SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | March 7, 2024

March Happenings

Project Prom Helps Hundreds

Lost Pet Comes Home Two Years After Fire

Local Keeps Willie Nelson In Tune

Dog Park Etiquette

Do the Irish Jig

AC St. Patrick's Parade set for Saturday

Who’s in the mood for a parade and paddy?

Make Your way to the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk on Saturday, March 9 for the 36th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Get your green on and hang with 50,000 leprechauns who will be shaking their shamrocks. The family friendly parade begins at 1 p.m. at 500 Boardwalk and will trek 2 miles down to Albany Ave. The boards fill up quickly, so get there early for the best viewing spots.

Seventy-plus floats and walking groups are expected to participate

in this year’s parade. Leading the line will be two Grand Marshals — award-winning actor Kelsey Grammer and local philanthropic businessman Steve Troiano! Grammer is best known for his iconic roles on TV shows "Cheers" and "Frasier". He also is the founder of Faith American Brewing Company. Troiano is the proprietor of Maynard’s Café in Margate. Maynard’s has been a community staple since 1966 and hosts countless fundraisers each year for organizations such as Adelaide’s Place and for local fire and police departments.

Finding the luck of the Irish

From the Editor

The temperature was below freezing the morning I rolled down my window to pay the toll (because I forgot my EZ Pass). As I stepped back on the gas and flicked the window button, I knew I was in trouble. The window was not going back up.

As I drove, icicles began to attach to my face where the tears of frustration were. My teeth chattered, and my lips turned blue as I approached my destination. As my frustration mounted, I proclaimed, “If it weren’t for bad luck, I’d have no luck!"

After the window incident, I kept my "I’m just an unlucky person" mindset for a while. Life always seemed to prove me right. The smoke alarm only chirped in the middle of the night, I only got stuck in traffic when I was already late, and I inevitably chose the longest checkout line in every store.

Then one day I heard a speaker that made me rethink my luck, or lack thereof. It was about “speaking life” into the people you love, regardless of your circumstances. The gist of it was that the words we use carry power. Words will either foster love and positivity in the life of another, or do the opposite. This applies to how we speak about our-

selves as well.

I decided to give it a try. I began to speak as if I absolutely loved my life, even the parts I typically grumbled about. At first, it felt like an act, but then the unexpected happened. I began to believe what I was saying. The more I projected positive energy around everyone and everything in my life, the better and happier my

life became.

Yes, it was words that began the shift. But to change my words, I had to adjust my mindset and look for the good in every situation, which isn’t always easy.

Over time, though, I began to feel like the luckiest girl in the world. Nothing had changed except how I viewed it, yet that changed everything!

Maybe that window incident reminded me that I needed to get my car checked out, or it gave me the rush of fresh air or perhaps even the good cry I needed that day.

What is luck, anyway? I have a fair amount of Irish in me, so I hope that will qualify me to share my observations. “Good luck” is simply a good attitude and outlook on life, along with a spirit of positive energy. That’s it. Every incident can either be seen as an obstacle or an opportunity. We get to choose how we view and respond to the everyday occurrences of life. I challenge you to give it a try. You may be luckier than you think.

Cover photo by Bob Fertsch

Meet Willie Nelson's guitar tuner, Tune’n Tom Hawkins of Atlantic City

By Gabriella Bancheri

It’s always nice to strike up a conversation with a stranger at the bar, but it’s not every day you get to say that stranger is Willie Nelson’s iconic guitar tuner. Well, if you’re a South Jersey local who frequents the Irish Pub of Atlantic City, maybe it is.

After a long and sunny Sunday, I made my way over to the Irish Pub to end my day with a perfectly poured Guinness and, to my pleasant surprise, some good chat with Tune’n Tom Hawkins (yes, this is the correct spelling, straight from the horse’s mouth). The Texas-born AC local will travel back to his roots in Texas for a few shows with Willie before he returns home to prepare for a

two-week tour on the West Coast to support Willie on the several alreadysold-out shows.

When I asked Tom what Willie is like (because, well, how could I not) he said, “Just the best. There’s really nobody like him.” To be fair, I may have to concur with it because I don’t know of many other 90-year-old musicians still going on cross-country tours.

While I popped into the Pub to ask Tom a few questions about what

it’s like working with Willie, I stayed for the conversation, as well as the vaguely clever and wise but refreshing turns of phrase he peppers it with. He was quick to remind me it’s not about him—that he’s in it for the music and to support a “great musician.”

What started as a weekend-long piano tuning gig for Bobbie Nelson, Willie Nelson’s sister, turned into a 45-year-long career. Since then, Tom has traveled with Nelson tuning his guitar— from all over the US to Japan to Tasmania to England—enjoying great music, drinking good whiskey, and collecting more clever phrases for his arsenal.

And while this is quite an undeniably enjoyable lifestyle, Tom insists he’s “just a guy.”

though, was when I asked Tom about his favorite part of going on tour. His answer: coming home to AC and returning to his family at the Irish Pub.

I can certainly say I learned a few things while sitting at the bar with Tune’n Tom.

First, he may be an AC local now, but his Southern charm hasn’t left him (and neither has his love for whiskey).

Second, if you end up at the Pub with him, and you decide to take your turn on the jukebox, you'd better not be playing any Elvis (or ’90s grunge rock, God help you). It’s best to stick to Toby Keith, The Pogues, and, of course, good ol’ Willie.

And lastly, he might be “just a guy,” but he’s the kind of guy who will make a conversation worth having.

My favorite part of our chat,

So, who is Tune’n Tom? I can say that he’s a simple, carefree man who loves good music, Irish whiskey, and the people and places he calls home.

And that’s who he’ll be, to use one of his phrases, “If the good Lord’s willin’ and the creek don’t rise.”

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.

Springtime in Paris: The 41st Annual Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala returns March 21

Atlantic Cape Community College’s 41st Annual restaurant Gala will be held on Thursday, March 21, 6-9:30 p.m. at the Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City. This year’s gala theme of Springtime in Paris will feature a deliciously eclectic mix of some of the region’s most delectable fine foods, desserts and various beverages.

The Gala will recognize Community Honoree, Travis Lunn, President and Chief Operating Officer, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, and Academy of Culinary Arts (ACA) Honoree, Chef Demetrios Haronis, 1990 ACA graduate and current executive chef at Tropicana Atlantic City.

The festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with a lavish cocktail reception, featuring hors d’oeuvres prepared by the students of the Academy of Culinary Arts. A formal dinner will follow at 7 p.m. in the Wildwood Ballroom,

complete with sample signature dishes, desserts and some of the finest libations from more than 50 South Jersey establishments. An open bar, live musical entertainment and photo booth will add to festivities.

Year after year, the restaurant Gala attracts more than 1,000 community and business leaders, government officials, food enthusiasts and friends of the college. Since its inception in 1984, the Atlantic Cape restaurant Gala has raised more than $4 million for scholarships for students attending the Academy of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management program, an emergency fund, special projects and Atlantic Cape Foundation operations. In 2023, $284,575 was raised to provide much-needed funds for culinary students and emergency relief.

For more information, please contact Kristin Jackson at kjackson@ atlanticcape.edu or (609) 463-3621.

Ocean City Fire Department achieves highest honor

By Steffen Klenk

The Ocean City Fire Department made an extraordinary announcement on Monday. The 68-member squad has achieved the Insurance Services Office (ISO) status of Class 1, a classification only held by less than 1.5 percent of all 40,000 fire departments throughout the country. This status reflects several factors, which includes the department’s excellence in firefighting operations, training, staffing, equipment, responses, and community risk reduction. The new rating will go into effect as of June 1, 2024.

In a press conference, Mayor Jay Gillian spoke about the achievement and thanked the staff for their devotion to service. “Ocean City’s first

responders are second to none. I’m proud of their service and public safety will always be a cornerstone of ‘America’s Greatest Family resort’.”

The Insurance Services Office (ISO) collects and evaluates valuable data and information from communities throughout the country. The

information is analyzed using a Fire Suppression rating System (FSrS), after which a Public Protection Classification (PPC) grade is assigned to that community.

Not only does this valuable rating provide peace of mind for homeowners and businesses in Ocean City,

allowing insurance companies that use PPC data to establish fair premiums, but it also shows the community’s investment in fire mitigation.

“ receiving this award is an excellent acknowledgement of the operations and protections offered by the Ocean City Department of Fire and rescue Services,” said Fire Chief James P. Smith in a statement. “I’m grateful to the city for providing the resources to help us attain this rare rating.”

The Ocean City Fire Department joins the ranks of two other New Jersey towns in the state to carry the ISO Class 1 rating, including Jersey City and Hackensack.

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

Photo by Steffen Klenk

Cat missing from house fire reunites with family after two years

By Julia Train

Melissa Bowers Vola and her family thought they lost their cat Zoe forever after a house fire, but after two years they are now reunited with their pet.

Vola’s family home in Egg Harbor Township caught on fire on Feb. 1, 2022. Her 10-year-old daughter was inside the house, alone with their cat and four dogs—one of which didn’t make it out.

Zoe, the cat, was seen in the driveway by a neighbor after the fire. The Vola Family was relieved the cat got out.

The family searched for several

months, with the help of relatives, friends and neighbors.

Lost cat posters were hung throughout the area and people put out traps, food and water to bring her home.

“People were trying to help us and we weren’t really able to do much because we were trying to deal with our grief and

what just happened,” said Vola. “We didn’t know where we were going to live and our dog died.”

After losing their home, the family stayed in a hotel for a month, then rented a house for six months until they bought one close to English Creek Avenue.

For a while, every once in a while, a neighbor would say they thought they saw the cat, but weren't certain. So Vola would drive over and search, to no avail.

She recalled telling her kids not to worry about their cat, that she’s probably safe at someone’s house.

In reality, Vola feared that either an animal preyed on the cat or a car hit her.

On Thursday, Feb. 29, Debbie Burgess, a member of the Original Egg Harbor Township Area Happenings Facebook group, posted two photos of a cat that looked like Zoe in her front yard, located around English Creek Manor.

She captioned it, “Is anyone missing this beautiful cat? Long hair, looks to be part angora.”

When Vola saw the post, she was skeptical, but decided it couldn’t hurt to reach out.

After contacting Burgess, sending

her a picture of Zoe and realizing the two cats’ eyes were the same, she drove five minutes to the house. The cat wasn’t there, so Vola left, but when she got home, Burgess called her and said the cat let her pick her up.

Vola went back to the house to see the cat and was able to pet the skinny, dirty cat. She called her husband to help her confirm it was Zoe because she thought she was hallucinating. After much deliberation, they concluded the cat was Zoe and brought her home.

After grieving the loss of their cat for two years, Vola surprised her now 12-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter, who said the reunion helped her deal with the sadness and anxiety she had felt.

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

IGT teams up with Boys and Girls Club to support Project Prom

Making sure every teen can be decked out for their special night

By Gabriella Bancheri

Project Prom, set for March 9-11 at Kensington Furniture in Northfield, has been an iconic South Jersey event since founder rene Kane came up with the idea 10 years ago.

Kane was inspired to create Project Prom as a way to put her daughters’ expensive, no-longer needed prom dresses to good use by offering them to young women who couldn’t afford a dress otherwise. Instead of hanging in a closet collecting dust, Kane realized that the beautiful dresses her daughters, and hundreds of other young women, wore to prom could give that many underprivileged teenagers the

opportunity to have their own beautiful prom experiences.

Since then, Project Prom has been able to help thousands of young women from the Atlantic County area look their best on prom night for free thanks to community support and dress donations.

This year, the Eastern r egion Team at IGT (International Gaming Technology) wanted to be a part of the initiative. Having reached out to the Boys and Girls Club, which recently announced that it was partnering with Project Prom, IGT proposed a donation of gift cards to places like nail salons, hair salons, shoe stores and accessory stores to help with additional costs associated with attending prom.

It was truly a pleasure to speak with the teams from IGT and the Boys and Girls Club of AC and to be there when IGT presented the organization with 10 $50 gift cards, which members of the Boys and Girls Club will gift to high school students most in need of financial assistance.

While this is IGT’s first year part-

nering with the Boys and Girls Club and Project Prom, the company has previously worked with the organization on other initiatives. There was even talk of a potential career and mentoring day which IGT would like to offer Boys and Girls Club members.

Other local initiatives and organizations IGT has supported include reed’s Farm in Egg Harbor Township, and the Funny Farm Animal Sanctuary in Mays Landing, both of which they will continue to support this year with volunteering assistance and two $1,000 grants.

readers, keep your eyes peeled, too, because IGT will be collecting books in September, which will be donated to various organizations in Atlantic County that might be in need.

IGT’s support of these initiatives is largely encouraged and supported by Eastern region Vice President Tim Shortall, who has been involved with community events for decades. As a unit, Shortall’s team has been directly involved in these kinds of initiatives for almost 20 years.

Alice Santiago, administrative assistant at IGT, is particularly enthusiastic about the company’s community outreach and partnerships. Both Santiago and Shortall are South Jersey residents themselves, and clearly have strong interests in being a part of hands-on community engagement.

As for the Boys and Girls Club, it’s no question that the team works every day to secure resources for activities such as Project Prom, career days, and the upcoming Let’s Get Cookin’ and June Madness events.

