SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | September 14, 2023

Wind Protesters Disrupt Construction in OC

Interview with Marine Mammal Stranding Center Fighter Wing Dedicates 9/11 Monument Bears in Mays Landing?

It's festival season at the Jersey Shore

to the Community Foodbank of New Jersey.

From the Editor

If there’s one thing you can count on at the Jersey Shore, it’s a good festival. the temperatures are beginning to cool down, and the kids are back in school, but that doesn’t mean the fun stops around here. South Jersey is a yearround destination for adventure and memory-making. there is so much on the horizon this fall, so as you prepare to flip through these pages, grab a pen because you’re going to want to mark your calendar with some can’tmiss fall fun.

this week, thousands gathered at Ski beach for the annual Downbeach Seafood Festival, where dozens of food trucks served mouthwatering dishes from the sea and live music entertained crowds for two days. Jay’s Crab Shack took home the annual Chowder Cook-Off, which raised money to provide over 15,000 meals

Issue 249

the sun was shining for the annual Good Old Days Festival in Somers point last weekend as well. Live performances, art vendors, and family fun took over Kennedy p ark as guests enjoyed some warm September weather.

As we look forward to the rest of September and into the cooler months, we are excited for m argate Fall Fun Fest coming up on Sept. 23 and 24, featuring live music, a beer garden, and a cornhole tournament. this weekend, tony marts presents rocktoberfest, a craft beer and wine fest coming to Somers point on Sept. 17, and the Last Splash Festival returns to t he Absecon Lighthouse on Sept. 16. the Ocean City b lock party hits Asbury Avenue on Oct. 8, while Smithville looks forward to the Irish Festival on Oct. 14. Halloween spooks await, with Witchcraft returning to Hammonton on Oct. 13 and 14.

Established 2016

We are just getting started! parades, holiday events, and more will continue to fill our weekends as we enjoy the last few months of 2023. there is something to be said about the warmth that the community

offers as the days become cooler and we enjoy the slowed-down nature of September into October. It’s an indescribable “warming of the heart” that I look forward to every year. We look forward to seeing you out and about at these events and more.

Find it all in the weekly events and Happenings calendar and in the pages of Wahoo, your Shore Local entertainment guide. With so much on the horizon, please feel free to tag us on social media with your Jersey Shore adventures. We love to see what our readers are up to.

As always, be sure to check out what our loyal advertisers have to share this week. Look out for coupons and weekly specials from restaurants and bars to boutiques and experiences. South Jersey’s got it all, and it’s all right here at Shore Local.

thank you for reading this edition of Shore Local Newsmagazine.

Peace & Love, Cindy

O ce - (609) 788-4812

Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com

Executive Editor - Cindy Christy Fertsch (609) 705-5323 shorelocalcindy@gmail.com

Copy Editors - James FitzPatrick, Holly Fertsch

Digital Marketing Director - Marc Berman Web Designer - Holly Martin

Contributors – Charles Eberson, Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Donald B. Kravitz, Fred Miller, Krystle J. Bailey, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Elisa Jo Eagan, David Setley, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Whitney Ullman, Raymond Tyler, John Loreaux, Danielle Davies, Bill Quain

Cover photo by Barbara Hinkley. See her photos displayed at Maxum Photo, 900 Tilton Road in Northfield.

Shore Local's owners, staff and advertisers.

The Magate Fall Funfest is just one of many spectacular autumn events at the Jersey Shore. Photo by Tom Briglia/PhotoGraphics

Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly.

Protesters arrested as Orsted begins work for Ocean Wind 1

By Cindy Christy Fertsch

Orsted, the wind energy developer, began work tuesday morning in Ocean City on the planned route for its power cable connecting the offshore wind turbines with the electrical grid.

Opponents of the wind farm turbines gathered at the site to protest. Ocean City police arrested six demonstrators after the city said they failed to heed warnings to get out of the roadway. In addition to the warnings, the police showed protesters a nearby area, 10-feet away from the work zone, where they could protest legally. However, opponents chose not to move over, which forced officers to arrest them in order to provide a safe area for the workers. each was charged with failure to disperse and obstruction of public pathways.

Ocean City is considered the epicenter for the wind turbine project because the transmission cables from the wind farm would come ashore there. the buried cables would run beneath the 35th Street beach and

connect to the power grid at a substation in beesleys point, the site of the former b .L. england coal-fired power plant, in Upper township.

t he work being protested on tuesday, Sept. 12, involved cutting holes into roadways, checking on the location of existing utilities and doing soil and groundwater sampling for the project, called Ocean Wind I. the

work has continued to move forward and is anticipated to be complete on Oct. 2.

Although many local leaders oppose the wind farm, Orsted has approval from the federal government to build Ocean Wind I, putting 98 wind turbines off the coast of Ocean City and Atlantic City.

It also has state approval for a second project, Ocean Wind II, although that project needs numerous additional approvals before it can begin construction.

were never asked if we want Wind turbines and we do not. We have a Government that is violating the will of the people and they do not care. As with the boston tea party in the formation of our great nation we have to fight harder now than ever before. Don't give up. Never give up. Contact every member of the New

the company said it still has not made the final decision on whether to proceed with the projects, which are costing more and taking longer than anticipated.

Opponents promise to keep up the pressure on the company to discontinue.

"Our constitutional rights of home rule have been violated," said rich baehrle of Northfield. "We the people

Jersey Senate and Assembly and vote them out if they do not step up and stop the wind turbine invasion at the Jersey Shore."

Orsted, the Danish company behind the project, announced last week that it is pushing back the Ocean Wind 1 commissioning until 2026. However, company officials said onshore work is still moving forward in Ocean City.

The saddest day in Ocean City

A reader writes in

By Richard Baehrle

Yesterday was the saddest day in Ocean City history. the town was invaded by workers who started work on the area to receive the lines from the wind turbines. Ocean City people do not want this nor the wind turbines! I feel this invasion of putting the lines through the town is unconstitutional and should be stopped. I, along with thousands of people firmly believe that there is no good reason for the wind turbines. p lease take note of the reasons to terminate the wind turbines:

1. t hey do not make economic sense. It is projected that the rates will increase three times. New Jersey citizens should not be paying for wind turbines

2. turbines will destroy the ocean as we know it. It will destroy commercial and leisure fishing which will affect thousands of jobs and our food supply chain.

3. per the report of the turbine developers, it is projected to affect tourism up to a billion dollars and more (15 percent).

4. turbines will negatively affect real estate values which in turn will lower the tax bases in the towns.

5. turbines will jeopardize the security of our nation per the pentagon.

6. New Jersey tax credits were wrongly given to Orsted. they know it and you know they have no idea what the ultimate cost will be. that money was the New Jersey ratepayers’ money and should never have been given to them.

7. t here are dead whales, dolphins, and other marine life (71 dead whales to date). there are studies that clearly indicate that the deaths that have occured can be directly

related to the turbine testing. I have been at the Jersey Shore all my life. I have never seen even three dead whales in one year.

8. turbines were never meant to be a permanent source of energy. We will experience brownouts and blackouts constantly. I can tell you firsthand that because I fish a lot that there is not a constant wind of 30 mph to turn the turbines. It is insane to think this is going to be a reliable source of power!

Conclusion: t here was no due process given to the citizens of New Jersey. We were never asked to vote on wind turbines. this is going to be an irreversible destructive event that will destroy our pristine ocean forever. You have the opportunity to do the right thing and stop it now. the evidence is clear. please put politics aside and stop the wind turbines now!

Join the conversation. If you like to share your opinion, thoughts, or concerns, please email shorelocalnews@gmail.com

Egg Harbor City nonprofit acquires 4,100 sq-foot food pantry

By Krystle J Bailey

No1 Hungry in e HC, a nonprofit organization that began out of a small 24-hour open-air pantry a little over five years ago, is expanding its reach with a new 4,100-squarefoot building that will serve as a food pantry for thousands of local families.

Angela Krukauskas started the organization as a means to give back to her neighbors following the extended hospitalization of her husband. After his discharge, Angela was so inspired by the generosity of her friends and the local residents who supported her family during uncertain times that she made it her life mission to bless as many other people as possible.

the original open-air pantry started with one box of stuffing and a sign that read, “ take a blessing if you need one, leave a blessing when you can.” Day after day, the pantry grew as word caught on and the news spread across social media.

Soon, toys and gift cards filled the pantry, and by the first holiday

season, Krukauskas was able to help 41 local children with Christmas gifts. Since then, the blessings have poured in in abundance, and the one-pantry has turned into refrigerators, freezers, medical supplies and more, available for local individuals in need.

building in the heart of egg Harbor City to provide even more assistance to the community. the building will accommodate more than double the meals and resources provided by No1 Hungry with the anticipation of feeding upwards of 5,000 individuals in need this year.

and could use some community help,” said Angela Krukauskas, who plans to have the building fully functioning by this December.

t he organization helps anyone in need without barriers to entry. Whether they need a hospital bed or a can of beans, the 200-plus-person team will go above and beyond to fill any need.

Using the University of pittsburgh screening procedures, families are served according to their demographics, not their finances.

“ everybody’s need level is different,” explains Krukauskas.

t his year, Krukauskas and her team are proud to announce that they’ve acquired a 4,100-square-foot

No1 Hungry is seeking volunteer support for the building’s renovation. there is plumbing and flooring work that needs to be completed, as well as cosmetic painting and upgrades.

“We are diligently working on rehabbing this 140-year-old building

No1 Hungry in eHC is accepting support, donations, and corporate sponsorship. Learn more and donate at No1Hungryin eHC.com. If anyone is interested in donating time or resources to the restoration of the building located at 233 philadelphia Avenue in egg Harbor City, contact Angela at 609-287-2450

The Odyssey of the Butterfly:

The great monarch migration begins

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

As September rolls around, kids head back to school and butterflies head to Cape may.

m onarch butterflies, despite their delicate appearance, travel from New england to m exico every autumn, making a pit stop in South Jersey around September. the New Jersey Audubon Society tracks the butterflies to ensure that they have a safe flight to their sunny destination. Hundreds of monarchs are identified and tracked as they fly across the country. their census begins in early September and ends around Halloween.

In the early to mid 20th century, tourists would flock to Cape may to be awed by the hoards of beautiful butterflies gathering around the

beach. today, sadly, the monarch butterfly population is in severe decline, primarily because of increased pesticide use and greater land development by humans. the New Jersey Department of environmental protection writes, “ the presence of the monarch butterfly represents environmental health and well-being in the state. As the butterfly population has diminished, the environment and earth are in danger.”

butterflies travel up from m exico to enjoy warm New Jersey weather each spring. In summer, they mate and females lay eggs in milkweed bushes (otherwise known as butterfly bushes). It is the only plant that supports the growth of young caterpillars. there are approximately 140 species of milkweed, so the monarch butterfly has lots of opportunities to lay her eggs. Once an egg is laid on a

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milkweed bush, the egg will develop into a caterpillar after three to five days. t he caterpillar will feast on milkweed leaves for approximately five days, and after 15 days of life, the caterpillar will start to develop into a fully-grown monarch butterfly, entering the pupa stage. the caterpillar will be in its chrysalis for 15 more days, then spread its wings for the first time as a butterfly.

Newly-formed butterflies then enter an age of sexual immaturity, called diapause. In this stage, the butterfly is focused on learning migration patterns and eating flower pollen. the young monarchs grow thicker abdomens to maximize fat storage to maintain energy for their long flight. A butterfly lives for approximately eight to 10 months, so once it’s time to head back to New Jersey in the spring, the butterfly will lay eggs then sadly pass away. the next generation is born, and ready to grow up and

migrate far distances. m onarchs have a unique migration pattern. the eastern population from New england and Southern Canada travel to m exico and Southern Florida, while the western population in the rocky m ountains travel to Western California and Arizona. During their trip, the monarchs have “stopovers,” meaning they will pause their travel to store nectar from flowers for energy.

Cape may is one of those spots. If you see butterflies this next month, be sure to care for the creature by keeping your distance and removing any hazards, such as a frisky cat or electrical wires. If you would like to support the endangered monarch butterfly population, you can plant a milkweed bush in your backyard. they are easily found in garden stores and easy to maintain. they require fairly-dry conditions, so make sure they are planted around rocks, clay, or shells. these bushes grow between two to four feet tall and require full sun exposure. they bloom a beautiful pink color in the summer. Do not spray this plant with fertilizer, as it may harm the butterflies and their babies. Support the monarch butterfly and plant a milkweed bush. You’ll love the views of vibrant orange and black wings fluttering by your window.

Photos by Steffen Klenk

177th Fighter Wing dedicates new memorial on the 22nd anniversary of 9/11

By Krystle J Bailey

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2023, 22 years after the day that would disrupt American history forever, dozens gathered at the 177th Fighter Wing NJ Air National Guard base in egg Harbor township to reflect, share, and honor the solemn day that continues to profoundly affect generations of Americans.

t he ceremony began promptly at 10:03 a.m., to coincide with the final moments of Flight 93, the California-bound plane on which American civilians derailed the intended path to destruction, crashing the plane near Shanksville, pennsylvania, sacrificing 44 lives. Following an invocation by the 177th Fighter Wing Chaplain Francis rella and a breathtaking rendition of the national anthem by Staff Sgt. rob m cm urrary (ret.). Attendees were greeted by a flyover by four Jersey Devil F-16 Fighting Falcons.

t he event served as both a dedication for a new 9/11 memorial as well as a sendoff for the 177th Fighter Wing’s upcoming deployment. the 300 airmen set to deploy to Southwest Asia were represented by a 52-airmen formation as each guest speaker took to the microphone.

Speakers included Congressman Donald Norcross, Congressman Jeff Van Drew, and Former Congressman Frank Lo b iondo. each spent their time at the podium speaking to the somberness of the day and their gratitude for the first responders, civilians, and the United States military for their bravery both in 2001 and today.

Congressman Van Drew made a poignant statement noting that the feelings of 9/11 were indescribable. Still, the American spirit in the days, weeks, and months that followed was to never to be forgotten.

“You know what I could describe?” he asked rhetorically. “I

could describe how the United States of America came together. there was no b lack; there was no White; there was no Hispanic; there was no Asian; there were no Californians; there were no Nebraskans; there were no New Jerseyans, or pennsylvanians, or New Yorkers. We were all New Yorkers. We were all Americans.”

Keynote speaker Former Congressman Frank Lo b iondo echoed those sentiments as he shared his experience of being in the United States Capitol b uilding on the morning of 9/11. As he told stories of being evacuated and the safety precautions of the day, he stated, “So many epitomized the American spirit that day.”

the former congressman went on to explain that threats to America never cease, stating, “We rely on everyone to their job; certainly the military, the men and women in uniform. thank you for your service. t hank you for your willingness to sacrifice.”

Following the solemn but inspiring messages, five wreaths were laid on the new memorial, which features two steel beams recovered from Ground Zero displayed on a base in the shape of t he pentagon. each wreath represented the lives lost and the sacrifices made at the North tower, South tower, the pentagon, and Shanksville respectively, with the fifth wreath laid as a final act to the dedicating of the memorial.

Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to join the 177th Fighter Wing Airmen and the congressmen in attendance for light refreshments and an oral history of 9/11, as well as shuttles to view the static display of a Jersey Devil F-16.

Photo Credit: Jeff Deckman, Radar Contact Photography

Marine Mammal Stranding Center warns against making whales ‘poster child’ for anti-wind

an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce. the marine mammal protection Act defines a U me as “a stranding event that is unexpected, involves a significant dieoff of any marine mammal population, and demands immediate response.”

theories about it. It’s sad that it’s just how people are.”

Unfortunately, there are logistical reasons for the long wait to determine the cause of death in these marine mammals. many of the whales wash up decomposed, which makes it difficult to pinpoint what killed them.

ous years, which could be the reason locals are seeing a higher percentage of whales being hit by vessels.

By Holly Fertsch

Sheila Dean has been working on saving beached whales for 45 years. She has 51 years of experience rescuing sick or injured marine mammals. As the director of the marine mammal Stranding Center (mmSC), her team has been on the frontlines of the Unusual mortality event of whales.

Lately, however, the marine mammal Stranding Center has been receiving angry phone calls, demanding information that isn’t public yet and accusing the mm SC of being backed by “big wind.”

