and B's," explains Laws. “My parents worked together. My mom took care of the education, and my dad took care of athletics.

There was no compromise. I was a student first and an athlete second.”

That mindset transferred into his college career when Laws went on to run track at Delaware State University, where he was an All-Conference, IC4A track athlete and graduated magna cum laude with four years of academic honors for the Middle Eastern Athletic Conference.

After a series of life and career changes, Laws found his path as a New Jersey State Trooper in 2017. He has since competed in the U.S. Police and Fire Championships and the World Police and Fire Games, bringing home gold medals in the 400-meter hurdles, 400m, 4 x 100m relay, 4 x 400m relay, and silver in the open 400m. He looks forward to competing in the U.S. games again this summer in San Diego, Calif., and the World Police and Fire Games in Winnipeg, Canada.

When asked why he trains as hard as he does, Laws explains

February 16, 2023

that he trains for life. Having been through several setbacks, including accidents and injuries, he attributes his recovery and healing to his physical health and faith.

“Racing, for me, simulates life,” explains Laws. “When running on the track and in the real world, there will always be hurdles. In a race, there’s only one option - over. If you go around or through, you are disqualified. After one hurdle comes another. That’s life too.

There will always be an obstacle to overcome, but quitting has never been an option.”

Now, as a father of three, still competing on the track and celebrating his children in their respective sports, he is intentional about balancing the athlete/father/ coach responsibilities while maintaining his own training.

“Growing up, my dad was my coach, but he never took Coach Laws into being a dad at home,” explains Laws about his father. “There was a separation point. When we got in the car, he turned it off. It wasn’t something we discussed at the dinner table or before bed. Talking about the track

was reserved for the track. I took on those same qualities with my kids.”

When he’s not working, running, or in dad mode, Laws can be found in his home gym, where he trains other first responders for optimum performance. When the world shut down during the Covid-19 pandemic, Laws began to focus his attention on his training business.

Clients who work with Laws have access to custom workout plans, nutrition, support, and accountability. He specializes in speed and agility training, strength and conditioning, weight loss and general fitness, and of course, running.

“Faith is the foundation behind everything that I do,” explains Laws.

“I can’t walk out into the battlefield, work, onto the track, or any stage without knowing that God is present with me. God runs through me, speaks through me, and even when I am training clients, I pray about it.

First responders looking to enhance their physical performance and strength can contact Alan Laws Jr at ObeyTheLaws365@gmail.com or by following him on Instagram at @ Obey_The_Laws.

Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet.

Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5

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Officials call for offshore wind moratorium to allow search for answers

By James FitzPatrick Contributing Writer

W

ith whale deaths and other major uncertainties still unresolved, are we ready to commit to a decades-long mass industrialization of the ocean?

That was one of the key questions posed by Brigantine Mayor Vince Sera as the city played host to its third meeting on state and federal government plans to turn vast sections of ocean off of Brigantine and Atlantic City into a sea of wind turbines.

In front of a packed house at the Brigantine Community School Saturday, Feb. 11, local state and federal lawmakers, citizen advocates and concerned neighbors expressed their concerns about a project by Atlantic

Shores to build 110 wind turbines in a 183,000-acre section of ocean as close as 10 miles off of Atlantic City.

In June of 2021, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities awarded 2,658 MW of offshore wind capacity to EDF/Shell’s Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind project, and Orsted’s 82-turbine Ocean Wind II, to be located about 15 miles out to sea.

In June of 2019, Orsted got the greenlight for 1,100 MW for its 98-turbine Ocean Wind 1, also 15 miles out. The wind farms are in line with Gov. Phil Murphy’s master plan to be producing 100 percent clean, renewable energy in New Jersey by the year 2050.

The issue blew up in December when whale deaths suddenly became a chronic problem on New Jersey and New York beaches.

One theory about the cause of the whale mortalities blames sonar mapping of the seafloor being conducted

in preparation for the installation of wind turbine monopoles. Sonar can affect whales’ natural sensitivity to sound.

Sera noted that the Brigantine-based Marine Mammal Stranding Center has been tracking whale washup data since 2002. He said there are typically about seven per year.

“We’ve had eight in a couple of weeks,” he said. “What’s going on?”

So far the most commonly cited explanation is ship strikes.

“I don't doubt that, but what's causing these whales to all of a sudden not know how to navigate around boats? That’s the question,” he said.

Brigantine has been the leader among local governments calling

for a moratorium on offshore wind development until experts can come to an agreement on what’s happening. Sera explained how Brigantine’s actions have grown into a movement.

On Jan. 18, Brigantine City Council passed a resolution calling for a moratorium on all ocean wind development activity until it can be proved that there is no connection between the whale deaths and the wind farm development. He pointed out that other municipalities have adopted the same or similar resolutions and the number keeps growing.

On Jan 30, 12 mayors of New Jersey coastal towns signed a letter calling for an immediate moratorium on all offshore wind activity “pending a thorough investigation by federal and state authorities.” The mayors express their concern about “the unprecedented number of whales that have washed ashore recently.”

The letter was sent to Sens. Cory Booker and Bob Menendez. It also went to Reps. Jeff Van Drew, Frank Pallone, and Chis Smith.

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February 16, 2023

Signing the letter were officials representing Wildwood Crest, North Wildwood, Stone Harbor, Linwood, Brigantine, Long Beach Township, Mantoloking, Bay Head, Point Pleasant Beach, Spring Lake and Deal.

On hand at the meeting, Rep. Jeff Van Drew said the wind farms will do more harm than good and are making billions at the expense of our local economy, especially tourism, and fishing.

“We want business and we want to create jobs, but you don't create jobs by destroying the environment, by destroying other jobs, by destroying fishing, by destroying tourism, by destroying our environment,” said Van Drew. “That’s not the way that you do it.”

He said he will seek legislation in Congress calling for an offshore wind moratorium on the East Coast.

“This is about freedom. We don't want it,” he said. “We live here, but it's being forced upon us regardless of what we say and what we do and that’s wrong.”

He said it’s a major issue and he expects to hold hearings around March 16 locally and in Washington.

“You are at a crossroads right now.

This is one of the biggest issues of our time.“ He said it will take thousands of people to go against global big money interests who are only in it for profit.

Fighting back is especially difficult considering that the state took away the right of home rule when it comes to wind turbines, the former state senator said.

State Sen. Vince Polistina was more diplomatic when it came to his turn to speak, noting that there were wind power supporters and trades people in the audience. Offshore wind is expected to create thousands of

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new construction jobs and hundreds more long-term maintenance jobs in the state.

Politistina called for a 30-day pause to allow time to find out what is happening.

“Let’s take a break.

Let’s take a deep breath and let's try to figure out what's going on together,” he said. “We all have an obligation to try to understand what is going on and in a 30-day period we could have the full necropsies and we could also get clarity from the federal regulators and from the companies that are doing it.”

Keith Moore and Katie Finnegan were on hand from Defend Brigantine Beach.

The grassroots organization began in December as a Facebook group and has grown to more than 1,800 members in just seven weeks, noted Finnegan who does a lot of the posting on the page. The organization has gained 501c3 status and is in the process of raising money to fund potential litigation against the wind farm projects, she explained.

“Our mission is to defend Brigantine Beach from the two planned industrial wind turbine projects which we believe will devastate our beach economy and our environment and New Jersey’s coasts,” Finnegan said.

She said the group needs volunteers to help out with events and donations to mount legal challenges.

Keith Moore explained how local and interests were not consulted when the government’s offshore energy push began in 2016.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management leased coastal areas

to wind developers with little public input or regard for environmental and economic impacts such as the ones that we can expect locally, he said.

“From then the surveys were issued and we really had no public outreach or any meaningful role in decisions to allocate hundreds of thousands of acres off our shores,” he said. “And that needs to be changed.”

He warned that the potential impact on electrical rates could be significant if the full green energy plan goes forward.

While Defend Brigantine Beach believes in responsible, green energy, he called Atlantic Shores irresponsible, reckless, and unproven technology.

Chris Placitella from Save LBI notes how Atlantic Shores' own documents explain in detail how the wind turbines are going to be visible from just about anywhere near the coast, that includes rivers and bays, day and night.

Mayor Sera explained that each one will be about 1,400 feet tall, about the size of the Empire State Building.

“We have over 100 million people visit our state every year,” Placitella said. “The number one reason people come here is the Jersey Shore. Ocean, Atlantic and Cape May counties account for $17.8 billion in tax revenues and over 100,000 tourism jobs, which are at risk.”

He said the solution is to build them farther out at sea.

Photos courtesy of Real Brigantine 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.

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Say hello to Proshot, South Jersey’s largest indoor pickleball facility

By Steffen Klenk

T

he game of pickleball has been growing and by leaps and bounds over recent years. A recent visit to the Ocean City pickleball courts during the summer showed teams arriving before 7:30 in the morning. Many locals, such as Brigantine real estate agent Kimberly Mogan, have found themselves at local courts to play the game during their free time. “One of my friends is a pickleball player, and they introduced it to me.”

On a rainy Saturday morning in the middle of February, Proshot Pickleball in Egg Harbor Township

was the place to be. Dozens participated in mixed doubles matches, smiles being seen all around. “It’s more social, you can talk to people; I love that aspect of it.”

While there are many outdoor courts in our area, seasonal elements can make year-round play difficult, leaving players and athletes to indoor-specific locations, or to

play on adapted tennis courts. At Proshot, players can participate in the game any time of year, no matter the conditions.

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Located in Harbor Square, between Spirit Halloween and Restaurant Depot, in Egg Harbor Square, the state-of-theart facility boasts eight full-length fenced courts, a player’s lounge, locker rooms, and a soonto-be open pro shop. It is also the largest indoor facility of its kind in the South Jersey area and utilizes a global rating system called DUPR, and the Playbypoint app for easy reservations.

The project was spearheaded by friends and avid pickleball players Andy Pessano, Dan Wach and Dean Tridente. This innovative concept was announced at last year’s Funky Pickle event in Ventnor. Pessano is the owner of Landing Creek Pickleball, a pro store in Ocean City.

He says there has been a demand for indoor facilities dedicated to pickleball, and work started right away looking for retail space. “We knew we wanted to be close to the Parkway and Expressway, because the ease of getting to this shopping center was key,” says Pessano.

Another feature at Proshot is their playing surface. All eight courts use a patented pro-cushion material, giving the feeling of playing on an outdoor surface which is better on joints. This makes the game an added plus for the 55 and older community. “You can play much longer without feeling aches and pains; it just adds that element of comfort,” says Tridente.

Pickleball’s inception can be traced back to 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Wash. when late Congressman Joel Pritchard, and his two friends, Barney McCallum and Bill Bell, created a game that combined elements

of ping-pong, tennis, and badminton.

It evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular game that can be played indoors and outdoors, enjoyed by all ages and skill levels.

Over the years, pickleball has since gained international popularity as a sport. Tournaments are held widely by several leagues nationally, including the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP). Locally, last year’s Funky Pickle welcomed the No. 3 ranked mixed doubles team of Riley and Lindsey Neuman to our area.

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.

