More Events March In New Columnists Whitney Ullman & Keith Dawn
Mayors Push Back Against Wind Projects
Hometown Hero Helps Local Kids
The Atlantic City St. Patrick’s Parade will return for the first time since 2019 on Sunday, March 12, 2023. The procession will kick off at 1 p.m. on the Boardwalk at St. James Pl, then will march to Albany Avenue along the Boardwalk.
Interested participants and donors
may email stpatricksparadeac@gmail. com. The Boardwalk vehicle application is due by March 6th. Marchers applications are due by March 10th. The rain date for the parade is Sunday, March 19th.
Local restaurateurs Frank and Joe Dougherty will be this year’s parade Grand Marshals.
the pleasure of interviewing. We’ve met community leaders and networked with folks doing extraordinary things in our community. Each relationship reminds us why we began Shore Local to begin with. Each conversation refuels and inspires us to keep going.
Celebrations are in order, as this edition of Shore Local marks our seventh anniversary of bringing local news and feel-good stories to the Jersey Shore. Looking back, it’s hard to wrap my head around where the time has gone. It feels like yesterday that Bob and I began this “leap of faith” journey.
As I reflect on the last seven years and feel the wide range of emotions, one thought comes to mind: A LOT. Even that is an understatement. Our Shore Local experience has been filled with A LOT of work, emotions, deadlines, writing, edits, production, deliveries, coordinating, networking, and so much more.
Those connections have been the most rewarding part of it all. We have had the honor of meeting some of the most incredible people in South Jersey, from our sponsors to the individuals we’ve had
It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions since day one for Bob and me. Admittedly, the first few months were riddled with anxiety and all the ways things could possibly go wrong. The “what ifs” would keep us up at night as we worried whether or not we would succeed or if anyone would read our hometown publication.
Fortunately, our fears were mixed with an equal, if not greater, amount of grit and determination. We focused and worked 12-hour days, committed to doing whatever it took to bring our dream to life. Like most small business owners, we were willing to go the extra mile as many times as necessary.
h undreds of deadlines have come and gone since that first little 28-page publication. Some issues flow easier than others, but no matter how many speed bumps or hiccups we come across, each edition gets published with the same love and resolve that went into Issue No. 1.
As we publish this 225th issue of Shore Local, I find joy in the fact that we still hold each finished product in our
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, Keith Dawn, Whitney Ullman
Cover artwork done by Jon Baker.
hands with a sense of accomplishment bigger than anything we’ve ever known.
We are deeply proud of this journey and look forward to the next seven plus years. Most of all, we are proud of the team of contributors that have come together to ensure that each issue is a high-quality read. Our hearts swell with gratitude as we reflect on all the people who have made Shore Local possible, from our loyal advertisers to our fantastic team of writers, designers, photographers, videographers, and reliable distribution team.
We are especially grateful for YOU, the readers who allow us into your lives week after week. Knowing that each edition of Shore Local makes its way into countless homes, offices, and the hands of our local community is something we do not take for granted.
With time and dedication comes growth and we have A LOT to celebrate with this issue.
In the beginning Shore Local published every two weeks and in recent years we stayed every two weeks in the "off" season, but published weekly in the summer. We are now thrilled to announce that beginning in early May, Shore Local will begin publishing weekly, every Thursday throughout the the years to come.
Additionally, we are excited to
welcome two new contributors to the team. Whitney Ullman, the founder of The City Pulse and South Jersey Events Correspondent for FOX News, will be presenting "Whitney's Weekly Picks," highlighting the area’s biggest and most exciting events each week. Be on the lookout for Whitney on our social media platforms, as she will be streaming current events in real time.
Keith Dawn will be kicking off his new business column focused on helping entrepreneurs, and business owners of all experience levels find success. Keith is the former publisher of The Press of Atlantic City, having led the way during its heyday in the early 2000 s
With this issue, we are bringing back a special feature, hometown hero, honoring community leaders who go above and beyond to make South Jersey even greater than it already is. Check out the feature on Michelle riordan on page 10. Michelle’s commitment to bringing S.T.E.M. education to local children is, quite literally, “out of this world.”
If you know someone extraordinary that gives back in a big way, we want to know. Please email shorelocalnews@ gmail.com or call (609)-788-4812 Peace
The Claridge h otel in Atlantic City is making plans for a 10,000-square-foot , two-story cannabis dispensary and lounge to be opened in the space that was previously utilized as its casino floor.
The Casino reinvestment Development Authority gave its approval for the " high rollers Dispensary," to be located at the Claridge, between Park Place and Indiana Avenue, just
off the Atlantic City Boardwalk. h owever, the state is still finalizing its approval of regulations on legalized consumption lounges, in which customers can smoke, vaporize, or eat cannabis products they’ve purchased in a public setting, akin to a marijuana version of a bar or restaurant.
The high rollers Dispensary and Lounge could open as early as this summer.
Atlantic City has established a “Green Zone” for recreational cannabis businesses. Permitted cannabis uses within the zone could include cultivation, manufacturing, wholesaling, distribution, retail, and delivery.
By Dan Skeldon
Welcome to spring, well, in a meteorologist’s world anyway.
A weatherperson defines winter to be the months of December, January, and February, although the calendar says we have to officially wait until Monday, March 20th this year, specifically at 5:24pm.
That means we made it through a hard, grueling, and unrelenting winter. Not for most of us, who are probably hoping for more winters as easy as the current one down the road. But for the South Jersey snow lover, the #winterthatwasnt or our #sprin-ter (combination of spring and winter) was a long and depressing one.
Let’s first talk temperatures: This winter was a Top 5 warmest on record, officially landing as the
4th warmest on record in the last 80 years or so. Keep in mind that all of the top 5 warmest winters have happened in the last 12 years. This winter comes in as the 4th warmest on record, less than a degree out of the top spot. Minus a bitter cold blast of bona fide arctic air around and just before Christmas and a slightly less intense shot of cold to start the month of February, warmth was king this winter.
It may not be Florida, but snowbirds who couldn’t make the trip down south this year probably weren’t complaining! There were upwards of 10 days, at least on the mainland, where high temperatures surged past 60 degrees, including a rare 70-degree day in January. There were another 36 days with highs of at least 50 degrees. Considering there’s only 88 days in meteorological winter from December 1st to February 28, that means that more than half of our days were spent in the 50s and 60s.
Of course, cold air is one of the prerequisites in order to get snow. So with cold air lacking, it’s not really a surprise that the snow followed suit. As of now, the official snowfall total for the 2022-23 season stands at a
meager 0.3” of snow. There were just two days, both in February, with measurable snow, but barely measurable. February 1st saw 0.2 inches of snow at the Atlantic City International Airport, and then February 25th saw a dusting of 0.1 inches.
Add the two staggering numbers together and it adds up to the least snowy winter season on record in South Jersey, at least so far. The winter of 1972-73 is the current record holder, with just 0.4 inches for the season, with the more recent winter of 2019-2020.just a tenth of an inch behind as the second least snowy winter season with 0.5 inches.
So why “so far”? After all, meteorological winter ended when we turned the calendar to March. Yes, that’s true, but snow stats are somewhat unique, as a snow “season” runs from July 1st to June 30th each year. That means that any snow that falls before June 30th is counted in this winter’s numbers.
Of course, we can rule out measurable snow in May and June. And typically (but always) most Aprils as well. On the other hand, March is a fickle beast weather-wise. We can soak up 80-degree warmth, or deal with a blizzard. Sometimes we get both, and only days apart. March madness doesn’t always apply to college basketball, as there is often meteorological March madness this time of year. So we can’t lay claim to the least snowy winter “season” claim until we wade through whatever the upcoming month has in store.
Just look at March of 2014, when we had not one, not two, but three sizable spring-time snowfalls, including on St. Patrick’s Day. Then in March
2018, we had a half foot of snow on the first day of spring. There have indeed been winters when March turns out to be the snowiest month of them all. On the plus side, on those occasions when March turns white, the snow usually doesn’t last, given the increasing sun angle and increasingly mild temperatures as winter turns to spring.
Sure enough, there are some signals that before March 2023 is done, a colder and stormier pattern may set up for a week or two, most likely around mid-month, as in the second and third weeks of the month. Now remember we had a “favorable” pattern for snow around the holidays in late December and all we got was a few days of bitter cold to shiver to. But it wouldn’t surprise me if we had to beware the Ides of March this year from a storm point of view, or let’s say from March 10 to March 20. Nor’easters have also been lacking this winter, and let’s say we’re due. That doesn’t mean I’m rooting for one though.
So welcome to meteorological spring, and let’s see what March has in store for us this year.
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.
countless hours to bringing happiness and ease to local families.
By Krystle J BaileyBehind every well-respected organization lies a team of people who make the magic happen. They fly under the radar, simply doing the work that needs to be done, often without the limelight or recognition they deserve. Without these unsung heroes, many of the companies and community organizations that have become local household names wouldn’t be possible.
Michelle riordan of Egg h arbor Township is one of those special humans whose skills, passion, and expertise breathe life into several organizations in South Jersey, including the Atlantic County Toys for Kids program and the S.T.E.M. programs at EhT PAL.
The mother of three, originally from North Jersey, moved to Atlantic County in the 1980s, where she began her photography career and life as an entrepreneur. For the last thirty years, Michelle has been an integral part of the Atlantic County Toys for Kids program, working behind the scenes to plan events, distribute toys, and promote toy drives. From volunteering her talents as a photographer to her current position as the events coordinator, Michelle has devoted
While Michelle loves taking beautiful photos as a career photographer, it is the science behind photography and film that intrigues her the most. her natural fascination for science, space, and engineering, combined with her children’s curiosity, led Michelle down a S.T.E.M.-inspired path in life.
Once building volcanoes at home with her children out of pure love for chemistry, Michelle is now the force behind the EhT PAL S.T.E.M. Expo, the Ventnor Solar System Walk, S.T.E.M. Camp, a Kid Wind Challenge Team, and so much more.
The titles behind Michelle riordan’s name are seemingly endless, as her involvement in the S.T.E.M. world has continued to evolve over the years. She now serves as a NASA Solar System Ambassador, NASA Astrocamp Facilitator, Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Member, a Merit Badge Counselor for Scouts, NJ Aviation Education Council Member, South Jersey Stem Innovation Partnership Member, and South Jersey Astronomy Club Member.
As a NASA Solar System Ambassador, Michelle leads a weekly Star Gazer group where she teaches children about the night sky, how to identify planet and cloud patterns, and how to participate in research. Children are encouraged to stay up to date on news and research related to space exploration while learning about the
intricacies of the solar system.
In partnership with Steve Jasiecki, Michelle created a half-mile solar system walk on the Ventnor Boardwalk where participants are invited to explore the solar system complete with planets, black holes, asteroid belts, and changes in the seasons. This interactive learning experience began in 2020 and will return to the Ventnor Boardwalk this spring.
Michelle is also responsible for leading a NASA rOADS Challenge team at PAL, where she teaches participants about robotics and drone flying, as well as a Kid Wind Challenge team, where children are invited to learn about wind turbines.
With renewable and coastal energy being the talk of the town, Michelle is leaning into her environmental science degree and partnering with ACIT and rutgers Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine research reserve to spearhead a two-year rOV re -
search mission off the South Jersey coast. high school students are invited to learn how to pilot the underwater rOV which PAL acquired in 2019. They will study how dredging is affecting the coastal environment and ecosystem and explore the research possibilities with rOVE 4K imaging.
“New technology keeps me excited,” explains riordan. “We are in an age of a space exploration renaissance. There’s so much to learn.”
There is no end in sight for Michelle riordan. In the midst of all of these roles, she is currently pursuing her Geographic Info Systems Certificate and is open to where life takes her next. right now, her focus is on delivering the best in S.T.E.M. research and experience to South Jersey by way of EhT PAL. The S.T.E.M. Expo will take place on Saturday, March 25, and will include dozens of opportunities for a hands-on S.T.E.M. experience.
For more information on the S.T.E.M. Expo, visit www.ehtpal.org. Keep up with Michelle riordan: Instagram: MStella119
Twitter: M_ riordanPBE
For questions or more information, Michelle can be reached at Michelle. riordan@ehtpal.org.
Krystle J Bailey is a multimedia journalist, author and poet. Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5
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Progressive Atlantic City Boat Show
▶Now – 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, Saturday
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 h all 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 Thurs-
day at 1pm, Friday at 9am and 6pm, and Saturday at 10am. Tickets available via the Boardwalk hall box office or Ticketmaster.
Seussical
▶Fridays at 7pm, Saturdays at 2pm & 7pm
Atlantic County Institute of Technology 5080 Atlantic Ave. Mays Landing
The Atlantic County Institute of Technology Performing Arts Program through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI) presents Seussical. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 students, $5 children under 10. Cash only at the door or www.acitech.org for reserved seating. Dates: Friday, March 3 & 10 at 7pm, Saturday, March 4 & 11 at 2pm & 7pm.
MAAC 2023 Basketball Championships
▶Tuesday, March 7 – Saturday, March 11
Jim Whelan Boardwalk h all 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
The 2023 hercules Tires MAAC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships will return to the historic Jim Whelan Boardwalk hall. Tickets available via the Boardwalk hall box office and Ticketmaster.
South Jersey Players presents Dinner Theater
▶Tuesdays at 6pm
Aroma restaurant 5206 Atlantic Ave. Ventnor
South Jersey Players presents Dinner Theater, featuring Five Original OneActs, and Three-Course Plated Dinner at Aroma restaurant. Event dates are Tuesdays this March. Tickets are $45. For more information, call 347-920-6399. South Jersey Players, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit.