Increased rates of humpback whale mortality have been observed since 2016. An Unusual m ortality event (U me) for humpback whales was declared in 2017 by NOAA Fisheries,

t he U me for humpback whales remains in effect.

In a conversation with Shore Local Newsmagazine, Dean explained that, in her experience, it can take a long time to discover the cause of U mes. this isn’t her first rodeo. She recalled previous U mes of various marine mammals in 1987 and 2013. Dean explained that “hundreds” of dolphins died in the ‘80s before scientists figured out what killed them: “A year later, in 1987 — a year after those dolphins were washing in — we finally were able to determine that it was a virus.”

even though the dolphin U me was ultimately caused by a virus, conspiracy theories about the cause ran rampant. “ there were other people’s theories [that it] was mustard gas. You know, another country doing something to our water. there were just so many

t he mm SC has noticed signs of vessel strikes on many of the whales, but Dean explained that does not necessarily mean that vessel strikes are the cause of death: “ the one thing that we do know, on a large proportion of them, is that they have been hit by something large, which obviously would be a ship. And you know, I’ve seen various degrees of trauma on the animal. Sometimes it's just a little bit of bruising. I’ve seen them with their skulls cracked, lower jaws broken, ribs broken. So there are different injuries on the animals. So right now, at this point, we’re unsure if that was the cause of their demise.”

It is possible that the whales could have been sick and disoriented, which could lead to being struck by boats. It is also possible that there are simply more whales in the area than in previ -

there is an unproven theory that this is a result of environmental protections that have caused the whale population to increase. Specifically, the Federal Clean Water Act and fishing regulations from NOAA Fisheries may be behind the recent phenomenon. t here has been an increase in the amount of menhaden, herring, and zooplankton found along the New Jersey coast in the past decade. those marine species all are a prominent part of whales’ diets. t heoretically, the cleaner waters brought these small fish to the Atlantic coast, which in turn attracted more whales to our area.

Of course, many locals have also heard the claim by anti-wind groups that offshore wind projects are negatively impacting whale populations. However, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, “At this point, there is no scientific evidence that noise resulting from offshore wind site characterization surveys could potentially cause mortality of whales.”

Dean stresses that no one can know anything for sure until a laboratory confirms the cause of death. She explains the process: “So what we do is we take samples of the tissue, so it can be further studied at laboratories by the technicians there, people who do this for a living. And unfortunately, because there are so few labs and so many whales — it’s not just New Jersey, you know, it’s the entire United States that’s seeing an unusual amount of animals washing ashore — so they’re pretty far backed up”

Dean also said, “Once they send a report, we publish that on our website.” However, she strongly discourages people from calling the mmSC and demanding information. the mm SC cannot give information before they receive the report because they do not know the cause of death until the laboratory gets back to them.

However, in the meantime, con -

residents.

the mm SC, whose headquarters is in brigantine, feels this pain all too well. Dean compared losing a whale to having a pet dog die. For her, these losses are personal.

Dean and her team choose to rescue marine mammals and sea turtles that need help, despite the recent emotional cost and the hate calls the center receives.

the mmSC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Formed in 1978, it is the only federally authorized animal hospital for marine mammals in New Jersey. According to their website, they have responded to over 6,000 strandings since the organization was founded by robert Schoelkopf and Sheila Dean.

“ people don’t understand we’re a nonprofit organization, and we have been for 45 years. And we make most of our own money. We get some grant money, but we are on the street, ask-

to think about how much money it takes to do this, and it’s getting more expensive every single year. I mean, just our car insurance and our liability insurance for this place is like, you know, $40,000,” commented Dean. Accusations of getting money from ‘big wind’ are particularly frustrating for Dean because she is not supporting offshore wind projects. In fact, she said that she would be the first to speak out against offshore wind if it was scientifically proven to be causing whale deaths. Dean explained, “ they don’t understand, and they think that we’re being paid to be quiet. We’re not. We’re not being quiet. If I ever find out that it was the windmill people who were the cause of it, it’s gonna be out there loud and clear. b ut until then, we’re staying neutral. We’re not going against anybody. We’re just staying neutral, and that’s what a scientist does. they wait until they have con -

because we don’t know that.”

For more information on whale strandings in New Jersey, see the mmSC’s website: https://mmsc.org/ cetaceans-2002-2023. t he m arine m ammal Stranding Center has data on cetacean strandings in New Jersey from 2002 to the present posted on its website.

If you see a whale or other marine mammal in need of help, call the 24-hour mm SC hotline at (609) 266-0538. Dean would like to remind readers that it is not safe to touch stranded marine mammals because they are wild animals and could have viruses that are communicable to humans. Dean also explained that it is often not a good idea to push stranded animals back into the water. Instead, stay a safe distance away and call the hotline. mmSC will arrive with trained personnel and proper gear to rescue the animal.

Holly Fertsch graduated college in 2020 with an English degree and a certification to teach English as a second language. Since then, she has worked as a teacher, tutor, and editor. After helping out with Shore Local, her family business, part-time for years, she decided to make the shift to writing and editing full-time.

Events and Happenings

Thursday, September 14

Surf & Soul Drum Circles in Atlantic City

▶5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Caspian Avenue beach

Join Sea Goddess Healing Arts for their monthly Surf & Soul Drum Circle Series. this is a free jam series open to all ages. No experience required. bring an instrument if you have one. We’ll provide sticks and buckets to use during the drum circle. Free and open to all, donations appreciated. Come out and vibe with your tribe at the beach. For more information, visit seagoddesshealingarts.com.

Open Mic at Ventnor Coffee

▶6:30 – 9 p.m.

108 N. Dorset Ave. Ventnor Ventnor Coffee hosts Open m ic every thursday. Come early to sign

up. b ring your songs, poetry, and jokes. Singer songwriter pete Glaze will perform from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Friday, September 15

3rd Annual Grace Kelly Film Gala

▶7 p.m.

Gateway playhouse 738 bay Ave. Somers point

Join Gateway playhouse for the gala film event benefiting the Ocean City Historical m useum and the Somers point Historical Society. the film begins at 7 p.m. VI p experience is $50 and includes reception will be held from 5:30 – 6:30 with live jazz performed by the South Jersey Jazz Society, light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar. regular admission is $20. Learn more and purchase tickets at gatewaybythebay.org.

Saturday, September 16

Yard Sale

▶8 a.m. – 2 p.m. risley Homestead 8 Virginia Ave. Northfield

t he Atlantic County Historical Society will host their yard sale this Saturday on the grounds of risley Homestead. For more information, visit hatlanticcountyhistoricalsocietynj.org.

C.R.O.P.S. Markets in Linwood

▶9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Central Square 199 New. rd.

Join C. r .O. p.S. for a fun filled morning. enjoy live music by Dan barry, a bracelet making bar with the Liz tran Creations, Donation based Yoga with Leanne from Hummingbird Yoga, Fitness with practice, local vendors and much more.

Craft and Vendor Show

▶9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

St. John Lutheran Church 1001 Central Ave. Ocean City

Join St. John Lutheran Church for this 2nd Annual event, featuring over a dozen crafters selling creations, crafts, baked goods, and more. please bring a non-perishable food item for the Food bank. For more information, call (215) 603-4015.

Ocean City Walk to Defeat ALS

▶10 a.m.

Ocean City Sports & Civic Center 6th Street and boardwalk this two mile walk raises funds to support patient services and research. Help take steps towards a cure for ALS. registration opens at 9 a.m., the walk starts at 10 a.m. Visit https://secure.alsphiladelphia.org for more details.

Ocean City Airport Festival

▶10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Ocean City municipal Airport 26th St. & bay Ave.

Features include a ground display

All eyes will turn to the sky for Ocean City’s Air Show Weekend on Sept. 16 and 17. All events are free to attend, and the early forecasts call for sunny and clear skies.

of unusual airplanes ranging from World War II planes to Classics and Warbirds. the event will feature a parachute jump from team Fastrax.

Smithville Art Walk

▶10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Historic Smithville 615 e moss mill rd.

m ore than 76 local artists set up displays on the Greene, located near the red-covered bridge. enjoy special guests and live music all day. rain date: Sun., Sept. 17

Last Splash Festival

▶11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Absecon Lighthouse 31 S. rhode Island Ave. Atlantic City

t he 2nd Annual Last Splash

m ermaid & pirate Festival, a joint fundraiser for the Absecon Lighthouse and marine mammal Stranding Center, is coming this September. presented by Sea Goddess Healing Arts, attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, including drum circle workshops, vendors, music, ventriloquist Justin thomas, and tina Notaro as b ubbles the m ermaid. For more information, or to sponsor the event, visit seagoddesshealingarts.com.

rain date: Sat., Sept. 23. Bark in the Park

▶11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

4-H Fairgrounds 3210 route 50, mays Landing

Laddie’s Legacy and Absecon

Veterinary Hospital will host this 3rd Annual event. Fun for the whole family, this event will include a dog show, food trucks, vendors, beer garden, dog training demonstrations, kid and dog pie eating contest, raffle baskets, and much more. Admission is $7 per person, kids under 12 and dogs are free. Dogs must be people, kid, and other dog friendly and on non-retractable leashes. proceeds benefit the hospitals 501c3 charity, Laddie’s Legacy.

OC Pops Dance Elegance with the Atlantic City Ballet

▶7:30 p.m.

Ocean City music pier 825 boardwalk

Join the Ocean City pops for their season finale of 2023. After their breathtaking feature with the pops last year, the stars of the Atlantic City b allet return to heat up the m usic pier stage. the pops will also shine tonight as they play dance-themed orchestral features. For tickets, visit www.oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice, visit the music pier box office, or call (609) 399-6111.

Parachute Pyrotechnic Display

▶8 p.m.

Ocean City boardwalk the parachute p yrotechnic Show consists of several highly trained

↘Continued on 18

and specialty licensed team Fastrax demonstrators exiting the aircraft 6,000 feet above Ocean City’s beach & boardwalk. brilliant white or multi-colored projectile pyrotechnics are then ignited and flown in formation, creating a dazzling display for spectators on the ground. the jump will take place at 8 p.m. with a landing on the 7th St. beach. Viewable along the entire boardwalk.

Sunday, September 17

Boardwalk Aerobatic Airshow

▶1 p.m.

Ocean City boardwalk from 6th – 14th St.

this aerobatic airshow will take place over the ocean. thrill to some of the best stunt pilots and aerobatic champions in the world plus military demonstrations.

Rocktoberfest Craft Beer and Wine Fest

▶2 – 8 p.m.

Somers point VFW Lodge #2189 500 bethel rd.

Shore Local and tony mart presents rocktoberfest, sponsored by Circle Liquor Store. It’s the battle of b ritain: billy Walton’s Stones versus Danny eyer’s b eatles, featuring the Danny eyer band with special guests billy Walton, rich “ m egahurtz” Kurtz and Destinee m onroe. enjoy a real Oktoberfest menu from Gregory’s restaurant and bar, dozens of imported beers, craft beer, and wine for sale and tasting, plus flights for only $10. VI p seating including poster and t-shirt available for $100 donation. No admission charge. Free parking. proceeds benefit tony mart Cares, Heart of Surfing, and the VFW. For more, go to www.tonymart.com.

Tuesday, September 19

Somers Point Dance Society

▶7:30 – 10:30 p.m.

Somers point Fire Co. #1 447 bethel rd.

Come out to Somers point Fire Co. #1 every tuesday for social dancing, line dances, dance mixers, and more. Light snacks included in admission. $10 live musical duo each week. Call rita Voli at (609) 408-3619 for information. See you on the dance floor.

Wednesday, September 20 Positivity Project: Evening Retreat

▶7 p.m.

Join JFS Wellness Coach m ary Jean Arreola and t ina Serota for

an evening retreat covering a wide range of topics including self-care, mindfulness, gratitude, meditation, and resiliency. rSVp by Sept. 18 by at (609) 287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Thursday, September 21

Coffee Klatch

▶10:30 a.m.

Katz JCC boardroom 501 N. Jerome Ave. margate

Your world in 60 minutes. Join a fast-paced discussion on politics, technology, world events, arts, religion, and more. m oderated by tina Serota. Attend in-person at the Katz JCC boardroom or on Zoom. rSVp by Sept. 18 (609) 287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Friday, September 22 Memoir Workshop

▶10:30 a.m.

Katz JCC boardroom 501 N. Jerome Ave. margate

Learn about publishing your work. You need a laptop or pen/paper for

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AUTUMN EXHIBITPAINTING CREATIVELY

Danny Eyer and Billy Walton to perform at Rocktoberfest Sunday, Sept. 17 at the VFW in Somers Point.

PET HOTEL

the workshop. Attend in-person at the Katz JCC boardroom or on Zoom. rSVp by Sept. 19 (609) 287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Saturday, September 23

Charity League Yard Sale

▶8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

118 pleasant Ave. Somers point

t he Charity League of Atlantic County invites everyone to the yard sale, featuring a wide array of items and something for everyone. All proceeds benefit our agencies. Cash only.

Multi-Day Events

Sunset Beach Yoga

▶thursdays at 7 p.m.

William m orrow b each, Somers point

Untie all the knots in your mind and body after a long day and enjoy 60 minutes of gentle yoga on the Somers point b each. What you will need: comfortable yoga attire, a beach towel, water bottle and an open mind. Donation based. to sign up, visit https://strengtheningsouls. square.site.

Margate Fall Funfest by the Bay

▶Sat., Sept. 23, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. & Sun., Sept. 24, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Amherst Ave. between Coolidge and Decatur

Featuring over 110 booths and amusements comprised of mouthwatering foods, unique fine arts and crafts, m argate’s retailers, sponsors, non-profits, margate City municipal departments, kid’s activities, live bands, a kid’s stage, wetlands wonderland, and two days of parades featuring miss New Jersey. For more information, visit margatehasmore.com.

Health and Wellness

Meetings for Family Members of Individuals Affected by Mental Illness and/or Substance Use Disorder

▶thursday, Sept. 14 at 10:30 a.m. this is a workshop style meeting among peers with a new topic each month. m eetings include a presentation segment and an open discussion component. Call (609) 517-8614 for more information on how to participate.

Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, Sept. 20, 1:30 p.m. 6009 paul and thelma Lane, mays Landing

Held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month from 1:30 – 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at (609) 4026966 for more information.

NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶monday, Oct. 9, 7 p.m. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 606 Shore rd. Somers point participants gain the support of their peers who understand their experience and gain insight into others’ challenges and successes. For more information and to register, please visit www.namiacm.org, or call (609)

741-5125. NAm I ACm is a non-profit 501C(3) corporation.

Registration Open for NAMI Atlantic Cape May Family-toFamily Class

the National Alliance on m ental Illness (NAm I) Atlantic Cape may has opened its registration for its Free 8 Week Family-to-Family class. NAm I Family-to-Family provides information about anxiety, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. Contact NAm I at (609) 741-5125 or email Nami1557@comcast.net.

Mental Health Support and Discussion Groups

Online groups are offered daily for a variety of topics, including women, men, LG btQIA+, individuals aged 18-30. b oomers, 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.

Do you have an upcoming event?

Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.

Jimmy Buffett tribute added to Rocktoberfest lineup

Tony mart presents will offer rocktoberfest, its final free concert event of the season from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, at VFW post 2189 in Somers point.

rocktoberfest will feature favorite Jersey artists performing tributes to Jimmy b uffett, the rolling Stones and t he b eatles. prepare to enjoy beloved rock ‘n’ roll performers in this final musical celebration of the season, an award-winning summer that presented more than 40 free shows on the Atlantic City boardwalk and the beach in Somers point.

t he b illy Walton b and, which performed an exciting, memorable show with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes at a huge Labor Day Concert in Asbury park, will be featured at rocktoberfest. the Jersey Shore rock and soul guitar hero will perform along with the Danny eyer band before heading for europe on his next tour later this month.

rocktoberfest is a free festival and concert that combines exciting but intimate rock ‘n’ roll performances with specialty beer and wine tastings

paired with the famous Oktoberfest food of Gregory’s restaurant & bar at Somers point.

billy Walton will be joined by the talented Destinee monroe in a novel “ b attle of b ritain” musical standoff as b illy and Destinee offer up music by the rolling Stones songs while Danny eyer performs the beatles.

t he b illy Walton b and has soared in popularity to become one of the hottest rock 'n’ soul bands in the tri-state region.

t hey just finished one of the most successful t hursday night weekly performance series at the shore, “ tony mart rocks the point,” at the popular tropical tiki bar and nightclub, the point, on the historic bay front in Somers point where bay Shores once stood. b illy, Destinee and the tony m art Allstars are considered to be among the top performers in South Jersey today.

rocktoberfest is a fitting way to say farewell to an incredible summer with the Allstars and a Jersey Shore rock ‘n’ soul guitar hero. this small-venue gathering is an opportunity for everyone to share the sense of community and camaraderie of the tony mart family, and the extended Shore Local family in an end-of-the-season party.