As for Project Prom donations, dresses in sizes 16-24 are also still being accepted and can be brought to the following locations: Berkshire Hathaway, 9218 Ventnor Ave., Margate; JCC Margate, 501 N. Jerome Ave, Margate; and Esthetica, 1205 Tilton road, Northfield.

Monetary donations to the Boys and Girls Club can be made by visiting www.acbgc.org/donate or by check, if you’d like to make a prom-related donation specifically. You can also contact Project Prom directly via their website, www.projectpromac.com.

If financial and dress donations aren’t an option for you and you want to lend a helping hand, the event is in need of volunteers. Just email Community Liaison Coordinator Meredith Godfrey at mgodfrey@acbgc.org

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.

Sack O’ Subs

By Erica Hoffman

Following countless rumors, speculations, and hangry anticipation, Sack O’ Subs in Ventnor has reopened its doors after a fire damaged much of the original location in June of 2022. The new and sharply remodeled shop made its official return to Ventnor on March 1 with three generations of the Sacco Family in attendance. Fuzzy, the patriarch of the Sacco clan, now 93 years old, even made an appearance.

Fuzzy was one of the founders of the White House Sub Shop in Atlantic City in 1947 before leaving to open the first Sack O’ Subs in Ventnor in 1969. Anthony Sacco, grandson of the original owner, Fuzzy, and son of the owner of both Ocean City locations, Al Sacco, has taken over as owner of this

location and the Absecon location since 2014.

“We’re thrilled to be back in Ventnor,” said Anthony Sacco.

The newly remodeled shop boasts an updated façade, expanded menu and a convenient pickup window. Its new location is now 5223 Ventnor Ave. Sack O’ Subs fans will be familiar with the location,

thought-out interior is a clear sign that Anthony is considering the spot’s future while paying homage to its roots and aesthetics of its past. The famous red Sack O’ Subs sign, which graced Ventnor Avenue for decades, now hangs inside on the wall as a reminder of where they came from and what they have grown into.

as it is directly next to the former location of 5217 Ventnor Ave.

The beautifully designed and well-

The long-awaited opening seems well worth the wait, and Anthony looks forward to making his family proud.

“It’s even better than I remember,” one satisfied customer couldn’t help but exclaim as she took her first bite in almost two years.

Now, just in time for locals to get their Sack O’ Sub fix before the busy summer season starts, it’s back like it never skipped a beat. The reopening brings all the classic favorites that loyal patrons have come to know and love: the Italian, rich whipped tuna, and cheesesteaks, to name a few.

In addition to its classic menu

items, Sack O’ Subs is introducing some exciting new offerings, including homemade pizzas and classic Italian dinner options.

The much-anticipated opening has sparked excitement throughout Ventnor and neighboring shore towns, with locals already lining up to get their hands (and mouths) on their particular sub of choice. Whether you’re craving a classic Italian or something a bit more adventurous, Sack O’ Subs is back and has something for everyone.

So, if you find yourself in Ventnor, stop by Sack O’ Subs and experience the deliciousness for yourself. With their undeniable sandwiches and welcoming atmosphere, it’s been proven that they can and will stand the test of time.

Sack O’ Subs has locations in Egg Harbor Township, Absecon, Bally’s Casino, two in Ocean City, and thankfully, once again, in Ventnor at 5223 Ventnor Ave., on the corner of Little rock and Ventnor avenues.

The Ventnor location’s updated hours are Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.8:30 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sack O’ Subs’ phone number is 609-823-2552 or find them online at www.sackosubs.com.

Erica Hoffman was born in Atlantic City and is proud to be writing for Shore Local. She lives in South Jersey and enjoys finding and sharing the lighter side of life.

Nick West and Angela Sacco are happy to be back in Ventnor.

When scam hits home: Protecting yourself and your community

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

Since early March, Galloway police have been looking for two suspects after skimming devices were found on two ATMs inside a Wawa store in Galloway Township.

The devices were found on machines inside the busy convenience store located on the White Horse Pike at Pomona road. They were discovered by a mechanic performing regular maintenance on the machines.

What exactly is a skimmer? It’s a small device disguised as standard ATM parts that collect card numbers and PIN codes from unsuspecting users. Thankfully, at this time, police say that no data from the Pomona store was transmitted to the mastermind

criminals.

Skimming devices may also be haphazardly fixed to the ATM, sometimes even with tape. It will be loose-fitting as well. “If you see an atypical bulky attachment to an ATM, do not use it and report it to authorities,” Galloway police directed the public.

In 2022, more than 161,000 cards nationwide were impacted by skimming, which is nearly five times the number impacted the year before. Skimming has been on the rise, so consumers need to be smart and protect their data.

As technology advances, so do opportunities for scammers. Criminologists warn that skimmers could potentially hack cell phones through SIM cards to collect virtual wallet payment information.

Officially scared? remember that you can keep you and your finances safe through these simple steps:

1. Know what to look for. Be wary of a slot that is unusually bulky or has visible signs of glue or adhesive tape. Give it tug, and if it’s not solid, notify the bank or call 911 immediately.

2. Look for hidden cameras Scammers are desperate to collect your PIN number. They may place small pinhole cameras near the ATM and point them toward the keypad. Scan for components that are temporarily affixed to the side or top of the machine, especially near the lights.

3. Pay attention to the keypad. Overlays can record your button presses, so if a keypad looks abnormal, don’t use it.

4. Be aware of your surroundings. Scammers are more likely to target an ATM that is in a high-traffic

area. Choose one that is inside a bank or within the sight of a security camera for safety. Note if someone is behind you and shield your PIN from anyone looking over your shoulder.

5. Get to know your financial institution. Learn the policies and procedures of your bank or credit union. The banking industry and federal regulators are working hard to keep your transactions secure, so lean on your allies.

6. Know what’s happening. Mobile banking makes it easier to track your payments and monitor your accounts. Check your finances regularly and review your monthly statements so that everything is in check.

Take a deep breath. More businesses are installing electronic fraud security systems into their payment process, which can protect them from all types of fraudulent approaches and cyber attacks. Payment card companies are also broadening their security and investing in safety.

Atlantic City Women’s March to honor late Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver

By Julia Train

March is Women’s History Month, and Atlantic City’s Women’s March will be highlighting the life and legacy of the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver.

The sixth annual march to celebrate women will be held on March 23 at 10 a.m., moving from its starting point at road Island Avenue on the Atlantic City Boardwalk and concluding at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.

On the day of the march, hundreds of participants, consisting mostly of

local women from nearby women’s groups, sororities, event speakers and talents and the march’s leadership committee, will walk down the Boardwalk to celebrate every woman who made an impact in history.

“We just wanted to highlight women,” said Stephenine Dixon, cochair of the Atlantic City Women's March Committee. “We’re always in the background doing the work, but not acknowledged enough to be in the forefront.”

When the procession reaches Boardwalk Hall, there will be a tribute to the lieutenant governor, who passed away in August after a brief hospitalization for an undisclosed medical issue.

Oliver’s family, friends and coworkers will be there to tell her story in Boardwalk Hall’s ballroom with songs, poetry and speakers such as senators, assembly people, congresswomen and the new Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way.

As Oliver was the march’s first keynote speaker in 2019, Dixon thought it was fitting to pay tribute to her.

Over a three-decade political career, Oliver was an advocate for social and racial justice, boosting struggling cities, and bolstering gun safety. She was also a routinely poetic public speaker, according to NJ.com.

She was New Jersey’s second lieutenant governor, the first Black one, and the first Black woman to hold statewide elected office in New Jersey. Oliver also made history in 2010 when she became the first Black woman to lead the state Assembly.

“‘If they don’t give you a seat at the table, you make your own table,’ was one of her favorite quotes,” said Dixon, remembering Oliver’s past speeches. “Through the works of her life and legacy, she has created her own table.”

When picking speakers for this year, the committee looked for people who have worked with Oliver and were in her personal life, so that her full story could be shared.

This year’s keynote speaker is rev. Dr. regena Thomas, former secretary of state of New Jersey under Gov. James McGreevey and is currently the Women, Health and Civil rights Advocacy Director for the American Federation of Teachers.

Dixon recalled the atmosphere is peaceful and feels “like everyone knew each other from day one, even though they didn’t.” She said that the women leave feeling empowered after the unity.

“We're just uplifting women, bringing them together, letting them know that we’re here for support in any way we can,” said Dixon. “Just give them a day in Women's History Month to celebrate each and every one of those that march with us.”

To reserve a spot and learn more, visit: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/2024-atlantic-city-womens-march-tickets-853885533617?aff=oddtdtcreator

Events and Happenings

Multiday Events

Market Madness

▶Saturday, March 9 & Sunday, March 10, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk The concept is simple: All of Ocean City’s favorite stores under one roof, offering amazing shopping specials. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Project Prom

▶Saturday, March 9, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sunday, March 10, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; & Monday, March 11, 2 – 5 p.m.

Kensington Furniture 200 Tilton rd. Northfield

Come choose the dress of your dreams for prom! This event is open to all high school students in need of a prom dress. Eighth graders are

also welcome. Learn more at www. projectpromac.com.

MAAC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships

▶Tuesday, March 12 – Saturday, March 16

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk

The 2024 Hercules Tires MAAC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships return to Boardwalk Hall. The winners of both the Men’s and Women’s tournaments receive an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. Tickets and information are available at www.boardwalkhall.com.

Friday, March 8

Shore Medical Center Designer Handbag Bingo ▶7 p.m.

VFW Post 2189 500 Bethel rd. Somers Point

Hosted by Shore Medical Center, tickets are $35 each and include twelve rounds of bingo and a chance to win designer handbags from luxury brands. Guests must be 21 and older to participate. Event proceeds will find new medical equipment, technology, and patient care initiatives. Tickets and tables of eight may be reserved online at http://weblink. donorperfect.com/2024HandbagBingo.

Saturday, March 9

Atlantic City St. Patrick’s Day Parade

▶1 p.m.

Atlantic City Boardwalk from Ocean Casino to Albany Ave.

Break out your green and join Grand Marshals Steve Troiano, proprietor of Maynard’s Café, and award-winning actor and founder of Faith American Brewing Company, Kelsey Grammer, for the historic Atlantic City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Over 120 participants will participate in the parade spanning two miles of the Atlantic City Boardwalk. The event is rain or shine. Learn more at www.acstpatricksdayparade.com.

Pop Up Craft Fair at Scullville Volunteer Fire Co.

▶10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

1708 Somers Point rd. Egg Harbor Township

Hosted by the Scullville Auxiliary, this indoor craft fair will include dozens of local artisans. Support local businesses and shop for unique gifts, home décor, and food. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.

The Elephant Man Matinee and Discussion

▶1 – 4 p.m.

Noyes Arts Garage 2200 Fairmount Ave. Atlantic City

Join Noyes Arts Garage at the Atlantic City Free Public Library’s Film Society for a free afternoon film screening and discussion of “The Elephant Man”. This 1980 drama is rated PG and runs for 2 hours and 3 minutes. rSVP online at www.artsgarageac.com.

Movie at the Library: Ferrari

▶2 p.m.

Longport Public Library 2305 Atlantic Ave.

Set in the summer of 1957, with Enzo Ferrari’s auto empire in crisis, the ex-racer turned entrepreneur pushes himself and his drivers to the edge as they launch into a treacherous 1,000-mile race across Italy. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.

Brigantine Ink: Writers Meet-Up ▶2 p.m.

Atlantic County Library Brigantine Branch 4233 Brigantine Blvd.

Come out of hibernation this winter. Bring your own writing supplies, such as a laptop or journal, and join the library for afternoon coffee and quality company. Whether you write poetry, fiction, nonfiction, memoir, or if you have never written before, this is the meet-up where you will find encouragement and inspiration. This group is open to adults. register online at www.atlanticlibrary.org.

Somers Point PAL Beef and Beer ▶6 – 9 p.m.

DiOrio’s 10 MacArthur Blvd.

Hosted by the Somers Point Police Athletics & Activities League, tickets are $35 and include raffles, door prizes, and a 50/50. Purchase tickets

in advance through Venmo @SomersPointPAL.

Sunday, March 10

Houseplant Décor and Plant Swap ▶1 – 2:30 p.m.

Noyes Arts Garage 2200 Fairmount Ave. Atlantic City

Join rutgers Master Gardeners and Cooperative Extension and staff from the Noyes Arts Garage for a free gardening workshop. Bring your own unhealthy houseplants to be diagnosed. Healthy plants can be part of their plant swap. rSVP online at www.artsgarageac.com.

Danu: Traditional Music of Ireland ▶2 p.m.

Stockton Performing Arts Center 101 Vera King Farris Dr. Galloway

Hailing from Counties Waterford, Cork, Dublin, and Donegal in Ireland, Danu is one of the leading traditional Irish ensembles of today. The group has a strong ethos of loyalty to the tradition from which their music comes and yet brings a fresh, inspiring approach to their music. Learn more and purchase tickets at www. stockton.org/pac. Music for Magical Mallets ▶2 p.m.

Ocean City Free Public Library 1735 Simpson Ave.

Join Ocean City Library for a free concert featuring classics, tangos,

ragtime and Broadway featuring Mark O’Kain and Jeffrey Uhig. The concert is free and open to the public. It will be held in the Library’s Lecture Hall. Seating is first come, first served.

