SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | February 15, 2024

Free February 15, 2024

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

Winter Happenings Meet the new County Sheriff Underground Railroad Connection Longport Considers Beachfront Park Digital Beach Tags Becoming a Reality

SCAN TO READ ONLINE

Digital beach tags coming this summer to shore town

I

n a move to modernize beach access, Sea Isle City is launching digital beach tags for the upcoming summer, allowing beachgoers to purchase and display tags directly from their smartphones.

The initiative, announced by city officials, aims to provide a more convenient option for visitors, eliminating the need to carry traditional plastic tags that have been in place since the '70s.

The new digital tags can be bought and stored using a mobile app developed by My Beach Mobile. While physical tags will still be available, the digital option caters to the growing trend of using smartphones for various transactions.

The Sea Isle City Council is set to authorize the contract for the mobile app, which will also enable the purchase of physical tags, though they must be collected in person. The app, available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store, is expected to go live around April 1, with detailed information to be released by the city.

Chief Financial Officer Jennifer McIver highlighted the ease of pur-

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This digital transition comes as Sea Isle City also announced an increase in beach tag prices for the summer of 2024, with seasonal tags now at $30 and daily tags at $10. The revenue from beach tag sales, crucial for maintaining clean beaches, lifeguard employment, and beach replenishment projects, reached $1.3 million in the summer of 2023.

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Jersey Shore shakes off winter quiet: February now buzzing with events & excitement

I

From the Editor

t seems like not long ago, February at the Jersey Shore was filled with dreary days and a community quieted to a hush by the cold weather.

In contrast to the frenzy of summer in South Jersey, February is historically one of the slowest months of the year.

Times have certainly changed! The off season isn't quite what it used to be, as the community is buzzing with exciting events and happenings this winter.

From Ocean City’s newest Winter Warrior experience to Sea Isle’s Polar Bear Weekend and Atlantic City’s headliners, there is endless entertainment this February.

Super Bowl LVIII was one for the record books with the most-watched halftime show of all time. Casinos and sports bars were buzzing with activity as

the 49ers and Chiefs took to the big field.

Mardi Gras celebrations brought a splash of color to the streets of South Jersey as many indulged in sweets and treats before Lent.

PJ's Coffee in Linwood was brimming with festivities for Fat Tuesday on Feb. 13, with beignets, beads, and a live performance by the Budesa Brothers, who later entertained folks at Tennessee Beer Hall in Atlantic City.

Then, love filled the air as Valentine's Day events popped up across the county.

It has been an exciting winter around here and things are just heating up!

Aside from the obvious joy of a long weekend, President's Day offers a moment to reflect on the leadership and legacy of the figures who have shaped the course of American history. Read about Lincoln’s vital and vital role in American history on page 48.

February is also a time to honor and reflect on Black history, an integral part of the American narrative. The feature on page 14-15 about Harriet Tubman is an illustration of the rich and complex fabric of Black history that weaves through every part of our nation, including places closer to home than we may expect.

Issue 270

The Annual Run/Walk for Autism, part of the 23rd Annual Polar Bear Plunge Weekend in Sea Isle Learning about Harriet Tubman's life and her tireless work in Cape May County as a conductor of the Underground Railroad and a community member reminds us of the strength and resilience of those who fought for freedom and justice.

On page 50, read about the preservation of historical sites in neighboring counties related to Martin Luther King Jr. These sites are not just physical locations but beacons of hope and struggle that continue to inspire generations to strive for equality and to stand against injustice.

Their preservation is crucial for educating future generations about the sacrifices

made for civil rights and the ongoing journey toward equality.

Designated as American Heart Month, February is dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.

Dr. LaToya Roberts, a practicing physician in Somers Point, spotlights the importance of regular exercise, a balanced diet, and health screenings on page 16.

This focus on heart health is an important reminder of the need to take care of our physical well-being. The connection between our history, our celebrations, and our health is profound, as each aspect influences our capacity to enjoy life and contribute to our communities.

There is so much to enjoy in this edition of Shore Local Newsmagazine.

As you flip through these pages, please be sure to show love to our amazing and loyal advertisers. It's because of them that week after week we can deliver free copies of Shore Local all over South Jersey.

Thank you for reading!

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Baseball Performance Center is hitting it out of the park in EHT

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

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o-owners and entrepreneurs Mike Adams and Ed Charlton started their baseball training facility in a modest, 4,000-square-foot building in Pleasantville in 2017. It served them well until the business grew exponentially.

Their passion for the sport, and their unique, effective training process have propelled them to grow out of the original location to a totally renovated, state-of-the-art building, which is centrally located at 3092 English Creek Ave. in Egg Harbor Township.

Mike Adams, co-owner and director of pitching, has an impressive resume as a former MLB right-hand-

ed relief pitcher for several teams including the Philadelphia Phillies.

Before that the Holy Spirit High School graduate had an accomplished high school and college career, which included Division 1 Wagner College, where he was among its all-time leaders in strikeouts and innings pitched.

He also played professionally for the Rockland Boulders of the Can-Am League and is currently a scout for the Milwaukee Brewers.

Co-owner Ed Charlton, who is the hitting coordinator, was part of the St. Augustine Prep team that won the school’s first ever state championship. He was Press of Atlantic City Player of the Year in 2011, and First-Team All State 2011.

Charlton, also a scout for the Milwaukee Brewers, played Division 1 baseball at the New Jersey Institute of Technology where he won the New Jersey Collegiate Baseball Association Division 1 Rookie of the Year in 2012.

He was drafted in the 23rd Round by the Cincinnati Reds, and coached at Neumann University in Aston, Pa. Mike and Ed have assembled a great team to help their clients

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achieve their goals, starting with Jake Kinsell who is the pitching coordinator, along with Matt Roland who is the assistant hitting coordinator. Ryan Buccafurni is the head of physical therapy.

Peak Performance Sports Physical Therapy coexists with BPC and is a great complement. The athletes have access to superior professional training and physical therapy, are taught to maintain good conditioning with access to a well-equipped workout area.

Training athletes today is a yearround effort and requires a total commitment if the individual wants to perform to the best of their abilities. The goal is to encourage injury prevention through an arm care program, mobility, along with strength conditioning.

The business opened its EHT location in December. They cater to baseball players from 9 years of age through college. Currently, they have about 100 high school players in addition to 100 plus college players.

In addition, they have 30 pros associated with the facility.

They proudly boast that during the past four years their players have

totaled over $1 million in scholarships.

If you are serious about baseball, this is the place you should be. The ultra-modern building features three hitting cages and three pitching mounds. There is also a great workout area.

The players learn everything from A-Z in baseball. When the players achieve the level of performance where they are ready to showcase their skills, they have the opportunity to join one of eight traveling teams.

If you want to tour the Baseball Performance Center, call 609-3509195, go on Facebook or visit at 3092 English Creek Ave. Who knows, maybe you will run into such great stars as Brett Kennedy, Drew Conover, Mainland great Chase Petty, Dean Mooney, Joey Loperfido or players from the Colorado Rockies, Reds, Angels, Astros, Cubs and many more.

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Late Longport resident gifts property to borough for public park

By William Sokolic

T

he properties stick out by omission.

No houses. Just grass lots, waiting for a future on 22nd Avenue, Longport.

You don’t see that kind of open space in a town where houses are often mere feet from each other.

Folks would pay a handsome price for either lot if they were on the market. But they're not and they won't be. Dorothy McGee owned the two lots, along with an adjacent house.

Dorothy, who passed away Nov. 18, bequeathed the lots to the borough with instructions to convert them into a park in perpetuity with her name on it. She also included explicit directions for a 3 feet high fence, and a gazebo, among other details.

“It is my understanding that she loved Longport and wanted to have a park with open space in her name,” said borough solicitor, Michael Affanato, who cannot recall a similar donation in Longport.

On Feb. 21, the borough will vote for or against the bequeathment. The vote is expected to be a resounding yes in favor, said Mayor Nick Russo.

It's a generous donation, but it also deprives the borough of property taxes if a nice size house or two could plop down there. Not only does the borough lose the tax haul, but it also cost the town for construction of the park and the main-

tenance moving forward. But that's okay. It’s still a nice gesture.

“It is unusual,” Russo said. “This is my 16th year with Longport, and I don’t get surprised. But this caught me off guard. I had no inkling.”

This type of transaction—bequeath an asset, even vacant lots—is often done by high-wealth individuals, said Michael Busler, Ph.D., professor of finance, Stockton University. “This action does reduce the value of the estate that is passed on to the heirs.”

The McGee family is thought to be on board with the decision. "The advantage is a tax liability reduction and sometimes it minimizes any disputes family members may have. If a parent leaves an asset to a child often the other children could be upset because they did not receive the asset," Busler said.

The resolution was on the agenda for the Jan. 17 borough meeting. But it was withdrawn then.

"The resolution was withdrawn for me to work out deed restriction language with the estate attorney," Affanato said.

Russo said, “Our attorney will make sure all the language in it will be able to abide by her wishes.”

The borough will have to spend thousands of dollars to construct what is needed, like benches, walkways, fencing and landscaping. A sign.

8

And don’t forget the gazebo. A bike rack to encourage biking over to the park.

Then the park must be maintained which means an expense must be budgeted annually.

Russo believes the project can be done in-house. Public Works can purchase the material. “We must make sure there is nothing we can’t accomplish. Signage, the gazebo. In government we cannot just move money around,” he said.

Neighbors even pledged to help financially. And why not? Less congestion is one advantage of a park.

The advantage to the borough is that they get a sizable piece of ground in an excellent location that will provide a park for residents well into the future.

And they could provide this at a much lower cost than if they had to purchase ground for a park, Busler said.

“I don't know what other heirs Dorothy had or the value of her estate. But she wanted the town to remember her after she passed. A park will be constructed and somewhere it will be displayed that the park is a result of the generous donation by Dorothy McGee,” Busler said.

Russo estimates that each lot carries a worth of at least $1.7 million.

Once a re-eval or re-assessment is conducted, each could be worth $2.5 million, undeveloped.

Still Russo said supporting the request is a no brainer. “I definitely will vote yes.”

Given the property value in Longport, taking these lots off the books doesn’t mean that much, Russo said.

“I’m anxious to see what the finished product is.”

William Sokolic is a veteran journalist who has written for daily, weekly and monthly publications. He’s covered a wide range of news, features and entertainment stories. Much of his work concerns tourism, Atlantic City, and the gaming industry.

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This incident marks the second roadway rescue of a seal by MMSC this season, serving as a reminder to residents and visitors of the shore communities to drive cautiously, especially during coastal flood advisories. Gray seals, born on islands, may wander off in search of water when lost, leading them to unexpected places like backyards, parking lots, and roadways.

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young gray seal pup found itself far from the ocean, leading to a rescue operation on Wednesday, Feb. 7.

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The adventurous male seal pup, estimated to be between 4 and 6 weeks old, was initially spotted by residents strolling down West Avenue between 42nd and 43rd streets. As the MMSC's Stranding Coordinator rushed to the scene, local residents tracked the pup's journey, which took it from backyards to sidewalks, and eventually onto the busy 42nd Street.

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Marsini's Kitchen in Somers Point seeks new location after sudden closure

By Julia Train

M

arsini's Kitchen, a popular restaurant and catering service in Somers Point, has announced its unexpected departure from its current location at 12 E. Maryland Ave. The announcement came through an Instagram post by owner Carlo Marsini on Saturday, revealing the need for a new venue due to space constraints and a misunderstanding with the landlord.

Despite the abrupt closure, Marsini expressed no hard feelings toward the situation, emphasizing gratitude for the past six years and the experiences gained. The decision to move comes after a previous announcement on Jan. 13 about a three-month

February 15, 2024

closure for renovations, which has now taken a different turn.

The restaurant is actively seeking suggestions for a new location from its community of followers, who have already shown overwhelming support and loyalty with over 900 comments on the post. Popular suggestions for potential new sites include the former locations of Drip N’ Scoop in Somers Point, Bay Ave. Sushi, Angelo’s Pizza in Sea Isle, and the old Billy Ho’s in Margate.

Marsini reassured customers that the restaurant would continue catering operations on a limited basis and honor all existing commitments and gift cards. The process for redeeming gift cards during this transition period will be detailed in the coming days.

The community's response to Marsini’s announcement has been one of solidarity and

support, with many offering to assist in the search for a new location. Among the supporters, a local realtor offered to help Marsini find a suitable new spot, highlighting the strong community ties the restaurant has built over the years.

In his message to patrons, Mar-

sini reflected on the journey at 12 E. Maryland Ave, describing it as a mix of highs, lows, and memorable moments. He extended heartfelt thanks to the restaurant's loyal customers and friends, crediting them for their part in the establishment's success and the joy it brought to many.

As Marsini's Kitchen navigates this period of change, the focus remains on finding a new home where it can continue to serve its cherished recipes and create more memories with its dedicated community.

Julia is a student at Rider University, majoring in multiplatform journalism with a minor in social media strategies.

At school, she writes and is news editor 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

11

Meet Sherriff Tokyo Joe O’Donoghue

By Krystle J Bailey

K

nown around South Jersey as “Tokyo Joe,” Sheriff Joe O’Donoghue was elected as Atlantic County Sherriff in November of last year. He recently sat down with Shore Local to share a little about who the man behind the title is, his local roots, and his vision for Atlantic County.

O’Donoghue made history in more ways than one with his 2023 win over former Sherriff Eric Scheffler. The father of twelve is the first minority to be elected as Atlantic County Sherriff and the first to be elected to office, having worked as a former office employee. O’Donoghue has spent the last 41 years in law enforcement in Atlantic City, Hamilton Township, and at the county level in the sheriff’s office from 1983-2002.

This time in a new seat, O’Donoghue shares, “My vision for this office

is to return it to a fully functioning law enforcement agency; to assist and augment all policing agencies and municipalities; and provide the training that the officers need here.”

He went on to explain that there are currently over 5,500 active criminal warrants, including child support warrants, in Atlantic County, stating, “It’s important that we give people what has already been settled.”

O’Donoghue looks forward to implementing further safety measures both inside and outside of the court through an increase in uniformed police presence. Since taking office, he has placed uniform units at locations within the court buildings to ensure the safety and security of staff and those visiting the building. O’Donoghue has also placed an increased focus on the western end of the county into Buena Vista, an area that often lacks police presence.

In addition to the focus on law en-

forcement and safety, O’Donoghue looks forward to giving the women of the agency the recognition and promotions he feels they have long deserved.

Next week, for the first time in Atlantic County history, the Sherriff’s Office will be appointing a woman to a position only men have previously held. O’Donoghue feels that certain

investigations and situations that involve women should involve other females who can empathize and understand while ensuring protection and law enforcement.

Drug control, homelessness, and mental health are among some of the other topics O’Donoghue looks to seek solutions for while in office.

Tokyo Joe, who gets his name from his Japanese- Irish heritage, considers himself a native son of Atlantic City. Raised by the African American and Hispanic community, he grew up in, he shares, “They embraced me, and I embraced them.”

The nickname “Tokyo Joe” began as a taunt by kids chasing young Joe home from school as a kid, but through his martial arts journey, it became part of Joe’s identity and a means of embracing his Asian heritage.

The grandson of the first Japanese-American to gain citizenship in Atlantic County and raised by a cultural melting pot, Sheriff Joe O’Donoghue believes that diversity isn’t our weakness but our strength as a community.

The 69-year-old grandfather of 29 is expecting his 11th great-grandchild this year and considers his family, “The Baskin Robbins Family,” as diverse as a selection of Baskin Robbins ice cream. It’s that love for people from all backgrounds and walks of life that Joe looks forward to bringing into his role as Atlantic County Sherriff.

O’Donoghue plans to use the office to reach into the community in new ways and reassure residents that community needs will be met, that the law will be fairly administrated and that people will be treated with respect.

“Atlantic County is a family,” shares Tokyo Joe. “We need each other.”

Krystle J Bailey is the author of Nourish: A Journey to Loving and Embracing the Woman Within, host of The Coolest People in the World Podcast, and co-host of Joe’s Table for Two on WOND. She is a regular contributor for Shore Local Newsmagazine and co-host of Shore Local Women’s Network.

Krystle can be reached at linktree.com/krystlejbailey.

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This home has been lovingly maintained by a nearly 20-year full time owner and is located in a Desirable North Inlet Location, Perfect for yearround living, as a second home or profitable investment property.