While tasting wheat beers and craft beers with Shore Local publisher b ob Fertsch, tasting the Circle Liquor Store wines with Carmen marotta, enjoying the best German food in South Jersey with Gregory’s restaurant & bar (a sampling of the authentic Oktoberfest food to be served at Gregory’s in October) and hearing the recently scheduled tribute to Jimmy b uffett and popular songs of t he b eatles and the Stones from billy and Danny, everyone is invited to hear and taste

the final celebration of an incredible summer together.

Joining the Allstars to perform the tribute to Jimmy b uffett, “Old School” Jimmy Glenn will add his sensational vocal performance and world class percussion to the party. the concert is free. the parking is free. VI p tables of eight can be reserved for a $100 donation, which includes one tony mart t-shirt and one tony mart “Summer of ‘65” poster.

Rocktoberfest Schedule

● 2 p.m. tastings

● 3-3:50 p.m. Danny eyer band

● 3:50-4:30 p.m. billy Walton, Destinee m onroe, “Old School” Jimmy Glenn

● 4:30-4:45 p.m. tastings

● 4:45-5:30 p.m. Jimmy Glenn

● 5:30-6 p.m. billy Walton, Destinee m onroe

● 6-7 p.m. “ battle of britain” Danny eyer’s b eatles vs. b illy Walton’s Stones

● 7:15-7:45 p.m. Allstar Jam the venue is located at 500 bethel road in Somers point. Let the good times roll!

Don’t miss Margate’s Fall Funfest weekend

Margate’s marquee event, margate Fall Funfest by the bay Saturday, Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Sept.24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. brings over 110 booths and amusements comprised of mouthwatering foods, unique fine arts and crafts, m argate retailers, sponsors, nonprofits, m argate City municipal departments, kid’s activities, 10 live bands on the WZXL 100.7 main Stage, 12 acts on the 95.1 WAYV Kid’s Stage, ray Scott’s Dock Wetlands Wonder-

turing m iss New Jersey, costumed characters and more!

Additionally, the event features the 26th annual Steve and Cookie’s Dog Show, a beer garden, Saturday Cornhole tournament and the immensely popular tito’s Handmade Vodka tent. Saturday evening rolls into Funfest After Dark; Not for Kids featuring wine and spirits tasting, lite bites and the out of this world band NJ british Invasion!

Now in its 22nd year, this free event brings fresh and exciting family

of visitors attend m argate Fall Funfest to enjoy the breathtaking family friendly venue along the beautiful bayfront and promenade, and the friendly spirit of the people of margate!

sept 15 - OC t 8

Morey’s piers Ocktoberfest

sept 18

el Festival - Hispanic Heritage Festival

sept 22-24

Irish Fall Festival

sept 22-23

Boardwalk Classic Car show

sept 23

seafarer’s Festival

sept 29-30

Olde time Italian Festival

sept 29 - OCt 1

Monster truck Beach Races

OCt 8

Wildwood Food & Music Festival

OCt 13 - 14

‘50s, ‘60s & ‘70s Weekend & Concert

OCt 20

Drinks & Drag Queen Halloween show

OCt 20 - 22

Fall Indoor RV Show

N O v 24

Holiday shopping village Byrne plaza

N O v 24

Holiday Beach Bonfire North Wildwood

N O v 24-26

Christmas in N. Wildwood

Food vendors from throughout the region will be offering savory food selections like tony b oloney’s uniquely themed subs, California Frozen Yogurt’s refreshing acai bowls, Vagabond’s tequila shrimp bangers, South Jersey Smokehouse barbecue, philly pretzels, rSK mini donuts, tacocat Cal- m ex fare, the muffin top Asian and Vietnamese food, Sherris’ Crab Cakes, St. Nicholas Greek food, tin Cup Soda, tommy D’s funnel cakes, mad Dog m organ burgers and chicken, Water Dog barbecue, betty’s Seafood lobster rolls, shrimp boxes, Aneu Kitchen and Catering, and the Other Lucy doughnuts and much more. A beer garden and tito’s bloody mary tent offer plenty of opportunities to quench anyone’s thirst

Funfest is known for its highly touted crafters and artisans. Dozens of juried artists offering a wide variety of handmade crafts including pottery, photography, fall décor, culinary artisans, handmade candles, wood working, soaps, and unique jewelry will be at Funfest.

talented musical bands and performers will be featured on the main stage, playing everything from rock, blues, country and broadway. Saturday’s line-up features teddi Fusco, the No Clue trio, Viv Luff, Swing that Cat, poor m outh Henry and b luestreet b and. Sunday will be rocking with the Company, Dan barry, mas tequila Orchestra and Cubicle Shamans.

Saturday features the return of the Funfest Cornhole tournament presented by Haven marketing with a cash prize and open to all ages. register online at Funfest Cornhole or the day of the event on Washington Ave. from 10 a.m. to noon; tournament begins at 1 p.m. t he event is hosted by Colmar true Value Home Center and Sunday is free Cornhole recreational play. On Sunday visitors will also enjoy Steve and Cookie’s 26th Annual Dog Show, with featured guests and exciting contest categories starring the most handsome and adorable dogs.

New entertainment this year on the 95.1 WAYV Kid’s Stage will include cool magic and men -

talism in the Street Sorcery Show and the Wild thrill Stunt e xtravaganza featuring, juggling with knives, object balancing, fire eating and plenty of audience participation. A cartoon character parade, starring b uzz Lightyear, minion, Stormtrooper and Cinderella will join miss New Jersey Victoria mozitis, in a procession down Amherst Avenue. t he excitement continues with performances by the talented students of Suzie Neustadter and blake’s Gymnastics. back this year is a pumpkin decorating contest; purchase a pumpkin at Funfest for $2 and send a picture of your decorated pumpkin to info@margatehasmore. com.

Winners will be posted on the margate Has m ore Facebook page. ray Scott’s Dock ‘Wetland Wonderland’ will be hosting a myriad of activities including the annual terrapin turtle release, call 609-822-6819 to reserve a boat seat. Jacques Cousteau estuary research, the marine mammal Stranding Center and Sustainable Downbeach will have a variety of displays featuring ocean and bay life. Also look for a native butterfly display! New to Funfest and offering some fun and unique activities is Carefree

wildwoods island shuttle - leaVe the dRiVinG to us Jitney service from diamond Beach to olde nJ ave...and everywhere in between! ~ download the Free Jitney surfer app ~

boat Club of South Jersey. Sponsor tents will feature exciting free activities and giveaways. WAWA will be randomly handing out product coupons; Atlantic County Utilities Authority’s environmental giveaways, waste disposal information, and participants of all ages are invited to spin to the environmental trivia question wheel and be on the lookout for Supercan mascot.

Funfest After Dark Definitely Not for Kids, on Saturday continues the weekend’s fun into the night of Sept. 23, from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Washington Ave. pier with live music by NJ british Invasion and a wine and spirits tasting. Funfest After Dark is a special adults-only event. Admission to the tasting and access to the decorated lounge on the Washington Avenue pier and the featured tito’s Handmade Vodka tent is $20 (advance ticket purchase) $25 day of and includes 5 samplings of wine & spirits, finger foods provided by Dino’s Subs and philly pretzel Factory. to purchase tickets visit margatehasmore. com. t he live music performance and dancing in the streets is free for

those who just want to groove to the beat of the NJ british Invasion highlighting some of b ritain's greatest exports: the beatles, rolling Stones, the Who and the Clash.

Free jitney shuttle service is available all along Ventnor and Amherst Avenues and from the parking lot at the eugene t ighe School on 7804 Amherst Avenue. Just look for the Free Funfest Jitney sign in the jitney window or download the Jitney Surfer app to track your jitney!

Schedules and events subject to change or cancellation.

Meet Chef Pam: Atlantic City's First Female Executive Chef

By Krystle J Bailey

Known for her iconic hot pink hair, heartwarming smile, and undeniable talent in the kitchen, e xecutive Chef pam Green has been paving the way for female chefs for over twenty years.

Starting as a toast girl at a Wildwood diner at age 14, Chef pam has worked her way up the ladder, charting a path unlike anyone else in her field. this week, as she celebrated her birthday, Chef pam shared, “I'm living the best life. For a person my age, I'm healthy, I'm happy, I'm good at what I do. the people I work with are gifted. It sets a good example of what hard work can do.”

t hat life didn’t come without grit, sacrifice, and a commitment to healing. When pam struggled with addiction as a young adult, it was a 28-day rehabilitation program that got her back on her feet and into the kitchen, where she began to create a brand new life.

Following a move that didn’t go as planned, pam returned to South Jer-

sey, jobless and homeless. With years of experience under her belt, Green picked up a job in a small kitchen in Wildwood and began making her own way in a prominently male industry.

In the early 1980s, with a fire in her belly to cook, Chef pam applied for a sautee cook position in Avalon, NJ, where she became the first female cook on the hot line. Within three years, p am was named e xecutive Chef until the restaurant was sold in the early 90s, which would be the catalyst that brought her to Atlantic City.

pam continued to study her craft as a Sous Chef at the Claridge until opportunity called, and she accepted a position at Caesars Atlantic City, where she knew she’d be able to spread her wings and grow in her career. In 2001, Chef pam became the first female executive chef in Atlantic City, where she continued to flourish for 19 years at the Sheraton.

Chef pam explains, “You’re only as good as the people around you. I always hired people that had more training than me, and I learned from them as I learned how to be a good teacher.”

pam explained that it’s her sobriety and hunger to learn that have been ingredients to her “secret sauce.”

“I had an energy and clarity that a lot of people in our business don’t have,” she shared. “I let my work speak for itself. If I didn’t know something, I asked.”

Since 2020, Chef pam has served as the e xecutive Chef for the boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City, where she explains, “It’s about so much more than being a chef.”

b GCAC provides meals for approximately 250 kids every night under the culinary leadership of pam Green with the help of her all-female leadership team. b GCAC’s hospitality program offers the youth an opportunity to learn about nutrition, hospitality, and workforce skills.

“When I started at the Sheraton, I didn't put on my chef's coat for two weeks,” Chef pam told Shore Local. “I watched to see how everyone worked, how we could be better, what made more sense, what I liked or didn’t like. You have to be observant, humble, and assertive. You have to have a balance between humility and assertiveness, especially when you’re a female in this business.”

this week, pam is walking into her 72nd year healthy, happy, sober, and thriving, stating, “I’ve lived so many years healthy. Having deep and abiding relationships is a blessing, and I am thankful for that.”

OCEAN CITY Fall Block Party

Ocean City remembers 9/11 with ceremony

Photos by Steffen Klenk

Ocean City’s annual “A Day to r emember”

9/11 memorial ceremony was held m onday, Sept. 11, at the Ocean City tabernacle (it had originally been scheduled to be outdoors across from the Ocean City Fire Department).

the ceremony included music, prayer and reflections on the memory of lives lost and on the community spirit that was renewed in the wake of the tragedy. the event included the Striking of the Four Fives, a fire service tradition noting the death of a firefighter in the line of duty.

t his year’s keynote speaker was Frank Larkin, who was in the World trade Center working for the New York Office of the U.S. Secret Service when the planes hit on Sept. 11, 2001. Larkin served for more than two decades as a special agent and senior leader in the Secret Service.

Among positions in a long and diverse career in the public and private sectors, he was a Navy Se AL, a Norristown police officer, a montgomery County (pa.) homicide detective, a maryland State trooper flight paramedic, director of the Counter I eD Operations-Intelligence Integrations Center, the 40th U.S. Senate Sergeant

at Arms (overseeing the 2,200-member Capitol police Department), and he’s an advocate for veteran suicide prevention and traumatic brain injury research.

“I’m honored to have m r. Larkin join us in Ocean City for the ceremony, and I want to encourage everybody to attend,” mayor Jay Gillian said. “ even on the night of the attacks in 2001, mayor bud Knight invited the community to a prayer service at the tabernacle, while the fear of that day was still fresh. this was the 23rd time we’ve gathered in Ocean City on 9/11.”

Looking back at Ocean City's earliest days

On September 10, 1879, four m ethodist m inisters, ezra b . Lake, James Lake, S. Wesley Lake, and William burrell chose an island south of Atlantic City, as a suitable spot to establish a Christian retreat and camp meeting on the same order of Ocean Grove.

they met under a tall cedar tree and decided to call the area Ocean City; the tree now stands today in the lobby of the Ocean City tabernacle. Having chosen the name "Ocean City", the founders incorporated the Ocean City Association, and laid out streets and lots for cottages, hotels, and businesses. t he Ocean City tabernacle was built between Wesley and Asbury Avenues and between 5th and 6th Streets. Camp meetings were held the following summer and continue uninterrupted to this day.

Ocean City has not allowed the sale of alcoholic beverages within its limits since its founding in 1879.

Map dated 1903. #ocnj

Credit: Real Brigantine

College students – Thanks for your business

College success for less: Insider’s advice

By Bill Quain

If you’ve been a reader of this column over the summer months, you might be surprised to see this week’s “Six Words on a boardwalk bench.” my summer postings are more likely to be about shore memories than serious issues. However, as we swing into fall, I’m going to use the “Six Words” platform to address some timely and pressing issues. this week’s six words begins a five-part series on the rising costs of going to college. In the coming weeks, you’ll learn not only how to save money on a college education, but also improve the return on Investment (rOI) that you’ve already made for college. Stay tuned, because this is an important series for anyone who went to college, is in college right now, or who is planning on sending a child to college in the near future.

I’ve been a college professor for more than forty years. During that time, I learned a lot about how colleges work, and why they are so expensive. In addition, I paid for my own undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as my two daughters’ undergraduate educations. So yes, I’m an expert on the costs of college and the real secrets of how to save money – no matter which school you or your kids attend.

Secret #1: All colleges mean business.

Okay, let’s get started by going back to this week’s six words — “College students: thanks for your business.” the first thing you need to know about colleges is that they are seriously big business. this applies to every community college, Ivy League school, State University, and private college, whether nonprofit or for-profit. No matter what school you are considering, read these words very carefully: “We mean business!”

Let me use Stockton University, where I am employed as a professor, as a good example. Stockton is a great

school and a wonderful place to work. I have many fine colleagues there. the administration is top-notch, and the students are the best people in the world. Okay, I’m a bit prejudiced. the faculty is super dedicated to creating a great experience. All of that said, however, everyone who works at Stockton is in it for the money! It’s our business.

Now, I’m sure there are Stockton employees reading this column and screaming, “No way, b ill! We are in it for the students.” I know a lot of college faculty and staff really believe this. However, I wonder how many of them would work there if they were not getting paid. I know I wouldn’t do it for free – no matter how much I love the experience.

Stockton employees are represented by unions.

Are colleges big business? Yes! most college faculty and staff are represented by unions. What is the chief concern of most unions? Salaries! Who pays for faculty salaries? Students! (that’s actually understated. Since Stockton is a state University, everyone who pays taxes in New Jersey pays our salaries!)

You know that unions mean business.

So, there you are, an 18-year-old kid. You’re trying to decide on which college to attend. Here we are, university employees. What are we thinking about? the bills we have to pay. We have mortgages, loans, credit cards, taxes – you know, all the things that adults need money for. Like everyone else, our cost of living goes up every year. For many college employees, the only way to get a cost-of-living raise is through the union. that’s what unions do: they negotiate for more money. Sometimes they even go on strike to get it.

Last spring, the faculty union at rutgers University went on strike –three weeks before the end of the spring semester! What did they go on strike to get? A salary raise. Why would they do this three weeks before the end of the semester? the answer is simple. If they waited until the semester ended, they wouldn’t have gotten their raises. Did it inconvenience the students? Absolutely. Did the students get a discount from the university because their classes (that they had already paid for) were canceled? No, they did not.

Does all this make universities bad?

