SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | November 7, 2024 by Mike Kurov

Cozy Sectionals

Divine Dinettes

Blissful

Honoring veterans and the value of our voice

From the Editor

As I write this on the eve of Election Day, I am sitting in a café in Milan. I’ve sent in my mail-in ballot and now await the results from afar.

This is my first time traveling outside the United States, aside from the Bahamas. It’s fascinating to immerse myself in a different culture, observing the customs and nuances of a new place. What’s more, when we turned on the hotel TV, most of the international news centered on the U.S. presidential election. All eyes are on America.

Being an American is a privilege. Our nation is "the land of the free because of the brave." Regardless of the election outcome, it’s reassuring

to know that we each have a voice in choosing our leaders and that our government is grounded in democracy. While there’s always room for growth, there is much to appreciate—and our veterans are at the top of that list.

On Tuesday, Nov. 11, we honor Veterans Day, a time to recognize those who have served and sacrificed for our freedom.

Freedom, of course, is never free. Many veterans and their families have faced immense hardships; some have made the ultimate sacrifice. Many continue to struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury, and other lasting effects of their service. The rates of depression and suicide among veterans are staggering. This Veterans Day and every day, let’s take a moment to thank a veteran for their service and sacrifice. Wherever I go, I am proud to say I’m an American. May God bless America and all our veterans.

Peace & Love, Cindy

Trump elected president; Republicans win Atlantic County races

By Julia Train

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, Americans cast their ballot for president, local board of education members, senator and representatives. The country chose Republican Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States, although Democrat Kamala Harris won New Jersey and secured the state’s 14 electoral votes.

The result called by the Associated Press, as of this writing, was 277 electoral votes for former President Trump and 224 for Vice President Harris.

New Jersey elected its first Korean-American U.S. senator, Democrat Andy Kim, replacing Democrat Bob Menendez, who resigned in 2024 following his conviction on 16 counts in a political corruption case. Incumbent Republican and former Democrat Jeff Van Drew was elect-

ed U.S. representative for District 2, which contains Atlantic and Cape May counties.

Three Republicans were victorious in Atlantic County Commissioner races. Michael Ruffu now holds the title of Atlantic County commissioner-at-large; Maureen Kern is District 2’s county commissioner, and James Bertino is District 5’s commissioner.

The 2024 presidential election was an intense one, taking place against the backdrop of heightened political polarization and a deeply divided electorate. The race centered around key issues such as the economy, healthcare, national security, climate change and immigration.

Vice President Kamala Harris replaced President Joe Biden on the ballot when he made the decision to step away from the race in August. She chose as her running mate Tim Walz, Minnesota’s 41st governor, a former educator and retired United States Army non-commissioned officer.

Harris, who made history as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian American vice president, planned to focus on advancing economic recovery, expanding healthcare, tackling climate change, defending abortion rights and pro -

Celebrating Life at The Southern NJ Shore

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

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Contributors – Charles Eberson, Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Fred Miller, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Rachael Guebara, Elisa Jo Eagan, David Setley, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Whitney Ullman, Bill Quain, Chuck Darrow, Bruce Klauber, Christina Martin, Julia Train, Ursula Duffy, John Loreaux, Marjorie Preston, Tynan Hand Cover photo by Rob Callaghan.

moting social justice initiatives.

Trump was once again the party’s candidate, despite facing various legal challenges, including multiple indictments. His vice president-elect is JD Vance, a Marine veteran who serves as the junior United States senator from Ohio since 2023.

Trump and Harris made their opposite visions of America’s direction clear, reflecting the current political polarization in the country and the sharp divide in public opinion on major issues.

Trump, characterized by his “America first” stance, emphasized tough immigration policies, reducing government regulations and tax cuts, all while focusing on restoring a sense of American exceptionalism. He also advocated for less intervention in foreign affairs and prioritizing domestic interests.

In her campaign Harris represented a progressive vision, with policies aimed at expanding healthcare access, addressing systemic inequality, combating climate change, and promoting international diplomacy. Her approach is rooted in the belief that government has a large role in fostering a fair and more just society. She also leaned heavily into social issues such as racial justice and economic equality.

Harris’ campaign emphasized expanding on the policies of the Biden administration, such as infrastructure investments and climate action, while contrasting her approach to Trump’s populism, especially in regard to issues like the economy, foreign policy and social values.

A central point of contention in the election was the ongoing debate over abortion rights, as well as efforts to protect voting rights and ensure the integrity of the democratic process.

For his supporters, Trump’s victory is a step in the right direction for the economy and border control, two important issues for Republicans during the election. However, the left is nervous about what the win will mean for women, immigrants and LGBTQIA+ citizens.

Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain

GOP asks action on ACUA landfill odors, considers privatization of solid waste management

By Stephanie Loder

Area Republican politicians and some Absecon residents say something stinks about the 120-acre Atlantic County Municipal Utilities Authority (ACUA) landfill in Egg Harbor Township, and they want to see a change.

GOP officials – and a few residents of a The Gathering at Bel Aire Lakes retirement community in Absecon that was built in 2006 next to the ACUA landfill – voiced concerns last week outside the environmental park offices on Delilah Road with state Sen. Vince Polistina, R-Atlantic. They said more needs to be done to stop the garbage odors drifting from the landfill, which began receiving solid waste in 1992.

Polistina suggested that Atlantic County eliminate the ACUA and instead privatize solid waste management.

Atlantic County democrats denounced Polistina’s privatization idea and called the press conference a political stunt.

Pleasantville councilwoman Joanne Famularo, a Democratic Atlantic County commissioner candidate, last week disagreed that privatization of solid waste management was the answer.

Famularo challenged incumbent Republican candidate Maureen Kern for the 2nd District Atlantic County commissioner seat in Tuesday’s election.

Kern attended the press conference at the environmental park last week along with Drew Parker, Richard Dase, John Risley and June Byrnes, and Assemblywoman Claire Swift, R-Atlantic.

Landfill odor complaints decreased in 2024, said ACUA President Matt J. DeNafo, who took over after longtime President Rick Dovey retired July 1 after 33 years of service.

Last year, the ACUA received 129 complaints in December, he said Tuesday.

As of September, there were just 15 complaints, he said.

“Last year was a challenge for all landfills trying to deal with wet weather managing and managing landfill smells because it decomposes in a larger volume,” DeNafo said. “We had a lot of complaints (last year).”

Odor complaints increase when the weather gets colder, DeNafo said.

DeNafo said “more than $1 million in upgrades to eliminate odors” threatening nearby residents have been put in place.

Beginning Nov. 1, landfill gas collection wells have been installed, according to the ACUA website.

The drill rig is currently undergoing repairs, but the remaining wells are expected to be installed by the end of next week. The expanded gas collection pipeline is 100% installed, and the new header system has been activated, according to the website.

The ACUA also established an online complaint form on it’s website.

DeNafo said he uses his cell phone to handle a complaint of an odor and he also investigates it.

“We set up our own hotline and online form so that if you had an odor complaint, then that went to my cell phone and landfill manager’s cell phone and we all responded to those,” DeNafo said.

“I responded to a complaint on New Year’s Day at 8 p.m.,” he said. “When people have the information, it seems to help them be more rational.”

DeNafo said the landfill follows state odor standards.

The ACUA also promotes environmental stewardship through reduc-

ing emissions with a cleaner fleet, investing in resiliency measures and connecting with the community to give tours of the landfill during Earth Day, DeNafo said.

The landfill, however, isn’t without problems.

Earlier this year, a group of Absecon homeowners contracted an environmental law firm and filed a civil action in the U.S. District Court against the ACUA on behalf of Bel Aire Lakes Homeowners Association Inc. and 65 residents of the Absecon retirement community.

The action alleges the ACUA’s landfill in Egg Harbor Township emits hazardous levels of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) which is well above the healthbased standard of 30 parts per billion. They also allege the facility’s nighttime operations are in violation of state laws.

The ACUA solid waste landfill is a disposal site for trash from Atlantic County homes and businesses.

The landfill is expected to contain approximately 9.9 million tons of garbage by closing, according to the ACUA website.

The anticipated closing date for the landfill is 2029.

DeNafo said the ACUA is already working on ways to either extend the life of the landfill or find an alternate way to dispose of Atlantic County’s trash.

Stephanie is a freelance writer with 40 years experience covering NJ news for The Asbury Park Press, The Courier Post, The Catholic Star Herald and The Press of AC. Email her at stephanieloder59@hotmail.com

Community observers contribute to America’s largest volunteer weather network

By Meteorologist Joe Martucci

“Be a hero, report your zeros.”

That’s the motto Dave Robinson, the New Jersey state climatologist, is telling his over 200 volunteer weather observers across the Garden State. It’s important to report, not just when and where it’s raining, but where it hasn’t rained in this dry spell.

October was the driest month in the state’s history, dating back to 1895 (more on that later in this column). Drought has spread throughout the state.

Robinson helped make that drought determination weekly, in part thanks to the volunteer Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS), which he oversees.

“It’s very important to know where it hasn’t rained… When the media con -

tacts me, hopefully a couple of weeks from now, it’s not going to be, ‘how’s the drought?’ It’s going to be, ‘Is the drought over?’” Robinson said.

Volunteer efforts go a long way toward telling us when this drought will end. With snow season around the corner, CoCoRaHS also helps meteorologists like me verify forecasts and who saw the most snow.

To be a CoCoRaHS observer, all you need is an open space to put a rain gauge, an internet connection to report observations and an interest in weather. They have an app, too.

Taking observations usually takes less than two minutes a day. When there’s no rain, you just enter zero. When there’s rain, you simply report what’s in the gauge. When snow is coming, you can put a whiteboard in an open space and measure what has fallen.

If you’re on vacation or can’t make it out to the gauge on a given day, no problem. Even if this area is your second home, that’s fine, too. You can input a multi-day entry when you’re back. All they ask is that observations are taken at the same time each day.

There’s a $35 charge to cover the cost of the high-capacity, 4-inch-wide rain gauge, but other than that, it’s free.

There are official training webinars and animations for you to watch and read. I may be biased as a meteorologist, but the training is pretty straightforward, and short. You’ll learn and understand the process quickly.

You can view your reports as well as your neighbors’ anytime on the CoCoRaHS website. A fresh update to their map pages now makes it interactive. You can select dates, map locations and more with a scroll or a few clicks.

Despite the population of Atlantic and Cape May counties being ranked 15 and 20 out of New Jersey’s 21 counties, according to the United States Census Bureau, the density of CoCoRaHS observers is near the top.

There are 29 active observers in Atlantic County and 23 in Cape May County, according to CoCoRaHS data on Nov. 1. Still, more are always welcome. Northfield, Pleasantville, Longport, Margate and Atlantic City are a few towns where there are no regular observers.

month on my YouTube channel www. youtube.com/joemartwx.

Robinson said that the statewide average was either 0.01 inches or 0.02 inches (unknown as to which at the time of writing). It doesn’t matter.

The previous record was 0.25 inches in 1963, also in October. We crushed the record. That’s less than the average precipitation in Death Valley National Park or Palm Springs in California.

Woodbine, Cape May County, tied for the most rain in the state in October. There, they picked up 0.10 inches. That means drought expanded over the whole state. For the first time since 2012, all of New Jersey was classified in drought by the United States Drought Monitor as of Oct. 31.

CoCoRaHS was founded in Colorado in 1998 by Nolan Doesken. The previous year, Fort Collins, Col., experienced a major flood. Since rainfall observations are generally only taken at airports and a few other sites inbetween, Doesken needed a more localized view of rainfall totals. He asked for measurements from private citizens and CoCoRaHS was born. CoCoRaHS expanded to New Jersey in February 2008 and is now in Canada as well as the Bahamas.

Your observations can make the record books, literally. In 2011, New Jersey’s official record for most annual precipitation was from a volunteer CoCoRaHS observer.

So, if you’re looking for a cheap hobby where you don’t have to leave your property, CoCoRaHS can be the one. Visit www.cocorahs.org if you’re interested in signing up. You can also reach out to me if you need my help.

The driest month on record

Since the Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist started compiling statewide weather records in 1895, there have been over 1,500 months. None have been as dry as October 2024. Last month holds the all-time record for the driest month in recorded history, Robinson told me in our Monthly Weather Roundup, which you can watch at the beginning of each

Stages of drought include: D0 Abnormally Dry D1 Moderate Drought D2 Severe Drought D3 Extreme Drought D4 Exceptional Drought Severe drought (D2), the second of four stages of drought, is now the case for Atlantic and Cape May counties. It’s New Jersey’s widest extent of severe drought since 2002. From March 2002 to January 2003, mandatory water restrictions went into effect.

There is one small piece of “good” news. If there were ever a good time for no precipitation and drought, it’s mid to late-fall. Water use is way down and nor’easter season is coming. We have until March and April, when the growing season begins, to correct this.

Robinson noted in our weather roundup that any mandatory water restrictions will be weeks away, if it happens.

It’s possible that the state keeps just the voluntary restrictions in effect through the winter and waits to see how much precipitation we receive. Either way in terms of weather, this is a historic moment period in New Jersey.

Joe earned his Meteorology Degree from Rutgers University. He is approved by the American Meteorological Society as a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist and Certified Digital Meteorologist, the only one in the state with both. He's won 10 New Jersey Press Association Awards. You can find him on social media @joemartwx

NJDEP investigating suspected tampering of well water samples in Upper Township

By Julia Train

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) is currently investigating a case of suspected tampering with water testing samples that indicated alarmingly high levels of mercury in private wells in Upper Township.