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Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad in South Jersey

By Mari D’Albora Dattolo

O

utside of Greenwich in Cumberland County, NJ is one of the oldest African American settlements on the eastern seaboard. Springtown came about after the Manumission Act of 1786 when Quakers sold small tracts of land to free Blacks who then would settle into Philadelphia’s suburbs, or as far north as Canada. In the 1800 census, there were approximately 80 free people of African descent in Greenwich Township, as well as an equal number of enslaved people. New Jersey’s Gradual Abolition of Slavery Act was passed in 1804.

However, the last enslaved person in Greenwich wouldn’t be released until 25 years later in 1829.

One of the people who utilized New Jersey’s Underground Railroad was Harriet Tubman. Harriet Tubman, born “Araminta Ross” in March 1822, took her mother’s first name and her first husband’s last name when she reached adulthood.

Tubman was a strong-willed and courageous young woman born into slavery on a Maryland plantation.

When she was a child, an overseer threw a weight that struck her in the head. The resulting injury left her with severe headaches, seizures and narcolepsy for the rest of her life.

Disabled and only five feet tall, she was easy to underestimate.

Upon hearing that she would be sold to another plantation in

1849, she planned a daring escape into the Northern free states. With seven escape routes into New Jersey, points of entry from the South included Cape May, Greenwich and Springtown. Tubman planned to escape with her brothers, but they turned back due to fear of getting caught. As a result, Tubman made her first journey to freedom alone.

A year later, Tubman returned to free her sister and her sister’s two children from Dorchester County, MD. Traveling along the western route, they walked at night, hid during the day, foraged for food and slept outside on the ground without so much as a blanket. After approximately 90 miles, they crossed the Delaware Bay from the Eastern Shores into Quaker-occupied West Jersey. With the aid of Lenni Lenape scouts, she and her fellow fugitives followed the network of safe houses through South Jersey’s pine forests to the city of Philadelphia. She accomplished this feat using her knowledge of plants and herbs, navigating the intercoastal waterways and by the guidance system of the stars.

After her first success of guiding others to freedom, she began planning and executing missions to Maryland to free more slaves. In the summer months, Tubman found work as a domestic servant and cook in Cape May’s grand hotels. Her earnings enabled her to support the expense of future crossings. During these daring crossings, she carried a pistol and re-

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portedly told those tempted to turn back to “Live free or die.”

In her later years, Tubman participated in other antislavery efforts. She supported John Brown in his failed 1859 raid on the Harpers Ferry, Virginia arsenal. During the Civil War, she learned the towns and transportation routes of the Confederate army — information that made her a vital ally to Union military commanders. Tubman served as a spy and armed scout for the Union army, learning from the enslaved population about Confederate troop placements and supply lines. She also led the Combahee River Raid, which led to the freedom of 700 slaves in South Carolina and was the first woman-led raid in the United States.

At the war’s end, Tubman resided in Auburn, New York. She raised funds to aid freedmen and joined Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony in their quest for women’s suffrage. Tubman also cared for her aging parents. She married Union soldier Nelson Davis, who was also born

into slavery. Tubman was more than twenty years his senior. They adopted a daughter together in 1874.

After an extensive campaign for a military pension, Tubman was initially only awarded $8 per month in 1895 as Davis’s widow, who died in 1888.

She was finally granted $20 per month in 1899 for her service. Since the military denied her so long the pension she earned, Tubman worked with writer Sarah Bradford on a biography to generate income. In 1896, she opened the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged and cared for the elderly in her community. Harriet Tubman died in 1913 and was buried with military honors at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, New York.

The Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey opened its doors on Juneteenth 2021 and features artifacts and art from Harriet Tubman’s time in New Jersey when she worked as a cook in a Cape May hotel and raised funds to rescue enslaved people. The museum also highlights the history of Cape May as a crucial stop on the Underground Railroad and a center of abolitionist activity.

The Harriet Tubman Museum building is located on a block that antislavery activists called home in Cape May. Lafayette Street and Franklin Street became a center of abolitionist activity centered around three important buildings developed in 1846.

For more information or to visit the Harriet Tubman Museum email info@harriettubmanmuseum.org or visit harriettubmanmuseum.org.

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15

Embrace your heart: Essential tips for a healthier you this heart health month

By Dr. LaToya Roberts

F

ebruary is the perfect time to remind readers that heart disease remains the single greatest cause of death in the United States. Here are some ways to help protect your heart.

Eat for Your heart I can’t stress enough the importance of healthy eating and nutritional supplementation. In fact, I’d argue that if one is committed to eating a Standard American Diet (SAD), then you must bridge gaps in nutrition with quality, well-balanced, daily multivitamin supplements.

Eat the rainbow of fruits and veggies, fit in more fiber, eat more whole grains, include beans and legumes, cut out processed foods, avoid refined sugar and limit salt intake. It sounds like a lot but you don’t have to aim for perfection! The

Over 50Years of Goodness

key is small changes over time that add up to make a big difference in healthy eating habits.

Get Moving Keep your body moving regularly! The amount of physical activity a person gets each week is strongly associated with developing heart disease. More physical activity correlates with less risk of heart disease. So, take a walk, do yoga, go for a bike ride, go out dancing or just dance in your living room by candlelight, but do it regularly.

Healthy Heart Omegas Omega-3 fatty acids are considered to be cardioprotective, they protect your heart, and you only have one heart. Fish rich in unsaturated fats such as mackerel, salmon, herring and sardines are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. If you’re like me, and you don’t eat fish, then in addition to adding a good omega-3 supplement, consume heart-healthy foods from a wide-variety of sources like whole grains, avocados, dark leafy greens, vegetables, legumes, and nuts are all linked to lower risk of heart disease.

Potent Polyphenol Resveratrol The resveratrol in red wine comes from the skin of grapes used to make

wine. But it can also be found in raspberries, blueberries, plums, apples and peanuts too. Resveratrol might help prevent damage to blood vessels, decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also called the "lousy" cholesterol, reduce inflammation and prevent blood clots. But while reviews are still mixed in the medical community about this polyphenol, the antioxidants in red wine, in limited amounts, has long been thought of as healthy for the heart. Drink responsibly.

Avoid Stress Stress is a major contributor to heart disease and chronic stressors can impact sleep, cause weight gain, lower immune health and the list goes on. While avoiding stress altogether is impossible, we can find ways to better cope with managing stressors. Protecting peace is high on my priority list and I’ll admit, that while avoidance may not be the best coping mechanism, I will avoid certain people and places that I know will trigger a stress response within me. That said, it is well-known that cuddling or snuggling with your significant other (or fluffy fur buddy) is good for an endorphin boost!

Endorphins improve mood, decrease inflammation, lowers stress hormones

in the body, lowers blood pressure and heart rate too! So use this to your health advantage- “My doctor says I need daily snuggles, cuddles and kisses to ward off heart disease.”

Quit Tobacco Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. The CDC agrees that smoking is the leading cause of preventable death and according to the FDA, nearly 70% of current adult smokers in the United States said they wanted to quit.

If you smoke or use tobacco products, you can greatly improve your health by quitting as soon as possible. And don’t be fooled by lucrative tobacco companies to use other devices as an alternative.

There are several programs to help stop using tobacco. The Atlantic Quit Center offers resources for free. You only have one heart so call The Atlantic Quit Center at 609-804-QUIT for more information.

LaToya Roberts, DO practices internal medicine at Harbor Internal Medicine. Her office is located in Bayside Commons suite 105, 501 Bay Avenue.in Somers Point.

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16

February 15, 2024

The Remembering Jamie Foundation announces its 24th Annual Italian Dinner Night

T

he Remembering Jamie Foundation is set to host its 24th Annual Italian Dinner Night on Saturday,

Feb. 24, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Egg Harbor Township. This cherished event honors the memory of Jamie Crescenzo, who tragically passed away in a car accident on Feb. 18, 2000, at the age of 20. A graduate of Egg Harbor Township High School and a full-time student at Atlantic Cape Community College, Jamie's life was cut short on her way to work during severe weather conditions.

In the wake of this tragedy, Jamie's parents, Jim and Margaret Crescenzo, established the Remembering Jamie Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, to celebrate Jamie's life and the values she held dear: family, friends, community, and education. The foundation awards annual scholarships to deserving students from Egg Harbor Township High School, Atlantic Cape Community College, and Stockton University, in addition to providing grants to local community organizations such as the Egg Harbor Township Police Athletic League, and Covenant House.

Over the years, the Crescenzo family has witnessed the profound impact of these scholarships on the lives of their recipients, many of whom maintain contact and express gratitude for the foundation's support. Jim Crescenzo emphasizes the significance of this gesture of faith in the students' potential, noting, "More than the money, it is the vote of confidence that matters the most."

Jamie's legacy of kindness and community service continues to inspire those around her, from her involvement in her high school's Key Club and

her role as manager of the Girls Basketball team to her generous support of coworkers in need. The Italian Dinner Night not only serves as a tribute to Jamie's spirit but also as a crucial fundraiser for the foundation's ongoing scholarship and grant initiatives.

For those interested in attending the Italian Dinner Night or seeking further information, please visit www.rememberingjamie.org. Join us in celebrating Jamie's life and supporting the aspirations of young individuals in our community.

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17

Multiday Events

Events and Happenings

Princesses on Ice

▶Friday, Feb. 16 – Sunday, Feb. 18, 6 p.m.

Renault Winery 72 Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Come out to Renault Winery’s Vinter Wonderland and watch your favorite princesses perform on ice, presented by the Atlantic City Figure Skating Club. This weekend, see Elsa, Anna, and Rapunzel perform live. View the complete schedule of events at www.renaultwinery.com.

U.S. Futsal Northeast Regional Championship

▶Friday, Feb. 16 – Monday, Feb. 19

Atlantic City Convention Center 1 Convention Blvd.

The largest futsal competition in the United States is coming to Atlantic City. Enjoy the fast-paced and intense action of this indoor soccer tournament. Additional information and tournament schedules can be found at www.atlanticcitysports.org/events.

4-H Model Train Show

▶Saturday, Feb. 17 & Sunday, Feb. 18, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Atlantic County 4-H Fairgrounds 3210 Route 50, Mays Landing Vendors with new and used railroad-related items and Operating Lay-

outs will be on display. There will be free parking and admission. Food and snacks will be available for purchase.

For more information, contact John at (609) 517-8849.

Friday, February 16

Photography Portrait Workshop

▶6 – 8 p.m.

Somers Point Senior Center 22 N. Ambler Rd. Presented by the Somers Point Arts Commission, Dan Myers is offering a one-session photography workshop for creating portraits. Bring your camera and, if possible, an external hot shoe flash. Participants must be 18 or over. Register by emailing danmyersphoto@gmail.com.

Vinter Wonderland Family Fun Night

▶6 – 8 p.m.

Renault Winery 72 Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Enjoy winter festivities at Renault.

This week, families can enjoy watching the movie “The Lion King”. Plus, enjoy a kid’s workshop where you can make your own mac and cheese bowl. View the complete schedule of events at www.renaultwinery.com.

Break! The Urban Funk Spectacular

▶7:30 p.m.

Stockton Performing Arts Center

101 Vera King Ferris Dr. Galloway This show traces the history of hiphop dancing. It is an electrifying show for the whole family that features a high-energy tribute to this creatively charged art form. Tickets and information can be found at www.stockton. edu/pac.

Saturday, February 17 Electronic Recycling

▶9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Atlantic County 4-H Fairgrounds 3210 Route 50, Mays Landing Join Atlantic County 4-H for their electronic recycling fundraiser.

E-waste, Inkjet printer cartridges, and trophies are accepted. More details available are at www.ac4hfair.org/ electronic-recycling.

Winter Warrior Challenge

▶9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Ocean City Civic Center 6th St. & Boardwalk A new Presidents Day weekend event will bring families and local businesses together in Ocean City in the heart of winter. The event will be run out of Civic Center and include four components: an obstacle course race for children, an obstacle course race for parents and individuals, team challenges such as a fire truck pull,

and an indoor festival for participants and spectators with local merchants, restaurants, and services. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Ocean City Nature and Environmental Family Fun-Day

▶9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean City High School Cafeteria Hosted by the Ocean City Environmental Commission, this year’s fifth annual event will include a wide range of hands-on, interactive, fun and educational experiences for both children and adults. Tentative activities include recycling crafts, free takeaways, nature and environmental exhibits, zoo and marine animals, and plenty of activities. Enter through the High School’s main entrance on Atlantic Ave. Mike’s Seafood Polar Bear Run/ Walk for Autism

▶12 p.m.

Excursion Park JFK Blvd. & Promenade, Sea Isle City Join Mike’s Seafood for their 16th Annual event to support individuals with autism. After the run and walk, meet in the heated tents at Excursion Park for live music, an awards ceremony, door prizes, magicians, and face painting for the kids, along with a buf-

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18

February 15, 2024

fet. Proceeds benefit special services schools, autism support groups, and families of special needs children. For more information or to register, visit www.polarbearrunwalkforautism.com.

Mad Science Saturday

▶12 – 2 p.m.

Noyes Arts Garage 2200 Fairmount Ave. Atlantic City Do you have a budding scientist at home? Join Noyes Arts Garage for this special event where curiosity meets creativity, and art and science become adventures. Hosted by the Girl Scouts of Central & South Jersey, this event is open to nonmembers, girls in grades K-12, and their caregivers. Register at noyesmuseum.org.

Book & Movie: “Hidden Figures”

▶2 p.m.

Longport Public Library 2305 Atlantic Ave. Read the inspiring biography “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly and join Longport Library for a film screening and discussion. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.

Sunday, February 18 Creative Flow Writing Group

▶10 – 11:30 a.m.

Somers Point Senior Center 22 N. Ambler Rd. Hosted by Shana W. Kestrel and presented by the Somers Point Arts Commission. This meetup will include mindfulness exercises, writing prompts, and optional sharing. All are welcome to attend. For more information, go to visitsomerspoint.com and click on Events.

Blacks and Jews: Examination of a Relationship presented by Councilman Kaleem Shabazz

▶1 – 2:30 p.m.

Temple Beth Shalom 4419 W. Brigantine Ave. Brigantine

Councilman Kaleem Shabazz examines the complex relationship of cooperation and conflict between African Americans and Jewish Americans in the United States. Call the TBS office at (609) 266-0403 for more information or if you would like to attend this engaging presentation either in person or by Zoom.

Michael Pedicin Concert Series

▶2 p.m.

Ocean City Free Public Library 1735 Simpson Ave. Ocean City Michael Pedicin presents: “An Homage to the World’s Important Jazz Saxophonists”. This week, enjoy live music by saxophonist Louis Taylor and the Jim Ridl/Andy Lalasis/Bob Shomo Trio. There is free admission.

No reservations are required. All concerts will be held in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. More information is available at www.oceancitylibrary. org.

Monday, February 19

President’s Day Skating Session

▶12 – 4 p.m.

Young’s Skating Center 763 Park Rd. Mays Landing Young’s is open for President’s Day. $14 includes four hours of skating, rental skates, and a slice of pizza and soda.

Tuesday, February 20 Family Nights at the Library

▶6:30 p.m.

Ocean City Free Public Library 1735 Simpson Ave. Ocean City It’s Tinker Tuesday at the Library.

Imagine, create, and build. This event will be held in the Children’s Activity Room. This is for children aged 6 – 11 years. More information is available at www.oceancitylibrary.org.

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19

↘Continued from 19 Trivia Night

▶6:30 p.m.

Longport Public Library 2305 Atlantic Ave. Gather your friends and test your knowledge in an evening of brain-teasing fun. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.

Wednesday, February 21 After School Movies

▶3 p.m.

Ocean City Free Public Library 1735 Simpson Ave. Ocean City Join the Library for an after-school movie in the Lecture Hall N110. This week, enjoy a screening of “The Marvels” (PG-13). There will be free snacks.

Bring a friend. More information is available at www.oceancitylibrary.org.

Somers Point Pinochle Club

▶6 – 8:30 p.m.

Somers Point Senior Center 22 N.

Ambler Rd. All are welcome to attend. For more information, go to visitsomerspoint. com and click on Events.

Tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series

prepare for a restful sleep. Topics include self-care, mindfulness, gratitude, meditation, resiliency, and more. RSVP

by Feb. 19 by calling (609) 287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point Hosted by the South Jersey Jazz Society. Enjoy an evening of live jazz music, featuring Tom Angello on the drums, Joe Madiri on clarinet, Pat Mercuri on guitar, Dan Tobias on the trumpet, and Jack Hegyl on the bass.

World Above: Poetry Open Mic

Thursday, February 22

▶7 p.m.

▶7 – 9 p.m.

Noyes Arts Garage 2200 Fairmount Ave. Atlantic City Hosted by the Murphy Writing Center and Noyes Arts Garage, register at noyesmuseum.org.

Positivity Project: Evening Retreat

▶7 p.m.