Monday, March 11

Women’s Coffee & Conversation: Reframing Aging Together ▶10:30 a.m.

Katz JCC Boardroom 501 N. Jerome Ave. Margate

Join Village Community Specialist

Tina Serota, Bratton Law Group, JCC, Angelic Health, Alzheimer’s Association, and UMC as they host a professional speaking session on issues that impact a woman’s ability to live

her best life. This month’s topic will focus on “Asset Protection & Estate Planning for Women”. rSVP by March 7 by calling (609) 287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Movie at the Library: Poor Things ▶2 p.m.

Longport Public Library 2305

Atlantic Ave.

Attendees are invited to enjoy this incredible tale about the fantastical evolution of Belle Baxter, a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter. Please call (609) 4877403 to register or learn more.

↘Continued on 20

Tuesday, March 12

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.

Somers Point Dance Society

▶7:30 – 10 p.m.

Somers Point Fire Hall 447 Bethel rd.

The Dance Society is back in 2024. Admission is $10 and includes snacks, live musical duos, line dancing, dance mixers, social dancing, and plenty of parking. Come out and kick up your heels, or just listen to good music with good company.

Wednesday, March 13

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.

Friday, March 15

Movie at the Library: The Color Purple

▶2 p.m.

Longport Public Library 2305

Atlantic Ave.

Attendees are invited to enjoy this musical drama where a woman faces many hardships in her life, but ultimately finds extraordinary strength and hope in the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. Please call (609) 487-7403 to register or learn more.

Saturday, March 16

Ocean City Job Fair

▶10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk

The Ocean City regional Chamber of Commerce is in a partnership with Ocean City High School to assist businesses in filling seasonal employment positions. The event is open to everyone and the Chamber strongly encourages employers and potential employees to sign up now. For further information, call the Chamber at (609) 399-1412. Easter at the Park

▶12 – 3 p.m.

Atlantic County Park at Estell Manor 109 route 50 South, Mays Landing

Children of all ages are invited to celebrate Easter at the Park where they can participate in an egg hunt, craft activities, and a wagon ride. The event is sponsored by the Atlantic County Division of Parks and recreation. The event is free to attend. registration is required at www.aclink.org/parks. For questions, please call the Nature Center at (609) 625-1897 or email parks@ aclink.org. rain date: Sunday, March 17, 12 p.m.

Brigantine St. Patrick’s Day

▶1 p.m.

St. Thomas Church to Veterans Way at 32nd St.

Shake the Shamrock and join the Brigantine Chamber of Commerce for this annual event filled with marching bands, floats, nonprofit organizations, and lots of green all around. Line up at 11:30 a.m. at the St. Thomas Church parking lot. More details can be found at www. ShakeTheShamrock.com.

Manhattan Contemporary Chamber Ensemble

▶7 p.m.

Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Church 1490 Pacific Ave. Atlantic City

The Parish of Saint Monica presents An Evening with the Manhattan Contemporary Chamber Ensemble.

Featuring richard Auldon Clark on violin and viola, Christine Moulton on flute and Matthew Slotkin on guitar, the trio will perform the music of J.S. Bach, Hoffmeister, and Matiegka. Proceeds will benefit the restoration of the Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Church. For tickets, call (609) 3451878.

Health and Wellness

NAMI Basics Program

▶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 free program will be held via Zoom. registration is open now. For more information, email nami1557@gmail. com, or visit www.namiacm.org.

NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶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. NAMI ACM is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation.

MHA Atlantic Family Meeting

▶Thursday, March 14, 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. Three online meetings each month, with both day and evening options available. To receive a link, contact Gail Christian at (609) 652-3800 ext. 0301 or email gchristian@mhanj.org.

Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, March 20, 1:30 p.m.

6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, Mays Landing

Held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month from 1:30 – 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at (609) 402-6966 for more information.

Community CPR Class

▶Wednesday, March 27, 6 p.m.

royal Suites Healthcare and rehabilitation 214 W. Jimmie Leeds rd. Galloway

Spots are limited. Please call (609) 748-9900 x. 1312 and leave an rSVP and phone number for Diane Conover. This class is of no charge.

Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.

Helping people fulfill their business dreams

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

While I was riding in the parking lot of the Tilton Shopping Center and the Tilton Square Theatre in Northfield, I noticed that a new business had opened. It is called the Lion Business Services. Curious, I went in and introduced myself to a very friendly young woman who happened to be the owner of the beautifully renovated business. Her name is Daysi Bettran.

She explained the unique, one-stop business services that she and her team of advisors offer.

I found her story fascinating and I asked Daysi, and her husband Daniel, to give me the history of how Lion Business Services evolved.

Daniel was also very friendly, explaining their background from where he and Daysi came from, to today

where they are fulfilling their dream of helping with various support services for small to midsize businesses owners.

Daysi started her career in the frontlines of the banking business and progressed to the helm of Lion Business Services. Her journey has been a testament to her hard work and dedication, deep-seated passion and commitment for financial empowerment.

Her career began as a bank teller. It was a role that first ignited her desire to help clients achieve financial success. Daysi climbed up the ranks to manage multiple financial centers where she honed her expertise in guiding individuals and business people toward their goals.

Daysi, who is bilingual in Spanish and English, has always believed in breaking barriers to ensure inclusive financial advice. Daysi’s experiences laid the foundation for Lion Business Services.

It is a venture born from a commitment to helping others succeed financially. At Lion Business Services, their mission is to be a beacon of guidance and commitment for individuals and companies that are striving for financial growth.

Daysi and Daniel understand that the essence of business is not just

earning; it is also to establish a strong foundation for solid growth through strategic planning with their clients.

Services include business registration, licensing, accounting, tax services, and social media management. They pride themselves on being a one-stop shop for businesses, ensuring that operations are streamlined and efficient, which enables their clients to do what they know best – their business or skill.

With more than a decade of experience and a team of certified business advisors, they specialize in international services and taxation. As a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) for the I rS, and with partnerships from China to Europe and South America, they bring a global perspective to local business needs.

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Their digital and user-friendly processes are designed to facilitate clients’ success. As they continue to grow, they will focus on being a trusted partner.

If you are seeking to establish a partnership with an adept, caring business, give Daysi Bettran a call at 609813-6633, or visit the Lion Business Services website, www.lbsprocess. com, where you can explore how they can help achieve your financial dreams in this complicated world.

Daniel Bettran is the visionary at the helm of American General Contractor, located in the same office as Daysi. He brings a new level of artistry and expertise to the construction industry, highlighted by the excellent quality of work in the renovated office.

His diverse management skills and innovative approach have positioned AGC as a leader in licensed construction, especially in home remodeling.

Daniel, and his team at AGC, are not just home builders; they are also dream realizers. With a customer-focused philosophy, AGC excels in transforming visions into tangible realities. They are dedicated to making the process as engaging and seamless as possible from the initial concept to the completion.

Stop by to discuss your needs with Daniel and Daysi see how each of them can help you.

remember to support small business. They are the backbone of our community.

Lion Business Services is committed to expanding their network and expertise, particularly by connecting with CPAs, bookkeepers and tax preparers seeking CAA certification assistance.

Drawing inspiration from the 2024 Philadelphia Flower Show - “United by Flowers”

By Tammy Thornton

With spring just around the corner, South Jersey gardeners are eagerly plotting out new color schemes using flowers that they have been dreaming about all winter long. Garden clubs have reconvened, and nurseries have reopened, overflowing with new offerings of colorful spring flowers. Meeting with like-minded gardeners is a great way to spark creativity and think of new ideas for this year’s garden. Attending garden tours and flower shows can help your imagination run wild. This year’s PHS (Pennsylvania Horticultural Society) Philadelphia Flower Show will have you wanting to run home to plant your own garden, even if it’s at midnight by candlelight.

This year’s theme, “United by Flowers”, celebrates finding unity with our shared “love of gardening, flowers and plants, and the impact they make on our lives all year long.” Now in its 195th year, the show features 32 major exhibitors. As you walk into the show,

you will have your first glimpse of the Entrance Garden. Take in the panoramic view, and you’ll want to live in this magical garden. Pink clouds of flowers suspend from above while reflecting onto the glass-like pools of water below. This initial exhibit with the name “Edges and reflections” boasts the Flower Show’s largest body of water ever created. Meanwhile, enormous flower-filled arrangements appear to be floating

on the water with flowering pink trees lining the backdrop. You must linger to take it all in as music continues the entrancing mood and you take a closer look at the scene in front of you. Only then do you realize that you are standing in front of row upon row of tulips bordering the water intermixed with all varieties of flowers. This closer look will help you see how you can implement some of these ideas back home. Though you may not be able to plant pink clouds in your backyard, take notice of how the use of water and reflections can be used in your own garden. Color-blocking also lends to the dramatic effect. Plant groupings of tulips and other spring flowers together using the same color scheme to maximize the visual impact.

If you are able to pull yourself away from this breathtaking Entrance Garden, you will be rewarded with the

South Jersey’s Jennifer Designs exhibit “America in Bloom” features the USA in flowers.

Floor to ceiling hanging baskets rival the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.

next exhibit that rivals the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Bursting with vibrant flowers, these tiered arrangements suspend from high above all the way down to ground level, filled with every flower imaginable including roses, amaryllises, tulips, and orchids. While these enormous structures may be a bit out of scale in your own garden, think about how the use of hanging baskets changes perspective. You can really appreciate the differences of viewing your

New arrivals daily.

flowers from all different angles. Just around the corner from this display, you will find the amazing exhibit of South Jersey floral designer, Jennifer’s Designs. Their exhibit, entitled “America in Bloom”, features a map of the United States, using flowers for the swathes of colors representing America. The scene is completed with a red convertible ready for the “botanical trip of a lifetime!”

Of course, the flower show wouldn’t be complete without Linwood’s own, the award winning Waldor Orchids. Fourth generation orchid-grower David Off and his team created the exhibit entitled “Vanilla”. Did you know that vanilla comes from the seed pod of an orchid plant? Waldor Orchid’s display celebrates orchids with a focus on these special vanilla orchids that grow as a vine on tree trunks or totems.

In addition to being wowed by the flower power of the larger exhibits, touring through the smaller displays will inspire you to make your herb and vegetable gardens beautiful as well. In the same way that masses of colorful flowers have a dramatic impact,

The “Edges and Reflections” Entrance Garden wow visitors right from the start.

planting large amounts of basil, spinach, and sage will have a mouth-watering effect as you dream about all of the wonderful dishes you can create with your own fresh herbs. Take note as well how flowers are interplanted among herbs and vegetables. Not only does this add a pleasing effect visually to your garden, but you will be attracting more pollinators, which means a more bountiful harvest.

Just as we are united by our love of flowers and gardening, we can draw inspiration from each other

for creativity and zest for life. We would love to hear from our Shore Local readers. What has inspired you for this new gardening season? Send your comments, questions, and gardening pictures 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.

Linwood’s award-winning Waldor’s Orchids with their exhibit entitled “Vanilla”.

Old 'trash' may be a treasure

From baseball cards and sports equipment to postcards and photographs, is that “junk” in your attic or basement dusty treasure or just dusty? We’ve all heard of families getting rich from the sale of rare memorabilia they found when spring cleaning.

A little time spent determining if items are valuable and where to sell them can pay off in the long run.

“The sale of older sports cards, postcards and photographs can yield thousands of dollars, even tens of thousands or more for the right ones,” says Al Crisafulli, Auction Director at Love of the Game Auctions, an internet sports auction house that helps families identify and sell valuable sports cards and memorabilia.

Crisafulli has assisted people in selling tens of millions of dollars of baseball card collections, autographs, sports equipment and more. Such sales can be life changing. In one instance, he researched a family’s old baseball bat and proved it was game used by Hall of Famer

Lou Gehrig. His Love of the Game Auctions sold it for almost half a million dollars, a figure which would top a million dollars today.

Here are some of his tips to determine if your sports collectibles are valuable:

The Older, the Better with Cards

Vintage sports cards from the early periods of sports are collectible, especially Hall of Famers. Do you have stars from the 1960s, 1950s or earlier? Look for names like Mickey Mantle, Jackie robinson, Babe ruth, Honus Wagner or Ty Cobb. Even non-star cards can be valuable, especially in nice condition with sharp corners and no creases.

really early cards from the 1880s through the 1930s are particularly desirable, such as those by tobacco, gum and candy brands, such as Old Judge, Piedmont, Sweet Caporal, American Caramel, Goudey or Diamond Stars.

When determining where to sell cards and memorabilia, focus on a specialty auction house, such as Love of the Game, which employs

trained experts in researching sports ephemera, and maintains bidder lists of sports collectors. More information is available at loveofthegameauctions.com.

Don’t Overlook Memorabilia and Equipment

Cards aren’t the only potentially valuable things. Look for older promotional and advertising ephemera spotlighting sports stars, especially items that promote sporting goods, food or tobacco brands. Ads from magazines aren’t valuable, but store displays, signs and premiums can be pricey.

Old sporting goods and equipment, such as balls, bats, gloves and uniforms, can also be valuable, especially if you had a family member who played minor or major league sports. Note that items from before the 1960s are highly collected. Also look for equipment endorsed by star players. Condition matters, but game-used equipment from professionals can be valuable in almost any condition.