A meeting in Upper Township on Monday, Oct. 28 allowed residents to voice their concerns directly to DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette, who attended via Zoom. Many expressed their frustration and anxiety over the situation. Mayor Jay Newman was in attendance as well and expressed his disbelief, saying he was "flabbergasted.”

This investigation was triggered when a resident reported elevated mercury levels in a private well on Sept. 9.

The resident, who was moving from the city to her boyfriend’s home in Beesley’s Point, had concerns about drinking untreated water. In August, the boyfriend decided to have the water tested so she’d feel

more confident about drinking it, but the test came back positive for mercury, a metallic substance that can lead to serious health effects.

He then applied for assistance from the state through the DEP and was able to resolve the issue.

This led the Cape May County Health Department to test additional wells in the area and discover that approximately a dozen wells also showed dangerously high mercury levels.

Some samples reportedly indicated mercury concentrations as high as 14,000 parts per billion (PPB), far exceeding the safe limit of 2 PPB.

However, when the DEP conducted its independent testing, the results differed dramatically. The department’s preliminary findings revealed that many of these same wells either had non-detectable levels of mercury or results well below the safety threshold.

At the Oct. 28 meeting, LaTourette said that it appears someone with access to the samples deliberately manipulated them after they

were collected, leading to false high readings.

He called the actions “shameful," while other officials said it was a waste of government resources.

The DEP hasn’t publicly named the laboratory responsible for the initial high readings, but township officials confirmed it was Cape Environmental Laboratory, a certified facility.

According to 6abc Action News, the lab’s owner is cooperating with the DEP and is also seeking answers about how such high results could have occurred.

The DEP is actively retesting the affected wells to ensure the safety

of the water supply. Until the situation is resolved, the state has committed to covering relocation costs for residents relying on the private wells. For those who do not relocate, the DEP will provide bottled water to ensure they have safe drinking options.

LaTourette stated that the investigation will explore not only the tampering itself but also the motivations behind it.

As of Tuesday, there hasn’t been any indication that a suspect has been identified.

The case has been referred to the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General for further examination, with potential civil, regulatory and criminal penalties for those found responsible.

The DEP will finalize its preliminary results showing safe mercury levels within three weeks, with final findings shared with the public once available.

Residents are encouraged to reach out to the DEP for assistance and to apply for help from the state's Spill Fund for relocation or other needs related to the contamination.

ancer Support Community New Jersey (CSCNJ) is thrilled to announce that the highly anticipated annual brunch, to benefit the Cancer Support Community NJ, is back again for the 10th year running. It will take place on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Linwood Country Club.

This year’s Gilda’s Champions, Harry and Margie Hurley and family, will be honored for their dedication and philanthropy with CSCNJ. Both personally, and through the Hurley in the Morning Charity Foundation, Harry and Margie, along with their family have given generously over the past decade. Their contributions have helped countless individuals across New Jersey who have been impacted by a cancer diagnosis.

Guests of the brunch will enjoy a gourmet menu, Bloody Mary bar and butler-passed mimosas. Tickets cost $125 for a single ticket, $230

for two and $1100 for a table of 10. All proceeds go directly to the free support programs at CSCNJ for men, women, teens and children impacted by all forms of cancer, at any stage of their cancer journey.

This year’s event will also bring back the always popular restaurant raffle. Giving guests a chance to win a year’s worth of fine dining with gift cards to 12 of the area’s most exquisite restaurants.

Space is limited to the first 250 RSVPs. To purchase tickets, please contact Cancer Support Community New Jersey at (609) 926-2699 or purchase online at www.cscnj.org.

Veterans Day Ceremonies

Monday, Nov. 11

Atlantic City

▶Saturday, Nov. 9, 11 a.m.

Jackson Avenue & the Boardwalk

At the site of the Saracini-O’Neill 9/11 Memorial, this year’s ceremony honors Marine Corps Veteran Marco Polo Smigliani.

Cape May Court House

▶1 p.m.

Gerald M. Thornton Veterans’ Cemetery 129 Crest Haven Rd.

Join the Cape May County Board of Commissioners for their annual Veterans Day Ceremony. The program will include speeches and remarks from Commissioner Director Leonard Desiderio, Commissioner Bobby Barr, Veterans’ Services Director, Captain William D. Judge, USCG, and live music by the John Walter Cape Community Band. Light food and refreshments will be served.

Egg Harbor City

▶6:30 p.m.

American Legion Hall 527 Philadelphia Ave.

Hosted by American Legion Post #158 & Auxiliary Unit, Richard McAnney, VFW Post #5341, and the City of Egg Harbor. The ceremony will include performances by the Ceder Creek High School Marching Band under the direction of Valerie Adams. This event will be held outdoors. Please bring your own chair. Meet at the American Legion Post afterwards for an Open House and refreshments.

Galloway

▶11 a.m.

Galloway Senior Center 621 W. White Horse Pike

Join Galloway Township Community Services for a special ceremony honoring our local veterans.

Longport

▶11 a.m.

Krechmer Pavilion 28th & Ventnor Ave.

The Boro of Longport honors local veterans in a ceremony held this Monday, Nov. 11., sponsored by the John A. Kuzmann Memorial American Legion Post 469.

Ocean City ▶11 a.m.

Ocean City Tabernacle 550 Wesley Ave.

Join the City of Ocean City in honoring our local veterans. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation. com.

Somers Point ▶12:30 p.m.

1 Medical Center Way

Shore Medical Center will honor military veterans on the front lawn of the hospital along Bay Ave. this Monday. The program will include the Pledge of Allegiance, led by retired U.S. Army veteran Guy Schlachter, Michael Smith on bagpipes, and Dr. Alexandria Buford, who serves in the Air Force Reserves as a physician at McGuire Air Force Base.

Upper Township

▶10 a.m.

Sergeant William Godfrey Memorial Park 1731 Route 9, Seaville

Join Upper Township for their annual Veterans Day Service, held just off of Route 9 at Osprey Dr.

All ceremonies scheduled for Monday, November 11 except where noted

Flemings' Pumpkin Run celebrates 27 years

By Holly Martin

Flemings' Annual Pumpkin Run once again drew car enthusiasts, gearheads and festival-goers from across the region. Held on Nov. 2 at Flemings Auto Parts in Egg Harbor Township, this year's event was packed with attractions. Live music filled the air while steam engines whistled by, and the sawmill worked on wood for the new "Pumpkin Run 2024" branding. This year’s highlights included a Toys for Tots collection, WOND Radio broadcasts, food trucks, a flea market, and endless displays of classic and unique cars.

Billed as one of the biggest car shows on the East

Coast, the Pumpkin Run has grown remarkably over the years. “I think the first car show had maybe 25 cars,” said Public Relations Director Rick Broschard. “It was just a ring of cars, and every year it grew a little more.” Today, the show draws vehicles from

across the country, from race cars to muscle cars, and hot rods to vintage trucks.

An extensive team of dedicated volunteers makes the Pumpkin Run possible, spending days raking leaves, cleaning the grounds, and organizing the vast array of collectibles. Walking through the property is like stepping back in time. Fleming’s features a

Since the 1990s, Flemings has hosted this one-of-a-kind car, antique engine and tractor show. It all began when founder Harry Fleming and his friend Ralph Broschard returned from a Pennsylvania car show with a simple idea: “We can do that!”

If you missed this year's event, be sure to mark your calendar for the 28th Annual Pumpkin Run next No -

restored old diner with gleaming chrome, vintage gas stations, and an array of antique signage, including a massive “James Salt Water Taffy” barrel and the iconic “White House Subs” Atlantic City sign.

Beyond the cars, the Pumpkin Run offers unique sights at every turn. Visitors can browse flea market stalls for rare car parts, or wander through Fleming’s museums, which are filled with memorabilia, photos, and pieces from Atlantic City Speedway.

vember. For more information, visit flemingspumpkinrun.com or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/ flemingspumpkinrun.

Holly Martin has been working in media since 2012. She has worked as a photographer and videographer throughout her high school and college career. Holly is a producer for WOND radio as well as fill in DJ for 103.7 WMGM Rocks. She loves being a concert photographer and working as event staff. She has worked as a reporter for Temple University’s Philadelphia Neighborhoods and submitted Editorials to the Philadelphia Inquirer. She has done multiple multimedia articles for Temple as well as Shore Local Newsmagazine. Her portfolio website is hollyamartin.com 3120

“There’s something for everyone here,” Broschard added. “You’re never going to go to another car show with this atmosphere. To me, it’s a festival.” A crowd favorite was the massive “pumpkin chunkin” event, launching pumpkins high into the air—a spectacle you have to see to believe.

Photos by Benjamin Howard

Events and Happenings

Multiday Events

‘The Night Side, A Ghost Story’

▶Friday, Nov. 8; and Saturday, Nov. 9

7 p.m.

Gateway Playhouse, 739 Bay Ave., Somers Point

Join Gateway Playhouse for this riveting psychological thriller. Produced by A Midsummer Night Players, Sherlock Holmes obsesses over the mysterious death of Edgar Allan Poe. Purchase tickets online at www.gatewaybythebay.org.

Heritage Surf Pop-Up at Reed’s Farm

▶Friday, Nov. 8-Sunday, Nov. 10

5075 Spruce Ave., Egg Harbor Township

Join Heritage Surf for a special pop-up event this weekend. Enjoy discounted retail merchandise along with local art from John Baker and Knee Patches all weekend along with raffles, exclusive deals, wine tastings and live piano music on Saturday, and music from CJ Sooy and craft beer from The Seed on Sunday. The event runs 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Saturday, and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday. Christmas Fantasy with Lights at Storybook Land

▶Saturday, Nov. 16; and Sunday, Nov. 17

6415 E. Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township

A South Jersey spectacle returns. Santa is ready to wave his magic wand and light up Storybook Land for the holiday season. The park will be open 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16; and 2-8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17. Tickets will not be sold at the gate. Purchase online at www.storybookland.com.

Thursday, November 7

Sip & Shop

▶5-9 p.m.

Seaview Golf Club, 401 S. New York Road, Galloway

Jumpstart your holiday shopping and spend the night out with over 40 local vendors under one roof. Enter to win one of four giveaways, support local nonprofits and enjoy fantastic food and drinks all night. Tickets are $5 in advance and $10 at the door. Hosted by Motivated Mommies. Purchase advance tickets at www.motivatedmommiesnj.com/sip-shop.

Friday, November 8

Enlightened Farm Market

▶2-6 p.m.

572 S. Odessa Ave., Egg Harbor City

Join Enlightened Farms for their weekly markets now through Nov. 22. Check out their fresh harvest, hand-crafted products, florals and more. Experience the farm firsthand through a tour, you-pick herbs and local vendor highlights. Movie at the Library

▶2-4 p.m.

Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave.

Join Longport Library for a screening of “Fly Me to the Moon.” Sparks fly between a marketing executive and a NASA official as he prepares for the Apollo 11 moon landing. Call 609-4877403 to register or learn more.

Toast Pink Presents: Diamonds are Forever ▶6-11 p.m.

The Flanders Hotel, 719 E. 11th St., Ocean City

Save the date for Toast Pink’s annual fundraising gala featuring gourmet dining, auctions and dancing to The Exceptions. Toast Pink is a 501c3 charitable organization with a mission to financially assist cancer patients and their families in our local communities. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased online at www.toastpink. org.

Fall Concert Series at Ocean City Library

▶6:30 p.m.

Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.

Join OCFPL for their free weekly concert series. This week, enjoy a live performance by the Bittersweet Duo. Concerts will be held in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. Use the entrance closest to 17th Street. For more information, visit www.oceancitylibrary.org or call 609-399-2434.

So Good: The Neil Diamond Experience

▶7:30 p.m.

Stockton Performing Arts Center, 101 Vera King Farris Dr., Galloway

This show is unlike any tribute you have ever seen or heard before. Robert Neary, star of Broadway, television and motion pictures, creates a one-ofa-kind production, talking about the songs and the stories behind them. Purchase tickets at the Stockton PAC box office or online at www.stockton. edu/pac.

Saturday, November 9

EHT Holiday Craft Show

▶9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Egg Harbor Township Community Center, 5045 English Creek Ave.

Join EHT Recreation for their 14th Annual Holiday Craft Show, with 90+ vendors in attendance selling a diverse assortment of jewelry, crafts, home décor and much more. You are sure to find a special holiday gift for everyone on your list. Admission is free. Photography Course: Scenic Beauty of the Shore

▶10 a.m.-Noon

Somers Point Senior Center, 22 N. Ambler Road

The Somers Point Arts Commission is offering a three-session photography course to capture the “Scenic Beauty of the Shore.” Dates will be Saturdays, Nov. 9, 16 and 30. Cost is $30 per person for all three sessions. Anyone 18 and over is welcome to register regardless of skill level. Bring only cameras that have manual controls; no cell phone cameras. You will learn incredible photo taking techniques from an experienced professional, with topics ranging from planning to capturing and editing that perfect seashore photo. Pre-registration and payment required by visiting http://somersptarts.weebly.com.

Meggan’s Fight is Our Fight: Making Moves Against Cancer

▶4-8 p.m.

Brigantine Elks Lodge, 400 W. Shore Drive

You’re invited to Join the Fight and Make Moves Against Cancer. The Brigantine Elks is hosting an event in support of lifelong Brigantine resident Meggan and her battle with colon cancer. The evening will be filled with music by Melissa Marshall, food, raffles and a cash bar, with proceeds benefiting Meggan and her family. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For more information, contact Dena at 609-377-0688 or Linda at 609412-7020.

Bay Atlantic Symphony: Veterans Day Concert

▶7:30 p.m.