Shed the cares of the day away and

Piano Bar with Michael McAssey

▶7 p.m.

Gateway Playhouse 738 Bay Ave. An unforgettable evening of music, featuring New York’s own Michael McAssey on piano. This is an open mic evening, so if you have any music bring it along. Everyone is welcome to sing or just watch this fun evening unfold.

Learn more at www.gatewaybythebay. org.

South Jersey Players Dinner Theater

▶6 p.m.

Aroma Restaurant 5206 Atlantic Ave. Ventnor Enjoy a three-course plated dinner

(BYOB) followed by five new original one-acts. Playwrights include Tom Chin, Sondra Mandel, Jim O’Hara, Sheila McDonald, and Edward Shakespeare, plus over a dozen actors. Reid Alburger will provide dinner music on classical guitar. Scott Friedman will host the event. Tickets are $45 per person. For reservations, call (347) 920-6399.

Saturday, February 24

Remembering Jamie Italian Night Dinner

▶4 – 8 p.m.

Elks Lodge 1815 Somers Point Rd. Egg Harbor Township Join the Remembering Jamie Foundation for their annual Italian Night Buffet. Admission includes salad, entrée, dessert, beer, and soda, plus a silent auction, and music. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children.

Purchase tickets at the door or online at www.rememberingjamie.org.

Sunday, February 25

Professional Chef’s Association Scholarship Ball

▶4 – 8 p.m.

Renault Winery 72 Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Join the Professional Chef’s Association of South Jersey for an evening of celebration and support as they commemorate the 50th anniversary of their Scholarship Ball. Guests will enjoy a wide array of activities, including live music and delectable cuisine, with the stunning ambiance of Renault Winery as the perfect backdrop for this special evening. Help contribute to the future of education and make a lasting impact on the lives of deserving students. Tickets can be purchased online at www.acpcasj.com/events.

Tuesday, February 27 Memory Café

▶10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean City Library 1735 Simpson Ave. Caregivers are invited to join JFS Village and UMC representatives in a dementia-friendly space. Experience creativity and social connections through art, music, gentle movements, and more. RSVP by Feb. 20 by calling (609) 287-8872 or email tserota@ jfsatlantic.org.

Thursday, February 29

Education Breakfast on Gut Health

▶7 p.m.

Linwood Country Club 500 Shore Rd. Linwood Shore Physicians Group will host a free breakfast on gut health in continuation of its “Be Well Connected” community education series. The breakfast will feature a presentation by three esteemed experts. Guests will enjoy a buffet breakfast. To RSVP, email your full name and any guests

20

February 15, 2024

to wellness@shoremedicalcenter.org

by Feb. 22. For more information, call (609) 365-5257.

Health and Wellness

Cancer: Thriving and Surviving

▶Tuesdays through Feb. 20, 4:30 – 7 p.m.

Shore Cancer Center Shore Rd. & Medical Center Way, Somers Point Shore Medical Center and the Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health will host a free 6-week workshop for individuals affected by cancer. This interactive program is designed to empower participants with the tools and strategies to manage their health and lead fulfilling lives. Participants who complete

the series will receive a $25 Wawa gift card. Class size is limited. Interested individuals should register by calling (609) 653-3923.

NAMI Basics Program

information, email nami1557@gmail. com, or visit www.namiacm.org.

Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, Feb. 21, 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) 402-6966 for more information.

MHA Atlantic Family Meeting

▶Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.

Now through March 14, NAMI Atlantic Cape May is pleased to announce their new educational program for parents of children and adolescents, ages up to 21, with symptoms of mental illness. This program covers treatment options, managing crisis situations, problem-solving, communicating effectively, taking care of yourself, and handling stress in a positive way. This free program will be held via Zoom.

Registration is open now. For more

▶Thursday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m.

This support group is open to individuals with a loved one who is affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. To receive a link, contact Gail Christian at (609) 652-3800 ext.

0301 or email gchristian@mhanj.org.

Sports Injuries

Pre & Post Surgeries Vestibular & Vertigo Multiple Sclerosis

Parkinson’s Disease

▶Monday, March 11, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph Church 608 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.

Do you have an upcoming event?

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

Offering in-office & home health.

We are here for your therapy & wellness needs!

Scoliosis

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NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

Stroke Pelvic Floor TMJ

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Swallowing

Speech Articulation Language

Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s

Voice

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314 CENTRAL AVENUE LINWOOD, N.J. 08221

609-365-8499 February 15, 2024

www.bodyinbalancerehab.com 21

It happened at the 500 Club: The night that Martin and Lewis became a team

By Bruce Klauber

T

he story of how Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis first teamed up has been told and retold with many variations, mostly by Jerry Lewis.

What we are certain of is that their debut as a comedy team took place at Atlantic City’s 500 Club, at 6 Missouri Ave., on Thursday night, July 25, 1946; and that within a short time, the duo became the hottest act in show business and remained so until their breakup 10 years to the day later.

In 1946, the 500 Club was on its way to becoming a nationally known entertainment venue that booked the biggest stars in the business, from Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr. to Nat “King” Cole and Dean Martin. In June of 1946, the colorful and iconic Atlantic City legend, Paul “Skinny”

D’Amato, and a partner named Irwin Wolf, bought out one-half of the interest in the club from owner Marco DiFozio. The beloved D’Amato, whose connection to organized crime has been well-documented, became the sole owner three years later.

The club was open from 5 p.m. until 10 a.m., with the last show taking place at 4 a.m. There was gambling in the rear, until the police shut it down in the early 1950s. By 1955, the capacity of the venue was said to be 700, but in 1946, the 500 Club was relatively small, seating somewhere between 300 and 400. The entertainment in those early days consisted of regional acts as well as mid-level performers from the East and West coasts.

It’s important to note that at that time, dozens – perhaps hundreds – of nightclubs, restaurants, cafes and bars in bigger cities all over the country regularly booked singers, comics, dancers, variety performers and musicians. Work was plentiful for a good performer, though most of them never ended up playing the Copacabana in New York City, the Holy Grail of nightclubs at the time. Good

work, though not yet great work, was plentiful for Dean Martin.

Martin, a good-looking crooner who had an easy way with a song and was always well-liked by audiences, especially female, was experiencing a

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modicum of success in mid-line New York clubs like the Riobamba and the Havana-Madrid. He also had a 15-minute radio show broadcast locally in New York City and signed a recording contract with the miniscule Diamond Records. No, it wasn’t big-time stuff yet, but it was clear that Martin was on his way to better things. The same could not be said of Jerry Lewis during that period.

Since his teens, Lewis had been knocking around with what was called a “record act,” humorously miming to recordings, something that would be a part of his nightclub show for years. By all accounts, it was corny and anything but successful. He bombed in burlesque, proved to be an ill-at-ease master of ceremonies, and worked all kinds of day jobs until he finally landed a booking at Brown's in the Catskill Mountains. For whatever reason, the audiences there reportedly loved his craziness and the hokey record act. His bookings did improve slightly after that, but not by much.

Performers on the nightclub circuit around New York City back then often met and hung out, often bemoaning the state of their careers, and Martin and Lewis met several times, quite casually, around 1945. In that year, the two found themselves on the same bill at a New York City nightspot called The Glass Hat. According to a couple of New York City gossip columns, Lewis “fooled around” during Martin’s act, interrupting Martin’s singing with bad jokes and general mayhem. The col-

↘Continued on 24 February 15, 2024

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↘Continued from 22 umns reported that Glass Hat audiences got a real kick out of it. Though Lewis claimed years later that they were “just screwing around,” what the team did on stage in the club that night was the genesis of the act they would perform for the next 10 years.

As individual solo acts in 1945, Martin and Lewis joined other barely known performers on The Glass Hat schedule that year, including, said a newspaper ad, a “new singing star with a new singing style” named Mary Jane Walsh, Sonny Kendis and his Orchestra, Jose Manzanares and his South Americans, and radio’s Frank Bessinger. It was hardly earth-shaking entertainment.

Lewis’ tireless manager, Irving Kaye, believed his client was headed for stardom and could do no wrong, despite Lewis’ bombing virtually everywhere. Kaye convinced Lewis’ booking agent, Abby Greshler, to book Lewis and his record act into Atlantic City’s 500 Club for $150 per week. In all probability, Lewis was booked at the 500 for Tuesday through Saturday – and perhaps for a Sunday matinee – July 23 through July 27, 1946. In line with the actual formation of the comedy team, Lewis’ repeated story over the years was that the singer booked to be on the bill at the 500 Club that week some-

how became unavailable, and that he suggested to Skinny D’Amato that Dean Martin would be perfect to take over the spot.

According to Lewis’ biographer Shaun Levy, as well as authors Arthur Marx and Jonathan Van Meter, and all wrote extensively about Martin and Lewis, that is not what happened. The truth, said the authors, is that Lewis and his record act laid an egg again, and Skinny D’Amato was furious. On top of that, D’Amato’s partner, Irvin Wolf, just couldn’t stand Jerry and his act, and refused to be in the club when Lewis took the stage.

The 19-year-old Lewis, who already had a wife and child to support, really needed that job and begged D’Amato to keep him on. He promised D’Amato that he would do “some funny stuff” with Dean Martin, already on his way to the shore. Just who made calls to what agent to get Martin down to Atlantic City remains a question, but the fact is, D’Amato relented, and Martin was brought in. It helped that D’Amato wasn’t all that happy with singer Jack Randall, second on the bill next to headliner Jayne Manners and third-billed Jerry. Note that veteran nightclub performer Sophie Tucker, “The Last of the Red Hot Mamas,” was headlining in the club’s back room during that week in July.

The first show on the night of July

25 did not go well. While Dean was okay, Jerry was on his way to bombing again, further infuriating D’Amato, who told the two that they had best start with “the funny stuff,” or else Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis would be history.

Despite Lewis’ repeated claim that he “wrote the act on a paper bag” between shows, the performance was an expanded, impromptu version of the “fooling around” they did at The Glass Hat: While Martin was on stage and singing in his usual, casually romantic manner, Lewis, dressed as a busboy, began running around the room manically breaking dishes, and generally playing the wild man.

He ended up on the stage, continuously interrupting his partner’s singing with jokes, nonsensical patter and all kinds of crazy physical business, all delivered in Jerry Lewis’ patented whine that automatically made you think of him hysterically braying, “Laaaaydeee!”

Lewis often claimed that the two improvised on stage for hours. It was probably closer to 75 minutes, but whatever it was, Martin and Lewis were a hit. A very big hit. Sophie Tucker, according to author Van Meter, called Skinny D’Amato over to her table and said, “Skinny, do yourself a favor, keep these guys and let them do what they’re doing tonight.”

To this day, the meeting and the debut of Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis is how a comedy team defines the term, “overnight success.” Word spread quickly in Atlantic City in those days, and large crowds began coming the following night, a Friday.

In several days, the lines were around the block. Headliner Jayne Manners

was let go and replaced on the bill by Martin. Jerry was second-billed as an “extra added attraction.” The act helped put the 500 Club on the map and, said Van Meter, “turned Skinny D’Amato into one of the most important nightclub owners in the country.”

In those days, Lewis looked upon his partner as his protector, the brother he never had, and the good-looking ladies’ man he would never be. He also realized Martin’s importance to the team and acknowledged, years later, that Dean Martin was, in all likelihood, the greatest straight man in the history of show business. In the 10 years since they first met, the pair appeared on radio, were regulars on television's “Colgate Comedy Hour,” starred in 16 motion pictures and appeared in every major nightclub in the country. They were the hottest act and the highest paid attraction in the industry.

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By 1956, their partnership had soured. Advisers to each man were trying to convince each of them that they could do better without a partner, and Martin had become increasingly frustrated with the attention Lewis was receiving as well as where his partner’s concept of comedy was headed. He was fed up with Lewis’ belief that he was the next coming of Charlie Chaplin, and that he could do everything from writing and producing to singing and running the cameras. Ten years to the day, the team of Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis was no more. In his later years, Jerry Lewis acknowledged that the breakup was his fault.

The 500 Club would continue successfully until the 1960s, when the club began to have financial problems. The IRS closed it down for several months in 1971 because of back taxes due, and in 1973, the 500 Club was demolished in a fire. The building was not insured and the club was never rebuilt.

Atlantic City, and Martin and Lewis, would not forget Skinny D’Amato.

In the summer of 1981, a testimonial dinner honoring D’Amato as the Hebrew Academy of Atlantic City’s Man of the Year was held at Atlantic City’s International Hotel, formerly Teplitzky’s and now the Tropicana’s Chelsea Tower. D’Amato was the first

February 15, 2024

gentile to be honored by the Hebrew Academy in its history.

Appearing in-person were Frank Sinatra and Jerry Lewis, among others. Video clips of Danny Thomas, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Dean Martin were shown. All spoke of how important D’Amato was to them professionally and personally. Dean, doing his drunk act, simply said, “Skinny, you’re the greatest dago that ever lived.” Lewis could only say how he was “befriended, protected, guided, and helped” by Skinny D’Amato.

Paul “Skinny” D’Amato died on June 5, 1984. Dean Martin died on Christmas Day, 1995. Five years earlier, Jerry Lewis walked out on the stage of Bally’s in Las Vegas while Dean Martin was performing. It was Dean Martin’s 72nd birthday and his ex-partner wanted to surprise him.

On stage, Lewis said, “Why we broke up, I’ll never know.” Dean replied, “You surprised me. I love you.” Jerry Lewis died on Aug. 20, 2017.

Love Your Game!

Bruce Klauber is the author of four books, an award-winning music journalist, concert and record producer and publicist, producer of the Warner Brothers and Hudson Music "Jazz Legends" film series, and performs both as a drummer and vocalist.

25

Early St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with McDermott’s Handy

T

he Ocean City Arts Center presents McDermott’s Handy in an early celebration for St. Patrick’s Day and recognizes a member of the duo, Kathy DeAngelo, as a recipient of the inaugural New Jersey Heritage Fellowship award. The event is Saturday, March 2 at 3 p.m. in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall of the Ocean City Public Library, 1735 Simpson Avenue, Ocean City. It is free and open to the public.

However, reservations are suggested and can be handled online or by phone at the Arts Center.

McDermott’s Handy combines Kathy DeAngelo and Dennis Gormley,

the husband-wife duo who have been performing traditional Irish music together in the Delaware Valley (South Jersey/Philadelphia region) since 1979. These award-winning talented multi-instrumentalists put on a super concert. They combine their strong vocals and equally strong backing accompaniment with a commanding stage presence that comes from hundreds of performances in front of all kinds of audiences.

The Arts Center is proud to celebrate the achievements of Kathy DeAngelo from Voorhees, one of the five South Jersey recipients of New Jersey State Council of the Arts’ inaugural New Jersey Heritage Fellowships. The recipients represent Folk and Traditional Arts that are artistic

traditions of specific ethnic, religious, regional groups, and more. Their artistry is often shaped and shared within families and communities throughout generations to continue and preserve their respective histories and heritages. The New Jersey Heritage Fellowships recognize artistic excellence and the contributions towards traditional arts and heritage that highlight the diversity of the state, especially in South Jersey.

Visit the Ocean City Arts Center website for more information and to reserve your seat, or call (609) 3997628.

This program is made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

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February 15, 2024

New Winter Warrior Festival offers some mid-February fun

T

he inaugural Winter Warrior Festival on Saturday in Ocean City will provide a great way to escape cabin fever.

The event runs 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Ocean City Civic Center (Sixth Street and Boardwalk). The festival is free to attend, and will include special sales from local merchants, crafters, and food vendors. It’ll be a taste of summer in the heart of winter. While the festival runs indoors, a series of race events will be going on outside.

Come cheer for teams from local businesses and community groups as they compete for bragging rights in challenges that include a fire truck pull and tire-flip relay. Watch individuals compete in obstacle-course challenges.

It’s not too late to sign up to compete in any of the races.

The event includes: ● Kids Obstacles: A fun, noncompetitive course includes a rock wall, hazard walls, cargo net, agility poles, teeter plank, monkey bars, floating steps, tire run, and noodle tower. ● “Winter Warrior Challenge”: Show your grit on a cold 2.5-mile course with 10 obstacles. Look for things like

sand mounds, tires, teeter-totters and monkey bars along the way. This race is reserved for participants ages 14 and older. All survivors receive an exclusive Winter Warrior Challenge finisher T-shirt. ● “Winter Warrior” Team Challenges: Teams of four from local businesses, organizations, churches and other groups will compete in events such as a fire truck pull and tire-flip relay.

Registration for all events is open now, and discounted fees will be available through 4 p.m. Feb. 14. For complete information and registration, visit ocnj.us/ OCNJWinterWarrior.