Save Postcards and Photographs

If you have old photographs, cab -

inet cards or postcards of sports stars or ballparks, they should be evaluated. Those from pre-1960 can be expensive. Look for early “real photo” postcards from the 1900s through the 1940s, which are photographs printed on postcard backs.

Popular stars are key, meaning original images like Babe ruth or early ballparks can be valuable, as opposed to images of your family members playing sports or of popular vacation destinations. When examining photographs, look for markings on the back, such as photographer, publication and date stamps. Also set aside cabinet cards, which are photographs from the 1880s through the 1930s adhered to cardboard stock.

“A good rule of thumb is that the older a sports item is, the more valuable it might be, especially from before the 1950s going back to the 1880s,” says Crisafulli.

This spring cleaning season, don’t rush to haul “junk” to the curb. Examine it first.

(StatePoint)

What's happening in Ocean City

Ocean City kicks off 2023 Season with Market Madness

Boardwalk and Downtown merchants in Ocean City will give shoppers a summer preview during the two-day Market Madness event on Saturday and Sunday, March 9 and 10 at the Ocean City Music Pier.

The sale will bring together more than 30 different vendors under one roof and provide discounts on favorite local merchandise, goods and attractions. Hours for the event are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Parking will be free in municipal lots adjacent to the boardwalk at Moorlyn Terrace, Eighth Street and Ninth Street.

Ocean City's Boardwalk Merchants Association and Downtown Merchants Association created the new Market Madness in 2020 as an early-season attraction, and the fourth annual event will help kick off a season of 2024 special events that will continue throughout the year. There will be prize give-aways, a live DJ both days from noon to 3 p.m., and food and drink for sale. remember to bring your own shopping bags.

Among other businesses, participating vendors will include:

● We Make It Personal

● Jay’s Crab Shack

● Manco and Manco Pizza

● George’s Candies

● Wonderland Pier

● Playland’s Castaway Cove

● Jilly’s T-Shirt Factory

● Goodies Gone Wild

● Boba Works

● Surf Mall

● Shirt Shack

● Jilly’s Arcade

● OC Waterpark

● Air Circus

● Stainton’s Gallery of Shops

● Jewelry Hut

● Shades

● Making Waves

● Ashore Fit

● White Lotus

● Bowfish Kids

● Sand + Stitch

● Hula restaurant

● Bella U

● Fisherman’s Cove

● All Campus

● LEH Soap Company

● Congo Falls

● Bad Kitty

● Payton Jewelry

● Kay Jay’s Doll Shoppe

● Lisa’s Sweet Treats

Ocean City Job Fair on March 16

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. Businesses can register to participate and students can register to attend by calling the Ocean City regional Chamber of Commerce at 609-399-1412.

More Spring Events in Ocean City

March 23 and March 30 – Great Egg Hunts: These events return to the Boardwalk from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on March 23 and March 30. Families with children are invited to stop by participating Boardwalk stores in a

Photo by Steffen Klenk

hunt for eggs filled with treats and prizes. rain dates are March 24 and March 31.

March 31 – Easter Events: Easter Sunday will start with the traditional nondenominational Sunrise Service by the sea at 6:30 a.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. The Philly Keys will perform their hit Dueling Pianos Show starting at noon in front of the Music Pier, while the Easter Bunny will meet and greet children and be available for photos in an Ocean City lifeguard boat from noon to 2 p.m.

April 5-7 – Girls Weekend: Girls Weekend on downtown Asbury Avenue between 6th Street and 14th Street includes shopping and dining specials all weekend, accommodation packages, wellness classes, and more.

The event kicks off with a Fashion Show on Friday evening (tickets). Call 609-399-1412 for more information.

April 6-7 – OC Con Comic Book & Memorabilia Show: Sales, special guests, cosplay and more at the Ocean City Music Pier. More information at ocnjcon.com.

April 6 – OC CON SuperHero Run and Super Hero Obstacle Dash: 9 a.m. start on the Boardwalk in front of the Music Pier. registration and information at ocnj.us/race-events.

April 13 – Doo Dah Parade: Welcome the spring season with this comedy-themed parade complete with more than 300 basset hounds. Parade starts at noon on Asbury Avenue from Sixth Street to 12th Street, and then moves up to the Boardwalk, ending at Sixth and Boardwalk. Dietz & Watson returns as the event sponsor.

April 20 – Sports Memorabilia Show: Sales and special guests at the Ocean City Music Pier.

April 27 – Ocean City Schools Art Showcase: See artwork on display from local Ocean City School District students and meet the artists. Event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.

April 27-28 – Boardwalk and Downtown Merchant Table Sales: 6th Street to 14th Street on the Boardwalk and Asbury Avenue.

The Place to be This Winter

From best-selling books to workshops, and from online resources to children’s activities, the Ocean City Free Public Library has something for everyone, all season long.

Photo by Steffen Klenk

Officers and Board Members installed at the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce

On Thursday, Feb. 29, the Ocean City r egional Chamber of Commerce installed their new Board of Directors and Officers at the Ocean City Yacht Club. Patrick McMahon (McMahon Agency) was installed as President of the Chamber. Patrick McMahon was born and raised in Ocean City, NJ. He graduated from Sacred Heart University and now works for McMahon Insurance Agency as a Commercial Lines Manager. The following individuals were installed as Directors on February 29th:

Members

One Year Term

● Don Tomlinson – Gleeson’s Audio Video

● Veronica (ronnie) Town – Atlantic City Electric

● Gloria Votta- Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox & roach realtors

● Dean Adams – Dean Adams Custom Builder

● Jon Batastini – Garrett & Batastini

● Carmine Cantwell – Liberty Flooring Inc.

● Joan Williamson – Ocean City Coffee Company

Organization

Representatives

● Tina Cortese – King Barnes LLC

● Jane Davis – Johnny B Goode Ice Cream Parlor

One Year Term

● Michael Allegretto – City of Ocean City

● Michael DeVlieger – OCNJ Daily

● Michael Dukeman – Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor

● Andrew Fasy – OCNJ Daily

● Becky Friedel – 7th Street Surf Shop

● Beverley Gill – Island Beach Gear

● Patrick Gill – Tackle Direct

● Danielle Guerriero – Tah Da

● Chris Halliday – Halliday Architects

● Terry Crowley – Ocean City Board of Education

● Mark Cassidy – Exchange Club of Ocean City

● John Davidson – Somers Point Business Association

● robert Barr – CMC Freeholders

● Maria Marinelli – Ocean City Board of realtors

● Wesley Kazmarck – Boardwalk Merchants Association

● Thomas Heist – Heist Insurance Agency

● Jim Hennessy – Heritage Surf Shop

● Peter Madden – Goldcoast Sotheby’s

● Nick Marotta – Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox & roach realtors

● Lindsay Monihan – Monihan realty

● Mary McGuckin – Shore Medical Center

● Keyta Peters- TD Bank

● r yan Price – Price Brothers Construction

● Eric reich – reich Asset Management

● Aimee Schultz- JASM Consulting

● Kim Styer-Gallagher – Coastal Marine Piling

● Avery Teitler – Teitler & Teitler Law

● Barbara (Babs) Stefano, – Ocean City Historical Museum

● Glenn Losch – Ocean City Hospitality Association

● Karen Mahar – Ocean City Free Public Library

● Peter Madden – Ocean City Tourism Commission

● Bill McGinnity – Ocean City restaurant Association

● Caitlin Quirk – Downtown Merchants Association

● Pastor Jay reimer – Ocean City Tabernacle

Organization Alternates

● Nancy Aiken – Ocean City Hospitality Association

● Leonard Desiderio – CMC Freeholders

● Bill Westerman – Boardwalk Merchants Association

A brief history of Seaview Country Club

By William Kelly

Sitting in the shade of an apple tree near the first tee at the Atlantic City Country Club in the summer of 1914, Clarence Geist exhaled from his cigar and complained about having to wait to play a round of golf.

Geist, or “CH” as he was known, was a multimillionaire, industrialist and owner of more than 100 utilities, including gas companies in Baltimore, Philadelphia and Atlantic City. In 1910 he founded the company that would eventually become South Jersey Industries.

He was also an avid golfer, playing as much as he could, often running his companies from the golf course.

Then one day his golfing partner, Maurice risley, told him if he had as much money as Geist did, he would build his own golf course.

Geist thought it was a great idea and instructed risley, a real estate agent, to find him a bay front parcel of land suitable for a links course that would allow for the variable winds to come into play, much like the legendary Scottish links courses. In the end the winds of change, fanned by Clarence Geist, would alter the landscape of America and forever change the nature, style and business of the game of golf.

risley’s family were among the first settlers of the area, a family that included baymen, land owners, powerful politicians and colorful personages. Maurice risley was one of the more interesting, if only for enticing Geist to build his own golf course.

While r isley selected and surveyed the bayside land on route 9, just off the White Horse Pike in Galloway, Geist hired Hugh Wilson to lay out his golf course. Wilson, who also laid out the Merion Golf Club course in Philadelphia, was an amateur golfer who traveled to the British Isles to study the links courses. He later helped finish George Crump’s legendary Pine Valley Golf Club, which included Geist as an original member. So while Wilson assisted in the design of just three courses – Merion, Seaview and Pine Valley – they are considered three of the best golf courses in the world.

While Wilson began to lay out the course, which was later completed by the equally renowned Donald ross, their distinctive signatures can still be clearly seen along the fairways and among the traps and bunkers.

In 1927 Geist hired Howard C.

Toomey and William S. Flynn to design the scenic Pines Course in the woods to the west behind the clubhouse at Seaview, which was expanded in 1957 by Flynn mentor William Gordon. More recently the courses were restored to their original designs to reflect the visions of Wilson, ross, Toomey and Flynn, considered to be four of the greatest golf course architects in America.

To go with his distinctively designed links golf course, Geist hired the best golf professional available at the time – Englishman Wilfrid reid, who had finished among the leaders of the 1913 US Open Championship

and wanted to stay in America, the land of opportunity. Geist, being a self-made millionaire at a time when there were far fewer of them than today, is said to have earned a personal income of $2 million a year. He lived first class, wore the best clothes, owned the best cars, lived in the biggest houses and exhibited a lavish lifestyle. So the clubhouse would also have to be the best, serve the best food and wines, provide the best service and everything would be done in a simple, but elegant style.

Geist christened his club the Seaview Country Club, even though the sea was quite out of view. Seaview was considered one of a dozen golf club offshoots of the Country Club of Atlantic City (Atlantic City Country Club) in Northfield. Some others were Pine Valley, Oakmont in Maryland, and most of the golf clubs in South Jersey and the Jersey Shore, which gave it the reputation of being the “mother club” when golf began to spread its wings across America.

↘Continued on 32

While the Country Club of Atlantic City was owned by the Atlantic City Boardwalk hotel owners and open to all of their guests, Geist’s Seaview Country Club would be private, open only to Geist’s friends and business associates, and those who fit his personal qualifications. If you were invited, membership dues weren’t that expensive, but if Mr. Geist heard you complain about anything – the food, the wine, the service – he was known to walk up to your table and say, “You’re resignation has been accepted.”

Golf at Seaview made its debut with great fanfare in January 1915. Over the course of the next century, a lot of great, championship golf would be played there, but the ripples of change that began there would expand far beyond Seaview and alter the nature and style of the game and the landscape of America.

Geist would go on to even bigger and better things, opening the historic Boca raton Country Club in Florida, where he hired Tommy Armour to be the club golf professional. He made many similar deals before his passing in 1938 at age 72, but Seaview would continue on as a living, growing entity and see many great championships, social events and interesting characters.

Wilfrid reid, Geist’s first golf pro, didn’t last long. From Nottingham, England, home of robin Hood, reid was a good tournament player and stayed at the top of the leaderboard with the best. But at a pre-1913 US Open tournament at Shawnee in East Stroudsburg, Pa., he got into a fist fight with British champion Ted ray.

itors they wouldn’t take the US Open trophy home with them. McDermott’s remarks put golf on the front pages of most newspapers worldwide and created great international interest in the 1913 US Open.

The argument began in the Shawnee locker room where Johnny McDermott, the 20-year-old Atlantic City pro and two-time US Open defending champion, had already created considerable controversy after winning the tournament by eight strokes and promising the foreign vis-

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Meanwhile Wilfrid reid, who was second after the first round at Shawnee, had words about politics with Ted ray. reid later said he asked ray how he could be a socialist while making so much money playing golf. That was enough to spark ray to take a swing at reid, and, like McDermott, the gentleman had to publicly apologize.

While Brits Harry Vardon and Ted ray would tour the United States a number of times, Wilfrid reid’s

1913 visit was his first. He liked America and took up Geist’s offer to be Seaview Country Club’s first golf professional, which was also making news because of its refined extravagance.

For some reason Geist wasn’t happy with Wilfrid reid, and while discussing this matter over drinks with some other rich power brokers and golf club owners, they decided to switch golf pros. So Wilfrid reid and his contract were traded like a sports star to the Wilmington Golf Club in Delaware, while the golf pro there went to Garden City in New York, and the pro there, James “Jolly Jim” Fraser, would become the second golf pro at Seaview.