Somers Point Dance Society
▶Tuesdays from 7:30-10pm
Somers Point Fire Co #1 447 Bethel rd.
ready to go dancing again? Come out to Somers Point Fire Co. #1 every Tuesday for social dancing, line dances, dance mixers, and more. Light snacks included in admission. $1 live musical duo each week. Call rita Voli at 609-408-3619 for information. See you on the dance floor. Shake the Shamrock
▶Friday, March 10th & Saturday, March 11th
Join Brigantine Chamber of Commerce for the city’s 1st Annual Island Wide Irish Celebration. Events include a free water aerobics class, Leprechaun Chase, Authentic Irish Food and Specialty Drinks, specials on shopping, and so much more. Plus, enjoy Traditional Irish Dancing, Bagpipes, live music, axe throwing, and more. For more information, visit shaketheshamrock.com.
Project Prom
▶Saturday, March 11 – Monday, March 13
Kensington Furniture & Mattress 200 Tilton rd. Northfield
Come choose the dress of your dreams for prom. The event is open to ALL h igh School Students who are in need of a prom dress. Saturday, March 11th from 10am-4pm, Sunday, March 12th 11am-4pm, and Monday, March 13th from 2-5pm.
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. 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 h arbor 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 GEhTh S 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 AllStars. 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 4th
Somers Paddy Crawl ▶12-5pm
Join the 2nd Annual Somers Paddy Crawl, with unlimited Jitney rides between locations in Somers Point, drinks and food specials, t-shirt, swag bag and giveaways. Locations include Caroline’s by the Bay, Charlie’s Bar & restaurant, Gregory’s restaurant & Bar, Josie Kelly’s Public h ouse, Somers Point American
Legion, Somers Point V.F.W., Somers Point Fire Co. #2, and Somers Point Brewing Co. Cost is $30 each, a portion benefiting the Community FoodBank of NJ Southern Branch. Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite. Email SomersPaddyCrawl@gmail.com for more information.
Sunday, March 5th
Atlantic County’s Notable Women in History
▶2pm
Atlantic County h istorical 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 Saturday from 10-3.
Tuesday, March 7th
Green Thumb Garden Club Meeting
▶7pm
Somers Point Senior Center 22-98
S. Ambler rd.
The Green Thumb Garden Club will meet this Tuesday. Itching to plan your garden? Learn how growing, saving and sharing international heritage seeds can lead to a “Peace & Unity revival Garden”. All are welcome to be inspired by veter-
an gardener/educator Damon Smith of reed’s regenerative Organic Farm and his organization, Gloves on the Ground. For more information, call heidi at (609) 703-9170
Thursday, March 9th
Positivity Project: Morning Refresh
▶10:30am
Start your day in an upbeat way. Explore positivity with JFS Wellness Coordinator Mary Jean Arreola and Village Community Specialist Tina Serota. You’ll learn ways to boost wellness – mind, body and soul. Topics include self-care, mindfulness, gratitude, meditation, and resiliency. rSVP by March 2nd by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
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.
↘Continued on 14
Saturday, March 11th
Market Madness
▶10am-5pm
Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk
The concept is simple… all of Ocean City’s favorite stores under one roof for one day offering amazing shopping specials. For more information, visit oceancityvacation.com.
Brigantine Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
▶1pm
St. Thomas Church to Veterans Way
32nd St.
Brigantine Beach hosts their annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. The festivities begin at St. Thomas Church, down Brigantine Ave. to Veterans Way at 32nd Street.
Career Carnival for Kids
▶2-5pm
Showboat resort Atlantic City 800 Boardwalk
Career Carnivals are interactive, funfilled and FrEE events where kids and families meet Career Guides (industry professionals) from different businesses, organizations, and schools to enjoy hands-on activities, games, and giveaways while learning about the amazing world of work. Attendees include AtlantiCare, F&S Digital, h orizon BCBSNJ, Atlantic Cape Community College, as well as Steel Pier, Showboat resort, and Lucky Snake Arcade. register via Eventbrite to receive a discounted parking fee. Visit careercarnivalforkids.com for more information.
Sunday, March 12th
Atlantic City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
▶1pm
Boardwalk from St. James Place to Albany Avenue
After a three-year hiatus, the historic Atlantic City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is back on the world-famous Boardwalk. This year’s Grand Marshals are Frank and Joe Dougherty. On March 12th, everyone is Irish. Break out your green and join us on the Boardwalk for a fun filled family day in Atlantic City. Vehicle application due March 6th and marcher application due March 10th. For information, please email stpatricksparadeac@gmail.com.
Tuesday, March 14th
Village Film Society
▶10:30am
Join Village Community Specialist Tina Serota for a discussion about the comedy-drama motion picture, You People starring Elliott Gould, Julia Louis Dreyfus, Eddie Murphy, and rhea Perlman. The motion picture portrays a culture, family clash, and relationship test when two millennials from different backgrounds meet, fall in love, and then introduce to each other’s families. The film can be viewed on Netflix. rSVP by March 7th by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
UTHS Potluck Dinner
▶6pm
First United Methodist Church route
49, Tuckahoe
Join members and friends of the historical Preservation Society of Upper Township for their annual Potluck Dinner. This is the first meeting for the Society’s 2023 program year. There is no cover charge for this dinner and program. The popular “show and share” will be held following the dinner. Please rSVP with the Society’s Eventbrite page at https://UpperTwp history.eventbrite. com.
Thursday, March 16th
Piano Bar at the Gateway
▶7-9pm
2022 Baltic Ave. Atlantic City
Join Gateway Playhouse for their January Piano Bar featuring Michael McAssey. h e is described as “one of cabaret’s most talented troubadours” by Broadway World and “the love child of robin Williams & Mae West, and the grandson of Mel Torme” according to NiteLife Exchange. Tickets are available for $15. Visit gatewaybythebay.org for tickets and information.
Friday, March 17th Memoir Workshop
▶10:30am
Katz JCC Boardroom 501 N. Jerome Ave. Margate
Experience the thrill of capturing your life’s adventures, history, and ancestry at the Memoir Workshop led by award-win -
ning author and Drexel University Professor of Creative Writing, harriet Levin Millan. Learn about publishing your work. You need a laptop or pen/paper for the workshop Attend in-person at JCC or via Zoom. rSVP by March 13th by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
Saturday, March 18th
4H Electronic Recycling Fundraiser
▶9am
David C. Wood 4h Center 3210 route 50, Mays Landing
The Atlantic County 4h hosts their monthly Electronic recycling Fundraiser. Accepted items include computer monitors, keyboards, PC speakers, PC fans
EHT Health & Fitness Fair
▶10am-2pm
EhT Community Center 5045 English Creek Ave. Egg harbor Township
Join Egg harbor Township recreation at an event where anyone can find the resources they need to become and stay a healthy member of our community. Come try our classes; fitness instructors will be sharing a taste of their class. Spin, Cardio Blast, Yoga, Meditation, Zumba, Tabata, and others. Meet with health care professionals from AtlantiCare, Optimal health, Southern Jersey Family Medical and many more. Visit with community organizations to learn more about programs available to all residents.
tural 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.
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
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..
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
By Rich Baehrle
Atlantic County has become a true international community over the past 40 years. With that comes a demand for authentic foods both from markets and restaurants. This week we are featuring 2 businesses that have recognized the need to address both local and the international communities.
Absecon's Gokul Farmers Market expanding.
Gokul Farmers Market which is located at 209 New road, Absecon is a tremendously successful business. It was founded by Yokesh and rakesh Patel during the fall of 2009. They were motivated to start the business due to the lack of South Asian food options in the local South Jersey area. After countless trips to North Jer-
sey Indian/ American supermarkets on weekends, they felt that this issue was not just unique to their families, but to countless others in the area.
The brothers gave up their engineering careers to follow their passion of sharing the food and culture of their homeland of India with their community. After 14 years of remarkable growth and outpouring support from the community and beyond, Gokul has outgrown their current building. They are now finishing a new 7,000-squarefoot building next to their current store. The new location will be operational in the beginning of April. With the expansion, Gokul plans on offering items from all around the world no -
tably the Caribbean, Latin America, and the Middle East along with their current Indian, Pakistani, and Bengali inventory. The goal is to continue to share the global culture and cuisine. Yokesh and rakesh are excited to announce that they are planning for a restaurant and a laundromat.
Gokel is a true family business with their entire household involved. Yokesh’s son Dev has been involved since he was tall enough to stock the shelves. h e is a Stockton University graduate and currently serves in the NJ Air National Guard and he is pursuing his MD. Dev plans on expanding the family business after graduating from medical school. The family says they are very excited for what is to come and they would like to thank the community for their support and invites them to attend their grand opening in April.
Lil Saigon is moving to Northfield.
Northfield is about to welcome the well-known Lil Saigon to the former Friendly’s Family restaurant located at 1003 Tilton road. The restaurant has sat vacant for many years, but
it appears that the wait is going to be worth it to get such a great quality establishment as Lil Saigon. It is currently located at the Exchange in Linwood. It will be open there until March 25. They are excited to be relocating into a totally renovated 110-seat, full-dining BYOB restaurant.
Lil Saigon has been serving authentic and fusion Vietnamese cusine for over 30 years. Lil Saigon is well known for their Noodle Bowls and their award winning, one and only Pho beef noodle soup with sliced flank steak. Their innovative Boxes and Bowls can be customized to accommodate every taste bud. You can even order customizable fried rice and pan-fried egg noodles. Also look out for their tried and true house made specials and fresh squeezed/ brewed drinks. Call 609-904-2778.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
As 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 ou tside 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 is n’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 be cleaned with some good, old-fashioned soap and water.
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.
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 www.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.
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
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
Thursday, March 2nd
Doug Jennings 6-9pm. Bocca
7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
Dane Anthony 8pm-12am
rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
DJ Pat Conlon 8pm
Nola’s Bar at Ocean
500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Friday, March 3rd
Ann Michal 6-10pm
rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
Friday Hooley w/ Tom & Bill 6-9pm
Josie Kelly’s Public house
908 Shore rd. Somers Point
Jeremy Oren 6pm 1927 Lounge at Ocean
500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Sara & Tom 6:30-9:30pm. Bocca
7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
Philly Keys 7-11pm
renault Winery
72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg harbor City
Black Car Gina Trio 7:30pm
Villain & Saint at Ocean
500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Nolan Quinn 7:30pm
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
316 roosevelt Blvd. Marmora
Smokey Robinson 8pm
Borgata Event Center
1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City
Pale Shade, Ultra Lite, Casting, Wonderglu 8pm
Anchor rock Club
247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City
Kristen and the Noise 10pm
The Yard at Bally’s
1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Saturday, March 4th
Cheers the Band 12-4pm
renault Winery
72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg harbor City
Brandon Ireland Band 5-9pm
rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
Megan Knight Trio 6pm
Villain & Saint at Ocean
500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Kono Nation 7pm
Nola’s Bar at Ocean
500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
No Clue Trio 7-10pm Bocca
7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
Sean Looch 7:30pm
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
316 roosevelt Blvd. Marmora
The Soul II Soul Tour with Kem & Ledisi w/ Musiq Soulchild 8pm
hard rock Live at Etess Arena
1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Super Trans AM 8pm
Superstar Theater at resorts Casino
1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Sleep House, Wallace, Tonight!,
Robert’s Basement, Bare Bodkin 8pm
Anchor rock Club
247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City
Shaun LaBoy 8-11pm
Tennessee Avenue Beer hall
133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City
The O’Fenders 8pm-12am
Josie Kelly’s Public house
908 Shore rd. Somers Point
Shrek Rave 9pm. The Yard at Bally’s
1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Cheezy & The Crackers 10pm Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Sunday, March 5th
Greg Clark 10am-1pm. Bocca
7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
John King 12-4pm. renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg harbor City
The Soul II Soul Tour with Kem & Ledisi w/ Musiq Soulchild 5pm hard rock Live at Etess Arena 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Tony Day & Across the Globe Band
7:30-10:30pm. Kelsey’s 1545 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Lauren Pelaia & Matthew Kelley 8pm 1927 Lounge at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Monday, March 6th
Red 7-11pm. rush Lounge at Golden Nugget. 600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
Tuesday, March 7th
Golden Oldies w/ DJ Special K 5-9pm Josie Kelly’s Public house 908 Shore rd. Somers Point
Patty & Bugzy 8pm-12am rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
Wednesday, March 8th
Danny Eyer 5:30pm. Tuckahoe Inn 1 harbor rd. Beesley’s Point
Jazz by the Bob Sterling Band 7-10pm Bocca. 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
Thursday, March 9th
DJ Luap 8pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Friday, March 10th
Indelible Groove 6-10pm rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
Bob & Nicky 6:30-9:30pm. Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
Chaos on the Coast 7pm Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Atley Moon 7:30pm
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern 316 roosevelt Blvd. Marmora
Eddie Morgan Trio 7:30-10:30pm
Kelsey’s. 1545 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Pitbull 8pm
hard rock Live at Etess Arena 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
LeCompt 8pm
Margaritaville at resorts Casino 1133
Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Ladies Night Out feat. After 7, Lyfe
Jennings and Dwele 9pm
Tropicana Showroom
2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Chelsea Rae & The Rescue 9pm
Josie Kelly’s Public house
908 Shore rd. Somers Point
Bertin Y Su Condesa vs Dinastya
Angelito 9pm. Anchor rock Club
247 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City
Gab Cinque Band 10pm. The Yard at Bally’s. 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Don’t Call Me Francis 12-4pm
renault Winery
72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg harbor City
Jim Shaw 12-3pm. Bocca
7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
The Kilted Rogues 4-7pm. resorts
Casino. 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
DJ Patrice McBride 5-9pm
The Yard at Bally’s
1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Jexxa Duo 5-9pm
rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
Abby Lee Duo 6pm
Villain & Saint at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Petty Cash 7-10pm. Bocca
7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
Usual Suspects 7pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Colin York 7:30pm
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
316 roosevelt Blvd. Marmora
Monray and Upper Level 7:3010:30pm. Kelsey’s
1545 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Pitbull 8pm
hard rock Live at Etess Arena
1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Patti LaBelle 8pm
Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars
2100 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
Garden State Radio 10pm The Yard at Bally’s 1900 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City
JEM & The Vibe 10pm
rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 600 huron Ave. Atlantic City
Doug Jennings 10am-1pm. Bocca
7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate
Who’s Bad: Michael Jackson Tribute 12pm & 4pm. Sound Waves at hard rock. 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Glenn Roberts 3-6pm
Tennessee Avenue Beer hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City
DJ Sajen 7pm. Nola’s Bar at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Dave Haywood & Matthew Kelley 8pm
1927 Lounge at Ocean 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Events subject to change.
On Monday, members of the Upper Township Committee gathered for a public hearing to discuss an ordinance to authorize the redevelopment of the former B.L. England Generating Station. The meeting attracted dozens from across the region, many voicing concern over the land’s potential use as a substation for offshore wind production.
