SHORE LOCAL | Coastal | March 28, 2024

Eggs-cellent Easter Activities

Savoring the Flavor at Restaurant Gala

Memories to Live On at Jerry Blavat's Bar

Going On a Stroll with Ventnor Walking Club

Cozy Sectionals

Divine Dinettes

Blissful

Grocery Outlet to host grand opening celebration March 28

Grocery Outlet will open its newest store at 190 Hamilton Commons Dr. in Mays Landing on Thursday, March 28.

Grocery Outlet, an extreme-value grocery retailer based in Emeryville, California, offers customers big savings on brand-name products. The company has more than 450 locations throughout California, Idaho, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington. Stores are owned by Independent operators based in the communities they serve.

A full range of products including fresh produce, meat, deli, and dairy, along with a wide assortment of natural and organic choices will be offered. Grocery Outlet also carries a large selection of health and beauty care, as well as seasonal items. Founded in 1946, Grocery Outlet provides local customers an exciting place

to find ‘wow’ deals on name brands they trust.

Independent owner operator Chukwuemeka Nnadiinvites will present a $1,000 donation on behalf of Grocery Outlet to the St. Vincent de Paul Parish Food Pantry, whichprovides services and direct assistance to those in need. In addition, a $500 donation will be presented on behalf of Grocery Outlet to Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary, a home for unwanted farm animals, domesticated animals and animals with special needs to live out their natural lives.

The first 100 customers at 8 a.m. will receive a Grocery Outlet Bliss Buck gift card in mystery amounts ranging from $5 to $500. In addition, all shoppers will receive a free limited-edition reusable bag, while supplies last. Limit 1. Chukwuemeka invites the Mays Landing community to play the Wheel of Bargains' Spin & Win for a chance to win a prize.

Spring in to holiday celebrations

From the Editor

Birds are chirping, the trees are budding, and the sun shines until 7 p.m. Daffodils with their yellow trumpets announce “We made it!” Spring has sprung.

I am especially fond of the yellow forsythia bushes. Like clockwork every year at this time, it bursts with yellow blooms – just in time for my birthday. With my actual name Cynthia, as a kid, my little ears only heard the yellow bushes called “For-Cynthia” (rather than forsythia.) So throughout my childhood, I believed those bushes bloomed just for me, because, afterall, it was my birthday. I wish I never found out otherwise. The forsythia remains my favorite sign of spring.

Easter and Passover at the Jersey Shore are full of special events and opportunities to create memories

and begin new traditions. From the fashion strolls to the dueling pianos to the Easter Bunny strolling the boards, there is a collective sense of joy in the salt air.

Our Easter traditions have changed dramatically over the years. When the kids were little, Bob and I would take them to the egg hunts, and smile as they’d giggle on the kiddie rides. We’d snack our way down the boardwalk and fly kites on the beach. Later as teens though, they would roll their eyes at the mention of egg hunts or other “childish” traditions. That is, until we learned what made them tick. Instead of trinkets or candy, we put coins, and dollar bills in the eggs we hid, with one “golden egg” containing $20. Bob and I laughed as the kids suddenly became enthusiastic egg hunters once again.

town parades from the sidewalk, or plant some flowers in your backyard.

This issue of Shore Local is bursting with fun local event listings and features. Check out the Events and Happenings section on page 18 and Seven fun things to do Easter Weekend on page 65. For more adult entertainment, turn to Wahoo, Shore Local’s Entertainment Guide, highlighted in yellow in the center of each edition of Shore Local.

This year, with our children grown, many of our Easter traditions have evolved. We still all enjoy Easter at the Jersey Shore though. Heading up to the boardwalk after church service, we enjoy the Dueling Pianos, “Best Dressed” contests, and other festivities.

Celebrating Life at The Southern NJ Shore

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Traditions, like all things in life, shift over time as families grow and change. Although we've lost some beloved family members in recent years, we treasure the time with those that are still with us. And this year, we gained a puppy! At 9 weeks now, she is both a 3-pound tornado and bundle of love.

Whatever season of life you are in, I encourage you to make Easter (or Passover) special with little things. Cut some flowers to bring inside or buy yourself some macarons from an old fashioned candy store. You could attend a religious service, watch the

As always, thank you for picking up this issue. Your input is important to us. Please email shorelocalnews@gmail.com with your feedback and story ideas.

Please also take a look at the advertisements throughout the pages of Shore Local. It is their sponsorship that makes this publication possible so consider giving them some love and tell them you saw them in Shore Local.

From our home to yours, wishing you a Happy Easter and Passover.

Peace & Love, Cindy

Jerry Blavat’s Memories in Margate will rock the oldies with a new owner

By Erica Hoffman

After news broke last January that Philadelphia and Jersey Shore icon, Jerry Blavat, better known as "The Geator with the Heater," had passed away, Blavat's longtime fans worried about the future, or lack thereof, of Memories, his landmark establishment in Margate.

On July 3, 2023, when friends and fans joined together to celebrate their beloved "Boss with the Hot Sauce's" birthday, some thought it might be the last hurrah for Memories.

A glimmer of hope emerged as rumors swirled of a new owner coming

forward to carry on Blavat's legacy. Locals and “Yon Teens” can now breathe a sigh of relief. Memories: Blavat’s iconic bar and dance club has a new owner, and it is set to open by Memorial Day or, as many locals know it, the “unofficial start of summer.”

The anticipation of someone new taking the reins of the bar sent a strong sense of curiosity and hope among Margate's residents and Memories fans who hold close to them the feelings of evenings spent reveling in the infectious energy of Blavat's home away from home. The status of the unassuming white and blue landmark bar and dance club on the corner of Amherst and Madison avenues, directly across from the bay, has been a dilemma since Blavat's passing: what to do with the club, which had been closed and up for sale until Wednesday, March 20.

The law firm Pozzuolo Rodden Pozzuolo and the executors of Blavat's estate revealed they went through over 100 applicants for the famous property “The Geator” owned for over five decades. The team ultimately decided on another highly seasoned yet fresh-faced Philadelphia figure, Teddy Sourias, 43.

As president of Craft Concepts Group, Sourias is the brains behind Philadelphia hotspots such as Tradesman's, Finn McCool's, BRU, U-Bahn, Uptown Beer Garden, and two highly anticipated new spots: Mona, a chic Mediterranean restaurant 1308-10 Chestnut St., and a flashy Japanese-inspired restaurant at 1515 Market St.Expectations are for both to open in 2024. He was ultimately chosen as the club's new owner, not only because of his proven track record in the bar and restaurant industry. His hefty financial backing, resources, and overall passion for preserving the venue's seasoned and well-loved identity played a significant role in the major decision Blavat’s team had in front of them.

making vast cosmetic improvements, including revamping the outdoor bar area to give this spot even more of a Jersey Shore vibe.

With the already palpable unwavering support of the community and the dedication of Sourias, the new Memories is likely to become not just

a place to let loose and imbibe but also a living monument to the indelible mark left by one man's passion and vision on Margate's short yet mighty bayside skyline.

Sourias plans to honor Memories by keeping the name and its wellknown oldies rock energy while

Erica Hoffman is Atlantic City born, Margate raised. Her columns range from feel good informative articles to interviews with people who have captivating stories to tell. Hoffman lives with her devoted and patient partner and their obnoxiously adorable cat.

Actor Kelsey Grammer Keynote Speaker for 38th Annual Atlantic/Cape Memorial Service

The 200 Club of Atlantic and Cape May Counties Memorial Service and Brunch –which honors police, fire, and rescue personnel who have died in the line of duty – will be held at noon on April 7 at the Tropicana Casino Resort Ballroom, Atlantic City.

The keynote speaker is actor Kelsey Grammer from the television sitcoms “Cheers” and “Frasier,” and the owner of Faith American Brewing Company. The 200 Club asks speakers to tell their stories of survival with a focus on police, firefighters, and EMTs.

The brunch follows a 10 a.m. Mass at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church in Atlantic City for first responders. The wearing of uniforms is encouraged. The 200 Club plans to add two names to its honor roll during the brunch. They are:

Tickets cost $60 each and can be obtained from Melissa Wilson, brunch committee co-chair, by emailing swapforrent@yahoo.com or calling 609-377- 4035. Mail checks to: The 200 Club c/o Melissa Wilson, PO Box 1492, Absecon, NJ 08201. The ticket deadline is March 29. No tickets will be sold at the door.

● Atlantic City Police Officer Laverne Harrison Carr who died in 1929.

● Captain Richard Tesauro of the New Jersey State Police died in 2019 from cancer that he developed following his assignment to the search and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001.

The 200 Club of Atlantic and Cape May counties was established in 1986. The non-profit organization is dedicated to providing financial support for the families of police, fire, and rescue personnel who have lost their lives in the protection of our communities. Learn more about the organization’s history and how to become a member of the 200 Club of Atlantic and Cape May Counties at 200clubofatlanticandcapemaycounties.org

Netflix wins contract to open film studio in New Jersey

By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

Lights, Camera, Action!

Streaming giant Netflix plans to construct one of their biggest film studios in the world in New Jersey, featuring 12 soundstages, rivaling their current 300-acre production facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We’re talking about a $903 million project!

Seventy percent of Fort Monmouth Army Base will be demolished - a significant chunk of the 5 million square feet of space. Netflix announced a $55 million payment for the plot, located in Eatontown in Monmouth County.

Big projects mean long timelines, and the studio development will be divided into two phases. First, 12

soundstages will be constructed, ranging in size from 15,000 square feet to 40,000 square feet. The second phase will include building office spaces, backlots and service buildings, and even retail spaces for the visiting public.

hotel, and a helicopter pad. Big stars get the VIP treatment, right?

“We're thrilled to continue and expand our significant investment in New Jersey and North America. We believe a Netflix studio can boost the local and state economy with thousands of new jobs and billions in economic output, while sparking a vibrant production ecosystem in New Jersey," said Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO and chief content officer.

It’s likely that Netflix will place their experimental restaurant on site, ‘Netflix Bites.’ Themed food from shows like ‘Stranger Things’ and ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ will be served, and fans can purchase souvenirs at an attached gift shop. Netflix launched the restaurant concept in October 2023.

The complex will also include housing facilities including trailers, a

Gov. Phil Murphy praised the purchase, announcing that the new studios will mean 1,500 permanent production jobs and 3,500 construction jobs. The Murphy administration offered several tax breaks to movies/ TV shows filmed in the Garden State.

“New Jersey will be the Hollywood of the East Coast,” Gov. Murphy said.

This massive development has raised concerns among some citizens and officials that the project could turn the Fort Monmouth site into a “self-sustaining city,” isolated from Central and South Jersey. Locals are asking, “How is this gonna affect us?”

"We look forward to working with Governor Murphy, his administration and local leaders to finalize this deal in the months ahead. We thank the FMERA (Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority) Board and their staff for selecting Netflix as the winning bid and for supporting our mission to create a state-of-the-art production facility."

Expect the studios to be open and filming before 2030, maybe even as early as 2027.

Meet the Walking Women 's Group of Ventnor

Life is what happens

By Lisa Zaslow Segelman

You may have seen us walking the Ventnor Boardwalk 365 days a year in the early, and some very early morning. Our formation? A couple of packs of two to six or seven ladies, all of whom take care not to drift too far into the board walkers coming the other way. There’s generally two groups – faster walkers and medium speed walkers. Can’t keep up? Drift back to the moderate group for some R&R.

Residents who make their way to the boards every morning are used to seeing us go by in everything from shorts and T-shirts to winter coats and face masks. They often call out hellos. This is no coffee klatch, however. We walkers may smile and wave, but other than that we keep going, and going, and going. At least someone from the group is walking every day all year, rain or shine, heatwave or snow. With work and other obligations, people come and go, but usually wish they were walking, even if life has them running off somewhere else. Inquiries abound later in the day: who walked today?

The group’s Facebook page (Walking Women in Ventnor) shares that, “walking together promotes healthy habits and connections to each other and our community. It’s safe and easy-to-stick-with, at a relatively low cost. Our message is, come walk with us!”

Walking Women in Ventnor NJ, or WWVCNJ, was started by Ventnor Heights resident, Jan Carfagno, during the pandemic in June of 2021 because she desperately needed to find like-minded women with whom she could share a safe, 6-foot distance, favorite fitness activity. For Jan, that was walking.

The Carfagnos closed on their shore home in Ventnor Heights just two weeks before the mid-March pandemic shutdown of 2020. Jan felt fortunate to have a second place to be during the crisis, especially in the better weather. Her husband was an essential worker, so he stayed back in Media, Pa., during the week, while she and her cats lived at the shore.

“As a yoga and Barre class instructor, the classes I taught went

“She’s done a great job with that,” added Deodato. “Our group’s activities have expanded to include a vibrant Walking Women in Ventnor Book Club, self-defense classes, holiday outings, restaurant visits, bowling and volunteering for the Food Bank of NJ. And this past summer, beach yoga was added and Carfagno was able to lead the classes.

“I was so happy to teach in person instead of online,” said Carfagno.

Contribute-what-you-wish donations were collected for the yoga classes, which went entirely to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine. “I felt so good about that,” said Jan.

online of course, so by the second year of the pandemic I was feeling so isolated and needing connection,” said Jan. “Work, socializing – so much was taken away from me and from everyone. I’m all about introducing friends to friends and I knew I had to do something.”

For Carfagno, it was about being with people and that’s how Walking Women in Ventnor was born.

Many members continually express how the nature of the long walks, the conversation and the camaraderie have helped walkers both walk and talk things out. There are some ground rules however: no politics and respectful interaction is expected. Walkers agree to accept these simple requests when they sign up online.

“It’s been almost two years since I joined the walking group as a way to connect with other women at a difficult time in the world and in my own world,” said Nicole Deodato of Ventnor. “I lost the two women closest to me in one year: my mom and my best friend. I have a great husband, but women need close girlfriends.”

When founder Jan’s life changed with the blessing of a grandchild and a commitment to help watch him in 2022, she passed the leadership reins to Janine Peck of Ventnor, wishing her luck in leading the group and keeping connection and health a priority.

“Please walk together often,” Jan told members in her last Facebook post as the leader of the group. “It’s good for your heart and soul.”

Janine’s intention when taking on the group was to offer additional options besides walking, so women could meet like-minded people and make lasting friendships.

Many walkers that are new to the area or finally moved “down the shore” permanently are attracted to the group as a way to meet new people. When you spend an hour a day with people even a few times a month with no other distractions except the roar of the ocean, you get to know each other very well.

The walkers meet at Stratford Street and the Boardwalk in Ventnor at 9 a.m. in the good weather, and 10 a.m. off-season. There is also a 6:15 a.m. group that meets at the Ventnor Library because parking is free until 8 a.m. This time is great for those who have jobs or school to attend later in the morning.

Even though there are set meeting points, there’s no need to meet there. Like ice skaters or Rockettes joining the line, walkers can join up anywhere along the route and it’s the same every day: north to the sign welcoming folks to Atlantic City, and then a turn around and back south to the end of the Boardwalk in Ventnor.

After a toe tap on the bench at the end of the line, the group makes a turn and heads back to Stratford and the Boardwalk for a few minutes of chat and goodbyes until the next time. The length of the walk is approximately 3 miles, but you can “hop on and hop off” any time.

Interested walkers don’t need to live in Ventnor City to walk with the group. WWVCNJ is open to all women who have the ability to walk, talk and stay healthy regardless of where you live. Interested walkers can join the Facebook group: Walking Women in Ventnor. It’s listed as a private group with 519 members.

Walking Women in Ventnor was born out of crisis but continues to thrive out of the very human need to connect, in person, in all kinds of weather, in all kinds of walking gear, with all kinds of people.

A group created by local resident Jan Carfagno to relieve pandemic isolation still walks, talks and expands three years later.

Atlantic Cape’s Annual Restaurant Gala raises record amount for student scholarships

It was an evening to celebrate a Springtime in Paris as more than 840 guests attended the 41st Annual Atlantic Cape Community College Restaurant Gala. Guests helped raise a record $306,210 towards student scholarships while also honoring three deserving members of the community on Thursday, March 21 at the Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City.