Fraser was probably the cornerstone to that “triple-switch,” as the sports writers of the day called it, since he was from Scotland where the Fraser name is proudly carved onto rocks at the Highland battlefields depicted in the movie “Braveheart.”

That’s not the only place where the Frasers have left their mark. Turns out that Fraser’s arrival would forever change golf in South Jersey.

Next Week: Jim Fraser’s enduring legacy.

Clarence Geist

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Whitney’s Weekly Picks

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

Who: Teenage Halloween

Where: Anchor rock Club

When: Friday, March 8 Time: 7:45 p.m.

Website: anchorrockclub.com

“Stand by your friends that are hurting.” That’s what New Jersey power punks Teenage Halloween do through soaring arrangements of melodic, passion-packed two-minute dispatches, tackling topics from gender euphoria, to state abuses, and an eternal quest for mental well-being.

What: Premier of the celebrity boxing film, “The 16th Minute.”

Where: Showboat Atlantic City

When: Friday, March 8 Time: 8:30 p.m.

Website: eventbrite.com/e/ 850213520527

See the documentary film about the wild world of celebrity boxing, produced and directed by Eric Hansen.

What: Atlantic City St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Where: Atlantic City Boardwalk

When: Saturday, March 9 Time: 1 p.m.

Website: acstpatricksdayparade.com

The historic Atlantic City St. Patrick's Day Parade takes place Saturday, March 9, on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. On this day everyone is Irish. Break out your green and head up to the Boardwalk for a fun-filled family day in Atlantic City! The grand marshals are Steve Troiano, proprietor of Maynard’s Cafe; and award-winning actor Kelsey Grammer.

What: Napoleon Dynamite Live!

Where: Ocean Casino resort | Ovation Hall

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 8 p.m.

Website:

theoceanac.com/entertainment/ headliners/napoleon-dynamite-live

This unique evening includes a full screening of “Napoleon Dynamite” followed by a lively, freewheeling discussion with fan-favorite cast members Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite), Jon Gries (Uncle rico) and Efren ramirez (Pedro).

Who: Tamia & Joe

Where: Hard rock Hotel & Casino

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 8 p.m.

What: St. Patrick’s Day Parade After Party

Where: Josie Kelly’s Public House

When: Saturday, March 9 Time: 3 p.m.

Website: josiekellys.com/event/ the-official-st-patricks-day-paradeafter-party

Just after the Atlantic City parade, head straight to Josie Kelly's for the afterparty. Expect a sea of green and a full day of shenanigans including entertainment by Emerald Isle Academy Irish Dancers, Nae Breeks Bagpipes and Drums, Tom Brett and Bill Felix and for the finale, Stealing Savanah.

Website: hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com/ event-calendar/tamia-and-joe

Tamia and Joe, two powerhouse vocalists, will serenade you with their chart-topping hits and soul-stirring duets.

What: Celebrity Boxing March Mayhem

Where: Showboat Atlantic City

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: officialcelebrityboxing.com

The official celebrity boxing title bouts include live music performances and the premier screening of the “The 16th Minute Movie” showcasing the Lamar Odom, Aaron Carter event journey the night before.

The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman

Who: Pete Marziano performs

Where: Good Dog Bar

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Website: gooddogbar.com/atlantic-city

Good Dog Bar in Atlantic City is all about good times. Enjoy good food, good drinks and their second-floor game room.

What: The Mad Bunny Bar | Madder than Ever | Opening Night

Where: resorts Casino Hotel

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: resortsac.com/news/2024/ the-mad-bunny-madder-than-everbar-set-to-takeover-resorts-casinohotels-bar-one-this-march

Step into a scientific lab where the Mad Bunny crafts vibrant cocktails. Indulge in drink specials, live music, and promotions. Don’t miss a photo opportunity with the Mad Bunny every Saturday night in March.

What: A Very Brady Murder: A Murdery Parody

Where: resorts Casino Hotel

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 5 p.m. & 8 p.m.

Website: resortsac.com/entertainment/murder-mystery-atlantic-city

The Bradys are behaving badly! It’s a Very Brady Murder and they need YOU to help solve the crime! Listen closely, gather the clues, and try to deduce who the killer is and win the prize. Cocktails will be available for purchase during the performance. Enjoy a meal prior to the show in one of resorts Casino Hotel’s award-winning restaurants.

Who: Lovelight Band with Mark Diomede

Where: Pitney Pub

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 7-11 p.m.

Website: https://www.facebook.

com/ThePitney

Head to Pitney Pub to see this band.

What: Primal Men Male revue

Where: Kiss Kiss Nightclub

When: Saturday, March 9

Time: 7-10 p.m.

Website: primalmenlive.com

Prepare to live out your wildest fantasies as the Primal Men Male revue shows you the true nature of male entertainment with a tantalizing, sexy and energetic show. Tickets to Primal Men Male revue include admission to Kiss Kiss Nightclub after the show.

What: Taco Thursday

Where: Gregory’s restaurant & Bar

When: Thursdays

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Website: gregorysbar.com

The Original Taco Thursday! Serving

up Gregory’s famous hard shell beef tacos every Thursday starting at 3 p.m.

Who: Motown Forever

Where: Borgata’s The Music Box

When: Sunday’s until April 28

Time: 4 p.m.

Website: borgata.mgmresorts.com/ en/entertainment/the-music-box/ motown-forever

Motown Forever is a tribute show featuring a highly talented cast of singers, dancers and musicians. Performing the greatest hits from The Temptations, The Jacksons, and many more, this show creates a true celebration live on stage! You'll see it, hear it and feel it all at Borgata's Music Box.

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!

Why Borgata has rethought its entertainment policy

By Chuck Darrow

Once upon a time, and for many years, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa was the undisputed entertainment leader in Atlantic City. Year after year the gaming hall’s 2,500-seat Event Center would host not just “A-list” acts, but A-plus listers: Among the super-duperstars who gigged there were David Bowie, Bob Dylan, The Who, robin Williams, Michael Buble, Stevie Wonder, Sting (with his musical sidekick Shaggy) and Paul Simon (not to mention Billy Joel, whose July, 2007 set was for invited guests only (read: high rollers and other VIPs).

Back then, it was not unusual for the bayside pleasure dome to host three--or even four--headliners in a weekend (with less-prominent acts booking the 1,000-seat Music Box).

But, as it’s said, things change.

Today, Borgata’s main performance spaces are only in use once or twice a month. So what happened? Why is the casino no longer Atlantic City’s showplace?

According to the man responsible for the property’s show biz operations, part of the situation is by design, while another part is due to the shifting sands of the local gaming industry.

According to Gerard Mills, the gambling den’s director of entertainment, things began to change when Borgata acquired serious competition with the 2018 opening (on the same day in June) of Hard rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Ocean Casino resort, both of which have venues (7,000and 5,200-seat respectively) larger than the Event Center. To make matters worse for Borgata, Hard rock had—and continues to have-a nationwide relationship with the concert-promotion behemoth Live Nation Entertainment. As such, suggested Mills, booking acts “became a little more interesting.”

Borgata and MGM resorts could have entered into massive bidding wars for talent, but that likely caused plenty of agita among the bean counters at MGM resorts’ Las Vegas headquarters. So, offered Mills, they readjusted their entertainment strategy.

Smithville Inn

6pm - 9pm

$75 per person

“We have a very loyal player base here, so now, we are catering to our players” as opposed to concentrating on the folks who simply want to attend a concert, he explained. “What do our players want to see? What do they want to hear? What kind of music? And so we're kind of tailoring our entertainment programming to what our players are looking for.

“The main [goal of] Borgata is giving customers an experience. We don't want people to just come buy a ticket, see a show, and then leave. We want them to come and get a hotel room for the weekend. We want them to eat in our restaurants. We want them to see a show.

“It's more of an experience, and that's the type of customer that we're looking for, someone who's going to come in and stay for the weekend, and not a get-in-and-get-out kind of thing. We're a fully immersive resort and that's really the game that we're looking to play.

“We just want to be a little more selective, in the acts that we're choosing now.”

This is not to suggest that Borgata has totally left the big-name act realm. Jerry Seinfeld, who has been a signature act for a number of years, remains in the fold (he’s due back March 16). And Mills is especially proud of the June 21 Event Center booking of r&B titan John Legend.

Legend, said Mills, “Doesn't necessarily tour a lot, but we got him. That's a quality act for us. And it will be an intimate experience in the Event Center. Those are the kind of shows that we're looking to do. We want to give people a big bang for their buck; give 'em a ‘Wow!’ moment. They don't want to be sitting 300 feet away from an artist in an arena.”

While Legend and Seinfeld are the two biggest names on the Borgata calendar thus far this year, they’re hardly the only noteworthy attractions. Among other bookings are those of cerebral British comedian Jimmy Carr (April 27) political provocateur (and host of HBO’s “ real Time”) Bill Maher (May 18), and ‘70s rockers Bachman-Turner Overdrive (Sept.13).

Mills is also enthusiastic about the series of once-a-week production shows being staged in the Music Box. Currently running is “Motown Forever” (Sunday afternoons through April 28), to be followed by the 11th annual edition of the adults-only rave-up, “The Burlesque Show” (Thursdays beginning May 9). He had high praise for the shows’ impresario, Allen Valentine, who, for a number of years, has pretty much singlehandedly kept alive the casino-revue tradition in Atlantic City.

“He is a guy that came to town back in the ’80s as a magician, and saw that there wasn't a lot of revue shows going on, and he took a concept and he's been here ever since,” he said. “We love that he's local; he's not coming from out of state. He’s a great promoter.”

For more on Borgata entertainment, go to theborgata.com.

Superfrico hosts tequila dinner

March 13, Superfrico, the “Italian-American Psychedelic” restaurant inside The Hook theater at Caesars Atlantic City, is hosting a specially prepared dinner featuring libations from the Don Julio line of tequila.

The repast begins with rigatoni All’Amatriciana paired with Don Julio reposado. The main course is a choice of filet mignon or grouper served with Don Julio ‘70th Anejo Cristalino. That will be followed by a tiramisu/Don Julio Anejo combo. The fee is $99 per person. For reservations go to superfrico.com and click on “Happenings.”

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

Atlantic City Headliners

Friday, March 8

One Vision of Queen feat. Marc Martel

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Jubin Nautiyal

▶8:30 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Saturday, March 9

Tamia & Joe

▶8 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Napoleon Dynamite Live

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Sunday, March 10

Motown Forever

▶4 p.m. Music Box at Borgata

Friday, March 15

Voyage: Celebrating the Music of Journey

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Saturday, March 16

Bert Kreischer

▶7 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Tony Orlando

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at resorts

Jerry Seinfeld

▶8 p.m.

Borgata Event Center

Voyage: Celebrating the Music of Journey

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Friday, March 22

Breaking Benjamin w/ Daughtry & Catch Your Breath

▶8 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Saturday, March 23

Yacht Rock Revue

▶8 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Friday, March 29

Brit Floyd

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Saturday, March 30

Aaron Lewis

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Brit Floyd

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Saturday, April 6

SESSANTA: Primus, Puscifer, A Perfect Circle

▶8 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Lit in AC: Rick Ross, Jeezy, and Remy Ma

▶7 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

The Best of The Eagles

▶8 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom

Friday, April 12

Dean Cole

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, April 13

Musiq Soulchild & Eric Benet

▶8 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom

Friday, April 19

Ben Folds and a Piano Tour

▶9 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, April 20

Daybreak: The Music & Passion of Barry Manilow

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at resorts

A Bronx Tale

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Friday, April 26

Dionne Warwick

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Saturday, April 27

John Eddie

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at resorts

The Stylistics

▶9 p.m.

Superstar Theater at resorts

Jimmy Carr

▶7 p.m. & 10 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

On-Sale This Week

Donny Osmond

▶Sun. July 7, 7 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Barenaked Ladies

▶Sun. June 22, 8 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom

Black Eyed Peas

▶Sun. Aug. 4, 8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Kevin James: Owls Don’t Walk

▶Sat. Sept. 14, 7:30 p.m.

Hard rock Live at Etess Arena

Whitney Cummings: Big Baby

▶Sat. Oct. 12, 8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard rock

Dave Smith

▶Sat. June 1, 8 p.m.

Harrah’s Atlantic City

Jeff Arcuri

▶Fri. June 28, 7 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

All tickets on-sale Friday, Mar. 8, 10 a.m.

Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, March 7

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge

Live Music

5:30 – 9 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

DJ Jason Weiss

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

Stealing Savannah

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Sean Patrick & The Alibis

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk

Millville

Levoy Theatre

Taylor Dayne

7:30 p.m. 126-130 N. High St.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Sweet Jersey Band Duo

4 – 7 p.m.

Karaoke Hosted by Mike Dempsey

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Gregory’s

Chris Yoder

6 – 8 p.m. 900 Shore rd.

Queen Jayne’s Sidestory Duo

6 – 9 p.m. 264 New rd.

Friday, March 8

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Jeremy Oren

6 p.m. Kevin Story

9:15 p.m. 500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

Teenage Halloween

8 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave.

Bar One at Resorts

Dance Force

6 – 9 p.m. DJ Chaz

9 p.m. – 2 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk

Council Oak Lounge

Christopher Farrell Trio

5 – 8 p.m.