Absolutely not! Universities are great places. However, they are busi -

SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK BENCH by

Bill Quain

nesses, just like any other business. they take money in, and they spend it on buildings, employees, utilities, etc., just like any other business. Colleges perform an outstanding service for all their stakeholders. However, they are expensive places to run, and they take their fiscal responsibilities equally seriously.

And you – the 18-year-old student who agrees to pay us $100,000+ over the next four years – have no experience with business. m ost of you may have had summer jobs, but let’s face it: you didn’t learn much about how businesses conduct business. You are about to commit to the second-largest sum of money (next to a house mortgage) that you will ever spend in your entire lifetime, and you are just 18 years old! You need help! In the coming weeks, I’m going to deliver it to you, Six Words on a boardwalk bench at a time!

What most students want from college

In 2014, purdue University teamed up with the Gallup polling Company to identify exactly what people wanted from a college education. they boiled it down to four words: “ better job, better life.” We’ll talk more about that in a later column.

If you want a better return on your college investment, then start by paying less for it. there are ways to reduce the costs of college! I’ll share these insider secrets with you in the coming weeks.

So stay tuned. email your questions to bill@quain.com. I’ll answer each one – either in this column or with a personal response. As I say each week: I’ll see ya in the papers!

Bill is a Professor in Stockton University’s Hospitality Management Program. He is the author of 27 books, and a highly-respected speaker. Even though he is almost totally blind, Bill is a long-distance runner and runs the Ocean City Half Marathon each year. He lives in Ocean City with his wife Jeanne, and his Guide Dog Trudy. Visit www.billquain.com or email him at bill@quain.com.

S PADAAFORA’S

What’s Happening in Ocean City

Ocean City’s Air Show to Fly This Weekend

All eyes will turn to the sky for Ocean City’s Air Show Weekend on Sept. 16 and 17. All events are free to attend, and the early forecasts call for sunny and clear skies.

the celebration starts with the Ocean City Airport Festival on Saturday (Sept. 16) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the festival features a ground display of unusual airplanes ranging from warbirds to helicopters. the event will feature a parachute jump from team Fastrax, “America’s Skydiving team.” It also will include food vendors, music, vehicle displays and kids’ activities.

the skydiving team will perform at the Airport Festival at 12 p.m., depending on wind and weather conditions. Ocean City Solicitor Dottie m cCrosson is scheduled to make a tandem jump with one of the team professionals.

A half-mile “ runway run/Walk” will return and is open to all ages. It offers a chance for anybody to cover ground normally traversed only by planes. the run will go off after the skydiving jump. Children’s activities will include airplane and coloring contests between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. All-day activities include “ bubble mania,” face-painting, helicopter rides available for purchase, city vehicle displays and special guests m artin and m ollie m ollusk.

t he festival takes place at the m unicipal Airport at 26th Street and bay Avenue. Additional parking for the festival will be available at Shelter road (off tennessee Avenue) with free shuttle service provided.

the parachute p yrotechnic Show will go off over Ocean City at 8 p.m. Saturday (Sept. 16). the show consists of several highly trained and specially licensed team Fastrax parachuters exiting an aircraft 6,000 feet above Ocean City’s beach and boardwalk. b rilliant white or multicolored projectile pyrotechnics are then ignited as the parachuters fly in formation, creating a dazzling display for spectators on the ground. the jump will end with a landing on the Seventh Street b each and will be viewable along the entire boardwalk.

t he b oardwalk Aerobatic Air Show will bring some of the best stunt pilots and aerobatic champions in the nation to put on a show over the beach and boardwalk starting at 1 p.m. Sunday (Sept. 17). Some of the performers will include:

● Rick Volker Air Shows: Volker pushes the boundaries of both low- and high-speed limits, and artfully utilizes the smallest three-dimensional space to create a masterpiece of entertainment.

● David Windmiller Air Shows: Windmiller will execute gyroscopic tumbles, spins, aerial cartwheels, torque rolls and soaring feats of precision in a light and agile Zivko edge 540.

● Jersey Jerks: t he “Jerks” are highly experienced and trained formation pilots who have been a part of the Warbird community for most of their lives. they are only moderately grumpy.

● Full Throttle Formation Team: Aviation professionals with more

Homemade Crab Cake, Deviled Crab, Crab Imperial Live Lobster, Tuna, Mahi, Swordfish, Halibut

than 300,000 total hours of flight experience in military and commercial aircraft. they fly “Van’s Aircraft” experimental aircraft. ● Team Fastrax: the team will make a jump to open the show. thousands of spectators typically soak up some of the final days of the calendar summer as they watch the spectacle from the beach and boardwalk. the show is best viewed from the area between Fifth Street and 14th Street. there is no rain date for any of the shows, and air performances may be canceled if weather conditions do not allow for safe flying.

Ocean City Pops Season Finale on Saturday

After their breathtaking performance with the Ocean City pops in 2022, the stars of the Atlantic City ballet return to heat up the m usic pier stage in “Dance elegance” on Saturday, Sept. 16. Forging a new, continuing artistic partnership between the ballet and the OC pops, m aestro Vince Lee is delighted to highlight the talents of neighboring arts organizations. the pops will also shine as they play dance-themed orchestral features. A great way to finish an exciting season. Ocean City

music pier, 7:30 p.m. tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice or 609-399-6111.

Coming up in September Ocean City, NJ Jeep Invasion (Sept. 23): Jeeps will be displayed on the boardwalk between Fifth Street and 14th Street from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www. NJJeepInvasion.com.

OCNJ Half m arathon, 5k & 10 m ile Non-Competitive Walk/ run (Sept. 24): Choose your distance and participate in one of New Jersey’s favorite race events. Advance

registration required for the half marathon. Sign up early to save on registration fees at www.ocnj.us/ race- events.

boardwalk and Downtown table Sales (Sept. 30-Oct. 1): m erchants offer special deals – Sixth Street to 14th Street along Asbury Avenue and the boardwalk.

mS City to Shore ride (Sept. 30Oct. 1): About 7,000 cyclists raise millions of dollars through a two-day charity ride from the philadelphia area to Ocean City and back. For more information, call 1-800-445- b IKe or visit www.mscycling.org.

Ocean City Arts Center

feature photography of George Gehring

'Farmitecture', intriguing photographs of barns as only photographer George Gehring can capture, will be featured in the Gallery at the Ocean City Arts Center.

City, b rooklyn, Los Angeles, San Francisco—studied abroad in rome, Italy, and traveled around the globe. Looking at the world through his own lens and capturing those ‘just found’ moments is his passion.

What I discovered was that I have a bit of a fascination with farm life, most notably the myriad barns that dot the winding, sloping roads. I’m mesmerized by the interplay of each barn’s unique design elements: the geometrical shapes of their roof lines, their sun-faded colors, the subtle textures of the weather-worn wood, the intersection of their various planes, and so on. those elements, juxtaposed with the negative space

of the sky—a characteristic found in so much of my work—form a design of sorts, a farm-inspired architecture.

Or as I’ve started referring to it: “farmitecture.”

the show opens Oct. 2 and runs through Oct. 28. A “ meet the Artists" reception will be held on Friday, Oct. 13 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. the Gallery is located in the Ocean City Arts Center, 1735 Simpson Avenue, 2nd Floor, Ocean City, NJ.

George was born and raised in Ocean City, NJ, where summers were magical: forever sunny beach days; endless swims in the ocean; amusements and treats on the bustling board; long lazy bike rides. the beach is his heaven on earth—it's the reason it’s the subject of so many of his pictures.

When it comes to life, he likes to say: "I’ve taken the scenic route." He’s lived in many cities—New York

George says, “For a number of years, I’ve had a mild curiosity with country living—that comes from a city guy who’s spent three decades in big metropolises. but over the last year or so that slight interest has blossomed: I started getting more and more excited about getting lost on the back roads of pennsylvania, intentionally unplugging my G pS, exploring the picturesque landscapes that unfolded at nearly every turn.

The Jersey Shore is open all year long

ton’s, the various surf merchandise from the new ron Jon’s and 7th Street Surf Shop and much more.

Oh, and did I tell you about all of the fantastic eateries. You have great breakfast, lunch and dinner establishments, coffee shops along with many specialty food shops.

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

Goodbye summer and hello fall in Ocean City and the other Jersey Shore towns. Years ago, Labor Day would come and the Jersey Shore would roll up the welcome mats until the following year. today, fortunately, it is a different story. the Jersey Shore stays vibrant through the fall and the holiday season.

people are finally discovering that September, October and even through the Christmas holiday season is truly a fantastic time here. the crowds have thinned out, but more and more people are discovering that the Jersey Shore is a nice place not just to visit, but to take up year-round residence as well.

Since COVID, many people have made the decision to make their investment/second homes their per-

manent homes. this is a great trend which is helping our local economy.

Weekends in the fall are host to numerous events up and down the Jersey Shore, which draw visitors from all over the Delaware Valley and beyond, helping our economy with activities ranging from block parties to car shows, cultural events and much more. With the events come the people who fill rental homes, motels and restaurants.

even during the week, people are discovering how to take advantage of the discount rates, great weather and

Fall concerts Family nights Film screenings

You’ll

warm ocean water. the secret is out that the fall is the best season.

When I look down Ocean City’s Asbury Avenue nowadays, I see a retail outdoor mall extravaganza that I would put next to any shopping district in New Jersey. t he quality of stores that have established businesses there during the past 20 years makes it a special place where shoppers can find unique gifts that can’t be found at the big box stores.

t hey can choose from quality women’s clothing stores, shoe stores, the unique merchandise from Stain -

You come to Asbury Avenue for the total retail and food experience. You come to find unique items and support local entrepreneurs. When you finish on the Avenue, the next stop for your getaway is a relaxing stroll down the boardwalk at night or the next day.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, remember our local business owners in Ocean City and the other Jersey Shore towns. they are open all year and need your support. Stop, shop, play and stay at the Jersey Shore all year. Come out for the block parties, parades, all the events and enjoy our beautiful area.

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

Whether

Staintons on Asbury Avenue.

Sunshine Foundation holds Golf Classic

By Donald B Kravitz

The 28th Annual, All Volunteer Ocean City Cape Atlantic Chapter held its Sunshine Golf Classic, for the Sunshine Foundation on m onday, Sept. 11, 2023, at Greate bay Country Club in Somers point, New Jersey.

Sunshine Foundation answers the dreams of children, ages three through eighteen, who have severe or profound physical/developmental/intellectual challenges or trauma from physical/sexual abuse, and whose families have limited income.

Sunshine Foundation is the original wish-granting organization established in 1976 by former philadelphia police officer b ill Sample. While on protective duty at a philadelphia area children’s hospital, bill witnessed firsthand the financial and emotional burden placed on the families of children with illnesses. He saw that so

many families could not afford to give their sick child a wish. b ill, with the help of a handful of other dedicated

people, got together to answer Sunshine Foundation’s first dream: a trip to the pocono m ountains for bobby,

who wanted to see the mountains and play in the snow. bobby passed away a short while after that, but not before his only wish was realized. For further information including how to volunteer or apply for a wish, please go to www.sunshinefoundation.org.

Donald B. Kravitz is an Entertainment & Special Events photographer for national publications including Getty Images & Miss America

Lynda and Stevie visit Madame Marie

By Bill Kelly

Lynda Van Devanter and her boyfriend, “JJ,” walked out of the Dunes nightclub a little after 8 in the morning, squinting from the garish sun as it rose over margate. they were each sporting fresh blue t-shirts that read, “ b ay Shores,” on the front and on the back, “Dunes 'til Dawn,” with the image of a rising sun. they had won them in a dance contest earlier that night.

It was following a rock ‘n’ roll turns ten party celebrating the decade that had passed since b ill Haley and His Comets’ “ rock Around the Clock” became the first rock ‘n’ roll song to reach No.1 on the b illboard charts.

t hey were with fellow nursing students barbara and Gigi, walking across the vast, now empty parking lot to Lynda’s black ’62 Chevy Nova convertible with its top down. they all piled in and Lynda drove across the Ocean Drive bridge to Ocean City, having to make the first significant decision of the day – should they go back to their rooming house or hit

the beach?

the beach won in a hands-down, unanimous decision. though JJ didn’t vote, he would go with whatever the girls decided.

John Joseph Smith was a local boy from nearby tuckahoe in Upper township and attended Ocean City High School before enlisting in the

Army. He had just returned from a year-long deployment in Vietnam, JJ was on leave until Labor Day when he had to report to his unit at Fort Dix.

Lynda parked on the street a half block from the boardwalk. Carrying their blankets and beach chairs, they walked across the boards and past the hippies gathering at Shriver’s pavilion. taking their shoes off, they walked through the cool, soft sand that would soon be hot from the sun. Setting their blankets down in their preferred spot next to the huge, black granite boulders of the jetty, they surveyed the scene around them and the hundred or so people already on the beach they could recognize, some of them from the Anchorage, tony mart’s, bay Shores and Dunes the night before.

It wasn’t long before Chris and Katie, the mayor’s daughters, came by and set up in their spot nearby. they all had met there on the beach on m emorial Day and became fast friends. Lynda regaled the sisters with stories of what occurred the previous night – seven-for-a-dollar beers at the Anchorage, the Hawks and bill Haley and His Comets at to -

ny mart’s, the Jodimars at Steele’s, t ito m ambo and the m essiahs of Soul, the unscheduled appearance of Sam the Sham & the pharaohs at bay Shores and the dance contest at the Dunes. the sisters were annoyed they missed it all.

t he unwritten but respected beach rule was to keep radios off in the morning so people could sleep,

SHOPPES AT THE ASBURY

A Legend is Born

By the owners of Staintons Beautifully

Linda

Stevie

and after a little catnap, JJ woke up, and picked up a medical textbook, began quizzing the girls as they had graduated from m ercy Hospital nursing school in baltimore, they were preparing for their state board exams.

Stephanie Nicks joined them as she wasn’t due to work as a waitress at Watson’s until lunchtime. She lived for the summer with her grandmother and brought along her acoustic guitar. because her little cousins couldn’t pronounce Stephanie, they called her Stevie, and the nickname caught on.

Among those who came by to say hello to the girls were the lifeguards when they came on duty: Jim Croce, one of the hippies with his guitar who knew JJ from when he was in the Army reserves at Fort Dix, and Silvio, a young Italian law student kicking a soccer ball around on the beach.

Jim sat down on the blanket and told JJ he was writing a song about their drill sergeant at Fort Dix – big bad Leroy brown. JJ laughed and said he had to go back to Dix and report for duty on Labor Day, and wasn’t looking forward to it.

A Visit with madame marie

For the girls at the shore there were only two kinds of days – sunny beach days and cloudy not a beach day. So it was this one cloudy not a beach day when Lynda and Stephanie,

Chris and Katie, JJ and Jim stayed on routine and sat on their beach towels and blankets anyway. b ut after an hour or so, while JJ and the sisters dozed off on their blankets, Lynda and Stephanie decided to take a walk on the boards.

their first stop was at Del’s Grill and they talked with young Joe as he made them a miss-steak cheesesteak with the works which they split in half and ate as they walked down the boardwalk. After the last crusty bite, they ducked into an arcade instant photo booth and took four one-inchsquare, black-and-white head shots,

giggling and laughing along the way.

With their pockets still lush with tips, they walked a little farther, but both stopped in their tracks almost at the same time in front of madame marie’s, the gypsy fortune teller, who must have had the smallest boardwalk frontage at maybe 4 feet across and two small rooms deep.

they knew madame m arie from passing her and saying hello a half dozen times a day, but this was the first time they were going to plunk some money down to have their fortunes told by “ t he m istress of Destiny.”

madame marie was sitting where she was usually found, in the rocking chair knitting and smiling at every face that goes by. Other boardwalk barkers and hawkers were always talking and had a dozen lines they used to get you to stop and spin a wheel, take a shot or come in for a good time. Not madame marie. She just sat there and smiled until someone stopped to read the sign, smell the incense and wonder, if only for a moment, what it was all about.

marie’s eyes lit up as she realized the girls were coming in for the fulltilt monty, so she put the knitting down and pulled back a curtain to get behind a small table with two chairs in front of it. Following her behind the curtain, the girls had to adjust their

eyes to the darkness, lit only by a single candle that was off to the side.