Stockton Performing Arts Center, 101 Vera King Farris Drive, Galloway

This Free Veterans Day concert will feature marches and patriotic tunes that will have you tapping your toes to the beat. The concert is free to attend, but advance reservation tickets are required to attend. Reserve your seat by visiting the Stockton PAC box office or go to www.stockton.edu/ pac.

Sunday, November 10

Jazz Concert Series at Ocean City Library

▶2 p.m.

Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.

Join OCFPL for their free weekly concert series as Michael Pedicin presents “The Art of the Trio.” This week, enjoy a performance by the Richman/ Parrish/Monaghan Trio. Concerts will be held in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. Use the entrance closest to 17th Street. For more information, visit www.oceancitylibrary.org or call 609399-2434.

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Monday, November 11

Tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series ▶7-8:30 p.m.

Gregory’s, 900 Shore Road

Join the South Jersey Jazz Series for an evening of live jazz, featuring Tom Angello on the drums, Geraldine Oliver on vocals, Aaron Graves on piano and Lee Smith on bass. Admission is $15 for Jazz Society members, $20 non-members. No charge for Patron Members. Visit www.southjerseyjazz. org for more information.

Tuesday, November 12

Beginner Yoga Class in Somers Point ▶10 a.m.

Somers Point Senior Center, 22 N. Ambler Road

The City of Somers Point is hosting a Beginner Yoga Class for Seniors. Take part in a relaxed gentle flow, with focuses on yoga poses linking movement with breath, increasing strength and flexibility. Time will be spent on the mat, in seated, kneeling and standing poses. Bring your own mat. Register by calling 609-226-4389 or email helbigshore@icloud.com.

Village Film Society ▶10:30 a.m.

Join JFS Village Film Enthusiast Tom Celandine for a discussion about the Academy and Golden Globe nominated film, “Inherit the Wild,” starring

Gift Cards Available

Spencer Tracy, Gene Kelly, Fredric March and Dick York. This program will be held via Zoom. RSVP by Nov. 7 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-2878872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Somers Point Dance Society ▶7:30-10 p.m.

Somers Point Fire Hall, 447 Bethel Road

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.

Thursday, November 14

Freedom Song: One Family’s Struggle with Addiction, One Nation’s Path to Recovery ▶6:30 p.m.

Katz JCC 501 N. Jerome Ave., Margate

This performance is an original musical production about addiction and recovery in the Jewish community, interwoven with the story of Passover, with a cast comprised of addicts in recovery from drugs, alcohol, gambling and other destructive behaviors. Through song, dance, tears, laughter and a post-show discussion with the cast. Freedom Song opens an honest conversation on addiction and recovery. Admission is free. RSVP at http:// bit.ly/4h7ffTo.

Friday, November 15

Memoir Workshop

▶10:30 a.m.

Join JFS Village in experiencing the thrill of capturing life’s adventures, history and ancestry with a Memoir Workshop led by Drexel University’s Director of Certificate Program in Writing and Publishing, Harriet Levin Millan. A laptop or pen and paper is needed for this workshop. This program will be held via Zoom. RSVP by Nov. 12 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or email tserota@ jfsatlantic.org.

Saturday, November 16

Winterfest by the Sea

▶9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Ocean City Civic Center, 6th St. and Boardwalk

The Ocean City Chamber of Commerce will host its Fourth Annual Winterfest by the Sea Holiday Shopping Extravaganza. Craft vendors, food vendors and a strolling Santa will be present for this all-day holiday gift and craft market. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Monday, November 18

Women’s Coffee and Conversation: Healthy Holidays and Beyond

▶10:30 a.m.

Katz JCC 501 N. Jerome Ave. Margate

Join JFS Village as they host professional speakers on issues that impact a woman’s ability to live her best life. Join Dr. Samar Bursheh, MD, CCD, who specializes in endocrinology, diabetes and weight loss, as she shares her vast knowledge and experience on realistic, attainable and maintainable healthy eating goals through the holidays and beyond. This program will be held at the Katz JCC Boardroom. RSVP by Nov. 11 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Memory Connections

▶1 p.m.

Katz JCC 501 N. Jerome Ave. Margate

Join JFS Village for a gathering of caregivers of loved ones with dementia, and the person living with the disease. Caregivers will participate in a support group with a trained professional while their loved one will enjoy a socialization activity. Light refreshments will be served. This program will be held at the Katz JCC Boardroom. RSVP by Nov. 11 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Health and Wellness

Living in the Moment Group

▶Fridays, 10:30 a.m.

Mental Health Association of Atlantic County, 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Road

Suite 8, Galloway

Slow down and spend an hour with like-minded people working on developing gratitude, self-love and other character traits that encourage mindfulness. Weekly meetings include meaningful discussions, camaraderie and a group activity. For more information, call 609-652-3800 ext. 0306. Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, Nov. 6, 1:30 p.m. 6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, Mays Landing

Held 1:30-3 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of every month. Call Diane Conover at 609-402-6966 for more information.

MHA Atlantic Family Meetings

▶Thursday, Nov. 7, 7 p.m.

These virtual support groups and educational programs are for individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. Day and evening meetings include an educational segment as well as support in the form of stress-reduction, self-care, resources, and advocacy. Meetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday, and 7 p.m. every third Wednesday. Contact Gail Christian at 609-6523800 ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj. org to receive a meeting link. NAMI Family Support and Connection

▶Monday, Nov. 11, 7 p.m.

TIRE

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point Hosted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). The Family Support Group is peer led for families, care-givers and loved ones of individuals with mental illness; Connection is a recovery support group for adults 18+ living with a mental health condition. Participants gain the support of peers who understand their experience and insight into others’ challenges and successes. Visit www. namiacm.org or call 609-741-5125 for more information.

Lung Cancer Screening Event

▶Saturday, Nov. 23, 8 a.m.-Noon Shore Medical Center, 100 Medical Center Way, Somers Point Shore Medical Center, a member of the Penn Medicine Cancer Network and Advanced Shore Imaging Associates are offering free screenings and consultations provided by Shore Physicians Group. If you are between the ages of 50 and 80 and a current smoker or have quit smoking in the last 15 years, a low-dose CT scan may be right for you. Call 609-653-3440 for your appointment.

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

Thank you, Chief, for your service station

By Charles P. Eberson Se nior Moments

My parents, Bernard and Yetta, settled in Atlantic City in 1950 before moving to Ventnor and eventually to Hanover Avenue in Margate. My wife and I have been residents of Ventnor for 45 years.

Over a span of 70-plus years, there have been many changes to the local area in the name of “progress,” and a few special ones have stayed with me. There was the “log house” at Longport Point – a structure that perhaps would have looked more at home as a “great camp” on some pristine lake in New York’s Adirondack mountains. Or Dr. Roger’s classic English Tudor

home in Margate, resembling homes in England’s Lake District, one block from Casel’s Supermarket. Then, of course, there was my boyhood home in Margate, known locally as the “house with the lions” for the four concrete lions guarding the property like sentinels. All were torn down and replaced with more modern structures.

Soon, another Downbeach property will suffer a similar fate: Taylor’s Liberty Service Center, where I enjoyed a few years of my misspent youth.

This service station on Ventnor Avenue, between Franklin and Exeter avenues in Margate, dates back to 1924. The Taylors have operated it since 1959 through several iterations – Esso, Exxon, Citgo, Gulf, and most recently, Liberty.

The owner came to be known as “Chief” since he always said there were too many chiefs working there, until he made it abundantly clear that as the owner, there was only one Chief. He was a loud, barrel-chested man who did not suffer fools gladly. He called me “Charlie Brown,” and whenever I pulled into the station, I would hear my name bellowed out.

Chief’s son, Bud, worked at the station. So he, me, and an assorted cadre of high school friends would use this gas station as our “clubhouse” on the weekends, hanging out and working on our cars. This was the era of muscle cars, and we were caught up in the frenzy, heading out to the 8-mile drag strip in Pleasantville on the weekends. At this strip, anyone could race what they brought, even your dad’s Ford station wagon if you wished, and some did. Bud brought his 1969 Plymouth Road Runner, and we were his pit crew.

Our activities at Taylor’s service station often ran into the wee hours of the morning and often caught the attention of the Margate police. It seems like drag racing through the lot among gas pumps was not looked upon kindly by the police – nor by Chief when they woke him up and summoned him to the station. Before long, the police knew us all by name, and we knew them. In hindsight, we were treated more kindly than we deserved. Actually, we feared Chief more than the police.

As always, time moved on and we became somewhat respectable, with no police records to speak of. Chief

also moved on and Bud became the owner of Taylor’s Exxon, keeping the tradition of checking the oil and cleaning the windshields when cars came in for gas.

When my mum was in her 70s, she would drop her car off at Taylor’s and Bud would give her a ride home, then make sure her car was dropped off when it was ready. I am sure he provided that service to other elderly customers as well.

When I brought my car in, I would pull a blank service sheet, fill out what service I needed, and leave it on the desk with my keys. Recently, the blade on my lawnmower was so rusted on that all my efforts to remove it were unsuccessful. Not knowing what to do, I loaded the mower into my van and brought it to Taylor’s. Bud’s son stepped up, put an air wrench on the nut and managed not only to remove, he also installed the new one I had brought with me.

Sadly, the tradition of privately owned service stations is becoming a thing of the past. Rapidly evolving technology, the expensive equipment, training, updates to support it, as well as soaring insurance rates and environmental regulations make such ownership very challenging.

The future of the property has been a hot button on local social media, with swirling rumors and innuendos. But before too long, the place now known as Taylor & Son Liberty Service Center will become a memory as faded as the photos in their office, tracing the long history of one of Margate’s storied family businesses.

But do me a favor… in the future, if you see a car smoking the tires across the lot, please don’t call the police.

Charles Eberson has been in the newspaper business for over 25 years. He has worked as a writer, advertising executive, circulation manager and photographer. His photography can be viewed at charles-eberson. fineartamerica.com

Thank You!

Janice Johnston

THANK YOU to Somers Point Ward 1 voters for your overwhelming conﬁdence in me to continue working hard for our great town.

"I am always open to hearing your thoughts and ideas for moving Somers Point forward!"

Thank you,

Janice Johnston

Somers Point City Councilwoman

Community Foodbank of New Jersey hosted ninth annual Women Fighting Hunger Luncheon

Beloved annual event raises awareness and funds for hunger relief, featuring Melissa Clark

The Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) hosted its ninth annual Women Fighting Hunger Luncheon on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park and the Linwood Country Club to support CFBNJ’s efforts to nourish New Jersey families in need. For the third time, the event was held in both North Jersey and South Jersey simultaneously to generate funds and awareness across the state. In total, 570 people attended the luncheon, which raised more than $408,000, thanks to the event sponsors, chairs and attendees.

The North Jersey event was sponsored by Wakefern Food Corp., and the South Jersey event was sponsored by ACME Nourishing Neighbors and Spencer’s & Spirit Halloween. This year’s luncheon focuses on providing nourishing and comforting meals for children and families at home.

Guests were encouraged to bring donations for a weekday dinner meal kit, based on Melissa Clark’s adapted

recipe for Lemony Baked Rice. The drive collected 1,746 pounds of food, including shelf-stable lemon juice, shelf-stable grated Parmesan cheese, microwavable basmati rice, bottled dried herbs, canned white beans and vegetable broth.

This year's Luncheon began at 11 a.m. with a special kit packing volunteer activity at both locations. Guests created nearly 616 family meal kits, which were distributed to CFBNJ community partners immediately following the event to help families in need create a nourishing dinner at home.

and Cookbook Author. Clark is a staff reporter for the New York Times Food section, where she writes the popular column “A Good Appetite” and appears in a weekly cooking video series. She is also an advocate and voice of The Home Cook and has written more than 40 cookbooks. The interview was live in North Jersey and simulcast in South Jersey.

“Sharing meals at the table fosters connection and healthy eating habits for both children and adults to instill in everyday life.”

The event’s lunch and formal program featured an interview with Melissa Clark, New York Times Food Columnist

“Being a cookbook author means having a voice to share my passion for food and cooking. Each recipe I have created throughout the years invites individuals across the world to explore new flavors and create new memories," said Clark, cookbook author and staff reporter for the New York Times food section.

The North Jersey program was moderated by NBC 4 New York’s Kay Angrum. The South Jersey program was moderated by local health reporter Robin Stoloff. In North Jersey, CFBNJ’s community partner and recipient of Hope award at CFBNJ’s Blue Jean Ball Gala, Tree House Cares, Founder and Director, Tanya Veltz joined the program to speak about the work they do around the clock in the Newark community. In South Jersey, CFBNJ’s network partner, Chestnut Assembly of God, and Pantry Manager Cheron Rosado joined the program to speak about the pantry and community it serves.

"Our goal is for every family across the state to have access to nutritious food,” said Elizabeth McCarthy, President and CEO of Community FoodBank of New Jersey. “A family meal and a seat at the table can open healthy and encouraging dialogues that help shape the well-being of all."

Fam Rehabilitation steps to the plate for neurological rehab patients

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

In life, sometimes we are thrown curveballs. What we do with the pitch determines if we are going to strike out or hit a homer. This article is about a dedicated, hard-working doctor of physical therapy, Olivia Wattles.

She was living a good life in Syracuse, N.Y. Olivia was employed at the SUNY (State University of New York) Medical University Hospital in the outpatient neuro department and an adjunct professor of neurology.

Olivia, being a Jersey girl, realized that South Jersey is where she belonged – closer to her family. So she, along with her husband, Cameron, and two children: Juliette, 4; and Howie, 1; pulled up their New York roots and decided

that Atlantic County was the perfect spot to raise their family and where she could find a great job in the field that she loved.