This year’s Gala recognized Travis Lunn, president and chief operating officer, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, as its Community Honoree and Chef Demetrios Haronis, 1990 Academy of Culinary Arts (ACA) alumnus and current executive chef at Tropicana Atlantic City, as its ACA Honoree. Students from the ACA created hors d’oeuvres for the lavish cocktail reception held in the lobby. Guests were then treated to a deliciously-eclectic mix of some of the region’s most delectable fine foods, signature dishes, desserts and some of the tastiest libations during a formal dinner in the Wildwood Ballroom. More than 50 South Jersey establishments, including long-standing

From best-selling books to movies, and from workshops to children’s activities, the Ocean City Free Public Library offers resources and events that will put you on cloud 9.

participants Dock’s Oyster House, Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar, Knife & Fork Inn, Renault Winery & Resort and Smithville Inn were on hand. Sample beverages from popular local wineries, breweries and distilleries were a hit with craft IPA beers, red and white wines, champagne and more.

Live musical entertainment from the GrooveHeart Band kept the jovial spirit of the evening moving as guests

took to the dance floor.

Since its inception in 1984, the Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala has raised more than $4.3 million for scholarships for students attending the Academy of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management program, an emergency fund, special projects and the Atlantic Cape Foundation operations.

Photo credit: Atlantic Cape Com munity College

Wines to complement your Easter menu

By David Setley

Easter is right around the corner, and many of us are making dinner plans. Unlike Thanksgiving, in which turkey reigns supreme, there are a variety of options found on folks’ Easter menus, making wine pairings a bit more complicated. Let’s look at some of the foods that have become Easter traditions, alongside complementary wine recommendations.

Regardless of your menu, a welcome wine is always in good taste. A sparkling wine, such as Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, or Moscato d’Asti, is the perfect way to greet your dinner guests. Brilla Wine, from Northern Italy, has three wonderful sparkling wines that come in festive bottles to add pizzazz to your Easter table. On the drier side, the Brilla Prosecco Brut and the Prosecco Rosé are both certified Denominazione di Origine

Controllata (DOC) wines from the Veneto wine region near Venice, Italy. If you prefer a slightly sweeter sparkling wine, try the Brilla Moscato from the Piedmont wine region. Any of these wines will delight your palate while the bottles delight your eyes.

My research indicated that ham appears to be the most popular protein for Easter dinner in America. Some families roast their ham with brown sugar, some use pineapple, some use fruit jelly, and some use honey mustard. I even know people in PA who use peanut butter to glaze their Easter ham – no kidding! Food.com has a recipe for this online if you’re interested. No matter the preparation, ham is a sweet meat that is best paired with a dry wine. Consider a Sauvignon Blanc, such as the Jean-Paul Picard & Fils Sancerre from the Loire Valley, or a Pinot Gris, like the A to Z Pinot Gris from Oregon. Or, if you prefer red, seek out a light to medium-bodied option.

dinia and is the varietal name that Sardinians use to refer to Grenache or Garnacha grapes. It is a great wine and, because it is relatively unknown, a great bargain.

For those of you I’ve spoken with personally, you likely know that my wife and I adopted a pescatarian diet a little over a year ago. We largely eat vegetarian at home but occasionally

Lamb, best described as “gamey,” is also a popular choice for Easter celebrations. The taste of lamb is generally robust with grassy flavors.

Côtes du Rhône wines, from Southern France, are natural pairings to complement this protein. These wines are often referred to as a GSM blend, meaning a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes. Syrah wines can be described as gamey, making it a perfect wine to pair with lamb meat. The Domaine Brusset Laurent B-Côtes du Rhône is an excellent Old-World choice. If you prefer New-World, try the Australian Trizanne Syrah or Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz.

Turkey is a frequent pick for Easter dinner. Though many believe that poultry pairs best with white wines, I believe the perfect pairing is a Gamay wine from Beaujolais, France. Beaujolais borders Burgundy, the home of Pinot Noir, and these grapes have many similarities; if you like Pinot Noir, you will likely enjoy Gamay. Gamay wines are light to medium-bodied red wines with an elevated acidity level that makes them perfect for turkey. The fruit flavors are cranberry, red raspberry, and cherry, and there is a slightly less dominant earthiness than you would find in Pinot Noir. The Jean Paul Dubost Moulin-A-Vent En Brenay is an outstanding Gamay wine, as is the L. Tramier & Fils Beaujolais-Villages.

In my research, I also discovered that salmon is often selected for the springtime holiday, especially by pescatarians. Like poultry, many consider white wine to be the natural pairing, though a red wine can work just as well, depending. If you are baking your salmon, I suggest a fuller-bodied white wine, such as the Novellum 100% Chardonnay from France or the Stags Leap Hands of Time Chardonnay from California. If you are grilling or pan-frying your salmon, consider the Lemelson Vineyards Thea’s Selection Pinot Noir, from the Willamette Valley of Oregon, or the Santa Maria La Palma Le Bombarde Cannonau from Sardinia, Italy. Cannonau is the most widely planted grape in Sar-

eat seafood when traveling or eating out. So, what do vegetarians eat for Easter? Whatever we want! Seriously, with the number of plant-based foods that have taste similarities to poultry, red meat, or even seafood, the options are limitless. Wine pairings are designed to complement flavors, not the specific meat. As such, vegetarians can easily follow the same recommendations as given above. For a specific veggie dish that coincides with the season, something with asparagus would be lovely. My research exposed a plethora of main dishes that feature asparagus, ranging from pasta dishes to rice dishes to crepes. Many wine influencers suggest that a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, such as The Infamous Goose or Cloudy Bay, pairs extremely well with this vegetable. While I don’t disagree, my preference is to pair a Vinho Verde, like the Vera Vinho Verde from Portugal; or a Pinot Gris, like Kuentz-Bas from Alsace, France; or even Portlandia, from Willamette Valley, Oregon if I’m putting asparagus front and center.

I hope this article helps you select the wines that complement your Easter holiday. As always, contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com or stop by the Somers Point store if you have questions or comments. Until next time, Happy Easter and 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.

Elevate and Celebrate

A celebration of local women in business

By Raymond Tyler

Stockton University professor Pamela Thomas-Fields organized a Women’s History Month networking event honoring local women in business on Monday March 25.

As Women’s History Month was winding down, professor Pamela Thomas-Fields curated The Elevate and Celebrate event at Stockton University’s Atlantic City Campus. Elevate and Celebrate was about more than just networking as Thomas-Fields and several of her business students presented local women with awards.

The students currently enrolled at Stockton University and taking a business course with Thomas-Fields not only presented the awards, they also previously interviewed each honoree.

From the stage, the students were able to discuss what they learned from each of the award winners before handing out the award.

The honorees of the evening included: Cathy Burke, owner of The Irish Pub; Lena Di, owner of Lena Di Wellness; Kim Jackson, owner of Kelsey and Kim’s Restaurant.

Also, Cynthia Jennings, a Mary Kay

owner; Lisa Johnson, owner of Lisa Johnson Communications; Phyllis Lacca, owner of Masterpiece Advertising.

And, Rita Mack, owner of Atlantic City McDonald’s franchises; Roxanne Passarella, owner of The Flagship Resort; Kim Jackson, Cathy Burke and Rita Mack were unable to attend.

The winners that did attend Ele -

vate and Celebrate shared valuable insight about their businesses and life stories.

Lena Di explained that she originally wanted to be a doctor. Di’s road eventually led her to being a leader in health, fitness and helping women heal through yoga, movement and meditation.

Cynthia Jennings discussed how the Mary Kay company started in the 1950s. Jennings also shared her personal start with Mary Kay while needing additional income to support a son in college.

Lisa Johnson gave insight on her life growing up in Atlantic City, Pleasantville and Northfield. Johnson related how her high school guidance counselor made sure she could attend college.

Johnson said she became the first of her family to hit many of the heights of success and also stressed that she would be available to help those business owners listening to her speech that evening.

Roxanne Passarella spoke about how relationships led her to being placed in a position to acquire The Flagship and other resort properties. Passarella said she and her family as owners, even cleaned hotel rooms as they were navigating the pandemic.

Phyllis Lacca discussed the importance of diversity, showing up, and being nice.

In every case, the women receiving awards discussed how hard it is to excel and the joy in helping others to also achieve.

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

Pamela Fields in purple far left with the winners. Also students from Professor Fields class. Photo by Raymond Tyler.

Events and Happenings

Saturday, March 30

Pancake Breakfast in Ocean City

▶8 a.m.

Ocean City Masonic Lodge 940 Wesley Ave.

Breakfast includes specialty pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, coffee, and juice. The prices are $12 for adults, $8 for children, and $10 for veterans. Walk-ins are welcome. First come, first served. All proceeds benefit the Masonic Lodge restoration fund.

Visits with the Easter Bunny

▶9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Soifer Park 9th St. & Asbury Ave. Ocean City

Visit the Easter Bunny in Downtown Ocean City. For more information, see www.oceancityvacation.com.

EHT BMX 30th Annual Jack Frost Classic

▶9 a.m.

Veterans Memorial Park Ocean Heights Ave. Egg Harbor Township

Take in a full day of BMX racing with riders from across the nation. Whether you are a participant or a spectator, this event is for you. Online preregistration will be open until 7:30 a.m. on Saturday. In-person registration will be open on race day from 8 – 11 a.m., with practice starting at 9 a.m. Awards will be pre -

sented for 1st – 3rd place winners. Plus, enjoy a 50/50 drawing, raffle baskets, and event stickers. Learn more at www. ehtbmxracing.com.

Somers Point Easter Egg Hunt

▶10 a.m.

JFK Park 24 Broadway

Hosted by the City of Somers Point. Activities include free face painting from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., candy and prize-filled eggs. The hunt is open to kids up to age 10. Bring your own bag for the hunt. The first 250 people will receive a free bag. For more information, call Doug Shallcross at (609) 833-5428.

Linwood Easter Egg Hunt

▶10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

All Wars Memorial Park 1210 Wabash Ave.

For more information, please visit www.linwoodcity.org.

The Easter Bunny Express

▶11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Tuckahoe Train Station Reading Ave. & Railroad Ave.

The Easter Bunny will travel on a special train on the Cape May Seashore Lines to visit with all passengers, young and old. All children will receive a special gift from the Easter Bunny, and live musicians will be onboard for this family-friendly event. Purchase tickets online at www. seashorelines.org.

Egg Harbor City Egg Hunt

▶11 a.m.

500 London Ave.

The Egg Harbor City Rotary will hold its rescheduled Egg Hunt this weekend. Children 1-12 years old are welcome to find over 2,000 candy-filled eggs. This year’s winning eggs are gold and Disney-themed.

Girls Day Out at Renault Winery

▶12 – 4 p.m.

72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Renault Winery invites you to unwind and have some fun. The day will include live entertainment from John King, oneof-a-kind photo opportunities, and plenty of drinking and shopping options.

The Great Egg Hunt

▶1 – 3 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk from 6th – 14th St.

The Ocean City Egg Hunt is trickor-treat-style for kids up to 7 years old. Bring a basket and stop by participating boardwalk merchants while supplies last. All eggs are filled with fun toys and candy. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.

Saturday, March 31

Easter Sunrise Service

▶6:30 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk

Join Ocean City for a nondenominational service by the sea. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com. Meet & Greet with the Easter Bunny

▶12 – 2 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk

Come dressed in your Easter best and meet the Easter Bunny for a photo in an Ocean City Lifeguard Boat. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation. com.

Dueling Pianos Show

▶12 – 2 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier 825 Boardwalk

The Philly Keys will perform their hit dueling pianos show. Enjoy free fun for the entire family in front of the Music Pier. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.

Historic Smithville Easter Parade

▶1 p.m.

615 E. Moss Mill Rd.

Do you love Easter as much as Smithville? Take part in the Easter Parade along the Village Greene. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/VillageGreene.

Tuesday, April 2

DIY Container Gardening: Spring Bulbs & Flowers

▶10:30 a.m.

Join JFS Village by the Shore live from Tina Serota’s front porch for a

demonstration on planning, creating, and maintaining your own manageable bulbs and flower container garden. Get your porch, balcony, or deck ready for the season. This program is presented via Zoom and will be emailed. RSVP by March 28 by emailing tserota@jfsatlantic.org or calling (609) 287-8872.

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-act plays. 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.

Green Thumb Garden Club Meeting

▶7 p.m.

Somers Point Senior & Community Center 22 N. Ambler Rd.

The Green Thumb Garden Club of Somers Point invites the public to attend this week’s program presented by Gary Schempp, a bee expert from Cape May County. Gary’s worldwide travels and video programs promote the importance of the protection of bees and how they affect our human lives. Donations are gladly accepted from nonmember guests who attend.

Somers Point Dance Society

▶7:30 – 10 p.m.

Somers Point Fire Hall 447 Bethel Rd.

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, April 3

Noon Organ Recital

▶12 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

The Historic Organ Restoration Committee kicks off its tenth year of recitals

with international concert artist Loreto Aramendi. Plus, enjoy a catered lunch and tour of the Midmer-Losh Organ in the Main Arena. More information is available at www.boardwalkorgans.org.

Art Comes Alive: Compare & Contrast ▶1 p.m.

Katz JCC Boardroom 501 N. Jerome Ave. Margate

Join JFV Village by the Shore as local award-winning artist Shirley Belitsky shares her journey by comparing the same subject matter when it is viewed by different artists using light, color, technique, and brushstrokes. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP by April 1 by emailing tserota@jfsatlantic.org or call (609) 287-8872.

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.

Sharon Sable & Joe Holt: The Music of Blossom Dearie

▶7 – 8:30 p.m.

Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point

The South Jersey Jazz Society kicks off its 2024 spring series “Something Borrowed, Something Blue, and Something Neu” with a tribute to the unique jazz vocalist Blossom Dearie. The first of this three-part sequence will pay homage to this amazing song stylist will be the Sharon Sable Quartet, consisting of Sharon Sable on vocals, Joe Holt on piano, Tom Baldwin on bass, and Steve Abshire on drums. Go to www.southjerseyjazz. org to learn more.

Thursday, April 4

Positivity Project: Morning Refresh ▶10:30 a.m.

Explore positivity with JFS Wellness Coordinator Mary Jean Arreola and Village Community Specialist Tina Serota. Learn ways to boost wellness – mind,

↘Continued on 20

body, and soul. Topics include self-care, mindfulness, gratitude, meditation, and resiliency. This program is presented via Zoom and will be emailed. RSVP by March 28 by emailing tserota@jfsatlantic.org or call (609) 287-8872.

Friday, April 5

Anna Lapwood

▶7 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Hailed as an organist, conductor, and broadcaster, Anna Lapwood holds the position of Director of Music at Pembroke College (Cambridge), Associate Artist of the Royal Albert Hall in London, and Artist in Association with the BBC Singers. Her 2024 U.S. concert tour brings her to the mammoth 7 manual/449 rank Midmer-Losh organ at Boardwalk Hall. Tickets are available at www.boardwalkorgans.org.

Girls Weekend Fashion Show

▶7 p.m.

Ocean City Yacht Club 100 Bay Rd.

This event features Downtown Asbury Avenue stores showcasing their latest clothing lines for the spring and summer seasons. The fashion show kicks off a long weekend of shopping, dining, and class activities that highlight all that Downtown Ocean City has to offer. Admission includes refreshments and light fare. Tickets are limited. For tickets and information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Saturday, April 6

OC CON Super Hero Run

▶9 a.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk at Sixth Street

Be a superhero in this costumed one-mile run for OC CON Weekend. The event also includes a kids’ Super Hero Obstacle Dash. Race-day registration will take place at the Civic Center from

8 – 8:45 a.m. The Super Hero Run begins at 9 a.m. followed by the Obstacle Dash at 10 a.m. Learn more and register online at www.ocnj.us/race-events.