“Since I see you girls every day and you reward me with such beautiful smiles, I will give your fortune for half price: two for one,” marie said in broken english, with a snatch of brogue, as marie was of a family of Irish gypsies called t inkers in the old country because of the clang of the pans on the side of their colorful wood wagons.

↘Continued on 38

Photo booth pix

Photo Booth

“First we will look into the ball to see your future destinies together, and then we will use the cards to explore each of your futures in life,” marie said softly. taking a silk scarf off the crystal ball in the middle of the table, marie instructed the girls to each place a hand on the side of the ball and pick it up together, which they did, and followed marie’s instructions to shake it gently.

the ball was suddenly filled with a cloud of multi-colored dust and sugar sand that slowly descended as the girls put the ball back on its round wood stand. the settling sand and dust particles formed a pattern, an apparently random one that only madame marie could read. “ the ball reflects the near future of all of us while the cards tell us what lies in the future for each of us,” she said.

Looking intently into the ball marie put her hands to her head and smiled.

“Your association is new,” said marie, “but it will be long and eventful, as there is magic in the air and a monumental experience will bring you close together. You will travel and have many great adventures before you will separate for a long time, many years, but you will remain friends forever.”

“Friends forever,” she repeated.

“And that monumental event will

happen soon,” she cautioned, before turning to the stack of cards on the table.

After having Stephanie shuffle the cards, marie placed them on the table in front of her. Looking at Stephanie, she turned over the top card and drew a joker.

m arie looked at the card and then looked Stephanie in the eyes, laughed, smiled and said, “You get to keep the joker, and use it whenever you like, but,” she paused for a moment, “it only works once, so don’t squander it.” then suddenly, grabbing one of Stephanie’s hands, she turned it over and glanced at it before saying, “and don’t use it for fame or fortune because they are already yours.”

Lynda declined to shuffle the cards saying, “I like the way Stevie shuffled them,” and looked at marie’s face flash in horror as she drew and glanced at the card before setting it down saying – “the Devil at the Gates of Hell!”

“You will meet the Devil and see Hell,” m arie said without emotion, “but you will be snatched from the banshee’s jaws by an angel from the sky, a bird, a whirly bird, and save many lives and souls along the way that will redeem you for your sins, and you will be, as they say, you will be in Heaven before the Devil even knows you’re dead.”

With that, m arie blew out the candle and pulled back the curtain so the cloudy light of day could shine through and make them squint as they emerged back into the sights, sounds and smells of the boardwalk carnival. they ran across the boards in their bare feet, went down the steps, laughing and ran along the breaking surf until they got to the Ninth Street jetty where they knew, on the other side, sisters Chris and Katie, JJ and Jim were waiting on their blankets to hear all about their adventure – their meeting madame m arie, their fortunes and destinies – “Friends Forever,” they yelled over and over and slapped hands as they ran along in the wet sand and jumped over the wet, black rock jetty.

Later that afternoon, as the sun peaked out from behind the clouds and the beach began to fill up with kids, Jim commented on the city commissioners wanting to ban music on the beach and boardwalk. “First

they close the beaches at night so we can’t sleep there and now they want to ban music all together? What’s this world coming to?” he asked rhetorically, though no one responded.

Katie said their father was against the resolution – it was an infringement on free speech he argued, but the other commissioners were adamant.

Around 2 o’clock, while JJ and the sisters kicked the soccer ball around the water’s edge with Silvio, Lynda took a dip in the gentle breakers and then gave Jim and his guitar a ride across the causeway to Somers point. He was asked to get dropped off at the Anchorage tavern where he was to finish writing his song while Lynda went to work in the emergency room at Shore m emorial Hospital a few blocks away.

to comment on this story billkelly3@gmail.com

Next Up- episode 15 - A Slice In time

Madam Marie

Eagles still among NFC contenders

ni made several questionable decisions, especially going for it on fourth-and-two late in the fourth quarter.

By David Weinberg

Relax, eagles fans. the b irds weren't very impressive in their 25-20 victory at New england last Sunday, but it's way too early in the NFL season to worry.

Granted, there are a few causes for concern with the e agles. t he star-studded offense produced just one touchdown. Quarterback Jalen Hurts didn't look like an m Vp candidate. New running back D'Andre Swift had one carry for 3 yards and one reception for no gain. tight end Dallas Goedert was shut out. punter Arryn Sipposs showed why he's on the practice squad. Coach Nick Sirian -

Defensively, p atriots wide receivers and tight ends were left uncovered by a revamped e agles linebacker corps. And their best linebacker Nakobe Dean, is ex-

an immediate impact. Cornerback Darius Slay returned an interception 70 yards for a tD. place-kicker Jake elliott booted four field goals, including a 56-yarder that is tied for the third-longest of his career.

ond round of the men's Senior A flight of Cape may National Golf Club Championship. I shot 83-88 — 171 in the 36-hole tournament and even carded two birdies in Sunday's second round. I wound up finishing second. that and $2.25 will get me a 20-ounce cup of hazelnut coffee (I refuse to drink pumpkin spice until at least the third week of October) at Wawa.

the eagles' slow start prompted fans to wonder if Sirianni had erred by not playing his starters during the preseason. Hurts and company looked a bit out of sync for much of the game.

pected to be miss at least a couple weeks with a foot injury.

b ut there were also some bright spots. New defensive coordinator Sean DeSai had a decent debut. rookie defensive tackle Jalen Carter made

to paraphrase billy Hoyle in "White m en Can't Jump," — one of my favorite sports movies, by the way — tis better to look bad and win than look good and lose.

take me, for example. I actually missed the first quarter of the eagles' game because I was playing the sec-

there was also the eagles' odd backfield rotation. Swift was expected be the main running back with rashaad penny serving as his main backup. Kenny Gainwell and boston Scott were slated for rotational roles. Instead, Swift was a nonfactor and penny was inactive. Gainwell had 14

↘Continued on 40

carries for 54 yards and four receptions for 20 yards.

e xpect a better effort on thursday, when the eagles play their home opener against minnesota, which lost 20-17 to tampa bay Sunday. but even if the eagles struggle again or even lose, there's still too much football left to be concerned. Unless you're the New York Giants.

Wildwood, Wildwood Catholic resume rivalry

Kudos to Wildwood High School and Wildwood Catholic Academy for renewing their sports rivalry last weekend.

the Warriors and Crusaders met Saturday morning in boys soccer, boys and girls cross country and girls tennis. It marked the first time the two schools had met in any sport since 2017.

Wildwood won the soccer match 7-2, Wildwood Catholic earned a 3-2 win in girls tennis. According to CapeAtlanticLive.com, neither school had the minimum five runners to score in the boys cross country meet while Wildwood Catholic had a 15-50 edge in the girls race.

the boys soccer game was the first between the rivals since 2014.

" this is a fantastic thing," Wildwood soccer coach Sal Zampirri told

Fall Classes for Creative Students!

Quality classes with highly educated faculty and professional artists!

Dance

Children’s Dance Division- Classes for the little ballerina!

CapeAtlanticLive.com. " this is about getting the kids out there to play each other and geting that camaraderie on the island going again. these guys all have buddies on the other side. they grew up together in grammar school. this is all about the kids. We have to keep this thing rolling."

Here's hoping it extends to other sports, especially boys and girls basketball. basketball rules both schools, where fans pack the respective gyms each winter. For various reasons, however, the teams haven't met since the boys played at the Wildwoods Convention Center in the boardwalk Classic in 2017. the girls squad last played at the same tournament in 2015.

t hey are tentatively scheduled to play at Wildwood High on Feb. 3, 2024.

Ocean in motion

Last weekend's Club Championship was part of an eventful threeday span for me. You might think that the hardest hit delivered during that span occurred in one of the NFL, college football or high school football games.

Wrong.

None of the tackles or sacks compared to the lick I took during my

Visual Arts

Pastels, Watercolor Mixed-Media & One-of a kind art projects!

Explore and create ! All supplies included.

Sept 2023-June 2024 36 Weeks / 4 Quarters -9 weeks each

Drawing I: Ages 8yrs-12yrs Beginner. • Mon 4:30 PM-5:30pm

Drawing and Painting II: Ages 9yrs-12yr Intermediate • Mon 5:45 -7:15pm

Drawing I: Ages: 6yrs-11yrs Beginner• Thur 5:00-6:00pm

Drawing I Ages 9yrs-Teens • Thur 6:05-7:05pm

Drawing II Ages 11yrs- Teens • Thur 7:10 PM-8:10pm

Music

Private Music & Vocal Lessons- Private lessons are year round.

Students ages 5-100yrs will learn and perform at individual pace. Vocals, Piano, Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Guitar, Trumpet, Drums, Ukelele and Mandolin. Lessons are taught for all levels and experience. All lessons are by appointment. Call to Schedule a lesson.

Cygnus String Ensemble Classes are held on Thursdays beginning September 28,

Time: 6:00-8:30pm. Performances throughout the area during the holiday season. Please call for additional information.

Art for the Young At Heart *** - Classes in the Arts for Senior residents 65+ in Atlantic County. Class size is limited. Registration is required. 1(one) Art class only Start Feb. 3-Nov. 30. 2023

Chi Advanced • Fri 9:30-10:30am Yoga • Wed 3:15-4:15pm or 7:40-8:40pm

Registration Open, visit: CygnusArts.org

Or call 609.272.1199 or stop by

daily ocean dip in Cape may m onday afternoon.

It seemed calm enough when I ventured in on the beach at trenton Avenue. m inutes later, the waves grew bigger but it was still OK. I dove under a few swells and jumped over a few more before deciding to head in by letting a swell push me back toward shore.

Instead, poseidon decided to have a little fun at my expense. He lifted and tossed me toward the beach, sending me toppling, turning and rolling with such force that I nearly ended up on the front porch of the peter Shields Inn across the street.

A quick self-check revealed that I hadn't lost my bathing suit. However, my dignity was down around my ankles.

David is a nationally recognized sports columnist who has covered Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his own Facebook page, Dave Weinberg Extra Points. Send comments to weinbergd419@comcast.net.

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Whitney's Weekly Picks

There are some really fun happenings coming up, so make sure to support your local venues and get your tickets in advance so you don’t miss out. Oh, and feel free to tag me in your photos and videos.

What: the Launch of ACX1 Studios

Where: Caesars pier

When: thursday, Sept. 14 Time: 3 p.m.

Tickets: $35

Website: ACX1StUDIOS.com

3 p.m. is the ribbon cutting; performances 5-8 p.m. with special guests and music by DJ b ishop, plus a VI p meet and greet from 8 to 11 p.m.

Who: Zac brown band

Where: Hard rock Atlantic City

When: Friday, Sept. 15

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com

Don’t miss your chance to see this eight-man, Grammy Award-winning country rock group.

Who: the beach boys

Where: Caesars Atlantic City

When: Friday, Sept. 15 Time: 8 p.m.

Website: www.caesars.com/caesars-ac/shows

Come sing along to dozens of chart-topping hits by the beach boys.

Who: Comedian Craig Gass

Where: AC Jokes at resorts Casino Hotel

When: Friday, Sept. 15, and Saturday, Sept. 16

Time: Friday at 9 p.m. and Saturday at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Website: resortsac.com/entertainment/ac-jokes-special-event-show/ Featured on “Family Guy,” “King of Queens,” “Sex and the City,” and “ the Howard Stern Show,” comedian Craig Gass will bring his hilarious comedy routine to the AC Jokes stage for three shows Friday and Saturday.

Who: boyz II m en

Where: borgata Hotel

Casino & Spa

When: Saturday, Sept. 16

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: borgata.mgmresorts.com/ en/entertainment/event-center/ boyz-ii-men.html

One of the most iconic r&b groups in music history, boyz II m en will sing their decades of hits at borgata.

What: Atlantic City Jazz Festival

Where: Ocean Casino resort

When: Saturday, Sept. 16

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: theatlanticcityjazzfest.com the fourth annual Atlantic City Jazz Festival hosted by patty Jackson will take place at Ovation Hall featuring high-energy performances by top artists.

What: AC tattoo Art revival

Where: Anchor rock Club

When: Saturday, Sept. 16

Time: 6 p.m.

Website: anchorrockclub.com blue Sky tattoo presents the Atlantic City tattoo revival, a pop-up gallery featuring more than 50 pop-up artists, live music and live painting demonstrators.

The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman

What: Ocean City Airport Festival

Where: m unicipal Airport, 26th St. and bay Ave.

When: Saturday, Sept. 16

Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Features a ground display of unusual and classic airplanes and a parachute jump from team Fastrax.

Who: Ocean City pops presents Dance elegance with the Atlantic City ballet

Where: Ocean City m usic pier

When: Saturday, Sept. 16

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Website: www. showpass.com/o/ city-of-ocean-city/ After their breathtaking feature with the Ocean City pops in 2022, the stars of the Atlantic City ballet return to heat up the music pier Stage.

What: Antique Auto Day

Where: Village Greene at Historic Smithville

When: Sunday, Sept. 17

Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Website: www.historicsmithville.com See some spectacular vehicles. Free admission.

Who: m egadeth

Where: Hard rock Hotel & Casino

When: Sunday, Sept. 17

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com

Join Hard rock for an unforgettable night of pure rock and metal fury as m egadeth takes the stage.

What: Ocean City boardwalk Aerobatic Airshow

Where: the b each and the boardwalk from Fifth Street to 14th Street

When: Sunday, Sept. 17

Time: 1 p.m.

Featuring some of the best stunt pilots and aerobatic champions in the world.

What: USA pickleball Indoor National Championships

Where: Atlantic City Convention Center

When: m onday, Sept. 19 - Friday, Sept. 23

Time: 4 p.m.

Website: atlanticcitypickleballopen. com

the Atlantic City pickleball Open is presented by total pickleball.

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!

Atlantic City Headliners

Killer Queen ▶8 p.m. t he m usic b ox at borgata

Saturday, September 23

Duran Duran: Future Past

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean

The Guess Who

▶9 p.m.

Golden Nugget Atlantic City

Rene Liu

▶10 p.m. Hard r ock Live at etess Arena

Thursday, September 28

The Spinners

▶3:30 p.m. tropicana Showroom

Friday, September 29

Wu-Tang Clan & Nas

▶8 p.m.

Friday, September 22

Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall

September in the Park

▶9 p.m. tropicana Showroom

Saturday, September 30

Yachtley Crew

▶8 p.m.

Harrah’s Atlantic City

DSL: Dire Straits Legacy

▶9 p.m. Golden Nugget Atlantic City

Sunday, October 1

Tiffany Haddish

▶7 p.m. Hard rock Live at etess Arena

Friday, October 6

RuPaul’s Drag Race: Night of the Living Drag

▶8 p.m.

Hard rock Live at etess Arena

Vic DiBitetto

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Anthony Rodia

▶9 p.m.

the m usic box at borgata

Saturday, October 7

Vic DiBitetto

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Travis Tritt

▶8 p.m.

Circus maximus theater at Caesars

Killer Queen

▶7 p.m. the m usic box at borgata

Sunday, October 8

The Doobie Brothers ▶8 p.m.

Hard rock Live at etess Arena

Dogstar ▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Sack O’Subs reopening in Ventnor while Mr. Gordo’s expands in more ways than one

By Scott Cronick

If you are one of the legions who have missed being able to grab a legendary Sack O’ Sub in Ventnor, the wait is almost over.

As we all know, the iconic sub spot was devastated in June 2022 when a fire destroyed the landmark restaurant.

b ut, thanks to some shuffling of the real estate deck, Sack O’ Subs will swap spots with its next-doorneighbor, m r. Gordo’s taqueria, not only enabling Sack O’ Subs to reopen but offering Gordo’s fans a larger space with more seating, including an expanded outdoor dining space.

A bit of a downer is that m r. Gordo’s taqueria temporarily closed last weekend to clear the way for Sack O’ Subs. Gordo’s Owner robert Idell

said he hopes construction on the new Gordo’s will begin this fall and be ready to debut a bigger and better Gordo’s experience early next summer.

“It was a win-win for Sack ’O Subs and us,” Idell said. “We will now

have a beautiful outdoor space and more seating inside and outside. It’s also just a better flow for the whole block as Sack ’O Subs will be right on the corner, giving their customers easy access to come and go since

they have such an incredible takeout business. It’s exciting for both of our businesses, as well as our Downbeach customers.”