The redevelopment Plan Amendment, adopted in 2021, calls for the construction of an electrical substation that would transmit power from an offshore wind farm to the grid. The substation would sit on a portion of the land once occupied by the B.L. England power station, and would further replace an existing substation in operation today.
An impassioned crowd, comprised of Upper Township residents and members of surrounding communities, made their voices heard on
rich Baehrle, who addressed the potential for negative impacts within the tourism, fishing, and real estate industries. Others, like Sunni Vargas, representing the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, spoke in favor of the plan, adding it would give life to the facility and space for alternative energy sources.
Newly elected Committeeman
Victor Nappen II spoke before the official vote. h e noted that while the substation could have benefits for the township, he has called for a moratorium to look at the issue more. “I have come to the conclusion that what’s happening in the ocean is inherently and inextricably linked to us, and we can do something about it (and) pause our efforts.”
the issue. More than a dozen public comments were made both in favor and in objection to the amendment. One of the voices on-hand for the meeting included Northfield resident
A motion to wait until planned congressional hearings on the offshore wind matter was defeated. At the end of the night, the ordinance was adopted by a vote of 3-2. Offi -
cial meeting information and minutes will be made available via the township website in due time.
The B.L. England Generating Station began operations in 1961 and housed four diesel electric generators. The plant closed officially in March 2019 and is in the process of demolition, with its sole cooling tower having been demolished
in September. Further development plans and proposals have yet to be announced.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
A motion to wait until planned congressional hearings on the offshore wind matter was defeated. At the end of the night, the ordinance was adopted by a vote of 3-2.
I’m back. Not that I ever really left, but I’m back on a more permanent basis.
Some of you may remember me as the guy who ran The Press of Atlantic City for more than 12 years as publisher in the early 2000s. I left to work for different media companies in New York and then in central Pennsylvania. A total of nine years of dreadful commuting.
Some of you may also remember that I was the pain in the A-- boss who was relentless for growth year after year, even in recessionary times. And some of you don’t know who I am and probably don’t care. Fair enough.
I was the guy leading a company in what some would call a “dying industry.” In fact, the last 20-plus years have not been kind to the newspaper business.
Change has happened all around us. Locally there are many businesses that have been around for decades and remain resilient through tough times. There are new ones that have opened, and sadly, there are some that went out of business.
The ones that remain open had to rein -
vent themselves and the ones that opened up all understand that to grow through uncertain times means that change is inevitable.
When times are tough, businesses are forced to adapt to the changing marketplace. Think of all the changes that have occurred in this marketplace in the past 15 to 20 years ago.
It makes many of us look back and remember the “good old days.” Twelve casinos were thriving and small to mid-size businesses were beginning to transform. This all around the time a major recession was about to disrupt most of us.
A disruption can either be an opportunity or a threat, depending on how one responds to it. It reminds me of the famous quote from Eric Shinseki who said, “If you don’t like change, you’re going to like irrelevance even less.” Employees used to hate hearing me say this, but business owners need to hear it.
The job of the publisher is like that of a CEO; they run the business side of things. The editor (the intellectual one) is the person in charge of the news and content.
At most newspapers this is usually a very unique and sometimes continuous relationship. however, the owners of Shore Local pull it off perfectly. Bob Fertsch is the publisher (guy in charge) and his wife, Cindy is the editor (brains behind the operation).
Primarily because the Fertschs know the value of local. It’s even part of their name. It’s something that many large media companies have forgotten.
It’s such a strong value to them that everything from their ads to their content and columnists is local. I’m proud to be a contributor to Shore Local joining other Press alumni such as Scott Cronick, Chuck Eberson, David Weinberg, and Dan Skeldon.
Currently I’m a business coach/advisor and CEO of my own consulting firm called Strategic Growth Partners. I work with businesses to help them improve their bottom lines.
We begin with a deep dive assessment of the overall operation. I then present a customized roadmap that identifies various initiatives and strategies that will contribute to their success.
My objective for this column is to share some insights for locally owned businesses. I also hope to help local consumers understand what businesses go through and why it’s important to support them.
Business is tough enough without the obstacles of inflation, recession, world-wide pandemics, staffing and other challenges.
Through each of my columns, I’ll try to educate and offer some fairly simplified solutions to problems that businesses need to face head on.
Some examples of topics I’ll cover will be:
● Sales/Marketing
● Generating leads
● Market Dominating Position (unique selling proposition)
● Strategic Planning
● Compounding
● Training/Education
● Customer retention
● Start ups
● Financials
If you’re interested in a particular subject drop me a line at keith.dawn@sgpCoach.com. If you’d like to give feedback, feel free to hit me up.
Until the next issue, keep in mind this quote from Jim rohn, “Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.”
Keith is a seasoned media executive and former publisher for The Press of Atlantic City.
Keith is now a business coach/ advisor and CEO of his own consulting firm called Strategic Growth Partners. He’s passionate about helping businesses grow. He can be reached at keith. dawn@sgpCoach.com or you can visit his website for more detailed information at https://www.sgpcoach.com.
By James FitzPatrick Contributing Writer
The Atlantic County Board of Commissioners has joined the chorus of New Jersey coastal officials
calling for a pause in offshore wind development until experts can figure out what’s behind the recent spike in whale deaths in New Jersey and New York.
On Feb. 21, the commissioners passed a resolution calling for a 90day wind development moratorium
until answers can be found.
The resolution expresses support for state Sen. Vince Polistina and U.S. rep. Jeff Van Drew. The senator wants Gov. Phil Murphy to implement a 30-day pause, whereas Van Drew wants to end all offshore wind development.
Van Drew plans to hold a hearing in the area March 16, location and time to be announced. h e is also planning to introduce related federal legislation.
Attention has turned to Orsted and Atlantic Shores, two companies which are doing drilling and sonar surveys in preparation for wind projects. Once complete, the companies will add approximately 290 wind turbines combined as close as 9 miles off the coast.
The danger to whales and other marine mammals is the disruptive sounds produced by these activities, which can cause them to radically change their behavior to avoid them.
The hope is that the cause of the deaths can be determined soon.
“In those 30 days we could get necropsies back and figure out
between both of these companies where they were doing the work, when they were doing the work,” Polistina told the Board of Commissioners.
The resolution to support Polistina’s moratorium, which was sponsored by commissioners rich Dase and Frank Balles, passed by a vote of 7-2 with commissioners Caren Fitzpatrick and Ernest Coursey voting against. Dase and Balles said they brought it forward to give voice to their constituents' concerns.
residents have raised offshore wind questions on numerous fronts including potential harm to birds, fisheries, bats, human health, tourism and property values.
In 90 minutes of comments from a packed house of residents at the Stillwater Building in Northfield, almost all were in support of the moratorium and against the project.
They raised doubts if wind turbines were better for the environment given what it takes to produce, maintain, and dispose of them.
Many said they feel disenfranchised by the frequent use of ex-
ecutive orders to move the wind projects forward and wonder if environmental protection groups have been corrupted by the numerous financial donations made to them by the big wind companies.
“I'm dealing with what's been asked of me and trying to get some answers,” Dase said.
Balles said that although about a dozen strandings have been reported between New York and New Jersey, we don't know how big the problem is.
“Most whales when they die, they're out in the ocean and they sink to the bottom of the ocean,” Balles said. “So we're not seeing all the whales that actually die.”
Commissioner Caren Fitzpatrick said the economic benefits of offshore wind argue against a moratorium.
Fitzpatrick said the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration NOAA verified that the deaths are not associated with offshore wind; rather they've been attributed to ship strikes and redistribution of food sources due climate change, which offshore wind will help fight.
“This is a once-in- a-generation opportunity for Atlantic County and Southern New Jersey,” she said, noting that $2.9 million has been awarded to Atlantic Cape Community College, and $1.5 million to the Atlantic County Institute of Technology for offshore wind related training.
“We need a new industry to bring people to Atlantic County and the region to share the burden of running the county,” she said, noting that wind aligns well with developing the Atlantic City International Airport.
Commissioner Ernest Coursey called the resolution a pointless exercise because the county has no say in the matter.
“The truth of the matter is it's like we’re putting up a resolution to make the public feel good knowing damn well the resolution means absolutely nothing because we have no say so,” Coursey said.
Commissioner James Bertino said the wind farm developers should welcome the moratorium as an opportunity to clear the air.
“They actually should encourage it so they get the questions answered for the public so they have an answer instead of delaying saying nothing's impacting it,” Bertino said.
Commissioner Amy Gatto suggested that a timeframe be placed on the resolution. Balles later obliged by moving that the 90-day period be added to the language.
Vice Chairman Andrew Parker
said backing a moratorium does not equate to offshore wind opposition.
“I don't think that we're saying that we're against the project,” Parker said. “I think what everyone is saying is that we should take the time to make sure what we're doing is appropriate.”
h e also opposed adding a time limit.
Vince Sera, mayor of Brigantine Beach, noted how much public concerns have grown since he first got involved two years ago. Now there is a letter started in Brigantine and signed by mayors from 30 towns in the state, calling for a pause.
“When I started this process I was all by myself,” Sera said. “Now I'm not just speaking on behalf of Brigantine, I’m speaking on behalf of 30 mayors and 360,000 people in the state of New Jersey. People want answers. They want to know what's going on.
“Once these are built and once they go forward, it's too late.”
The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman
I’m honored to launch "Whitney's Weekend Picks" here at Shore Local, and look forward to providing you with information about some of the best
entertainment we have in Atlantic and Cape May counties. If you’re looking for inspiration, and want to take your creativity to the next level, you’ll find some fun exhibits and events in our area this weekend. h ave fun and be safe everyone!
ATLANTIC COUNTY
What: The Atlantic City Boat Show
Where: Atlantic City Convention Center
When: Wednesday, March 1-Sunday, March 5
Time: Wednesday-Friday, noon-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Website: www.acboatshow.com
Tickets: $20
The Atlantic City Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive Insurance, is back at the Atlantic City Convention Center March 1-5 featuring something for every boater.
There will be hundreds of vessels on display, interactive boating exhibits for the whole family and a onestop shop for boats, boating accessories, and on-the-water adventures.
Website: https://casinos.ballys. com/atlantic-city/yard
Tickets: $20
This Shrek themed rave is making its exclusive New Jersey stop at Bally’s The Yard in Atlantic City on March 4. Grab your costumes and remember: IT’S DUMB JUST COME hAVE FUN!
What: Smokey robinson
Where: Borgata hotel Casino and Spa
When: Friday, March 3 Time: 8 p.m.
Website: https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/ event-center/smokey-robinson.html
Tickets: From $60
rock ’N roll hall of Famer Smokey robinson, known for over four decades of hits, will take over the stage at Borgata’s Event Center on Friday, March 3.
What: Shrek rave at The Yard
Where: Bally’s The Yard
When: Saturday, March 4 Time: 9 p.m.-2 a.m.
What: The Atlantic City Ballet 40th Anniversary Gala
Where: Caesars Atlantic City h otel & Casino
When: Saturday, March 4
Time: 7 p.m.
Website: www.acballet.org
Tickets: $250
Celebrate the Atlantic City Ballet’s 40th anniversary with a gala celebration beginning at 7 p.m. It includes dinner, dancing and a salute to their accomplished alumni over the past 40 years.
What: "My Atlantic City” Exhibit
Where: Union hall Arts
When: Now until April 17
Website: www.UnionhallArts.com
Check out Union hall Arts and its new exhibition, “My Atlantic City,” which features 70 artists who showcase Atlantic City in different mediums. See website for details.
What: The Somers Point Paddy Crawl
Where: Somers Point
When: Saturday, March 4
Time: Noon-5 p.m.
Website: https://fb.me/e/3nIAUrj0K
Tickets: $30
h op on a jitney between Somers Point bars for music, food and drink specials. Plus, a portion of the pro -
ceeds will go to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey-Southern Branch.
What: The Gallery at Jessie Creek Winery
Where: Jessie Creek Winery, Cape May Court house
When: Saturday March 4
Time: Noon-4 p.m.
Website: https://jessiecreekwinery.com/the-art-gallery/
Every month, The Gallery at Jesse Creek Winery displays art from the local community, and this Saturday they will debut their new exhibition by Sean Friel. Enjoy meeting the artists, trying a featured wine sample and live music.
What: Chanelle r ené “Pure Essence” Art Exhibition
Where: The road Theater in North Cape May
When: Friday, March 3-Friday, March 31
Website: www.endoftheroadtheater.com
The Pure Essence exhibition consists of contemporary paintings by local artist, Chanelle rené.