Somers Point City-Wide Clean Up Day

▶9 a.m.

City Public Works Dept. 830 Centre St.

Sponsored by the Somers Point Green Team and the Department of Public Works. Join the City of Somers Point in preserving the community and environment. To participate, email somersptgreenteam@gmail.com. Rain date: April 13.

“My Grown-up and Me” Art Workshop

▶10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Somers Point Senior & Community Center 22 N. Ambler Rd.

The Somers Point Arts Commission is offering a Saturday art class for children in 1st – 4th Grade along with their favor-

ite grown-up. Grown-ups must be 18 and older and must remain during the class to work on the project with the child. Registration is required at https://form. jotform.com/240575168453158. Free with donations to the Art Commission gladly accepted.

Sunday, April 7

We’re All Bozos on This Bus Historic Pub Crawl

▶11 a.m.

Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point

Hosted by the Somers Point Unique Experiences Club, get ready for a historic bar tour. The jitney will leave from the Gregory’s parking lot at 11:15 a.m. Clown costumes or masks are required. Seating is very limited. For more information, call (609) 223-1820.

Wednesday, April 17

JFS Pickleball Party

▶1 – 3 p.m.

Ventnor

Pickle Juice 5038 Wellington Ave.

RSVP by April 3. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a newbie, grab your paddle for your chance to join in on an afternoon of pickleball fun. The price includes two hours of play, juice, or a smoothie. Proceeds benefit JFS. Reserve your spot by visiting jfsatlantic.org, by contacting Beth Joseph at (609) 8227409 or bjoseph@jfsatlantic.org.

Bus Trips

Bus Tour to Brandywine Museum and Nemours Mansion

▶Thursday, April 25

Welcome spring by joining the Green Thumb Garden Club of Somers Point on a bus tour to the Brandywine Museum of Art and the Nemours Mansion & Gardens. Advanced reservations are required by April 9. The cost is $105 and includes transportation, boxed lunch and bus driver tip. The bus will leave from the Target lot in Somers Point at 8 a.m. and return by 6 p.m. For more information, call Sally at (609) 927-4147 or after 6 p.m. call Cheryl at (267) 882-8355.

Triple Crown at Delaware Park

▶Saturday, June 8

Spend Saturday afternoon at Delaware Park & Casino with live racing and a simulcast of the Belmont Stakes. $100 per person includes a four-hour open bar with buffet, reserved covered outdoor seating, free program, bus fare, and driver gratuity. Contact John Walters at (609) 703-5418 or email jwaltersjr@ comcast.net for more details.

Phillies vs. Orioles in Baltimore

Spend Father’s Day weekend watching the Phillies vs. Orioles in Baltimore. Enjoy a Saturday afternoon matinee at 4:05 p.m., an overnight stay across from Camden Yards, with breakfast included, and a Sunday afternoon game. $330 per ↘Continued

▶Saturday, June 15 – Sunday, June 16

person includes two games, hotel, breakfast, bus, and driver gratuity. Contact John Walters at (609) 703-5418 or email jwaltersjr@comcast.net for more details.

Ventnor Night at the Phillies

▶Friday, June 28

Join the City of Ventnor for a night of community, baseball, and fireworks at Citizens Bank Park. $150 per person includes a round-trip bus, a three-hour tailgate with food, lower-level seating, and a fireworks show preceding the game. The bus will depart from Ventnor Heights at 3 p.m. on the day of the game. Registration is open now http://ventnor. recdesk.com.

Phillies vs. Yankees

▶Wednesday, July 31

Enjoy a July afternoon watching a classic baseball rivalry. $100 per person includes a 300-level ticket, bus, $12 voucher good for anything at the stadium, driver gratuity, and assorted beverages. Contact John Walters at (609) 703-5418 or email jwaltersjr@comcast. net for more details.

Health and Wellness

Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, April 3, 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.

NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶Monday, April 8, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph Church 608 Shore Rd. Somers Point

NAMI Connection is a recovery support group for adults with a mental health condition. Family Support Group is a support group for adult friends and family members of people with mental health conditions. 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) 7415125. NAMI ACM is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation.

MHA Atlantic Family Meeting

▶Thursday, April 11, 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. Starr at the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County offers 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.

Do you have an upcoming event?

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

Ventnor's Women's Book Club reads 'The Last Lecture' and explores local ties to author

Life is What Happens

By Lisa Zaslow Segelman

People wonder why the Walking Women of Ventnor (see page 10) has a book club. Do we walk and read at the same time just like lead character Belle in the story, “Beauty and the Beast?” Not exactly.

While at a social event for Walking Women in Ventnor, local residents Sandi Taub and Sydria Shaffer met and bonded over their most recently read books.

“Sydria expressed an interest in starting a book club, and by January of 2023, we were up and running, connecting with women in our community,” said Taub.

Many local women who wanted to be part of the walking club, but

couldn’t fit it into their work schedules, were excited about the book club’s meeting plan: weeknight evenings.

“I joined the book club a few months before moving to Ventnor last April because I wanted to make sure I had some sort of social life once I got there,” said Lori Moelevsky. “The conversation is always engaging. I find it interesting to get the different perspectives of other women.”

Recent titles have included “Go as a River” by Shelley Read, “Looking for Jan” by Heather Marshall and “The Measure” by Nikki Erlick.

“As a new, part-time Ventnor resident, I wanted to do something social that went along with an activity,” said book club member Joyce Wasserman of Ventnor Heights. “I belong to a book club in my hometown, so I knew that joining this one would inspire me to read books I wouldn’t

Coconut

Vanilla

Peanut

Coconut

normally have selected myself.”

This month, the club met at my home to discuss “The Last Lecture,” which was co-authored by Randy Pausch and Jeffrey Zaslow.

Zaslow was a New York Times best-selling author, Wall Street Journal reporter, a native summer son of Ventnor (and Brigantine and Atlantic

City), and also my brother, just 19.5 months my senior. In the middle of an illustrious career as a writer, Jeff lost his life in a car accident in Michigan 12 years ago at age 53 when he was promoting his last book, “The Magic Room,” in northern Michigan. Sixty years prior however, Jeff and I were 5- and 6-year-old summer residents on Harvard Avenue, just a few houses from City Hall and seven blocks from our current home on Somerset Avenue.

Jeff co-authored “The Last Lecture” with professor Randy Pausch after attending a lecture given by the professor Sept. 28, 2017, at Carnegie Mellon University.

Universities have a tradition where they present a premise to professors: “If you were dying and were asked to give a last lecture, what would it be? What wisdom would you impart to the world if you knew it was your last chance?”

In this case Pausch was really dying of pancreatic cancer – and soon.

(L to R) Susan Sands, Linda Newman and Lorie Modelevsky meet at their monthly meeting to discuss “The Last Lecture” by Randy Pausch and Ventnor summer-son Jeffrey Zaslow.

Jeff’s paper in 2007, The Wall Street Journal, suggested Jeff do a phone interview to cover the lecture, but Jeff felt it needed to be experienced in person.

The paper was unwilling to pay for the trip, so he drove himself from Michigan to Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh (coincidentally Jeff’s alma mater) to cover the story.

Pausch titled the lecture, “Really Achieving your Childhood Dreams,” and Jeff broke the story in The Wall Street Journal the next day. His poignant account helped drive people to YouTube to view the lecture, which subsequently went viral when going viral was a new thing.

With the lecture becoming a sensation, Randy was encouraged to turn his talk, and his outlook on life, into a book. Jeff was asked to co-author in part because Randy didn’t want to spend his final months at a keyboard writing a book; he wanted to spend it with his family.

Jeff, who had broken the story, was known for his ability to tell human interest stories with poignancy, depth and sensitivity. That’s when the phone interviews happened – scores of them – so Randy could exercise while speaking to Jeff and not lose time with his wife and young children during his precious last months.

“The Last Lecture” was released in 2008 and spent more than 113 weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers List, sold 5 million copies and has been translated into 48 languages. It is read and studied in countless high school and college English courses. “The Last Lecture” is an easy read at 206 pages with short chapters; some are a page long or less with surprisingly simple messages which even children can understand. One chapter is simply titled, “Look for the Best in Everybody.”

For all the sadness surrounding Randy and Jeff’s deaths, I’m grateful that after a dozen years I was able to

share what I know about the lecture, the book and its journey without tears.

Jeff’s first claim to fame, local or otherwise, was his big win in the 1960 Ventnor Baby Parade when our parents created a “Hercules Untrained” float with just shy of 2-year-old Jeff as Hercules. After our parents moved our summer story to Brigantine in 1967, Jeff’s first published work was for The Brigantine Times. He rode his bike from Beach Avenue all the way to the lighthouse and The Times’ office to hand deliver his poem titled, “Sandcastles” about the sadness of returning the next day to a washed away work of art and love. The editors noted at the bottom of the poem that the 9-year-old author hand delivered the piece by bicycle.

Jeff was always into newspapers of any kind and encouraged and celebrated other journalists and writers. His idea of a good time was to grab a Philly soft pretzel and a city regional, or local newspaper like Shore Local and read sometimes sprawled out on the floor as family life moved around him.

When we lived on Aberdeen Place in Atlantic City, Jeff was a paperboy for The Atlantic City Press for years as a pre-teen and teen, insisting that I become an “papergirl” as well – groundbreaking for 1973. The job required me to toss papers onto porches from my bike. It’s no longer PC to say I threw like a girl, but put it this way; I threw like a person who had no chance of making the softball team.

College brought an internship for Jeff at The Jewish Exponent in Philadelphia and work for pay at Veterans Stadium as a hot dog vendor. Ever the writer, Jeff would chant poems at Phillies games to sell dogs and soda. “Man on second, man on first, buy a Coke to quench your thirst!”

Jeff’s journalism career went into full gear at the Orlando Sentinel, his

first job out of college. He moved on to become a Wall Street Journal reporter and then the nation’s first male advice columnist, replacing Ann Landers at the Chicago Sun-Times. He wrote his own advice column he titled, “All That Zazz” for 14 years before returning to The Journal. Jeff was best known for finding stories with heart living and working in the land of a thousand questions, and writing about life’s joys and challenges in a way that resonated deeply with readers.

A note from President Bill Clinton on his personal White House stationery thanks Jeff for his column about Bill’s often troubled brother Roger, stating that not everyone, or most likely anyone, took the time or had the heart to write about him with empathy. Clinton was grateful that Jeff did.

“The Last Lecture” is part of the legacy of both Randy and Jeff, and is on many lists of the top 10 books one should read in their lifetime. The “head fake” in the book is that it’s not about how to die, it’s about how to live. And although millions have read the book, the target audience was three little people: Randy’s children: Dylan, Logan, and Chloe. When Jeff would send Randy links to stories about the book’s phenomenal success after its release, Randy told Jeff

to “Stop googling me and go and hug your kids,” a perfect anecdote about Randy that Jeff told The Indianapolis Star in 2009.

“‘The Last Lecture’ was a life-changing experience for many of us. The book leads the reader to reflect on childhood dreams and personal life goals,” added Walking Women of Ventnor Book Club leader Taub. “It was surreal that this enriching discussion took place in the Zaslow-Segelman home in Ventnor, surrounded by Jeff’s other bestsellers, press about his own career, family photos and the memories and love of his sister. It was the perfect opportunity to learn about each other while honoring this amazing man, author and journalist.”

Jeff would have been so honored that readers from the shore towns of his youth, and the beach that inspired his first poem and turned him into a published author while still in his single digits, took the time to learn about the book’s simple, yet inspiring message.

Lisa is an advertising copywriter, journalist, and columnist. She is a year ‘round Ventnor resident and her claim to fame is that she was a Lou’s waitress for four summers.

Stockton Women’s Leadership Council holds its first annual Excellence in Mentoring Awards

By Gabriella Bancheri

On Friday March 22, the Stockton Women’s Leadership Council hosted its first annual Excellence in

Mentoring Awards, an event that offered a delicious breakfast and a wealth of great conversation. The Council awarded four women—three mentors and one mentee—to acknowledge their hard work, professional tenacity, and continuous community support.

Among the awardees were A Meaningful Purpose at Reed’s Farm, Michele Myers-Reid, training manager at Caesars Entertainment,

Andrea Steinberg, CEO of Jewish Family Services, and Tina Byrne, a Stockton alum and NYU master’s graduate who is now an account

manager at Suasion Communications.

While it was wonderful to be a cheerleader for these incredible women during this event, it was equally rewarding to simply chat with other mentors and Council supporters over crepes and coffee. Starting my day surrounded by such motivated and intelligent women was only one of the positive residual effects of the event. I even had the chance to do a bit of networking and lots of learning.

Accepted by Cookie Till, co-founder of A Meaningful Purpose at Reed’s Farm, the Community Leadership award is given to recognize a community leader that invests both time and funds into mentoring initiatives. As Cookie shared, A Meaningful Purpose strives to not only mentor community leaders but create and sustain “opportunities for underserved populations” to ensure a lasting change.

Michele, who was given a Mentoring Champion Award, received the award for her continual support of her mentees, who handed over the award and sang her praises for her genuine interest in and encouragement of her mentees’ success.

Andrea Steinberg was awarded the Impact Mentor Award, designated to recognize a mentor who has made a significant difference in the personal and professional lives of her mentees, and Tina Byrne was awarded the SWLC Student Leadership Award, given to a student who truly maximizes the benefit of their mentor’s support.

Aside from these awards, The

Council’s primary mission is to empower women and promote women’s networking events to foster community engagement. But it’s events like these that truly make all the difference to the community of professionals and showcase how truly influential initiatives like the Stockton Women’s Leadership Council are.

After leaving this ceremony, I felt empowered by the success of women in my very own community, proud to have graduated from such an institution myself, and motivated to give back to this initiative in any way I can.

A few moving words from Tina Byrne’s acceptance speech struck me the most: “This organization gave me the confidence to know I was more than I thought I was.”

The Council and its mentors not only give young women like Tina the confidence to believe in themselves, but the confidence to know they were always the strong women who get the degrees, accept the awards, or become the CEOs.

They just needed a few encouraging women in their corner to help them prove it.

UFC returns to A.C. Saturday

By David Weinberg

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall has hosted some terrific sports events in the last month.

Over 20,000 fans showed up for the annual New Jersey high school state wrestling championships three weeks ago. Wrestlers from Cape-Atlantic League programs fared very well, with Buena Regional High School’s Shea Aretz becoming just the second local girls wrestler to win a state title with a victory in 132-pound weight class.

A week later, mats were replaced by a hardwood floor. The Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference held its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments at the hall for the fourth straight year. St Peter’s men’s and Fairfield’s women’s teams earned berths in March Madness, though both suffered firstround losses.

Now it’s the UFC’s turn.

The world’s top mixed martial arts organization will be returning to Atlantic City for the first time in six years when it stages a card at Boardwalk Hall Saturday night.

UFC Fight Night, which includes a main event featuring women’s lightweight contenders Erin Blanchfield (12-1) against Manon Fiorot (10-1), marks its first card in the resort since April 21, 2018.

Over 9,500 fans showed up that night. It was the largest crowd to see a professional sports event in Boardwalk Hall in a decade, since 11,332 watched boxing legend Bernard Hopkins beat Kelly Pavlik on October 18, 2008.

It would be great to see a big crowd on Saturday, considering it’s been 10 years since a major combative sports card was held there. There have been a few at Boardwalk Hall’s Adrian Phillips Ballroom, but the last event in the main arena was on November 8, 2014, when Sergey Kovalev beat Hopkins.

Saturday’s UFC card marks a return to its roots, for Atlantic City was where it blossomed from a small,

struggling company into the most respected organization in MMA.

It will be their 11th show in A.C. since its debut on the boardwalk at the former Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort – now Hard Rock Hotel Casino – for UFC 28 on November 17, 2000.

Prior to that card 24 years ago, the UFC had been struggling to gain respect. Some states refused or were reluctant to sanction shows for a sport that had been labeled as barbaric by critics.

It had staged events in out-of-theway locales such as the Five Seasons Event Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and the Augusta (Georgia) Civic Center.