DJ B

8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Hard Rock Café

Dueling Pianos

9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk

Kelsey’s

Eddie Morgan Trio

7:30 – 10:30 p.m.

1545 Pacific Ave.

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Jumper Trio

7 p.m.

Hometown radio

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Amanda & Teddy

6 – 10 p.m.

Big Bang Baby

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall

DJ Skyline

9 p.m. – 12 a.m.

133 S. Tennessee Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dirty Dance Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Event Horizon

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Wave at Golden Nugget

Queen Flash: Queen Tribute

9 – 10:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Yard at Bally’s

DJ Adub

7 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

DB Trio

9:30 p.m. 500 Boardwalk

Brigantine

The Pub at St. George’s Busted Velvet

8 p.m. 4282 Brigantine Blvd.

Egg Harbor Township

The Roost Pub & Grill

Tony & Kim Duo

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr.

Margate

Bocca

CJ Sooy

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Jersey Steve from Atley Moon

7:30 p.m. 316 roosevelt Blvd.

Millville

Levoy Theatre

The Kings of Queen

8 p.m. 126-130 N. High St.

Smithville

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Smokey Starr

7 – 10 p.m.

1 N. New York rd.

↘Continued on 40

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Big Juke Box Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Josie Kelly’s

The Jenny Barnes Band

8 p.m. 908 Shore rd.

Saturday, March 9

Absecon

Reddog’s Hi Point Pub

Big Daddy Duo

8 p.m. 5 N. Shore rd.

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Hames Nathan Hopkins

6 p.m. Dom Martino

9:15 p.m. 500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

Gideon

6:30 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave.

Council Oak Lounge

Vahe Sarkissian Trio

5 – 8 p.m.

DJ Smoove

8:30 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

Indelible Groove Duo

7 p.m. Kicking Sunrise

10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Blue Street Band

5 – 9 p.m.

Priceless

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall

Glenn roberts

2 – 8 p.m. 133 S. Tennessee Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Audio riot

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Mad Bunny Bar at Resorts

The Kilted rogues Irish Bagpipers

4 – 7 p.m.

Sidestory

5 – 8 p.m.

DJ Gary

9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

The Royce Social Hall

DJ Evan Edge

9 p.m.

2831 Pacific Ave.

The Yard at Bally’s

DJ Vito G

1 – 6 p.m.

Kristen and the Noise

2 – 6 p.m.

DJ Philly Will

8 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Adam Holcombe Trio

9:30 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Margate

Maynard’s Café

The Chris Yoder Band

5 – 9 p.m.

9306 Amherst Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Petty Cash

7:30 p.m. 316 roosevelt Blvd.

Millville

Levoy Theatre

Eaglemania: The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band

8 p.m.

126-130 N. High St.

Northfield

Taproom at Atlantic City Country Club

ralph Michaels

5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

1 Leo Fraser Dr.

Smithville

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Tony Caine

7 – 10 p.m. 1 N. New York rd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Doug Jennings

4 – 7 p.m.

Surrounded by Idiots

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Josie Kelly’s

Tom & Bill

5 p.m.

Emerald Isle Academy of Irish

Dancers

5:30 p.m.

Stealing Savannah

8 p.m.

Nea Breeks Pipes & Drums

9 p.m.

908 Shore rd.

Sunday, March 10

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge

Greg Clark

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

Dueling Pianos

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

3AM Tokyo Duo

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Hometown radio

4 – 7:30 p.m.

Mystery Machine

8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Margate

Bocca

Doug Jennings

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

The O’Fenders Band

3 – 7 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Josie Kelly’s

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Tuesday, March 12

Atlantic City

Traditional Irish Open Session

1 – 4 p.m.

908 Shore rd.

Monday, March 11

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget red

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Slay Town City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Patty & Bugzy

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Yani

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Josie Kelly’s DJ Special K

5 – 9 p.m.

908 Shore rd.

Wednesday, March 13

Absecon

Reddog’s Hi Point Pub

Acoustic Wednesdays

7 – 10 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

Daddy Pop

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.

Dane Anthony. Photo by John Loreaux

Knife & Fork Inn: 112 years old and counting

By Bruce Klauber

The years 1900 to 1920 were a time of unprecedented growth in Atlantic City. records show that in 1890, the city’s population was around 13,000. By 1915, the number of residents was close to 52,000. When weekend visitors were factored in, let’s just say that the numbers were incredible.

This growth translated into building more hotels, more homes, more saloons – one estimate read that there were more than 200 bars in Atlantic City by the turn of the century – and of course, more restaurants.

While there’s no official record of how many restaurants were operating in Atlantic City during that period, we know at least two that were open and operating: Dock’s Oyster House, which opened in 1897; and the Knife & Fork Inn, which opened its doors in 1912.

Though it’s hard to believe, both Dock’s and the Knife and Fork are not only still in business, they are thriving and absolutely mobbed –year round, seven days per week.

The Knife & Fork has quite a history. Built by Louis Kuehnle, a powerful politician who owned the Kuehnle Hotel at South Carolina and Pacific avenues, he became such a force in

Atlantic City politics that he “took over de facto political control of the city,” according to “Boardwalk Empire” author Nelson Johnson.

With an assist from then-Mayor William r iddle, the Knife & Fork first opened as a drinking club for men only. The first-floor bar was said to be lavishly furnished; the females who accompanied their gentlemen friends waited on the second floor. The third and fourth floors had private rooms of various sizes, which were used for gambling and, shall we say, for other purposes.

The fact that Prohibition became law on Jan. 19, 1919, meant nothing to those who ran the Knife & Fork. The consumption of alcohol did not take place in hidden backrooms; it was all out in the open, which is why the venue was frequently raided by the federal government. By the mid1920s, the feds had had it. They not only raided the place again, but they destroyed a good portion of the bar and everything in it.

That was the turning point. The club was sold to the Latz Family in 1927, and because the family had no idea when or if Prohibition would

ever be repealed, the decision was made to turn the Knife & Fork into a restaurant.

Under the Latz ownership, operation of the Knife & Fork became a family affair. Milton and Evelyn, who lived on the restaurant’s third floor, ran the restaurant until Milton’s passing in 1948. Their sons, Mack and Jim, took over in that year and helped transform the restaurant into not only a tourist destination, but the place to meet, dine and drink for powerful locals and visiting celebrities. Mack and Jim had a parting of the ways around 1985, but the restaurant continued to do great business under Mack’s iron hand.

And an iron hand it was. Mack was a character, and stories about him, on both the local and national

levels, are legion. The Los Angeles Times described him as “notoriously cranky” and “known to chew out or eject customers” if he didn’t like their behavior. The Press of Atlantic City deemed him “notoriously gruff.” I experienced his wrath firsthand in the early 1980s. At that time the Knife & Fork would only take reservations for parties of four and up. The colleagues who took me there for dinner one evening thought they could pull a fast one on Latz by making a reservation for four, when in actuality, we were only a party of three. The plan was to tell the maître d’ that we were waiting for the other party, even though the other party would never show up. It wasn’t

↘Continued on 44

long until our table was visited by Mack Latz, who said something like, “I know what you guys are doing. You’re lucky I don’t throw you out.”

By the late 1990s, Latz was closing in on 80 years of age. He decided to retire, but had no luck selling the

since Dock’s opened its doors 127 years ago. The Doughertys not only refurbished the entire restaurant, they restored its reputation as a landmark.

The key to the inn’s continued success is the careful balance between maintaining tradition, while

business. It was a time of transition in Atlantic City and those in the restaurant business were not sure if there was still room for venues like the Knife & Fork Inn, which personified the city’s tradition.

Sadly, it closed for two years. The prevailing belief was that history had passed it by and that it likely would never reopen. Mack’s son, Andrew, didn’t agree, and he reopened it, although he was still looking for a buyer.

In 2005, the Knife & Fork was purchased by the Dougherty Family, owners of Dock’s Oyster House

focusing on the tastes and demands of today’s diners.

Maureen Shay and her husband, Frank Dougherty, are the restaurant’s co-owners. I asked Maureen to clarify the thought process behind the sensitive, “tradition versus today” balancing act.

“In order to stay relevant,” she explained, “you have to keep up not only with what people are eating, but how they are eating, and provide the right ambience to enjoy it in.

“When we first took over the Knife & Fork in 2005, it was in need of repairs and updates both inside

and out. It was always our intention to maintain the unique character and history of the building, while installing completely modern systems.

“Certain aspects of the renovation have allowed us to keep pace in the nearly 20 years that followed. The most visible was the construction of a 24-seat bar. We recognized that dining habits were changing and that more people were opting to eat a full dinner at the bar, in addition to just cocktails and appetizers.”

The menu, cocktail and wine lists had to reflect this “contemporary tradition” as well.

“We kept traditional favorites like

sourcing and sustainability. Our craft cocktail list also changes seasonally and reflects growing bespoke cocktail trends. We’ve paired with several liquor brands to create our own blends, with slightly different aging and flavor profiles, and that forms the base of our signature cocktails.”

Alan richman is an award-winning and notoriously difficult-to-please author and food writer. In a piece written a few seasons ago for Saveur Magazine, richman simply couldn’t rave enough about the Knife & Fork Inn.

you see in a museum, lifted intact from a palace in Europe and transported whole so visitors can stare at it from behind a velvet rope. The paneling gleams. The stained glass glows at sunset. The ceiling reminds me of Versailles.

“My mother would have loved the Knife & Fork. She would have been dazzled by the dining room and, uncommon for her, would not have said not a negative word about the food. I felt enormously satisfied by the experience, which was everything I dreamed it would be.”

The Knife & Fork Inn may be 112 years old, but the dining experience, in terms of food and service, remains

very much today. That’s a challenge, as Maureen Shay explained, but it works. One recent visitor made this comment on Open Table: “As good as it gets!”

For a restaurant that’s 112 years old and counting, that’s pretty good. Here’s to 112 more.

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.

Book your seats for these big names coming to Atlantic City

By Sarah Fertsch

As the sun begins to cast its warm embrace upon the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City gears up for another season of electrifying entertainment. Amidst the shimmering lights and the rhythmic pulse of the boardwalk, anticipation surges as some of the biggest names in music prepare to grace the stages of this iconic coastal destination. From chart-topping pop sensations to legendary rock icons, the lineup for Atlantic City's summer headliner concerts promises an unforgettable spectacle for music enthusiasts of all tastes and ages.

Which superstars do you wanna see? We’ve curated the perfect list of acts to add to your summer 2024 bucket list. Check it out below:

1. Pete Davidson

July 20, Ocean Casino

The "Saturday Night Live" alum will be visiting Atlantic City on his "Prehab" tour. Pete is known for his millennial sarcasm and appearances in films such as "Trainwreck" and "The King of Staten Island."

2. Motley Crue

May 3 & 4, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

The heavy metal band featuring Tommy Lee Jones will be rocking the stage just before Memorial Day. Their sound is a blend between Black Sabbath and David Bowie, inspiring the modern emo music scene.

3. Steve Martin & Martin Short

May 18, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Steve Martin and Martin Short's live comedy show is an unmissable experience that guarantees side-splitting laughter from start to finish. With their unmatched comedic timing and razor-sharp wit, these two comedy legends deliver an evening of hilarity that will leave you in stitches.

4. Matt Rife

July 27, Ocean Casino

The controversial comedian will be sure to make waves across from the Atlantic City beach. He was "canceled" a few months ago, but his shows are still selling out quickly.

5. Kelly Clarkson

May 11, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Talk host, platinum artist, and "The Voice" judge, Clarkson is truly

a pop culture icon. She’s known for hits like "Since You’ve Been Gone," "Miss Independent," and "Stronger." Seeing Kelly Clarkson live in Atlantic City is an experience that promises an unforgettable evening filled with powerhouse vocals, infectious energy, and a dynamic stage presence.

6. Penn & Teller

May 16, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Penn & Teller's live show is a captivating blend of comedy, magic, and illusion that has enthralled audiences for decades. r enowned for their irreverent humor and innovative approach to magic, the duo delivers an unforgettable experience that defies expectations. From mind-bending tricks to jaw-dropping stunts, every moment of their performance is infused with wit and wonder.

7. John Legend

accolades including Grammy Awards and induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

9. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

June 22, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Whether you're reliving the magic of the '60s or discovering their music for the first time, experiencing Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons live is

an unforgettable journey through the golden age of American music.

June 21, Borgata Event Center

His voice will move you. The "All of Me" vocalist awes crowds with his soulful, butter-smooth voice. Beyond the music, Legend's concerts often incorporate storytelling and personal anecdotes, creating an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact on all who attend.

8. Dionne Warwick

April 26, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Warwick has captivated audiences around the world with timeless hits such as "Walk on By" and "I Say a Little Prayer." renowned for her versatility, the legend has explored various genres including pop, r&B, and gospel, earning her numerous

10. Ludacris and T.I.

July 27, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Get ready to break it down. The masterminds behind rap jams like "Bring Em Out" and "My Chick Bad" will be laying down some verses this summer. Ludacris was featured during the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show with Usher and Lil Jon.

11. Heart

May 24, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Attending a Heart concert is an electrifying experience that leaves fans exhilarated and wanting more. Ann and Nancy Wilson, the driving forces behind Heart, command the stage with their powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence.