What: The Playmates’ Big Flute Adventure
Where: Ocean City Library
When: Sunday, March 5
Time: 2 p.m.
Website: www.oceancitylibrary. org
The Playmates’ Big Flute Adventure will feature two flutes and a jazz trio-and it’s free and open to the public.
Whitney Ullman, Stockton University graduate, and founder of gotowhitney.com is known as a “go to” resource, content creator, reporter, and influencer with established credibility in Atlantic City, The Jersey Shore, Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. With over 6 million views on her social platforms, she created TheCityPulse.com as a go-to lifeline for all things happening in the city!
This winter has also been an outstanding one for our local high school girls and boys basketball programs. Don't be surprised to see a few of them vying for state titles next weekend at rutgers University (boys) and rWJ Barnabas Center in Toms river (girls).
By David Weinberg
Local sports fans searching for a cure for their Super Bowl hangover can find the remedy at Jim Whelan Boardwalk hall and other arenas.
This weekend's New Jersey State Individual h igh School Wrestling Championships at Boardwalk hall mark the start of an exciting string of sports events in our area. The schedule also features the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference men's and women's college basketball tournaments next week, followed by professional boxing card at Boardwalk hall's Adrian Phillips Ballroom.
The upcoming state wrestling championships rank among my favorite events. Very few sports can match it in terms of drama, tension and excitement. Over 10,000 fans attend each of the sessions, filling Boardwalk h all arena with cheers and screams while watching some of the best high school wrestlers in the country vie for spots atop the podium.
Kudos to the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association - the state's governing body for high school sports - for moving the girls finals back to Boardwalk h all after a one-year hiatus, thus providing them the same chance to experience the thrilling atmposphere boys wrestlers have experienced for over 20 years.
Cedar Creek senior riley Lerner will attempt to become the first local girls wrestler to win a state title in the 120-pound final Saturday. On the boys side, Lower Cape May regional freshman 132-pounder Chase hansen (40-0) - the only undefeated freshman wrestler in the state - will be attempting to become Lower's first state champ since Shawn Laughlin won the second of back-to-back titles in 1997.
Absegami senior George rhodes (190) will be trying to become his school's first state champ since Nick Bridge and r yan Goodman in 2004.
hansen and rhodes are among 44 boys wrestlers from Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland County high schools trying to become the first local state champ since h oly Spirit's Pat D'Arcy won the 126-pound crown in 2015.
Over the years, the tournament has featured legendary performances that are noted at Boardwalk hall's hall of Fame. In 2006, Delbarton's Mike Grey earned induction by becoming New Jersey's first four-time state champion. In 2012, South Plainfield's Anthony Ashnault joined Grey in the hall of Fame. h e became the state's first four-time undefeated state champion there, capping a 170-0 career with a win in the 135-pound state final.
Wrestling mats will be replaced with a basketball court at the arena the following weekend when the MAAC
tournament hits the boardwalk March 7-11.
It marks the fourth straight year the MAAC has held its conference championships in Atlantic City. Iona University and coach rick Pitino is the top seed in the men's tournament, followed by rider and Siena. Defending tournament champion Saint Peter's left Boardwalk h all last season to go on a magical run that saw it reach the Elite 8 of the NCAA tournament. Iona is also the top seed in the women's bracket, followed by Quinnipiac and Niagra.
In addition, the MAAC E-Sports Championships will be held at Showboat h otel in A.C. on March 9-11 featuring competitions in Super Mario Smash Bros. Ultimate, Overwatch 2, rocket League, League of Legends and Valorant.
Boxing will be back in Atlantic City on March 25 with a card from Millville-based rising Star Promotions.
Unbeaten junior-middlweight Justin Figueroa (3-0, 3 KOs), an Atlantic City lifeguard and holy Spirit high School graduate, is scheduled to be on the card, as is Atlantic City super-featherweight Francisco rodriguez (0-0), who is a Pleasantville high School grad.
I'm hoping to see as many of the events as possible. My plan is calls for my annual trip to Atlantic City Convention Center for the Atlantic City Boat Show, which is being held Wednesday through Sunday.
I try to go every year as a way of honoring my late father-in-law, Charles "Newt" Newton, who upon moving to the Cape May area in the 1960s spent his spare time fishing for flounder aboard the "Shirley E." - named after my late mother-in law - before passing away in 2008.
The closest I've come to owning a boat is a standup paddleboard, which I use to cruise across the Cape May
harbor and other local waterways as soon as the water temperature climbs above 55 degrees. During my sessions, I check out the names of the boats docked at the various marinas.
Come summer, it means paddling past luxury yachts docked at South Jersey Marina. I'm still waiting to get invited aboard for brunch.
The good news for Philly sports fans is the Phillies have reported to spring training in Clearwater, Florida and have begun playing Grapefruit League exhibition games.
The Phils didn’t always train on Gulf Coast, however. As I discovered during a Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts trolley tour last Sunday, they also held spring training in Cape May in 1888, 1891 and 1898.
Those teams headed to Exit Zero primarily to get in shape after a winter’s worth of relaxation. On at least two occasions, the Phils stayed at the hotel Aldeen on Decatur Street while practicing at venues such at Columbia Ballpark across from where the water tower now sits and Seaview Baseball Park near the beachfront.
Inclement weather limited the workouts, but large crowds frequently showed up to watch, according to MAC tour guide Mary Stewart.
Guess there was no such thing as the “Cape May Bubble” back in those days.
that the move would go smoothly, which it would have until “Murphy's Law" showed up.
By Charles P. Eberson Se nior Moments
Recently, my wife and I visited our son, daughter-inlaw, three grandchildren and two Labradoodles for the first time since they moved last August. Currently they are renting a beautiful home until they find a “forever” home in their area. After the family’s kissing, hugging, and screaming at the dogs subsided, we settled into our visit for the next few days. As I looked around the house, every chair, table, bed, dresser, etc. reminded me of moving day months earlier.
My wife and I were surprised when our son heeded our advice of hiring professional movers. he went over all the details and inventory with them meticulously ensuring
The movers arrived with their truck, went into the house, and quickly told our son that everything was not going to fit into one truck and another truck was required, thus doubling the fee and costing thousands of dollars more. To my daughter-in-law’s credit, she told them in words that could not be misconstrued, that their services would no longer be required and to leave immediately.
Unknowingly, my wife and I were on our way to their house to watch the children while the movers worked. Upon arrival, we found a U- haul in the driveway that our son had just rented. My son quickly explained the change in plans and informed us that we, along with his father-in-law, would be helping to load the truck. Time was of the essence since they needed to leave first thing in the morning. We started to carry cardboard boxes into the truck like a trail of ants while our son arranged them like a Tetris game. Dressers, beds, tables, etc.
had to be dismantled. Their bed was a California King Purple Bed that had the rigidity of Jell-O. It was like wrestling a greased pig, only heavier.
Our son’s second floor had an overlook into the living room. Guys doing what guys do, we heaved the mattress over the wall, watched it fall to the floor below and then dragged it out to the truck. Brilliant. It was August 4th, and in Marmora the temperature was 95 degrees and humid. Already a couple hours into the move, I was sweating through my clothes. My wife was supplying me with water which just seemed to explode through my pores before even reaching my stomach.
Then my son called out, “Dad, you have to help me with the gun safe.” This safe is 5 feet high, weighs about 600 pounds and was on the second floor. Along with his father-in-law, we wrestled the safe onto a hand truck and guided it to the top of the stairs. As par for the course, we had to go down six steps to a small landing, rotate the safe around, go down three steps,
rotate the safe again and go down another two steps. After the first couple steps, the safe slipped off the hand truck and my son asked loudly, “Dad, you have it?” I put all my considerable weight against it and figured I would just order some hernia mesh from Amazon, watch a few YouTube videos on the surgery and be up and around in a few days. We finally coaxed that beast the rest of the way down the steps and into the van.
A couple more hours, more bottled water, a few Wawa subs and we were done, I know I sure was. I can’t help but ruminate on the fact that my son and his family are close to finding their next house and will have to move again. Maybe Amazon has a “Buy One, Get One” offer.
Charles Eberson has been in the newspaper business for over 25 years. He has worked as a writer, advertising executive, circulation manager and photographer. His photography can be viewed at charles-eberson. fineartamerica.com
Fish is filled with Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins such as D and B2 riboflavin. Fish is rich in minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium and potassium. The American h eart recommends eating a fish meal 2-3 times per week as part of a healthy heart diet. Eating 3-4 fish meals a week will give you another pound of weight loss every two weeks just from eating fish. Fish is low in calories, contains no saturated fats, and acts like a diuretic.
Fish prevents cardiovascular disease. Fish reduces blood pressure and blood clotting. Fish reduces inflammation, improves blood vessel elasticity, lowers triglycerides and boosts good cholesterol.
Eating fish regularly may shield delicate blood vessels in the brain from subtle damage that can lead to mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or stroke. Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna contain ample omega-3 fatty acids, which may enhance immune function. Omega-3 may increase your body’s ability to ward off illnesses.
Guidelines for Americans eating fish are at least 8 ounces of seafood (less for children) per week based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Those who are pregnant or nursing should consume between 8-12 ounces per week of a variety of seafood that are lower in mercury.
Please enjoy this recipe in my cookbook, “Nancy’s recipes for Life,” available in my Linwood office location and at Capellas Oil and Vinegar store in Ocean City.
Lemon Garlic Cod
Ingredients:
● 4 (6-ounce pieces of) fresh cod
● 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
● 1/2 tablespoon of light butter
● 1 tablespoon of olive oil
● Juice of 1 lemon
● 2 tablespoons of chopped flat-leaf parsley
Directions:
● Preheat the oven to 400.
● Place fish in a baking dish large enough to hold the fish in one layer.
● Season fish with a little sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
● Place the butter and olive oil in a small non-stick skillet. h eat on medium-low.
● Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
● Add lemon parsley, then remove from the heat.
● Drizzle garlic mixture over top of the fish.
● Bake for 12-14 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork. This recipe serves 4.
Nutritional info per serving:
● Calories: 183
● Calories from Fat: 53
● Total Fat: 5.9 grams
● Cholesterol: 67 mg
● Sodium: 122 mg
● Carbohydrates: 1.8 grams
● Fiber: 0.1 grams
● Protein: 30.6 grams
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
What do you think about when you hear the name McAllister? One thing that comes to mind is the distinctive green and yellow trucks. The McAllister name is part of the fabric of our community dating back to 1876.
It all began in Philadelphia in 1876 with Tom McAllister’s great grandfather, richard McAllister. h e began selling wood for heat and ice for refrigeration. The business moved into South Jersey and became known as McAllister Fuels. By the 1950s, they delivered heating oil during the winter and maintained the heaters that fueled them. In the 1980s, air conditioning became the norm and
McAllister Fuels encompassed home environmental comfort by adding air conditioning sources, now operating year-round.
Today, under the leadership of Tom McAllister and his father George McAllister, the primary focus of the business is maintaining and repairing heaters, air conditioners and hot water heaters. All of their technicians are certified to ensure the highest
quality service. Their most important value is ensuring that all of their customers are satisfied with their professional services.
“I take customer satisfaction personally,” explains Tom McAllister. “I’m not going anywhere and I will make it right. We believe in old school customer service.”
Throughout the pandemic McAllister remained open, continuing to provide h VAC repair service and installations.
"Since our inception in 1876. We have been through two World Wars. the Great Depression, the Great recession and two pandemics. So challenging times and adversity are not new to us," shares Tom McAllister.
Interestingly, the McAllister family also developed the amusement park business in both Atlantic City and Coney Island. Born 1869 in New York City, George C. Tilyou, a relative of the McAllister Family, was a realtor and showman. After visiting the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893, he brought Coney Island its first Ferris wheel. Four years later, he opened Steeplechase Park. Patrons young and old enjoyed the many attractions the park offered, including one of its most popular rides, the steeplechase horse race.
In 1908, Tilyou purchased Auditorium Pier in Atlantic City and renamed it Steeplechase Pier. Modeled after the park in Coney Island, the site became a major attraction for young visitors before closing in 1988.
Today, with over 40 professional service members and a dedicated staff, McAllister remains a household name throughout South Jersey.
You can reach McAllister The Service Company by calling 800 757-4122 or visit their website at mcservice.com.
Tom McAllisterWinter is drawing to a close. Will your equipment be able to keep up if the summer is abnormally warm like winter was?
We have been Heating and Cooling South Jersey for Nearly 150 Years!
Act fast - offer ends March 31, 2023. $1,600 value
Not to be combined with other with any other offer or on previous purchases.
The fun starts on Saturday, March 11, when the Boardwalk and Downtown merchants in Ocean City team up to give shoppers a summer preview during the one-day Market Madness event at the Ocean City Music Pier. h ours for the event will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
609-380-0131
The spring season continues with Girls Weekend from March 24 to March 26, and tickets are on sale now for the popular Fashion Show that opens the event. The show will be at 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 24, at the Ocean City Yacht Club. Tickets for the Fashion Show are $35 each and available now at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.
Girls Weekend features hotel and bed-and-breakfast packages, dining offers, shopping discounts, prizes, yoga and wellness classes, craft projects and demonstrations at various locations throughout Ocean City.
The OC-Con Comic Book and Memorabilia Festival will be held March 2526 at the Ocean City Music Pier. Show hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 25, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 26.
registration is now open to vendors. If you are interested, please register online through recDesk. Tables are
$50 per table with a maximum of two per vendor. registration is also open for costumed “superhero” runners and obstacle course racers. Visit www.ocnjcon.com for complete information on all of OC-Con.