February 16, 2023

What does the future of pickleball look like? Tridente sees an expansion of pickleball courts throughout the country, including the potential for

more Proshot locations. “We’re looking for more opportunities to provide other communities, that want and need something like this, with a facility.”

Yearly and monthly membership options are available, which offers discounted court fee rates, advanced booking options , buddy passes, discounts on clinics, lessons, and more. Non-membership rates are available as well. In addition to team and social play, private clinics

and group instruction will also be offered, along with various leagues and tournaments. No matter your skill level, new to the game or the seasoned professional, Proshot is the ultimate place to play.

Proshot Pickleball is located at 6725 E. Black Horse Pike in Egg Harbor Township, inside the Harbor Square shopping center. They are open daily from 7am-9pm. To learn more, go to playproshot.com, email hello@play-

proshot.com and follow Proshot Pickleball on social media for up-to-date information and announcements.

Photos by Steffen Klenk

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There’s still time for a ski trip

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

W

hoosh! Snowflakes brush against your cheeks as you fly down the mountain.

You dodge trees and rocks while folks cheer you on as they ride the ski lift up the slope. Adrenaline and endorphins give you an incredible high.

Summer may be for the beach and surfing, but winter is for skiing.

Carving through the snow can be fun, empowering and a great way to enjoy the bitter cold. But how can folks liv-

ORDER

ing along the Jersey Shore take part in this fun sport?

Here are our tips for hitting the slopes as a shore local: Why Learn to Ski? Winter sports give folks an opportunity to learn a new skill and develop a fun hobby, get active, and enjoy time in nature (especially during the winter). Folks in the Northeast can easily fall into a quasi-hibernation, eating and sleeping and watching Netflix until the cherry blossoms bloom. Skiing is an accessible way to take advantage of the cold weather and celebrate the winter season.

Where Can I Ski? There’s no doubt that the Jersey Shore is a wintersport desert, so here are your options. You can drive up to Bear Mountain in about two and a half hours each way or High Mountain in the same amount of time. If you’d prefer to stay in New Jersey, check out Campgaw Mountain in Vernon Township. If you are willing to drive over three hours, consider Camelback Mountain Resort, Elk Mountain, or Shawnee Mountain.

How Can I Learn to Ski? You need three major supplies to learn to ski: elevation, gear, and snow.

We recommend booking an overnight stay at a nearby mountain and taking beginner lessons, then practicing on the beginner or "Bunny Hill."

The American Dream Mall offers Big SNOW, an indoor ski slope with artificial snow. You can practice on the small hill as much as you want, without the pressure of advanced skiers or the cost of a Pocono resort.

Who Can Ski? Skiing is an excellent activity for people of all ages and abilities. You could even ski in a sports wheelchair!

If you are a parent, gather your children and spouse and take a weekend getaway to the mountain. If skiing is outside of your ability, you could go tubing or enjoy the amenities of the lodge. Make sure to take pictures!

Where Can I Purchase Gear?

The Alpine Ski Shop in Egg Harbor Township has everything you need to hit the slopes this season. The store sells clothing and equipment for skiers, snowboarders, and tubers, including boots, poles, boards, helmets, goggles, and even discounted lift tickets.

“Almo's Alpine Ski & Snowboard Shop is a family owned business established in 1976. Our shop is run by knowledgeable staff who are avid skiers and snowboarders that have a passion for the sport and industry.

We carry all the top lines in skis, snowboards, apparel and accessories,” reads their website.

For more information, check out their website at http://alpineskishopnj.net/.

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February 16, 2023

Tony Mart Cares for Mark Pfeffer: A Night of Music and Memories

T

he next Tony Mart Cares party will take place 6 p.m. Friday, March 3, at Josie Kelly’s Public House, 908 Shore Road in Somers Point, with musical performances by the Tony Mart All-Stars starting at 7 p.m.

As usual the event will be free to the public with a reserved seating donation for $10.

Tony Mart Cares is a non-profit community organization that supports regional musicians, some from as far away as New Orleans and Tucson.

It’s about to undertake a new project centered around recording the music of “Big Bob” Ernano, and a special posthumous tribute to the music of Mark Pfeffer, Esq. Titled “Tony Mart Cares for Mark Pfeffer,” the fund-raising event will generate funds to produce a recording of music originally written and recorded on a limited basis by Pfeffer, one of the finest people to walk the face of the Earth. We all loved him so much.

This will be a project by Bob and the Tony Mart All-Stars to pay homage and honor Pfeffer’s songs that he composed and performed with “Big Bob” Ernano, and his lifelong friend, Joseph Sayegh, Esq., in a band of lawyers called “Hearsay.”

We will celebrate the first performance of these recordings on Friday, March 3, when the Tony Mart All-Stars perform some of them,

and highlights from the popular, “The Music that Made Tony Mart’s Famous” show.

There will be favorite requests from the performers and audience in a party dance show on a warm and wonderful night from 7 to 10 p.m., thanks to the support and generosity of Kathleen Lloyd and Dermot Lloyd at Josie Kelly’s Public House.

Also on that evening, Tony Mart Cares will celebrate and honor Cindy Fertsch, editor of Shore Local as she has agreed to join Carmen and Nancy Marotta, Frank Formica, Joe Sayegh, Dara Quattrone, Esq., “Old School“ Jimmy Glenn and Dawn Collins on the board of directors of Tony Mart Cares, which is now in its third year of community service to South Jersey.

We applaud her tremendous accomplishment and dedication to helping people and thank her wholeheartedly for agreeing to become part of Tony Mart’s.

Here's the list of the All-Stars who will be performing on March 3: Joining “Big Bob“ Ernano from the Tony Mart All-Stars that evening are Danny Eyer, the great first call saxophonist; Howard Isacson, the musical director of the Tony Mart All-Stars; Rich “Megahurtz” Kurtz; Bob Coulon from the Dane Anthony Band and special guest drummer, Bob Kimmel from the new, seriously great group, Red, who will be sitting in for “Old-School” Jimmy Glenn.

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Get a jump on planting by winter sowing your garden

Let It Grow

By Tammy Thornton

I

f you haven’t jumped on the Winter Sowers bandwagon, it’s time to hop aboard! Winter sowing is a method of seed germination that allows gardeners to plant seeds outdoors in the winter months. Seeds are subjected to freezes and thaws, encouraging them to break dormancy and germinate in a natural way. Small plastic containers serve as mini greenhouses, protecting the seeds until they germinate.

Winter sowing was developed by Trudi Greissle Davidoff around 2003.

Her method was widely popularized through the Facebook group “Winter Sowers”, currently boasting over 100,000 followers. While planting seeds outdoors in winter sounds counterintuitive, this method of propagating plants takes advantage of the freezing and thawing of winter weather to naturally break down

Start the gardening season early with winter sowing. seeds' outer shells and wake them up from dormancy. These seeds then naturally germinate at just the right time, producing tough little seedlings that don’t need to be hardened off.

Winter sowing also eliminates the need for grow lights and space indoors.

Traditionally, winter sowers use cleaned, recycled, gallon-sized milk jugs to plant their seeds. The milk jugs or other containers act as mini-greenhouses, giving them a small level of

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protection from harsh weather as well as from little critters. The lids of the milk jugs are removed and holes are made in the tops and bottoms of the containers. The openings in the top allow small amounts of rainwater and snow into the jug and also provide ventilation, while the bottom holes give the containers the required drainage. You can get creative by using different types of containers such as clear clamshell plastic (like the kind a rotisserie chicken would come in) or

other types of clear plastic containers with lids. When using milk jugs, cut the jug in half horizontally, leaving a hinge at the handle. Fill the bottom of the jug with approximately three inches of potting soil. Water the soil thoroughly and allow it to drain. Plant seeds the depth suggested on the seed packet. Then carefully water, being sure not to displace the seeds.

Once your seeds are planted, you will want to label them to avoid a frustrating guessing game in the spring.

Use a weather-proof marker or pen on a popsicle stick placed inside your container. Then close and reseal the milk jug with duct tape. At the proper time, as temperatures warm, you will see your little seedlings begin to sprout. Keep in mind that the seeds of different plants will germinate at various times. It will take a bit of patience.

Don’t give up if you don’t see the baby green leaves for a while. Rain or snow should sufficiently water the seeds, but check your containers once in a while to make sure they don’t thoroughly dry out. You may need to add a small sprinkling of water if we haven’t received much rain.

As spring nears, and days become warmer, open the containers and allow your seedlings to breathe in the

Enjoy a light breakfast while listening and interacting with experts on caring for your heart, rehabilitation after a heart event, and preventing heart disease.

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February 16, 2023

Do It Yourself...

Last year’s Cosmos. This winter sowed annual had hardy seedlings by April. great outdoors. Reseal during cold nights. When the danger of frost is over, you can transplant your seedlings into their permanent home in your garden. The beauty of winter sowing is that you don’t need to harden off the seedlings like you do for plants that were germinated and coddled indoors. Winter sown seedlings will be tough babies that will laugh at the cold.

Once you see the success rate of winter sowing, you’ll be smitten.

You may find yourself drinking more milk and eating more spinach just to

get your hands on more containers.

This method works for perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. You can find more detailed information on the Winter Sowers group Facebook page. You can also send your questions and comments 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.

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25

From 7 to 75, you're welcome aboard the Atlantic County Rowing Association

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

It’s a beautiful day on Lake Lenape at Atlantic County Park in Mays Land-

26

ing. The sun is shining and the trees provide just enough shade to give a little comfort on a hot summer day.

Bald eagles glide through the air as fishermen cast their lines while standing on the shoreline. Children giggle as they climb over jungle gyms and swing on the monkey bars.

A cast of unlikely characters (a high school student, a middle-aged man and a former college rower) sets up their boats and prepare for

an afternoon on the water. The coach instructs them on how to maximize their form and improve their endurance.

These rowers aren’t competing; they simply want to row.

That vision has been a part of the Atlantic County Rowing Association since its founding in 1991. Joe Haney, the founder and CEO of the club, who served as the girls’ rowing coach at Holy Spirit High School, noticed how

towns like Ventnor and Brigantine hosted rowing clubs, but there wasn’t one for the mainland.

“I hoped to educate people about the culture of rowing and add a recreational opportunity for people who live in towns like Mays Landing and Hammonton,” said Haney.

Anyone can sign up to participate in the club’s six-week summer program, and ACRA has worked with folks between the ages of 7 and 75.

Volunteer coaches work with beginners up to advanced rowers and help them learn to scull on the lake. The Atlantic County Rowing Association also offers an eight-week program in the fall.

Students can learn on either a scull, a two- or four-person boat, often paired with a more advanced rower so the newbie can glean tips and skills from their partner. Haney told Shore Local News they teach the harder scull rowing first, so students can feel confident and easily apply scull rowing to other boat work.

“We joke about our values, sometimes suggesting that we are the Grateful Dead Rowing Club because we are so chill and mellow,” he said.

“We are never training to compete.

For us, it’s all about enjoyment.”

Janine Chong is the mom to three boys (twins who are 15 years old and a 13-year-old son). Chong, of Vineland, found the ACRA Facebook page and registered her twins in the fall 2022 rowing program. This year she plans to register her younger son.