She knew the outstanding reputation that the Bacharach Institute for Rehabilitation had and it seemed to be a perfect fit for her, where her skills would be a great compliment. Everything was so good. She was living her best life in pursuit of treating neurological patients in an outpatient setting.

Just as everything was going so well, in the spring of 2023, Bacharach announced that the renowned rehab institute would be closing forever. It was not only a shock to her, but to the entire region of Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and Ocean counties.

The question that Olivia, as well as her patients, had is where would they go for work, and more importantly, go for treatment? The closest outpatient neurological clinic was an hour away in Cherry Hill. It was simply too far to travel for her and her patients.

Her field of neurology requires focused, one-on-one treatment. “Some of the orthopedic clinics say that they provide this service, but it is not the same

as what I provide with the specialty care the patients need and deserve,” she said.

She has eight years of experience in treating neurologically impaired patients. She recently received her Neurological Clinical Specialist (NCS) certification.

She knew she did not want to work in an inpatient facility and she did not want to do homecare. All of the other outpatient clinics are ortho, which was not her specialty.

There was only one thing for Olivia and her husband, Cam, to do, and that was to open their own clinic at 329 Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway.

This was out of necessity for her to continue to pursue her passion. She knew there was no turning back. Olivia was going to hit that ball out of the park by addressing the sudden void in the community. Hence, she and her husband opened Fam Rehabilitation (FAM) in Galloway.

It is a therapy clinic specializing in neurological physical therapy. She will eventually provide occupational therapy.

The partnership with Cameron is working well. He handles the office management and business aspects,

while Olivia focuses on the treatment aspect. She has also assembled a great team with Denise Graybill, OTR/L, who has been an occupational therapist for 28 years; Marianne (Mare) Sparacia PT/ DPT, and Gracie Rowley.

Olivia said, “Never in my wildest dreams would I think I would have my own business. I was happy working for a company and just going home to my family life, but I cannot be happier how the business and patients have grown.”

Olivia’s business is what people encounter when an adverse setback in life occurs. You want somebody with the compassion and the focused, one-onone attention that Fam Rebab offers.

For neurological treatment find out the difference that Fam Rehab offers. Call 609-964-7901, find them on Facebook or see Fam Rehabilitation on the web at www.Fam Rehabilitation.com.

Margate kicks off holiday season with Shop Small Weekend, American Sign Language Santa and Friends Parade

While milder temperatures might not say ‘holiday’ to most, there’s no denying the fact the season is quickly approaching and the Margate Business Association is all in and ready to celebrate the Shop Small Business extravaganza beginning Friday, Nov. 29 through to Sunday, Dec. 1, presented by Lexus. Local businesses will be offering great sales, discounts, and contests for shoppers, highlighted by a parade through town by America Sign Language (ASL) Santa and some friends.

On Saturday, Nov. 30 at noon, ASL Santa will travel from Coolidge Avenue and be escorted down the length of Ventnor Avenue by the Margate City Fire Department and the Margate City Police Department to Bocca Coal Fired Bistro, at Essex Avenue. Santa will be accompanied in his beach patrol sleigh by his dedicated elf and unicorn.

Heading up the event is Miss New Jersey 2024 Elizabeth Mendel; Leslie’s Dance Studio dancers, who will perform to holiday favorites in front of Bocca; characters Darth Vader and Snoopy will ride high above the streets in Margate’s 5-ton Storm Truck. Atlantic County Utilities Authority CNG pickup trucks will deliver Supercan, and the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Atlantic City Division, will march the parade route. Lucy the Elephant (the inflatable version) will slowly make her way down Ventnor Avenue. Santa, his elves, a unicorn, Darth Vader and Snoopy will also be available for pictures and visits both outside of Bocca and then inside the restaurant where children can enjoy a complimentary slice of pizza and beverage along with a wrapped Wawa cookie (while supplies last). Also, opening this December, Na'cho Taco (corner of Essex & Ventnor Avenues) will have their Taco character ready to pose for pictures. USADJ will be offering Holiday Music and their prize wheel, and pianist Shawn Quigley will be performing inside Bocca. The Marjorie and Lewis Katz JCC will be offering a free holiday craft and there will be a cornhole contest on Essex Ave. to win great prizes!

Children can drop off their letters to Santa at the North Pole via his slotted mailbox in the foyer of Bocca from Friday, Nov. 29 to Sunday Dec. 8 at 6pm.

On Saturday, a scavenger hunt for coupons hidden in small holiday

boxes (one per person) will be placed throughout the business districts (nothing will be hidden inside a business) for coupons to great Margate businesses. Sustainable Margate will have environmental displays and information on Saturday at Bocca and participants can spin the wheel or play a quiz game to win prizes. New Jersey Fairy Hair will be on hand at Bocca ready to adorn your hair with sparkly strand extensions.

Shop Small Selfie Contest:

Take a picture in front of your favorite business and send the photo to info@margatehasmore.com by 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1. Winners will be selected and announced on Monday, Dec. 2.

For additional information on these events and much more go to www.margatehasmore.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Sponsors include Lexus, Margate City Police Department, Margate City Fire Department, Margate Business Association, Bocca Coal Fire Pizza, Na’cho Taco, USADJ, Wawa, Fantazzia Co., Sustainable Margate and Shore Local Newsmagazine.

American Sign Language Santa and his helpers will ride down Ventnor Avenue, Margate during Shop Small weekend on Nov. 29. Photo credit: Hannah Hussman

By Bruce Klauber

When Margate had a boardwalk

Four years ago, an organization called the Margate Boardwalk Committee floated the idea of building a 1.5-mile boardwalk that would connect with both Ventnor and Longport. The committee estimated the cost would be about $24 million, with the bill for taxpayers being an estimated $100 to $190 per year in additional taxes.

What was voted on that year was whether or not Margate should begin what was called a “feasibility study” of building the boardwalk. The Boardwalk Committee was quite specific about why a Margate boardwalk should be built.

On Oct. 19, 2019, the committee submitted the following to the Margate administrative staff:

“The Margate Boardwalk Committee’s proposal to build a boardwalk

is a response to the problems created for our citizens by the dune project implemented by the state of New Jersey. We have lost access to the beach, views of the ocean and the physical as well as social connections that make us a beach community.

“We believe that a boardwalk is the missing piece of a puzzle that reconnects the beaches to the rest of Margate and restores our place as a first-class resort town. The question of whether or not to build a boardwalk is simply too big and too important to be left to the Commissioners. We want the people to decide.”

The sand dune issue was only a part of the reason for considering the possibility of a Margate boardwalk.

On Oct. 1, 2020, Margate resident Sean O. Donovan wrote the following letter, stating his rather idealized view of why there should be a boardwalk, to the editor of the Downbeach Buzz:

“It’s a difficult job through sensi -

tive areas, but if we all pull together as a team, the project will be completed expeditiously. A boardwalk is a specialized type of public infrastructure thoroughfare. Air, land and the ocean all meet together with an amazing combination of sea spray, sand and surf. Young and old can all enjoy easy access. Everything from strollers to wheelchairs. The very fit to not-so-fit can exercise and relax. Multiple generations of families can stroll past a triathlete, as well as an occasional napper. Friends meet and strangers can become friends.

“The crown jewel of every beach town is the boardwalk,” Donovan continued. “Pedestrians and bicyclists are safely protected and away from inattentive or careless motorists. The boards gently absorb shock from feet; the sounds of wheels can be mesmerizing. All towns are proud of the beautiful improvements that can last for generations.

“The funding for such a Margate Boardwalk project can come from more than one source. After all, there are many beneficiaries. Tourists from around the country visit our Jersey Shore boardwalks, and so do many from overseas.

“The beach is a gift from Mother Nature for all to enjoy. We should do everything possible to rebuild Margate’s boardwalk, not only to increase the attractiveness of our shore area, but also, so that we can share these blessings with so many more.”

Opponents maintained that the cost of building the boardwalk would be almost twice the $24 million estimate submitted, to say nothing of the costs of maintaining it.

The Margate Board of Commissioners cited additional fire hydrants, more police patrols, parking issues, updated drainage systems, and water and sewer work as among the possible, ongoing expenses of maintaining a new boardwalk.

Then there was a concern about

possible crime. Opponents maintained that, according to an Associated Press report filed on Nov 5, 2020, “An unbroken walkway from Atlantic City to their shore resort town would make it easier for criminals to commit crimes in Margate and quickly return home.”

Glenn Klotz was the chairman of the group, the Friends of the Margate Boardwalk. Klotz, at the time, dispelled the notion that the Margate Boardwalk Boardwalk would be anything like the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

“We do not want anyone out there to think we want a commercial boardwalk,” Klotz said. “We are not advocating that there are any businesses on this boardwalk in any way. Atlantic City will always be the commercial end, but Ventnor and the end of Atlantic City act as residential buffers and Margate will be completely residential. Margate never had a commercial boardwalk, and there is no sentiment for one.”

In a referendum, Margate residents voted down the idea of a boardwalk 2-to-1. The idea hasn’t been floated since.

Opponents and proponents of the Margate Boardwalk might not have been aware of a crucial part of history: That Margate, New Jersey actually had a boardwalk.

The Margate Boardwalk was built in 1906 and stood closer to the ocean than Atlantic City’s modern-day counterpart, making it more susceptible to wind and water damage. It lasted for 38 years until September of 1944 when the Great Atlantic Hurricane destroyed a good portion of it, as well as significant portions of the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

Remnants remained until 1962, when a nor’easter wiped out the remainder. The 1962 storm also destroyed most of Ventnor’s boardwalk. That portion was rebuilt, complete with an extension to the Fredericksburg Avenue Ventnor/Margate border. It opened in the spring of 1963.

The Margate Boardwalk was never rebuilt. And chances are, it never will.

is the

Bruce Klauber

author

four books,

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.

What’s happening in Ocean City

Ocean City gets ready for full schedule of holiday events

From Winterfest by the Sea on Nov. 16 through the First Night and First Day celebrations on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, Ocean City has a full calendar of family-friendly events lined up.

The fifth annual Winterfest By The Sea at the Ocean City Civic Center on Nov. 16 kicks things off. The event will include craft vendors, food vendors and a strolling Santa will be present. Shopping hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The “Earlier than the Bird” Downtown Shopping Extravaganza has become a fun tradition for holiday shoppers in Ocean City. The event is always held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and encourages folks to shop in their pajamas for early-bird specials at stores on downtown Asbury Avenue. Check it out from 8 a.m. to noon on Nov. 23.

Free Horse and Carriage Rides along decorated downtown Asbury Avenue also begin on Nov. 23. They are available on weekends (including Nov. 23, 29, 30 and Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22) from noon to 3 p.m. with boarding at Sixth Street.

The Ocean City Fire Department

will be ready in case Santa makes his usual landing on the roof of City Hall at 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29. While others are crowding the malls on Black Friday, you can enjoy the old-fashioned Christmas in the Downtown – “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue.” Join the downtown

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merchants and Chamber in shopping, caroling and other entertainment.

Two tours are scheduled: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 17 and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 17, and they will be staged from the Ocean City Senior Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue. Space is limited, so get your tickets ($30 per person) now by visiting ocnj.us/jollytrolley. It’s not too early to think about celebrating the arrival of 2025 at Ocean City’s family-friendly First Night New Year’s Eve celebration. All-inclusive admission buttons are on sale now.

Tickets are available:

● Online: firstnightocnj.com

● By phone: 609-399-6111.

● At the City Hall Welcome Center at 861 Asbury Avenue (9th Street entrance): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

● At the Roy Gillian Welcome Center (9th Street causeway): 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

● At the 46th Street Welcome Center (4500 block of West Avenue): 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday.

There will be a couple options for getting photos with Santa. He will be available for Photos with Santa in a Lifeguard Boat from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 at the Ocean City Music Pier. On the same dates, Santa also will be available to visit with kids from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Downtown at Mark Soifer Park (Ninth Street and Asbury Avenue).

The annual Christmas Parade is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 on Asbury Avenue from 6th Street to 11th Street.

Another holiday tradition is the Train Show at the Ocean City Music Pier. The free event features model train displays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7 and 8.

Festive Fridays are on tap for Dec. 13 and 20. Join downtown Ocean City merchants as they celebrate the holiday season with shopping specials. Enjoy horse-andcarriage rides from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. through the downtown adorned with thousands of Christmas lights and shop for some of the best gifts this holiday season. Two pickup locations include the Tabernacle (Sixth and Asbury) and OceanFirst Bank (10th and Asbury).

Tickets are on sale now for a new holiday trolley tour geared toward families with young children. The Jolly Trolley Lights Tour on Dec. 17 will include a tour of Ocean City homes decorated for the holidays, a photo with Santa and a Christmas craft project. Participants are encouraged to dress warmly in their pajamas and enjoy hot cocoa and other treats.

First Night offers more than 70 entertain programs at 20 different venues throughout town on Dec. 31. One $20 button is good for all programs. Don’t wait, because button sales are limited as the price goes up to $25 on Dec. 1.

Headline entertainment at the Ocean City Music Pier this year will include a tribute to the music of the Eagles and the “Yacht Rock Gold Experience.” The return of perennial favorites like outdoor ice-skating, a magic show, a mentalist, a ventriloquist, the Harlem Wizards, Japanese drummers and a variety of other shows also highlight the entertainment lineup. The Ocean City Pops (with a Rodgers & Hammerstein Extravaganza), Yellow Brick Road: A Tribute to Elton John, the Cape Shore Chorale, a dueling pianos performance, and the Sensational Soul Cruisers are among the additional musical entertainment options.