Save these dates as the family fun continues throughout April and May:
● The Great Egg h unts (April 1 and April 8): The event invites children to stop by participating boardwalk stores in their search for eggs and treats.
● The Easter Dueling Pianos Show and Fashion Stroll (April 9) Traditional family events at the Music Pier.
● Doo Dah Parade (April 15): A fun downtown and boardwalk parade that features a brigade of basset hounds.
● Sports Memorabilia Show (April 29): Vendors interested in participating can register online through recDesk.
● Martin Z. Mollusk Day (May 5): Ocean City’s mascot seeks his shadow to determine if we’ll have another early summer.
● Spring Block Party (May 6): Don’t miss the premier spring event along Asbury Avenue from Fifth Street to 14th Street.
News about the potential health impact of radio frequency radiation (rF waves) from the 5G nodes.
“It’s like aiming a gun directly at families and children,” said Steven Petrun.
health Organization and the Food and Drug Administration, have concluded that human exposure to rF waves is safe.
By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer
Aplan to install 5G cellular antennas on the roof of a 34th Street office building has some neighbors worried that they will be exposed to a health risk.
At 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, the Ocean City Planning Board is scheduled to consider an application by Cellco Partnership, working on behalf of Verizon Wireless, for a minor site plan approval to install wireless telecommunications antennas on the roof of the Compass Building at 34th Street and West Avenue.
The proposal is a permitted use within the Gateway zone, according to documents on file with the Ocean City Planning Board. The project site, at 3337-39 haven Ave., is within a couple hundred feet of residential property.
Steve and Kathy Petrun enjoy their Ocean City home during the spring and summer. The couple expressed concerns to Shore Local
Petrun said that while 5G pods are safe from a distance, he’s worried the direct waves in such close proximity to people could cause cancer or other health issues.
Concerned neighbors say that the Federal Communications Commission, which has deemed the 5G antennas safe, does not do enough to protect the public. The human exposure standards they use from the National Council on radiation Protection (NCrP) were adopted in 1996 and have not been updated since.
The FCC reports via its website that the 5G network uses many more and smaller base stations than 4G because the waves travel shorter distances and don’t pass through objects. The technology requires clusters to be close to where people live, work and spend their time.
“At the same time, these higher frequency rF waves are less able to penetrate the body than lower frequency waves, so in theory they might be less likely to have any potential health effects. But so far this issue has not been well studied,” reads the website.
Numerous entities, including the World
The Ocean City Planning Board was set to discuss the 5G clusters on March 1. however, themeeting has been post to April 5. Until then, the neighbors, including the Petruns, have been asked to hold their questions and comments.
“Millions of tourists come down in the summers and so they need ‘an enhancement of services’ from internet providers and cell services,” said Kathryn Pretrun. “But that doesn’t account for the small children living directly across from these antennas and such. Think about the locals.”
Also of concern is the look of the clusters and the effects of active construction in their neck of the woods. “We come to Ocean City because of its charm, and that charm is being taken away because of the 5G,” said Steve Petrun.
The clusters would be built on the roof of the 21-foot-tall Compass Building, and no variances are required, according to official documents. The plans indicate that the proposed antenna and screening will not exceed the height of the two-story structure.
Ocean City hosted 5G educational sessions at City hall in October 2022, which were
also available on Zoom. The Utility Advisory Commission supports the transition to 5G, which powers security systems, medical tech, emergency alerts and smart watches/tablets, along with cellphones.
Even if the Ocean City Planning Board were to object, it would have no say in the matter as far as health issues are concerned, the FCC says.
According to the FCC website, federal statute “preempts local decisions premised directly or indirectly on the environmental effects of radio frequency (r F) emissions, assuming that the provider is in compliance with the FCC’s rF rules.”
The site was originally approved as a bank with drive-thru service.
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.
By Fred Miller
Women’s h istory Month is a good time to review the history of South Jersey’s female ocean lifeguards. During the first three-quarters of the 20th century, with few
exceptions, the position of ocean lifeguard was a male only job. In 1975, the Atlantic City Beach Patrol hired its first female lifeguard, Virginia Gaye Kelly, and the following summer the Ocean City Beach Patrol hired their first female lifeguard, Judy Lichtner. Since then female lifeguards have played an increasingly important role in bather protection in South Jersey.
During the summer of 1922, Ocean City came within an hour of becoming the first ocean resort in the country to hire female lifeguards. On July 11, 1922, all the members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol went on strike because of the low pay. The next day the Philadelphia Bulletin grabbed readers’ attention with this headline: “Ocean City Beach Guards on Strike; May Employ Women.”
Ocean City’s mayor, Joseph G. Champion, threatened to hire women lifeguards if the men did not return to the beach. The women, all members of the Ambassador Swimming Club in Atlantic City, said, “In the interests of humanity, they’d gladly serve as guards in Ocean City.”
No females were hired because Mayor Champion agreed to raise the lifeguards’ pay from $60 a month to $100.
Wildwood became the first
municipality in the country to hire female ocean lifeguards. In 1933, the Wildwood Beach Patrol hired Florence Newton and Mae Ottey to watch over their bathers.
Ocean City Mayor h arry h eadley and OCBP Captain Jack G. Jernee disagreed with Wildwood’s decision to employ female lifeguards.
h eadley said, “Our visitors want safety, not fades. With men's lifeguards they know they are getting the best protection possible.” Jernee told reporters, “No woman can take the punishment handed out by a struggling, husky man when he is drowning. I’ll stack my guards up against any woman or women in the world. Given allaround tests such as are required at any seashore, and my patrol will win out.”
Times have changed since the 1930s. Females now play an important role in bather protection on the beaches of South Jersey.
The following female lifeguards have been inducted in the Ocean City Beach Patrol h all of Fame: Kristie Brown Chisholm, Erin Curry, Stephanie Wilson Faber, Sara Griffith Sadowski, Stephanie h auck, Carolyn Stephanik h iener, Melissa Koch Jeck, Kim McKay, Anne Copeland Merrill, Elise Thieler, Jenna Townsend, Wendy Wallace Cerulio, and Joanna Weber.
Eustace Mita, the part owner of Gillian's Wonderland Pier and owner of Icona resorts, is asking Ocean City to support a proposal to build a $150 million luxury beachfront hotel where the 5th and 6th street parking lots are now located.
Mita pitched his idea to City Council at its Thursday, Feb. 23 meeting, explaining that Ocean City would have to sell city-owned land, aka the large public parking lots across from the Boardwalk, for his plan to become reality.
Additionally, the city would have to either amend its zoning ordinance or grant a variance to Icona resorts because hotel development is not permitted on the Boardwalk.
The proposed resort would include 325 rooms and be reminiscent of a grand coastal, “old seashore” style with a modern twist. It would also include family-friendly amenities, restaurants, retail and a beachfront pool.
“We haven’t had a new hotel here in half a century,” said Mita.
h e noted that numerous old hotels and motels were converted into condominiums in recent decades, causing a boom in Ocean City’s rental real estate market. As a result, far fewer hotel and motel rooms are available, forcing vacationers to either find an AirBnB or rent a property.
Mita said the development will immediately become the largest single tax ratable in Ocean City, producing millions in tax revenue for such things as road and infrastructure projects.
The timeline for the project is still unclear, although Mita would like to move ahead “as fast as possible.” In addition to needing a zoning change, the project would also require a series of regulatory approvals. If all hurdles are cleared, the hotel could
be built by 2026-2027.
“It’s a beautiful presentation. But we’ve got a long road ahead,” Gillian said to Mita, referring to the hotel plans.
Gillian assured the public that although the hotel would be built adjacent to Wonderland Pier, Gillian would not be involved with Icona resorts’ development of the nearby lot.
Mita addressed the project’s
potential to boost the city’s tourism market by increasing available hotel rooms in America's Greatest Family resort.
Councilman Keith h artzell expressed concerns over the family-friendly image of Ocean City, and how a new resort on the Boardwalk could impact the atmosphere of that area. Specifically, guests could get rowdy or bring alcohol on the Boardwalk, making families fearful of investing in a vacation on the island.
Mita, an Ocean City resident, is the president and owner of Icona resorts. Icona previously purchased and renovated Avalon’s Golden Inn, Diamond Beach’s The Grand and Cape May’s Palace h otel.
“We’re happy to see new ideas. There’s a lot to digest, a lot to follow,” said Council President Pete Madden. “It’s in its infancy. We have an idea. We’ll watch, listen and learn.”
saturday
March
favorites, hang them up and bring them with you to your next home
Resume Yard Work
Are you considering selling your home this spring? Now is the perfect time to get ready. Use these tips to prepare yourself and get your home ready to wow potential buyers.
Spring is an ideal time to sell a home. It is a well-known fact that both the number of buyers and inventory increase during the months of March, April, May and June. This often means that your home could be going against some stiff competition. here are some simple real estate tips to help your spring listing stand out.
Stay Ahead of the Home Inspection
If you know that a home inspector will find something wrong with your home, it is advantageous to get it fixed before the inspection. Potential buyers will appreciate the updates, and it will probably cost you less to have it fixed beforehand. It also reduces the possibility of buyers placing certain contingencies on the contract.
Declutter Indoor Spaces
Decluttering can be stressful and difficult. here are some ideas to simplify your quest.
With sentimental clutter, certainly you will want to preserve the family memories by living in the present while remembering the past. Scan and upload paper memories. Awards, photos, artwork, essays and other treasured paper documents can still be kept and remembered without physically taking up space.
Scan the items and upload the images to a cloud photo service. This way they don't take up physical space and are accessible at any time without risk of losing them. hang onto
March is the time to clean up what winter left behind. remove all dead leaves and debris from your property. Don't allow overgrown vegetation to block windows and sidewalks. Trim down large bushes and branches to showcase the exterior of your home. Plant some spring flowers in the front, either in flower boxes, pottery, or in a bed, to add a pop of color and to increase your first impression and curb appeal.
Deep
The exterior is just as important as the interior, just like the cover of a book. Power wash the siding, sidewalk, and driveway. A potential buyer will be much more interested if the siding and walkways are all freshly cleaned. Power washing is also an inexpensive improvement. If you are up to it, you can rent a machine and do it yourself.
The days are becoming brighter and so should your decor. Accent pieces can be easily replaced to incorporate soft spring colors (yellows, pinks, lavenders, light blues, even turquoise).
Bright sofa pillows will lighten up a room and make potential buyers feel welcome. Consider painting cabinets and small furniture pieces with a pop of color. Paint can be a cost-effective way to breathe new life into your home. You will be surprised at the transformation a simple can of paint can do for your home.
These tips will help you set the stage for a successful spring sale of your home.
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!"
Day to plant anything that may be vulnerable to a surprise frost. Now the good news, not only can cool-season plants handle lower temperatures, some of these hardy vegetables will taste even better after a light frost.
After a flip of the calendar page and a few warm spells thrown in as a teaser, many of us are counting the days until spring. If you’re a gardener, visions of tomato and basil sandwiches are dancing in your head. Well, I have good news and bad news for you. While homegrown tomatoes must remain in our dreams for a while, cool-season vegetables get the green light for planting in March.
Spring officially starts March 20, and most of us can hardly wait. But unfortunately, the weather doesn’t magically offer exclusively warm days without the threat of frost or snow.
According to Farmers Almanac, the average last frost date should be around March 31 in our area, but New Jersey weather seems to enjoy a good April Fool’s joke. Traditionally, it’s safest to wait until Mother’s
Carrots, spinach, peas, onions, parsley, radishes, and chives are among the hardiest herbs and vegetables that you can plant from seed directly in the garden this time of year. You will get your hint from reading the seed packets. Often for these cold-hardy tough guys, you will see a phrase like “plant as soon as the soil can be worked.” As long as the ground has thawed, and isn’t frozen solid, you are good to go with those hardy veggies. A few weeks later, in mid-to-late March, you can plant things like arugula, lettuce, beets, and seed potatoes. Their labels will probably read, “plant a few weeks before last expected frost.” h old off on things like peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, corn, and basil.
Of course, you can start herbs and vegetables indoors, or buy seedlings that have been started for you at a garden nursery. Just be sure the seedlings have been “hardened off” first, since the drastic change from
a cozy home or greenhouse to the great outdoors can shock your coddled plants. These cool-season seedlings include broccoli, kale, cabbage, kohlrabi, and cauliflower.
Though the threat of snow can cause a gardener some angst, remember that snow can actually act like a cozy blanket insulating your crops. A light frost can also cause cool-season vegetables to become sweeter as their starches convert to sugars to protect them from the cold. This is especially true of vegetables that have been planted at the other end of the gardening season in late summer or fall. A layer of mulch around your plants will give them some protection, but if a hard freeze
is in the forecast (below 28 degrees), a covering would be a good idea until the worst part of the freeze has passed. In a pinch, you can throw an inverted clear plastic bin or blanket over your plants. If using a plastic covering such as a tarp or shower curtain, be sure the plastic is not touching the plant, as this can harm them. During the day and once the threat of hard freeze is over, remove the coverings.
Soon enough spring will be here, and frosty days will be a memory well-forgotten. Beach days and rows of Jersey corn will ensue. Until then, plant your cool-season vegetables for some savory and delicious home-grown meals.
What’s your favorite cool-season vegetable? Shore Local News would love to hear from our readers. Kindly send your comments, pictures, and questions to: shorelocalgardener@ gmail.com.
Tammy Thornton lives in Linwood with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
culinary world.
By Scott Cronick
If you ever worked in the food and beverage industry, you know that divine intervention is sometimes needed to get through a shift.
In some cases, a chef’s or cook’s story could be as simple as starting off working in a diner during high school, deciding to go to culinary school and then working in kitchens until you feel comfortable enough to settle in at one.