Anthony Sacco, a third-generation Sack ’O Subs owner, said he is finalizing plans with an architect and hopes to be open as soon at some time in November. When Sacco reopens the Ventnor location, which he was ready to do last summer after it briefly closed during an ownership change that was further delayed by the June fire, he is going to make his family proud.

$33 LOBSTER TAIL FRIDAYS 10-12 oz. Lobster tail with garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus and choice of soup or salad

10 OZ AMERICAN WAGYU RIB EYE 28 over pumpk in risotto and topped with caramelized mushrooms & onions

PUMPKIN GNOCCHI 19

ser ved in a maple pecan cream sauce and topped with truffle oil

POMEGRANATE GLAZED PORK CHOP 25 ser ved with mashed potatoes and candied in Brussels sprouts

BRAISED SHORT RIB 25

ser ved over mashed potatoes and asparagus with butternut squash cream sauce

Sacco’s grandfather Anthony “Fuzzy” Sacco, who is now in his 90s, was one of the founders of the White House Sub Shop in Atlantic City in 1947 before splitting off and opening the first Sack ’O Subs in Ventnor in 1969. Fuzzy’s son Al opened the first of two Ocean City locations, which he still owns, in 1994, followed by his son Anthony opening a location in Absecon in 1999, with his second location slated for the Ventnor reopening this fall. there’s also another location inside bally’s Atlantic City and another in egg Harbor township.

“ robert is right when he said it just makes sense for both of us,” Sacco said. “Our location will be smaller and more manageable, but we will have outdoor seating, which we never had before. that will be great for the summer when we need it. the fire was devastating, but I never let myself get too upset over it because I knew we would always get back there

↘Continued on 48

Rendering of new home of Sack O' Subs and Mr. Gordo's in Ventnor.

and reopen it while my grandfather is still alive.”

When Sack ’O Subs does reopen, it will feature the same menu as the Absecon location including the family’s famous subs, as well as Italian dinners, too.

Customers will, of course, be able to order the legendary regular Italian, their store-cooked roast beef, their addictive whipped tuna and homemade chicken salad, cheesesteaks, homemade meatball and Italian hot sausage subs, homemade soups and assortment of salads. but, unlike some locations, Ventnor will offer pasta dinners including stuffed

shells, manicotti and ravioli, as well as specialty dinners including chicken, sausage, meatball and eggplant parm, chicken cacciatore and more.

As for m r. Gordo’s, the Idell family will not only have a new-andimproved location when it reopens next summer in Ventnor, but they also have plans to bring the m exican taqueria concept to Ocean City as soon as this fall, too … but more on that soon.

“We are excited about what we have in store for m r. Gordo’s in the near future,” Idell said. “We can’t wait to talk about it more.”

When Gordo’s does return, it will be with their signature items includ -

ing m r. Gordo’s Nachos with homemade cheese sauce, refried beans, jalapenos, scallions, diced tomatoes, guacamole, sour cream and your choice of chicken, chorizo or steak; their awesome deep-fried flautas with chicken tinga, diced tomatoes, lettuce, queso fresco and m exican crema; a variety of tacos, burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas and tortas; and their standout entrée, m r. Gordo’s parrillada with skirt steak, chicken, chorizo and shrimp served with nopal cebollines, grilled jalapenos, guac and limes served with rice, refried beans and corn tortillas.

Go to SackOSubs.com and mrGordos.com for updates.

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.

Live & Local Music Calendar

The Yard at Bally’s Hometown radio

10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.

1900 pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

brandon Ireland trio

6 p.m. the Coconutz

10 p.m.

500 boardwalk

Friday,

Karle Gwen

9 p.m.

247 S. New York Ave.

Hard Rock Café

Dueling pianos

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino big bang baby

7 p.m. the benjamins

11 p.m.

500 boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

FRIDAY - SEPT. 15

Big Foot Band 7pm-11pm

SATURDAY - SEPT. 16

Doug Jennings on Keyboard & Saxophone 4pm-7pm Chris Yoder Band 8pm-12am

SUNDAY - SEPT. 17

Football Sunday!

FRIDAY - SEPT. 22

The Company Band 8pm-12am

SATURDAY - SEPT. 23

Doug Jennings on Keyboard & Saxophone 3pm-7pm Bar None Band 8pm-12am

SUNDAY - SEPT 24

Football Sunday!

matt Adams

6 – 10 p.m.

m egan Knight

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall

Dr. phil and the Heart Attacks

9 p.m. – 12 a.m.

133 S. tennessee Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

billy Walton band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Austin City Nights

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 boardwalk

The Royce

m 80. 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. 2801 pacific Ave.

Brigantine

The Pub at St. George

No Clue Duo

8 p.m.

4282 Harbor beach blvd.

Egg Harbor Township

The Roost Pub & Grill

rob Lipkin

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr.

Margate

Bocca

bob & Nicky

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

bobby Williams

8:30 p.m.

316 roosevelt blvd.

Northfield

Atlantic City Country Club

Doug Jennings

5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

1 Leo Frazer Dr.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

big Foot band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 bay Ave.

Fitzpatrick’s Deli and Steakhouse

Andy berlin

6 – 9 p.m.

650 New rd.

The

Saturday,

Nola’s

Northfield

5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

1 Leo Frazer Dr.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Doug Jennings

4 – 7 p.m.

Chris Yoder band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 bay Ave.

The Point

Side Story band

7 – 11 p.m.

998 bay Ave.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater Riverdeck

80s revolution. 5 – 9 p.m.

2780 7th Ave.

Sunday, September 17

Atlantic City

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

DJ ben Campbell

8 p.m.

500 boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony

4 – 7:30 p.m.

Cat 5

8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1000 boardwalk

Egg Harbor City

Renault Winery

Sheri Lyn Duo

6 – 10 p.m.

72 N. bremen Ave.

Margate

Bocca

Doug Jennings

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Mays Landing

Balic Winery

Dr. t and the Crowd pleasers

1 – 5 p.m.

6623 Harding Hwy.

SOMERS POINT & EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP

Five reasons to get to Hard Rock this weekend

By Danielle Davies

There are very few places as iconic as Hard rock Café, but that’s just one of the many reasons to visit Hard rock Hotel & Casino. As one of Atlantic City’s newest casinos, it’s got something pretty spectacular happening every day, and this weekend is hardly the exception.

1. The Zac Brown Band

International Country m usic Day rolls around but once a year so you’ve got to make it count. Celebrate it and country favorites like “Chicken Fried” and “Colder Weather” with the Zac brown band at 8 p.m. Friday at etess Arena. tickets are reportedly sold out, but where there’s a will, there’s a reseller to be found.

2. Austin City Nights

Country music isn’t just for headliners. Head to Hard rock Café on thursday for Country m usic thursdays for a more intimate venue. this week, Austin City Nights, a modern country cover band, is shaking things up. Get there for live tunes and a

cocktail – we like the Southern rock, made with Jack Daniel’s, Southern Comfort, Chambord raspberry Liqueur and Smirnoff mixed with sweet & sour and topped with Sprite. party on.

3. Brunch

Council Oak Steaks & Seafood is renowned for exquisite fine dining, an outstanding wine list, and deliciousness like a m aine Lobster pot and Japanese Kobe beef. but it’s also got a spectacular Sunday brunch. Get there for a truly elevated start to your day with a carefully curated menu of dishes including their 28-day aged sirloin and raw bar.

4. Euphoria

For an unforgettable, and unique, night of entertainment, check out the euphoria variety show at Sound

Waves. From high energy dance numbers to soulful musical performances, the thrilling show is perfect for anyone looking to escape reality and be transported to a world of excitement. And who isn’t?

5. Sushi

Is a visit to Hard rock without visiting Kuro a visit at all? With executive Sushi Chef Shingo Inoue at the helm, Kuro is a not-to-be-missed culinary delight. And while everything on the menu is to die for, we recommend the tasting menu for two to try a bit of everything including crispy b russels with honey soy and pear chive salsa, Kuro edamame, robata sampler, a

selection of rolled sushi, and Wagyu b eef tacos—all before a Chocolate Hazelnut bar for dessert.

Danielle's been a writer and storyteller for the past fifteen years—her work has appeared everywhere from Philadelphia Style Magazine and The Press of Atlantic City to Cape May Magazine and The WC Press in West Chester. Nationally, her short stories have been published in Typehouse Magazine and Scary Mommy. She lives in South Jersey with her husband and two children.

S po n so red by :

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17th

2PM-8PM

Danny

JUST

Dozens of imported beers, craft beer,

VIP reserved seating tables for eight include a poster and a T-shirt for $100 donation.

Lo d ge #2 1 89 500 Bethel Road, Somers Point, NJ 08244

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.TONYMART.COM.

and the VFW.

DESIGN BY ©PORTOGRAFIX

Proceeds to benefit: HEART OF SURFING, TONY MART CARES, NO ADMISSION CHARGE! FREE PARKING! FREE CONCERT!

Fall casino headliner roster includes a mobster, drag queens and a movie star

ings is definitely merited.

b elow (in chronological order) are nine noteworthy engagements scheduled for local gambling dens as 2023 heads toward its expiration date:

Michael Franzese (Sept. 23; Casears Atlantic City).

scam that earned him and his associates hundreds of millions of dollars.

By Chuck Darrow

Icould swear on the proverbial stack of b ibles that the first day of summer occurred about a week-and-a-half ago, but the reality is autumn is barreling towards us at warp speed. As such, a look at some highlights of the upcoming season’s Atlantic City casino book-

It’s an absolute lock that Atlantic City has never seen a headliner quite like Franzese (although there probably have been plenty like him in showroom audiences). t hat’s because the 73-year-old New York native spent decades as a major figure in the notorious Colombo mob family for whom he engineered, among other things, a gasoline-tax

but, in the 1990s, after serving a federal sentence for his role in the gas-tax swindle, Franzese renounced his criminal ways and today is an entrepreneur, big-time Youtube star and a public speaker who enthralls audiences with his first-person tales and insights about organized crime. tailoring his presentation to the gig, he’ll be speaking about the roles AyCee and philadelphia have played in the annals of gangsterdom.

Dire Straits Legacy Tour (Sept. 30; Golden Nugget Atlantic City).

Not just another “tribute band,” Dire Straits Legacy is comprised

“The best coffee I’ve ever tasted” …says just about everyone.

of musicians who, at one point or another, performed and/or recorded with the b ritish band whose signatures include “Sultans of Swing,” “ m oney For Nothing” and “Walk of Life.”

Fans of classic “prog rock” should be advised that among those in the band are brass man m el Collins (King Crimson) and trevor Horn (Yes), who’s playing bass on the tour.

RuPaul’s Drag Race—Night Of the Living Dead (Oct. 6; Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City).

Fans of the groundbreaking t V competition series may be disappointed that the show’s nominal star won’t be in attendance, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be plenty of the naughty, bawdy and gaudy gender-bending fun that has made “Drag race” so popular. that the program has a Halloween theme promises even more fun.

Black Turtle Coffee's subscription service is now available for the convenience of having fresh, high-quality coffee delivered right to your door.

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Dogstar (Oct. 8; Hard Rock). there are an incalculable number of people who want to be movie stars. And, it seems, there are a similar amount of movie stars who want to be rock stars. Case in point: Keanu reeves (“ the matrix”) who, when he wasn’t making the big-screen scene, played bass in Dogstar, an L.A.-based alt-rock band which he co-founded in the 1990s. the trio’s local gig is part of its revival after calling it quits in 2002. Also on tap is an album, “ b etween the power Lines and palm trees,” which is due out next month.

Foreigner (Oct. 27 and 28; Hard Rock.

Normally, a casino date by the 1970s-and-‘80s arena-rock titans wouldn’t merit inclusion in this list given that they have been regulars on the gaming-hall circuit for years. but (if the billing is to be believed), the Hard rock shows are part of what has been dubbed the “Feels Like the Last time Final tour.”

Randy Rainbow (Oct. 27; Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City).

Shoobie Shake® milkshakes are shaking up the game! A milkshake topped with a big slice of cheesecake? A magical cloud of cotton candy? Oreos, M&M’s, or Nerds pressed into the side of the glass? Yes, indeed. Our Shoobie Shake® milkshakes are truly works of art, and you probably need one.

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Revere

Granted, the brilliant song parodist may not be a particular favorite of mAGA World (check out any of his Donald trump-eviscerating tunes on Youtube for confirmation), but there’s no denying rainbow is extraordinarily talented and exactly the kind of not-the-same-old-same-old type of headliner of which Atlantic City needs more.

Johnny Mathis (Oct. 28; Caesars).

September 14, 2023 56

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crooner is now in his eighth (yes, eighth!) decade as an entertainer. And by all accounts, he’s still got it. And those are just two reasons why this gig should not be missed by any fan of classic American pop music. You want another? Fine; how often do you get to share a physical space with a show business immortal?

Sebastian Maniscalco (Nov. 9-11/16-18; Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa).

the Chicago-born standup comic’s star may not be burning quite as brightly as it did a few years ago (for instance, his movie, “About my Father,” in which he co-starred with robert De Niro—it was released last winter--was a major bust). b ut he obviously still has enough currency to head back to the b ig b for yet another 10-show run.

Chicago & Friends (Nov. 17 and 18; Ocean Casino Resort).

the pioneering jazz-rock outfit Chicago is another act that’s been depositing casino paychecks for many years, but their two-night Ocean engagement comes with a cool twist: It’s a celebration of the 55th anniversary of the band’s debut Lp, and to mark the festivities, the horn-heavy unit will not only perform, but will have a bunch of their songs delivered by a diverse roster of artists including guitar god Steve Vai, popster robin thicke, “American Idol” alum Chris Daughtry and the a capella quintet Voiceplay.

Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.

Jade Starling and Pretty Poison perform at ACX1 Studios opening Thursday

they performed at the long-sinceclosed red’s nightclub in margate a long time ago and have been a fan and following her career eversince.

it's so much easier to have your music available the day it drops.”

Tune In, Turn On

By Doug Deutsch

We first discovered Jade Starling and her band pretty poison when

“ t he dance music scene has certainly changed and evolved over the years,” said Starling in a recent interview. “With the addition of social media, it's been a lot easier to stay connected with DJs and fans when we release new music. With streaming platforms such as Spotify

Speaking of new music, Starling and pretty poison – which includes her longtime collaborator and cellist/ keyboardist Whey Cooler – will drop the video for their hot new dance track, “ place in the Sun” (billed as Jade Starling and pretty poison featuring Lee Dagger) Friday, Sept. 15 on tazmania records (the single was released Aug. 25).

“I'm so blessed to have an amazing songwriting partner. Whey Cooler is one of the best in the business,” adds Starling.

“ this feel-good anthem brings to mind the fact we all need to get away and take a break from the stress of our jobs and everyday life and escape to an exotic location in the sun,” says the philadelphia-based Starling, who also performs thursday night, Sept. 14, at the launch of ACX1 Studios on the pier at Caesars Casino Hotel. Visit www.acxstudios.com for tickets and additional information.

“‘ place in the Sun’ is available on all streaming platforms,” Starling adds. “We have also been hard at work in our studio writing and producing the new album to be released in 2024.

“(With) so much amazing material we are trying to choose the songs that will make the final cut and finish ones we are currently working on. I think this album will be the best collection of songs that we have ever released at one time. Album title and release date tbA.”

b ack in the day, Starling and pretty poison had a rock-oriented sound with songs such as the hauntingly cool, “No tears.” Her sound has morphed into more of a dance-pop hybrid first heard to great success in the group’s hit single, “Catch m e, I’m Falling,” still very popular after all these years, and which Jade and the band perform regularly in concert.

“Our set list varies according to the time allotted for our performance on each show,” says Starling. “We’ve been doing many multi-act freestyle shows over the years that only allow 15–20-minute sets, but our normal show is 45 minutes to one hour. We normally start off with classic covers and crowd pleasers like ‘A. e .I.O.U.,’ ‘If You Leave me Now’, ‘Yo No Se’ and of course our classic hits ‘Nightime,’ ‘When I Look into Your eyes’ and (the aforementioned) ‘Catch m e, I'm Falling’.”

“I've been doing a lot of oldschool shout-outs that really get

the crowd going to such classics as ‘Jump Around’ and ‘Up in Here.’ And of course, we include our new hits, ‘Fired Up,’ ‘So Alive,’ ‘Crazy’ (classic hit by Seal), and our new hit ‘ place in the Sun.’ It's a very high-energy, fast-moving set with medleys and lots of audience participation. We have a video playing behind us that adds to the excitement of a total audio-visual experience.”

t he future continues to look bright for Starling and pretty poison.