Galicia: Northern Spain’s home to great white wine

By David Setley

Wines from Spain are arguably one of the best values in the wine industry. While the quality continues to improve, the prices remain reasonable. Spain is most known for their outstanding red wines, such as Tempranillo wines of La rioja, and Garnacha wines from Catalonia. However, for this article, I’d like to focus on the great white wines produced in the Galicia wine region of Northern Spain.

In Spain, Denominaciones de Origen (D.O.), translated to Designation of Origin, are wine-growing regions that have been classified as unique for their characteristics and quality. Galicia is a D.O. located in the far northwestern region of the Iberian Peninsula and is Spain’s most northern region, sitting directly above Portugal, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the west and

FISH

northern sides. The Galicia region is famous for the medieval pilgrimage trail: the Camino de Santiago, or the “way of St. James.” This 500-mile trail begins in Saint Jean Pied de Port, France, winds through northern Spain and parts of Portugal, and ends at the grave of the Apostle Saint James the Great at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. Since the 9th century, pilgrims have made this month-long walking journey.

The maritime climate of the Galicia region plays a major role in the varietals of grapes that do well there. Often called “the Green Corner,” the region’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean invites plenty of sun, cool breezes, high humidity, and fairly high amounts of annual rainfall. Winemaking began when Galicia, and most of Europe, were part of the roman Empire. After the empire fell, winemaking was taken over by the Cistercian monks. Winemakers there still give credit to the monks for the quality of the vineyards and their grapevines. By the 14th century, the quality of Galicia’s wine was becoming well-known, to the point where vine clippings were shared with countries throughout Europe. Wine production continued to thrive until the 19th century when the

nation fell into a serious depression. A significant number of winemakers emigrated to Portugal and South America to salvage their livelihoods, and many vineyards were abandoned. It wasn’t until 1986 and an influx of funding from the European Union that Galicia’s wine industry was restarted.

The overwhelming majority of grapes grown in the Galicia wine region are white, with Albariño being the most prolific grape by far, accounting for more than 50% of all grapes grown in the D.O. of Galicia. Albariño has a very thick skin, which serves it well in the humid environment of rías Baixas, the subregion most known for growing this white grape. The thick skin helps the grape avoid mold and mildew rot that can be damaging to thinner-skinned varietals. The cool ocean breezes and the mild temperatures of the high-altitude vineyards in rías Baixas prevent the grapes from overripening and result in its wine’s crisp, bright acidity. An outstanding example of a rías Baixas Albariño is the La Cana Albariño. The wine is crisp and fresh with fruit flavors dominated by tree fruit, such as white peaches, pears, slightly under-ripe green apples, and a touch of lime zest. There is a clear minerality to this wine domi -

nated by light sea mist, jasmine, honey, and ginger. Albariño is a wonderful pairing with fish, chicken, fresh vegetables, and sushi meals.

The second most planted grape in the Galicia region is one you may be less familiar with: Godello, pronounced go-day-yo. The subregion of Valdeorras is most recognized for Godello. The romans gave the area its name, which means “Valley of Gold.” Unlike rías Baixas, Valdeorras is about 100 miles inland with its vineyards located in the mountains. The subregion has one of the lowest average daily temperatures and lowest annual rainfalls of any region in Spain. The soil is granite and slate, perfect for growing zesty white varietals. I highly recommend the Ladera Sagrada-Castelo do Papa Godello. Papa Godello is a perfect representation of the terroir and the winery selects the best Godello grapes to produce the wine. The resulting wine is clean and well-balanced with notes of melon, peach, and a touch of lemon. There is a persistent minerality that demonstrates the stony soil in which these grapes have grown. It goes well with grilled fish or poultry, but is pretty versatile for a great many dishes.

M A H I M A H I R U E B E N 1 8 b l a c k e n e d m a h i o n g r i l l e d r y e w i t h R u s s i a n d r e s s i n g s a u r k r a u t a n d S w i s s c h e e s e & s i d e c o l e s l a w

S T U F F E D S H R I M P 2 5 c r a b s t u ff e d s h r i m p w i t h m a s h e d p o t a t o & g r i l l e d a s p a r a g u s

S T U F

Occasionally, I like to recommend a splurge-worthy wine to my readers; Allow me to do so now. Though Valdeorras is most recognized for Godello, ribeira Sacra, a subregion alongside the northwestern edge of Valdeorras, is recently being noticed for Godello as well. World-renowned winemaker, Paul Hobbs, has joined forces with Galician winemaker, Antonio Lopez Fernández, to create the Alvaredos-Hobbs ribeira Sacra Godello. This wine is viticultural artistry at its finest. A delicately aromatic white wine, it displays layered notes of lavender, citrus blossom, and tangerine, with hints of white pepper. This dry, medium-bodied wine is beautifully balanced with layered flavors, bright acidity, and a lingering finish. Absolutely worth the splurge.

I hope you enjoyed this venture to the cooler side of Spain, and consider giving the white wines of Spain a try. You will not be disappointed. As always contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com or stop by the Somers Point store if you have any questions or comments. 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.

New Development Team Awarded NJEDA Grant to grow 'Tenn Ave AC' - Atlantic City's new Main Street

By Erica Hoffman

There is an exciting, new, and forward-thinking development team taking Atlantic City by storm, MAP 3 Partners LLC. The unassuming yet perfectly matched trio submitted their New Jersey Economic Development Authority grant proposal in August 2023. Finally, after months of waiting and anticipation, MAP 3 learned in late January 2024 that

they received a grant of almost $2.5 million ($2,484,850 to be exact). The grant is part of an initiative to aid recovery for cities still trying to recover from the economic despair resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. r MS Capital will provide additional funding for the project.

MAP 3 Partners LLC consists of Mark Callazzo, visionary real estate developer and co-owner of five restaurants, bars, and live music spaces along the beach block of Ten -

nessee Avenue. Adam Zengel brings over twenty years of experience in marketing and event management. Zengel also boasts an impressive proven track record of building and executing numerous successful brand partnerships, large festivals, and events. rounding out the eclectic bunch is Paige Washington, Director of Development at Sister Jeans Kitchen. Among her many other qualifica-

tions, Washington is a prolific poet, avid gardener, teacher, and mother of four. She lends her undeniable social entrepreneurship knowledge to the group. The three work together seamlessly.

The plan for the grant is to continue bringing more life into the city. "Atlantic City doesn't have a 'Main Street'. We're focused on another transformation of Tennessee Avenue

to make it truly Atlantic City's town square," Callazzo remarked. The plan for "Tenn Ave AC" is to become home to a container park at 1400 Pacific Avenue on the corner of Tennessee Avenue.

People need to be more familiar with what a container park is and why they are growing in popularity around urban spaces. A container park is a green developer's dream. The concept allows someone to utilize a space, whether large or small. They are sustainable and watertight. Without this ingenuity, these containers would generally end up in a landfill or abandoned. That, added to the ease of construction and transport, makes container parks a no-brainer.

Furthermore, the grant aims to provide a unique opportunity between public and private entities while fostering sustainable and adaptable urban development. "This will become its own living, breathing entity," Washington stated excitedly. "The community will dictate the limits to what this can become. Anything is possible."

"This is as much a business venture as a community-owned creative space. We are very optimistic, even if that sounds generic. We are not limiting ourselves. We don't want to limit our potential for anything. Maybe it's not all containers. Maybe it grows into something else. There are so many things we're not even thinking of,"

Zengel added.

It's official: MAP 3 Partners LLC has arrived, and they mean business. What kind of business? That's up to the community. Shipping containers can be turned into almost anything. residential units or, like in Tenn Ave AC's case, can take on commercial uses like retail shops, restaurants, entertainment, or community spaces. Containers can connect, be built one on top of another, or be modular, providing endless possibilities.

We are excited to hear the community's thoughts: people's ideas, projects, stores, local farm stands, thoughts on classroom spaces, dedicated areas for community gather-

ings, art installations, and whatever else the community can come up with. No idea is too big, small, out of the box, weird, fun, educational, or delicious.

If you or your business are interested in becoming a part of the future of Atlantic City, now is the time. Maybe you just thought of your perfect plan, or you've been sitting on the one great idea that will take you to the next level. Whatever you are thinking, MAP 3 is ready to listen.

Construction is slated to start this year. The MAP 3 Partners are currently looking for tenants for the retail spaces and more. Those interested can contact info@tennaveac.com

THURSDAY

Blackstone

SATURDAY

Second

Upcoming AC shows celebrate all things Allman Brothers

Tune In, Turn On

By Doug Deutsch

Southern rock and The Allman Brothers Band have always been popular here at the Jersey Shore, going all the way back to 1971 when The Allman Brothers Band first played the Steel Pier. Subsequent ABB Atlantic City shows include at Trump Taj Mahal (now Hard rock) in 2000, the nowclosed Hilton Casino Hotel in 2003, the Borgata in 2005, and the House of Blues in 2006.

Additionally, the Gregg Allman Band performed at Borgata in 2015, and the Allman Betts Band on the Ocean City Music Pier in 2019.

On a personal note, we were thrilled to learn that Devon Allman, pictured here, will be returning to

Atlantic City Aug. 7 as part of the Mardi Gras in AC Summer Concert Series, presented by promoters Carmen and Nancy Marotta on the Atlantic City Boardwalk at Kennedy Plaza.

“I can’t wait to get back to Atlantic City and rock out in the Garden State. Always a good time,” Allman told us by email.

A son of the late Gregg Allman, Devon has enjoyed a successful career on his own performing with Duane Betts, son of ABB longtime guitarist Dickey Betts.

“There is no better ‘poster child’ for the roots-rock legacy of today’s jammin’ blues rocking music than Devon Allman, who does it all,” said Carmen Marotta, who has a long history of booking and working with Southern, New Orleans-flavored acts.

“He is a great writer, arranger, guitarist, singer and performer. His presence at a free show on the Boardwalk

is the quintessence of what we call ‘incredibly great and amazingly free’ concerts every Wednesday night, June 26 through September 4, at Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City,” Marotta said.

In my daytime job as a music publicist, I’ve worked as part of the publicity team for the Allman Betts Family revival Tour for the last few years, as well as for the Duane Betts tour last summer. Additionally, I was tour publicist for the late ABB founding member and drummer, Butch Trucks, and have continued working with Butch’s daughter, Melody Trucks, for many years now. My Allman Brothers roots run deep indeed.

(P.S. A Brothers revival, an ABB tribute featuring one-time ABB bassist David Goldflies, another ex-client, plays at Tropicana Casino-Hotel on May 25).

Other Allman Brothers Band-related shows coming to our South Jersey area include a performance by Michael Allman, also a son of Gregg Allman, at the Lizzie rose Music room in Tuckerton on May 4. There will be two shows including a 3 p.m. matinee.

Peach At The Beach, an ABBthemed festival-style event, will take place at the brand new Summer Concert Stage in front of Showboat’s Island Waterpark in Atlantic City on July 13. Headlined by Joe russo’s Almost Dead, also performing will be Dogs In A Pile, Trouble No More (performing the ABB’s classic album “Eat A Peach” in its entirety), Karina r ykman, Mykal rose (from the longtime reggae group Black Uhuru), plus DJ sets and Bourbon Ballroom pre-concert and after-concert parties.

This Saturday, March 9, we’ve been graciously invited by Carmen and Nancy Marotta to appear on their “Tony Mart’s Presents” radio show, heard over WPG 1450 AM, 95.5 FM

and www.tonymarts.com. We will discuss all sorts of things related to music, including the excellent upcoming schedule of concerts he’s booked

for the 2024 summer season at both Kennedy Plaza in Atlantic City, and Somers Point by the bay. The latter shows happen every Friday night all summer beginning at 7 p.m. Both concert series are always free and loads of fun!

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.

Brothers Revival

Devon Allman. Photos by John Loreaux

12:10p 2:30p 4:50p 7:10p 9:35p

By Bill Quain

In early January, I started my “Money, Sunny and Honey” series. I then tossed in a couple of time-sensitive “Happy Leap Year” columns. But now leap day has come and gone. Spring and summer seasons are not too far away. So I’m going to complete my “Money, Sunny and Honey” series with a big finish: “Honey, I’m Home. You Still Here?”. By the way, these are six words you should never say — at least, not out loud!

Let’s quickly revisit money and sunny.

Money is easy, right? You need money. “Sunny” is a little more obscure. If you recall from my earlier columns, “sunny” is your mental,

by Bill Quain

physical and emotional health. If you want to be successful in life, or even just a little bit happy, you need to pay attention to your mental, physical and emotional health. It will give you that “sunny” outlook. remember, the law of attraction states that we attract people who are similar to us. If we put out negative vibes, we attract negative people. If we put out “sunny” vibes, we attract other sunny people! Grumpy people don’t like to be around happy, positive people. Certainly, the reverse is true.

So, get some money and get “sunny”, before you try to get honey! It can be a long life if you get this wrong. When people ask me “Bill, shouldn’t

honey come first, before money?”, I always say, “If you haven’t got money, it won’t be very sunny, Honey!”

“Honey” is Your relationships. “Bee” busy.