NATURE FAMILY FUN DAY ON SATURDAY The annual Nature and the Environment Family Fun Day will be held next door to the Winter Warrior Festival on Saturday, and the two events could make for a great outing for the whole family.

Family Fun Day is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. 17 in the Ocean City High School cafeteria. This year’s fifth annual event will include a wide range of nature and environmentally focused hands-on, interactive, fun and educational

experiences for both children and adults.

The free event is sponsored by Ocean City’s Environmental Commission and held in partnership with the Ocean City Free Public Library and the Cape May County Park & Zoo, the Wetlands Institute and Rutgers University Agricultural Extension.

The tentative lineup of participants includes: ● Hands-on activities ● Small zoo animal interaction ● Marine life interaction ● Recycling arts and crafts ● Nature and environmental take-aways ● Demonstrations, exhibits, experts and take-aways for the whole family ● Bringing back the original Jersey tomato – lecture & seed giveaway (Rutgers Univ.) ● Environmentally friendly shellfish replenishing – demonstration (ACT Engineers) ● Protecting the watershed and cleaning up the bay – demonstration (AmeriCorps) ● Trash decomposition and the environment (Ocean City Environmental Commission)

Chill Out at the Library The Place to be This Winter

● ● ● ● ● ● ●

●

The ins and outs of recycling (Cape May Municipal Utilities Authority) How to compost (Ocean City Environmental Commission) Native plants exhibit (Ocean City Environmental Commission) Energy efficiency (South Jersey Gas) Energy efficiency (AC Electric) Water efficiency (New Jersey American Water) Solid waste and wastewater management (Cape May Municipal Utilities Authority) Electric-vehicle charging

OCEAN CITY JOB FAIR SET FOR MARCH 16 AT MUSIC PIER The Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Ocean City High School to assist businesses in filling seasonal employment positions.

The Ocean City Job Fair is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 16, at the Ocean City Music Pier. The event is open to everyone and the Chamber strongly encourages employers and potential employees to sign up now.

For further information, call the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce at 609-399-1412.

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27

What it takes to go pro

By Bill Quain

I

’m writing this column the day before the Super Bowl. Every single player at that game made the decision to “go pro” at some point in their careers. Maybe they dreamed about it as little kids. When they got to high school, they began to turn their dreams into reality by doing whatever it took to be the best.

The players we see in the Super Bowl are the best of the best – not just because of talent, but because of their professionalism. Some will tackle, some will pass, and some will run. One of them will actually fly. That is, one will be on a private jet from Tokyo. T.S. is a real pro, just like the others.

Each of them will be where they are – on the biggest stage in the world – because they decided to “go pro.”

Each of us can “go pro”.

It isn’t just sports and entertainment superstars who must decide to go pro. Each of us – no matter what we do – is a decision away from reaching our potential. Making that decision is the first step in a process that can take you from being a pretender to being a contender – for whatever you want. All the pros we watched during the Super Bowl followed a process. They decided

to stand out, to take a chance, and to take their best shot. Once that decision was made, they also took the next steps – to learn, practice, perform, and repeat it all as many times as it took to be the best.

It is all part of “sunny”.

If you’ve been reading my column, you know about my series “money, sunny and honey”. Money is self-evident. We all need it! “Sunny” is your mental, emotional and physical health.

“Honey” is your relationships. This is my last column on “sunny” before we dive into the “honey” stuff. If you want to catch up, check out shorelocalnews. com for past issues on this topic.

Going pro is both a behavioral and an attitude decision, and that puts it squarely into the Sunny category.

Each of us will make a number of “go pro” decisions throughout our lives.

It might be for sports, a profession, a relationship, or any number of things.

When I was younger, I played the banjo. When I moved to New Orleans, I earned a spot in a Dixieland Marching Band. Although we did not get paid, we had to go pro by taking on the persona and practices of street-marching Mardi Gras musicians. I learned my music, practiced marching in somewhat of a formation, and most importantly for a

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New Orleans Marching Band, learned the tricks of escaping the clutches of over-exuberant and often tipsy fans.

The Rolling Stones had no competition from us, but we weren’t just a mob on the street. We were a band! Something separated us from other people. When we marched, we were believable.

Life: Do it like a pro.

Each of us takes on a whole series of roles in life. We go from son or daughter to student, and from friend to sweetheart or partner. We pick up hobbies and interests. Some of them turn into professions. We learn to make money and to take a position in a community. All of us move back and forth between learners and teachers.

It’s a journey! If we want to get the most and give the most on that journey, we must make the decision to go pro. We need to look for others who have made the same decision.

Best of all, pros get paid!

I mentioned that I didn’t get paid for playing in the marching band in New Orleans. Well, let me clarify that. I didn’t get paid money. But wow, it was sure fun to be identified as a musician during Mardi Gras! At the end of the parades, when we walked into a bar with our instruments, we got respect.

All of the tourists made room for us.

People smiled at us and thanked us for our music. We brought a lot of joy to the occasion and felt it coming back to us.

My proudest moment as a “pro” came when a group of us walked into a bar after a march. The house band was in full swing on a small stage. The banjo player jumped down beside me and said, “Let’s play ‘Crawfish Pie' in the key of C.” We led the patrons in a great march around the bar and played for about a half hour. What a day! If we hadn’t looked and acted like pros, nobody would have asked us to join in.

SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK BENCH by Bill Quain All the pros recognize each other.

So, will you be in the audience, on the sidelines, or in the waiting room all your life? Or will you go pro in something, and show the world that you are a serious player? You’ll find that when you go pro, other pros will recognize you the minute you step on the stage!

Or, as it happened to me on that magical day in the French Quarters, they will recognize you when you show up with your banjo and a stylish hat. Once you make the switch from amateur status to a serious pro, you’ll stand out from the crowd and be invited to play with the big kids.

Tell me your going pro story.

Hey pro, I recognize you! You’re the one who… okay, fill in the blanks. Send me an email to bill@quain.com. Tell me how you went pro. It’s time to share!

As I say each week, “I’ll see you 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.

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February 15, 2024

Bring colorful primroses indoors to fight the winter blues

By Tammy Thornton

D

reary days and cold temperatures may have you suffering from the winter blues. But here’s the good news: Spring is just over four weeks away. But that may be a small consolation when you are looking out over a cold, brown garden and wrapping yourself in another layer of blankets.

Colorful primroses may be just the little pick-me-up you need to get you through these next few weeks. Time to bring a dose of spring goodness indoors.

Outdoors, primroses are among the first perennials to open their sleepy eyes and shine their perky faces on a new season. In my garden, they have been working on an appearance for months during this mild winter.

Some of the braver plants are already beginning to bloom. Their Latin name, primula, gives us a hint to this early bloom. The root word, primus, can be translated as prime or first.

But you don’t need to wait until they are in full bloom in your garden to enjoy these little beauties. You can purchase primroses for a few dollars from most grocery stores and keep them as houseplants while you wait for warmer days. This time of year, these happy little flowers can be found in a myriad of colors begging you to bring them home. The ones you find growing indoors at the store this time of year have been carefully groomed and coddled to be at their peak. You wouldn’t want to thrust them outside just yet, since they have been living a life of luxury and wouldn’t be acclimated to the rough world of outdoor winter life. Place them around the house in a sunny location out of direct sunlight, and their cheery faces should brighten yours. Primroses are cool season plants, so a windowsill or bay window should provide the right conditions, since it may be a little cooler by the windows.

Just like outdoor plants, you will want to keep your primroses well-watered but well-drained. Once temperatures warm up a bit, you can gradually harden off your indoor primroses and plant them outside.

Once garden nurseries open in the spring, primroses that are being sold outside will most likely be ready to plant directly into the ground. Under the correct conditions, they should come back year after year.

Primroses don’t like the heat or direct sun. When transplanting outside in spring, choose a partly shaded spot.

Some other garden plants that will grow in similar conditions are hostas, astilbes, and ferns. Primroses make perfect border plants, especially lining a pathway in your part-shade garden.

They will bloom best in spring and then take a bit of a nap when summer heat comes along. Be sure to give them an extra helping of water so that they don’t dry out. In the fall, you may get a fresh round of blooms, less exuberant than in spring. During the coldest months, they may disappear for a while and can benefit from a small cover of leaves or mulch.

In all their beauty, primroses are also edible and can be used in vinegars, salads, or tea. Crystallized flowers would make a lovely embellishment on cakes or other desserts. A word of caution though: Primroses can be toxic for both cats and dogs, so keep your furry friends away from these plants.

For indoor plants, group an assortment of different colors together for a cheery display. They would also make a beautiful spring arrangement when coupled with forced tulips and daffodils. Place them in a pretty spring pot and cover any bare spots with moss.

These colorful, happy flowers may be just the thing you need to add a little bright spot to your home while you wait for spring.

We would love to hear from our readers. Send your questions, comments, or suggestions 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.

New arrivals daily.

February 15, 2024

29

Chiefs on brink of dynasty

By David Weinberg

T

he “D” word tends to get thrown around whenever a sports franchise starts to achieve a lot of success.

The qualifications to be called a dynasty vary, but the Kansas City Chiefs are poised to be included in the conversation.

The Chiefs won their second straight Super Bowl championship and third in the last five years last Sunday with a 25-22, overtime victory – just the second overtime game in Super Bowl history – over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII (58).

It has been decades in the making for the Chiefs, who prior to their current streak hadn’t hoisted the Lombardi Trophy since the 1969 season, when quarterback Len Dawson, wide receiver Otis Taylor, defensive end

Elisa Jo Eagan

Buck Buchanon and coach Hank Stram delivered a 23-7 win over the Minnesota Vikings in SB IV. That’s a lot of years and a lot of Roman numerals ago.

Coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes are the chief reasons behind Kansas City’s recent success.

Reid has rebuilt his legacy. During his 14-year tenure in Philadelphia (1999-2012), “Big Red” had a habit of coming up short in big games. The Eagles reached five NFC Championship games in those years (2001-04, 2008), but lost four – including two at home to Tampa Bay and Carolina, respectively, as the conference’s number one seed. They finally made the Super Bowl in the 2004 season, only to lose to Tom Brady and the Patriots.

By 2012, it was apparent that both the franchise and the coach needed a change. And it worked out for both sides, though it took a while.

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three years of Chip Kelly before coach Doug Pederson and backup quarterback Nick Foles led them to the franchise’s first Super Bowl win – they had won NFL titles in 1947-48 and 1960 in the pre-Super Bowl era – in 2017.

Meanwhile, Reid’s tenure in Kansas City got off to a rocky start. The Chiefs made the playoffs in 2013, but blew a 28-point lead en route to a 45-44 loss at Indianapolis in the WildCard round.

His big-game failings continued for a few more seasons. He made the playoffs in four of his first five seasons with the Chiefs, but continued to come up short.

If Chiefs fans wanted to watch a dynasty back then, they had to tune in reruns of the old TV show featuring Blake (John Forsythe) and Alexis (Joan Collins) Carrington.

Kansas City’s fortunes changed soon after Mahomes’ arrival as the Chiefs’ first-round draft pick in 2017 out of Texas Tech.

Starting in 2019, Mahomes and Reid guided the Chiefs to four Super Bowl appearances in a five-year span, a feat attained only by New England’s Brady and coach Bill Belichick in 2014-18 and Buffalo’s Jim Kelly and Marv Levy in 1990-93.

This year’s appearance might have been the most impressive, considering the Chiefs beat the AFC’s top two seeds – Buffalo and Baltimore – to earn the trip to Las Vegas.

Mahomes’ magic appeared to be running out in the first half against the 49ers – he threw for only 123 yards and tossed an interception while the Niners went ahead 10-0 – but delivered when it mattered most in the fourth quarter and overtime.

And there’s little reason to think they won’t be back. The AFC is stacked with talented teams such as the Bills, Ravens, Houston Texans and others, but don’t be surprised if Taylor Swift is watching Travis Kelce from a luxury suite in New Orleans during Super Bowl LIX.

It remains to be seen if brother Jason Kelce will be joining Taylor in the stands as a spectator again or perhaps even standing on the other sideline with the Eagles.

Jason, who is said to be contemplating retirement after 13 seasons as the Eagles’ center, appeared to be embracing his role as a fan in recent weeks.

He was the talk of social media when he became an honorary member of the “Bills Mafia” in Buffalo, chugging booze out of bowling ball in the parking lot, then later leaping barechested into the stands to join in more revelry.

The 36-year-old also enjoyed himself at the Super Bowl. First, the Sea Isle City summer resident honored the host city of Las Vegas by showing up dressed like Alan from “The Hangover,” complete with T-shirt and satchel.

Is this the real Caesars Palace?

And is it pager-friendly?

After joining Swift and rapper Ice Spice in another luxury box for the game, he celebrated with Reid and Travis on the field, then was reportedly the hit of the after-party at XS Nightclub in Vegas while clad in a pair of Chiefs-themed overalls and matching Mexican wrestling mask.

No word if anyone kidnapped Mike Tyson’s tiger.

Local NFL update

Speaking of the Chiefs, running back Isiah Pacheco (Vineland) became the first local player to play in two Super Bowls and also to win two.

Pacheco, in his second year with Kansas City, got off to a rough start in the Super Bowl when he lost a fumble and also dropped a pitchout for a loss. But he recovered to deliver a solid performance. He rushed for 59 yards on 18 carries and also caught six passes for 33 yards. He had two receptions for 9 yards and a 3-yard run during the Chiefs’ game-winning touchdown drive in overtime.

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.

February 15, 2024

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Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Whitney’s Weekly Picks The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman

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

Who: Comedian & Actor Ron White Where: Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa | Event Center When: Friday, Feb. 16

Time: 8 p.m.

Website:https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/ event-center/ron-white.html Renowned comedian Ron White, affectionately known as “Tater Sal-

ad,” is Grammy nominated and has earned many career achievements.

His trajectory from humble beginnings to the echelons of comedy and entertainment is nothing short of awe-inspiring. You won't want to miss Ron White in Borgata's Event Center!

Who: American Rock Group 311 Where: Ocean Casino Resort | Ovation Hall When: Friday, Feb. 16 & Saturday, Feb., 17 Time: 9 p.m.

Website:www.theoceanac.com/entertainment/headliners/311 103.7 WMGM presents 311 at Ovation Hall.

Who: Tedeschi Trucks Band with Special Guest Little Feat Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino When: Friday, Feb. 9 Time: 8 p.m.

Website:www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com/event-calendar/tedeschitrucks-band-with-little-feat The iconic Tedeschi Trucks Band takes center stage at Hard Rock Atlantic City, bringing their soul-stirring tunes and incredible energy. As a special treat, the legendary Little Feat will be joining the lineup, promising two nights of unforgettable performances.

Who: Kool & The Gang Where: Ocean Casino Resort | Ovation Hall When: Saturday, Feb. 17 Time: 8 p.m.

Website:www.theoceanac.com/ entertainment/headliners/kool-gang One of the most inspired and influential funk units, Kool & The Gang, will perform their infectious disco funk hits from the ’70s and ’80s in Atlantic City!

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February 15, 2024

Who: Katt Williams: The Dark Matter Tour Where: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall When: Saturday, Feb. 17 Time: 8 p.m.

Website:w w w.boardwalkhall.com/event s/ detail/katt-williams-thedark-matter-tour Comedy legend Katt Williams brings his highly anticipated The Dark Matter Tour to Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, promising a night of unparalleled comedy that breaks through boundaries and challenges the status quo.

Who: Scott Keo Michael Bublé Tribute Artist Where: Resorts Casino Hotel

Keo has been bringing that amazing big band smooth “feel” to every event he and his swinging band have performed for around the world! No cheese, no gimmicks. Just a pure Sinatra big band vibe, with a unique, modern Buble’ punch. And, of course, the voice. Can’t get Bublé sound without that velvet, buttery voice.

When: Saturday, Feb. 17 Time: 8 p.m.

Website:https://resortsac.com/entertainment/michael-buble-tribute/ Billed as the world's number one Michael Bublé Tribute singer, Scott

What: UFC 298 Where: Ocean Casino Resort When: Saturday, Feb. 17 Time: 10 p.m.

Website:www.theoceanac.com/entertainment/other/ufc-298 Get ready for fight night at the best place to watch Boxing and UFC

Events in Atlantic City! The Gallery Bar, Book and Games is the ultimate venue to watch UFC 298, with comain event Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa, and main event Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria.

What: ‘A Very Brady Murder: A Murder Parody’ Where: Resorts Casino Hotel | Starlight Room When: Saturday, Feb. 17 Time: 5 p.m. & 8 p.m.

Website:https://resortsac.com/ entertainment/murder-mystery-atlantic-city/ Solve a murder during this interactive event. The Bradys are behaving badly!