“We are currently doing tour dates with well-known top international DJ and producer markus Schultz in support of his new album, " the rabbit Hole Circus," said Starling. “We had a blast collaborating on new music with markus. He recently did a mind-blowing remix of "Catch me, I'm Falling" that we have been performing in his shows. We are planning to release it sometime next year. 2024 promises to be one of the greatest years of our musical careers.”

m ore on pretty poison at www. prettypoisonmusic.com.

Get The Led Out at Hard Rock: Classic rock continues to resonate greatly with the concert-going baby boomer market. Get the Led Out, also from philadelphia, is one of the most popular and successful Led Zeppelin tributes around. Dubbed “ the American Led Zeppelin,” GtLO return to perform at the Hard rock Casino in Atlantic City Friday, Sept. 15 (show is sold out). they’re fronted by paul Sinclair (vocals, harmonica) and paul Hammond (guitars, mandolin, theremin).

“Led Zeppelin are sort of the classical composers of the rock era," said Sinclair in an interview. "I believe that one hundred years from now, they will be looked on as the bach or beethoven of our time. As cliché as it sounds, their music is timeless." Info: www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity. com; www.gtlorocks.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.

Celebrate California Wine Month this September

By David Setley

Nineteen years ago, the California wine industry declared September as “California Wine m onth.” As of 2021, the United States ranks #4 in wine production, with Italy, France, and Spain holding the top three spots (Forbes m agazine). California is responsible for 81% of wine produced in the US, which accounts for approximately 7.5% of the world’s wine (Wine Institute, 2022). to put that into some perspective, the Golden State produces nearly as much wine as Argentina and Germany combined! With so much success, allow me to share some of the most prominent California wine names from the years.

Father Junipero Serra, a Francis-

can priest from the 18th century, is considered the father of California wine. After a first mission to California in the late 1760s, Father Serra established 9 missions over the coming years in which he planted vineyards throughout the state. the grapes he planted, known as mission grapes, were the dominant grapes grown in California until well into the 1800s. then, in 1851, a Hungarian-born scientist and agriculturalist by the name of Agoston Haraszthy made his way to the state in search of relief from asthma. He settled in San Francisco, where he planted a farm and vines. A few years later, in 1857, Agoston purchased land in Sonoma, planted vines, and named it buena Vista. buena Vista was among the first commercially operated wineries in the state and is still in operation. Although he ultimately declared bankruptcy and sold his winery, Agoston’s work in vineyard agriculture earned him the title of the father of modern viticulture in California.

many others have earned notoriety for their role in California wine over the years, going back to the late

Lindy Hops

1800s. paul m asson, an innovative winemaker from France whose name is still known today, was invited to the Old Almadén Winery in California in 1878. In 1861, Charles Krug, who had previously worked with Agoston Haraszthy, partnered with John patchett at a Napa vineyard in St. Helena. In 1879, Gustave Niebaum founded the Inglenook Winery in Napa County, which became our nation’s first bordeaux-style winery. their wines became world-famous

and won gold medals at the World’s Fair of paris in 1889. the winery was purchased in 1975 by a famous Hollywood producer who renamed the winery with his family name: Coppola. In 1938, the russian-born winemaker, André tchelistcheff, was hired at the b eaulieu Vineyards (bV). He is credited with bringing modern viticultural techniques to the California wine industry. In 1965, another name most recognize — robert m ondavi — left his family’s winery to start the

winery bearing his name in Oakville, California.

Despite the steadily increasing notoriety of California wines, the industry nearly ended in 1920 due to prohibition, when wine production dropped by 94% in the US. Although some wineries managed to stay in business during the 13 years of prohibition by producing wine for religious or medicinal purposes, it took over 50 years for the industry to truly get back on its feet. On may 24, 1976, the wine world was turned on its head at an event that later took on the name: the Judgement of paris. At a headto-head blind tasting in paris, nine French judges, representing the finest wine experts in the country, chose California wines (cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay) over French wines. the wine world was forever changed that day, and California wines earned a seat at the world’s table.

today, California has 4,800 bonded wineries and grows over 100 grape varietals on 621,000 acres of vineyards. there are an infinite number of recommendations I could give, but I will limit it to a few favorites. Let’s start with cabernet sauvignon, the red that put California on the wine map. two exceptional cabs, both of which are reasonably priced, are the 2020 Duckhorn Decoy and the 2021 Daou paso robles Cabernet Sauvignon. each wine expresses the bold flavors that have made cabernet sauvignon California’s #1 varietal. Chardonnay, the white varietal made famous by the Judgement of paris, continues to be the top white wine in California. the 2021 raeburn and 2021 Au b on Climate are classic chards that I would highly recommend.

If you’re looking to stray from cabs or chards, the two varietals that California does better than anywhere in the world (in my opinion) are petit sirah and zinfandel. t he 2020 J. Lohr tower road petit Sirah is my favorite. the wine features aroma of cranberries and red fruit with notes of wildflowers. t he bold flavor of red raspberries and blueberries has a long-concentrated finish that is sure to please those who enjoy great

California reds. Or, reach for the 2019 St. Francis Old Vines Zinfandel. It has earned a 90-point rating from Wine Spectator and features juicy raspberry and blackberry fruit flavors balanced with spicy notes of cinnamon and black pepper. Delicious.

Lastly, California is also becoming wellknown for its blends. For a white blend worthy of your attention, try the 2022 pine ridge Chenin blanc and Viognier blend. Alternatively, grab a bottle of the 2020 Ancient peaks renegade, a wonderful red blend of syrah, petit verdot, and malbec. this wine was a big hit at a recent wine tasting event! raise a glass to the great state of California and its wine success this month. As always, feel free to contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com. 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.

FULL SERVICE SHOP

Local parks to visit this autumn

By Julia Train

September and October are known as “Locals’ Summer” at the shore. Although the weather is not as warm as July or August, many locals like to enjoy the outdoors this season. In Atlantic and Cape may counties, there are plenty of state parks to visit. Here are ten you need to check out!

Estell Manor Park

Located right on route 50, the park has pavilions for picnics. It also has hiking trails, two playgrounds, a beach volleyball court, a softball field and a soccer field. In the north end, there are mountain bike trails, a campsite, and river access for a boat or kayak.

estell manor park also has an elevated wooden trail, called the Swamp trail boardwalk, that is accessible to visitors in wheelchairs.

Wharton State Forest

right in the center of the pinelands National reserve, Wharton State Forest offers scenic hiking trails

along with activities like canoeing/ kayaking, exploring batsto Village, swimming, picnicking, fishing, bicycling, bird watching, camping, and more!

Lake Lenape Park

In m ays Landing, there are two sides of Lake Lenape’s park — east and west. both sides offer different activities with a scenic view of the lake. On the east side is the cove, lighthouse, playground and pickleball courts. On the west side, there are trails for biking and hiking, campsites, gazebos, playgrounds and picnic tables. Visitors can also fish, boat and hunt.

Birch Grove Park

this Northfield park features activities throughout all seasons. In the fall, relax by the ponds and birdwatch. According to njaudubon.org, look out for ruddy Ducks, Hooded m ergansers, r ing-necked Ducks, Double-crested Cormorants and pied-billed Grebes. If you look up, you may see Cooper’s Hawk and Osprey pass overhead. Spotted and Solitary Sandpipers can be found along the pond edges.

Camping and kids programs continue into the fall, including special Halloween activities.

Kennedy Park

this Somers point park is open from sunrise to sunset and is the perfect place for a photo-op with the egg Harbor bay. the park has picnic areas, restrooms, benches and a gazebo. Visitors can also fish and launch their boats from the park.

Tony Canale Park

this egg Harbor township park offers a plethora of activities, such as baseball/softball fields, soccer fields, volleyball courts, tennis courts, playground area and amphitheater. there are paved trails around the park.

Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve

Also in egg Harbor township, the nature reserve is one large loop trail around a lake. Smaller trails diverge off of the main loop, creating a web of trails in the forest surrounding the body of water. the reserve is a great place to bike, jog or walk dogs. the lake could also be a fun place to paddleboard. there also are several abandoned concrete pipes located at the nature reserve. Covered with colorful graffiti, these structures now make for a great place to hold a photo shoot.

Cape May Point State Park

the 244-acre state park located in Lower township, is a short bike ride from historic Cape may. best known for the Cape may Lighthouse, it features freshwater meadows, ponds, forests, dunes and a beach.

Corson's Inlet State Park

According to nj.gov, “Corson's Inlet State park was established in 1969 to help protect and preserve one of the last undeveloped tracts of land along the state's oceanfront.” As an undeveloped beachfront, it features sand dunes and marine estuaries.

enjoy hiking, fishing, crabbing, boating and sunbathing. After Sept. 15, bring your dog with you!

Atlantic County Park at Weymouth Furnace

Located on Weymouth road, the almost 11-acre park was originally the site of an iron furnace and paper mill in the 1800s. Stop by for a picnic, kayak or canoe into the Great egg Harbor river, or just enjoy the historical site.

Fall is the perfect time to visit parks with friends and family since it’s not too chilly and not too hot. Do you have a favorite? Let us know!

A couple and their two dogs pose for a photo at the Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve.

Is insurance preventing you from retiring?

insurance. b ut this may not have to be the case.

By Eric Reich

It is one of the most discussed reasons people refuse to retire before age 65. there are plenty of reasons someone may not retire including a lack of income, the fear of running out of money, the loss of identity, boredom, and no longer having a sense of purpose. Surprisingly, one of the biggest ones we encounter is health insurance. As we age, the presence of health insurance becomes just as much a necessity as income. Some view it as a higher priority, allowing insurance to dictate if/when they can retire.

You can start collecting social security as young as age 62 or as late as age 70. However, you can’t go on m edicare until age 65. the gap between age 62 and 65 forces a lot of pre-retirees to postpone retirement until they can go on medicare to make sure they have adequate health

On march 23, 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was enacted ensuring that all Americans were given the right to health insurance. this new law came with much criticism and confusion. A lot of the criticism of the ACA was due to the higher premiums, low levels of coverage, preexisting conditions, increase in taxes, and limited enrollment. thirteen years later, we have a much better understanding of the ACA and how it can potentially benefit all of us including those under the age of 65.

When we mention the ACA as an option to those who want to retire by age 65, the first reaction is not a positive one. there is an assumption that the insurance coverage is terrible and expensive. that is untrue. the ACA has matured quite nicely since its inception and gives you control over how much coverage you want and need. the website https://www. nj.gov/getcoverednj will provide you a comprehensive and easy to understand list of coverage options. the providers are listed so that you can make sure your doctor is in the networks. the plans are administered through companies you know such

as Horizon b lue Cross b lue Shield and AmeriHealth. the best part is you don’t need a phD to comprehend the offerings. Shocking, I know.

t he cost of health insurance through the ACA, however, does cause real confusion. this is another big deterrent for retiring before 65 with no health care through your employer or your spouse’s employer. the monthly cost to you the enrollee is based on your income for that year. Here is the good news. When you retire you may have little to no earned income. For clients who retire before 65 most of the money they live off first could be money in their checking/savings accounts or non-I r A money. these are their most liquid assets. If this is the case, when applying for health insurance, your low income could cause your premiums to be much lower than you anticipated. Your health insurance through the ACA can be at a significantly reduced cost or maybe even free. In retirement, you can determine your sources of income. that type of flexibility can help.

the enrollment process is simple. If you are planning to retire that is considered a “life event” and qualifies you to apply and enroll at the time of retirement.

this is not an endorsement for the ACA but a way to provide options and clarity on a topic that can be uncomfortably confusing. It is bothersome to see people grind out their last few years of work to hit that magic number of 65. Had they known they had this option maybe they would have enjoyed a few more years in retirement.

If you are considering retirement before age 65 but won’t due to health insurance, we encourage you to investigate this option. the website, mentioned above, for NJ residents

is easy to navigate and understand. We have seen this method used as an effective tool to retire earlier than previously anticipated. We are not health insurance experts but have seen the health insurance marketplace mature nicely, and you could potentially benefit from it if you plan to retire early.

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.

Possible Bear Sighting in Mays Landing

time of publication.

By Julia Train

On Sept. 4, a Facebook user posted on the “What’s Going On in m ays Landing?” about a bear sighting by their house.

the post read, “ be Ar SIGHtING!

I’m posting on behalf of my neighbor who I don’t believe has Facebook. About 20 minutes ago on Smith and malaga rd, they spotted a black bear. It ran into the woods as the car startled it so just an FYI to everyone to watch their kids and pets!”

the m alaga and Smith intersection, a wooded area, is located right outside of buena township.

Shore Local Newsmagazine reached out to m oon DiGuglielmo, who made the Facebook post, for more information. However, DiGuglielmo did not respond before the

Shore Local also asked m unicipal Animal Control and m iscellaneous Services if they have received any recent reports of black bears in m ays Landing. Animal Control explained that they had not received a report of this bear sighting.

the comments were flooded by a mixture of reactions. Some said to leave it be, while others were worried about their pets or kids. there were also a few comments sprinkled in from people who have lived in areas with bears, sharing their stories and giving advice:

“

the bear won't go after any of your pets. t hey eat more berries and such or would rather raid your garbage or bird feeders. I lived for years in Upstate NY. And saw black bears all the time. the only time to be very concerned is if you get between a m omma bear and her cubs,” said Facebook user, Joan Hoge. “If you keep your bird feeders up high enough so they can't get to them and

your garbage is secured and or don't feed them at all, it will move on.”

“Oh boy. We moved here 3 years ago from pocono’s. We were very used to bears. #1 do not leave food including bird suet out. #watch trash. We would put trash out very early in the morning first thing they go for. that being said, I've been stared at by a bear. they turn around and run away but it’s always scary,” said Diane Cifuni.

Native to New Jersey, American

black bears have historically been spotted in each of New Jersey’s counties. While most black bears are found in North Jersey, they have been expanding their range southward. there has been only one human fatality from a bear attack in New Jersey’s history; In 2014, a rutgers University student in passaic County photographed a black bear before being attacked by it.

According to the National park Service (N pS), here’s a few tips on

THURSDAY, SEPT. 21st

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TOPIC: PROSTATE CANCER

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what to do if you see a bear.

Stay put, even if the bear comes closer. According to N p S, “It may come closer or stand on its hind legs to get a better look or smell. A standing bear is usually curious, not threatening.”

talk calmly to the bear to identify yourself as human and not prey.

Do not make any loud noises, run or make any sudden movements.

N pS said, “If the bear is standing still, move away slowly and sideways, which allows you to keep an eye on the bear and avoid tripping. m oving sideways is also nonthreatening to bears.”

Do not run or climb a tree. bears can run as fast as a horse and climb. Leave the area or take a detour. If this is impossible, wait until the bear moves away. Always leave the bear an escape route.

there are quite a few tips on the website, so make sure to view the full list here: https://www. nps.gov/subjects/bears/ safety.htm. It's important to be prepared.

According to New Jersey’s Department of environmental protection, never feed a black bear! besides being dangerous, it is also illegal and has a $1,000 penalty.

If you see a black bear, report it to New Jersey’s Department of environmental protection’s 24-hour, toll-free hotline at 1-877-WArN D ep (1-877-927-6337). to view data on all reported black bear sightings in New Jersey in 2023, see their website: https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/bears/ activity-reports/.

Julia is a student at Rider University, majoring in multiplatform journalism with a minor in social media strategies. At school, she writes and copy edits for The Rider News and is the News Director for the radio station, producing news updates. She’ll be graduating in the spring. Connect with her on Instagram @ juliatrain

Preserve your summer garden with pressed flower pumpkins and other crafts

Let It Grow

By Tammy Thornton

While we enjoy these lingering beautiful days of September, we know that our warm weather won’t last forever. though some of you can’t wait for cooler days, gardeners know that summer flowers will fade along with the waning sun. However, you can preserve your summer garden, at least in part, by drying and pressing flowers and foliage that can be used to make fun and memorable crafts.