“They are a top-notch group of coaches who are devoted to this program and to the sport. They share their knowledge and promote safety, teamwork and the overall love of rowing,” she said. Not only do they share this with the kids, but with the parents as well. I truly believe that my boys will be better rowers overall due to their involvement. I also learned a lot by just observing.

Chong said it was a great time for the whole family and encourages anyone with an interest in rowing to participate.

"Parents, when Coach Haney tells you to get ready to learn, take a chance,” she said. “If I can do it and not fall in, so can you.”

Stepahnie Flynn of Port Republic is another mom of a rower, Steven, who has been involved with ACRA for the past three years.

“The coaches and volunteers are so passionate about the sport and instill that same passion in the kids,” Flynn said. “The program instills

February 16, 2023

confidence, perseverance, teamwork and respect. When they row together, they support each other, which follows them into the racing season (high school athletics) even if they are no longer on the same team.”

In celebration of the new year, ACRA hosted a Lake Lenape cleanup Jan.14. Eighty-seven volunteers participated, representing five different high school rowing programs.

The group walked the entire park along the water’s edge and through the campground. Despite temperatures in the 30s and snow flurries, ev-

February 16, 2023

eryone was cheerful and ready to help.

The Atlantic County Rowing Association has been supportive of the new rowing program at Atlantic Cape Community College. Three administrators from the college participated in the lake cleanup, showing they are on board with the sport and the club.

The ACRA is not affiliated with any high school program, but supports rowers in the off-season. Haney said that rowers from different schools become close friends through ACRA. Atlantic County high schools that offer crew include Absegami, Atlantic

City, Egg Harbor Township, Holy Spirit, Mainland Regional and Oakcrest.

Brigantine and Ventnor are also home to rowing clubs.

If you’re interested in joining one of the rowing programs, sign up early through the ACRA Facebook page.

The club regularly teaches between 90 and 100 students, but don't delay as they often have a waitlist.

Summer programs are $175 and $100 for returning students. The fall fee is $100 for returning students.

For more information, visit the club’s Facebook page at https://www.

facebook.com/AtlanticCountyRowingAssociationacra/ 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.

27

For better health, let’s move it, move it!

By Lela McAferty

A

fter reading the title, I have to let you know this is not an article about 90’s hip hop. Although you may want to listen to some after reading today’s topic.

We are talking about daily movement, in other words exercise! Specifically, how to begin incorporating daily movement or an exercise regimen into your life. It may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. There is a common misconception in our culture that exercise has to be going to a gym, wearing tights and running your little heart out. Nope! Movement is different for each person on this earth.

What works for one, may not work for another.

Now there are more scientifically proven methods than others, such as having a weight lifting routine to preserve lean muscle mass. Why do we want to preserve lean muscle mass? The muscles attached to our bones help us in

many important ways. Our lean muscle mass aids in building our bone density as we age, assists in preventing breaks and falls, increases our metabolism, and helps us manage chronic conditions.

When establishing a new movement routine, most of us need a few guidelines to help us begin. Here are a few key points to keep in mind to set yourself up for success!

1. Motivators and Whys An important component of starting a new routine or habit is your why.

For some it may be wanting to avoid chronic conditions, maybe lowering blood pressure or losing weight, or it could be wanting the ease of squatting down to play with the grandkids or new pup. Figure out your why and post your motivator up on the wall. Make it visible, so you can hold yourself accountable!

2. Modest Goals First A modest goal is a reasonable goal.

A good friend recently told me, “a mile is made up of inches”, and he is right.

Start small and build up. I know it may seem boring at first, but won’t small victories be better than disappointment?

Learning a new skill or habit takes time, enjoy the process of learning. A great example is starting with 10 minutes a day of taking a walk after lunch. After 3 days a week for 1 or 2 weeks, up it to 15

minutes. The next week make it 4 days a week in 15 minutes segments, or edit your movement to incrementally attain your first goal over several weeks.

3. Ease of Access A good life hack is to not put any small obstacles in the way of what you are aiming to accomplish. This works for movement as well. If you’re working out early, lay your clothes out and put your shoes by the door. Pick a workout that is not far from your home or work, within 15 minutes if possible. Speak to a friend or support person ahead of time and know what to expect from the gym or class you are attending.

4. Drink Water & Eat Healthy Food This concept is easy to understand but harder to practice sometimes. When you are hydrated and have adequate energy your walk or movement will feel better. Prioritize water and healthy food intake! Drink water frequently throughout your day, for some carrying a water bottle helps. A few hours before your workout try to eat whole and non-processed foods, to help your body efficiently produce energy when it’s needed.

5. Internal Vs. External Motivation The last piece of the puzzle involves a bit of reflection. Are you someone who looks within themselves for in-

ternal motivation (a list, written goals) or someone who functions externally (tells friends goals, peer group support)?

Some people maximize their chances with both! Take some time to reflect and make sure to follow through with your method of motivation.

Building a new habit takes time.

Not only does it take time, but a bit of character building and problem solving too. There will be days when some rearranging has to happen to get your movement in and some days when it may not happen and that’s certainly ok.

The important thing to consider is jumping right back on that train the next day.

Missing one day or even a week does not mean you won’t be able to achieve what you set out to accomplish. Don’t let that New Years resolution slide away, reassess and start over. Good Luck!

Lela McAferty is currently pursuing her master’s 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.

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February 16, 2023

Sarah Silverman Makes You Think (Not Just Laugh) At Ocean Casino

By Doug Deutsch

A

ttending a Sarah Silverman performance is not like seeing most comedians, even in these unpredictable days. For as long as I’ve followed her, the 52-year-old comic/actress has always been one to push the envelope, not just content to make you laugh – but rather, to make you think as well.

For her recent “Grow Some Lips” Tour – which made a stop at Ocean Casino Resort’s Ovation Hall in Atlantic City earlier this month – Silverman was in rare form, tackling a myriad of subjects many might consider taboo, including the specifics of how men and women wipe their buttocks front to back (in hilariously graphic detail); Anti-Semitism (she’s Jewish; she also got a huge laugh from the crowd by pointing out that ‘probably every Jew in the Atlantic City area is here tonite’), the Catholic Church, and the Boy Scouts. During her hour-long set, Silverman took to sitting down on the stage, something we have never seen a “stand-up’ comedian do, making for a more personal in-concert experience.

Silverman often referenced her current beau, comedy writer/comedian/television producer Rory Albanese, as well as good friend, comedian Chelsea Handler, the latter whom she called a mensch (Jewish for ‘good person’).

One interesting situation occurred regarding a heckler in the front row, who evidently was upset with Silverman for a fifteen-year-old skit from ‘The Sarah Silverman Show’ where Silverman’s character wore dark face paint to see whether it is more difficult to be black or Jewish.

“I’m playing a character, and I know this is wrong, so I can say it. I’m clearly liberal. That was such liberal-bubble stuff, where I actually thought it was dealing with racism by using racism,” she previously explained in an interview with GQ magazine. “I don’t get joy in that anymore. It makes me feel yucky. All I can say is that I’m not that person anymore.”

The heckler – seated in the front row, dead center to the stage -- also derided Silverman’s opening act and

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in this reviewer’s opinion, Ocean’s security personnel was totally justified in escorting him out of Ovation Hall.

Silverman addressed the situation from the stage professionally and with no overt emotion – a true pro.

29

Eagles’ Super effort not quite enough

By David Weinberg

A

terrific effort by the Eagles wasn’t quite good enough to win Super Bowl LVII last Sunday.

I picked the Chiefs to win and they responded with a last-second, 38-35 victory.

My wife, Karen, good-naturedly asked me to take a drink of “Hater-ade” after I predicted a Chiefs win. I countered by sipping on a Mai Tai at a pool bar at an Orlando resort during Super Bowl LVII while enjoying some fun in the sun and an outstanding game.

Central Florida wasn't all that different than Cape May on Sunday. There were a few folks sporting No. 15 Patrick Mahomes jerseys, but they were outnumbered 10-1 by Eagles fans who broke out into "E-A-G-L-E-S, Eagles" chants throughout the day.

That group included Karen, who

donned a green, No. 9 Rodney Peete jersey that she's owned since 1996 and shouted "Go Birds" to fellow diners at the Marriott Grande Lakes breakfast buffet and continued the practice while sitting poolside at adjacent Lakeshore Reserve.

When people asked why I was wearing a blue Margaritaville t-shirt and gold Arizona State hat - our son's college alma mater- instead of Eagles garb, she took delight in telling everyone that I was a "hater" who was predicting a Chiefs win.

Other diehard Birds fans such as Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, former Atlantic City High School boys basketball coach Gene Allen, not to mention so-called friends like Tom Shagren and Frank "Tater"Smith, were actually glad I took Kansas City, citing my mediocre, 11-8 record on Eagles picks this season as a sign that the Birds were going to prevail.

Still others were saltier than the rim on my Margarita.

I thought I had good reasons for my choice. The Eagles had the better overall team, but I thought Mahomes, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and perhaps Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco – a Vineland High School graduate - would make a difference.

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30

I also thought experience mattered, which gave former Eagles and current Chiefs coach Andy Reid an edge over Eagles counterpart Nick Sirianni and defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon.

Ultimately, that proved correct.

The Eagles offense also played great defense in the first half. The best way to contain Mahomes is to keep him on the sideline, which the Birds did by chewing up yards and time. They not only owned a 24-14 lead at halftime, but they also owned a whopping 21:54 to 8:06 advantage in time of possession.

They held the ball almost as long as Rihanna's halftime show.

However, football is a game of adjustments. Reid and company made some while Siranni, Gannon and others did not.

Some Eagles fans want to attribute the loss to the defensive holding penalty on cornerback James Bradberry against Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster on the Chiefs game-winning drive - it gave the Chiefs a first down and enabled them to run the clock down to the final seconds but even Bradberry admitted he had committed the infraction.

"It was holding," he said after the game. "I tugged his jersey. I was hoping they (officials) would let it slide."

There was plenty of blame to go around.

The Eagles vaunted pass rush - they had a team-record 70 in the regular season - was shut out. The entire defense fell apart down the stretch, allowing the Chiefs to score on all four of their second-half possessions.

The special teams also picked an awful time to break down, giving up a 65-yard punt return to Kadarius Toney - the longest punt return in Super Bowl history - that led to another Chiefs TD. That offset an outstanding performance by quarterback Jalen Hurts, who tied a Super Bowl record with three rushing touchdowns and also threw for 304 yards and a TD. If there were any doubts that Hurts is one of the top young quarterbacks in the league, they were removed. He is their franchise quarterback.

"I think there is definitely a lot to learn from it," Hurts said Tuesday. "I have had the opportunity to watch (the replay) and I think I'm going to move forward with all of those experiences

in mind and try to use those things to better myself and grow and help the guys around me and we're going to definitely use that as an experience to take a step and move forward.

“You have to look yourself in the mirror and assess it for what it is and do the things that need to be done to grow from it. I think that's my mentality going on and I think that will be this whole entire team's mentality moving forward."