It’s ‘A Very Brady Murder,’ and your help is needed to solve the crime.

↘Continued on 34

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↘Continued from 33 What: Primal Men Male Revue Where: Kiss Kiss Nightclub at Tropicana Atlantic City When: Saturday, Feb. 17 and every Saturday until April 27 Time: Doors open at 7 p.m. Showtime is at 8 p.m.

Website: https://linktr.ee/primalmenlive Prepare to live out your wildest fantasies at the Primal Men Revue – a truly tantalizing, sexy and energetic show. Tickets include admission to Kiss Kiss Nightclub after the show.

What: Winter Warrior Festival Where: Ocean City Civic Center When: Saturday, Feb. 17 Time: Festivities start at 8 a.m.

Website: https://www. ocnj.us/OCNJWinterWarrior A new Presidents Day weekend event will bring families and local businesses together in the heart of winter. The 2024 Winter Warrior Festival on Feb. 17 will be run out of the Ocean City Civic Center and include four components: an obstacle course

race for children, a “Winter Warrior” obstacle course race for parents and individuals, team challenges such a fire truck pull, and an indoor festival for participants and spectators.

Who: Flogging Molly, Road to Rebellion Tour Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino | Sound Waves When: Sunday, Feb. 18 Time: 8 p.m.

Website:www.hardrockh ote lat la n t i cci t y.co m/ e v e n t - c a l e n d a r/ f l o g ging-molly Flogging Molly with Amigo The Devil & Gen and The Degenerates are coming to Hard Rock Atlantic City on Feb. 18. With the sound of fiddles, accordions, and electric guitars, you can expect a night of foot-stomping, heart-pounding music that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

What: Valentine’s Soul Jam Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino | Etess Arena When: Sunday, Feb. 18 Time: 7 p.m.

Website:www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com/event-calendar/valentines-soul-jam Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season of romance than at the Valentine's Soul Jam. From timeless classics to contem-

porary hits, the stage will be set on fire with soulful tunes that speak to the heart.

Who: The Harlem Globetrotters World Tour Where: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall When: Monday, Feb. 19 Time: 2 p.m.

Website:www.boardwalkhall.com/ events/detail/harlem-globetrotters-5 Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters’ global tour as they take the court with moments of extreme basketball innovation and unparalleled fan FUN! 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!

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February 15, 2024

Atlantic City Headliners

Friday, February 16

Tedeschi Trucks Band w/ Little Feat

▶8 p.m.

Cheers to Great Savings!

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena 311

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Ron White

▶8 p.m.

Borgata Event Center

Last Call! oon Sale Ends S

Saturday, February 17

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Official Tedeschi Trucks Band After Party feat. Dumpstaphunk

Saturday, March 16 ▶7 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock Kool & The Gang

▶8 p.m.

▶8 p.m.

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Katt Williams: The Dark Matter Tour

▶8 p.m.

Selection of Beers & Whiskey also on Sale Holiday Gift Basket Clearance

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall Scott Keo

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theatre at Resorts

Sunday, February 18

Disco Night Fever Mania

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Starship feat. Mickey Thomas

▶8 p.m.

caramel and a touch of oak. The palate has just a touch of sweetness, followed by spice, toasted nut and oak flavors, with a robust finish."

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Friday, March 8

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Borgata Event Center Voyage: Celebrating the Music of Journey

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Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Friday, March 22 Breaking Benjamin

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Yacht Rock Revue

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Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

On-Sale This Week

An Evening with John Legend

▶Fri. June 21, 8 p.m.

Borgata Event Center Foghat

▶Sat. May 18, 9 p.m.

Golden Nugget Atlantic City Eric D’Alessandro

▶Sat. June 29, 7 & 10 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock Kathleen Madigan: The Potluck Party

One Vision of Queen feat. Marc Martel

▶Fri. July 19, 9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Jubin Nautiyal

▶Sun. July 28, 7:30 p.m.

▶9 p.m.

▶8:30 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Saturday, March 9 Tamia & Joe

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Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Napoleon Dynamite Live

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

36

Superstar Theater at Resorts Jerry Seinfeld

Saturday, March 23

▶7 p.m.

Saturday, March 2

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Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Tony Orlando

Sound Waves at Hard Rock Valentines Soul Jam

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The Music Box at Borgata

“Complex aromas of vanilla, aged fruit

Bert Kreischer

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Including Traveller Bourbon Whiskey

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Flogging Molly

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Motown Forever

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Tedeschi Trucks Band w/ Little Feat

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Friday, March 15

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▶Sat. May 4, 8 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom Ms. Pat

▶Sat. May 11, 8 p.m.

Harrah’s Atlantic City

All tickets on-sale Friday, Feb. 16, 10 a.m.

February 15, 2024

Malbec wine: Is it native to Argentina?

By David Setley

I

tasted Malbec wine from Argentina for the first time nearly 15 years ago.

I was amazed at how rich, smooth, and delicious it was, and reasonably priced! I spoke with wine friends about the varietal, but it seemed no one had heard of it. I felt like I had discovered the next big thing in wine! Fast forward to today and Malbec is nearly synonymous with Argentina. But did it originate there? Join me while I pour a glass and dig into a little detective work.

Perhaps the most significant person to impact the Argentinean winemaking industry is the French agricultural engineer, Michel Aimé Pouget. It all began in 1853 when the Governor of the Cuyo (central) region, Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, a man who would later become the President of Argentina, sent a proposal to the national Argentinean government to develop and expand the winemaking industry. Pouget was hired as a viticulture specialist.

February 15, 2024

Pouget founded the first agricultural school and vine nursery in Mendoza, Argentina. He introduced numerous French grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Malbec, from cuttings he brought from France. A number of these grapes adapted very well to the terroir and produced wines of excellent concentration and quality. Malbec, or “la uva Francesa,” (the French Grape) as it was known in Argentina, adapted the best. In fact, Malbec plantings grew significantly throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries and expanded to many wine regions throughout the country. Michel Aimé Pouget is now known as the Father of Malbec in Argentina and the date he was hired, April 17, is celebrated internationally each year as World Malbec Day. Let’s return to France for a few minutes though, where Pouget collected his clippings before heading to South America.

Evidence suggests that Pouget collected his vines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, and the Sud Ouest (South-West) wine regions of France.

Malbec is one of the five principal red grapes of Bordeaux and is the dominant red grape in a subregion of Sud Ouest, called Cahors.

Yes, it appears that France is the true birthplace of Malbec. If you’d like to try a French Malbec, reach for the Château La Caminade - Mission La Caminade Cahors, for a wine that is 85% Malbec and 15% Merlot.

Origins aside, let’s head back to Argentina to continue our Malbec exploration.

Malbec vineyards were actually declining in Argentina by the early 2000s before Malbec wines experienced a surge of appreciation in international markets. Interestingly enough, it was about this time that I first experienced Malbec. Malbec quickly became Argentina’s most exported wine and, in a relatively short time, changed the international reputation of Argentine wine.

No longer was the country seen as a producer of low-quality wines. Today, 75% of the world’s Malbec comes from Argentina and the wine accounts for 40% of all the wine produced in that country.

Malbec, a grape born in France, found its perfect terroir in the South American country. As the French say, “terroir is everything!” Malbec is grown in many regions of Argentina, and each produces wine with unique characteristics.

In Patagonia, the southernmost region of Argentina, the wine is lighter in color, body, and aroma, but still retains the rich black cherry fruit flavors and notes of tobacco and leather. A great example is the Fabre Montmayou Patagonia Malbec.

In the central region, Mendoza is the most prolific producer of Malbec, accounting for 80% of the nation’s production.

Bodega Catena Zapata-Catena Malbec Mendoza is an outstanding example. This

region is warmer, so the resulting flavors are bolder. Rich blackberry and plum are the dominant fruit flavors and the earthy notes of tobacco and leather are more intense.

In the Northern region of Calchaqui Valley, the Bodega El Esteco-Don David Reserve Malbec is my personal favorite, and it has nothing to do with the name.

The further north one goes in the Southern Hemisphere, the warmer the climate.

Malbec, a late-harvest grape, takes full advantage of the longer growing season to produce a deliciously rich and supple wine. The dark fruit flavors balanced by the leather, earth and smoke notes make for a perfect example of this area’s wine.

I hope you enjoyed my investigation into Malbec. If you haven’t tried this wine, or it has been a while, please consider my recommendations. Better yet, grab a bottle of each to compare the impact of terroir.

As always, contact me with any questions at dsetley@passionvines.com, or stop into the Somers Point store. Until next time, happy wining!

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

37

One-of-a-kind Amada brings a taste of Spain to Ocean Casino Resort

By Chuck Darrow

T

here is no shortage of firstclass restaurants among Atlantic City’s nine casinos, as some of the East Coast’s finest dining rooms sit under local gaming hall roofs. But with a few rare exceptions (including Asian-focused Nobu at Caesars Atlantic City and Kuro at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City) they pretty much fall under one of two categories: steakhouse or Italian.

And then there’s Amada at Ocean Resort.

Located adjacent to the casino floor on the Boardwalk end of the sprawling pleasure dome, the flagship brand of Philadelphia-based “Iron Chef” champ/James Beard Award winner Jose Garces’ restaurant em-

38

pire stands out in the crowded AyCee eatery landscape for several reasons: For starters, its menu is overwhelmingly focused on Spanish cuisine and emphasizes tapas, or small plates, the traditional Spanish way of dining. Then there’s its status as the only high-end salon that remains from 2012, when what is now Ocean debuted as the ill-fated Revel. Next, the room boasts a wait staff whose knowledge of, and passion for, food is as intense as any The view from Amada at Ocean Casino Resort I’ve encountered in Atlantic City—or anywhere else. And if all this tions. “It’s really a tribute to him and his approach to the partnership.” isn’t enough, its view of the ocean, beach and Boardwalk is as good as According to Schultz, one key to it gets.

Amada’s success is the amount of That Amada is the only survivor of leeway afforded patrons. Rather than the two-year fiasco that was Revel simply be served whatever is spelled out on the menu, guests have a good certainly isn’t a coincidence. degree of input when placing orders.

“It was hands down an easy decision to extend our agreement “You can customize your selection and partnership with Chef Garces,” in so many different ways,” she said, offered Becky Schultz, Ocean’s adding “in Amada…there are so many great things to choose from, and you vice-president of restaurant operareally can get a great idea of what the restaurant's about.”

In general, upscale casino restaurants are, first and foremost, marketing tools used to keep high-stakes gamblers coming back to a property.

But, noted Schultz, Amada transcends the high-roller, repeat-business blueprint that is the industry standard.

“It's a fantastic ‘destination’ restaurant,” she said. “People come to Amada for Amada. It's not just hotel guests who happen to be staying on property, looking for something to eat. A perfect example of that was [during a recent weekend] when we did not have a show, yet we had a preshow crowd that was at the Amada bar for quite a while until the show started over at Hard Rock.

“It's definitely a destination venue. It's our only restaurant that has a celebrity Iron Chef partner in Chef Garces. So there's just so many great ways to approach the marketing of this restaurant, and it really has brand recognition in the Atlantic City market and South Jersey.”

As for the menu of the room that boasts a sleek, sophisticated design with atmospheric lighting, General Manager John Huff explained it doesn’t originate in one specific region of Spain.

“We have the Gambas al Aljillo [shrimp], which are more Galician, or Northwest-Spain, whereas our Pata-

tas Bravas [a potato dish] are closer to a Catalonian style,” he said. “We also have dishes from northeast Spain where Barcelona is. Our wine list sort of reflects that too, with a good balance of the various regions of Spain.”

Interestingly, Huff divulged that many of the dishes on the menu at Amada (which means “beloved” or “loved”), weren’t necessarily conceived by Garces, but are based on recipes he got from his grandmother.

Perhaps the best way to experience Amada is via the La Mesa de Jose ($95 per person) tasting menu in which the kitchen prepares a variety of small plates.

Roughly 10 to 12 items are included (the amount varies depending on the size of the items ordered), and patrons are welcome to leave its ingredients entirely up to the chef, or customize it to their tastes (for instance, on a recent visit, I insisted the offerings include Pulpo a la Gallega (sautéed octopus) and the Cana de Cabra, a selection of cheeses served with cherry and fig marmalade, both of which are personal favorites).

Whatever Spanish dish you order, you can rest assured you’ll encounter flavors you’ve never before experienced, and that is really what makes Amada such a singular restaurant. But those whose tastes aren’t quite as adventurous/sophisticated need not worry as Amada has that covered as well: The “from the grill” portion of the menu features traditional steakhouse fare including scallops, chicken and both porterhouse and (Waygu) New York strip steak.

And then there are the lamb chops, which is my favorite entrée to be found on any casino dining-room menu But there are plenty of steakhouses in town at which you can satisfy that particular jones, including the casino’s own Ocean Steak. Amada is for those looking for something far different.

As Huff put it, “We’re just trying to bring together all the different elements and give our Atlantic City guests a little slice of Spain that they wouldn't otherwise come upon.”

For more, go to theoceanac.com/ restaurants/amada.

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

February 15, 2024

Professional Chefs gala, Borgata whiskey lunch, 'Napoleon Dynamite' top things to do, and Schulson makes move to Ocean

By Scott Cronick

L

ots to catch up on with some great stuff happening in the area. Hopefully this tidbit column will catch you up on what you should make plans for in the near future, while also paying homage to a lost member of the culinary scene.

Pro Chefs celebrate 50 years More than a dozen years ago, The Professional Chefs Association of South Jersey led by David Goldstein asked me to host their Presidents Charity Scholarship Bowl.

I was flattered. And I have hosted that event since then more than I haven’t. So, after a hiatus for COVID-19, I am so happy that the big event is back … and it’s going to be one for the ages.

This year is particularly special as the chapter celebrates the 50th anniversary of the event, which started a few years after the chapter’s formation.

Stepping up to the plate for the over-the-top gala is Renault Winery.

Helmed by Corporate Director of Cu-

February 15, 2024

linary Joseph Laporte, the Sunday, Feb. 25, black-tie party with feature a 90-minute, eye-popping cocktail hour with open bar that is worth the $165 admission itself, followed by a four-course dinner paired with Renault wines and music by the Dane Anthony Band.

“The association means a lot to me,” said LaPorte, a former chef of the year who received that award nearly 30 years ago as executive chef at Tropicana in Atlantic City. “It has been a big part of my life and my career. When you are coming up as a sous chef, you are honored to be invited to this. It’s always been the big event of the year for chefs and everyone in the industry.”

The beauty of this event is that while there will be the who’s-who of the South Jersey culinary world, it is open to the public.

The lavish cocktail hour will feature multiple themed stations with international foods and flavors along with amazing cocktails. The dinner will include everything from seafood to steak, salad and more. “ Ever y thing is a secret,” LaPorte said. “But I guarantee it’s going to be an awesome night. Past events have been themed in certain ways, so we are going to really focus on paying attention and honoring that 50-year milestone.”

Guests will be able to witness firsthand what Renault owners Josh and Melanie McCallan have done to the property, including the food and beverage program that has dramatically improved under LaPorte and his team.

“Our passion at Renault is making the wine and bringing people to a beautiful property,” LaPorte said.

“When Josh and his wife bought this about five years ago, they put a lot of passion and a ton of money into it, and it has developed into an incredible place. It’s not just a venue, it’s a destination. It takes a lot of passion to be a top resort runner.”

↘Continued on 40

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↘Continued from 39 Guests will also be treated to an unbelievable dessert display, and Goldstein and the association will present awards to chefs including Chef of the Year, Lifetime Achievement, Pastry Chef and Community Service.

Of course, guests can also help the association raise money to perform charitable works in the area, including feeding more than a million meals to those in need.

“Everyone can expect and unbelievable evening,” said Goldstein, the president of the chapter. “And they are supporting a great organization with a rich history. We give out culinary scholarships, always have money for chefs in need, pay for our chapter

meetings with educational presentations, certifications, community services, and we have fed 450 veterans at the Vineland Veterans Memorial Nursing Home for 12 years, while assisting the Community Food Bank and Let Us Eat Please for the Captain’s Table.”

LaPorte said he and Renault are happy to get the chapter scholarship balls restarted, especially for its golden anniversary. “ Ever yone looks forward to it,” LaPorte said. “The day af ter ever y chefs ball, everyone looks forward to next year … who’s going to do it and how they can top the last one. It’s a show, it’s a party!”

(The Professional Chefs Association of South Jersey’s 50th Annual Presidents Scholarship Ball is 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25, at Renault Winery, 72 Bremen Ave., Egg Harbor City. For tickets, call 609-432-2744 or go to ACFPCASJ. com.com)

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40

Schulson coming to Ocean Casino My friend and amazing restaurateur Michael Schulson has officially made the move across town to Ocean Casino Resort.