Former President Donald Trump, who then owned the Taj Mahal, de -

cided to bring it to Atlantic City by hosting UFC 28 "High Stakes" at the Mark G. Etess Arena. A sellout crowd of 5,000 saw Randy Couture regain the heavyweight championship with a third-round TKO over the late Kevin Randleman.

It was the first of nine UFC cards held in Atlantic City over the course of 14 years. Two more were held at the Taj Mahal before it made its debut at Boardwalk Hall with UFC 41: Onslaught on Feb. 28, 2003.

An announced crowd of 11,707 saw Tim Sylvia win the heavyweight championship with a first-round TKO over Ricco Rodriguez and lightweight champ B.J. Penn battle Caol Uno to a draw.

While UFC returns to Atlantic City on Saturday, Atlantic City super-middleweight boxer Justin Figueroa (7-0, 6 KOs) will be fighting in San Antonio, Texas. Figueroa, a Holy Spirit High school graduate and former Atlantic City lifeguard, is scheduled to meet Christian Aguirre (8-10, 4 KOs), of Salt Lake City, in a six-rounder at Tech Port Arena.

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Erin Blanchfeild

Closed Easter Sunday Opening Weekends Starting Saturday March 23

LaManna back in action June 8

Speaking of boxing, world-rated middleweight Thomas LaManna of Millville will return to Atlantic City for a big fight June 8 at Bally’s Atlantic City.

LaManna (37-5, 16 KOs), who is ranked fourth by the World Boxing Association, will take on No. 9 super-welterweight Johan Gonzalez (34-2, 33 KOs) in a 12-round bout for the WBA’s gold middleweight title.

Fighting at Bally’s marks a trip back in time for LaManna. The 32-year-old made his pro debut there 13 years ago. On February 11, 2011, during his senior year at Millville High School, LaManna began his career with a first-round TKO over Anthony Williams, of Wilson, North Carolina.

“Atlantic City is my backyard, so it is going to be fire on June 8,” said LaManna, who has fought 21 times on the boardwalk, including seven bouts at Bally’s.

The card is being promoted by Main Events in association with LaManna’s Rising Star Promotions.

Totowa-based Main Events has been a staple in Atlantic City boxing for decades.

Its status on the boardwalk dates back to the 1980’s, when Lou Duva and his sons Dan and Dino played prominent roles in making Atlantic City a boxing hotbed with fighters such as Howard Davis, Meldrick Taylor, Evander Holyfield.

When Dan passed away in 1996, his widow, Kathy Duva, took over the company and was the force behind the late Arturo Gatti’s rise to stardom at Boardwalk Hall.

“Main Events has a long history of promoting boxing in Atlantic City,” Duva told FightNews.com. “Now

Thomas LaManna

that (LaManna) has an opportunity to challenge for a world title, we’re happy to step in and help so LaManna can focus exclusively on preparing for the fight.”

A victory would likely put LaManna in line for a rematch with WBA middleweight champion Erislandy Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs).

LaManna has registered seven straight victories since suffering a first-round knockout against Lara on May 1, 2021. His 37 career wins rank third alltime among local fighters behind only the late Richie Kates (44) and former WBA heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon (40).

Gonzalez, a 32-year-old native of Venezuela now living in Las Vegas, has won three straight and 12 of his last 13 bouts. This will be his first fight as a middleweight.

Ticket information and further details about the card will be announced at a later date.

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

What's happening in Ocean City

Special events highlight the holiday weekend in Ocean City

Afull calendar of spring events continues on Easter Weekend in Ocean City with a free egg hunt on the Boardwalk, a sunrise service at the Ocean City Music Pier, and a piano concert and visits with the Easter Bunny outside the Ocean City Music Pier.

The second of two Great Egg Hunts will take place on the Boardwalk on Saturday, March 30. Participating merchants will invite children up to age 7 to visit stores with their families to collect eggs filled with treats and toys. The event will run from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. or while supplies last. Flyers will direct families to participating stores. Rain date is March 31.

The Easter Bunny will visit with children from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 30, at Mark Soifer Park (9th Street and Asbury Avenue).

All are welcome to join a traditional non-denominational Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. Sunday (March 31) at the Ocean City Music Pier. Local clergy members will lead the celebration, which will include Easter music. The service also will be streamed via Zoom for anybody who cannot attend the live event: https:// us06web.zoom.us/j/88580965844.

The Philly Keys will return with their hit dueling piano show in front of the Music Pier at noon Sunday (March 31). From noon to 2 p.m., children are invited to come dressed in their Easter’s best to meet the Easter Bunny for a photo in an Ocean City lifeguard boat.

MORE SPRING EVENTS IN OCEAN CITY

April 5-7 – Girls Weekend: Girls Weekend on downtown Asbury Avenue between Sixth 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 Super Hero 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 – Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps: All organizations and families are encouraged to participate in an annual statewide event to help keep our beaches clean and safe and to protect our coastal environment. Volunteers are sought for the Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13. Check in and pick up supplies at the Ocean City Music Pier before the event.

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. Philadelphia Flyers legend Brian Propp will be grand marshal and be available for photographs and autographs for an hour after the parade at the Music Pier. 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 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.

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

The Worst Kind of March Madness

By Bill Quain

I’m not a meteorological expert. And I don’t have the records of how cold the first week of spring was for the last hundred years. But I’m certain that this is the coldest, wettest, windiest first week of spring there has ever been!

I’m writing this column on Sunday, March 24, at about 8 a.m. My plan was to get up early this morning, and walk over to the Ocean City High School track for a nice run. No way! It’s 30° outside, with wind gusts up to 29 mph. We just came through three days of rain and wind, with gusts up to 50 mph. Yes, I am certain, even without the past records, that this is the coldest first week of spring we’ve ever had.

And It Doesn’t Look Any Better I just had ALEXA give me the

seven-day weather forecast. Wind, rain, cold, and clouds. I keep asking ALEXA for an update, hoping it will change. But I feel certain that she keeps repeating the same, awful forecast, knowing it will drive me crazy. And do you know what will make me feel even worse? I’m sure that Amazon is going to start sending me ads for vacations in Florida. Why? Because ALEXA could hear the desperation in my voice as I asked for the weather forecast for the fourth time in a row. I’m sure she already reported me to Jeff Bezos. He probably shared it with Mark Zuckerberg, and whoever owns Google. They’ve already put the machine into motion. Pretty soon, my phone will be buzzing with messages about cruises, trips to Mexico, and condos for sale in Florida. Oh man, this is awful!

But … Maybe I Should Rethink This

My brother is down this weekend, and he has invited me to his place to watch the NCAA tournament –known as “March Madness.” I guess that’s a pretty good name for what I’m feeling – “March Madness!” In fact, I’m pretty sure that’s what I felt last year about this time. Looking

SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK BENCH

by Bill Quain

back, I probably felt this way every year! The weather isn’t any better, but at least now I have a name for it – my very own March Madness!

In the old days, they might have called it “Cabin Fever.” You can’t call it “Cabin Fever” in Ocean City, because there hasn’t been a cabin here for as long as anyone can remember. The only cabins left in Ocean City are the cabin cruisers you see on the bay in the summertime.

So, let’s take another look at my upcoming week. Today, it’s basketball and beer with my brother. That’s “3B’s” that go together very well! I’ll be teaching my classes at Stockton University’s Atlantic City campus. I love my students! And this week is special because it is “advising week.” I have about 25 students who are assigned to me. I love my advising day. Classes are canceled, and I get to spend a lot of one-on-one time with my advisees. It isn’t just a matter of helping them select courses. I get to look through their eyes at the future. I’m heading towards the end of my career, and they’re just on the brink of starting theirs. What a gift that is to me!

On Thursday afternoon, Guiding Eyes for the Blind, the organization who provided me with my Guide Dog Trudy, is sending down a trainer who will give Trudy and me a final checkout. I got Trudy two years ago, and when we get our final checkout, her title will officially pass to me. This means we’re a permanent team! So we’ll be celebrating Thursday night. I don’t know what kind of champagne dogs drink, but I’m sure David Setley, the Sommelier at Passion Vines, can give me some good advice.

ALEXA: Play Allan Sherman’s “Camp Granada”

Way back in 1963, comedian Allan Sherman produced a fantastic song called “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh (A Letter from Camp).” More commonly, it’s remembered as “Camp Granada.” The opening stanza is: Hello Muddah, hello Fadduh. Here I am at Camp Granada. Camp is very entertaining.

And they say we'll have some fun if it stops raining.

The song goes on to describe the horrible conditions, the terrible coaches, the bad food, and even the plight of poor Jeffrey Hardey, who apparently got lost. They were about to “organize a searching party.”

Muddah, Fadduh, Kindly Disregard This Letter

The last stanza of the song is hysterical! Here are the words:

Wait a minute, it's stopped hailing. Guys are swimming, guys are sailing. Playing baseball, gee that's bettah. Muddah, Fadduh kindly disregard this letter.

Okay, so spring didn’t start off the way I wanted. But life is good! I’ve got friends, family, and I live in the best town in the whole world! I’m even going to get permanent title to my Guide Dog Trudy. I have the great privilege of teaching wonderful students at Stockton. And this evening we’ll have our weekly Zoom dinner with my father-in-law, sister-in-law, our daughter Amanda with our son-in-law Dustin, and our younger daughter Kathleen. We started this tradition four years ago, when it became clear that COVID was going to shut down the world. Over the ensuing four years, I’ll bet we haven’t missed more than about 10 of the Sunday Zoom dinners.

So it’s time to get back to reality, and forget my “March Madness.” My lesson for today? Control the things you can … and live with the weather!

Tell me about your “March Madness”

Okay, it’s your turn! Are you suffering from “March Madness?” I know the best therapy for that. Drop me an email to bill@quain.com, and I’ll get you right back on track! Don’t worry dear readers, I won’t “disregard that letter.”

And 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.

By Dr. Pol Miranda

IRelearn how to breathe

t can never be overstated how important breathing is to the body. Besides the necessity of oxygen to survive, the act of breathing itself can contribute to a healthier state. Respiration is regulated by the nervous system so in essence there’s no thought necessary for this process. But what we fail to realize is that breathing can be controlled and in turn create a healthier environment for our bodies. Consciously slowing the act of breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, the division of the

autonomic nervous system that controls the “relaxation responses” of the body. When this occurs heart rate decreases, blood pressure drops and stress hormones are reduced. This creates an environment for homeostasis, a balanced and stable internal state.

Breathing not only regulates our internal organ systems but also affects our biomechanics and posture. As a chiropractor, many people come to the office complaining of neck and shoulder pain and say they “carry” stress in those areas. The “carrying” part is due to improper breathing habits. Improper breathing

during stress engages accessory muscles in the neck causing shallow breaths and over time neck and shoulder pain as well as tension headaches.

Posture can also be improved by proper breathing habits. For example, diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing relaxes the muscles in the neck and shoulders, opens the chest cavity and allows more oxygen into the lungs. This in turn gently rolls the shoulders back and straightens the thoracic spine or mid-back. It also relaxes tension in lower back muscles that work hard to hold us erect. Practicing proper breathing habits will not only improve the

way your body functions but also help you be aware of improper biomechanics and posture. So, the next time you’re at work, feeling stressed or just want to relax, take a deep breath and relearn how to breathe.

Dr. Pol Miranda, DC graduated from Los Angeles Chiropractic College in 2011. He has been practicing bodywork for over 20 years. Please visit somerspointchiro. com or call the Somers Point Chiropractic office at 609-653-8300 to book an appointment.

Asbury Building has become the hot spot

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

The Asbury Building, located at 801 Asbury Ave. in Ocean City and owned by Raj and Yogi Khatiwala, is rapidly becoming occupied with a tremendous mix of businesses and professional services.

Since the Khatiwala brothers acquired the building, they envisioned creating an environment that would

give small and larger businesses and services a place to flourish. It has exceeded their expectations.

Like everything Raj and Yogi have touched in Ocean City and beyond, the building has been renovated and transformed by their firm, Eclat, into a showcase and much-needed commerce center.

Raj believed that Ocean City residents were missing a year-round, high-end quality place to work and do business.

ity, as well as classes and workshops, private event services, Reiki sessions and training. For more information call 609-442-4266 or see souldreamsstudio.com.

Since February 2023, when Eclat acquired the vacant building, occupancy has increased to over 70 percent. At the street level, The Shoppes at the Asbury, the newest unique boutique in Ocean City, features a wide array of products not found in your big box stores including children’s clothing, custom leather products, high-end men’s and women’s clothing lines, custom sporting clothing lines and the famous Di Bruno Brothers gourmet Italian meats and cheeses.

The Shoppes opened an art gallery in December, which features Jonathan Baker, the beloved artist from Margate, along with several other great artists. They have hosted several events to highlight their work.

The building is also home to Seapark, the only sushi restaurant in town, which features a nice outdoor seating area and a variety of items from bubble tea and sushi rolls to lobster rolls and ramen.

On the totally renovated upper floors you will find a variety of businesses including Soul Dreams Studio. It features a beautiful corner suite perfect for relaxing Reiki sessions. Soul Dreams offers several types of yoga classes for bodies of any age and abil -

Additional new tenants include Stephen Tulli, CFP, who is a financial advisor with LPL Financial. Tulli has been an advisor for 29 years. His mission is to provide impeccable personalized service and customized advice, all delivered with professional integrity. He specializes in goals-based planning, risk-based portfolios and retirement income strategies. You can contact him at 610-513-8018.

Lisa McMullen recently opened Studio 301, which is a fine art studio. She is new to Ocean City and hopes to begin an art makers’ co-op in the building to connect with other artists in the area. She is looking forward to sharing the vibrancy of art with the community. Lisa creates her own fine art paintings and accepts commissions. Reach her at www.cicalisadesigns.com.

John Devine from Brightway Healthcare, LLC, is an outpatient mental health and medication management services provider. You can reach John at 215-850-4538 or appointment@ brightwayhealth.com.

Dylan Caltabiano Wellness (DCW) is a new movement and functional nutrition studio coming to The Asbury Building in May. DCW will specialize in whole, encompassing, Pilates-inspired movement and power yoga classes set in a heater room. Beyond movement, DCW will create a safe and supportive environment for people to work on their individual nutrition and wellness journey. Through the combination of food, movement, and intention, DCW’s goal is to help you transform and grow

into the best version of you.

Local Lashes and Brows, LLC, opened by Theresa Dougherty-Holohan, is a personalized studio dedicated to addressing the unique needs of each client to enhance their appearance.

There are several other well respected professional services such as Legal Sight by India Dix; Patrick Davish, Realtor.

Gal 2, LLC, by Gloria Baker, a highend women’s apparel and lingerie business also has a very successful store in The Shoppes at Asbury.

There is Eclat Investments, which is a major investment company in real

estate and the owner of 801 Asbury. Lasty, there is RDM remodeling.

The owners of The Asbury Building are proud to be creating a truly diversified combination of businesses and services.

Remember to support local businesses, especially small businesses.

Asbury Avenue between 6th & 14th

April 5, 7pm

Ocean City Yacht Club

100 Bay Road

Doors open at 6:30pm

fashion show kickoff dance showcase

Lite Fare and Refreshments

$35 per person

Limited seating.

Tickets available at the Welcome Centers, or online at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice

Waterpark team members reduced environmental triggers for those with autism and other special needs by creating an environment with no music nor other loud noises, no flashing or bright lights and special “sensory rooms” for relaxation and play activities. Some 300 children, parents

and caregivers turned out to enjoy the experience. This first event

was so successful that Showboat plans to create more “Sensory Sundays” in the future!

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Whitney’s Weekly Picks

The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman

Get ready to discover the coolest happenings around town. Don’t miss the fun, grab your tickets in advance and be a part of the action. Show some love to your local venues and let’s make our section of the Jersey Shore shine. Oh, and remember to hashtag #gotowhitney, #thecitypulse and #shorelocal in your epic photos and videos.