If you want to enjoy strong, lasting and loving relationships, you need to “bee busy”, because busy bees make the best honey. Building relationships is not a job for the lazy or indifferent. Think about it. You are asking another human being to spend time with you, and possibly commit to you. This is a big deal! After all, you’re probably not the only candidate. If the other person is a good, caring, optimistic person, they will have choices. And, if the person you are after doesn’t have choices, think about this: Maybe you don’t either.

But let’s assume that you do manage to establish a good relationship. If you want it to grow and last, you need to get to work, every day. If you don’t, unless the other person is sleepwalking through life as well, they might just take a second look at who they have (or haven’t) got!

Forty years – We still keep busy.

On June 30, Jeanne and I will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. I was 31 when we got married, and Jeanne has still not disclosed her age to me. We’ve been through a lot together – professions, kids, houses, and businesses. We’ve had some

disagreements, ranging from “Who was supposed to turn the boat battery off?” (that one could have been bad) to “Should we put an angel or a star on top of the Christmas tree?”. Actually, that one ended in tragedy when one of us “accidentally” cut too much off the top of the tree to accommodate the star.

Before we were married, we had a long-distance relationship and had never lived in the same city. When we agreed to get married, we decided to bee busy and move to a neutral corner to start our lives together. We picked Las Vegas of all places! Great town by the way.

happen. Bee busy now, because that is how you attract someone.

wait around for honey. The world is full of stories of lonely people who waited.

And never ask, “You still here?”

Let’s go back to the six words on a Boardwalk bench that started this column. If you have to ask, “You still here?”, then it might be too late. Bee busy, and you won’t have to ask that question.

Now, bee busy and email me.

We’ve been busy dealing with sickness; I’m blind, and Jeanne battled cancer. We also were busy raising two great kids.

But one thing we always did was make time for each other, and we worked at it every single day. We knew that we had to bee busy to make the sweetest “honey”. And do you know what? It paid off!

Do you want honey? Bee busy!

Some of you might be saying, “I don’t have someone special in my life right now.” Well, the question is, “Do you want someone special?” If you do, don’t passively wait for it to

Others might be saying, “Well, I’m with someone right now, but we don’t have a strong relationship.” Do you want to have a strong relationship with that person? If so, bee busy right now, and see if you can sweeten that relationship back up. And don’t bee shy about it.

Spring is the season for honey.

Spring is the time when flowers bloom, and bees start their work. And spring is the perfect season to start your quest for honey! If you want someone, bee busy to attract them. If you already have someone, bee busy strengthening and sweetening that relationship. In other words, don’t

As always, I’d love to hear from you. Share your “bee busy” stories by emailing bill@quain. com. Visit my website, www.billquain. com to learn more about my speaking, my writing and my story. As I say each week, “I’ll see ya in the papers.”

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

GLORY TOOTSIE GREMLINS COCKTAIL SEVEN

SHREK AVATAR MOONSTRUCK SPEED SCARFACE

BABE RUDY PREDATOR HOOSIERS GOLDFINGER

CADDYSHACK ALIEN ELF AIRPLANE VACATION

SUPERMAN MISERY ROCKY BATMAN CLUELESS POLTERGEIST ALADDIN GOODFELLAS HALLOWEEN GHOST

TITANIC CINDERELLA JAWS

SHORE FUNNY MOVIE QUOTES

"If I'm not back in five minutes, just wait longer."

—Ace Ventura, Pet Detective

“You stink. You smell like beef and cheese. You don’t smell like Santa.” —Buddy in Elf

“I am serious, and don’t call me Shirley.”

—Dr. Rumack in Airplane

“The numbers all go to 11.” —Nigel Tufnel in Spinal Tap

I’ll be taking these Huggies and whatever cash you got.”

—H.I. McDunnough in Raising Arizona

“He slimed me.” —Peter Venkman in Ghostbusters

"Leave the gun. Take the cannoli."

—Clemenza in The Godfather

“Snakes. Why did it have to be snakes?”

—Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark

“Please. Have mercy. I’ve been wearing the same underwear since Tuesday.”

—Neal Page in Planes, Trains and Automobiles

“My father would womanize. He would drink. He would make outrageous claims like he invented the question mark.”

— Dr. Evil in Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery

“You’re gonna need a bigger boat.” —Chief Brody in Jaws

THEME: THE OSCARS

ACROSS

1. Anti-seniors sentiment

6. ____ Pérignon, Champagne

9. Big Bang's original matter

13. Prefix for earliest

14. Call to Maria

15. Bob and ____

16. "Peter, Peter Pumpkin ____"

17. "Le ____ des cygnes"

18. Like yesteryear

19. *Greta Gerwig's Oscar nominated movie

21. *He's nominated for playing Leonard Bernstein

23. Nothing

24. White ____ shopping event

25. Federal food safety agency, acr.

28. It ran away with the spoon

30. rOTC happenings

35. Figure skating jump

37. Grad

39. Arrogant one

40. Archaic preposition

41. Passé

43. Scrubbed

44. Sugarcoating

46. Money in Mexico City

47. What DJs do

48. Trickery

50. Swerves

52. Sigma Alpha Epsilon

53. *Typical number of nominations in one Oscar category

55. Emergency responder, acr.

57. *"Nyad" nominee

60. *What kind of moon?

63. "Finnegan's Wake" author

64. Mother load offering

66. Java cotton tree

68. Artemis' companion

69. Fat of olives

70. *What actors do

71. Spinner's product

72. Wisecrack

73. Like Phoenix

DOWN

1. Cornelius of the movies

2. Snap up

3. 'I' in Greek alphabet

4. Howard of radio fame

5. Death-related

6. One of the Earnhardts

7. Spermatozoa counterparts

8. Muhammad's birthplace

9. review service, with .com

10. Use a ladle

11. At any time

12. *"No Country for Old ____" multi Oscar winner

15. Suitors

20. Trojan War story

22. "Just an ____-fashioned love song"

24. Slumber

25. Fl., as in fl. oz.

26. "A Confederacy of ____," sing.

27. Place above a ceiling

29. Dueler's strike

31. Overnight lodgings

32. Shoelace bunny ears

33. Divine saying

34. *Producer and star of "Poor Things"

36. *"The ____ of Interest"

38. Table hill

42. Wooden pin

45. *Like nominated ones

49. Love-love, e.g.

51. Meat-cooking contraption

54. roaring of an engine

56. Hindu religious teacher

57. Forum, pl.

58. Deed hearing

59. Medical diagnostic test

60. Abe Lincoln's hat material

61. #20 Down, e.g.

62. Traditional learning method

63. *Da'Vine ____ randolph

65. Orinoco or Grande

67. *r yan Gosling's character

See Solution on Page 62

The best days during the worst times

By Eric Reich

While I have previously written about the importance of staying fully invested and the dangers of missing the best days in the market, I haven’t highlighted when many of those “best days” have occurred. It might surprise you to know that many of the best days for the stock market came during some of the worst overall time periods. This week, I want to show the relation of both missing the best market days and when they occurred in order to help demonstrate why it is so important to stay invested even during times when everything seems grim.

First, let’s start with what investment performance has looked like over the last 25 years ending Dec. 31, 2021. We will then assume that an investor missed only a small amount of those days. The starting assump -

tion is that you invested $100,000 on Jan. 1, 1997. Assuming you invested it in the S&P 500 index directly (which you can’t, so you must assume a small amount for fees) you would have accumulated the following amounts:

● Fully invested: $1,025,434 which equals an annualized return of 12.34%

● Missed the 10 best days: $469,788 or 8.06%

● Missed the 20 best days: $277,277 or 5.25%

● Missed the 30 best days: $176,239 or 2.89%

● Missed the 40 best days: $116,977 or 0.79%

● Missed the 50 best days: $79,603 or (-1.15%)

● Missed the 60 best days: $55,669 or (-2.92%)

Missing only the best 40 days out of 25 years or 9125 days would have caused an investor nearly to break even instead of growing their investments by more than 10 times! Do you really believe you can predict which 40 days over the next 25 years will be the best? No, I can’t either.

I believe that what is more surprising than what these numbers show is that of the 30 best days of the last 25 years, all but six of them came during

major market meltdowns. Here is the breakdown of when they occurred during periods of extreme volatility:

● Six of the best days came during the tech crash of 2000-2001.

● Six more of the best days came during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic from January 2020 to March 2020.

● Twelve of these best days came during the financial crisis of 2008. If you can’t guess what days will be the best, you certainly won’t guess most of them are likely to occur during some of the most volatile time periods, when investors are least likely to want to make risky investments. For this reason, I can’t stress enough the importance of staying fully invested even when your gut tells you not to.

Source: Bloomberg L.P. 1/1/9712/31/21. For illustrative purposes only and not intended as investment advice. This does not predict or depict the performance of any particular investment. An investment cannot be made directly into an index. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment ad-

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

Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations.

March Madness real estate market is here

Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

The arrival of March brings us one step closer to spring, and prime season for the real estate market.

When assessing and in preparing for selling your home and in placing your home on the market for sale, many believe, and statistics show, that springtime is the ideal time to get your plan into action. When looking to purchase, spring buyers will have more homes to choose from as well.

Game On

real estate is often compared to a sporting event. We are now well into the “first quarter of the game,” finishing up strong in the first quarter of the year.

The dynamics of the market are always changing and understanding trends and statistics will only help your gameplan. The local housing inventory in the beginning of 2024 is experiencing a shortage. This includes here in the Shore Local areas of Northfield, Linwood, Somers Point, all Mainland communities and shore communities of Atlantic County, Ocean City and of our Atlantic City metro area and surrounding areas.

Most homes are selling relatively quickly, some with multiple bids and in some cases, over asking price, depending on location, condition and price point. Now is the time to optimize the sale price of your home.

There are buyers who are ready, willing, qualified and waiting on the sidelines to purchase, and will pay you top dollar for your

home. The fact is if you want to cash in, now is the time.

Don't Sit on the Sidelines

Keep in mind that the dynamics of real estate are always changing. The demand for housing may be strong, but more new construction is being built to accommodate that demand.

Economic indicators predict that the Federal reserve will spend most of 2024 fighting inflation to keep interest rates down, so now is the time to buy before the prices of homes and interest rates increase even more.

Current interest rates are about 7.37 percent or less on average for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage, which is still in the historically low category.

Take Advantage of Incentives

There are many incentives and first-time home buyer loan programs and grants available up to $17,000 to qualified first-generation home purchasers, and 100 percent financing for qualified veterans to purchase as well.

Area monthly rent prices have escalated to staggering amounts and are in many cases higher than your monthly mortgage payment would be. Home ownership is even more valuable and beneficial than ever before. Now the time to get preapproved for your mortgage before the perfect home comes up for sale on the market. You want to be ready.

Now that the football season has ended and winter is wrapping up, the official kickoff to the spring real estate market has begun. Spring real estate is heating up and the first quarter is strong. real estate is alive and well, now is the time to buy or sell. Ask a real estate professional to help you win the game and to successfully get you to your closing.

With hugs and warm regards.

For more real estate advice and questions, call/text Elisa at 609-703-0432 or see TherealEstateGodmother.com.

Read your dog’s body language at the dog park

By Heidi Clayton

It seems most people want to take their dogs to a dog park for socialization. They see it as a chance for their dog to meet other dogs and play. How much a dog can benefit or be ruined from this socialization depends on the individual dog. I say this with no malice, but many of the people I see taking their dogs to the dog park are fairly out of

tune with dog body language and spend more time checking their phones than actually working on socializing their dogs. Just walking your dog in and taking the leash off to watch them run wild is not my idea of socialization.

Play between two dogs should look very much like they are chatting with each other and laying down the ground rules for their play date. Play bows are the equivalent of inviting the other to play. A game of chase or wrestling may ensue. However, at some point, one of the dogs may ask for a break, and you will notice a pause in the play. A good playmate

will read that signal loud and clear, then back off, giving their buddy a chance to catch their breath. A bad playmate will not.

I watched a video of a client's dog playing with a dog larger than she is. During play, she was flipped onto her back with the larger dog mouthing and biting at her throat. The smaller dog was growling and wiggling naturally in an effort to get away. When she did manage to get up, she took off in an all-out gallop around the park. Her run was uncontrolled and looked more like an effort to flee than a fun romp, which they assumed she was doing. What I saw was a small dog having the fear of God put into her by this schoolyard bully. The relationship of play was not based on a mutual exchange of sometimes the bigger dog getting chased and tackled and vice versa. This girl seemed in her owner’s eyes to be enjoying the running around and romping, but what I saw was a dog that didn’t know what else to do to avoid the pummeling.

A good playmate, who might be

bigger than the other, will sometimes voluntarily roll over, allowing the smaller dog a victory. A bigger dog might also slow down when playing chase to make things fair. Some of the signs that your dog is not actually enjoying themselves while playing are if they frequently run to humans, even if it is not you, or if they run under a bench or behind a human.

To check if your dog is actually trying to get away from play, put them on their leash and head to leave. If they actively want to go, let them. If you think at any point your dog is not having fun, try not to panic. Certainly don’t yell. Calmly offer everyone a treat, or try and use your body to block any further play.

Dog park play can absolutely be innocent and fun for your dog. Just be sure that you are at all times tuned into your dog's body language to ensure everyone's safety.

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