New this year will be a drone light show in the sky over Carey Stadium synced to music. As always, the festivities will end with a fireworks display to ring in the new year at midnight.

First Night’s 2025 sponsors include the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Cape May County Division of Culture and Heritage, McMahon Insurance Agency, Ocean City Free Public Library, Uncle Bill’s Pancake House and Atlantic City Electric.

The festivities will continue with First Day events on Jan. 1, 2025, and registration is now open for the First Day 5K running race on the boardwalk: ocnj.us/ OCNJ-FIRST-DAY-RUN/ WALK.

Complete information on First Night is available at firstnightocnj.com.

Also coming up in November and December

Veterans Day Program (Nov. 11): 11 a.m. inside the Ocean City Tabernacle (550 Wesley Avenue).

Lucinda Williams and Her Band (Nov. 23): The concert begins at 8 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix. com.

Fast & Furriest 5K Turkey Trot (Nov. 28): Annual 5K running race on the Ocean City Boardwalk benefits the Humane Society of Ocean City. For more information call 609398-9500 ext. 4 or visit hsocnj.org.

Anastasia: The Musical (Youth Edition) (Dec. 14 and 15): Presented by the Ocean City Theatre Company’s Junior Company, the musical is

Stella Zatwaska. Navy. World War II. Egg Harbor Township.

Larry A. Campbell of Ventnor. USAF Airforce 1968-1972. During Vietnam Wartime. December 31st 1948-October 27th 2024.

George A. Loder. Navy. World War II. Atlantic City.

Charles Christy of Egg Harbor Township served in the United States Army

USAF Charles "Charlie" De Santis Korean War Conflict Northfield. Tyler J. Reynolds. US Navy. Stationed in Okinawa Japan. Rank: RPSA. Hometown: Egg Harbor Township.

Dr. David Cooper, served in the United States Army during World War II, a Medical Corps Officer and was stationed in England.

Staff Sergeant Bernard Eberson of Margate served in WWII as a parachute rigger.

OCTC’s 'Lightning Thief' wows audiences

This past weekend, the Ocean City Theatre Company presented The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical to a near-sold-out crowd at the Ocean City Music Pier. The musical, adapted from Rick Riordan's book The Lightning Thief, took audiences on a journey as Percy Jackson and his friends attempted to retrieve Zeus' powerful master bolt while facing mythological enemies along the way. The cast included middle and high school students in grades 7 through 12.

OCTC will conclude its 2024 season with Anastasia: The Musical –Youth Edition, featuring members of the Junior Company. Performances will take place on Saturday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15, at 2 p.m., both at the Music Pier. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

A Look Back

By Fred Miller

Forty-two years ago, on Nov. 13, 1982, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. was dedicated during a week-long national tribute to all vet-

Monument. The land around the memorial is grassy and open like a park. It’s a place for people to remember the servicemen and servicewomen who died in the Vietnam War. It is the most visited monument in Washington.

More than 2.7 million served in the war. These soldiers were very young. Many were only 19 years old. The average age of those listed on the wall is 22.

On shining black wall are the names of eight Ocean City servicemen: Willie E. Granger (Panel 49W, Line 4), John

This photograph of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial shows the name of Bruce M. Miley. He was killed on October 21, 1968. He was 21 years old.

erans. The Memorial Wall, designed by Maya Lin, was dedicated to more than 58,000 Americans who died or were listed as missing in the Vietnam War.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is near the Potomac River between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington

C. Martin (Panel 41E, Line 11), Bruce M. Miley (Panel 40W, Line13), Jon R. Morvay (Panel 28E, Line 56), Charles W. Sterling (Panel 4W, Line 98), Robert A. Woodrow (Panel 23E, Line 8), William R. Godfrey (Panel 41E, Line 61) and George F. Long (Panel 63W, Line 18)

Whether you’re interested in the hottest new books, educational workshops, children’s activities, or online resources, the library has everything you need to spark your imagination this fall. Visit OceanCityLibrary.org

and resources.

South Jersey’s Andy Kim, bound for U.S. Senate, calls for ‘a politics that lifts people up’

By Nikita Biryukov, NJ Monitor

Rep. Andy Kim will ascend to the U.S. Senate seat once held by Bob Menendez, capping a tumultuous campaign that reshaped New Jersey’s ballots and politics.

Kim defeated his GOP opponent, Cape May hotelier Curtis Bashaw, in a race where Kim, a former U.S. State Department and Obama White House staffer, was considered a heavy favorite. The victory extends New Jersey Democrats’ U.S. Senate winning streak to 52 years.

Kim chose to give his victory speech at a Cherry Hill hotel that housed his family after they moved to New Jersey during the congressman’s childhood.

“There have been only a few moments in my life where I’ve felt the weight of the moment as I do right now, like a gravity generated by the magnitude of the consequence in our country,” Kim said.

The senator-elect will be the first Asian American to represent New Jersey in the upper chamber of Congress. He will replace Sen. George Helmy (D), whom Gov. Phil Murphy appointed to Menendez’s seat after Menendez resigned on the heels of his federal convictions for bribery and other charges.

Because Helmy was appointed to the seat to fill a vacancy, state law allows Kim to take the seat after state

Medical Reserve Corps Volunteer

election officials certify his victory. The deadline for them to certify election results is Dec. 5.

Kim, a Burlington County resident born to Korean immigrants, was the first New Jersey public official to call for Menendez’s resignation after the then-senator was indicted last September.

Kim has represented New Jersey’s 3rd Congressional District since ousting Rep. Tom MacArthur (R) in 2018 amid a Democratic wave that left Democrats with 11 of the state’s 12 House seats.

He gained a national profile in the aftermath of the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol, when he was photographed cleaning up debris left by rioters who sought to stop the certification of President Joe Biden’s 2020 victory.

“We’ve shown the country that there’s a better way to be able to do this. It could mean a politics that lifts people up, that gives people hope, that delivers for everyone,” Kim said Tuesday. “It could mean a politics that changes the trajectory of our nation and builds a brighter future.”

With Murphy out of the race, Kim sailed to the Democratic nomination, easily defeating activists Larry Hamm and Patricia Campos-Medina. He entered the general election cycle as the clear favorite.

“To my campaign team who carried out our message of change going forward, I know that many of you took risks to join this campaign. You had people doubt your choice to join this campaign. You worked long hours and struggled and stressed about the challenges we confronted. I hope you take pride in this moment,” Kim said.

Kim’s Senate campaign was initially met with opposition from New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy, who entered the race with backing from numerous Democratic county chairs — endorsements that promised her the coveted county line on primary ballots.

The primary balloting practice grouped candidates by slogan and, opponents argued, lent an advantage to party-backed candidates who found themselves in a single row or column with others endorsed by party officials for separate offices.

In February, Kim sued clerks in the 19 New Jersey counties that use county-line ballots, arguing the ballot design violated First Amendment protections on free association and impacted election results in violation of a separate provision in the U.S. Constitution.

Days after Murphy withdrew her candidacy in March, a U.S. District Court judge barred the use of lines in Democratic primaries. Most county clerks named in the suit have since settled Kim’s suit and agreed not to use the county line on ballots moving forward.

The GOP had backed Bashaw, a pro-abortion rights and openly gay Republican who put more than $2 million of his own money behind his Senate bid.

Bashaw told reporters Tuesday shortly after the race was called for Kim that “the acrimony in our politics is not where we want to be.”

“I think New Jersey is a moderate state of people that just want to get things done, and so I’m proud of having our own lane in this race throughout the entire time,” Bashaw said.

Despite his moderate positions, Bashaw faced an uphill climb in a state that last elected a Republican to the U.S. Senate in 1972 and where there were 905,748 more registered Democrats than Republicans on Election Day, according to state data. Bashaw conceded the race Tuesday night.

“I believe we have fought a good fight. This race has played by the rules of our American values, keeping it civil and focusing on the issues. I am proud and grateful for the commitment, dedication, and tireless effort of our amazing campaign team who focused on our mission of restoring hope for New Jersey,” he said during his concession speech.

Sen.-elect Andy Kim enters his victory party in Cherry Hill on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. (Ed Murray for New Jersey Monitor)

GOP Senate candidate Curtis Bashaw speaking to supporters after losing to Rep. Andy Kim. (Hal Brown for New Jersey Monitor)

Spring bulbs: Buried treasure in the garden

Let It Grow

By Tammy Thornton

Fall weather brings fire pits, flannel, and football. For gardeners, cooler temperatures also mean it's time for one of the season's best tasks—planting spring bulbs. Even beginner gardeners can have success planting bulbs and enjoy a burst of blooms come spring. The only challenge with spring bulbs is the wait. For those who prefer instant results, it can be a test of patience. But trust me, once you see those flowers, you’ll wish you had planted even more.

This year’s warm fall weather caused a slight delay in planting. Planting bulbs too early can result in premature sprouting. Now that November has ushered in cooler temperatures, it’s safe to begin planting. Tulips are a personal favorite, offering a range of varieties such as single early, double, Darwin hybrid, fringed,

and parrot tulips. Once bitten by the tulip bug, you'll understand the obsession known as “tulipmania” in the 1600s. If you’d like to learn more about this fascinating history, I recommend Tulipomania by Mike Dash.

If you grow tulips, be prepared for a battle with squirrels, who treat tulip bulbs as a delicacy. I’ve found that covering the soil with chicken wire after planting keeps these critters at bay.

To avoid pest problems, consider planting bulbs that squirrels, rabbits, and deer dislike. Daffodils, hyacinths, grape hyacinths, and alliums are great options. While planning your spring garden, keep in mind that each flower blooms at different times—daffodils may fade before tulips bloom, while alliums might wait until late spring. Flower packaging typically indicates bloom times, so you can plan color combinations accordingly. Plant tulips in clusters

of five or more of the same color to achieve a bold, vibrant display.

Most spring bulbs need a sunny location, but deciduous trees losing their leaves in fall allow more sun to reach garden beds. By the time trees start leafing out, the bulbs are

already well on their way. Plant bulbs in well-drained soil to prevent rot, with sandy soil providing the ideal conditions. Plant bulbs at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, and always place the pointed end facing up. If you’re planting tulips, lay a piece of chicken wire over the soil and secure it with a flat rock to deter wildlife.

Spring bulbs require a period of cold dormancy to bloom, a reminder that sometimes growth comes after a season of harshness. Planting bulbs in the fall is like burying treasure. When spring arrives, those hidden gems will burst forth, marking winter's end with vibrant blooms.

If you’ve never planted spring bulbs, give it a try. They’re easy to grow and a delight to discover when spring returns. We’d love to hear from our readers: What’s your favorite spring bulb? Send your 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.

Eagles at season halfway mark on a roll

By David Weinberg

The Eagles endured a bumpy ride en route to the halfway mark of their regular-season journey.

They hit a few pot holes and encountered some other obstacles and detours, but the Birds are still on course to challenge for the NFC East title and make the playoffs.

Sunday’s 28-23 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars – their fourth straight win – improved their record to 6-2. They’ve won at least six of their first eight games for the third consecutive season, which is the first time they’ve accomplished that feat since 1979-81.

The Eagles currently sit in second place in the division, a half-game behind the surprising Washington Commanders (7-2) and are tied with the Minnesota Vikings for the third-

best record in the NFC behind the Detroit Lions (7-1) and Commanders.

The next nine games figure to be more challenging. Their upcoming schedule includes two matchups with division rivals the Commanders and Dallas Cowboys, as well as games against the Pittsburgh Steelers (62), Baltimore Ravens (6-3) and Los Angeles Rams (4-4).

As last season proved – not to mention the Phillies this season –an encouraging start means little if there’s a disappointing finish.

But so far, so good.

MIDSEASON GRADES

Quarterback

Jalen Hurts got off to shaky start to the season, but he started to show signs that he is one of the top quarterbacks in the NFC. He has gone five straight games without throwing an interception, joining legendary Nick Foles (seven straight games) as the only Eagles QBs to accomplish that feat since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970. He now has 10 TD passes against just four interceptions and has started to become more of a threat as a runner. GRADE: B-plus.

Running back

Saquon Barkley has been nothing short of tremendous. He leads the

NFC in rushing with 925 yards while averaging 5.9 yards per carry and is also among the team’s top receivers. He rushed for 100-plus yards in five of the eight games and is the first Eagle to do so since LeSean McCoy (seven of eight) in 2011. GRADE: A-plus.

Offensive line

There were questions about this unit in the wake of center Jason Kelce’s retirement, but it is still among the league’s best, despite injuries to left tackle Jordan Mailata. Right tackle Lane Johnson and guard Landon Dickerson have been dominant. New center Cam Jurgens has been inconsistent, as has replacement left tackle Fred Johnson. GRADE: B

Wide receiver/tight end

Wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith are among the

league’s best tandems but have been slowed by injuries. Brown has 23 receptions for 444 yards and 3 TDs, but has missed three games and was hurt again against the Jaguars. Smith leads the team with 35 catches for 473 yards and 4 TDs. Tight end Grant Calcaterra has done a nice job filling in for Dallas Goedert, who has missed the last three games. GRADE: B-plus

Defensive line

This unit has been playing better after a slow start under new coordinator Vic Fangio. End Josh Sweat leads the team with five sacks. Tackle Jalen Carter has been unstoppable at times. Tackle Jordan Davis is now a run-stopping specialist. Tackle Milton Williams has been playing well. New end Bryce Huff has been a major disappointment. GRADE: C.