Schulson and his company Schulson Creative have teamed with Ocean for a partnership to bring two fine-casual concepts to Ocean’s culinary roster in the current Harper's space in the casino's lobby.

Opening later this year, Pearl & Mary Oyster Bar and Samuel’s at Ocean will be located on the lobby level across from The Park.

“Having opened my first restaurant in Atlantic City more than 15 years ago, it’s apropos to be returning to the shore to work with Ocean, starting with these two incredible projects,” said Michael Schulson. “The team at this property is first class, and I look

forward to opening additional concepts with them in the future.”

Pearl & Mary will present a stunning oyster bar offering bespoke dishes inspired by classic coastal favorites, including an assorted raw bar, mixed crudos, and refreshing cocktails. Pearl & Mary at Ocean will be the second iteration of the oyster bar, with the first location in Mid Town Village, Philadelphia.

Samuel’s is more than just a modern take on an all-day diner experience. It is a nod to Michael’s grandparents who immigrated to the Bronx and opened a kosher butcher shop, effectively serving as the celebrity chef’s first culinary influence.

Samuel’s American-Jewish inspired menu will include fresh-baked breads and pastries, scrumptious salads and signature sandwiches.

Schulson is one of Philadelphia’s most successful hospitality professionals and is the owner of Double Knot, DK Sushi, Independence Beer Garden, Sampan, Graffiti Bar, Harp & Crown, Giuseppe & Sons, Alpen Rose, Via Locusta, Prunella, Pearl & Mary and his newest concept, Bar Lesieur.

“We are thrilled to welcome Pearl & Mary and Samuel’s into Ocean’s portfolio of dining venues as we venture into a long-term partnership with Michael Schulson,” said Ocean General Manager Bill Callahan.

Both Pearl & Mary and Samuel’s at Ocean are expected to open before Summer 2024 in the current Harper’s and Sky Café spaces. Harper’s award-winning brunch options will move to the Makai space, which will close, near Starbucks.

Since Schulson is one of my favorite chefs, my wife and I will be there with bells on when he returns officially this summer. Hopefully you will, too!

Go to the OceanAC.com for more details.

Savor Borgata event at Borgata’s B Prime Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa continues its amazing culinary tradition of Savor Borgata events later this month with an awesome whiskey-infused luncheon that is certainly worth checking out.

Water Into Whiskey will take place 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at its acclaimed B Prime Steakhouse. The exclusive event with limited seating is designed to celebrate Manhattan Week with B Prime’s exclusive single barrel bottling Angel’s Envy Bourbon.

Led by B Prime’s talented food and beverage team, including Chef Howard Stilianessis, guests will explore the science behind exceptional

February 15, 2024

bourbon in this unique, hands-on proofing seminar that is followed by an extraordinary lunch that will be paired with Angel’s Envy whiskies.

Courses include: American wagyu beef carpaccio with Burgundy truffle oil, shaved horseradish, arugula and extra virgin olive oil; Surf-N-Turf featuring pan-seared dayboat scallops with charred rib cap and root vegetable medley and simple mashed potato with veal reduction and Bearnaise sauce; and Milk & Cookies, Angels Envy Bourbon vanilla milkshake with peanut butter pecan cookies.

The $99 price tag also includes each guest leaving with a personal-sized bourbon to recreate the experience at home, so it’s a super value.

(Water Into Whiskey will take place 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa’s B Prime Steakhouse. Tickets are $99 and can be purchased at TheBorgata.com.)

Napoleon Dynamite Live at Ocean It’s like a movie dream coming true.

One of my all-time favorite movies, “Napoleon Dynamite,” will come to Ocean Casino Resort for a full screening, three of its main actors and a whole lot of nonsense 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 9, at Ovation Hall.

The goofy, hilarious, independent flick will celebrate its 20th anniversary with “Napoleon Dynamite Live,” which will feature the flick and a lively, freewheeling discussion with cast members Jon Heder (Napoleon), Jon Gries (Uncle Rico) and Efren Ramirez (Pedro), who created three unforgettable characters that shaped cinema.

The night will feature a Q&A, comedy improv and more.

So, if you wanna know if chickens have large talons, learn more about LaFawnduh, want a dang quesadilla, find out if Tina the fat lard was easy to get to come to dinner and if you want to get a girlfriend with your nunchuck, bow-hunting and computer hacking skills, check out “Napoleon Dynamite Live” at Ocean Casino Resort.

I know I will be there, will you? (“Napoleon Dynamite Live” happens 8 p.m. Saturday, March 9, at Ocean Casino Resort’s Ovation Hall.

Tickets start at an affordable $29 at TheOceanAC.com.)

Naomi’s Café owner passes Another one has gone way too young.

Melinda Schriver, the former owner of Naomi’s Café, a former breakfast and lunch spot off Tilton Road in Northfield, passed from health complications earlier this week.

I knew Melinda very well and worked with her extensively when she first opened Naomi’s with little to no restaurant experience. I was introduced to her by longtime friend Coby Frier, who asked me to help a friend get started in the business with her new place. I was more than happy to do so.

A former Borgata Babe, Schriver opened Naomi’s – named after her daughter – and learned quickly how tough the business was. But she persevered, went through numerous chefs and menu changes and grew the business to the point where she had to expand to the adjacent space next door for an additional dining room.

The food was always good, but it was Schriver’s personality that kept customers like me engaged. She was one of the first in the area to start a truly over-the-top gourmet coffee menu, and she actually started the restaurant to spend more time with her children, which is why she closed after lunch.

She did everything she could to succeed. She did our very first Wing Wars event with Atlantic City Weekly, she would come on the radio regularly with me, and I would write about her restaurant as often as I could. I hope I lived up to my word that I would do what I could to help Naomi’s succeed.

Naomi’s was a family affair, a place where her friends and family worked,

including her father running errands when the place first opened. It was a special spot.

But, Schriver had to overcome a lot of personal issues and grief, including the closing of the restaurant and the death of her son in a car crash. Melinda – or Mel as friends called her - just never seemed the same after that.

How could she be?

Some didn’t know this, but Schriver could actually cook. Her Southern fried chicken and mac and cheese were incredible, as were some other things she would occasionally invite me in to sample.

Here’s to Mel, who will be missed by all who knew her!

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.

ORDER

SO MERS PO INT & EG G HARBO R TO WNSHIP

February 15, 2024

41

Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, February 15

Atlantic City Council Oak Lounge Sam Eldebs 5:30 – 9 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino DJ Neek 8 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Dane Anthony 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Garden State Radio 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk XO Bar at Resorts Karaoke with Cowboy Kevin 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Karaoke Hosted by Mike Dempsey 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Gregory’s Brandon Ireland 6 – 8 p.m.

900 Shore Rd. Queen Jayne’s Cosmic Charlie 6 – 9 p.m.

264 New Rd. Ventnor Ventnor Coffee Open Mic w/ Pete Glaze 6:30 – 9 p.m.

108 N. Dorset Ave.

Friday, February 16

Absecon Reddog’s Hi Point Pub Live Karaoke 8 p.m. 5 N. Shore Rd. Atlantic City 1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino Kristina Pruitt 6 p.m. Jeremy Oren 9:15 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Anchor Rock Club Kerryn Feehan 8 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Council Oak Lounge Paula Johns Trio 6 – 9:30 p.m. DJ 10 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Hard Rock Café Dueling Pianos 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Isn’t It Always 7 p.m. Goodman Fiske 11 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Lisa Bouchelle 6 – 10 p.m. Big Bang Baby 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Dane Anthony Band 5 – 8:30 p.m.

The Benjamins 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Wave at Golden Nugget Separate Ways The Band: Journey Tribute 9 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Yard at Bally’s DJ Freezie 7 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino Indelible Groove Trio 9:30 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Wild Wild West Stealing Savannah 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

DJ Vito G 8:30 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.

2100 Pacific Ave. XO Bar at Resorts Rick Stevens 5 – 8 p.m. DJ Gary 8 p.m. – 2 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk Egg Harbor Township The Roost Pub & Grill Tony & Jimmy 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr. Margate Bocca Irish Goodbye 7 – 10 p.m. 7805 Ventnor Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Twisted Livin Duo 7:30 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

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CHICKEN MARSALA 18

over fresh fettucini in marinara sauce

over garlic mashed potatoes & grilled asparagus

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8 OZ HANGER STEAK 21

BACON WRAPPED MEAT LOAF 21

over garlic mashed potatoes & grilled asparagus

over garlic mash & asparagus topped with mushroom gravy

CHICKEN FRANCAISE 18 over fresh fettucini in a white wine lemon butter sauce

SALISBURY STEAK 18 over garlic mashed potatoes & grilled asparagus with mushroom gravy

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SAUSAGE & RICE STUFFED PEPPER 18 topped with cheddar cheese over mashed potato and grilled asparagus

DESSERT A LA CARTE CHOCOLATE MOUSSE CAKE 8

Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Brandon Ireland Band 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Josie Kelly’s The Ashcats 8:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd.

Saturday, February 17

Atlantic City 1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino Elisa Carlson 6 p.m. Dom Martino 9:15 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Anchor Rock Club Billy Walton Band w/ Toni Teschner Band 10:30 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Council Oak Lounge Vahe Sarkissian Trio 6 – 9:30 p.m. DJ 10 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Hard Rock Café Dueling Pianos 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Megan Knight Duo 7 p.m. Yani 11 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Adam Holcombe Trio 5 – 9 p.m. Deck Band 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall Vertigo Breeze 8 – 11 p.m. 133 S. Tennessee Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Night Anthem 5 – 8:30 p.m. 3AM Tokyo 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Royce Social Hall Justin Moreno 9 p.m. 2831 Pacific Ave. The Yard at Bally’s DJ Kevin Kong 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. Kicking Sunrise 9 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino Aftershock 9:30 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Wild Wild West Steal the Sky 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

DJ Aiden Scott 8:30 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.

2100 Pacific Ave. XO Bar at Resorts Anthony Della Barba 5 – 8 p.m. DJ Gary 8 p.m. – 2 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk Margate Bocca Gina Cat 7:30 – 10:30 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Matt Adams 7:30 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

February 15, 2024

Absecon Reddog’s Hi Point Pub Acoustic Wednesdays 8 – 11 p.m. 5 N. Shore Rd. Atlantic City Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Michael Stevens 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Kicking Sunrise 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Margate Bocca Bob Sterling & The Bocca Boys 7 – 10 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Open Mic Night hosted by Blue Eagle 7 – 11 p.m.

450 Bay Ave. Gregory’s Tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series 7 – 8:30 p.m.

900 Shore Rd. Events subject to change.

Atlantic City Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Patty & Bugzy 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave.

February 15, 2024

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Tuesday, February 20

Restaurant & Pizzeria

Wednesday, February 21

Monday, February 19

Atlantic City Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Red 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Jexxa 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk

LaPizzatega

MAPLE SALMON over sun-dried tomato goat cheese risotto

12 OZ SIRLOIN

over mashed potato and asparagus, topped with caramelized mushrooms and onions.

BRAISED SHORT RIBS

over mashed potato and grilled asparagus, topped with Bleu cheese cream and sauteed mushroom ragu

WEDNESDAY 2 /14 Phil Stocker 5:30-8:30

FRIDAY 2 /16 Andy Berlin 5:30-8:30

3 - Courses APPETIZER ENTREE DESSERT

$35

SMALL

Atlantic City Council Oak Lounge Sarah Crowell 5:30 – 9 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Kelsey’s Tony Day & Across the Globe 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 1545 Pacific Ave. Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Adam Holcombe Duo 7 p.m. Liquid A 11 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget 3AM Tokyo Duo 6 – 9 p.m. Megan Knight Band 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Grooveheart 4 – 7:30 p.m. Stealing Savannah 8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Yard at Bally’s DJ Vito G 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino Yani 9:30 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Wild Wild West Sean Patrick & The Alibis 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. DJ Aiden Scott 8:30 p.m. – 2:30 a.m. 2100 Pacific Ave. Margate Bocca Mitchell Faber 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 7805 Ventnor Ave. Millville Levoy Theatre Twitty and Lynn: A Salute to Conway and Loretta 3 p.m. 126-130 N. High St. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Danny Eyer Band 3 – 7 p.m. 450 Bay Ave.

...When nothing else will do!!!

SOUP SALAD HEART SHAPED CHEESE RAVIOLI

SWEET

Sunday, February 17

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Big Bang Baby 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Somers Point Josie Kelly’s DJ Special K 5 – 9 p.m. 908 Shore Rd.

ENTREES

Northfield Taproom at Atlantic City Country Club Ralph Michaels 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 1 Leo Fraser Dr. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Doug Jennings 4 – 7 p.m. Turtle Heads Band 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Gregory’s Live DJ 9 p.m. 900 Shore Rd.

HEART SHAPED STRAWBERRY MACAROONS

tomato fennel sauce

filled with strawberry ganache

43

Twin Poets bring double the culture to Atlantic Cape

By Raymond Tyler

W hen twins walk into a room together, it tends to create a sense

of excitement. There is something unique about the similarity. Even when the twins are not identical, the bond seems to fill the air with a curious aura.

When the twins are in fact identical, the curiosity almost becomes celebrity. The twins become the most interesting and talked about people in the room.

Delaware natives Nnamdi Chukwuocha and Albert Mills are more

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than just another set of identical twins. The brothers have made a name for themselves as the Twin Poets. They are known in cultural circles nationally as artists, activists, politicians and icons of culture in the world of poetry and the spoken word.

On Thursday, Feb. 8, the Twin Poets returned to the Mays Landing Campus of Atlantic Cape Community College for an evening of poetry and culture.

Even before taking the stage, the two Delaware poets laureate were connecting with Jersey friends, meeting young people, doing on-the-spot interviews and helping to set up their book table.

When they are on a program, the Twin Poets share the magic of the spoken word, adding to the legacy of oral traditional storytelling.

The story of 53-year-old brothers Nnamdi Chukwuocha and Albert Mills also includes numerous years connecting with families as social workers. Today both serve their communities as politicians and write bills/laws to affect change (when not on stage).

Nnamdi Chukwuocha serves as a representative in the Delaware General Assembly, and Albert Mills is currently serving on the Wilmington City Council. Both brothers have spent decades affecting change with more than just poetry, and both brothers served in the Army.

As the Twin Poets, they take the stage and set free words and stories.

When they perform poems such as “Dreams Are Illegal,” the two have a

SALE

Twin Poets Nnamdi Chukwuocha, left, and Albert Mills returned to the Mays Landing Campus of Atlantic Cape Community College Thursday, Feb. 9, for a Black History Month performance. back-and-forth energy that is exciting.

They held the crowd captive while discussing children’s dreams vs. the realities young people face today. The poems are enjoyable for their execution and delivery. The poetry and performance deliver on entertainment, urging people to think and to love.

After leaving the stage the Twin Poets again met with the people who had just taken a poetic ride with them.

The Twin Poet experience on stage lasted about an hour, but the connections with people from South Jersey will last a lifetime. The story of the Twin Poets is still a wonderful work in progress and nowhere near the final stanza.

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

Feb 6th-Feb 15th

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ALL YOUR SMOKIN & VAPIN NEEDS 801 TILTON RD. NORTHFIELD 444 W. ROUTE 70, MARLTON February 15, 2024

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Watch The Flyers and Sixers on 23 TVs!

Betsy’s Backyard bringing blues to South Jersey music fans Tune In, Turn On

By Doug Deutsch

When you want to hear live rock music in our South Jersey area,

there’s usually a number of choices for hearing both original and cover bands every week.

For blues music enthusiasts, however, the choices are a bit slimmer here at the Jersey Shore, both in Atlantic City’s casinos and various nightclubs.

Enter Betsy’s Backyard/Inside Edition, an annual concert series presented by area blues enthusiast, Betsy Lynn Paisley.

Now Serving

Second Location

THURSDAY - FEB 15 Sindi Raymond Band 4pm-7pm FRIDAY - FEB 16 Brandon Ireland Band 8pm-12am SATURDAY - FEB 17 Doug Jennings 4pm-7pm Turtle Heads Band 8pm-12am SUNDAY - FEB 18 Danny Eyer Band 3pm-7pm FRIDAY - FEB 23 Steve Moore & MIA Band 8pm-12am SATURDAY - FEB 24 Doug Jennings 4pm-7pm Radio Revolution Band 8pm-12am SUNDAY - FEB 25 3 Suspects Band 3pm-7pm

Now Serving Pizza Happy Hour Food & Drink Specials Mon.-Thurs.