Who: Total Knock In

Where: Anchor Rock Club

When: Friday, March 29

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: https://anchorrockclub. com//

Get ready to rock out with Total Knock In and Shark Earrings. These

bands will have your adrenaline pumping and you will be dancing all night long.

What: 2024 Easter Eggcitement Eggstravaganza-Atlantic City Takeover Where: Showboat Hotel & Resort

When: Friday, March 29-Sunday, March 31

Time: 7-10 p.m.

Website: https://www.eventbrite. com/

Get ready again for the most egg-citing event of the year at the Showboat Atlantic City and its brand new

water park. The Easter weekend fun includes seven events filled with laughter, dance, fashion, games and more. There will be a TikTok pajama party, dance showcase, kids fashion show and all white glow party.

Who: Aaron Lewis

Where: Ocean Casino Resort

When: Saturday, March 30

Time: 8 p.m.

Website:

https://www.theoceanac.com/entertainment/headliners/aaron-lewis *

Throughout his more than two-decade career, whether topping the charts as frontman of hard rock heroes Staind, or his second act as a No. 1 solo artist on the country charts, Aaron Lewis has always been painfully honest in his music.

What: Girls Day Out

Where: Renault Winery

When: Saturday, March 30

Time: Noon-4 p.m.

Website:

https://www.renaultwinery.com/ events/girls-day-out-2024-03-30/ It’s time to unwind and have some fun with your girlfriends, covering all the best hits from your favorite boy band days. Plus there will be options to purchase a wine tower with chocolate-covered strawberries or some Renault Barrel Stave Shotski.

What: UFC Fight Night

Where: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

When: Saturday, March 30

Time: 7 p.m.

Website:

https://www.boardwalkhall.com/ events/detail/ufc

A flyweight title shot may be on the line in the five-round main event of UFC Fight Night on March 30, when New Jersey’s own Erin “Cold Blooded” Blanchfield faces French sensation Manon Fiorot. With a combined UFC record of 12-0, Blanchfield and Fiorot have been on a tear at 125 pounds, and with one more win in Atlantic City, a crack at the crown is

expected to be next. Plus, Westwood native Vicente Luque continues on his quest to rule the welterweights when he battles highlight reel king Joaquin Buckley in what promises to be a memorable co-main event.

What: Somers Point Easter Egg Hunt

Where: John F. Kennedy Park

When: Saturday, March 30

Time: 10 a.m.

Website:

https://visitsomerspoint.com/event/ easter-egg-hunt-2/

The City of Somers Point will host an Easter Egg hunt 10 a.m. Saturday,

March 30, at JFK Park with free face painting until 11:30 a.m. There will be candy and prize-filled eggs. The hunt is open to kids ages 1-10. Bring your own bag for the hunt, but there will be bags for the first 250 kids. For more information, contact Doug Shallcross at 609-833-5428 or dshallcross@spgov.org.

What: Easter Weekend at Steel Pier

Where: Steel Pier

When: Saturday, March 30 & Sunday, March 31

↘Continued on 40

Time: Saturday, noon-10 p.m.; Sunday, noon-9 p.m.

Website: https://steelpier.com/ On Saturday, March 30 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. enjoy a pancake breakfast with the Easter Bunny that includes free rides. Kids 12 and under will receive a wristband with breakfast. Purchase tickets online. Don’t miss the Easter Bunny on Easter Sunday, available for a photo opportunity from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Treats will be given out while supplies last.

Renault’s Champagne and Vineyard ballrooms with an elegant and traditional Easter brunch. The Easter Bunny will be present and will have an Easter Egg hunt in the Champagne Ballroom Courtyard for all children attending. Children ages 1 and under are free.

What: Easter Brunch at The Claridge

Where: The Claridge Hotel

When: Sunday, March 31

Time: 10 a.m.

Website:

What: Easter Bunny Brunch at Renault Winery

Where: Renault Winery

When: Saturday, March 31

Time: 1:30 p.m.

Website: https://www.renaultwinery.com/ easterbrunch/

Enjoy the Easter Bunny Brunch in

https://www.claridge. com/dining-lounges/easter-brunch/ Reserve your seats for a day filled with scrumptious delights, Easter Bunny meet and greets, children’s activities, bunny photo ops, and joyous moments to create lasting memories.

What: Easter Parade at Historic Smithville

Where: Historic Smithville

When: Saturday, March 31

Time: 1 p.m.

Put on your Easter best and stroll the Village in style. Begins at the Smithville Inn at 1 p.m. Awards will be given for best outfits. Historic Smithville offers 50 Shoppes, seven eateries, a carousel ride, and train ride, pad -

dle boats, arcade, lodging at the Colonial Inn and over 26 free weekend events.

What: Easter Brunch at Showboat

Where: Showboat Hotel & Resort

When: Sunday, March 31

Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Website: https://www.eventbrite. com/

Celebrate Easter in style at the Showboat Hotel and Resort, where you can treat yourself to a delectable All You Can Eat Easter Brunch Buffet. Enjoy a mouthwatering selection of Easter favorites like succulent prime rib, perfectly crafted eggs Benedict, a delightful housemade waffle station, Alaskan crab legs, an array of freshly baked goods and so much more.

What: Amada’s Easter Brunch

Where: Ocean Casino Resort

When: Sunday, March 31

Time: 10 a.m.

Website: https://www.theoceanac. com/entertainment/dining-event/ amadas-easter-brunch

Spring is in full bloom. Celebrate your Easter brunch at Amada on Sunday, March 31. Don't miss out on a delightful brunch display featuring sweet and savory options such as a carving station, Sangria french toast and paella valeciana accompanied by live music and breathtaking views. Bottomless cocktails available to customers with brunch reservations only. Must be 21 to purchase. Cost is $75 per person (plus taxes & fees). Includes coffee, hot tea, and juice.

What: Comedy at Firewaters

Where: Firewaters Saloon at Tropicana Atlantic City

When: Every Monday & Friday

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: https://www.eventbrite. com/

Comedian and producer Matt Bridgestone presents comedy at the Tropicana Casino every Monday and Friday at Firewaters Saloon. Firewaters’ unique setting brings a rowdy Texas-style bar to the Jersey Shore. It is located in the marketplace section of the Tropicana, just down the hall from Hooters. Must be 21. No drink minimum, but full bar and full menu.

Veteran sax man still hitting the high notes

By Chuck Darrow

If you’ve seen—or are planning to see—“Motown Forever,” the high-octane revusical that runs Sundays through April 28 at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, you won’t just be seeing an rip-roaring salute to the likes of The Temptations, The Supremes and Stevie Wonder. You’ll also be seeing (and hearing) a little piece of legal-casino-era history.

That’s because the production’s fabulous eight-piece band includes Howard Issacson on saxophone and other instruments. Issacson has been performing at local casinos for some 35 years, both in gaming hall lounges and main stages (and, as you’ll see, the occasional hallway).

Of course, things were significantly different on the live-music scene when the Northeast Philadelphia native arrived in town in the late-1980s following a six-month stint touring

with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Back then, every casino featured live entertainment on a daily basis, especially in their lounges.

“If I recall, it was pretty flourishing,” offered Issacson during a recent interview. “There were times where I would work an afternoon gig, six or seven days a week, and then I'd go to a night gig at another casino. I could be working two shifts a day. It was just constant work.”

One long-running gig of his was in the “Basin Street Follies,” a smallscale variety show that ran for a number of years at the Showboat when it was a casino. The cast, which would generally include a singer, comic and several specialty acts (e.g. a juggler, ventriloquist, acrobats, etc.) changed every two weeks; at one point, the featured comedian was a then-unknown Ray Romano. Before performing in “Basin Street Follies,” remembered Issacson, “I was out in the hallway playing in [Showboat’s strolling] Dixieland band. So I'd work in the afternoon and then run over [to the lounge] and play there.”

While Issacson, whose day job the past 23 years has been teaching music at Egg Harbor Township High School, spent a large part of his pro -

fessional life playing the lounges that, back in the day, were as ubiquitous as slot machines in the city’s gambling dens. He also spent plenty of time backing headliners. It was standard operating procedure for singers (and sometimes comedians) to travel with a rhythm section (commonly piano, bass and drums) and then recruit whatever other musicians were needed in each locale they visited. That’s how he came to play behind the likes of Tony Bennett, Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin and Donny Osmond among other top attractions. But it’s the late Natalie Cole who occupies a special corner of his heart.

“At the time she came [to Caesars Atlantic City], she had that big band album [1992’s “Unforgettable…With Love”], and I listened to that so much and I loved it. It was all the songs that her father [Nat “King” Cole”] did, and the arrangements were just chilling. As a musician, you always hear the arrangements. And I thought, ‘I’d love to play that saxophone section; man, that'd be great.’

“Then she comes in and I get a call to do it. Well, that gave me chills.”

As if teaching full-time (and giving music instructions part-time) and playing in “Motown Forever” (and the 11th annual edition of “The Burlesque Show,” which opens in May at Borga -

ta) weren’t enough to keep Issacson busy, he is also a jazz artist of some note whose CDs can be streamed on Spotify, Apple Music and the like and who has appeared regularly at regional jazz festivals. Which makes him a happy—if, perhaps, tired--individual.

“I’m just really lucky,” he proclaimed, “that I still get to do something I enjoy.”

Nobu sets special dinner

Culinary megastar Nobu Matsuhisa will make a rare public appearance at his eponymous Asian-fusion outpost at Caesars on April 19.

He’ll be hosting an event at which guests will be able to get up close and personal with him while they avail themselves of a specially curated menu and specialty cocktails while listening to tunes provided by a DJ.

Admission to the soiree that begins at 6:30 p.m. is $200 per person (it sounds expensive, but given that Nobu is unlike any other restaurant in terms of the brilliance of its food and presentation thereof, it’s not a wholly unreasonable ask).

For tickets, go to opentable.com.

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

Friday, March 29

Brit Floyd

Atlantic City Headliners

▶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

Sunday, March 31

Motown Forever

▶4 p.m.

Music Box at Borgata

Friday, April 5

Anna Lapwood

▶7 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

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

Carpenters Legacy

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Dean Cole

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Whose Live Anyway?

▶9 p.m.

Harrah’s Atlantic City

Saturday, April 13

Musiq Soulchild & Eric Benet

▶8 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom at Tropicana Casino

Motley Crue

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Godsmack

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Todd Rundgren

▶9 p.m.

Harrah’s Atlantic City

Saturday, May 4

Motley Crue

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

The Black Crowes

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

A.J. Croce presents Croce Plays

Croce

▶8 p.m. Tropicana Showroom

Sunday, May 5

Victor Manuelle

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Friday, May 10

Kelly Clarkson

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Tyler Henry: The Hollywood Medium

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Saturday, May 11

Kelly Clarkson

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Tyler Henry: The Hollywood Medium

Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars

On-Sale This Week

The Queens of R&B: SWV & Xscape

▶Sat. July 27, 7 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

God Save the Queen

▶Fri. Sept. 6 & Sat. Sept. 7, 8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Anthony Rodia

▶Fri. Nov. 1, 8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

All tickets on sale Friday, Mar. 29, 10 a.m.

Brit Floyd

Kelly Clarkson

Jersey Shore Jazz Vespers keeps musical tradition going at AC church

By William Sokolic

If you wanted to catch the jazz piano stylings of Robin Van Duzee, you could have spent an evening at Dock’s Oyster House Saturday or Sunday. Or you could have seen Van Duzee, and three of his musician colleagues, provide a rare treat indeed in the Asbury United Methodist Church on Pacific Avenue in Atlantic City.

Van Duzee and friends played at the Jersey Shore Jazz Vespers, a program the church has presented on the fourth Sunday of every month for more than a decade.

The Vespers have a growing list of musicians who rotate through the church each month. The list has included Ralph Peterson, Jr., Angela Burton and the Eddie Morgan Quartet, the latter featuring Van Duzee as well.

improvise anything.”

Vespers refers to the Judeo-Christian tradition of evening prayer, consisting of psalms, hymns, chants, prayers, and readings from the scriptures. Today, many different spiritual communities have embraced vespers and will often include contemporary innovations such as congregational singing, readings from a variety of texts, poetry, silent meditation, or contemplation, according to the Eno River Unitarian, Universalist Fellowship.

Incorporating jazz music adds another dimension.

The musicians with Van Duzee, as tight a group as you can get, have long called the Atlantic City area their home. They performed twice during the March 24 service, playing mostly Duzee compositions, and a handful of covers, including the surprise closing numbers – a jazz rock instrumental version of The Doobie Brothers “Takin' it to the Streets.”

Joining Duzee on the makeshift stage were Bob Shomo on drums, Andy Lalasis on bass, and Greg Grispart on sax.

“The nice thing is I get to perform songs I wrote,” Van Duzee said about playing the Vespers. “And we could

“Music is a universal language,” said Allen Maddox, chairman of the Jersey Shore Jazz Vespers, which began at a sister church in neighboring Ventnor. The Ventnor United Methodist Church, under the direction of Clancy Wilson, turned it to Atlantic City in 2012, where it has remained except during the COVID pandemic, according to Maddox.

Another advantage besides offering music with the service is offering support for the local jazz scene. Musicians come from the Philadelphia-South and Central Jersey area, but they do receive remuneration for their performances. “There’s a bunch of talent in the area. Musicians love playing here, too,” Maddox said.

The Jazz Vespers get assistance from Thrive AC, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority and the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, along with Friends of the Jersey Shore Jazz Vespers.

Van Duzee grew up in upstate New York, near Saratoga Springs. He attended the prestigious Berklee

School of Music. In 1990, and relocated to Atlantic City as a pianist accompaniment for a friend. He stayed and has carved out a storied local career: clubs, concerts, music director and arranger.

He performed in the casinos. As lounges morphed into slot parlors, he played the jazz fest circuit. He called Showboat home from 2001 to 2006. Along with work with Eddie Morgan, Van Duzee plays with the Howard Isaacson Band. And he plays Dock’s Oyster

House Saturday and Sunday nights.

In April, percussionist Dru Coley will bring a contingent of musicians. Coley volunteers with sound checks and to record performances.

If You Go:

The Jersey Shore Jazz Vespers present an afternoon of jazz and worship on the fourth Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m.

The location is the Asbury United Methodist Church, 1213 Pacific Ave., Atlantic City. Parking behind the church. There is no charge, but the organizers recommend a donation during the service. Dru Coley performs on April 28.

For information, call 609-3481941 or visit them on Facebook.

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

From Right to Left: Bob Shomo drums, Greg Grispart, sax, Andy Lalasis, bass, Robin Van Duzee, piano

Allen Maddox, and behind him is Robin Duzee

ROMANELLI'S Garden

Tropicana chef exemplifies the perfect honoree for Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala

By Scott Cronick

Ask Chef Demetrios Haronis about something going on at Tropicana, where he has worked most of his career, and he will likely begin his answer by talking about his culinary team or someone on it.

Modest doesn’t begin to describe Haronis, who literally looks uncomfortable when asked about his accomplishments.

So, I will make him more uncomfortable and use some words to describe him: talented, intelligent, kind, thoughtful, loyal, hardworking, loving, generous, creative, and an Atlantic City legend.

rior who lets his quiet and intimidating presence say more than most could with words. He’s a gentle giant who has more respect than any other chef in the city.

And he earned every bit of it.

So, perhaps more than any other time in the 30 years that I have been going to the Atlantic Cape Community College Restaurant Gala, I was truly touched when Haronis was this year’s culinary honoree, an annual tradition bestowed on a graduate of the esteemed Academy of Culinary Arts, which is the best school of its kind in the state.

I also knew Haronis, who is by far the longest reigning executive chef/ director of culinary at an Atlantic City casino, was going to feel very awkward speaking about himself in front of 1,000 people. So, what did he do?

He thanked others, of course … and he kept his speech brief.

Anyone who knows him wasn’t surprised a bit. That’s who Demetrios Haronis is.

Demetrios Haronis isn’t just a chef. He is a friend. A good friend.