Linebacker

Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean have become a very effective duo. Baun leads the team with 79 tackles to go with two sacks and an interception. Dean has gotten better each week. He clinched the win over the Jaguars with an interception in the end zone. Missed tackles were a problem earlier but they’ve improved in that area. GRADE: B.

Secondary

Rookie cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean have been the standouts. Mitchell has quickly developed into a lock-down corner, though is still looking for his first interception. DeJean has replaced Avonte Maddox in the slot and has played well. Veteran Darius Slay has been OK. Safety Reed Blankenship leads the team with two interceptions. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson has been inconsistent. GRADE: B.

Special teams

Place-kicker Jake Elliott has not been as big an offensive weapon as in seasons past. He’s made 11-of-14 field goals compared to 18-for-20 a year ago and is 0-for-3 from 50 yards and beyond. Punt returner Britain Covey is injured, leaving DeJean to handle that role. Punter Braden Mann is averaging 51.3 yards per attempt. The unit allowed a block field goal against Cleveland that was returned for a TD. GRADE: C-minus.

Coaching

Nick Sirianni has been under fire for most of the season for his gameday decisions and sideline behavior. New offensive coordinator Kellen Moore has found his groove after a slow start. Same for new defensive coordinator Vick Fangio. Cornerbacks coach Roy Anderson deserves credit

for developing Mitchell and DeJean. GRADE: D (for Sirianni).

MIDSEASON AWARDS

Offensive MVP: Barkley

Defensive MVP: Baun

Special teams MVP: None

Local NFL update

Buffalo Bills defensive tackle

Austin Johnson (St. Augustine Prep, Galloway Township) had two tackles in a 30-27 victory over the Miami Dolphins last Sunday.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver

Bo Melton (Cedar Creek High School) had one reception for 19 yards in a 24-14 loss to the Detroit Lions.

Arizona Cardinals cornerback Max Melton (Cedar Creek) had two tackles and a pass defense in a 29-9 win over the Chicago Bears.

High school football playoffs in full swing

Atlantic City, Cedar Creek and Ocean City were among the local

teams to register firstround victories in the state playoffs last weekend and advance to the sectional semifinals.

Atlantic City (Central Jersey 5) defeated Eastern Regional 47-15 and will host Cherokee on Friday. Cedar Creek (Central 3) opened with a 39-14 win over Triton and will host Delsea Regional Friday. Ocean City (Central 3) earned a 42-34 win over Allentown. The Red Raiders travel to meet top-seeded Somerville Friday.

Holy Spirit and St. Augustine Prep will start their playoff pushes this weekend in the state Non-Public di -

visions. The Spartans (Non-Public B) open at home Friday against Donovan Catholic. The Hermits (Non-Public A) travel to Delbarton Saturday.

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.

Saquon Barkley’s hurdles a defender backwards.

Want Success? Move the Finish Line

By Bill Quain

In an attempt to “level the playing field,” many Americans are focused on moving the starting line. They argue that the current situation in the U.S. is unfair because some people start with more advantages than others. They want everyone to start in the same place so that everyone will finish in the same place. But moving the starting line is a bad idea. However, moving the finish line is a fantastic idea. Sound crazy? Let me explain my thoughts on the starting line, the finish line, and the journey along the way.

Practice “The Art of the Start” If you want to help yourself and others, stop worrying about where you start. Instead, focus on when you start. You have no control over where you start. If you come from a poor

family, then starting on the road to wealth means you’re starting behind children of wealthy parents. But here’s what you need to remember— everyone starts where they start. You have no choice! If you didn’t go to a good school because your neighborhood didn’t have one, you’re certainly starting at a disadvantage, and it’s not your fault. But you do have absolute, unquestioned, and unrestricted control over when—or if—you start. You can start today, tomorrow, or even choose never to start. Only you control the “when should I start” decision.

But I Need to Get Ready!

Here’s an excuse I often hear: “Well, I never got the training I need to get started, so I have to spend time preparing before I can really get going.” Big news—if you start preparing, then you’ve already started on your journey. Congratulations! You made a choice, and it was a good one. Remember, where you start isn’t important; when you start is all that matters.

Life is About the Journey

It amazes me that people aren’t more excited about the journey. When

you focus on the finish, you miss so much fun along the way. People are happiest when making meaningful progress toward a goal. But today’s culture often emphasizes equality over achievement, and when we do that, we miss the joy of being self-reliant. If we spend all our time comparing our situations to others, we miss the point. It doesn’t matter if we start in the same place as everyone else or finish in the same place. What matters is that we start and that there’s a difference between the two places!

Don’t Stop After Crossing the Finish Line

Now, get ready for a shocker. Let’s return to this week’s Six Words on a Boardwalk Bench: “Want Success? Move the Finish Line!” You have complete control over the finish line. Yes,

SIX WORDS ON A BOARDWALK BENCH by

Bill Quain

Bill, Isn’t This a “Participation Trophy?”

This question came up when I first shared this idea at a conference in New York. My answer? “Maybe the first finish line is a participation trophy, but the second one is more than that.” This idea is simple but can be hard to accept because we’re often

that’s right. You control when and where you finish. Don’t set the finish line so far away that it seems impossible even to start. In fact, set the finish line close to the starting line, so close that you can’t help but finish. Consider the two journeys below. In the first example, the finish line is so distant that you’re unlikely to have the endurance to reach it. In the second example, the first finish line is so close that you could finish just by falling forward. And take a look at the rest of the picture—are you having an “ah-ha” moment? You see, the first finish line becomes the new starting line. This is true for all of your finish lines. How is this possible? Because you have complete control over when and where you place the finish line.

Bill, Isn’t This Cheating?

No! It’s winning! I see so many people fail because they set the finish line too far away. They create a long journey with no rewards along the way. No wonder they’re unhappy! They let someone else decide where the finish line is instead of creating a habit of winning and celebrating each win. Would you rather spend a lifetime hoping for a win, or would you prefer to be more motivated, less stressed, and a better example to others by making winning a habit?

taught to think of the finish line as the journey’s end. It isn’t! It’s a “win” and a “celebration” along the way. And who doesn’t love that?

A Way to Reach Your Goals

Think about using this approach the next time you consider an important goal. Here’s a simple example: Want to lose 20 pounds? Set your finish line to lose two pounds. When you hit that line, it becomes the starting line for the next two pounds. It’s really that simple.

Now, Tell Me What You Think

As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this idea. You can reach me at bill@quain.com. And as I say each week, I’ll see ya’ in the papers!

Lucy the Elephant 1881

First Gasoline Powered Car 1889

First Airplane ﬂight 1903

First Philadelphia Phillies Game 1883

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Whitney’s Weekly Picks

This week presents an exciting range of events featuring weekend-long festivals and expos like the Atlantic City Tattoo Expo and the Who?Mag Distro Fest 3 featuring over 70 performers, plus a great lineup of comedians at various casinos, and even a free concert at the Ocean City Library. It will be a fun-filled, entertaining weekend, so don’t forget

to share your epic moments with the hashtags #shorelocal, #gotowhitney and #thecitypulse.

What : Funny Teachers Show-Teacher

Comics

Where: Showboat Atlantic City Scarduzio Room

When: Thursday, Nov. 7

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: standupcomedyclub.com

A lineup of teachers by day and comedians by night with GL Douglass, Kimberly Jonny and more. Hosted by Matt Bridgestone. Must be 18 to enter, 21 to drink. Food and drinks available.

Who: Comedian Joe Dombrowski

Where: Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa |

The Music Box

When : Friday, Nov. 8

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/ en/entertainment/the-music-box/ joe-dombrowski.html

The City Pulse with Whitney Ullman

Joe has been doing comedy since he was 8 years old, and took the world by storm in 2017 with a viral April Fools Day spelling test prank that ended with appearances on national television, including “The Ellen Degeneres Show.” Joe is now hosting a monthly show at the world-famous Comedy Store in Los Angeles. He also produces the podcast, “Social Studies” where he recaps outlandish stories from fans all over the country.

What : Who?Mag Distro Fest 3

Where: ACX1 Studios

When : Nov. 8-11

Time: Various times, check website for details

Website: distrofest.com

Distro Fest 3 includes over 70 performers, 50 music industry speakers, an awards show and music film festival.

What : The Atlantic City Tattoo Expo

Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino | Etess Arena

When : Nov. 8-10

Times : Friday 5-11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Website: www.casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/the-atlantic-city-tattoo-expo

The East Coast’s longest-running

tattoo show, The Atlantic City Tattoo Expo, will return for its 19th year at its home at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City to celebrate all things tattoo art. Get your tickets now.

What : U.S. Ghost Adventures, Atlantic City Ghost Tour

Where: Rainforest Café

When : various dates

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: usghostadventures.com/ atlantic-city-ghost-tour

Join Atlantic City Ghosts on a thrilling ghost adventure to reveal why the city is one of the most haunted locations on the coast. All tours meet at Rainforest Café, 2201 Boardwalk. Tours last one hour along a 1-mile walking distance. Ask about the

bonus extended tour and get additional haunted locations. Tours are held nightly at 8 p.m. Just bring your ID. You do not need printed tickets or passes.

Who: Jim Breuer

Where : Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa

When : Saturday, Nov. 9

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: www.borgata.mgmresorts. com/en/entertainment/the-musicbox/jim-breuer.html

Jim’s standup comedy tackles all subjects from marriage and relationships to current events to love and loss (and so much more) all with one goal in mind – to leave people with a little more hope.

Who : Theory of a Deadman Unplugged with Special Guests Escape The Fate and Cory Marks

Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino | Sound Waves

When : Saturday, Nov. 9

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : www.casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ theory-of-a-deadman

Experience the hard-hitting sounds and powerful lyrics of Theory of a Deadman live in concert. Enjoy stellar opening performances by Escape The Fate and country rock artist Cory Marks, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.

Continued on 44

Who: David Spade’s Catch Me Inside Tour

Where: Ocean Casino Resort

When : Saturday, Nov. 9

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : theoceanac.com/david-spade

Comedian David Spade brings his Catch Me Inside Tour to Ocean Casino Resort’s Ovation Hall. Get your tickets before it’s sold out.

together at the same time, but this calls for a celebration! But before the night is out, someone might be a victim of some “friendly” fire. This is not a dinner event, but cocktails are available for purchase. Recommended for ages 13 and older.

Who : Friends of Jerry (Grateful Dead Tribute)

Where: Anchor Rock Club

When : Saturday, Nov. 9

What : ‘Murder at the Perk | A Hilarious and Thrilling Mystery Adventure’

Where: Resorts Casino Hotel | Starlight Room

When : Saturday, Nov. 9

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: resortsac.com/entertainment/murder-mystery-atlantic-city It’s been a few years since everyone’s favorite group of pals have all been

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: anchorrockclub.

com

One of the area’s premier Grateful Dead tribute bands, Friends of Jerry, are coming to AC’s Anchor Rock Club for two full sets of electric jazz punk riffs on the Dead.

Who: FNO Event Culture

Presents: Donnell Rawlings Live in AC | AC Jokes

Where: Resorts Casino Hotel | Superstar Theater

When : Sunday, Nov. 10

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: resortsac.com/entertainment/ac-jokes-special-event-show

Get ready for an unforgettable night of laughter and entertainment as FNO Event Culture presents Donnell Rawlings live at Resorts Casino &

Hotel in Atlantic City for an evening filled with humor, music and pure joy.

Who: Michael Pedicin presents The Art of the Trio: The Richman/Parrish/ Monaghan Trio

Where: Ocean City Public Library

When : Sunday, Nov. 10

Time: 2 p.m.

Website: southjerseyjazz.org/venue/ ocean-city-free-public-library Michael Pedicin presents The Art of the Trio at the Ocean City Public Library each Sunday in November. These events are free to attend and

With the

Whitney Ullman, Stockton University graduate, and founder of gotowhitney.com is known as a “go to” resource, content creator, reporter, and influencer with established credibility in Atlantic City, The Jersey Shore, Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. With over 6 million views on her social platforms, she created TheCityPulse.com as a go-to lifeline for all things happening in the city!

enjoy.

Tony Miceli Trio on Nov. 17, and the Jim Ride Trio on Nov. 24.

Friday, November 8

Dirty Heads

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Joe Dombrowski

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Atlantic City Headliners

Saturday, November 9

Theory of a Deadman

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

David Spade

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Jim Breuer

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Friday, November 15

Morrissey

▶8:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

▶9 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, November 16

Freestyle Free for All

p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess

Wayne Newman

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Melvin Seals and JGB ▶8:30 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom

Saturday, November 23

KC & the Sunshine Band ▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Friday, November 29

Justin Hayward ▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, November 30

Jim Jefferies ▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

On Sale This Week Foreigner

▶Friday, Oct. 10 & Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, 8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

The 3 Kings Ultimate Elvis Experience ▶Saturday, Oct. 1, 3 p.m. & 8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Tickets on sale Friday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.

Jim Jeffries

Raise a glass to our veterans!

Drink Up!

By David Setley

Veterans Day, the annual celebration honoring American veterans, falls on Nov. 11. The holiday, originally called Armistice Day, commemorated the temporary cessation of combat in World War I, which took place on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. After World War II, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day, which, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, honors all living and deceased American veterans. On this holiday, I remember my father, Bernard “Mick” Setley, who served honorably in World War II as a member of the United States Marine Corps. To all veterans, thank you for your selfless service to our country and our freedom. Here are a few notable wine brands associated with veteran organizations: 7Cellars, Rombauer, and Fit Vines. Legendary football player John

Elway partnered with Rob Mondavi Jr., grandson of Robert Mondavi, to create 7Cellars in California. With every bottle sold, the company donates to nonprofit organizations. According to its website, 7Cellars has donated more than $250,000 to veterans' organizations, including Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization providing disaster and crisis relief by pairing veterans with first responders, medical providers and disaster operations. Visit the Team Rubicon website to learn more about their mission and work with veterans.