TRIVIA TUESDAY NIGHTS OPEN MIC WEDNESDAY NIGHTS KARAOKE THURSDAY NIGHTS

ENJOY OUR OUTDOOR DECK

450 Bay Avenue, Somers Point www.carolinesnj.com 609-927-9007 46

OVERLOOKING THE BAY

“Betsy’s Backyard is a gathering of friends, new and old, young and notso young, for the purpose of listening to music and enjoying a meal together,” said Paisley, a long-time blues music lover and member of Women in Blues, among other professional groups.

“We are lucky enough to get both world-renown traveling and local artists to share the makeshift stage, while two extra-large dogs participate (she laughs. I have seen the dogs up close; they are huge, but lovable and friendly). The musical artists become the focus of our attention and are appreciated for their talent and mostly original songs.”

There’s no TV, no loud conversations but seating times are important,she said.

“Everyone here comes to appreciate the talent being presented. But it is an appreciation of culinary skills and or creativity, too. An early night from beginning to end – 6 to approximately 10:30 p.m.,” Paisley said.

Betsy, who is a regular attendee at events such as the International Blues Challenge in Memphis every January, has featured some big-time artists at her Betsy’s Backyard in the past, including several of my own current and/or past clients such as dynamic New Jersey-based vocalist/ keyboardist Eliza Neals.

Her 2024 spring lineup looks to be just as exciting, kicking off with award-winning vocalist, Kat Riggins (pictured) on March 27, with opening act Jim Howell.

The schedule includes: April 9, area favorites Geri Mingori and Jeff Caraway; April 19, North Jersey’s popular Blues People (who were semi finalists at the recent 2024 IBC and have just released a tight new album, “The Skin I’m In,” with special guest, Matrix); April 25, singers/songwriters Brody Bond and Jody McGowan; May 16, national act the Dave Kelller Band, with local musician Chip Rishell opening; May 25, Norman Taylor and Blue Soul along with Jim Howell.

Seating for all shows is always at 6 p.m.; admission is $20 in advance, $25 at the door and includes a potluck dinner, so if you’re planning on attending bring something tasty to eat because you’ll be fed there, too. Contact Betsy Lynn Paisley on Facebook Messenger for tickets and location info. https://www.facebook. com/betsy.paisley/ Remember Jones Does Amy Winehouse at The Claridge: One of the more interesting bookings

Kat Riggins will perform March 27 in the Betsy’s Backyard series. in Atlantic City this Presidents’ Day weekend (in addition to the awesome Tedeschi Trucks/Little Feat twonight engagement Feb. 16 and 17 at Hard Rock Casino) is “Back To Back to Black: An Amy Winehouse Celebration” at The Claridge’s Celebrity Theatre, featuring enigmatic frontman Remember Jones, reimagining the entire Winehouse album with a 12-piece orchestra.

Jones, no stranger to New Jersey audiences, was recently named “One of the Most Influential Figures in New Jersey” (Asbury Park Press). Ever wonder what Winehouse’s songs might sound like as interpreted by a male singing them? Here’s your chance to find out. This event is also the Atlantic City Theatre Company’s Fundraising Gala. Tickets/info: https://atlanticcitytheatrecompany. com/actc-gala-featuring-remember-jones.

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

February 15, 2024

Largest IMAX Screen in NJ

Leather Reclining Seats 331 Tilton Rd. Northfield (609) 830-3566 Fri 16

February 117 Min

6:00p

6:00p

PG13

12:30p 3:30p 6:25p 9:25p

12:30p 3:30p 6:25p 9:25p

12:30p 3:30p 6:25p 9:25p

12:30p 3:30p 6:25p 9:25p

12:30p 3:30p 6:25p 9:25p

12:30p 3:30p 6:25p 9:25p

12:30p

PG13

12:10p 1:10p 2:35p 3:35p 5:00p 7:25p 8:30p 9:50p

12:10p 1:10p 2:35p 3:35p 5:00p 7:25p 8:30p 9:50p

12:10p 1:10p 2:35p 3:35p 5:00p 7:25p 8:30p 9:50p

12:10p 1:10p 2:35p 3:35p 5:00p 7:25p 8:30p 9:50p

12:10p 1:10p 2:35p 3:35p 5:00p 7:25p 8:30p 9:50p

12:10p 1:10p 2:35p 3:35p 5:00p 7:25p 8:30p 9:50p

12:10p 1:10p 2:35p

R

12:05p 2:30p 4:55p 7:20p 9:50p

12:05p 2:30p 4:55p 7:20p 9:50p

12:05p 2:30p 4:55p 7:20p 9:50p

12:05p 2:30p 4:55p 7:20p 9:50p

12:05p 2:30p 4:55p 7:20p 9:50p

12:05p 2:30p 4:55p 7:20p 9:50p

12:05p 2:30p

PG13

12:00p 2:20p 4:40p 7:10p 9:30p

12:00p 2:20p 4:40p 7:10p 9:30p

12:00p 2:20p 4:40p 7:10p 9:30p

12:00p 2:20p 4:40p 7:10p 9:30p

12:00p 2:20p 4:40p 7:10p 9:30p

12:00p 2:20p 4:40p 7:10p 9:30p

12:00p 2:20p

PG13

1:00p 4:00p 7:00p 9:45p

1:00p 4:00p 7:00p 9:45p

1:00p 4:00p 7:00p 9:45p

1:00p 4:00p 7:00p 9:45p

1:00p 4:00p 7:00p 9:45p

1:00p 4:00p 7:00p 9:45p

1:00p 4:00p

PG

12:35p 2:45p 4:55p

12:35p 2:45p 4:55p

12:35p 2:45p 4:55p

12:35p 2:45p 4:55p

12:35p 2:45p 4:55p

12:35p 2:45p 4:55p

12:35p

MADAME WEB IMAX

99 Min

MIGRATION

138 Min

PG13

113 Min

R

7:15p 9:35p

7:15p 9:35p

7:15p 9:35p

7:15p 9:35p

7:15p 9:35p

7:15p 9:35p

PG

12:50p 3:35p 6:45p 9:20p

12:50p 3:35p 6:45p 9:20p

12:50p 3:35p 6:45p 9:20p

12:50p 3:35p 6:45p 9:20p

12:50p 3:35p 6:45p 9:20p

12:50p 3:35p 6:45p 9:20p

Sat 17

Sun 18

ORDINARY ANGELS ADVANCE SCREENING

6:00p 9:00p

THE BEEKEEPER

125 Min

Thu 22

6:00p

LISA FRANKENSTEIN

124 Min

Wed 21

6:00p

LAND OF BAD

109 Min

Tue 20

6:00p

BOB MARLEY ONE LOVE

121 Min

Mon 19

6:00p

ARGYLLE

115 Min

Sun 18

R

ANYONE BUT YOU VALENTINE ENCORE 147 Min

Sat 17

WONKA

12:50p

Newly Renovated 5211 Ventnor Ave. (609) 830-3566 Fri 16

February 147 Min

94 Min

Thu 22

2:00p 4:10p 7:00p

2:00p 4:10p 7:00p

2:00p 4:10p 7:00p

2:00p 4:10p 7:00p

2:00p 4:10p 7:00p

2:00p

PG13

1:50p 4:50p 7:10p

1:50p 4:50p 7:10p

1:50p 4:50p 7:10p

1:50p 4:50p 7:10p

1:50p 4:50p 7:10p

1:50p 4:50p 7:10p

1:50p

PG13

2:10p 4:40p 7:15p

2:10p 4:40p 7:15p

2:10p 4:40p 7:15p

2:10p 4:40p 7:15p

2:10p 4:40p 7:15p

2:10p 4:40p 7:15p

2:10p

MADAME WEB

THE BARN PART II

Wed 21

2:00p 4:10p 7:00p

BOB MARLEY ONE LOVE 124 Min

Tue 20

PG13

ARGYLLE

115 Min

Mon 19

NR

9:30p

Scan for ongoing schedule

Schedules Subject To Change - Info on Each Movie and Updated Schedules at www.Squaretheaters.com

Without Abraham Lincoln, there would be no United States

By Seth Grossman

I

n 1968, President Lyndon Johnson and Congress adopted the Uniform Monday Holiday Law and made Columbus Day a new national holiday. Washington’s Birthday is now part of ”Presidents Weekend” and no longer a national holiday on February 22. Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on February 12 is almost forgotten.

A study by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) found that only 9 percent of fourth graders correctly identified a photograph of Abraham Lincoln and could state two reasons for his importance.

This is a tragedy. Every American child should know that Abraham Lincoln was important and why. Like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln is a classic example of how one individual can change the course of history.

Had there been no George Washington or Abraham Lincoln, there would be no United States. Without the United States, there would be no democracy strong enough to defeat the Nazis and Japanese in World War II, or Communist Russia or China during the Cold War. Abraham Lincoln was born in 1809 in Indiana, nearly ten years after George Washington died in Virginia.

In his first known speech to a group of young people in 1838, 29 year old Abraham Lincoln recognized that his generation of Americans was lucky to be “in peaceful possession of the fairest portion of the earth” with “a system of political institutions” with more “civil and religious liberty” than any other nation in history. However, Lincoln feared Americans were in danger of losing everything because they were forgetting the principles of the people who created America.

At age 29, Abraham Lincoln was deeply committed to respect for the Constitution and laws of the United States. Lincoln also opposed slavery.

Lincoln believed that the enslavement of blacks in the South was an evil that violated natural law, and that would destroy America if it continued.

This was a problem for Lincoln.

Slavery was permitted by the U.S. Constitution and the laws and state constitutions of the southern states.

Lincoln’s genius was pursuing a consistent and non-violent way to end slavery, while still respecting our Constitution and laws.

Abraham Lincoln knew that America was created by our Declaration of Independence. That document clearly opposed slavery. It held these truths to be self-evident: “All men are all created

equal, and endowed by their Creator with certain ‘unalienable’ rights.

Abraham Lincoln also carefully examined letters and documents written by the Founding Fathers who signed our Declaration of Independence and framed our Constitution.

Lincoln found that most delegates who framed our Constitution in 1787 opposed slavery, and wrote the Constitution with its “ultimate extinction” in mind.

For example, most of them specifically voted for federal laws that banned slavery in the Northwest Territories in 1787, which ended the importation of new slaves after 20 years.

It seems likely that slavery was on the verge of gradually being abolished until Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin in 1793. Then cotton and slavery became too profitable to stop.

Lincoln knew that opponents of slavery did not and could not legally and constitutionally end slavery in the South. Lincoln did not support revolutions or slave rebellions in the southern states.

However, Lincoln did oppose the expansion of slavery into new territories like Kansas and Nebraska. He opposed the Dred Scott decision of the Supreme Court which allowed southerners to bring their slaves with them in and out

of any non-slave state or territory they wanted. Lincoln also helped form the Republican Party in 1854 to support these policies of containment.

Southern leaders agreed with Lincoln. They also knew that slavery would die out if it did not expand. When Lincoln was elected President and Republicans took control of both houses of Congress in 1860, the legislatures of eleven of the fifteen slave states immediately adopted resolutions stating that their states were no longer part of the United States.

At this point, Abraham Lincoln nor Congress still had no power under the Constitution to free any slaves.

However, on April 12, 1861, the South Carolina militia opened fire on federal soldiers on Fort Sumpter outside of Charleston. That began the Civil War. That war gave Union soldiers and President Lincoln, their commander-in-chief, the Constitutional right to free slaves.

Under military law, soldiers can seize “contraband” or property used by enemy soldiers. Since the Confederate Army used black slaves to bring them food, ammunition, and equipment, President Abraham Lincoln for the first time had the power under military law to “seize” those slaves as “contraband of war” and then free them.

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Cleaning tips for the unorganized

Family Corner

By Krystle J Bailey

V

alentine’s Day and the Super Bowl are behind us, which means spring has almost sprung. According to Phil, it’s coming sooner than usual this year. The smells of spring can only mean one thing: cleaning. It’s time to start removing the clutter and making room for the vibrancy that a new season brings.

I’ll be completely honest here: I’m not a naturally well-organized person.

The part they never told me about parenting is how often you’re forced to declutter your life and get rid of old clothes, toys, books, and more. It’s my least favorite task out of all the adulting tasks. Deciding what to give away, throw away, sell, keep, or tuck away in my box of things I just can’t get rid of is too much for my brain. Yet, spring reminds us that not everything can stay. The kids grow and the seasons change. In order to make room for the new abundance headed our way, we must make space.

Here are a few tips to make the job a little easier this year: 1. Create a digital artwork album.

Let’s face it: throwing away your

kids’ artwork is one of the ickiest jobs of parenting. You know you can’t keep everything, but something about dropping their lovingly designed projects in the trash just doesn’t feel right either. Instead of keeping everything, consolidate it with digital albums. Use a service such as Staples or Shutterfly to create beautifully crafted photo albums of your children’s artwork. Now, the art gallery of their youth can take up less space in your home and live on forever.

2. Use designated clutter buckets.

My kids are notorious for leaving odds and ends all over the house.

Designated clutter buckets are a way to encourage them to get their stuff put away while deciding what is important and what can be gotten rid of. Fill each bucket with the things left out of place and put a timeframe on the bucket. If the things aren’t put away with care within 24 hours, put the items in the “giveaway” bag instead.

3. Speak their language.

When it comes to getting the kids involved in the cleaning process, if there’s one thing I’ve found to be productive, it’s the importance of speak-

ing their language. I’ve learned that my oldest really enjoys checking off a long list of chores. It makes her feel accomplished. My son seems to only handle 1-2 tasks at a time. However, he finds joy in letting me know he’s completed the job and is ready for another one. Paying attention to how they’re motivated and assigning tasks accordingly for a little more peace during the cleaning process.

4. Set habit alarms.

I’ve never been good with making consistent chore charts in the home.

However, since technology has been introduced and I find myself paying for cell phone bills I never intended to, I have been using that to my advantage. In working with my teenager to

instill better habits, I’ve been having her set alarms on her phone as a reminder to do things like play with the dog, make her bed, and clean her bathroom. If the phone is going to exist in the house, find all the ways to put it to good use.

5. Incentivize everyone.

This includes yourself. Spring cleaning isn’t fun for most of us; just one of those things in life we find ourselves having to do. Incentivize everyone in the family to power through the job as quickly and efficiently as possible. Collect the change and take it to the bank, or plan a yard sale with everything you decide you don’t want to keep. Plan a family game night in the clean living room or make plans for a sleepover with friends after the house has been cleaned. Find something that brings you joy as a means of keeping the family motivation turned up enough for the job.

However you spend time cleaning for the season, remember that there is much to be thankful for. Try to find joy in each moment and gratitude for the little things along the way. As my dad often reminded me growing up, “Don’t sweat the small stuff, and it’s all small stuff.”

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Martin Luther King’s ties to South Jersey

By William Kelly

B

irmingham, Selma and Memphis are all cities associated with Martin Luther King, but now we have Camden and Maple Shade.

When Preservation New Jersey released its 2024 list of Top 10 endangered historic properties in the state, Martin Luther King’s Camden home was on top of the list.

I didn’t know Martin Luther King had any ties to South Jersey until I read the obituary of a Burlington County lawyer, W. Thomas McCann, which mentioned, almost in passing, that he once represented a Maple Shade bartender who was charged with civil rights violations for refusing to serve Martin Luther King and his friends.

The Maple Shade bar, called Mary’s Place, was located on a clover leaf intersection off of Route 73, so I went there and took some photos of the place which was closed and ready for demolition by the state Department of Transportation. I wrote about it in my blog, and shortly thereafter was contacted by Patrick Duff, a used car salesman and amateur rabble rouser who had stumbled on the

Maple Shade incident like I had while researching a different topic.

Duff asked me to meet him at the now vacant lot once occupied by Mary’s Place. I met him there, along with a reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer and a few of Duff’s friends.

Duff passed around a copy of the original complaint signed by “Michael King,” as MLK was then known, and three of his friends, against the owner/bartender of Mary’s Place, Ernest Nichols, a German veteran of World War I who refused to serve them one Sunday evening in 1950.

When they refused to leave and held a sit-in, Nichols took out a pistol, opened the door and shot it into the air. That was enough for King and his companions, who went to the Maple Shade Police Department and filed a complaint.

Nichols was arrested for a firearms violation and charged with a civil rights complaint, but the most amazing thing about the legal complaint is that King listed his address as 753 Walnut St., Camden, N.J. Now I grew up in Camden, the son of a Camden policeman, but I never heard of Martin Luther King, Jr. living there. I immediately plugged the address into the GPS on my phone

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and drove there. It was the left side of a duplex and boarded up, although the right side was occupied. The grounds were littered with bricks, broken glass and syringes, as it was apparently used as a drug house.