In many more cases, that journey is far more complex, a zigzag of paths and misdirection of passions that hopefully end up being the amazing and satisfying career you thought it would be when watching chefs battle on the Food Network or seeing someone you admire make working in a kitchen look glamorous.
For Michael Brennan, the latter is certainly true.
And when you hear him tell his story, it sounds like it could be adapted into a movie, but you realize his road to opening Cardinal – a contemporary American restaurant on the Orange Loop in Atlantic City this spring - is likely a common one among those who choose, or fall into, this crazy
Like many of us, Brennan was influenced by his father. Although I never wanted to be a TastyKake man because it was way too much work, a young Michael Brennan saw Thomas Brennan working as a food and beverage executive in the casino biz, dining on a grand scale in upscale places like the former Portofino at Trump Marina, where he was taken back into the kitchen to meet the chefs among all of the shiny stainless steel amidst nonstop action.
That interest in cooking evolved when he would watch the Food Network with his sisters. he was particularly impressed watching Bobby Flay throw conventions out the window when he would jump on his cutting board after winning an episode of “Iron Chef.”
“I wanted to be T h AT!” Brennan recalled. “That was when this show was transitioning from this revered Japanese cooking show to the American market, and he was so disrespectful and now bowing to his opponent. It was one of the most malleable moments for me.”
This scared his father greatly.
“It was huge red flag for him because when you are in the industry, you know the turmoil this profession can cause, so he would bring me in the kitchen and say, ‘ h ey chef, tell my son when was the last day you got a day off,’ or ‘Tell Michael when was the last time you spent a holiday with your family.’ The chef would turn and say, ‘I don’t have time for this. I am busy.’”
And that – along with the hot pans, flame-throwing broilers and chefs cursing like sailors - hooked Michael Brennan even more.
After high school, Brennan’s only real-life experience was working at a ski resort and waterpark near Scranton, Pa., and after moving to Philadelphia, he realized his “savings” weren’t going to last as long as he predicted.
h e needed a job. Badly.
So, with a badly tied tie, wrinkled slacks and shirt, he walked into Le Bec Fin, one of the greatest Philadelphia restaurants of all time.
Luck would have it he would walk in as the very intolerant and often irritable Owner and Chef Georges Perrier – a celebrity chef before there were celebrity chefs – was berating a hostess with a cigar hanging out of his mouth.
“What the f—k do you want?” Perrier grumbled to Brennan.
“Chef, I heard you are the best, and I want to work for the best,” Brennan said.
“Come back tomorrow,” Perrier said.
And Brennan did just that, starting as a busser and learning the ropes during restaurant Week, where 400 to 600 people were dining a night. One night, the youngster got a taste of what it was like to work for a world-class chef.
“I was learning about amuses and canapes, and one night I was serving the amuse and Chef grabbed me and said, ‘What are you serving?’ And I couldn’t remember. And he took them and threw them across the kitchen and said to the chef, ‘ h e doesn’t know what the f---ing amuse bouche is!’ And I told him, ‘Chef, it’s
a chestnut crème with persimmon gelee.’ And he told me to grab more and serve them. At that moment it hit me that there was something cool and theatrical about this world. That it’s not just about eating food for nourishment.”
Brennan eventually left the intense Le Bec Fin and applied at the famed Lacroix restaurant at The rittenhouse, where he was hired to be a coat check person, but not before experiencing the kinder side of the business.
“The hr woman named Barbara was this very nice, Jewish kind of grandmother figure, and she noticed that I didn’t wear a coat that day, even though it was like 45 degrees with a wind chill,” Brennan remembered. “She gave me a card that said Boyd’s on it and told me to stop there before I went home.”
When Brennan arrived, it was like a scene out of “Pretty Woman,” where he was met at the door by a salesman asking if he was Michael, who then outfitted him with a Moscow-style, black wool trenchcoat, leather cashmere gloves and hat that fit perfectly.
“I told him I couldn’t afford this, and then when I looked at the tag I told him I absolutely couldn’t afford it, and he said, ‘The rittenhouse took care of this. It’s yours.’ And I was just amazed. I still have the coat.”
After making nice money at coat check, the 19-year-old eventually served as host at Lacroix, realizing the standards needed for a great restaurant as soon as people walked in the door, before becoming the youngest server to not have to work the floor in other capacities.
But the kitchen kept calling him.
↘Continued on 40
So, Brennan asked to work in the kitchen doing whatever they needed – for free! – during the day, and then returning to serve at night. After some guidance from his sous chef to get serious about cooking, Brennan applied to the Culinary Institute of America at hyde Park, where he was surprised to be accepted.
For his “externship,” Brennan, like his peers, all wanted to work in a Michelin Star restaurant. h e knew a server at the 11 Madison in New York City, and called in a favor to meet the chef for an opportunity.
h is call consisted of vegetable prep, particularly finding 10 pounds of perfect carrots out of 100 pounds that he then had to peel and make sure they were prepped exquisitely for the carrot tartare
“At one point, a peel flew to the ground, and it was like a slow-motion movie shot where everyone stares at it falling, and then a hand slams down next to my cutting board by the sous chef,” Brennan said.
“Why is your station a s—t show?” the chef asked Brennan.
“I am sorry chef,” Brennan replied. Then after putting a hotel pan on top of his cutting board, the same chef returned angrily, but instructed Brennan to rub his finger across the cutting board and then on his tongue,
and Brennan tasted a metallic flavor.
“It was one of those learning moments when you realize you are in the right profession,” Brennan said. “ he was angry, but he taught me why you don’t do that.”
During another initiation of cooking a French omelet for the sous chef – the others used lavish ingredients like caviar and white truffles – Brennan chose cultured goat butter and simply served a fluffy omelet with sea salt and chives. The chef was impressed and asked Brennan to not only have the externship but to work there on weekends.
h e returned to school to share the great news but then realized he was making a mistake.
“All of my friends were going to be in New York at Michelin restaurants, so what was going to set me apart?” Brennan said. “So, I decided to take an offer from the Sea Island resort in Georgia. That experience at 11 Madison changed my perspective. It’s incredible and amazing what goes into that kind of restaurant, but it wasn’t what I thought about when I thought about cooking.”
Brennan’s experience in Georgia cemented his passion to be a chef, working crazy hours in various outlets for four months straight without a day off and partying every night. It was there he met Shane Whiddon, an amazing chef who called Brennan after he returned to school to ask him to join his team opening a new restaurant in Charleston. S.C.
“I lived with Shane at his mom’s house and we tested recipes, hired
staff, and eventually opened Union Provisions, a Southern tapas place, and we fumbled right out of the gate,” Brennan said. “Scathing reviews, you name it. The concept didn’t work.”
Lesson learned.
Brennan eventually returned to Lacroix as a server, but he found himself disappointed in himself, feeling defeated, depressed and void of the passion that propelled him.
“I felt like a failure,” he said.
The depression was heavy to the point that Brennan’s sisters intervened, telling him “to snap out of this or it will end up very bad, and you will hurt a lot of people.”
After seeing Brennan’s arms were marked from him causing self harm, Lacroix’s chef stepped in to help, eventually offering Brennan a chance to show his stuff for one night at a supper club at Audra Claire that Brennan called the Cardinal Supper Club, named after his late grandmother’s obsession with cardinals combined with Brennan’s modern take on her classic recipes.
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“She loved cardinals and had birdbaths and feeders, you name it,” Brennan remembered. “When she died, I remember sitting in the garden and these cardinals landing next to me, and it’s a memory that has always stuck with me. So, the Cardinal Supper Club wasn’t just to replicate her recipes, but to interpret them.”
Its overwhelming success that night led Thomas Brennan to ask his son to open a restaurant together. After finding the courage to work in Lacroix’s kitchen again, the Brennans eventually found a spot in Ventnor, signed a lease and opened Cardinal Bistro, a great restaurant that impressed customers for three years.
But the Brennans wanted more. They wanted to expand.
“Cardinal Bistro was a proof of concept for this different style of food at the shore and plating and service and atmosphere,” Brennan said. “But we knew we would need a bigger space, a liquor license and more to be a real business.”
So, the Brennans sold the Cardinal Bistro space to prepare for the future and worked with developers Evan Sanchez and Zenith Shah to originally renovate the legendary Mama Mott’s space on New York Avenue in Atlantic
City in 2019. After slow movement, the realization of costs associated with that makeover and eventually COVID, Brennan worked at jobs including as a server at Il Mulino and eventually executive chef at Josie Kelly’s in Somers Point for more than two years.
“It was at Josie Kelly’s where I graduated from being a cook to learning to be a chef,” Brennan said. “As a cook, you are living the life and partying and getting drunk and then repeating every day. As a chef, you are a leader, an inspiration, so you have to conduct yourself the way you want those around you to conduct themselves. When I left, I felt like I took their food program to another level, and they were grateful for the time we had together. But Atlantic City was calling me.”
Brennan continued to talk to Sanchez and Shah about his passion to be in Atlantic City, particularly the Orange Loop.
“I live on the Orange Loop, my dad’s grandmother used to live in the apartments on St. James near the Boardwalk, my mom’s dad had a barbershop on Pacific and Tennessee. There is a reason this area has developed the way it has, and I want to be part of it.”
Eventually, it was announced Bourre on New York Avenue was closing, and when they held their last show in December, Brennan, Sanchez and Shah were moving tables and chairs around to prepare for Brennan’s second restaurant: Cardinal, which will vastly differ from Cardinal Bistro in so many ways.
For starters, Cardinal will be about 120 seats, 90 more than the bistro; the menu will be different; and there
will be two bars as well as outside space.
“Ventnor was an arts project and proof of concept and a way to establish the brand and name and inspire people to want this type of dining,” Brennan saids. “Now, this will be a viable business. This is what we have been practicing for. Ventnor was the farm league where we were developing and doing cool things, but this is the major leagues being on New York Avenue right across from the Beer hall and rhythm & Spirits, near Anchor rock Club and the historic boardwalk. This is where I always wanted to be. This is where the stories start now. Everything we have done before has prepared us for this.”
A new Cardinal flies renovations are happening in a big way at the former Bourre with new furniture, the elimination of the stage and banquettes, more natural lighting, a brighter paint palette, plus lots of vegetation and foliage to present the notion of nature taking over an industrial space.
Some of the greatest hits will be back like Brennan’s fried Brussels sprouts and roasted beet salad, but the chef is looking forward to showing his approachable, creative cuisine
that will be paired by a beverage program overseen by industry veteran Carl Fleck.
“ h e has an incredible mindset to take what we did at Bistro and apply it to another segment,” Brennan said. “Instead of working with avocados and tomatoes, he’s dealing with distilled spirits, beer, wine, cordials and mocktails. From a cooking standpoint, I don’t want people to get into a habit of trying this or that because they are told to, or they are my signature items. I want them to experience everything and figure out what they want to eat. Everything will be more approachable than Bistro. It will be upscale casual, and no one will be intimidated by fancy words that they don’t know.”
Brennan also wants Cardinal to be more than a place where people go to eat.
“I don’t want to be known as a restaurant but as an incubator for hospitality professionals,” he said. “We are looking for people who want to grow with us an in this industry, and we want to support them however we can whether it’s career advancement or education or maybe there’s a photographer who is a server who wants to do a menu shoot. I want them to have some ownership in what we do here. It has to be more than a place to get a paycheck.”
With Thomas Brennan as general manager and Shah and Sanchez working on financials as well as community interaction, Cardinal sounds like it will be a special place.
But, like every restaurant on the planet, it may need that divine intervention I mentioned earlier.
“ right before we opened Bistro, my mother told me that a cardinal symbolizes something watching down on you,” Brennan said. “It’s a guardian angel, a spirit animal. I told her I think we chose the right name because anyone crazy enough to open a restaurant is going to need some help from above.”
Amen to that.
Scott Cronick is an awardwinning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades. He hosts a daily radio show – "Off The Press with Scott Cronick" - 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com, and he also coowns Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall in Atlantic City, while working on various projects, including charitable efforts, throughout the area. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.
11 SINGLE-FAMILY EXECUTIVE HOMES FROM $479,999
What does cheetah print, babydoll tees, flip phones and infinity sign tattoos have in common? They were all popular at one point (namely 2012), but have fallen out of fashion in recent years.
Trends come and go, so it's important to be classy and timeless in your style, and that includes your wedding.
h ere’s your guide to what’s out and in this wedding season:
Out: Smashing Cake In Each Others’ Faces
This tradition has been long overdone. Wedding influencers have been calling couples to cut the cake with class, preserving the expensive hair and makeup of the bride. You could even enjoy cupcakes or a nontraditional dessert, instead of a cake.
Out: Cringey Signs
remember in 2010 when everyone had the ‘Keep Calm and Carry on” saying everywhere?! That’s evolved over the years, but the cheesy phrases have got to go. It’s okay to have a wedding theme, but make it original!
the bride or maid of honor make their remarks, pour some bubbly over the glasses to create a luxurious waterfall. It’s a beautiful moment and super cool.
In: Dress Codes
For the sake of aesthetic, wedding planners are including guest dress codes in the invitation. If it's a garden party, require guests to wear florals or pastels. Some brides are even doing a metallic theme, with gold finishes and lots of beautiful glasses!
In: Unplugged Weddings
In: Meaningful Flowers
Flowers can cost an arm and leg for weddings, so brides have opted for homegrown or hand-picked flowers from a local farm.
Out: Garters
For a classier approach, ask the photographer to take some more intimate photos in the limousine or the hotel elevator.