John Elway’s 2021 Elway’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout wine. Winemakers Isadora Frias Huggins and Rob Mondavi Jr. crafted a wine that is bold yet elegant. In fact, cabernets like this one helped put Napa Valley on the world wine map. The blend is 95% cabernet sauvignon, 4% petite sirah, and 1% petit verdot, featuring grapes from 7Cellars vineyards in Vaca Valley, Oak Knoll, Rutherford, and the Russian River Valley. Look for flavors of dark cherries, blackberries, dark chocolate-covered coffee beans, vanilla, baking spices, candied almonds and toffee. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with braised short ribs, meatballs, beef stroganoff, rack of lamb or even chocolate cake.

Rombauer Vineyards has a long history of supporting military veterans, starting with founder Koerner Rombauer. Rombauer, who served in the California Air National Guard and was a commercial pilot, was a proud patriot and advocate for veterans’ charitable organizations. “It is important to my family to give back to our communities and champion organizations that make a difference,” said Reagan Blackwood, a third-generation member of the Rombauer family. “I am proud we have continued our tradition of philanthropic giving, not only in support of veterans and current service members like my brother, but to many worthy causes across the country.” In honor of Veterans Day, Rombauer Vineyards is donating $35,000 to several military veteran organizations, including the Gary Sinise Foundation, Warrior Rising, and Big Sky Bravery. The Gary Sinise Foundation supports defenders, veterans, first responders and their families through various outreach programs. Warrior Rising helps veterans succeed in business, and Big Sky Bravery supports active-duty special operation forces.

Consider trying Rombauer’s classic Carneros Chardonnay to support the

winery's veteran philanthropy. This Napa Valley staple exemplifies what has made California chardonnays world-famous, with aromas of ripe yellow peach, melon and chamomile framed by a freshly baked pie crust. The palate is bright, featuring flavors of nectarine, subtle spice, and lively acidity, leaving you ready for another sip.

Fit Vines, another popular wine brand, also supports veterans by donating 25% of the proceeds from its Red Zinfandel to the Navy SEAL Foundation. Zinfandel, one of California’s best grapes, is also one of my favorite varietals. Like all Fit Vine wines, the Red Zinfandel is gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and produced using a proprietary process that reduces tannins, sugars, and histamines. Visit the Navy SEAL Foundation website to learn about programs for SEALs, Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewmen, veterans, and their families, including educational scholarships, support to assist veterans in transitioning to civilian life, medical and emotional support services, and more.

This Veterans Day, raise a glass to our American heroes and consider ways to support those who serve or have served our nation. If you have questions or comments, please visit me at the store or reach out at dsetley@passionvines.com. Cheers to our veterans 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.

Controversial, opinionated, talented: Morrissey coming to Ovation Hall Nov. 15

Tune In, Turn On

With Doug Deutsch

Many people reading this column may be familiar with the 1986 hit song

by longtime British rock group The Smiths, “Bigmouth Strikes Again.” In it then-lead vocalist, Morrissey, sings in his sweet-sounding, unique falsetto voice, “Sweetness, I was only joking when I said I’d like to smash every tooth in your head; by rights you should be bludgeoned in your bed.”

From early on, it was clear the controversial, highly opinionated, extremely talented singer/songwriter marched to the beat of his own dis-

W e n e e d e d t h i s .

S o m e r s P o i n t ’ s h a p p i e s t h o u r.

tinct drum, unafraid to speak his mind about highly-sensitive topics like politics including the Me Too movement (he’s decidedly ultra-conservative, upsetting many of longtime fans), and animal rights (“Meat Is Murder” is the title of an album by The Smiths). Morrissey to this day doesn’t permit the sale of meat products at his concerts.

The Smiths broke up in 1987 so Morrissey (full name: Steven Patrick Morrissey) launched a solo career in 1988. He comes to Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino on Friday, Nov. 15, his third time playing here. He previously performed at Borgata in 2007 and the now-closed House of Blues in 2013, both sold-out shows. He was scheduled to play Revel Casino in 2016, but it closed.

He clearly has a soft side, which can be heard to fine effect on songs like “Everyday Is Like Sunday,” “Suedehead,” “Now My Heart Is Full,” and “Let Me Kiss You,” to name a few. Simultaneously blending macabre imagery and emotion with songs dripping with melodrama, the 65-year-old Morrissey could be considered the godfather of the melodic, dramatic popular genre called Emo.

On a related note, “Bonfire Of The Teenagers” is the title of an album he recorded in 2020-21 to be released by Capitol Records. But the label chose not to due to the LP’s controversial title, which referenced the 2017 Manchester Arena (UK) bombing at an Ariana Grande concert, deeming it commercially risky and leading to the singer’s departure from Capitol.

As great a lyricist as Morrissey is – and he’s one of modern rock’s best – his interview quotes are even better. “When I’m lying in my bed I think about life and I think about death and neither one particularly appeals to me,” the musician is quoted as saying. “Age shouldn’t affect you. It’s just like the size of your shoes – they don’t determine how you live your life! You’re either marvelous or you’re boring, regardless of your age.”

From a talent perspective, Morrissey is marvelous. Check out his

Ocean Casino show and you’ll see why. (500 Boardwalk, AC; Tickets/ info: https://www.theoceanac.com/ entertainment/ovation-hall).

Chicago Rocks Hard Rock Live: While we were bummed for missing Lenny Kravitz at Ocean last weekend (one of those medical things), Sue and I did catch a stellar performance by rock legends Chicago last Saturday night at Hard Rock Live. The 10-piece band still features three original members from when they formed in 1967, including now-80-year-old pianist/vocalist, Robert Lamm. They’ve done a great job of incorporating new members into the fold – most notably, current vocalist Neil Donell, former singer for a Chicago tribute band, Brass Transit – who joined them in 2018 and sounds remarkably like original Chicago singer, Peter Cetera.

Chicago performed two solid, smokin’, hour-long sets of all their greatest hits (too many to list here). One of the best shows I’ve experienced since moving back to Atlantic City in 2022.

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.

Morrissey (full name Steven Patrick Morrissey) launched a solo career in 1988 following the breakup of the Smiths the year before.

Photo by Sam-Esty-Rayner

Be a Tailgating Legend This Football Season

It’s tailgating season and whether you’re gathering in your backyard or in the stadium parking lot, you know that some of the best times happen in the hours leading up to the game, especially when there are tasty bites in the mix.

The first recipe is for Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers . This legendary game day recipe is one your friends and family will remember you for.

Prep Time: 30 Minutes Cook Time: 1 Hour

Servings: 10

Ingredients:

● 10 jalapeños

● 1 pound ribeye, sliced thin

● 10 slices of bacon

Instructions:

1. Slice your jalapeños length-wise and remove the seeds, set aside.

2. Sauté onion and bell peppers in a skillet on medium heat, adding 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.

● 1 red bell pepper, chopped

● 1 green bell pepper, chopped

● 1/2 yellow onion, chopped

● 4 slices of mozzarella

● 4 slices of provolone

● 1 ounce Worcestershire sauce

● 3 tablespoons BBQ rub

● Salt and pepper

● Bear Mountain BBQ Chophouse Blend Pellets

3. When caramelized, remove the veggies and add in the thinly sliced ribeye. Pro tip: To get thinner slices, freeze ribeye for 1 hour to firm.

4. Sear on medium to high heat and add the veggies back in, plus 4 slices of mozzarella and 4 slices of provolone until the cheese is melted.

5. Add mixture to your jalapeño slices, wrap with bacon and top with your favorite BBQ rub.

6. Place on wire rack and into your smoker at 375 degrees F for 1 hour. Remove when your bacon is nice and crispy and enjoy your game day appetizer!

For the ultimate snack to go along with a cold beer, try this recipe for Sweet & Spicy Bacon Wrapped Hot Pockets.

Prep Time: 15 Minutes

Cook Time: 45 Minutes Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

● 1 box of Pepperoni Pizza Hot Pockets

● 1 pack of bacon

● Honey

● 1 jalapeño – sliced

● Derek Wolf | Big Bad BBQ AleSpiceology

● Bear Mountain BBQ Chef's Choice Blend Pellets

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to 350 degrees F with Bear Mountain BBQ Chef’s

Choice pellets.

2. Wrap each frozen Hot Pocket in a slice of thin bacon and place on a wire rack.

3. Drizzle honey over the Hot Pockets and place jalapeño slices on top.

4. Dust your Hot Pockets with Derek Wolf | Big Bad BBQ Ale - Spiceology or other BBQ rub.

5. Smoke for 45 minutes or until bacon is nice and crispy.

6. When done, top with more honey and enjoy!

After more than 65 years, Paul Anka still does it his way

By Chuck Darrow

Why do we love Paul Anka?

It may be because he is still a vital show business force after a career that started when he helped create the teen-pop-idol template in the late 1950s with such hits as “Diana” and the TikTok-embraced “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” and which has touched parts of eight decades and included collaborations with a roster of show business immortals including Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson. Or maybe it’s because he composed two of the most iconic of all post-World-War-II pieces of music: The theme song of the Johnny Carson-hosted “Tonight Show” and the

Sinatra signature, “My Way.”

Or maybe it’s because he’s still doing things his way, regardless of what anyone else may think. Take, for instance, the current advertising campaign for Cologard, the do-ityourself colon-cancer test whose TV commercials feature new lyrics set to “My Way.” It has certainly engendered some consternation among Sinatra-philes (at least a few that I know) who insist using the tune for such a purpose somehow demeans and/or devalues the beloved anthem of defiance and pride.

“They called me up. They sent me a storyboard. I gave some stupid number [when the Cologard people asked for a price to license the song], not thinking they'd pay it. They did,” chuckled the 83-year-old legend during a recent phone chat occasioned by his Nov. 16 engagement at Ocean Casino Resort.

“I respected where they were going metaphorically, in a sense, with it and what the product was. It didn't bother me. I don't care. You know, that song's getting used left and right all the time, and always will. I don't

think it's hurt the song in any way. I mean, people still love it. They still sing it when people are dying or, or dead or in prison.

“No, it doesn't bother me. It's just business. Just business.”

Much more dear to Anka than any TV commercial these days is “Paul Anka: His Way,” a film documentary that recently premiered at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival. It covers his life before the Ottawa, Ontario native became a pop sensation with the July, 1957 release of “Diana” four weeks before his 16th birthday (he originally had his sights set on a journalism career), as well as the multiple paths his show biz career has encompassed:

Singing and composing music are but two facets of his professional life; he’s also a major behind-the scenes player, having discovered superstar crooner (and fellow Canadian) Michael Buble. He’s also an actor whose credits include the 1962 World War II epic, “The Longest Day” and TV shows such as “Las Vegas” and “Gilmore Girls.”

Anka suggested he was particularly impressed by the filmmakers’ research for the project.

“They came up with some footage that I hadn't known about,” he offered. “You'll see footage in there that goes back to the Fifties. You'll see footage from certain countries. I mean, my hat's off to this team of people: young, smart, good people. They did their homework.

“I got warehouses of stuff and I got stuff everywhere. They kind of tapped into it. But they came up with stuff that I looked and went, ‘Wow! Where did you find that?’”

Not that attending the film’s premiere was an especially enjoyable experience for him.

“It was horrifying,” he admitted with a laugh. “I sat in the theater in Toronto with 2000 people, and I'm looking at myself on the screen, and I wanted to crawl out of there. I hated it. It is not my thing, man. Not my thing.

“But the audience was laughing and screaming.”

If things work out to his satisfaction, “His Way” won’t be the only documentation of Anka’s life and career.

“Now, I'm knee deep in a Broadway show,” he divulged. “We’re trying to select a writer. We've got the money and I want to get a script or it's a ‘nogo,’ because that's what it's all about. The investors really want to do it, but

I've been saying for years, unless I get a script I like, I just don't want to go in there and waste anybody's time and money.”

Anka explained the unnamed project will not be a “jukebox” musical that uses his compositions in the service of an original story, but a biographical piece.

“It's gonna take me back to when I was a 15-year-old kid,” he said of the play that will feature two actors playing him in different periods of his life. “There'll be two actors [one portraying] the kid that came down from Canada and got lucky all those earlier years, right up into working for [the organized-crime figures who ran the nightclub business in the 1950s, ’60s and ‘70s] the [Sinatra-led] ‘Rat Pack, and then the evolution into what I did after.’

“It'll be all my music and it's going to be all of that with stuff that a lot of people don't know. But it's about the story.

“If we're using ‘Jersey Boys’ [the smash Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons-based hit] as the [standard], from my point of view, it's great music. But it would never have gotten what it has in terms of its success without a great script. You gotta have the story. And they did a great job getting that story done.

”If I don't get [a writer] that gets it, I'm not interested. I'm really not.” For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.

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

S er ving great homemade meals since 1977!

Members-only dining clubs thriving at the shore

By Bruce Klauber

The idea of the private dining club is nothing new. One of the oldest of these organizations, simply called “The Club,” dates back to the mid-1700s. In an April 2019 article in Food Magazine, writer Ward Hazell detailed the history of the private dining club.

“In 1764, writer Samuel Johnson and artist Joshua Reynolds set up their own dining club for artistic and literary gentlemen,” Hazell wrote. “With the aim of providing good food and even better conversation, the group originally consisted of fewer than a dozen men, all of whom were called ‘good fellows.’