The loss marked the end of an historic streak of disappointment for Philadelphia sports teams. According to ESPN and other outlets, Philly became the first pro sports town to see three franchises come up short. The Phillies lost the World Series in six games to the Astros, while the Union lost on penalty kicks to LAFC in the MLS World Cup Final. And now this.

On the bright side, the 76ers seem to be contenders this year, though they haven't won the NBA title since Julius Erving and Moses Malone led them to a championship 1983.

The Eagles could have a tough time continuing this season’s success, despite having one of the league’s top young quarterbacks in Hurts.

They have 20 players set to become unrestricted free agents, including veterans defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, Graham, center Jason Kelce and standouts such as Bradberry, linebacker T.J. Edwards, defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, and running back Miles Sanders.

My money would be on the Phillies to break the drought. They had a productive offseason that was highlighted by the addition of shortstop Trea Turner. He joins a talented lineup that includes Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto and others.

Ring the bell.

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.

February 16, 2023

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Ocean City was a car buyer’s paradise in 1956

A Look Back at Ocean City

By Fred Miller

S

season when conversations turn easily and often to motor cars. And, in almost any gathering, you’re likely to find a wide difference of opinion about the relative merits of the year’s automobile offerings. Until the talk turns to Cadillac!”

Ocean City Motors, 14-16-18 Atlantic Avenue: “For ’56 choose FORD… America’s Favorite Station Wagon!

With Thunderbird Y-8 power…Thunderbird styling…and exclusive new Lifeguard Design.”

ixty-five years ago this month was an exciting time at the ten Ocean City automobile dealerships. It was the new model introduction season and people from all over South Jersey flocked to Ocean City showrooms to check out the new and improved automobiles.

The new car advertisements were loaded with pictures showing how different the 1956 automobiles were compared to the previous year. It was hoped the Ford car buyers would feel dissatisfied Garden Motors, 220 Wesley Avewith their old car and head to the auto showrooms to buy a new one. The nue: “For 1956—THE BIG MERCURY… beautiful advertisements in the local LOOKS BIG…FEELS BIG…ACTS BIG… newspapers reveal creative copy.

IS BIG! THE BIG BUY FOR 1956.”

Druck Motor Company, 1158 Palmer Chevrolet and Oldsmobile, Asbury Avenue: “Cadillac—Beyond 1117 Asbury Avenue: “The hottest feathe Realm of Argument! This is the tures for ’56 are in the new Chevrolet.

Chevrolet never has it so good for you before…and no other car in its field even comes close.”

Wallace Brothers, 9th Street and Simpson Avenue: “New Sweep-ahead styling; New Sizzle to match. What you Mercury see pictured here is Buick for 1956—and from the gleam of that “V” grille to the sassy slant of the tail fins, you can see it has no equal for gorgeous good looks.”

Branin and Konschak, 930 Asbury Avenue: “New ’56 Dodge Coronel Invades LowPrice Field! Come share the rewards of the great Dodge success! Here’s the only fullsize, full-style, full-fashion KING SIZE CAR to invade the low-price field with a full line of body styles!”

Bishop Motor Sales, 12th Street and Asbury Avenue: “HERE TODAY! America’s Finest Medium-Priced Car. The New 1956 Clipper built by Packard craftmen. Now with famous TORSION-LEV!EL RIDE!”

Chill Out at the Library

Roy A. Mengel and Son, 112 Central Avenue: “It’s Clear tne Deck Time at your STUDEBAKER DEALER! Astounding low price on all models! Best deals in town! Highest trade-ins ever!

Special financing! Greatest new car values ever offered!”

City Motors, 4800 Asbury Avenue: “THE FORWORD LOOK ’56—PLYMOUTH FURY AND CHRYSER 300B SETS THE PACE!” H. C. Amos, 34th Street and West Avenue: “American Motors presents the all-new, the most exciting, allnew car to hit the market in the last 17 years. THE ALL-AMERICAN ’56 RAMBLER.” Sixty-five years later, the ten Ocean City car dealers are gone along with the excitement of new model introduction season.

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.

IN-PERSON EDUCATIONAL EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT VIRTUAL PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS FREE DIGITAL CONTENT Visit OceanCityLibrary.org for a complete list of resources, policies, and procedures.

CHECK OUT OUR NEW APP

Visit our website and click “Newsletter Sign Up” for the latest news on our events and programs.

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February 16, 2023

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Varsity Inn legacy lives on with change of ownership

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T

he historic Varsity Inn by a few new staff members. begins a new chapter in “The Varsity Inn is known for its 53-year history after a family, friends and good vibes. We grand re-opening ribbon are so thankful to Keith for selecting my family to lead the next chapter in cutting on Friday, Feb. 10. the Varsity Inn’s long and continuing The ceremony recognized the retirement of long-time owner Keith history,” said new owner Chris McSymonds and transition to new ownCarthy. “After 53 memorable years, ers, Chris and Marsha McCarthy. great days still start here.”

Bill McMahon, president of the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, recognized Symonds for his 53 years of service to the Ocean City community by giving him a ceremonial “piece of the boardwalk.”

Council President Pete Madden, Council Vice President Karen Bergman, Councilman Terry Crowley, Jody The ribbon is cut in the front of the Varsity Inn during Levchuk, Tomaso Rotondi, a ceremony led by Ocean City Regional Chamber of and Tony Policini were all on Commerce President Bill McMahon, as former and hand for the celebration. new owners (Keith and Dawn Symonds, and Chris “From the College Inn and Marsha McCarthy) and members of Ocean City, days on the Boardwalk City Council and Varsity Inn staff look on. to the Varsity Inn on 8th Street, the Symonds family has been The Varsity Inn building was built involved in the Ocean City commuin 1905 and has served as a Methodist nity since the 1960s,” said Symonds. retreat, a one room schoolhouse, The “I selected a family to continue my Florida Inn, and a private residence. family's Varsity Inn traditions, from In 1969, the Symonds Family purmy parents, my Aunt Helen to me, chased the property and the Varsity including my baked tomato soup.”

Inn Restaurant celebrated its first Since the Symonds family’s first summer in 1970. The Varsity Inn was summer of ownership in 1970, the renovated in 2006, and again in early historic building has served many 2023. The Varsity Inn is known for its generations of Ocean City locals and caring service, great American food visitors alike. The McCarthy family and local favorites, like Baked Jersey Tomato Soup. is committed to the preservation of both Symonds’ legacy and the For more information regarding Varsity’s beloved traditions. Veteran the Varsity Inn´s next chapter, please Varsity kitchen and servers are joined visit varsityinnocnj.org

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February 16, 2023

Who is Mikal Joedon?

Somers Paddy Crawl returns to town

Views from the Shore

By Brian Cahill

I

n early March 2020, there was a mysterious buzz felt around the Somers Point bar scene.

The inaugural Somers Paddy Crawl was about a week away, and rumor had it there would be a “Master Crawler” leading the crowds from bar to bar making sure everyone had a great time along the way.

The “Master Crawler’s” name?

Mikal Joedon.

As the Somers Paddy Crawl began March 7, 2020, chatter could be heard from the bar stools at Gregory’s to the decorative taps at Josie Kelly’s all about this peculiar fellow. What would he look like? What type of accent did he have? How many wings at Charlie’s would he eat?

As the day went on, and dusk turned to dark, the crawlers kept looking and asking questions, but they never got answers. Mikal Joedon disappeared into the night, like the sounds of music and laughter off the deck of Caroline’s.

February 16, 2023

Fast forward three years and one pandemic later, the Somers Paddy Crawl is back and the talk of Mikal is sure to follow. Will our mysterious friend make an appearance?

Well, the answer is yes….and no.

While his love of the Somers Paddy Crawl was real, Mikal Joedon was not. He was a social media creation of event organizers Joe Molineaux, Ed Gaguski, and Don Hoover. The character’s surname was a combination of their firsts (Jo-eddon), and their wives’ first names morphed into Mikal. While Joedon won’t be seen this year, his spirit is surely alive in Joe, Ed and Don. “We wanted to have fun and bring attention to the event, so we created ‘Master Crawler’ Mikal Joedon, an international man of mystery who loves Somers Point,” Molineaux told me with a smile. “We had no idea that Mikal would take off like he did.

People really enjoyed the character and social media brought him to life.

Looking back, I know I overheard a few conversations from crawlers who

claimed to have met him that day. It was a lot of fun.”

The Somers Paddy Crawl will be held on Saturday, March 4, from 12 noon – 5 pm. While Joedon won’t be the marketing hook this time, Molineaux and his team have plenty planned for the day. In addition to the return of Charlie’s, Caroline's, Gregory's, and Josie Kelly's, the event now includes Somers Point Fire Company #2, the American Legion in Somers Point, the Somers Point V.F.W. and Somers Point Brewing Company.

Crawlers will have access to non-stop Jitney service to and from each of these locations throughout the event.

Tickets are on sale now for $30, which includes continuous hop-on hop-off Jitney access, an event t-shirt, swag bag, and food & beverage specials from participating locations. $3 from every ticket sold benefits the Community Food Bank of New Jersey Southern Branch.

The Somers Paddy Crawl is sponsored by the Somers Point Business Association.

For tickets and more information, visit the Somers Paddy Crawl 2023 event page on Facebook.

During the event, Joe ask that Crawlers stay true to the event’s mantra of "All Craig, No Arses." (translation: have fun and enjoy yourself but don’t adversely affect the enjoyment of others.) And if you happen to run into Mr. Joedon, tell him I said hello.

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.

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T

Pre-Super Bowl party raises $10,000 for scholarships

he Chief Arthur R. Brown, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Foundation’s 31st Annual Super Bowl Pre-Party, hosted by Chris Brown, took place on Super Bowl Sunday. Hundreds turned out at Dock’s Oyster House in Atlantic City. More than $10,000 was raised this year. Proceeds benefit the Foundation that awards scholarships and supports local non-profit organizations.

The Foundation was established in 1992 in honor of Arthur R. Brown, Jr., former Chief of the Atlantic City Beach Patrol. The goal of the Foundation is to provide scholarship tuition and other assistance to deserving local individuals and organizations. The scholarship recipients are selected based upon scholastic achievement and demonstrated financial need. The Foundation expanded in 1995 to honor William D. Fox, a former Atlantic City lifeguard and police officer, who passed away in 1994. In 1999, the Foundation expanded to honor the memory of Samuel "Sonny" Schwartz by donating to the "Dorrington" Hockey

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Foundation and Gilda's Club. In 2005, the Foundation expanded again to honor the memory of Officer Thomas J. McMeekin of the Atlantic City Police Department, who died in the line of duty. Tom was also a former lifeguard. To date, through the generosity of the local community, the

Foundation has awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships and financial aid to individuals in the South Jersey community.

Donations have also been made to the SPCA, Boys & Girls Club of AC, Vest-A-Cop, Hackney Swim, Atlantic Co. Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans, Dorrington Ice Hockey Foundation and the A.C.B.P Classic boat races.