In: Champagne Towers
It’s your big day, and the best way to celebrate is with a toast! Stack some gorgeous glasses in the shape of a pyramid and before the father of
Make sure that guests know your technology preferences and ask the ushers to enforce the rules. Staying in the moment will help you feel more connected and grounded, allowing for you to feel all your emotions and love for your partner.
Out: Open-Air Tents
We get it; you want all the beauty of an outdoor wedding without the risk of inclement weather. Opt for either a fully-outside ceremony and reception or move the event indoors. Tents just feel so COVID-19, right?!
In: Specialty Drinks
Everyone loves a fun cocktail, especially if it's themed toward the bride and groom. reflect on what makes this
couple unique and theme a drink after it in collaboration with the bartenders. Maybe if the bride is from Georgia and the groom is from Tennessee, do a peach-whisky sour. If your wedding is beachy and coastal, try a local take on a Miami Breeze or Sex on the Beach.
Out: Family-Style Food
The 2010s made weddings inclusive and comforting with huge barbeque platters and sloppy sides. Your big day shouldn’t feel like a fastfood feast. Splurge on some gourmet cuisine and your guests (and photographers) will thank you.
An award winning venue with a unique blend of elegance and rustic charm.
By Jeff Whitaker
Ijust saw a beautiful picture of a rainbow. You might think that isn’t very impressive. We’ve all seen a rainbow. But there was something different about this rainbow. I’ve never seen anything like it. The picture was taken from 30 thousand feet above the earth. The difference in this photo was that it was a full circle. here on earth we only see the arc or half of the rainbow. In reality when you get the larger perspective, the rainbow is actually a full circle. Amazing! Unless we take ourselves farther away from the scene, we are never rewarded with the full beauty of the rainbow.
It got me thinking that this parallels much of life. Many times we only see half of the picture. It may be the encouraging or it may be the discouraging half. But the point is, we rarely see the entire picture. If you are anything like me, it’s so easy to find yourself caught up in the moment. You get overly excited about something or overly stressed about something else. It’s easy to do. Perspective is something we need to be reminded of constantly. That’s not to say we shouldn’t get excited about the positive or find ourselves disappointed or down about other events in life. It’s life and it happens. But this is where balance plays a role. Just as it is with the rainbow, in life it’s never a true picture of a circumstance or situation when you are too close to it. So, how do you
and I maintain a healthy balance? One way is to find others in our lives who can give us an outside perspective on a given situation. We weren’t meant to live our lives in isolation. If there is a clear negative that came out of the recent pandemic aside from the health risks and effects, it’s that being isolated from one another is not good. We all need that interaction and outside perspective from people who may be in a position to see things from another point of view.
In addition, I’ve found that time is a great revealer of so much. Steve Jobs in giving a commencement address not long before he passed away told the graduates that “you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future.”
Two words to remember: perspective and balance. h ope this speaks to someone reading my column this week. And remember this, the next time you’re fortunate enough to witness a rainbow.
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
casino games but the temptation is just too great for her.
have the following compound annual growth rates*:
By Eric Reich
In the world of casinos, there are quite a few bets that would be considered a “sucker bet”. That’s a bet that seems like a good idea with enticing odds that almost never works out. In the world of investing, one of the all-time sucker bets is market timing. On the surface, market timing seems like a pretty easy thing to do. In reality, it is nearly impossible, and the odds of losing money are nearly certain. Why then do we constantly try to place sucker bets when it be casinos or investing? Marketing and media coverage is certainly one of the primary drivers. At the casinos, my wife is immediately drawn to the “Wheel of Fortune” slots. Yes, she knows slots are one of the classic sucker bets in a casino, but whether it’s the flashing lights or simply the lure of a big jackpot, she plays them every time we go. The odds are surely not in her favors vs. other
Market timing is so dangerous because honestly, it just seems pretty easy to do. I hear on a weekly basis, clients try to rationalize why they want to wait to get into the markets or why they think this year is going to be bad, good, etc. They rationalize that sitting in cash for a while can’t hurt because “at least I won’t lose any money”. The reality is yes, you are losing money by sitting in cash. In periods of higher inflation, you are losing the inflation rate minus the small amount you are being credited in your cash account. Last year this could have been as much as 7-9% loss. When economic news is virtually all bad and remember that “bad news sells” in terms of viewership or readership, then suddenly everyone becomes market or economic experts.
So what’s the big deal? If I’m wrong, and I get into the market a little later than everyone else or I come in and out a few times at least I can sleep at night, right? Well, let’s look at what a big deal it really is and maybe you’ll be losing more sleep than you thought. h ere is what the real data tells us.
If you invested $100,000 in the S&P 500 on January 1, 1995 and left it there through February 28, 2022, you would
● Stayed invested = 8.7%
● Missed the best 10 days = 5.6%
● Missed the best 20 days = 3.6%
● Missed the best 40 days = 0.3%
● Missed the best 50 days = -1.3%
That’s a 10% per year return difference for only missing 50 days. Do you honestly believe you know which 50 days out of the next 26 years are going to be the best ones? When you put the data on paper, it seems ridiculous that anyone would even try to time the market, yet it’s a conversation we have all the time with clients. Missing the best 40 days assuming you started with $100,000 cost you close to $800,000 in lost earnings. I often joke with clients that while fees are very important, I’d much rather pay a small fee than lose out on close to $800,000 in this case. Always make sure you’re focusing on the big picture.
Turn off the noise, stop trying to guess when a good or bad time is to invest, and simply invest your money in low cost, well diversified portfolios and leave it alone. The market will do all the work for you and save you from making yet another sucker bet.
*Source: Fidelity. 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.
Been wanting to do this article for a while now since moving back East and discovering all the talented women making music here at the Jersey Shore and beyond. Meet several of them here, in their own words.
Doreen Taylor: “It’s great to be chatting with you, Doug and thanks for inquiring about everything I’ve been up to since being dubbed “Atlantic City’s Sweetheart” because of my successful one-woman show in the casinos several years ago!
Since those days, I crossed over to mainstream music and released my first solo country-rock album “Magic,” which won coveted “Suggested Artist of the Year” award from the Song of
I toured the country, selling out every venue from Philadelphia to Los Angeles. My music has been hand-selected by Bose, Sharp Electronics, and home shopping network QVC to promote their products.
I’ve been a Celebrity Advocate for countless charitable causes and was the face for brands like Failte Vodka and hades Footwear.
My crossover, adult contemporary single "Toy" charted on Billboard's h ot 100 (in the Top 50), reaching No. 31 on the Adult Contemporary chart after receiving heavy airplay on radio stations nationwide.
In 2016, I was chosen to create and perform a new national anthem in honor of the US National Parks' Centennial, “Colors Of The USA". I produced and starred in the Broadway musical "Sincerely Oscar" which had a 52-performance run at Theatre row on 42nd Street. I’m currently co-host of new weekly talk show, "Take 2! with Doreen And Pete" on Philadelphia's No. 1 talk radio station, Talk 860 WWDB AM.
Atlantic City really opened great doors for me, and I’m so thankful for the time I spent performing there!” www.doreentsylormusic.com.
Karen Wallo: "Music is my anchor, my joy in life. This was something I realized at age 5.
My first instrument was an organ; playing by ear came naturally. I'll always remember my choir teacher in seventh grade telling me that I was going to be a professional singer or organist when I grew up. She was right!
I’ve toured the USA and Canada with a national act The Box Tops and lived in Austria, singing with an original band, Mona Lisa.
I’ve sang professionally with countless bands, from rock to wedding/corporate, since age 21. Currently I’m singing in Shore Bet Band (five-piece, classic rock) and Shore Bet Duo. I co-front these bands with a talented male vocalist.
The other thing in my life that brings me as much joy as singing, is my painting. In both my careers as an artist (and) singer/musician, I find myself thinking how blessed I am that I get paid for having this much fun! There is no greater feeling than turning on an entire audience and watching everyone's troubles melt away.
I tend to spend as much time offstage, working with the crowd, as I do onstage. My Sennheiser wireless microphone was the best gift I ever received, many moons ago.
A CD I recorded in Las Vegas was selling commercially out of Whole Foods Market for a time. Everything I create is dedicated to reducing animal suffering in our world. A passion of mine is saving imperiled wildlife, particularly wolves, wild horses and sea mammals. Currently I’m in the studio recording original material.
My art manager, who’s a phenomenal songwriter, and I are merging my artwork with original songs to bring the viewer deeper into the painting. It's a unique blend of music and art. We are called "Sisbro."
The greatest lesson I learned in my life as an artist is to never, ever give up on one's dreams. Life may throw curve balls, but I choose to press on despite any challenges I have had to face. As long as there’s one person in this world enjoying my songs or my artwork, I have done my job.” https:// www.karenwallo-fineart.com.
Destinee Monroe: “I grew up in South Jersey singing and playing music since I was a kid and started
a band with my friend and sister at age 12.
We moved to California and got signed to Interscope records, where we recorded an album that was released in Japan, and did tours in the United States and Europe.
After eight years with the label, we parted ways and I moved back home to New Jersey to basically start my life over, and got hired to work at hard rock Casino as a server.
After almost three years there I left and started working on music again. Throughout that time I met Billy Walton and Jimmy Brogan (from popular group the Billy Walton Band). We all had an instant connection and love for music and playing live together, so we formed BMW (Brogan, Monroe, Walton).
I joined the Billy Walton Band in 2022 and traveled overseas, getting to play in front of many new faces, playing original music. Billy (Walton) and I have been writing and recording new music; we just released a new music video for our song, “I Can’t Tell”.
I’m looking forward to going back on a UK tour with the guys this April! We’re going to have one hell of a show for everyone.” https://www. facebook.com/destineeraemonroe
Sarah h olt: “I’ve been playing in bands with my cousin and Johnny Zappas since I was 11 years old at the Jersey Shore, where we’ve met lifelong friends and collaborators in Andrew Simpson and Michael Auble. They’ve helped me remember music is about having fun and creating,
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even when it can feel like a Sisyphean struggle or a laborious 9 to 5 job sometimes.
Music is work, and I think my music is also a never-ending journey to figure out what I’m about.
It’s always been about poppy melodies and storytelling. Lately it’s been about deterring fuzz, having fun and loving what I do and who I do it with.
In the future I hope it shape shifts and grows even more.” (Sarah is front-person/vocalist/guitarist for popular local band Molly ringworm and also deejays on WLFr 91.7FM). https://www.facebook.com/sarah. holt.777
Jackie Caruso: “I’m a resident of Ventnor, a two-year transplant from Philadelphia.
One of the best decisions of my life was moving to this magical town full of wonderful folks. I started singing publicly recently, taking a shift from behind the scenes to center stage.
I was one of two of the first female live sound engineers in Philadelphia. I used to book and promote original bands in Philadelphia and surrounding areas.
Music has been a huge part of my life for many years. I hope to be part of fueling a cool new Ventnor music scene and work on more events, eventually writing and performing with a full band doing originals.
I must have music in my life, always! I also make custom seashell art and do beach photography which I share via @ventnorvision on Twitter and Instagram. https://www. facebook.com/missventnor?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Angela Burton: “I sing r&B, jazz, oldies, Motown and Top 40. I have sung in 25 counties overseas for our troops. I sang at the Club h arlem (onetime nightclub on Kentucky Avenue in Atlantic City founded in 1935 by Leroy "Pop" Williams, the city's
premier club for black jazz performers and national acts for many years).
I opened for all of the headliners there.
I got to sing last year at Caesars Casino, opening for Bloodstone, russell Thomson, and The Stylistics, for legendary Blue Notes Platinum Productions. I'm giving away free rain boots for children March 31, at the Atlantic City Police Athletic League, from 5 to 6 p.m. in their auditorium. Donations can be sent in c/o Angela Burton, make checks payable to Creative Multi Media CCM, PO Box 1678, Atlantic City, NJ 08404.
I’ll be performing at Wilson's restaurant in h i-Nella New Jersey on April 1.” https://www.angelaburtonandpassion777.com.
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail. com and www.facebook.com/ dougdeutschpublicity.
Frozen marrow bones are available at most grocery stores or butcher shops. I grab a bunch whenever I am at Tilton Market. They have a butcher who can cut them to the size of my liking.
By Heidi Clayton
When I did a search for “chewing in dogs,” all of the results centered around preventing your dog from chewing on your belongings and body parts. There was no research related to a dog's actual need to chew.
Left to their own devices, every puppy in my life would have helped themselves to a multitude of my belongings to chew on, so I believe there is an innate need for dogs to chew.
With the raw diet becoming mainstream, there are a variety of online vendors who will ship frozen bones right to your door. During hunting season, my deer hunting friends bring me their ribs and bones, much to my dogs’ delight.
NEVEr cook frozen bones as cooked bones splinter and can cause problems for your dog. This also applies to cooked steak bones.
Other popular chews are bully sticks, tendons, cow hooves, tracheas, cow ears, duck or chicken feet, deer or elk antlers, and fish skin chews. Full disclosure; bully sticks are made of the bull’s penis, hence the name. h owever gross they are to me, my dogs love them. Being tenacious chewers, I never give my dogs a bully stick unattended as they tend to wretch down the last little chunk. research on the value of your dog chewing is scant. I can say that gnawing on a meaty marrow bone brings my dogs great joy and entertainment. Giving your dogs bones to chew can help with tartar control and gum health. Most of the items listed above are given when I can be there to supervise.
When selecting bones or chews, the first thing I consider is my dog's safety and the possibility of the bone being a choking hazard. I never give my bull terriers rawhide chews as they chew them with such tenacity that I know they would attempt to swallow a chunk. I also avoid synthetic chews like Nylabones after about 6 to 7 weeks of age.