You may have heard of great aunts or grandmothers keeping cherished flowers from the bouquet of a sweetheart between the pages of their favorite novels. preserving flowers in weighed down books is a time-honored method that actually

works very well. though this way of pressing flowers is very simple, it takes two to four weeks. Your wait will be rewarded with dried flat flowers with good color retention. to press flowers in this way, place your flowers in a single layer between a folded piece of parchment paper. Leave some space in between each flower or leaf. Close the book carefully and weigh it down with more big books or a heavy weight. Check your flowers in two weeks. If they are not fully dried, wait another one to two weeks.

If you are an impatient, impulsive gardener or crafter (like me), you might want to try a quicker method. Ironing flowers between parchment paper is a fast way to press flowers. b ut be sure to add an extra layer of parchment paper or white white copy paper on the outside of the parchment paper, so it doesn’t bleed through. Otherwise, your significant other might not have romantic thoughts about your special flowers when the “colorful iron” ruins their clothing. b efore starting, turn off

the steam setting on your iron and use a light touch. Keep the iron at a low setting and check your flowers frequently so you don’t overdo it by singeing them or turning them brown. A few seconds of pressing with the iron should be sufficient. Check your flowers in between each pass of the iron to see if they are completely dry.

m icrowaves can also be used to press flowers quickly. place them between paper as in the other methods and weigh them down with a heavy item that is microwave-safe, such as a heavy bowl or plate. Zap the flowers in short intervals, checking them each after each round. You can also buy a press made specifically for microwaves.

In each of these methods, the goal is to extract moisture from the flowers efficiently. If you do not fully dry out the flowers, they can turn moldy. Choose flowers that are approximately the same thickness and blot them with a paper towel before starting, to remove any surface moisture. Flowers that work best have fairly “flat faces” such as pansies, impatiens, and violets. thicker flowers can also work but you may need to cut them apart

and separate the petals. Fern leaves or herbs such as parsley and dill make interesting pressed plants.

Once you have fully dried and pressed your plants and flowers, you will be ready for the fun part. Let your creativity flow. You can glue them on paper to make a greeting card or bookmark for your friend. Create fun lights by using m od podge or watered-down glue to decoupage your pressed flowers to the outside of recycled jars. Add tea lights and you will have unique lighting to line your dining room table. For a timely seasonal idea, decoupage them to white pumpkins for a fun fall decoration. Save some of your dried flowers to decorate Christmas tree ornaments in winter or easter eggs in the spring. If you have used edible flowers, decorate cakes and cupcakes with your creations. You can also make an arrangement between two pieces of glass inside a picture frame for a picture perfect way to show off your garden throughout the year.

If you’ve been inspired to create memories from your garden, we would love to hear from you. What’s your favorite technique of drying or pressing flowers? Send pictures of your clever creations or questions and comments to: shorelocalgardener@gmail.com.

Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.

Wind Turbines

Solo exhibition by artist Larry Woulfe on display in Atlantic City through November 15

By Krystle J Bailey

“He really is a creative catalyst,” shares Union Hall Arts

owner Zach Katzen about Ocean City-based artist Larry Woulfe.

While Larry himself is local to the Jersey Shore, his artistic influence is tied to a French style from the late 19th - early 20th century known as Fauvism. A term that means “wild beasts,” Fauvism values individual expression and the artist’s ability to use his or her intuition over academic theory.

“It’s kind of deceptive because he knows exactly what he’s doing,” explains Jim Dessicino of Union Hall. “He’s acutely aware of who his influences are. His color palette, the way he works, and his intuitive response to the subject matter are what he’s paying attention to. It feels fresh and

new, but if you’re familiar with art history, it’s uncannily right where those things were 100-plus years ago”

Larry’s instinctual and versatile artistic expression was brought to light one m onday evening when he sat cross-legged on the floor during a life drawing class at Union Hall Arts in Atlantic City. the 60-year-old artist,

who returned to his roots in Atlantic County five years ago, carries with him a toolbox of art supplies and a willingness to approach each new subject with a fresh set of eyes. Since 2022, Larry has shown up every monday to create with a group of artists gathered around a live model, producing one breathtaking piece after another.

“It’s art therapy for me,” he explains. “It gets me out, and I connect with people while I’m drawing people. It brings out the humanity in me and connects me.”

this month, Union Hall announced its first-ever solo exhibition featuring a collection of Larry’s work. each of the 54 pieces in the show was created within a two-hour window during the weekly m onday night Life Drawing sessions, which Larry dubbed “Serious m ondays.”

each piece included in the exhibition was custom framed by Larry, who has forged a career as a conservation picture framer and works full-time at Salt Works Studios in Ocean City. prior to returning to South Jersey, Woulfe was the owner of a custom framing company in pennsylvania for 26 years. Using a collection of scrap material, old frames, and his love for hands-on carpentry, each piece is as uniquely mounted as it is created.

“I just fit the frame to the art,” explains Woulfe when asked about

his creative process. “I draw and paint on cardboard boxes and file folders, whatever I have. When I look at the model, I don't think about it. I just kind of do it; I just respond to it.”

With a formal education from tyler School of Art and Architecture at temple University, Woulfe attributes his willingness to color outside the proverbial lines to his Holy Spirit High School art teacher, Sister Joyce, who encouraged him to try new ideas as a young artist.

“One of the things that makes Larry’s work so great to me is his ability to strip away all the structure and confines of traditional art school teachings and really get back in touch with his childlike wonder,” explains Katzen.

Artist Val Feo, a collector of Woulfe’s work, says, “I remain in awe of Larry, his process, and his work.”

“When certain people paint, you tend to recognize their art,” Woulfe told Shore Local in an interview. “I can recognize my own stuff, but it’s all different because I make one piece at a time. there’s no continuity; I approach the night as I go.”

Discover Larry Woulfe’s work at Union Hall Arts next to tony’s baltimore Grill in Atlantic City. “Serious m ondays” will be on display and available for purchase until November 15. Visit Larry on Instagram @ LarryWoulfe.

"Your Health, My Passion"

with Raymond Tyler

According to the calendar, I have not been a child for about 40 years, but if you ask my friends I get very childish when my sports teams don’t win.

When I was a child and a young adult, my father and I would bond over ice cream. He had to sneak and take me out for ice cream without my mother knowing.

m y mom, whom I affectionately call a “savings nazi,” would always shoot down ice cream and fast-food burgers with, “we’ve got that at home.” my father, on the other hand, saw stopping by a summer ice-cream stand as an inexpensive way to bond with his oldest son.

For just a little bit of money, Dad

was a hero.

Ice-cream stands provided more flavors than you could get at the supermarket (still do). And let’s be honest; when you are 8 years old, ice cream tastes better from an icecream stand, even if it’s always vanilla. Ice cream with Dad tasted even better because we’d sit in the parking lot or go out to Captain Starn’s or sit on the boardwalk and talk.

I am writing this column to suggest taking your son, daughter, or the whole family to main event Custard, Soft and Hard Ice Cream, located at 820 N. main St. in pleasantville for ice cream.

Ice cream is still a wonderful way to surprise someone you love. I often see happy couples as I am placing my order. No one bickers over ice cream.

At main event, the staff is always friendly and keeps the stand clean. the choices still out-rank what you will find in a supermarket. main event offers an extensive variety of icecream flavors, water ice, custard and several franchise specific choices like Spider- man.

Don’t tell my doctor but I was

able to get a scoop of orange sherbet, a scoop of peach and a scoop of strawberry cheesecake for about $5. people with normal appetites can get a scoop in a cup or cone for just under $5 before tax (extra special cones and jimmies/sprinkles cost extra).

the ice cream is not only delicious, but it’s great from the freezer the

next day, even though I can’t devour three whole scoops of main event ice cream at one time.

the bad news is that come Oct.15, m ain event will be closing for the 2023 season. the good news is that until then, I can take my niece there and bond with her: me with my sherbet and she with her Spongebob ice cream.

the other day for less than $20, I was able to get ice cream for my whole family (three of us.) my mother and my brother love main event’s banana ice cream. Once in a while I will go alone and order a single scoop… and wish I could still bond with my dad over a scoop of ice cream before the end of another summer.

main event Custard, Soft and Hard Ice Cream is open from 1 to 9 p.m. Sunday-t hursday, and 1 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It’s located at 820 N. main St. in pleasantville.

You can connect with Raymond Tyler via Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Instagram @RaymondTyler2018.

The Light

5 tips to effectively stage your home this fall

as well-lit rooms will help the space look larger and more inviting.

Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

There are so many enjoyable fall activities, from carving pumpkins to lounging around the bonfire.

Autumn can also be a great time to enter the housing market. While there may not be as many interested parties as there are during spring and summer, you may face less competition selling your home and motivated buyers may want to move into a new home before the holidays.

However, before potential buyers visit your home, it can be beneficial to stage your house with fall-inspired ideas to help it stand out.

Make Use of Light

As fall progresses and days grow shorter, your home may lack natural light. So make sure to provide plenty of additional light around your home

Go room to room and scope out any shadowy areas that could benefit from a lighting upgrade. You can leave your lights on timers throughout your home so they shut off after the showing, but make sure to regularly check your lamps and light fixtures and replace any burned-out bulbs.

If you are looking to improve the light in certain rooms, you might also consider painting the walls. Neutral paint colors such as white and gray are excellent options that reflect light well.

Don't forget to leave the exterior lights on to help guests get a better look at your home and yard if they are there looking after dark. this will also allow warm, welcoming lights to greet guests, which will help to boost your curb appeal.

Turn the Heat On

It is imperative to keep your home as comfortable as possible during a showing, especially on those frigid fall days. If you are getting ready for a showing of your home, try to keep your home’s temperature between 70 and 73 degrees. If it is too hot, the potential buyers may become sweaty

and distracted. It your home is too cold they may worry that your heating system does not work well.

Your home’s showing temperature matters. It could make or break your sale.

Emphasize Being Cozy

Fall is a season in which comfort is of utmost importance. Use this to your advantage and accentuate your couch or armchairs with accent pillows and throws in an autumn color palette.

You can also place soft rugs around your home if it has hard tile or wood floors. If you have a fireplace, stack some wood near it to help potential buyers imagine themselves warming up next to the fire on a cool fall day. m ake sure to turn on your gas or electric fireplace before the showing to emphasize that homey feel.

Keep Up the Curb Appeal

Summer might be over, but there is still plenty you can do to make your outdoor space look more appealing. Here are a few suggestions to boost your curb appeal.

● Keep up with raking leaves

● patch brown spots in your lawn

● plant fall-friendly flowers like colorful mums and pansies in yellow, orange and purple

● Clean the gutters

● trim back plants and bushes

● Add a new doormat

If you want to decorate the outside of your home, a fresh pumpkin or two on your front porch can feel homey and add a pop of color. However, you must remain diligent in making sure the gourd doesn't start to show signs

of rotting, which is a major turnoff to potential buyers. Keep it fresh, clean and appealing.

Keep Holiday Decorating to a Minimum

While you may enjoy decorating for Halloween or thanksgiving, it is better to keep most of your decorations in storage when selling your home.

An overabundance of seasonal decor can be distracting, and some items may even offend a potential homebuyer. Instead, keep the decorating to a simple, fall theme like an autumn-inspired wreath or a fall color palette.

pumpkin spice and everything nice. Happy fall to everyone!

For real estate information and advice, contact elisa Jo eagan, the “ real e state Godmother,” at 609703-0432. Learn more at www.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!"

SHORE FUNNY

Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field.

Why shouldn’t you write with a broken pencil? Because it’s pointless.

Why can’t your nose be 12 inches long? Because then it would be a foot.

Why did the Clydesdale give the pony a glass of water? Because he was a little horse.

What do you call fake spaghetti? An impasta.

Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one.

What do sea monsters eat? Fish and ships.

609-645-0500

THEME: OCEAN DWELLERS

ACROSS

1. Kind of wrap

6. pose a question

9. be sore

13. Ottoman title

14. Ornamental pond-dweller

15. Florida Key, e.g.

16. mr. t and friends

17. Knot-tying vow (2 words)

18. milan's La ____

19. *Walrus' cousin (2 words)

21. *Crustacean "on the barbie"

23. Finish line

24. Creole vegetable

25. He had

28. Gives a helping hand

30. tranquil

35. Frosts, as in cake

37. bear, in Latin

39. All the words in a language

40. "by ____, I think she's got it!"

41. Silver to Lone ranger

43. Chows down

44. mark twain to Samuel Langhorne Clemens

46. toupee spot

47. pestilence pest

48. Singer eilish

50. rub the wrong way

52. Yoda: "Do or do not. there is no ____"

53. *A type of whale or the color of many dolphins

55. Overnight lodging

57. *Inspiration for a certain pineapple dweller

60. *Inspiration for marvel's Doc Ock

64. South American juice flavor

65. bearded antelope

67. All thumbs

68. pineda of Journey

69. Stomach pain-causing acronym

70. Hundred, in Italian

71. Hammer part

72. Not stood

73. bar, legally

DOWN

1. r&r destinations

2. Angie thomas' "the ____ U Give"

3. Seaward

4. *Cetology object of study

5. thin layer

6. *Like green sea turtle and loggerhead sea turtle

7. Grass "carpet"

8. Newsstand, e.g.

9. Fungal spore sacs

10. *edible bivalve

11. S.O.S.

12. pilot's estimate, acr.

15. Netanyahu's country

20. Abomination

22. 9 to 5, e.g.

24. bone burial spot

25. muslim woman's headscarf

26. Cause for food recall

27. a.k.a. Lucifer

29. between stop and roll

31. *Coral polyps' structure

32. raise one's rank

33. potassium nitrate

34. Student's request for ChatGpt?

36. *#19 Across' earless cousin

38. Hostile to

42. Opposite of ecbatic

45. Smoke, sometimes

49. energy unit

51. Attract

54. Front of cuirass

56. religiously unaffiliated, pl.

57. Confident answer

58. Glazier's unit

59. baker's baker

60. Give a boot

61. Closely confined

62. plotting

63. "____! In the Name of Love"

64. Year off in school

66. Giannis' league

See Solution on Page

Gastrointestinal problems in dogs

By Heidi Clayton

At some point in every dog owner's life, you will be faced with your dog having an unpleasant bout of diarrhea. Frequently referred to as the “runs,” it can gross even the sturdiest of dog owners out. Depending on the cause, it could be absolutely nothing at all or quite serious. I always understand why it causes concern among dog owners.

t he most common causes of diarrhea are dietary indiscretions. A big one in my house is the constant consumption of acorns and leaves during the fall. While dogs' stomach acids are about three times as strong as our own, my dogs tend to have bouts of diarrhea when they overindulge in acorns and leaves. Other common causes are diet changes, food intolerances, parasites (such as roundworm, coccidia, or the very common giardia,) viruses (such as parvo or distemper,) bacterial infections, stress, or ingesting a foreign body.

m ost of the time, diarrhea will resolve itself. How you treat it and when to go to the vet varies from dog to dog. As gross as this is, when a client asks me if they should worry, I always ask what color is the diarrhea and what is the consistency. Are there small white rice-like objects in the stool? If so, your dog could have a parasite and that is a trip to the vet. Anything green, orange-tinted, or gray could mean trouble with the dog's liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. black tarry stool or black tarry stool with bright red blood could be a sign of internal bleeding. It could also be

a result of your dog straining to go. For me, bloody stool might not be an emergency vet visit depending on the amount of blood, but I usually do like to get them seen if it is persistently present.

I also tell everyone that you should always go to the vet if you are worried. even if the visit result is that your dog most likely got into

something like grass, sticks, or leaves, for some, knowing that there is no problem puts them at ease. I suggest a vet visit when, along with diarrhea, there are other symptoms like a fever, vomiting, pale gums, weakness, dehydration, or if your dog just seems off to you. I am much quicker to go to the vet with baby puppies or my old dogs than with the young to middle-aged ones who eat grass and leaves like they are goats.

If you choose to try home remedies first, I usually start with fasting my dogs for about 8 hours and then offer a small meal. I personally do not give my dogs boiled or bland chicken but opt for feeding them white rice with either fermented kefir, pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix!), or plain yogurt mixed in. I also keep pepcid

Original Strength tablets on hand, which do not require a vet’s prescription. pepcid, also known as Famotidine, should not be given with food but works best on an empty stomach. Along with pepcid, I have m etronidazole that my vet prescribed and will give if the diarrhea lasts longer than 12 hours.

Diarrhea is one of the unpleasant realities of dog ownership. Never panic if your dog has it and use the above checklist to determine if you should go to a vet.

If you have questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

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