He’s someone I call when I need some true guidance, a person who really keeps a secret in the vault intuitively. He’s someone I can always count on no matter what I ask of him. He’s someone who always has your back if he’s your friend. He’s someone you want in your corner when the chips are stacked against you. At about 6-foot-4, with another foot added for his chef’s hat that he always wears, Haronis is a soft-spoken war-

A culinary star is born

Two of those people Haronis thanked were his late father Spiro and his 87-year-old mother Helen, who was in the crowd being the proud mom she should be.

After all, it was Haronis’ parents who got him started in this crazy business in the first place.

At one point, the Haronis family lived in Washington, D.C, where Spiro and his business partner/chef would

↘Continued on 48

Chef Demetrios Haronis is honored by Atlantic Cape Community College’s Restaurant Gala organizers including (from left) Restaurant Gala Co-Chair Terry Budd, Atlantic Cape Foundation Board President Jim Rutala and Atlantic Cape Chief of Staff and Chief Advancement Officer Jean Mcalister.

run the acclaimed and legendary The Monocle Restaurant, which has been a Capitol Hill institution since 1960 and still exists today.

“They would run The Monocle in the winter, and then in the summertime, they would come here to run our restaurant on the Wildwood Boardwalk,” said Haronis, remembering the restaurant specialized in seafood and Italian cuisine. "I started working there and cooking there. Every summer we would do that.”

Eventually the Haronis family relocated to the Jersey Shore permanently, and they opened several restaurants in Cape May County, including locations in the Royal Hawaiian Motel and Bar Harbour hotel in Wildwood Crest.

“My mother and father worked in the restaurants together, but that’s where it all started for me,” Haronis said.

Spiro was quite the role model. He also learned the business through family connections as his parents owned a hotel on Kentucky Avenue in Atlantic City. Not only was he an amazing restaurateur, but previous to that he was also a real-life warrior, returning to Greece to fight in guerilla warfare fashion against the communists and the Germans, and later returned to fight for the United

States military in the Korean War.

But, tragedy struck when Spiro died unexpectedly at 55 years old from a heart attack when Demetrios was only 10 years old.

By then, the restaurant business was in Helen’s blood to the point that she ran the restaurants Spiro left behind, including the Longport Inn. And Demetrios would cook at the restaurants, as well.

“It was tough, but she learned the business, and back then it was even tougher being a woman running restaurants,” Haronis said. “She worked until I had to force her to retire back in 2006 or so. I know she was having fun and loving the social part of it, but it was just time.”

Career choice

and as restaurant chef in the players club, the former steak and seafood house called Regent Court, the former Pier 7 seafood house, the Italian staple Il Verdi and eventually being named Director of Culinary nearly 20 years ago.

Haronis has seen a lot transpire over those years, including multiple ownership changes, many casino presidents and bosses coming and going, restaurants opening and closing, COVID-19, economies thriving and collapsing and Atlantic City having its peaks and valleys.

Although it seemed like Haronis didn’t really have a choice as to which career he would pursue, he actually did.

Haronis was actually enrolled in Stockton College, but in between semesters he decided to head to the Academy.

“Even though I grew up in the restaurant business, my parents didn’t

really want that for me,” he said. “But it’s what I wanted, it’s what I knew. So, in January between semsters, I was already enrolled in Stockton and had to drop classes and hurry up and sign up at the Academy. I remember walking in with a full beard and they looked at me and said, ‘You have to shave!’ Then I started the work and said, ‘What the hell did I get myself into?’ But it’s the best thing I ever did.”

Coming out of the Academy, Haronis got his first – and only - job at the Tropicana, where he has been for about 30 years, starting as a sous chef working graveyard shift in the coffee shop and rising up to banquets

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One of his most memorable creations was Fin, a seafood restaurant overlooking the ocean that became Haronis’ first signature restaurant in 2010.

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“That was my baby,” Haronis said. “(Former Vice President of Food and Beverage Al Maiorani) came to me and said, ‘This is going to be your restaurant.’ Before Fin, I was always behind the scenes. So, I told them we needed to use Jersey seafood and offer sushi, which no one else was really doing then. I wanted to bring back that Zaberers experience because there weren’t any seafood restaurants in the casinos even though we are right on the beach. Al forced me to be in the front and talk to diners, which was something I wasn’t comfortable doing. But, after a while, I grew to love it.”

Like most casino restaurants, Fin was replaced when Iron Chef Jose Garces was lured to the Tropicana to open Olon, a coastal cusine restaurant inspired by Ecuador, and its sister Japanese restaurant Okatshe. Both were great, but now that they are both gone, people still wish Fin was still around.

“Every five or six years, you just have to expect things change,” Haronis said. “At the time, it made sense to bring in Jose Garces. Plus, seafood places and steakhouses are expensive to run. As much as I loved Fin, you just have to accept those things will happen in this business.”

Haronis honored

When Haronis was honored last week at the Restaurant Gala at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center, he didn’t show up in a fancy suit or tux … he wore his chef whites with his giant white chef’s hat.

“I wanted to be with my guys working tonight,” he said. “I don’t have a speech prepared, just a list of people I want to thank. I have been lucky and had a lot of mentors over the years. I got a lot of help from a lot of people. We don’t do this by ourselves. No matter how great you are, you can’t do it

Chef Demetrios Haronis poses with his proud mom Helen and Scott and LaRissa Cronick at the Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala.

without your team. So, to me, this is recognition for the whole team. That’s how I look at it.”

That list included Academy chef educators Klaus Muller, Jeffrey Phillips and, at the top of the list, George Richert.

“He was the man,” Haronis said of Richert. “He was the guy every chef wanted to be like.”

Haronis also praised fellow local legend and former Ram’s Head Inn Executive Chef Luigi Baretto, and former Tropicana co-workers, including former Executive Chef Joseph LaPorte and Steve Callender, who Haronis said was his “best boss ever.”

On the night Haronis was honored, the sold-out Gala raised the most money it has every raised - $306,000 – to help the Academy continue the amazing work it does preparing students for the real world in the culinary field.

“The Academy is always a special place for me,” Haronis said. “And it’s so great to see how it has evolved. They have amazing facilities now with great equipment. It has come a long way from where it was. The bake shop we used to call little house on the prairie because it was this one room, old building away from everything else. Now they have a wood-burning pizza oven, amazing equipment, computers and the best of everything. But no matter how much equipment and technology evolves, you still have to learn the fundamentals, the basics. There are no shortcuts to good food. A lot of people don’t learn the basics. They don’t know how to make mayonnaise, but they want to make a lime tartar aioli or some crazy thing. You have to learn to crawl before you run.”

Director of the Academy of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Joseph Sheridan said honoring Haronis was a no-brainer.

“Chef Demetrious was the perfect choice to be our alumni honoree at the Atlantic Cape Restaurant Gala,” said Sheridan, who was named 2024 Chef of the Year by the Professional Chefs Association of South Jersey. “His exceptional journey from Academy of Culinary Arts graduate to Executive Chef and community leader makes him a true role model for our culinary students and the next generation of aspiring chefs. I’m proud to call him a colleague and friend.”

No regrets

Working in the casinos – or anywhere for that matter - for more than three decades could sour a lot of people and make them wish for early retirement. But not Haronis.

“I have zero regrets,” Haronis said. “I still enjoy coming to work and problem-solving. It’s something different every day, and that’s the key. You can get tired of doing the same thing every

day. We have so much going on at the Tropicana and in Atlantic City and the casinos, that the job is different every day. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I don’t want to be sitting behind a desk. I want to be in the kitchen. It’ s exciting and new every day.”

Haronis does have some inspirational words for those thinking of pursuing a culinary career.

“You get what you put into it,” he said. “How hard you work is what you get out of it. Volunteer, get involved, give back, don’t chase money and don’t chase titles. Do this job because you love it and it’s a passion and you can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Well said, Chef.

Scott Cronick is an awardwinning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades. He hosts a daily radio show – "Off The Press with Scott Cronick" - 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com, and he also coowns Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall in Atlantic City, while working on various projects, including charitable efforts, throughout the area. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.

AT BOARDWALK HALL

Friday, April 5th, 2024 7:00 PM

www.boardwalkorgans.org

SPRING SPECIALS

8 OZ PRIME TOP SIRLOIN STEAK SCAMPI 25

over grilled asparagus and mashed potato topped with three jumbo shrimp

6 OZ WAGYU SKIRT STEAK WITH GRILLED SCALLOPS 25

over grillled asparagus and mashed potato

FISH & CHIPS 22

breaded cod served with French fries and cole slaw

STUFFED FLOUNDER 25

served with grilled asparagus and mashed potato

APPS ALA CARTE

ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS 12

tossed in a sweet Thai chili sauce and a side of chipotle ranch

BUFFALO CHICKEN BITES 10

served with Bleu cheese

COCONUT SHRIMP POPPERS 9 in a sweet Thai chili sauce

Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, March 28

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge

Chris Farrell

5:30 – 9 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

DJ Chris Devine

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 Night Anthem

7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Karaoke Hosted by Mike Dempsey

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Gregory’s

Cole Moore

6 – 8 p.m.

900 Shore Rd.

Queen Jayne’s

SKJ Duo

6 – 9 p.m.

264 New Rd.

Friday, March 29

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Jeremy Oren

6 p.m.

Kristina Pruitt

9:15 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

Total Knock In, Shark Earrings, Max Volante, Neanderthal

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

Council Oak Lounge

Paul Johns 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

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Megan Knight Duo

7 p.m.

The Benjamins

Doug

Jump

Sindi

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Miller Time

6 – 10 p.m.

Deck Band

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

FM Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Liquid A

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Mad Bunny Bar at Resorts

Geri Mingori

6 – 9 p.m.

DJ Chaz

9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

The Wave at Golden Nugget

Echoes: Pink Floyd Tribute

9 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave.

The Yard at Bally’s

DJ Freezie

8 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

The Way Out Duo

9:30 p.m. 500 Boardwalk

Wild Wild West

DJ Vito G

9 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.

Shot of Southern

Egg Harbor Township

The Roost Pub & Grill

Motts Creek Pickers

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Dean Dunlevy

7:30 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Millville

Levoy Theatre

A Brother’s Revival

8 p.m.

126-130 N. High St.

Smithville

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Steve Gitto

7 – 10 p.m.

1 N. New York Rd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay Big Foot Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Saturday, March 30

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Dominic Martino

6 p.m.

Jeremy Oren

9:15 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

Gimme Gimme Disco: A Dance Party Celebrating Disco

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

Council Oak Lounge

Paul Jost Trio

5 – 8 p.m.

DJ Muve

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

DB Duo

7 p.m.

Lost in Paris

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Steve Moore & MIA

5 – 9 p.m.

Don’t Call Me Francis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall

Glenn Roberts

8 – 11 p.m.

10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.

2100 Pacific Ave.

Egg Harbor City

Renault Winery

Philly Keys

6 – 11 p.m.

133 S. Tennessee Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Aftershock

5 – 8:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk 450

Kristen & The Noise

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

72 N. Bremen Ave.

The Mad Bunny Bar at Resorts

Beth Tinnon

6 – 9 p.m. DJ Gary

9 p.m. – 2 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk

The Royce Social Hall

DJ Dahve

9 p.m. 2831 Pacific Ave.

The Yard at Bally’s

DJ Rashaun

9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Gypsy Wisdom

10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Isn’t it Always Acoustic Duo

6 p.m.

Amanda & Teddy

9:30 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Wild Wild West

DJ Aiden Scott

9 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.

Goodman Fiske

10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.

2100 Pacific Ave.

Egg Harbor City

Renault Winery

John King

12 – 4 p.m. 72 N. Bremen Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Matt Adams

7:30 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd.

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

Smokey Starr

7 – 10 p.m. 1 N. New York Rd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Doug Jennings

4 – 7 p.m. Jump the Line Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Gregory’s Live DJ

9 p.m. 900 Shore Rd.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Panama Dead

7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St.

Sunday, March 31

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge

Mike Laguardia

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

Adam Holcombe Duo

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

The Way Outs

4 – 7:30 p.m.

Billy Walton Band

8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Margate Bocca

Jim Shaw

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Somers Point

Josie Kelly’s Traditional Irish Music

1 – 4 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Monday, April 1

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Red

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Tuesday, April 2

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Patty & Bugzy

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Wednesday, April 3

Absecon

Reddog’s Hi Point Pub Live Music

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.

Millville

Levoy Theatre

Jazz Ambassadors

7 p.m.

126-130 N. High St.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Open Mic Night hosted by Blue Eagle

7 – 11 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Gregory’s

Sharon Sable & Joe Holt: The Music of Blossom Dearie

7 – 8:30 p.m.

900 Shore Rd.

Events subject to change.

AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach Series to feature top national acts

Tune In, Turn On

By Doug Deutsch

What we’ve observed since moving back to Atlantic City is that everybody at the Jersey Shore gets excited when spring comes around, signaling the busy summer season isn’t far behind. What excites us most is knowing we’ll be getting calls and emails from Carmen and Nancy Marotta announcing not only their annual Mardi Gras in AC Summer Concert Series at Kennedy Plaza across from Boardwalk Hall, but also their 2024 AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point, which take place at Bay Avenue on the beach in Somers Point. All shows are at 7 p.m. on Friday nights and free to all ages.

“We’ll start nearly three months from now (June 14) and that won’t be long,” Carmen Marotta told me during one of our recent music chats.

“We burst onto the South Jersey concert scene that night when we host emerging roots-rock Americana artists, Bywater Call, and bring their Canadian Big Band and fresh Southern soul to start our season out with a bang. They’ve been creating tremendous excitement at concert series and festivals around the world, and they’ll be premiering at the Jersey Shore right here (at our AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach Series),” said Carmen.

Before we get to the big-name acts performing at AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point for the upcoming season, Carmen also informed us he’s reached an agreement to bring a big-name blues-roots female guitarist to the Boardwalk for the Mardi Gras in AC shows in August (we’re sworn to secrecy here and unable to say who just yet; certain agreements, etc. have to be signed before this show can go public). Trust me on this one and save

the date, Aug. 28, at Kennedy Plaza.

Back to the AtlantiCare series. After Bywater Call, said Carmen, “our Jersey Shore Rock ‘n’ Soul Guitar Hero will lead one of the greatest bands in the entire tri-state area, The Billy Walton Band with Destinee Monroe, to celebrate the start of summer on June 21.

“Then,” Marotta continued, “it will be everybody’s favorite party-dance

band doing rock ‘n’ roll, disco, dance, and plenty of today’s funky sounds when the entertaining, tight, and highly professional Dane Anthony Band rocks the beach on Friday, June 28.”

Things only heat up from there with a July 4 performance by John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band (performing the legacy of “Eddie and the Cruisers.”

Tommy Castro and the Painkillers will play the 2024 AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach Series in Somers Point Aug. 30. Photo by John Loreaux

“The original soundtrack these artists wrote and recorded include the huge hits ‘Dark Side,’ ‘Tender Years,’ and all the songs that made the ‘Eddie and the Cruisers' movie famous,” Marotta added. Expect “fireworks everywhere and Cruisers songs in the air!”

New Orleans/Mardi Gras lovers (Colleen Nola, hello!) won’t want to miss “one of the world’s greatest Cajun fiddlers and Bourbon Street entertainers, Waylon Thibodeaux, starring with New Orleans-based piano professor, Ben Levin, and his band on July 5,” said Marotta (local guitar virtuoso Danny Eyer opens).

Thibodeaux, Levin and Eyer also perform Monday, July 8, for the Tony Mart’s Presents Jersey Gumbo Cook Off & Music Festival, at the cool bay

roots vocalist Dana Fuchs, and Patty Balbo’s tribute to the women of rock ‘n’ roll from the ’60s to today. July 19 is a blues music lover's dream show with the Phantom Blues Band (who’ve played with everyone from Taj Mahal and Bonnie Raitt to B.B. King), along with Chicago blues vocal legend Curtis Salgado, plus violinist Heather “Lil Mama" Hardy.