February 16, 2023

Lose weight with cucumbers

GOOD TIMES THAT KICK AXE

1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves 1 tablespoon of sherry vinegar ● 2 teaspoons of olive oil ● Salt ● Ground black pepper Directions: In a large bowl, combine cucumber, oranges, oranges, mint, vinegar and oil. Toss to combine.

Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

This recipe serves 2. ● ●

Nutrition

By Nancy Adler

C

ucumbers contain some of the top health benefits.

They are high in nutrients and contain powerful antioxidants. They promote hydration. Cucumbers are a diuretic, so they clean out toxins from the body. Since they are a diuretic, cucumbers promote weight loss and lower blood pressure.

Cucumbers are diabetics' friends as they help to lower blood sugar levels.

People can also promote regularity by enjoying cucumbers every day.

Cucumbers are extremely low in calories and zero fat. They are made of 95% water and have minerals and

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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

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nutrients like potassium, magnesium, silica, and vitamins K and C. They also help boost metabolism! They have been known for decades for their anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin, soothing properties for digestion and other therapeutic uses.

You may find this recipe in my cookbook, “Nancy’s Recipes for Life,” available at my Linwood office location and Capellas Oil and Vinegar Store in Ocean City.

Cucumber Salad with Oranges and Mint

Ingredients: ● 1 English cucumber, sliced into rounds ● 1 12 ounce can of mandarin oranges, drained

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Takeout recipes made from home

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

L

et’s get real. Cooking after a long day of working is hard.

It’s cold and dark outside, and all you’re craving is something comforting and easy.

If you are like me in the winter, Doordash has become your new best friend. With only a couple of clicks, your dream meal is delivered to your home. Albeit, $30 has been drained from your bank account.

Food delivery feels convenient and fun. However, like any vice, too much of it can impact your health and well-being. Save your money and your digestive system by challenging yourself to make your favorite meals from home.

Being your own restaurant will save you money, improve your health and help you connect more with your loved ones. I’m not saying it will be easy, but perhaps it will be worth it.

Here are four recipes for your favorite takeout foods to make from home:

Over 50Years of Goodness

Garlic Parmesan Fries

Ingredients: ● 10 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch shoestring fries ● 3 cups of canola or peanut oil ● 2 cups of grated Parmesan cheese ● 1 teaspoon of truffle extract ● 7 cloves of garlic, crushed ● 4 sprigs of parsley, chopped finely ● Salt ● Pepper Clean and prep all the potatoes.

Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat until it reaches 350 degrees.

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Prepare the seasoning by combining cheese, truffle extract, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper, and set to the side.

Lightly dab the fries with a paper towel to absorb excess fluid, then place them into the pot of oil.

The fries will cook for about four minutes. Remove fries from the oil when brown, crisp and fragrant. Place on a cooling rack.

While the fries are still hot, toss them in a bowl with the seasoning and let them cool.

Enjoy with preferred condiments.

Stuffed Blue Cheese Burgers

Ingredients: ● ½ large sweet onion, diced ● 2 tablespoons of water ● ¼ cup of crumbled blue cheese ● ¼ cup of sour cream ● 4 buns ● 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs ● 1 pound of ground beef ● 4 lettuce leaves ● 4 thick slices of tomato Combine beef, breadcrumbs, water and onion in a large bowl. Divide the mixture into eight half-inch patties. Spoon a tablespoon of blue cheese into the center of each patty, fully surrounded with meat mixture.

Heat a grill with cooking spray.

Grill each burger for four minutes on each side.

Spread a spoonful of sour cream on each bun. Add tomato and lettuce.

Top with burger and enjoy warm.

aside in a bowl of ice water when fully cooked.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Place chicken on a sheet pan with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-30 minutes until fully cooked at the deepest point.

Add oil to a wok and let heat for about a minute, then add red bell pepper, carrots, bean sprouts, cilantro, sesame oil, fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, rice vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, and eggs. Scramble and toss in noodles, as well as cooked, shredded chicken.

Plate and top with red pepper flakes and peanuts. Enjoy!

Chicken Pad Thai

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Ingredients: ● 10 ounces of rice noodles ● 1 pound of boneless chicken breast ● ¼ cup of brown sugar ● 1 tablespoon of lime juice ● ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce ● 5 green onions, minced ● 1 tablespoon of fish sauce ● 3 large eggs ● 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks ● 2 cups of bean sprouts ● 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar ● 1 red bell pepper, cut into ¼-inch strips ● 3 cloves of garlic, crushed ● 2 tablespoons of canola oil ● ¼ cup of cilantro, chopped ● ½ cup of chopped, unsalted peanuts ● 1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes ● 1 teaspoon of sesame oil Prepare noodles according to the directions on the package. Set

Ingredients: 8 ounces of cream cheese ● 14 ounces of drained, canned artichoke hearts, quartered ● ½ cup of parmesan cheese, grated ● ¼ cup of mayonnaise ● ¼ cup of sour cream ● ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded ● 6 ounces of frozen spinach, thawed and drained ● 2 teaspoons of garlic powder ● Salt ● Pepper Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the ingredients except the mozzarella.

Place the dip in a large baking dish and top with mozzarella. Bake for 20 minutes until the dip is melty and warm.

Serve warm with crackers, baguettes or veggies. ●

February 16, 2023

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Local author releases Volume II of his memoir, 'I am S.T.R.O.N.G.E.R'

By Krystle J Bailey

I

Am S.T.R.O.N.G.E.R., written

by Kyle Austin, is celebrated as “amazing,” “genuine,” and “honest.”

One reader describes the 2022 memoir as “a great account of a young black man’s journey, navigating his life despite his adversity and setbacks.”

Kyle Austin of Atlantic City is now a successful personal trainer and author. Growing up, however, was an entirely different story. Facing homelessness at a young age, Kyle is no stranger to life’s struggles and darkness. The Pleasantville, New Jersey native has faced extraordinarily difficult circumstances throughout his life, from poverty and bullying to addiction and heartache. In spite of the trials and setbacks, Kyle has continued to persevere.

The unique format featured in I Am S.T.R.O.N.G.E.R. offers a conversational tone that breaks down big subjects into easily digestible chapters. In the book, Kyle has a conversation with himself in the mirror.

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The back-and-forth dialogue gives a glimpse into the heart and mind of Kyle Austin, the 35-year-old who quietly faced the cruelest sides of life as an adolescent.

“When I decided I wanted to tell my story, I wanted to make it simple for people to understand,” explains Austin. “I wanted it to be an easy read that was almost like a therapy session with myself in the mirror.”

Through the self-therapy session,

Kyle reveals stories and experiences that he kept to himself for decades, from eviction notices at home to being bullied consistently throughout grade school. There is hope, though, as Kyle shares pivotal moments that helped him grow into the man that he is today. As the story transitions from childhood to young adulthood, the mirror version of Kyle dives deeper into each story, shining light into dark situations and further unpacking the feelings layered within the chapters. Kyle Austin learned to turn his pain into purpose and now spends his days helping others mentally, physically, and emotionally both as a personal trainer and a motivational author.

Fans of the book are highly anticipating Volume two of I Am ST.R.O.N.G.E.R. The next book takes the story further into Kyle’s adult life and the journey that led him to become the inspirational figure that

he is today. On February 18th, 2023, author Kyle Austin will be hosting a Sip and Sign book release party for Volume 2 of his story. Everyone is invited to enjoy a live DJ, food, author signings, and more at The Compound, located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. Both volumes of I Am S.T.R.O.N.G.E.R. will be available for purchase at the event.

Event details: February 18, 12:004:00 pm, 2547 Fire Rd, EHT Keep up with Kyle Austin and upcoming book events on Instagram @ iam_s.t.r.o.n.g.e.r.

February 16, 2023

Senior Moments

...When nothing else will do!!!

Atlantic City Memories

Charles P. Eberson

A Senior’s Observations, Opinions and Rantings

A

tlantic City, “The World’s Famous Playground” as it was known holds great memories for me growing up. We have seen photos of the Atlantic City boardwalk of the 30’s and 40’s packed with people decked out in their finest clothing, but my years were more in the 50’s and 60’s. My parents would dress my brother and I up in monogrammed blazers sewn by my grandfather, a tailor in London. Our outfits would be topped off with brimmed hats. My father wore a long overcoat also sewn by my grandfather (which I still have) and his brimmed hat. My mother wore an outfit that she made herself also topped off with a tasteful hat. We walked the boards, went on rides, and fed the pigeons with peanuts purchased at Planters Peanuts. In the summers, my father would take me up to Captain Starns and we would go on a half day fishing trip. Whether we caught fish or not, it was always exciting to see Atlantic City slip over the horizon and be out of sight of any land. Sometimes our family would take a sightseeing boat out of Captain Starns or ride the Miss Atlantic City speedboat just off the coast. As I got older, my friends and I would hop a jitney for ten cents and ride up to Atlantic City with just a few dollars in our pockets. Sometimes we would catch a movie at the Embassy or Beach theaters sitting in the balcony if available and occasionally pitched a few kernels of popcorn over the railing.

With the Central Pier, Million Dollar Pier and Steeplechase Pier, there was never a shortage of things to do. Sometimes we would just spend a day at the Steel Pier beginning with the General Motors exhibit where the latest cars were on display and open to sit inside. I always gravitated to the high-performance cars with the “4 on the floor” stick shifts. After stomping the clutch and ripping through the gears numerous times, I often wondered if transmissions had to be replaced after the exhibits were over. On the pier were numerous exhibits, movies, games and water shows including high divers, the world famous diving horse and the diving bell which was a favorite. We never

February 16, 2023

saw anything except murky water but the rapid rise to the surface was the attraction for us. We always had a full day in Atlantic City often finishing it off with a Taylor Pork Roll sandwich. Of course, with no cell phones and even with pay phones, there was never the need to call home and assure our parents that we were okay aside from the mischief we would often got into. Like the time in our mid-teens that our parents were summoned to the St. Charles Hotel at 1 a.m. in the morning. Some girls waved to us from their rooms and that was all it took for the group of us to run past the front desk ignore the yelling from the manager and take to the stairs with him in close pursuit. He caught the one closest to him and our friend screamed like he had his foot caught in a snare which propelled us even further up the staircase. He folded like a cheap suit, gave up our names and parents’ phone numbers who were waiting for us in the lobby. I didn’t see my friends for a week. Atlantic City has changed and it is my hope that young people can still go uptown, walk the boardwalk, go on the piers and make memories of their own in the World’s Greatest Playground.

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New York based artist finds his inspiration in Egg Harbor Township

By Krystle J Bailey

J

erry Atkins, an artist and real estate investor from New York, has spent the last 30+ years creating minimalist bronze sculptures in his secluded studio in Egg Harbor Township. Four days each week, Jerry and his wife Linda travel to EHT, where they own 140 acres of land that they’ve dedicated to conservation purposes.

Originally drawn to Atlantic County for the casinos, Jerry Atkins is a former psychiatrist and lifelong artist. Since his first sculpting exhibition in 1970, Jerry has expanded his portfolio to include deeply insightful pieces about the grim nature of the human experience. His perception of the mind, in combination with his thoughts about original sin and human nature, inspires pieces that portray mankind’s never-ending struggle to make sense of the world.