Despite any assurances on the packages as being “chew proof,” my puppies have managed to swallow chunks of them. I had a chunk of Nylabone block a dog's small intestine, which cost about $7,000 to remove. If you do give your dog Nylabones, always do an inspection of the chew to make sure that they are not ingesting any of it.
Feeding the raw diet, I give my dogs natural bones such as frozen knuckle or marrow bones. For teething puppies, I give them frozen marrow bones to gnaw on instead of synthetic chews, to help soothe their gums.
As with anything you give your dog to chew on, there is always a risk/ benefit assessment. Can a bone or chew upset your dog's stomach or crack a tooth? The answer to both is yes. I tell all of my clients to give their dogs the chews that they are comfortable feeding and what works best for their dogs.
Providing your puppy or dog with bones that are not only tasty but long lasting can greatly reduce the occurrences of chewing your couch or shoes.
Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https:// fouronthefloordogtraining.net
March is Women’s h istory Month, when we acknowledge the social, political, cultural, and economic achievements of women. International Women’s Day is March 8, a holiday that has been recognized in the United States since 1975. In this article, I will pay homage to some of the female wine heroes that I have come to know through my studies of viticulture: Janice robinson, Patricia Gallagher, Lúcia Freitas, Corinne Perez, and Jaimie Benzinger.
When I enrolled in the Sommelier Certification program, I purchased a number of books on wine and wine history. Without question, the most valuable book to me and what the New York Times called, “the single most important reference book on the shelf of any wine student,” is The World Atlas of Wine by Jancis rob -
inson and h ugh Johnson. According to r obinson, “wine makes every meal an occasion, every table more elegant, and every day more civilized.” robinson was, in 1984, the first nonwine industry person to ever pass the rigorous Master of Wine Exams. She was awarded the Order of the British Empire from the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2003 and was a principal advisor on the Queen’s personal wine cellar from 2004 to 2022. In 2018, in separate surveys of wine industry experts in the US and France, robinson was voted “the most influential wine critic,” in the world.
You may have heard Patricia Gallagher’s name in relation to “The Judgment of Paris,” the event that turned the wine world upside down in May of 1976. Steven Spurrier, an Englishman with a wine store and school in Paris, along with Gallagher, who was the director of Spurrier’s wine school, arranged a blind-tasting event between American wines from Napa Valley and French wines from Burgundy and Bordeaux. Spoiler Alert - the American wines won! Although Spurrier is acknowledged as the principal organizer, writings about the event indicate that it was Patricia Gallagher who was largely
responsible for introducing Spurrier to the fledgling California wine industry, prompting him to arrange the tasting. Gallagher, an American, is one of few non-French natives to win the Chevalier du Mérite Agricole award for outstanding service to the French Wine industry and was the academic director and director of the wine department of the renowned, LE CO rDON BLEU school of cuisine in Paris.
Now I would like to highlight three outstanding women winemakers whose artistry you can taste in your glass today. First, from Portugal, Lúcia Freitas, winemaker of Quinta da Mariposa in the Dão region. After a distinguished career at wineries throughout the region, Lúcia returned to her family’s estate in Terras de Senhorim to establish Quinta da Mariposa. She considers her work at the winery “a project that harmonizes respect for tradition and (her) dream of making wines of extraordinary character from the region (she) knows so well.” The vineyard utilizes native grape varietals and employs sustainable wine agricultural practices to preserve the environment for future generations. I truly believe that Portuguese wines will be “the next big thing” in wine. They offer outstanding value. here are two under the Quinta da Mariposa brand I encourage you to try.
the potential of the [region’s] terroir.” I agree! The Pierre Sparr Alsace riesling 2020 is my favorite wine from this region. The wine is dry and crisp with notes of pears and apples with nice acidity and pleasing minerality.
1) Mariposa Vinho
Blanco 2019 is a crisp fresh white wine with mild citrus notes, pleasant acidity, and a minerality that demonstrates the terroir of the Dão region. 2) The Mariposa Vinho Tinto blend is a ruby red wine with notes of wild berries and black pepper, with well-structured tannins and a long finish.
Corinne Perez fell in love with winemaking while studying agriculture in Lyon, France. She had the opportunity to serve as a harvest intern at a winery in Beaujolais, and the rest, as they say, is history. She pursued and earned her DNA degree (oenologist National diploma) in 1994 and set out to build her knowledge and experience in the wine industry. To diversify her knowledge base, Perez worked at wineries in areas as varied as Oregon, Australia, and finally Alsace, France. Although her initial experiences were largely in red wines, Perez became enamored by the beauty and sophistication of white wines in Alsace. She has been a winemaker there since 2003 and, in 2020, was appointed the head winemaker at Pioerre Sparr Wineries. Perez, a strong advocate of sustainable practices, was the driving force behind the winery earning its certification in 2021. She states that riesling is her favorite varietal, because it is “the ideal varietal to reveal
My final homage is to Jaimie Benzinger, who grew up at her family’s two wineries in Sonoma Valley. During summers while in college, Benzinger sold tickets for tours at the family’s wineries. She decided then that her passion was to enter the family business. She transferred to Sonoma State and added wine business studies to her marketing degree program. Upon graduation, she focused on the science of winemaking while working at St. Francis Winery in California, and then at the Villa Maria Winery in New Zealand. She returned home to California in 2015 to work alongside her favorite winemaker, her father: Joe Benzinger. In 2017, Joe retired in 2017; Jaimie became the head winemaker of Imagery Winery. In 2019, Jaime earned the title “Best Women Winemaker in the International Women’s Wine Competition” and was named to Wine Enthusiasts Top 40 Under 40 Tastemakers list. Imagery has a full selection of great wines including Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. I highly recommend the LA International Wine Competition, 92 point, Gold Award winning Imagery Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 or the Double Gold Award winning Chardonnay.
Cheers! to these distinguished women of wine. 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.
I was at the dollar store and saw balloons labeled $1 a piece. I grabbed 3 and went to the cashier who told me the total was $5.28. I guess that’s the price of inflation
Today, I got gas for $1.89. It was at Taco Bell
1. A girl stands on one side of a river, his dog on the other. She calls his dog, who immediately crosses the river without getting wet and without using a bridge or a boat. How did the dog do it?
2. A boy left home running. He ran a ways and then turned left, ran the same distance and turned left again, ran the same distance and turned left again. When he got home, there were two masked men. Who were they?
3. A lady pushes her car to a hotel and tells the owner she’s bankrupt. Why?
4. A man was walking in the rain. He came home all wet, but not a single hair on his head was wet. Why is that?
5. February. It has fewer nights.
5. During which month do people sleep the least? Answers
3. She’s playing Monopoly.
2. The catcher and the umpire.
ACROSS
1. Adam and Eve's son
4. The man was bald.
1. The river was frozen.
5. Blink of an eye, for short
8. Tricep location
11. Laughing on the inside, in text
12. ____ bowl, frozen dish
13. Bid on a house, e.g.
15. Show off
16. Actor's role
17. Nostrils
18. *"Everything Everywhere All At Once" or "The Fablemans" nominee
20. Trampled
21. humpty without t
22. *Cate Blanchett's 6-time nominated movie
23. Store in a silo
26. Tiny crustacean
30. Chop off
31. Not digital
34. Cut with a beam
35. Empty spaces
37. Not good
38. relating to pond scum
39. Capri or Catalina
40. Lament
42. ____ Khan
43. Full event
45. *he's won the most academy awards
47. Jump key
48. Not yes, nor no
50. Male sibs
52. *"The Fablemans" composer John ____, 53-time nominee
55. resin-producing tree
56. Call to Mary
57. Get-out-of-jail money
59. Bye, in Castile 60. Ages and ages 61. Competitive advantage 62. Appetite 63. Farm female 64. Fender-bender damage
1. Key often used with ctrl
2. Gold rush, e.g.
3. Purse with notions
4. Leechee, alt. sp.
5. Dandruff locale
6. This bird gets the worm?
7. Give a traffic ticket
8. Big do
9. Cattail, e.g.
10. *"____ harris Goes to Paris," Best Costume Design nominee
12. Tarzan and such
13. Like beer at a kegger (2 words)
14. *"The Banshees of Inisherin" nominee
19. Polynesian dance, pl.
22. Dress like Ancient Greeks
23. *Austin Butler's gyrating character
24. Gallows loop
25. Oil crisis
26. *Last year's Best Picture winner
27. Like a Druid, e.g.
28. Missouri river tributary
29. Flying nuisance
32. Lend a hand in crime
33. Order's partner
36. *"Guillermo ____ ____'s Pinocchio"
38. "My wife can vouch for me," e.g.
40. Address to a boy, slangily
41. Bucolics
44. Desert traveler's hope 46. Bikini Bottom locale 48. Variation of meow 49. Skirt shape 50. Past tense of bid 51. roman remain, e.g. 52. Cry of glee
53. Like a full-fledged Mafia man
54. Leo or Libra 55. Jared's competitor 58. Allow
See Solution on Page 58
How do young people learn about the extraordinary array of jobs they may someday pursue? Career Carnival for Kids has an exciting answer to that question: offer career discovery events to introduce elementary and middle school students to professionals in a variety of fields such as health care, STEM, public safety, marketing, business, finance, and more.
Career Carnival for Kids is Saturday, March 11 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Showboat resort Atlantic City for an engaging career discovery experience for kids ages 8-14 (with lots to offer older and younger kids, too!)
Career Carnivals are interactive, fun-filled, and Fr EE events where kids and families meet Career Guides (industry professionals) from different businesses, organizations, and schools to enjoy hands-on activities, games, and giveaways while learning about the amazing world of work.
This special Career Carnival will be held at the Showboat, located on Atlantic City's legendary five-mile boardwalk - the longest in the world with spectacular beach views outside and amazing attractions inside. The Showboat has the largest arcade on the East Coast, an indoor go-kart
racing track, and more, making this family-friendly, non-casino venue an outstanding local destination for the Atlantic and Cape May County communities and beyond.
Career Guides from Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, F&S Digital, AtlantiCare, h orizon BCBSNJ, Langan, ASCE, h NTB, Ditmire Motorworks, Atlantic Cape Community College, as well as Steel Pier, Showboat resort and Lucky Snake Arcade, will be among the many companies and organizations sharing their expertise and enthusiasm to spark career curiosity.
Kids, parents, educators, and community members are encouraged to bring an open mind and take home a head full of career insights, ideas, and inspiration.
Be sure to register via Eventbrite for this free fun event! This will also serve as your ticket to receive a discounted parking fee of $10 at the Showboat.
For more information, email careercarnivalforkids@gmail.com or visit www.careercarnivalforkids.com.
It can be tempting to change your whole lifestyle all at once. You have your goal, you know what it’ll take, and you’re ready to go all in. This approach can work for some people, but not for everyone.
Shore Fit By Bonnie Dodd-Miller
Many of us have wonderful intentions and big goals when it comes to our fitness, but how can we create long-lasting habits that will stick? These tips can help do just that. habits are powerful things. If someone told me that working out at 6 a.m. was going to be fun a few years ago, I would have laughed. I’ve done it and I’ve taught many spin classes at that hour, but it was never consistent long term.
But recently I decided that I needed to start my day for me because as life goes, I usually place myself on the back burner.
I rallied up a friend, which has now become three friends, and we hit the gym, Monday through Friday at 6 a.m. It sets the tone for an amazing day and it’s one less thing that I have to think about.
My schedule can get a little hectic, so this is a great time slot that is dedicated just for me. Now it’s become a habit. It’s something I look forward to and don’t want to miss even when I want to hit the snooze button.
It’s important that the habits you set for yourself align with your goals. Write down your goals and track everything. Write down your exercises, your sets, your repetitions and the weight you’re using. This will show how you progress.
The people who are most successful in the gym set clear-cut goals. It is far easier for them to remain motivated during the process leading up to that end goal.
Not only are they setting goals, but they also focus on accomplishing one thing at a time. For instance, my current goal is to curl 25 pounds per arm. I started at 17.5 and my current is 20 pounds, and I’m ready to move forward with a 5-pound increase.
My goal is strength in my upper body and I’m getting there. I document everything which helps and can be time consuming.
If you take on too many goals at once it can lead to feeling discouraged because when you accomplish one of those goals, you feel a sense of failure not having fulfilled the others.
When you change your approach to goal setting and focus on one key goal at a time, you become more successful.
For example, if your goal is fat loss, you may decide you’re going to completely clean out your pantry, buy and meal prep healthy foods only, workout six times a week, and maintain a drastic calorie deficit until you’ve reached your goal.
h owever, in this scenario you’ve alienated food groups from your diet, committed yourself to meal prepping and working out for the foreseeable future, and cut out far too many calories from your diet.
You could have success doing this for the first week or two, but what happens when you’ve forgotten to meal prep and have to eat something on the fly that may put you over the calorie deficit you’ve set for yourself? You’re going to feel guilty and disheartened. Believe me, I’ve been there.
Focus on adding things in slowly. Meal prep a couple of your meals and start out counting your calories to see your current consumption. As you get used to meal prepping, figure out a way you can maintain a slightly lower calorie balance. Then determine other positive changes you can make in your life.
You have to have fun with it or it won’t last and that goes for your workouts, too.
The most motivated gym goers actually enjoy being there. They have fun with their workouts and since they have fun with their workouts, they don’t want to miss them.
The last and the most important point took me a long time to learn. Those who are most motivated and successful in the gym put things in perspective.
You must see the larger picture in life. So, when you miss a workout, you understand it’s just one missed workout. You don’t need to start over or give up.
What you need to do is realize that you’ll have thousands of other workout days to crush, so when you accidentally go over your caloric limit for the day, you don’t go into panic mode.
Just move forward because every day is an opportunity to reset and refocus. remember, we are all human and nobody is perfect.