July 26 is a big show with the Last Waltz Tribute “featuring great national headliners from New Orleans and around the world in a musical rendition of the Martin Scorsese film, 'The Last Waltz,' which captured the final concert by The Band after they left Tony Mart’s in Somers Point in 1965 to perform for the final time with Bob Dylan on Thanksgiving 1976,” said Marotta.

The all-star performers that night: Dave Malone, Honey Island Swamp Band, Bonerama’s Mark Mullins, harpist-vocalist Johnny Sansone (whose set at Kennedy Plaza last summer was memorably good), and respected blues guitar veteran Steady Rollin’ Bob Margolin. They’ll perform music from the movie by Van Morrison, Neil Young, Eric Clapton and more.

Aug. 2 sees multiple-Grammy-winning producer/musician Tom Hambridge “performing the music he wrote and produced for artists like Susan Tedeschi, Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top and Buddy Guy, to name a few,” said Marotta, with Tuscon-based singer/songwriter Kevin Pakulis and band, plus outlaw country music playin’ violinist, Heather ‘Lil’ Mama Hardy.

Reggae greats Third World (“Now That We Found Love,” “96 Degrees

2 will see multiple-Grammy-winning

season ends on a ‘Good Old Days’ weekend. On Sept. 6 we’ll be throwing a colossal rock ‘n’ roll party with both the Tony Mart’s All-Stars and popular area recording artists and rock ‘n’ roll party band, Red,” said Marotta. “This will be a dance party marathon of over three hours of music,” he added.

It’s different every concert, but the shows are always great.

“Celebrate the Jersey Shore’s good times together with family and friends. Fourteen weeks of the finest and diverse, free entertainment all summer long – the best time of your life,” Marotta concluded.

Count us in!

Bruce Springsteen tribute band, The E Street Shuffle, “who tore it up on the beach in 2023.”

Aug. 30 (Labor Day weekend) sees West Coast-based blues guitarist/ vocalist – and one of the nicest guys in the biz, (my words here) – Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, back again to play in Somers Point this summer.

But wait, there’s more, right, Carmen?

“As it is appropriate the summer

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.

Dana Fuchs will perform July 12 in the 2024 AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach Series in Somers Point. Photo by John Loreaux

Aug.

producer/musician Tom Hambridge performing at the 2024 AtlantiCare Concerts on the Beach Series in Somers Point. Photo by John Loreaux

Highlights from the 3rd Annual Ladies In The Arts Awards at The Arts Garage

By Raymond Tyler

On Sunday afternoon, March 24, women and men from across South Jersey, and parts of New York and Philadelphia, came out to celebrate the ladies in the arts from South Jersey.

This is the third year that The Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University has been the host venue and lead sponsor for The Ladies In The Arts Awards, a yearly event curated by Atlantic City Arts Commissioner, Raymond Tyler (and Black Art Matters curator).

This year’s honorees included organizations, a podcast, and women that are arts advocates, women that have started youth programs, do spoken word, visual artists, recording artists and radio personalities.

The list of Ladies In The Arts winners includes: Patrice Hawthorne, Annette Smith/Brown Sugar, Joyce Hagen, Shoanne Seijas, April Williams, Nettie Long poetry, Pam Fields, and Loreal Vintage, The Atlantic City Chapter of The Links, The Sip and

Discuss Podcast, Anne Glapion, and The 40 Plus Double Dutch Club!

Highlights of this year’s Ladies In The Arts Award included recording artist April “Chocolate Gurl” Williams opening the show with a soulful rendition of “So High.”

Also during the opening of the program, former Ladies In The Arts award winner Bashira Khan welcomed everyone and brought greetings from her group, The Women’s Community Consulting Group.

One of the many moving and emotional moments of The Ladies In The Arts Awards 2024 was when Nynell Langford discussed the history of many of Atlantic City’s greatest women such as Rosalind Cash and Soundra E. Usry-Hollingsworth.

Nynell Langford wrapped up her discussion by sharing the names of 25 women whose sacrifice to the City of Atlantic City still lives on.

During the awards show, special

guest presenter Julie Hain , the director of The South Jersey Cultural Alliance, gave a heartfelt speech, explaining why Shoanne Seijas is so important to the arts community of South Jersey.

There were many special guests in the audience including Ben Rose from the department of tourism for the City of Wildwood. Also in the audience was curator of the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey Ralph Hunter. Anne Roseberg, former member of The Atlantic City Arts Commission, also attended to support The Ladies In The Arts.

The 2024 Ladies In The Arts Awards also delighted attendees with a surprise appearance and greeting from Judy Ward the Mayor of Pleasantville.

The one performance that got everyone up and moving was the great energy of The 40+ Double Dutch Club, South Jersey Chapter. The group of 13 women assembled to demonstrate their mastery of dance, step, cheer and school yard athletics.

Joyce Hagen discussed her legacy.

Patrice Hawthorne shared her amazing voice as she accepted her award and even got host Raymond Tyler to sing. Michelle Moseley and Khalidah Hunter of “The Sip and Discuss Podcast,” talked about the power of healing through connecting with people via a microphone. The president of The Links, Atlantic City Chapter discussed the history of the organization, where The Links is today and where the organization is heading in the future.

Along with the 12 awards given for The Ladies In The Arts, two additional awards were presented for Outstanding Ladies in Leadership.

The first Outstanding Ladies In Leadership Award went to Shermaine Gunter-Gary (she was not present) for her years of dedication. The second award for the Outstanding Ladies In Leadership Award went to Stephenine Dixon. Dixon moved many

The performance of The 40+ Double Dutch Club turned The Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University into a playground for the day and reminded every one of their favorite games.

After the performance of The 40+ Double Dutch Club, their captain, Vernell Prince, accepted their award from AtlantiCare’s Vincent Kirkland.

Throughout the awards show, many of the honorees discussed how their hard work, their community of women, the inspiration of mentors, and God led them to success.

in the crowd as they applauded her message to “know your value.” Dixon also inspired many by explaining the sacrifices she’s made to represent Atlantic City and to fight for the rights of all people.

The closing remarks came from The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, South Jersey Chapter, represented by their public relations officer, Christine Prosser.

The event ended with people dancing in their chairs and standing up as April Williams closed the show with the soul bop classic song, “Don’t Play That Song For Me.”

Although there were a total of 14 awards given out on Sunday, the entire community won at The 2024 Ladies In The Arts Awards.

The 40+ The Double Dutch Club of South Jersey takes a bow. Photo by Lamar Roberts

Group photo of host Raymond Tyler with The Ladies In The Arts. Photo By Lamar Roberts.

174 MinPG13 GHOSTBUSTERS

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By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer

SShore Local Women’s Network announces April meetup

hore Local Women's Network is excited to announce its upcoming event on April 4, featuring renowned speaker and public relations expert, Lisa Johnson. The event will take place at Josie Kelly’s Public House from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Organizers invite attendees to participate in a hands-on public relations challenge, applying crisis management tips and tricks to everyday bumps in business. Lisa Johnson will provide her professional input and guide participants through fun, interactive and informative activities.

Lisa Johnson is the President of Lisa Johnson Communications, LLC, a media and public relations agency with clients in the Atlantic City, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Miami and Las Vegas markets. The agency represents and consults for casinos & sportsbooks--both online and retail-along with hotels, golf courses, restaurants, retail, real estate developers, architects, attorneys, politicians, global

security experts, insurance agencies, entertainers and media.

Before starting her own company, Lisa was an Executive Board Member and Executive Director of Brand Communications for Las Vegas Sands. Prior to that, she was an award-winning news anchor and reporter for 15 years at TV stations

KLAS-TV in Las Vegas, NBC 10 in

Philadelphia and NBC 40 in New Jersey. She also hosted multiple female fitness competitions for ESPN 2.

Lisa is an alumna of the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton School of Business where she studied a dual major of English Literature and Entrepreneurial Management. A local Jersey girl through and through she is a proud graduate of Mainland Region -

al High School where she graduated 12th in her class with honors. She is also a member of the Mensa Club. She resides in Egg Harbor Township.

If you’d like to attend, please bring a $30 payment through cash or check on the day of the event. A delicious lunch is included in the admission fee. Purchase in advance using the following link: https://www.ticketsource. us/.../2024-04-04/11:30/t-vvqxnpn.

Shore Local Women's Network is a community of professionals who are passionate about their careers and want to connect with other like-minded women. Whether you are looking for a mentor, a collaborator, a friend, or a referral, this is the network for you. We are here to help one another, grow our network, learn new skills, and share our experiences. Join us the first Thursday of every month and discover the benefits of being part of this supportive and empowering network.

For more information, follow the Shore Local Women’s Network on Facebook at "Shore Local Women’s Network," or visit shorelocalnews. com.

Attendees gather for a group photo following the March gathering of the Shore Local Women’s Network.

Bring elegance to your shade garden with Lenten roses

Let It Grow

By Tammy Thornton

Looking for a way to elevate your shade garden? Consider the elegant flowers of hellebores. Because of their bloom time, they are also known as Lenten roses, Christmas roses, or winter roses, since they bloom in late winter and early spring. Although all of these nicknames refer to them as roses, hellebores are not related to roses at all but are in the Ranunculaceae family, like buttercups.

Hellebores go against the odds, blooming under circumstances that are usually problematic for gardeners. Despite their delicate beauty, hellebores are tough perennials that laugh at the cold, often waking from their winter’s beauty sleep before other early bloomers, such as daffodils. Since hellebores are cold-hardy in USDA zones 4-9, they are perfectly suited for our Shore Local readers who are mostly gardening in Zone 7.

Shady spots often prove a challenge for gardeners, but hellebores thrive in dappled light. They grow well under the canopy of deciduous trees and would add a touch of class to a woodland garden. In addition to being cold- and shade-tolerant, these jewels of the garden are also deer- and rabbit-resistant. This is because all parts of the plant are toxic both to humans and animals, so deer and rabbits will find hellebores distasteful. Use caution with these plants near pets and curious young children.

In addition to their other worthy qualities, hellebores are known for their long-lasting blooms both on the plant and as cut flowers. Like demure belles of the ball, these beauties are dressed for a gala but slightly bow their modest faces. To truly appreciate their detailed flowers, you’ll want to kneel down, tip the hanging flower heads and take a closer look. As cut flowers, lightly score the ends of the stems so that they will take in more water and last longer in the vase.

While hellebores don’t necessarily die back in summer, they do take a little breather to conserve energy once the weather gets too hot. Even so, during this period of slower growth, you should still be able to enjoy their leathery evergreen leaves. Use this time to prune away any diseased or damaged foliage. When your attention turns to all of the sun-loving plants in your garden,

hellebores will be quietly storing energy for the next season. They take years to grow from seed, so hellebores can be among the pricier flowers. However, once established, hellebores fall under the easy-tocare-for category. If you’re lucky, the original plant will disperse seeds and produce new plants for your garden.

Hellebores are among the earliest perennials to bloom in the new season. These sleeping beauties will wake up just when we need it most, encouraging us to push through those final days of winter and early spring cold spells. They come in a wide range of colors. Though they make a fine specimen plant, once you are smitten, it will be hard to be satisfied with just one. Once established, hellebores will reward you year after year with their no-fuss beauty.

Have you grown this elegant flower in your garden? We would love to see your favorites. Please send your pictures, comments, and questions 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.

Shore Medical Center receives a $20,000 donation from the 2023 Kyle Evans Memorial Golf Outing

Donation supports Shore’s efforts in attacking the opioid epidemic in the community

Shore Medical Center announced that it has received $20,000 from the 2023 Kyle Evans Memorial Golf Outing proceeds. This annual event focuses on preventing new opioid addictions, raising awareness, and helping people realize they are not fighting their addiction alone. The 2023 Kyle Evans Memorial Golf Outing will return to Harbor Pines Golf Club on Friday, April 26.

David Beyel, Jr. and Jason Dugan presented the $20,000 check to David Hughes, president of Shore Medical Center, on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. Beyel, Jr., and Dugan are members of OAR13, a nonprofit organization focused on attacking the opioid epidemic at its source and supporting new treatment methods in the community.

“Sadly, I think it would be difficult to find someone who hasn’t had the opioid epidemic affect their lives in some way. And, we’re realizing more and more, it often happens in silence,” said David Beyel, Jr., on behalf of OAR13. “Kyle was among

the top athletes in the country, was incredibly smart, and the most competitive guy you’d ever meet. Losing Kyle was another example of how this can affect anyone. We’ve lost far too many friends and classmates to something we feel doesn’t get a powerful enough response and resources.

“We chose Shore as a recipient of funds to help with patient care and prevention of new addictions,” added Beyel, Jr. “We also hope the attention generated by the golf outing helps remove the stigma of addiction, so people don’t battle in silence and feel more comfortable to look for support from family and friends.”

To date, OAR13 has donated $60,000 to Shore Medical Center to help in the fight against opioid abuse. “With the generous donations to Shore from OAR13, we have made significant technological advances to improve the processes and procedures related to pain medication management,” said David Hughes. “We thank them for their support and all they do to help our community through the opioid crisis.”

•

March

Funds will help Shore Medical Center improve current opioid-related programs and implement new initiatives.

“We continuously work to im ● IV push diphenhydramine (Benad

On

12, David Hughes, president of Shore Medical Center (center), accepted a $20,000 donation from David Beyel, Jr., left, and Jason Dugan on behalf of OAR13, a nonprofit organization focused on attacking the opioid epidemic at its source and supporting new treatment methods in the community.

Michael Pedicin, Jr.: Doctor Saxophone

By Bruce Klauber

It’s impossible to pigeonhole Michael Pedicin, Jr. He is a firstrate jazz saxophonist, jazz educator and recording artist. He’s been a star sideman with everyone from Brubeck to Bowie, and a musical contractor and conductor for five hotel/casinos in Atlantic City during the 1980s. And, if that were not enough, he is a practicing psychologist.

Pedicin has been doing all these things, and doing them well, for decades. Three common threads have run through it all in those years: He wants to help people, he wants to help people live better lives, and he wants to play jazz on the saxophone.

Michael Pedicin, Jr., was born to reed royalty. His father, saxophonist and bandleader Michael, Sr., had a legendary ensemble that rocked the Jersey Shore nightspots for decades. He even had a hit record, “Shake a Hand,” along the way. It’s therefore no surprise that the jazz saxophone bug hit the younger Pedicin early on.

Intercollegiate Jazz Festival of 1967, adjudicated by iconic bandleader Stan Kenton. Kenton, in fact, asked a 22-year-old Pedicin to join his orchestra in Los Angeles. “I turned him down,” Pedicin said with a touch of sadness. “It’s a regret that I have.”

In the 1970s he became an integral part of the Gamble and Huff/Philadelphia International Records hit-making factory. The saxophone of Michael Pedicin, Jr., can be heard on dozens of those gigantic hits, including his superb, 1980 solo effort, the self-titled “Michael Pedicin, Jr.,” which spawned a hit single, “You,” two years later.

Around this time, Philadelphia musicians were heading to Atlantic City in droves because that’s where the work was. Pedicin was one of them. It didn’t take long for him to become a giant at the shore via contracting, and

His father took him to Atlantic City’s Club Harlem to show him the soulful saxophone artistry of Willis “Gator” Jackson. Later on, he studied formally at the Philadelphia Musical Academy, now The University of the Arts, where his teachers included iconic saxophonist Buddy Savitt, and famed educator Dennis Sandole. He listened closely to alto saxophonist Cannonball Adderley, and, like so many jazz musicians back in the day, fell under the spell of one of the most innovative musicians in the history of jazz, saxophonist John Coltrane.

As a youngster, Pedicin received acclaim when competing on what was called the “intercollegiate jazz” circuit. I know this first hand because I was part of a jazz trio that placed second to Pedicin at the Villanova

at various times, conducting for all five Atlantic City Boardwalk casinos.

“The first couple of years in Atlantic City were easy,” he recalled. “All the hotels wanted me and knew what I needed, though it was a battle every year to agree on a contract. Eventually, what started to happen was that some musicians in town were going in without demanding union scale, so people like me weren’t as needed as much anymore. But I don’t have any anger about it. It’s just the way it is.”