I took some photos and shortly thereafter The Inquirer reporter contacted me and asked if I had taken any photos. It was too dark by the time he got there, so I sent him some photos and one appeared in The Inquirer story the next day.

Duff obtained the current owner’s address and visited her. She acknowledged that it was her house and that it belonged to her father, a relative of King’s high school and college mate, Walter McCall, and indeed, they both lived there for a year while they attended the Crozer Theological Seminary in Philadelphia.

Duff had also accumulated some newspaper accounts of the Maple Shade court case, one of which called Mary’s Place “the bar that began a crusade.” Nichols was found guilty of the firearms violation, but the civil rights case was dismissed as it was a relatively new law and this was the first time it was brought to court.

Although the house and the documentation were presented to the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office, they refused to act on it for months, then awarded Stockton University a $30,000 grant to study its historical significance.

Their study caused some controversy when it concluded there was little historical significance to the house where Martin Luther King lived while attending Crozer Baptist Seminary, or the fact that he initiated his first civil rights case in Maple Shade while living there.

The political boss of Camden, Rep. Donald Norcross, however, took an interest, and when MLK’s close friend, Rep. John Lewis accepted a Freedom Foundation Award in Philadelphia, Norcross invited him to visit the Camden house where King once lived.

They cleaned up the house and grounds, closed off the street and put up a tent in front of the house.

While TV cameras ran, Lewis said

the house “should be preserved for future generations.”

Lewis, who has since passed away, said, “I would love to come here and visit and see an historic marker here and this place restored, and it will be a day of jubilation.”

Norcross also arranged for approximately $200,000 in federal funds to preserve the property, but the money got diverted to other programs. To this day the state Historic Preservation Office refuses to anoint the home with historic status so it can receive grants.

I have since learned of two other connections Martin Luther King had to South Jersey. King’s lawyer, Clarence Jones, who helped write and copyrighted the “I Have A Dream” speech, lived in Longport as a child. His parents were the cook and driver for the Lippincotts, the rich Quaker family that owned the Chalfonte Haddon Hall hotel, which became Resorts International, the first Atlantic City casino.

And in 1958, King gave an important speech on non-violence in the Civil Rights Movement to a conference of Quakers in Cape May, a speech that was tape recorded, but the recording has never surfaced publicly. It’s a treasure that is probably sitting on a shelf somewhere, but it was transcribed and was published in a Quaker magazine, so we know what he said.

Duff arranged for an historic marker to be placed at the Maple Shade location where Mary’s Place was located. He has compiled all the documentation on King’s living in Camden, and the Maple Shade bar incident and is preparing a book about it all. He also called attention to a Philadelphia church where King worshiped and now has official historical status in Pennsylvania.

Today it is quite clear that the Stockton University study misses the mark when it failed to acknowledge the significance of the Camden home, and that the state Historic Preservation Office is missing out on an opportunity to secure New Jersey’s place in the history of the Civil Rights Movement.

February 15, 2024

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105 Roosevelt Blvd • Marmora, NJ 08223 • 609-486-5073 www.ReichAssetManagement.com Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.

7 mistakes home sellers make Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

S

elling your home can be the beginning of an exciting new chapter, whether you are selling to take a new job in a new city, scaling down and moving to a retirement community, moving closer to your kids and grandchildren, or upgrading your space for your growing family. However, any of these scenarios come with their share of challenges.

Sometimes sellers create those challenges through problematic assumptions and actions. Clear communication with your real estate professional can help you make better decisions before you list, while your home is on the market, and all the way to the closing table. If you are looking for a more profitable and stressfree home sale process, avoid these common pitfalls.

1. For Sale By Owner (FSBO) According to statistics gathered by the

12-31-24

54

National Association of Realtors, about 11 percent of homes sold are sold without the help of a real estate agent or broker.

Those homes are typically sold for much less than their publicly listed counterparts, and without the marketing, or pricing information that would have helped them garner top dollar.

2. Intuitive Pricing Many sellers have “an idea” of what their home should be worth and how much it should sell for. However, frequently this type of sixth sense for home value doesn’t stand up to the scrutiny of the marketplace. Ultimately the market will decide what your home is worth and your agent has the comparable properties and buyer insights to help you determine the right price for listing your home.

3. Ignoring the Listing Agent Some sellers think of their listing agent’s professional advice as a mere suggestion. However, your agent has his or her finger on the pulse of the market, including repairs, updates, and upgrades that add value and get your home sold more quickly. Ignoring their contribution could mean more days on the market and a lower price at closing.

4. Failure to Declutter Similarly, while all agents suggest decluttering and depersonalizing the space before the home goes on the market, many

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homeowners choose not to follow through.

Indeed, some listing photos feature messy living spaces, crowded kitchen counters, and disorganized bedrooms. That is no way to attract buyers or top-dollar offers.

Get serious about decluttering your home. Pack away personal items and some of your photographs. Neutralize your space to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible.

5. Staying Home for Showings Many sellers think no one can convey the many highlights of their home like they can. They linger at open houses, leave reluctantly, or return early during private showings and chat it up with potential buyers. In reality, buyers really need to focus on their own thoughts, of envisioning themselves living in the home, keeping their own counsel as to their level of interest and discussing specific questions with their own agent.

6. Leaving No Room to Negotiate You may have a firm financial bottom line in mind, as well as a preferred closing timeline. You may be unwilling to budge on paying any of the buyer’s closing costs at closing, on home repairs, or on what happens to the appliances. Remember that negotiation is part of the home sale process. Being unwilling to accommodate any buyer needs may mean losing a potential sale. Look for areas on which you are

willing to negotiate in order to keep the sale moving forward.

7. Believing Under Contract Equals Sold There is no doubt that it is exciting when your home goes under contract, but that is just the beginning of the process.

There will be additional things to consider and decide along the way, as well as a home inspection and an appraisal process to navigate. Celebrate that your home is under contract, but keep your eye on the closing and be prepared for whatever challenges may come.

The bottom line is that preparation before you list your home, patience during the process, and the help of a qualified real estate professional can help facilitate the entire sale process. Keep both your goals and perspective at the forefront in order to navigate to a successful closing.

For more real estate advice and questions, call/text Elisa at 609-703-0432 or see 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!"

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February 15, 2024

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February 15, 2024

ACROSS 1. Falling out 5. Bottle top 8. Door fastener 12. Shoe emanation?

13. Staff note 14. Home to Buccaneers 15. Actress Spelling 16. Thor's father 17. Kidman's husband 18. *He served two nonconsecutive presidential terms 20. *JFK and RFK's relationship, abbr.

21. Foreword 22. J. Edgar Hoover Building org.

23. Pac-Man venue 26. Long and adventurous journey 30. Rudolph's Clarice, e.g.

31. Like life, according to some 34. Is it enough?

35. Jalisco plant 37. As opposed to rent 38. Grassy mound 39. Flat-top hill 40. *W in George H. W. Bush 42. Nicki Minaj's genre 43. Reusable painting pattern 45. Sacred songs 47. Horse control 48. Laughing predator 50. Gunk 52. *Nobel Peace Prize winning president 56. Social media button 57. Tangerine-grapefruit hybrid 58. Greek god of love 59. Cautious gambler 60. Trousers 61. Baltic capital 62. Port in Yemen 63. Follow ems 64. Not ever, poetically

DOWN 1. Campus drillers 2. One on a pedestal 3. Golfer's warning 4. "Jeopardy" question, e.g.

5. Closet wood 6. ____ acid 7. Body between England and U.S.?

8. *President who spent the shortest time in office 9. Orator's stand 10. Pampering establishments 11. J.M. Barrie's Peter 13. Like hot lava 14. Short and plump 19. Endow 22. *WW2 Pres.

23. *Thomas Jefferson was his VP 24. "Thesaurus" author 25. Cut it out 26. Sound on Old MacDonald's farm 27. Annoy a bedfellow 28. "Bravo! Bravo!" e.g.

29. Online reviews 32. Delivered by a mare 33. Hole punching tool 36. *a.k.a. Old Kinderhook 38. Danish money 40. Intelligent humor 41. Vomiting 44. Pressed beverage 46. Tap house 48. TV classic "_____'s Heroes" 49. Egg parts 50. Past tense of chide 51. Sand trap tool 52. Ill-mannered 53. Albany-Buffalo canal 54. Theater section 55. Russian ruler 56. #10 Down, sing.

See Solution on Page 58

55

Planned retirement doesn’t always go as planned

By Eric Reich

A

s a financial planner who specializes in retirement, I spend my days carefully planning out nearly every detail of a client’s future retirement. To clients, the most top-of-mind part of that plan is the actual date they want to retire. This is their focal point which they base many of their plans around.

The problem is when something happens that causes that planned date to change. When it does change, it often doesn’t change for positive reasons.

Factors to consider include: 1. Health This is the most common cause of a change in planned retirement date.

A decline in health can shorten your total retirement years. The best way to combat this is to retire earlier.

There are a host of issues with being forced to retire earlier than planned.

The inability to continue to save as

much for your retirement is likely the biggest issue. Early retirement stops the combination of contributions to retirement as well as the ability to let your assets compound. This combined effect can cause you to have far less investment savings than you originally planned, causing you to have to spend less during your overall retirement.

2. Forced Retirement Those who work for someone other than themselves are sometimes at the mercy of that employer keeping them around until their planned retirement date. Time and again we hear stories about layoffs occurring in order for companies to save money. When they happen, they don’t typically happen to the youngest, cheapest workers.

They happen to older, higher-paid workers since the goal, after all, is to potentially save as much as possible.

While it is rarely the smartest strategy, it is likely to be the one that saves the most money. Older workers who are forced out of their jobs typically find that they have the hardest time finding a new job due to their age and salary requirements. While many ultimately find some type of work, the prospect of “starting over” commonly does not appeal to them and they simply decide to retire early instead.

3. Changing your Goals Life events such as becoming new grandparents or having a child move away can cause pre-retirees to change their overall goals. Retiring early to help a child care for their kids is a common reason for early unplanned retirement. Children and grandchildren moving away can also hasten retirement. Many retirees feel that the extra free time in retirement is wasted if not spent being more present in their family’s lives. If that family relocates, then some retirees want to follow along with them. This can ultimately change your planned retirement date.

The point of retirement is for it to be enjoyable. If it isn’t, then why bother retiring at all? While we may live a long time in retirement compared to previous generations, the reality is that not all of those years are going to be equal.

I often tell clients that the first 10 years of retirement are likely to be the most impactful. Those are the years when you will likely be as active and capable as possible. After that, the chances of diminishing health increase. You might not be physically able to do everything you can now. The goal, therefore, is to focus on the overall retirement and not just the date you plan for it to begin.

vestment 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.

Securities offered through Kestra In-

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.

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Gastrointestinal problems correlated to anxiety in dogs

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By Heidi Clayton

A

very common symptom I see associated with dogs that have anxiety or fear is the issue of frequent diarrhea, loose stool, or vomiting. I felt absolutely awful for a client who had just purchased a brand new Mercedes that was christened so to speak with her terrified German Shepherd’s explosive diarrhea on the drive. One of the complaints the owner had was her inability to successfully house train the dog, often coming home to multiple piles of poop despite being let out by a dog sitter during the day. After a debriefing of the dog's day at home, it seems that the pooping was directly correlated to a visit from Amazon or even the dog sitter coming into the house.

There have been many studies in recent years that explain the direct correlation between anxiety and gut health. A dog's intestinal tract contains millions of neurons that communicate with the billions of neurons in the brain, this system is called the enteric nervous system.

According to a Purina Institute study, “Mounting evidence suggests that gut microbes help shape normal neural development, brain biochemistry and behavior. In particular, the gut microbiota are emerging as a key node in the communication between gut and brain. This has led to the coining of a new term: microbiota-gut-brain axis.”

Further studies see a lack of certain microbiota in anxious dogs' stomachs that are needed to communicate from the enteric to the central nervous system of the brain.

Long-term fear and anxiety in dogs will take their toll on more than just their digestive system. Their immune systems and cardiovascular systems can also take a beating. Alleviating anxiety in dogs can include treating it through the gut.

If your nervous or scared dog frequently has bouts of diarrhea or vomits in the car, you might want to consider adding a probiotic to their diet. Probiotics at this time are not regulated substances, which means that com-

February 15, 2024

panies do not have to prove their effectiveness. You may want to ask your vet’s opinion on which they have seen work best. You might want to start with a natural probiotic like yogurt or a kefir. I feed my dogs fermented kefir every morning produced by a company called “Answers” and sold at Pamela’s Health & Harmony in Margate. Many of my friends make their own kefir with kits purchased from Amazon.

I have also had a great deal of success in helping the anxious and fearful dogs I train with a Purina product called “Calming Care.” While I am not always a fan of Purina dog food, I was impressed when I attended a dog show at their production center in St. Louis in their efforts put forth to study the correlation between gut health and anxiety in dogs. Their study found that a healthy bacteria called “bifidobacterium longum” is missing in the guts of fearful dogs. They created a once-daily powder called “Calming Care” that you can purchase without a prescription to add to your dog’s food. I have several clients’ dogs taking the powder. Most have seen a reduction in the dogs' anxious behaviors.

While some anxiety and fear in dogs may be genetic and could need the insight of a behaviorist, try starting with having a chat with your regular vet about adding a probiotic to their diet to help their gut and brain communicate better.

If you have any 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

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Alcove Center supports grieving kids, families

By Gabriella Bancheri

L

ocated in Galloway, NJ, The Alcove Center for Grieving Children and Families has, since its inception, been focused on the heart of the organization: serving and supporting local children and their families.

The Alcove offers resources,

counseling services, and programs for children and families who have lost loved ones. The most notable among them include supervised and therapeutic visitation, individual and group therapy, support groups, and outreach.

Founded by two therapists and social workers who identified a need for these services in South Jersey, Pat Smith and Mindy Shemtov began the initiative by conducting support groups for children, initially held in Somers Point at a space donated by a local church.

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While these groups were initially held in Somers Point, serving children across Atlantic and Cape May counties, The Alcove now operates out of their Galloway space.

As the initiative began to grow, Shemtov and Smith went beyond their own spaces and started offering outreach opportunities to schools.

This was primarily to ensure that children could access their resources even if they were unable to travel to their offices.

Their Galloway location, equipped with several meeting rooms and office spaces, has decorated rooms appropriate for different age groups.

The decoration and painting of the rooms were actually facilitated by local schoolchildren to give the space that extra touch. The aim was to have the space decorated by the children in the communities the organization serves, to make those children feel as comfortable and safe as possible.

Their thrift shop, located in the same shopping center as the re-

source center, has previously raised over 400 thousand dollars for the Center’s initiative and runs almost solely on the efforts of volunteers from the local community. The shop accepts volunteers and donations on a rolling basis.

When it comes to fundraising opportunities, The Alcove has gotten pretty creative. Some previous fundraising initiatives include opportunities to transfer Walgreens cash rewards as donations, golf classics, and ice cream festivals.

There are several other ways to give back to the organization, including through their Major Gifts and Annual Giving Programs, which allow donors to establish an “annual gift making relationship with the organization,” and the opportunity for them to support programs of their choosing, according to their site.

For more information on operating hours, staff, and volunteering and donation options, head over to their website and Facebook page, which the team updates and posts on regularly.

Gabriella is a Ventnor City resident and graduate of the University of London with an MA in Creative Writing and Publishing. Her writing is featured in a variety of digital publications ranging from food and beverage to literature to ecotourism.

Solutions to pages 55 puzzles. Check yourself!

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February 15, 2024

Linwood $764,990

1 Clover Hill Circle Egg Harbor Twp, $549,000

Northfield $739,000

AWARD WINNERS

Tree Tops Development! Well maintained with many upgrades!4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms Lisa Alper-Russo (609)289-2384

527 W White Horse Pike Galloway Township, $500,000

Great loca ed land in Cologne!3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Bathrooms Michele L. Jackson (609)335-8598

1225 Shore Road

Northfield, $475,000

Mays Landing, $499,990

Luxury living in this completely renovated contemporary home! 4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Bathrooms Cindy White (609)553-3511

136 Heather Croft

Egg Harbor Twp, $227,999

2 story corner townhome set in the back of the community! 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms Alex Terranova (973)615-5061

856-725-0179

132 N Maryland Avenue Atlantic City, $159,900

Being sold as a single family home or triplex!

6 Bedrooms, 3 Full Bathrooms Karen Oostdyk (609)432-0506

3830 S Main Road Vineland, $155,000

2 story home with almost 3 acres and a detached garage! 3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Bathrooms Michele L. Jackson (609)335-8598