There are a few sculptures that embody a sense of hope and love, including Atkins’ piece of a mother nursing her infant child. Though, most of his other pieces represent a sense of sadness or desperation.

“We really don’t know why someone

creates art,” shares Atkins when asked about the root of his ideas. “We just know it’s a calling or an impulse that comes from inside of you that pushes you towards making something.”

Atkins was born a descendant of Ashkenazi Jewish immigrants who fled Russia for the United States in 1905. He was raised by his Hungarian immigrant maternal grandparents, neither of whom could hear or speak, and worked in the sweatshops of New York’s Lower East Side.

Throughout his life, Jerry discovered a curiosity about the human psyche, which led him to ultimately receive his psychiatry degree from the New York University School of Medicine.

While in medical school, he began attending pottery classes at a local community center in New York. His art is a representation of these two interests, as each piece reflects a darker part of the human mind.

Jerry’s studio, which overlooks the Egg Harbor River and is surrounded by trees and “whispering woods,” serves as a reclusive opportunity for creation.

Jerry and his wife Linda, who spends her time as a bird watcher, escape the

noise of New York City every weekend to relish in the sanctuary they’ve created in Egg Harbor Township. The 140 acres where Atkins has his studio has been turned into a nature preserve and belongs to the Keep Conservation Foundation.

While no longer serving as a medical professional in the psychiatry field, Atkins has built a commercial real estate portfolio that sustains his lifestyle and offers him the opportunity to spend most of his time sculpting.

On Jerry’s website, he describes his artistic inspiration, stating, “My goal

as an artist is for others to perceive and ponder my work, and ultimately comprehend what I initially set out to express, from sketch to cast. Everything I create comes from a deep need to express something important to me - whatever that may be at the moment.”

Recent projects from Atkins include a sculpture that represented the sadness he felt when his dog died.

As he ages, Atkins explains that many of his pieces relate to the end of life, including a broken wheelchair that is intended to be a metaphor for old age.

While many of his shows take place in cities such as New York and Washington D.C., the magic of it all happens right here in South Jersey on a tucked-away piece of land where birds are abundant, the woods whisper, and Jerry can be found covered in clay.

“To me, the pine barrens are just beautiful; I like the way they feel” shares Atkins. “Linda and I both love it here.”

For more information about Jerry’s work and upcoming shows, including his next gallery in New York from March 4-24, visit www.jerryatkins.com.

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February 16, 2023

Traditional retirement may not work

By Eric Reich

I

heard Mitch Anthony, founder and president of Advisor Insights Inc., speak at a retirement conference a few years ago, and he said “retirement doesn’t work.” He calls retirement an “artificial finish line." It was an industrial age construct for people who worked in an industrial age environment. He observed that leisure has little meaning outside of work. A vacation is valuable because you are taking a break from work, but we were never meant for a perpetual life of leisure. Instead, a balance between work and leisure should be the goal. According to Anthony, “work is something that brings value to others and meaning to you”.

This really resonated with me.

Having spent 25 years in this industry working as a retirement specialist, I personally don’t have any desire to retire. Look at Warren Buffet. He is

92 years old, and his business partner Charlie Munger is 98! Based on their ages and published net worth, clearly these men can afford to retire. You may feel the same way about wanting to keep working, or if you are a pre-retiree, you may be trying to figure out the next step. In fact, I’m often asked, “do you think I should retire early?” While there is no way for me to answer that for you, I’d say the majority of clients I work with, who do retire early, later wish they would have worked a few more years.

In fact, even though more than 2 million* people retired during the first 18 months of the pandemic, many are returning to work. And it’s not just due to financial reasons. A 2022 Joblist survey indicated that only 27% of those “quietly” returning to work were doing so because they needed the money and another 21% were afraid that inflation would erode their retirement funds. 60% of the retirees surveyed indicated they were going back to work because they wanted something to do. The data also showed that more than half of those returning to work were happy to do so.

This was the case even before the pandemic. In a 2017 Rand Corp study, when retirees were asked what they

missed the most about pre-retirement life, surprisingly the answer was not the income. The most popular answer among retirees was the work itself, and more specifically, working with their former colleagues. As human beings, we are innately social creatures, and retirement has often been shown to lead to increased isolation, which has been shown to affect our health.

So what should pre-retirees consider before they retire? I would ask the following: What observations have you made watching other retirees? or Whose retirement do you want to model? In addition, what activities, besides a long “to do” list, will replace your work schedule? You’ve spent 40+ years working 40 hours a week and now you’re about to stop completely.

You must find a way to fill a large percentage of that time. One might consider working part-time in retirement or taking up a completely new career.

I find the real issue for pre-retirees is that they are simply burnt out from doing the same job for a really long time. Often, a complete change brings renewed energy, which can lead to many years of enjoyable work. All of this points to making sure you have a sense of purpose no matter what age you decide to retire.

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February 16, 2023

*Forbes.com. 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.

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Celebrate Mardi Gras on Tennessee Avenue in AC

Going Places with Dina Guzzardo

M

ardi Gras, the carnival season that precedes the Christian observance of Lent, is an annual event that is traditionally celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The festivities begin in January and culminate on Mardi Gras day with a grand parade that showcases extravagant floats and live jazz music.

However, this year, residents of Atlantic City can also experience the excitement and revelry of Mardi Gras without having to travel to Louisiana.

Several bars and restaurants on Tennessee Avenue are putting on events to commemorate the carnival, and the party is set to be just as vibrant and lively as the celebrations in New Orleans.

The Tennessee Avenue Mardi Gras celebration promises a fun-filled day of live music, delicious food, and specialty cocktails. Visitors can sample traditional Mardi Gras drinks such as Hand Grenades and Hurricanes, which are typically made extra strong, at the Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall. The boozy King Cake Shake, a dessert-like drink that combines coffee cake, cinnamon roll, fresh fruit, and cream cheese, is also a must-try.

Foodies will delight in the authen-

tic Creole cuisine that will be served at the event, including seafood jambalaya, gumbo, and Po Boy sandwiches. Cuzzie’s Pizzeria and Kitchen will be serving up some Mardi Gras specials, such as the Sicilian-American Muffuletta sandwich, which is made up of layers of thinly sliced salami, ham, mortadella, and olive spread. They will also offer a crayfish pizza, a delicacy that is popular in New Orleans and is said to taste like lobster.

For those who love a good cocktail, Rhythm and Spirits are renowned locally for their expertly crafted cocktails. They will be serving up Mardi Gras favorites such as the Sazerac, a whiskey-based drink that features

bitters and absinthe, as well as the Gin Fizz, Grasshopper, La Louisiane, and Vieux Carré. These sophisticated New Orleans cocktails will be perfectly paired with fresh charbroiled oysters, and live jazz music will set the mood for the evening.

Finally, Bar 32 will be bringing the world-famous Café Du Monde Beignets to the celebration. These delicious, sweet, deep-fried pastries are generously sprinkled with powdered sugar, making them a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Bar 32 will also serve NOLA milk punch with chocolate shavings and a sweet grasshopper cocktail, perfect for those who have a sweet tooth.

The Tennessee Avenue Mardi Gras

celebration promises to be a fun day party for residents of Atlantic City, and visitors won't want to miss out on the celebrations. With an array of food, drinks, and live music, visitors will feel transported to the center of the French Quarter in New Orleans, and the festivities are sure to be just as exciting and vibrant as the celebrations down south.

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

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At Reich Asset Management, we help you have an enjoyable retirement. As your guide, we want to help you reach your goals and believe in building a long-term relationship that stands the test of time. We are committed to provide you with leading edge financial advice supported by a team and the systems to deliver consistently on that promise.

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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. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.

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Wine 101: What are tannins?

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annins’ is a wine term I am frequently asked to explain to folks who come into the store. I’ve found that even wine enthusiasts who have enjoyed wine for many years find the term to be confusing. So what are tannins? Let’s take a deeper dive.

Scientifically speaking, tannins are a phenolic compound. According to sciencedirect.com, phenolic compounds are among the most common chemicals found in many plants throughout the world. They are one of the most significant secondary metabolites (the most important components behind the health benefits and medicinal properties of the plants) and are largely responsible for the antioxidant attributed to many so called “superfoods.”

How do tannins get into the wines that we drink? Tannins are present in the skins of wine grapes. After harvesting the grapes, the winemaking process continues with what is commonly called the crushing of the grapes. I know we all just had an image of Lucille Ball stomping grapes in a gigantic barrel in Italy, right? In modern winemaking, Lucille stays on the sidelines as crushing is accomplished by a machine that very gently squeezes the grapes enough to separate the juice, referred to as ‘must’ in wine-speak, from the skins, seeds, and stems, called ‘pomace’. The overwhelming majority of wine grapes, regardless of whether they are red or white grapes, have clear juice. Without the skins having contact with the juice during fermentation, most all wines would be white. In other words, if the winemaker’s goal is to produce a white wine, he or she removes the lees before the juice continues on to fermentation. The exception are grapes referred to as Teinturier grapes, such as one of my favorites, Alicante Bouschet from Portugal. Treat yourself and try the Cartuxa E’vora Tinto Reseva 2016. This outstanding red wine from the Alentejo region of Portugal is 70% Alicante Bouschet and 30% Aragonez and

February 16, 2023

the best example of a wine made from Teinturier grapes I have experienced.

If a red wine is the objective, the ‘must’ and the ‘pomace’ remain in contact in a process called maceration. Simply stated, maceration is a soaking process where the tannins are gradually transferred from the skins to the juice. The juice will take on the color, the flavor, and the antioxidant qualities discussed above. The duration of maceration depends on how tannic the winemaker wants the wine to be. For most red wines, maceration can be as short as a week or two, and as long as a month or so. In general, the longer the skins have contact with the juice, the higher the concentration of tannins. The thickness of the grape skin can also play a part in this.

It is all part of the science and artistry of winemaking. As you may have guessed, rosé wine is accomplished by allowing the skins to macerate for a very short time in the juice, resulting in the familiar pink color.

In addition to color, tannins affect wine in two significant ways by adding to the flavor and mouthfeel of the wine.

Prior to fermentation, wine grape juice is sweet. In fermentation, yeast consumes much of the sugar and turns it into alcohol and carbon dioxide. The sugar that remains is called residual sugar and is a major determinant in how sweet or dry the wine is. Tannins have a slightly bitter taste that, together with what residual sugar remains, adds to the complexity of red wine. Bitterness may not sound appealing, but think of how teas, coffees, and dark chocolates have significant bitter components to the taste but are still considered delicious by many. It is the same for wines. Finally, tannins give wine an astringent effect, commonly referred to as dryness. As mentioned, tannins are a phenolic compound, which bind proteins.

The saliva on your tongue and in your mouth is full of proteins that the tannins bind, making your tongue, gums and pallet feel dry. This is why high-tannin wines pair well with steak. The tannic effect counters the fattiness of the meat.