Further, Pedicin remembers that, over time, the powers that be at the hotel/casinos became more interested in marketing than music, which was something that he just didn’t want to be a part of.

Still, he has fond memories of that astoundingly busy time.

“The best experiences were with Sinatra,” he said. “I got called to play with the orchestra and I was the only local guy invited, which made me proud, and I loved working with Tony Bennett. I was the contractor for his orchestras whenever he came to town. The third great experience was with Johnny Mathis. I conducted his orchestra in a lot of locations, and for all his dates in Atlantic City for 25 years.”

Given all of his frantic activity –and remember, he had been playing professionally since he was 15 – it’s almost impossible to believe that Pedicin was also in and out of medical school.

“I always had the other desire of wanting to be a doctor,” he said. But every time he was in the midst of his medical studies at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, music beckoned. In 1974, after four weeks of study, he got the call to go on the road with trumpeter/bandleader Maynard Ferguson. He went back to medical school for a year and left again when David Bowie called.

“The third time I went back, I stayed for two years,” he explained. “But I was never comfortable that I had let all that music go. So I continued my musical life.

“When I was 46, I decided to get a PhD in psychology. The thing that took me away from medicine was that I loved being a doctor as much as I loved being a saxophonist. But the busier I got with my studies in medical school; the saxophone was in its case.

“As a psychologist, I could pick and choose to work as much as I wanted. I went back to school at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic medicine, and that’s where I got my PhD in psychology. I wanted to help people. I’ve lived a clean life since I started playing professionally at 15. No drugs, no alcohol. I wanted to help those with issues live a better life.”

Music education has always played an important part in his life as well. In 1988, with Robert Schilling, he founded Temple University’s jazz program and served as Temple’s first director of jazz studies. He’s also taught at Philadelphia’s University of the Arts, and for more than a decade, he’s been on the board of the South Jersey Jazz Society as co-artistic director with Joe Donofrio.

“I think that the Society’s president, Nick Regine, has done a wonderful job over the years,” Pedicin said. “I was on the board for eight or so years, and I brought in Joe Donofrio as artistic director. My goal and Joe’s goal is to bring some form of culture and art and jazz music to the South Jersey area. With Joe coming

in, we’re able to get some big people in for our annual festival that we weren’t able to get before. Second to that is education.

“Most of our events are packed. The library events that we do in Ocean City are so mobbed that you couldn’t get anyone else through the doors. The people around town come up to me and thank me. We’re going to do another series in November. I guess I have had this education thing on my mind all the time.”

Looking back today, he said that at one time he was a musician for 80 percent of his life and a psychologist

for 20 percent. “Now,” he explained, “I’m a psychologist for 80 and a musician for 20.”

But through it all there always was, and there always will be, the saxophone.

“There was always a piece of my dad in there in terms of satisfying people by playing a melody without getting in their face. There were short periods in my jazz career where I wanted to be that unsmiling ‘guy,’ but I grew out of it.”

Perhaps “growth” is the key word to use when trying to describe this unique man and unique artist.

Although he has been playing music – and healing – for more than six decades, after talking to him and being with him for a while, it’s easy to get the sense that he’s just getting started.

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.

Who’s in charge? Using an independent trustee

By Eric Reich

Last week, we discussed what to do in the event that you don’t fully trust your heirs to be responsible with an inheritance and how to ensure your wishes get carried out. We also discussed the challenges of deciding who would be in charge of distributing those assets and how trying to decide on the right person often leads to stopping your estate planning before it even gets started. We discussed that using a trust combined with discussing your wishes via a family meeting was a good first step in the process. Further, we discussed that a qualified estate planning attorney could help you put your wishes into legal documents to ensure that your wishes are fulfilled. One of the biggest stumbling blocks in this process is trying to determine who will be the person to manage

your affairs to carry out these wishes when you are gone. This person is known as the executor/executrix of your estate and/or your trustee in the case of administering a trust. Deciding who handles your affairs when you are gone can be the source of countless family squabbles. It might be perceived by those you didn’t choose that you loved the one you did choose more than the ones you didn’t choose. The reality is that the person you choose, you typically do so because you believe that they are the best person for the job. Sadly, you are probably the only one who sees it that way. The implications can extend far beyond administering your estate. Sometimes these disagreements can cause resentments that last forever. It is not hard to see why this decision stops most estate plans in their tracks.

Trust planning creates a new entity to document your wishes. In that same line of thinking, why not consider an unrelated third party to carry out those wishes? An independent trustee could solve many of your concerns about creating family strife by naming one kid over another to act as your trustee. An in -

dependent trustee acts as a part of your advisory team alongside your financial advisor, CPA and attorney.

Benefits of using an independent trust company include:

1. Experience

Unlike most trustees who have never done this before, a trust company does little else. Their expertise can be helpful regarding audits, regulatory oversight, recordkeeping, accounting, and tax law changes.

2. Continuity

Many people, instead of trying to decide which kid to name, will often pick a close friend in order to avoid a family conflict. The inherent problem in doing this, however, is that your close friends are likely to be a similar age as you and as such, may not be able to handle the management of your affairs when needed due to an advanced age and may be likely to only outlive you by a shorter time period. An independent trust company can manage your trust in perpetuity.

3. Expertise

Different types of trusts require different levels of expertise. An independent trust company can manage all sorts of trusts such as Special Needs Trusts, Dynasty Trusts, Marital Trusts, Charitable Trusts, Asset Protection Trusts, Irrevocable/Revocable Trusts, Total Return Trusts, Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILIT), Credit Shelter Trusts, and the list goes on.

The benefits of using an independent trust company start to become clear when you list out all of the benefits to them. To me, the biggest benefit is still protecting the family from future conflicts. Expect to pay

around 0.5% to manage a trust. To me, half of a percent is a small price to pay to not have to worry about family conflict, the eventual need to replace a trustee when they resign or pass, and for expertise that extends far beyond the capabilities of any individual person.

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

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

Meet the breed: the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

By Heidi Clayton

One of my favorite breeds to train and to recommend to people who are looking for a loving, sweet, and devoted dog is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. You will not find a sweeter or happier little dog. They make great family pets and are highly adaptable to most lifestyles.

Dogs resembling the Cavalier have been depicted in paintings that are dated from as early as the year 1440, which are no doubt the predecessors of today's dogs. They were often referred to as the “comforter spaniel” and were favored by royalty and nobility for their characteristics of providing warmth as a lap dog. The actual naming of the Cavalier came much later than they are depicted. The breed saw a surge in popularity during the reign of Queen Victoria, who had a Cavalier named Dash.

Breeders of that era started breeding comforter spaniels with much shorter faces than those pictured during the reign of King Charles. The Queen Victoria-era dogs are now called the English Toy Spaniel. In the 1920s an American named Roswell Eldridge attended the famed Crufts Dog Show and offered a 25-pound reward to any spaniel breeder who could breed a dog that resembled those that were favored by King Charles. By 1928, a dog named “Ann's Son” won the prize. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed club was formed in England where the standard remains nearly the same today. The name Cavalier King Charles is certainly a nod to the king who in some reports preferred spending more time with his dogs than ruling. The use of the word cavalier is a nod to his supporters during the English Civil Wars.

Cavaliers came to America in 1952 and became a recognized AKC breed in 1996. The American King Charles Cavalier Club is going to great lengths to preserve these joyful little dogs and improve their health issues. They have a devoted web page on which reputable breeders who actively health test their breeding stock are listed. It is true that Cavaliers were

known for having heart issues, but with the advent of color EKGs for dogs, great strides have been made to improve their hearts with responsible breeders getting the necessary testing done before breeding their dogs. Cavaliers should also be tested for luxating patellas, eye disorders, and hip dysplasia.

Cavaliers come in only four colors: Blenheim, which is a chestnut color on white background; tricolor, which is black with tan markings on a white background; black and tan; and the most recognizable color is ruby. There are no other colors, such as merle or spotted, in the cavalier. If you see someone advertising any other color, it is not a purebred Cavalier.

What I love most about the Cav-

aliers are their temperaments. They are happy-go-lucky little dogs who adapt easily to changes in lifestyle and are at their happiest when merely sitting with their owners. They are very biddable dogs that are easy to train and live with. Let me also be clear that I am talking about the purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, not the mixed breeds that people refer to as the cav-a-poo. This mix is not one I recommend to anyone at all. I have not met one that is as sound in mind and body as the original Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These are lovely little dogs that I fully endorse as becoming your next family pet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email 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

Make

APS

7 exciting ways to celebrate Easter weekend

By Julia Train

Easter is just around the corner, and Atlantic and Cape May Counties are bustling with a myriad of activities to enjoy during this festive weekend. From egg hunts to brunches, there's something for everyone. Here are eight top picks for making the most of this holiday weekend:

1. Seashore Lines Easter Bunny Express

Hop aboard the Seashore Lines’ Easter Bunny Express before March 30! Spend quality time with the Easter Bunny, enjoy live music, and every child receives a special

gift. Visit seashorelines.org for more details.

2. Easter Bunny and Great Egg Hunt in Ocean City

On Saturday, March 30, children up to age 7 can join the Great Egg Hunt on Ocean City’s Boardwalk. Participating stores will hide eggs filled with treats and toys, with the event running from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Easter Bunny will also be at Mark Soifer Park from 9 a.m. to noon for photos.

3. Dueling Pianos with Philly Keys

Philly Keys returns with their popular dueling piano show in front of the Ocean City Music Pier on March 31, from noon to 2 p.m. Children dressed in their Easter attire can meet the Easter Bunny for a photo op in an Ocean City lifeguard boat.

4. An Easter EggstravaganZOO

Transforming into an Easter wonderland from March 29 to April 7, the

Cape May County Park and Zoo offers daily activities starting at 10 a.m. Highlights include Easter Bunny I Spy, Easter Scavenger Hunt, HOPstacle Course, and special appearances by princess characters.

5. DiDonato Family Fun Center’s Easter EGGspress

Saturday, March 30 is the final day to experience DiDonato’s Easter EGGspress, featuring a train ride through Spring Village, an egg hunt, meeting the Easter Bunny, and navigating the Spring Hedge maze for family fun.

6. Easter Sunday Brunch

Indulge in a delightful Easter Sunday brunch with the Easter Bunny at various locations:

- Atlantic City Country Club offers brunch buffet seating with prices starting at $55+ for adults and special treats for kids.

- Harbor Pines presents a lavish spread from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with prices at $53 for adults and complimentary dining for kids under 2. Reservations required.

- Don't miss the dinner buffet at Atlantic City Country Club from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., where tickets are $65+ for adults and include complimentary dining for kids under 3.

7. Smithville’s Easter Parade

Join Smithville’s Easter parade starting at 1 p.m. at The Smithville Inn. Dress in your Easter best and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

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

Easter Egg Hunt

P T W N I S W O E D P R

T E N N O B K C C L U V

Z N X A R E T C N D Y E

R N Y E J G K G I E E A

E H G B L I X S P H P I

T O L Y E S X Q W E C B

T P H L M W S L E O S J

U B Q L A U N P T D B G

B Q O E R U X T A U P M

T K T J A W O O L R O E

U O P E C N D P O Z Z D

N B B A T T P G C E O C

A W U A B A Q X O C B A

E P I N S X R D H B U R

P L D F N K B O C D F R

D Q Y L H Y E P C Z L O

T U N O C O C T P E U T

G F F W G B M S D X D O

G D W E U M D D D W C T

J P Q R J V W S M U Z B

JELLYBEAN PEEP

CHOCOLATE BASKET

PEANUTBUTTER

CARAMEL

COTTONTAIL DYE

BUNNY

FLOWER COCONUT CHICKS

DECORATE CARROT BONNET

609-645-0500

SUDOKU

Solution on page 70

THEME: COLLEGE BASKETBALL

ACROSS

1. Matt Damon/Ben Affleck 1999 movie

6. *Top seed

9. *Player's target

13. Earth Day month

14. State V.I.P.

15. ____ firma

16. Rationalistic theology

17. Former name of Tokyo

18. Formed a curve

19. *One-____-____ rule

21. *Last year's NCAA men's tournament winner

23. Lenon's wife

24. E-mail command

25. Bug spray brand

28. "By ____ of" or "by means of"

30. Like certain floss

35. Life stories, for short

37. Gulf War missile

39. Dough

40. Tiny purse or case

41. Mandarin's headquarters

43. Like an omelette

44. Jaunty rhythms

46. Derived from capable

47. Party in Maui

48. Trouser measurement

50. L in SNL

52. *Encouragement from coach

53. Foretell

55. Lt.'s subordinate

57. *J in NJCAA

60. *Gambling scheme

64. Dick Van Dyke's "____ ____ a Happy Face"

65. Freudian topic

67. Kind of ray

68. Silly

69. Mudbath site

70. Artemis' companion

71. Type of salmon

72. College entrance exam

73. Instagram videos

DOWN

1. Bit of baby talk

2. Precedes sesame

3. Power system

4. Botch

5. Marcona nut

6. Curved molding

7. Endorsement

8. Call forth

9. Not his

10. Aquarium show star

11. Mine deposits

12. Water lily leaf

15. One behind the other

20. *Like crowd of fans?

22. "____ the crowd goes wild!"

24. Misstep

25. Obelus, pl.

26. Oddball's attempt? (2 words)

27. *Each player gets 5 before disqualification

29. *Org.

31. Witty Coward

32. Dress up or deck out (2 words)

33. Blue-Green scum

34. *Easiest shot?

36. Location

38. Hero shop

42. Never say what?

45. Abduction of the ____ Women, Roman myth

49. Farm call

51. Bewitch

54. One step to success?

56. Close call

57. Elliot Page's 2007 role

58. Home of Jazz

59. Unacceptable, to a baby

60. Gravy holder

61. ACL location

62. Short for "and elsewhere"

63. Small amounts

64. Selfie, e.g.

66. *Qualifying ____, eligibility criterion

See Solution on Page 70

SHORE PRO MARKETPLACE

Simple improvements to upgrade curb appeal

Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

Don’t overlook the first impression your home makes. Upgrades like replacing hardware, planting flower beds, and changing your mailbox will wow your neighbors and potential buyers.

There is truth in the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression,” and the same philosophy applies to your home. Whether you are in the market to sell your home or you are just looking for a spring refresh, curb appeal can go a long way toward increasing your home’s overall appeal.

Refresh the Front Door

If you haven’t paid much attention to your front door lately, consider a fresh coat of paint. And don’t be afraid of a bright pop of color. Choose red, or a turquoise blue, or perhaps a sunny yellow, to make your front entrance the focal point of your home.

Go Green

Adding plants and flowers can be an easy way to add a pop of color to the exterior of your home. Consider a variety of flowers in coordinating or contrasting colors, or pick up ready-made arrangements for a quick fix.

Update Hardware

Modern hardware - whether on your

front door, garage, or mailbox - can help bring your home into the 21st century.

Upgrade House Numbers

Choose numbers in a modern font with a finish that matches your other exterior hardware (light fixtures, door knocker, etc.) keeping size in mind.

Out with the Old

Replacing or painting your old, wornout mailbox can make a tremendous difference in your home’s curb appeal. Also, pay close attention to the appearance of your foundation, and consider adding some flowers.

Deep Clean

Don't underestimate the importance of pressure washing your home’s siding, pathways, and decking. Windows and gutters should also be well maintained.

The transition into spring is the perfect time to tackle tasks throughout your home and prepare your home for listing on the market. Take care of these details now so you can get top dollar this spring.

Wishing everyone a blessed Easter! Get outside and enjoy everything our Shore Local community has to offer as we welcome the beautiful springtime!

For real estate information and advice, contact Elisa Jo Eagan, the “Real Estate Godmother,” at 609-703-0432. Learn more at www.TheRealEstateGodmother.com. For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan "The Real Estate Godmother" (609)703-0432 and Remember..."There's No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!"