If you would like to experience the tannic effect of wine for yourself, buy a

bottle of Pinot Noir (a relatively low-tannin red wine), a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon (a relatively high-tannin wine), and a bottle of Tannat. Tannat is from Uruguay and is alleged to be one of the most tannic wines in the world (winefolly.com). A couple Pinot Noir options to consider would be the L. Tramier & Fils Pinot Noir Reserve from France, or the Montinore Estate Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley, Oregon.

For the Cabernet Sauvignon, how about a Cab-based blend from Bordeaux, such as the Chateau Carbonneau La Verrie’re, or the Daou Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles, California. For a Tannat, try the Garzon Single Vineyard Tannat. You will not regret it. Pour a tasting of each the three varietals and observe them side-byside. Notice the variation in the darkness and the opacity of the wine from the least to the most tannic. Take a couple sips of each in order of least to most tannic and notice the astringent effect of the more tannic wines. And, of course, enjoy the wine!

Another common question related to tannins is whether or not they cause headaches. According to Harvard Health Publishing Online, maybe, for those who are particularly sensitive to tannins, but for the majority, no. The likely suspect for most is the alcohol. Alcohol can cause blood vessels to dilate, thus causing headaches. If you are someone who gets headaches when drinking red wine, drink a glass of water for each glass of wine. For most this will help alleviate the problem.

I hope this short discussion has given you a bit more understanding of this complicated wine term. As always, if you have questions or comments, contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com or stop the Somers Point store. Until next time, Happy Wining!

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

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February 16, 2023

47

The in-law suite life

Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

A

t first glance, multi-generational living arrangements may seem unusual, but they were once the rule, not the exception.

In late 19th-century America, most elderly parents and grandparents lived with their children. By the 20th century, this trend steadily declined, hitting a low of about 12 percent of the population in 1980 as per the U.S. Census.

What's old is new again, however, as multi-generational living is a booming home trend.

In sheer numbers, the 64 million Americans living in such homes in 2016 (20 percent of the country) was the most ever in U.S. history, making in-law suites a desirable home renovation in many ways for you, your family and potential future buyers,

48

What exactly does multigenerational mean? It can have a variety of definitions depending on whom you ask, but the U.S. Census defines multi-generational as three or more generations living at a residence. This is usually grandparents, their children, and their grandchildren.

Why people opt for this living arrangement is a bit more complex. Sometimes an elderly parent is alone and can no longer take care of themselves and moves in with their child's family for companionship and care.

At other times it can be a financial choice; for example, co-habitating can be a much more cost-effective option than a nursing home. In addition, more and more twenty and thirty somethings are opting to live with or move back in with their parents to focus on their careers or save money.

The benefits are tangible. Grandparents get to see their grandkids daily and vice versa, leading to more family bonding and possibly for the former, less loneliness and more security.

Parents potentially have a live-in babysitter. Finances or chores can

be shared. More family members visit who normally wouldn't.

Multiple generations have multiple needs. Of course, such living conditions often require adjustments, both from the families and the houses themselves, especially when it comes to creating an in-law suite.

The existing home needs to be renovated or expanded in order to give the new resident(s) adequate space, comfort and privacy while also not disrupting the lives of those currently living there.

The most sought-after features Having a living room area, bedroom and a private bathroom is a must. Also, an additional kitchen and laundry room is important as well in order to offer the feeling of an independent living space.

A private entrance is also helpful considering it would include some sort of outdoor option such as a porch or deck overlooking the backyard where the grandkids play.

These considerations definitely help the person that's going to occupy the space feel like it's their own.

Consult a professional For all of the positives of expanding your home, there are also some relatively common obstacles to overcome.

Compliance. In addition to assuring that your project meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards for older Americans, you'll need to get zoning and variance permission from your city or your township for any in-law suite addition, which can make the desired outcomes tricky.

Seamlessness. In-law suites are often added to older homes, upwards of 50 to 100 years old. As you can imagine, making the new addition look like it's always been there, which is usually the goal, can be challenging, but most builders are up for the challenge.

Who's the boss? Probably the most challenging part of an in-law suite project is that there are two different sets of opinions like Grand-

pop, who is paying for his in-law suite and putting it on his son's house. To prevent problems, keep an open dialog from the start. Sit down and establish ground rules for everything, from big issues such as finances or boundaries, to small details such as color choices.

Keep your eye on the ROI. And, finally, there's the cost. As you can imagine, an in-law suite project can get rather pricey. Depending on where you live, the size, and the amenities, it can cost $125,000 or more for a typical 500-1,000-square-foot addition. That said, you can lower the cost significantly by renovating an existing space such as a basement or a garage, or by choosing fewer highend materials for things like flooring.

In addition, if you focus on the long term, you can reap the financial benefits. If you decide to sell someday, your home will be more attractive to buyers because of the added square footage, regardless of whether the buyer makes use of the space as part of the home, as an in-law suite or even as a rental property.

Multi-generational living isn't for everyone, and it does require an adjustment period for all involved.

However, if you choose to have such a home arrangement, it's easy to bask in the positives, including more time together as a family, a possible at-home babysitter for parents, money-saving possibilities and a good return on investment. The best benefit of all? You're opening up your home for a loved one when he or she needs it the most.

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!"

February 16, 2023

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Flogging Molly, Vanessa Collier, Tony Marts Cares, Elephant Talk Indie Music Festival turned out to be a nice surprise,” says King. “We kind of liked the way the album flowed, with each song running into each other.

We were back working with Steve Albini (prolific indie artist/recording Tune In, Turn On engineer/music journalist

By Doug Deutsch formerly with Big Black, Rapeman and Flour; currently with Shellac), ow do bands pick their names? That immediateand we wanted to record ly came to mind when I ‘Drunken Lullabies’ and ‘What’s Left of the Flag’ Flogging Molly. Photo by Katie Hovland first heard the moniker Flogging Molly, so we asked FM’s volive in the studio where it calist/front-man Dave King about it. all began. The idea of an EP wasn’t Don’t miss the Tony Mart Cares "We used to play there (Molly in our minds, but it turned out to be party at Josie Kelly‘s in Somers a nice surprise.”

Point, Friday, March 3. Theevent Malone’s, popular nightclub in Hollywood, Calif) every Monday night, No strangers to the Jersey Shore, is free, with a $10 donation for reand we felt like we were flogging it to King says, “Atlantic City is always served seating. Entitled “Tony Mart fun, and is unique in its own way; death, so we called the band Flogging Cares for Mark Pfeffer,” the goal is it’s a great setting for having fun.

Molly," said King. to generate funds to produce a reThe Irish-American, seven-piece We’re really looking forward to the cording of music originally written Celtic punk band[2] formed in Los Sound Waves show on the 24th.” Aland recorded by Mark Pfeffer, “one so performing: Anti-Flag and Skinny Angeles in 1995; they’ve been going of the finest human beings to ever strong and touring regularly since, Lister. 8pm. Tickets/info: https:// practice law and walk the face of with a new EP, “’Til The Anarchy’s www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com/ the Earth,” says the press release.

Restored,” just released. “The idea event-calendar#d_venue=Sound%20 Joining “Big Bob“ Ernano from the of an EP wasn’t in our minds, but it Waves.

Tony Mart All-Stars that evening: Singer/songwriter Danny Eyer, saxophonist Howard Isaacson; Musical Director of the Tony Mart Allstars, Rich “Megahurtz“ Kurtz; Bob Coulon (Dane Anthony Band) and special guest drummer, Bob Kimmel from area band red, who will be sitting in for “Old-School“ Jimmy Glenn. Tickets/info: http://www.tonymart.com/ Tony-Mart-Cares.

Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton continues to present some of the finest live original music in the South Jersey area, with upcoming shows

by Tune In Turn On faves Billy Walton Band, whose new video “I Can’t Tell” is nothing short of awesome, performing their originals there on March 31; and First Lady of Saxophone, multi-award winning blues artist Vanessa Collier, who returns by popular demand to LRMR on May 4. Tickets/info: http://www.lizzierosemusic.com/.

Just Announced: 2023 Elephant Talk Indie Music Festival at Tom’s Farm in Egg Harbor Township, three big days, June 9, 10, and 11, hosted

by Jerry Ryan and Colleen Sumner.

“I wanted to do something away from the whole bar scene this time and do a family-friendly event with more space,” says Ryan in a Facebook post. “We have parking, two stages Visit Our New Location of music, and kids activities lined up.

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information about food and drinks soon, and will also have a ticket link up

by March 1 as well as a few graphic options to share with your friends. Please invite respectful people with great energy, as these events are inclusive and family- friendly. No dogs on the farm bthw. Some of the kids (including my son) aren’t fans. Stay tuned for more details.” The bands lineup thusfar: (Friday) Embers Remain; Pending Light; Valkyrians; Dog Beach; Quasimodos Bride.

(Saturday) - Backyard Boys; Matchaponix; American Religion (David Orant); Jima; Bees!; The Skating Party; The Surf Jerkz; The Grither; William Chip Rishell; Black Rose Rebellion; Loud Love; Bethany Aline; The Arato Brothers; Knomad Nation; The Goons; Castle Black; Second Half Comeback; Khalid Quesada. (Sunday): Clark Cummins Jessica Graae; Adam Lippman Band. All ages. $25 cover includes both days for one price and parking on the farm. Tickets/ Info: https://www.facebook.com/ events/2392934260881629.

Seen/Heard: Attended some great shows locally including Jon Spencer and the HITmakers/The Bobby Lees at Anchor Rock Club; the Goodman Fiske Band at Caesars Mountain Bar and Boardwalk Saloon/Wild Wild West; the always-incredible Amish Outlaws at the Lobby Bar in the Hard Rock Casino; and last week, the threeband tribute Rage Against the ‘90s, also at the Anchor, with a great job by Ryan Cheek (frontman for Know Your Enemy/Rage Against The Machine tribute) on the latter show, packing the house, proving if bands work hard to bring people out, everyone wins!

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.

February 16, 2023

Renowned Author Brings Cape May to Life Through Romance Novels

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

T

wo people falling in love between Victorian mansions on cobblestone streets makes for the perfect beach read. But what if the couple aren’t necessarily….alive?

Literary agent and published author Marlo Berliner incorporated a Cape May ghost story into her paranormal romance series, ‘The Ghost Chronicles.’

In the series, Protagonist Michael Andrews had it all (friends, family and a promising basketball career) until he died in a sudden, out-of-the-blue accident. And now he’s stuck, wandering through the world as a ghost.

When Michael meets Sarah, a young lady who died tragically at Angel of the Sea (a Cape May Bed & Breakfast), sparks fly. Can the two souls join in the afterlife before the demons chase Michael down, wrongfully attempting to drag him to hell?

Berliner grew up spending sum-

mers on Wildwood Crest at her parents’ bungalow, and as she matured, spent more and more time in historic Cape May. In the early 2000s, Berliner and her husband were staying at Angel of Sea awaiting breakfast when she read Sarah’s story.

“According to the story, we realized we were staying in the room the Irish exchange student spent her last

day before falling from the window!” said Berliner.

The story stuck with Berliner, who had experienced a close-call car accident as a senior in high school, which almost ended her life early. Berliner mulled over what would have happened if she died that day, and what it means to lose your life at the start of adulthood, before you ‘find yourself.’

A journalist friend invited Berliner to a romance novel conference, which motivated Berliner to write her ghostly tale as a love story and pursue publication. “No one else has put out a ghost story that’s only about the ghosts,” she said. “It answers questions of what happens in the afterlife rather than taking the perspective of the living interacting with a ghost.”

The Ghost Chronicles are now a three-part series, with the third and final addition expected to be published at some point in the next year or two. She has also published a collection of short stories titled ‘Lessons of Hope and Light.”

Because of her use of the ghost story, Berliner has become close friends with the owners of Angel of the Sea, Theresa Stanton and her late husband, Ron, and their adult sons. “They have been extremely supportive of my work, and the Angel of the Sea has become my home away from home,” said Berliner. “I’ve stayed in almost every room, which is

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a lot because there are 27 of them. I have an open invitation to visit when I please, and sell my book in the parlor.

In fact, they even bought my first case of books!”

an attachment to Cape May and its beauty. I love sitting on the beach and writing in every season.”

The Ghost Chronicles are available for purchase wherever books are sold and locally at the Sunset Beach Gift Shop, Whale’s Tale on Washington Square Mall, and at Angel of the Sea. When she isn’t enjoying Cape May, Berliner lives with her family in Somerset County and works in New York as a literary agent, helping authors get their books published by the major publishers.

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Are you READY TO BUY or SELL YOUR HOME NOW? Since the first book’s publication in 2015, Berliner has accepted the Stantons’ invitation to present The Ghost Chronicles at the Christmas by Candlelight House Tours, a tradition hosted by Cape May MAC in which visitors can explore Victorian inns at yuletide.

The first book in the Ghost Chronicles series has been a #1 best seller on Amazon in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.

Both books have won multiple awards, including the 2016 NJRW Golden Leaf Award for Best First Book, and was considered a finalist in the National Indie Excellence Awards for Young Adult Fiction. The book also received the Literary Classics Seal of Approval, and was awarded a B.R.A.G. Medallion.

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safety and training

New Practice

here are many benefits to using a crate to manage your dog or puppy. Using a crate is not mean. And no, you will not have to keep your dog or puppy in a crate all of the time.

Crate training is a vital part of puppy and dog training for a variety of reasons, the most important being safety. The primary benefit of training your puppy to love being in a crate is to keep them out of trouble.

It's not reasonable to believe you will be able to watch your puppy every minute of the day.

Putting your puppy in the crate when you aren't watching them will prevent them from ingesting something harmful to them.

The average intestinal blockage surgery is no less than $5,000. While you can replace most things destroyed in your home, you can't replace a puppy that has consumed something harmful. And yes, an intestinal obstruction can kill your dog or puppy.

Crating a puppy when they are not being watched will also help with the process of housebreaking. Given the chance to be clean, most puppies will do so by not going to the bathroom in their crate. If you are using a play pen area, remember not to make it large enough where the puppy can use a corner of it as the bathroom.

If you have brought home a rescue or older dog whose habits and temperament you do not know, a crate is a valuable management tool.

Remember when adopting an older dog, the two of you don’t know each other yet so putting them into a crate can provide much-needed time to decompress and will avoid finding out the hard way that they are destructive.

Here are some tips for making crate training easier on both the dog and the human: Make the crate as comfy a place as possible with crate pads and blankets.

Try feeding them an occasional meal in their crate with the door closed.

Give them a yummy bone or treat inside of their crate with the door shut for no reason at all during the day. Do this when you are home so your puppy or dog learns they do not get your attention 24/7.

Reward them with a treat for being settled and relaxed when in their crates.

What you should never do is yell or scream at the puppy when they have been naughty while putting them into the crate. If you need to give them a time out, simply pick them up with zero emotion and no words to put them in the crate. Yelling will send the message that going into the crate is frightening.

Most of the time when a puppy is acting wild, it’s because they need a nap. Also, try not to free them when they are barking and whining unless you feel it might be a potty situation.

If you free a puppy for not being settled, they will learn that demanding and obnoxious behaviors will be rewarded.

The reality is that at some point in your dog's life they will need to be in a crate. Whether at the vet, the groomer or while being boarded, your puppy or dog will need to be confined. Avoid causing your puppy or dog undue stress when they are in these situations by crate training right away at home.

Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining.com or visit fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

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Why shouldn’t you write with a broken pencil?

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Why can’t your nose be 12 inches long?

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56

February 16, 2023

THEME: U.S. PRESIDENTS

SUDOKU Solution on page 58

ACROSS 1. Biased perspective 6. Male sibs 10. Monday Night Football audience 14. Tapiridae representative 15. Rock opera version of "La Bohème" 16. Object of worship 17. Opposite of alpha 18. ____ Spumante 19. Novice 20. *Unanimously elected President 22. Gusto 23. Eggy drink 24. Jig music, pl.

26. Stashed in a hold 30. Penniless 32. Wood turning device 33. Toll payment, e.g.

34. Not slouching 38. Like nay-sayers 39. Of many years 40. Malaria symptom 41. Instagram post 43. River, in Spanish 44. Bell-bottoms bottom 45. Dodge 47. Unexpected 48. The Cat in the Hat's headgear (2 words) 51. Campbell's container 52. International Civil Aviation Organization 53. *President Hayes' first name 60. "Through" in a text?

61. Pelvic bones 62. Plural of #54 Down 63. Andrew Sean Greer's 2018 Pulitzer Prize winner 64. Reverse action 65. Mother-of-pearl 66. *Lake off Ohio, the state known as "the Mother of Presidents" 67. Baseball's "The Say Hey Kid" 68. Navigate

DOWN 1. *Present tense of #26 Across 2. Tibetan priest 3. "Singes" in "La Planète des singes" 4. Nearly 5. Apprentice 6. Name on apple cider vinegar bottle 7. R in R&R 8. Cognizant of 9. "Sophie's Choice" protagonist 10. *F in JFK 11. Bye, to Emmanuel Macron 12. Relating to Scandinavia 13. Casino bandits 21. Sign of assent 25. *Civil Rights Act of 1957 signer 26. Dueler's blow 27. Hyperbolic tangent 28. Football great Graham 29. *Executive Mansion, colloquially (2 words) 30. Misrepresent 31. Make over 33. *One of four presidents to have never been elected 35. "Goodness gracious!"

36. "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" band, The ____ 37. High school student, usually 42. Spermatozoa counterparts 44. Not marathons, pl. (2 words) 46. Central court in domus 47. Certain frat house letters 48. Ownership document 49. Autumn color 50. Zoroaster follower 51. Pandemonium 54. Elbow-wrist connection 55. Not a slob 56. Like certain Stanley 57. A third of thrice 58. Steak choice 59. Whitetail, e.g.

See Solution on Page 58

February 16, 2023

57

Eagles loss: It’s never one thing

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Jeff's Journal

By Jeff Whitaker

I

’m sure we all wish there was a magic bullet or a special button we could push that would guarantee our preferred outcome or success in a given situation. However, the reality is that there isn’t.

I’m not a sports analyst by any means, but I can take a stab at why the Philadelphia Eagles fell short of victory last Sunday. It’s not just one thing. It most likely was a combination. From fumbles to a missed catch (or two or three), from leaving a man open when he should have been covered to even an official call that didn’t go their way, it all added up. The minutes ticked away, and the seconds fell short. Time ran out. So, it wasn’t just one thing that led to the loss. Just as it wasn’t one thing that brought the Eagles to the Super Bowl and gave them an incredible season.

Since I’m always someone who is looking for lessons to learn and analogies to life, here are my takeaways.

For you and me, in our personal and professional lives, it’s never one thing that lands us where we find ourselves.

There is no magic bullet. It’s a series of decisions we make, priorities we lay out, people we hang out with, times when we say yes and times when we choose to say no.

If there is one attribute that best sums up how to succeed, it would be this: consistency. It’s really not the first word you think of when you talk about reaching goals and high achievement.

Usually, it’s words like momentum, hard work, making the right connections, outperforming others and setting specific targets for achievement or a particular outcome. Don’t get me wrong; these are all great contributors to reaching our goals. However, if they are only practiced periodically and not consistently, the outcome we are looking for is not nearly as achievable as we would like.

The question I wrestle with is how to wrap my mind around what to be consistent in and with and what doesn’t matter as much. For what it’s worth, my advice to you (and what I try to follow too) is to determine the goal. Then, I ask myself what consistent traits or practices, if followed, stand the greatest chance of allowing me to see that goal become a reality. In other words, what can I do consistently that will give me the greatest return? Let consistency become your go-to word. Then see if that doesn’t lead to more victories and success.

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

Solutions to pages 57 puzzles. Check yourself!

58

February 16, 2023

Exercise is good for brain health Shore Fit

By Bonnie Dodd-Miller

A

s you get older, it’s normal to notice changes in your brain function. I know I sure have. Perhaps you often misplace your keys or have trouble coming up with the right word in conversation.

Before you assume that you’re developing a serious cognitive health issue, be aware that our brains naturally change with age. They change in size and structure, which impacts how well they work over time.

I won’t get too technical as I am not a brain expert, but what I know is that exercise can benefit you mentally.

On the flip side of exercise is relaxation, which is also important for brain health. What I mean by relaxation is a “structured” relaxation in the form of meditation.

Recently I was part of a challenge that required meditation. I had no idea how meditation worked so I asked a friend about it and she gave me some great tips on meditation. It sure did help me relax and focus.

Concentrate on mindful meditation and breathing exercises every day for 10 minutes. It’s a great way to start your day so carve out a few minutes each day for it. It’s like hitting the reset button.

As the body gets older, one of the best ways to keep it young is to stay physically active. The same is true for the brain.

February 16, 2023

Working out increases a protein called brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is vital for growing and keeping neurons. Again, not to get too technical, but know that this is a good thing. Exercise also helps prevent brain inflammation among other benefits.

Strive for 60 minutes of aerobic workouts, three times per week, and two days of strength training.

The benefits may increase if you mix exercise with other healthy strategies. Try adding a “fun” cognitive challenge like playing sports such as pickleball, which is the latest craze, or dancing, which combines a cardio workout, music, socializing and remembering the steps.

Yoga can also benefit brain health because it combines meditation with movement. You can check off both from your list with yoga because it combines the best of both worlds.

Af ter exercising , choose a brain healthy recovery meal. In fact, a brain healthy diet is even better.

Fish, nuts, olives, fruits and vegetables (green leafy) are considered “brain foods” because they are rich in nutrients, including Vitamin K, lutein, folate and beta carotene, which are all super beneficial to our brains.

Research suggests that these particular foods may help slow cognitive decline. Taking a supplement such as fish oil is also very beneficial.

Physical activity can improve your cognitive health by helping you think, learn, and problem solve. It can improve memory and reduce anxiety.

You don’t have to be a fitness guru to reap the benefits. I recommend five days of it, but any amount of physical activity can help.

Start slowly and work your way up because no matter your age or fitness level, physical activity can help improve sleep, brain health and quality of life. It just makes you feel good, and when you feel good, you live well.

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.

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