“The club met in the Turk’s Head Tavern in Soho, London, and members ate a hearty supper followed by lots of talking and drinking. Membership continued to grow, much to the disgust of the founding members. They were particularly annoyed by the intake of politicians, which seemed to put the founders off their food.”

That’s probably not an issue in today’s clubs, especially the ones in existence in the Atlantic City/Ocean City area.

One would think that, with the hundreds of dining options available in this region, the very idea of a private dining club just doesn’t make sense today. But that’s not the case.

Classic private dining clubs like Philadelphia’s Pyramid Club and Messina Social Club, offer features that most restaurants do not, including exclusivity and the relative ease of making reservations. Furthermore, members of such clubs frequently decide who will be admitted as a member and who will not, what chef

will be hired and what food that chef will put on the menu.

When it comes to dining out, Ocean City’s situation is unique. The city has been a dry town since 1879 and a liquor license has never been issued. Furthermore, the city ordinance says that “restaurants are not permitted to allow customers to bring their own alcohol.” This, obviously, has long been an issue for restaurants and diners who want to enjoy an adult beverage with their meal.

One way around this is the establishment of membership-only private clubs which permit members the BYOB privilege within an already-existing restaurant. Ocean City establishments have been using the private club concept for several years.

“In recent years, dinner clubs have begun to appear, offering annual memberships that allow customers to bring and consume their own wine,” notes a 2020 piece in the Ocean City Sentinel. “The participating

restaurants can host club members on certain nights, or hold the club in rooms only accessible to members. Exclusive clubs charging member fees have legally circumvented the city’s stringent laws regarding alcohol.”

Despite protests, private clubs continue to operate, and continue to operate successfully.

Dockside Dinner Club

Ocean City’s Dockside Dinner Club, within The Dockside Kitchen restaurant, is described by the proprietors as “Ocean City NJ’s only bay front dining experience that offers private memberships, so guests can BYOB while enjoying our delicious seafood entrees. Memberships are exclusive, on a per party, per year basis.” Family memberships are $250 annually.

The Epicurean Ocean Club

The Port-O-Call is a Boardwalk hotel in Ocean City that has a dining room, Adelene, which is open to the public, but also houses the seasonal private eating club called the Epicurean Ocean Club. The promo material says that the EOC, as it is called, “is a casual, members-only club for people looking for an unparalleled private dining experience in Ocean City.”

Although the EOC actually happens within the hotel’s Adelene restaurant, the $25 membership fee entitles those who join to enjoy BYOB spirits with their meals.

Supper Club 1923

Ocean City’s historic Flanders Hotel, long known as “the jewel of the southern shore,” has been around since 1923. It hasn’t always been easy, as the hotel has weathered fires, storms and more than one financial

The Log Cabin in Margate

disaster. But the Boardwalk landmark is thriving today, and has remained very much up-to-date.

In line with remaining current, the Flanders Supper Club 1923 was established in order to, as the club’s literature states, “enjoy the flexibility to compliment dinner with the adult beverage of choice.” A lifetime membership to the weekends-only club is $100.

Club Madrid

Atlantic City has no such legal issue with alcohol, so the two private eating clubs that do currently exist in the city are basically selling the exclusivity concept.

The idea of Club Madrid, within the revamped and recently reopened Angeloni’s restaurant, strives to recreate what the owners describe as “Atlantic City’s 1980s glory days.”

Now owned and operated by the owners of Atlantic City’s venerable Tony’s Baltimore Grill, reviews have been mostly enthusiastic about the club and the restaurant itself.

Sirens Bar and Grill

Sirens Bar and Grill, located in Atlantic City’s Marina District, specifically in Kammerman’s Marina, is said to have been in operation by the Kammerman Family for more than 60 years. Stacey and Chris Kammerman, who live at the marina, operate the relatively new Sirens Bar and Grill and the Carson Club.

“Sirens is a hidden gem and a favorite hangout

Membership fees range from $250 to $2,000, but posted information about just what a member gets for those fees is scant, save for the fact that members dine and drink within Angeloni’s “private area.”

Private membership is limited and there is a waiting list. The club, especially during the season, hosts a number of special events – most of them musical – is open to members only.

among the locals, with new customers usually discovering it through word of mouth,” say Stacey and Chris. “The restaurant doesn’t advertise, but frequent comments about Sirens include, ‘It's like being in Key West!’ or ‘It just has an awesome vibe!’”

“Our private club is designed to be a welcoming and happy space where members can feel appreciated and become part of an amazing community of like-minded people,” said Chris Kammerman. “By limiting membership, we can ensure intimate affairs and keep crowds to a minimum, even on the busiest summer weekends. Additionally, our boating clientele can enjoy access to

our many boat slips to dock and dine.”

The Margate Log Cabin First-time visitors to the Atlantic City area who just happen to travel on Jerome Avenue in Margate might be puzzled by what looks exactly like a log cabin. Is it a roadside attraction? An historic building of some sort? The vision of an eccentric architect?

The answer to all the above is “no.” It’s called the Margate Log Cabin because that’s exactly what it is. Beyond that, it’s a private meeting club which was established in 1935 by the Margate Fire Company as a secondary meeting place.

In 1956 it became a private club, and prospective members must be sponsored by existing members. There is live entertainment most weekends throughout the season. Membership at the Log Cabin is coveted. As of this writing, according to the website, “Membership is currently closed.”

Those who may be thinking about joining one of these clubs may be wise to heed the message in the classic television commercial: “Membership does have its privileges.”

Supper Club 1923 at the historic Flanders Hotel

Sirens overlooks the back bay

Plant-based dishes for Thanksgiving

By Christina Martin

When we look at what it means to eat healthy, one of the most important aspects of a

NOV 23

Holiday Kickoff at Mudhen

NOV 27 – JAN 1

Holiday Window Decorating Contest Display at the Wildwoods Convention Center & Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce – FREE

NOV 29 – DEC 8

Wildwoods Holiday Restaurant Week – NEW!

NOV 29

Family Holiday Beach Bonfire

NOV 29 – DEC 1

Christmas in North Wildwood – FREE

NOV 30

Wildwoods Holiday Shopping Village/ Small Business Saturday – FREE

DEC 1, 8, 15, & 22

Holidays at HenVille: Shopping Village – FREE

DEC 3

Wildwood Crest Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony – FREE

DEC 6

Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade – FREE

DEC 6

Downtown Wildwood Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – FREE

healthy diet is eating seasonally.

We know our grandparents didn’t have access to all the foods we have today. These days we can get fruits and vegetables that don’t grow locally any time of the year. Fruits and vegetables are picked unripe and travel long distances to get to our grocery shelves. In New Jersey there is still produce growing until mid November, depending on the weather.

As the weather gets colder, we should focus on foods that warm and ground us as we prepare for the cold months ahead. Root vegetables, such

DEC 6 - 7

Greater Wildwood Jaycees Downtown Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza – FREE

DEC 7

North Wildwood Tree Lighting Ceremony – FREE

DEC 7

Santa Paws in North Wildwood – FREE

DEC 7

Wildwood Holiday Spectacular Concert – NEW!

DEC 8

Holiday Tree Jubilee in Wildwood Crest

DEC 13 - 14

Wildwood’s Winter Wonderland at Holly Beach Park – FREE

DEC 14

Family Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Wildwoods Convention Center – FREE

DEC 14

Pinch the ‘GrYnch’ Boardwalk 5K Run

DEC 14 12 Pubs of Christmas

DEC 16

Wildwood Crest Holiday Light Walk – FREE

DEC 20 - 21

Wildwood’s Winter Wonderland at Holly Beach Park – FREE

as sweet potatoes, parsnips, rutabagas, radishes, turnips, carrots, onions and beets do just that. Other vegetables grown locally in New Jersey include cabbages, cauliflower, lettuces and apples. Some of our local farms are wrapping up apple and pumpkin picking season as November starts.

A seasonally healthy diet would include winter greens, root vegetables and grains. These vegetables help keep us warm in the winter months. Winter greens like kale, cabbage and collard greens provide needed vitamins and minerals. Vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, butternut and spaghetti squashes along with grains are great sources of fiber and complex carbohydrates.

Now is the time to make hearty dishes like soups, stews and roasted vegetables. The following are some of my recipes using these seasonal vegetables. They are perfect for a healthy holiday dinner or to make any time over the winter months ahead and are plant based, vegan or gluten free.

Cauliflower and Millet Mash

Ingredients:

● 4 cups thinly sliced cauliflower

● 2 cups millet, soaked overnight

● 1 clove garlic

● 1/2 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk

● Parsley, for garnish

Procedure:

In a saucepan, add cauliflower, millet, garlic, and the soaking liquid. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the millet is soft and creamy. Remove from heat and drain half the cooking liquid. Blend with a stick blender, adding dairy-free milk or water until smooth. Garnish with mushroom onion gravy and fresh parsley.

Mushroom Onion Gravy

Ingredients:

● 3 lbs. mixed mushrooms, sliced

● 1 onion, sliced thin

● 1 tablespoon olive oil

● 1 tablespoon fresh thyme

● 2 quarts vegetable stock

● Cornstarch

Procedure:

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and onions. Cook for 3-5 minutes until tender and browned. Add thyme. Cook for an additional 3 minutes. Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Thicken with cornstarch as desired.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Ingredients:

● Root vegetables such as beets, sweet potatoes, carrots, turnips, and parsnips, peeled and diced

● Olive oil

● Balsamic vinegar

● Salt

● Pepper

● Optional: herbs like thyme or rosemary

Procedure:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a sheet tray with parchment paper. Dice root vegetables, then coat with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Spread on the tray and roast for 25-30 minutes, until fork-tender.

Harvest Salad

Ingredients:

● 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced

● 1 lb. arugula or greens of choice

● Chopped olives

● 1/4 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)

● 1/4 cup pumpkin or sesame seeds, or both (optional)

● 1 large orange, supremed (reserve juice)

● 1/2 lemon, juiced

● Salt

● Pepper

● Olive oil

Procedure:

In a large bowl, toss fennel, arugula, olives, nuts, and seeds. Dress with orange and lemon juice, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Feel free to personalize with favorite greens, olives, nuts, or vegan feta.

Cranberry Chutney

Ingredients:

● 12 oz. fresh cranberries

● 2/3 cup organic sugar

● 1/4 cup cider vinegar

● 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

● 1/2 teaspoon salt

● 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

● 2 cinnamon sticks

● orange zest (approximately 1 teaspoon)

Procedure:

Place all ingredients in a small pot, reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-

12 minutes uncovered, stirring occasionally. Remove cinnamon sticks. Grate some fresh orange zest over top and stir to combine.

If you do not want to cook there are a few places at the Jersey Shore that can provide plant-based vegan Thanksgiving meals, sides and desserts.

Greens and Grains in Northfield and Mays Landing offers their annual Thanksgiving meal. Ordering is open until Nov. 24. Pick

up for Atlantic County is at the Mays Landing location.

The meal feeds up to three people and includes savory herb stuffing, mashed potatoes, golden herb gravy, green bean casserole, vegan turk’y cutlets, cranberry sauce and pumpkin spice cupcakes.

If you are craving Thanksgiving food early try Greens and Grains vegan Gobbl’r! Toasted bun with a crispy turk’y patty, housemade mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy and topped with cranberry sauce.

Beneficial Bakery in Egg Harbor Township offers desserts and breads, vegan, gluten free and made with fermented veggies. Thanksgiving

online store is available with pickup on Tuesday, Nov. 26.

Vegan Chub in Hammonton offer delivery in Atlantic County of items like lasagna, turkey with gravy, pot pie, side dishes and desserts.

Chef Christina Martin is a dedicated chef educator, passionate advocate for healthy eating, and mother. Christina’s expertise has been spotlighted in Independent Restaurateur Magazine and she has been awarded 2024 Chef Educator of the Year from the Professional Chef Association of South Jersey.

Keeping Good Spirits for over 85 Years!

Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, November 7

Atlantic City

Bar One at Resorts

Karaoke Night w/ DJ Joe

8 p.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Council Oak at Hard Rock

Adriana Markano

5:30 – 9 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

DJ Gabor Kiss

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

Split Decision

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Karaoke Night w/ Mike Dempsey

8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

Beth Tinnon

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Friday, November 8

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Jeremy Oren

6 p.m.

Dominick Martino

9:15 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

90’s Night Dance Party

8 p.m.

247 S. New York Ave.

Bar One at Resorts

DJ Gary

9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Council Oak at Hard Rock

Paul Johns Trio

6 – 9:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Hard Rock Café

Dueling Pianos

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Originaire Duo

7 p.m.

The Benderz

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Megan Knight Duo 6 p.m.

Fine Italian Cuisine

Lauralea & Tripp Fabulous

10 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Garden State Groove

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Kicking Sunrise

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Wave at Golden Nugget

Flashback Friday: Winslow: The Eagles Tribute

9 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Topgolf at Ocean Casino

Hot Country Karaoke w/ Cowboy Kevin

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Sensamotion

5 p.m.

Jumper

9:30 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Egg Harbor Township

The Roost Pub & Grill

Chris Yoder Band

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr. Margate

Bocca

CJ Sooy

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s

Stephanie Owens

8 – 11 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Millville

Levoy Theatre

Nick Carter: Who I Am Tour

8 p.m.

126-130 N. High St.

Smithville

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Chad Miller

7 – 10 p.m.

1 N. New York Rd.

Somers Point

Crab Trap

Bob Mower Duo

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Bar One at Resorts

DJ Gary

9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Council Oak at Hard Rock

Dan Jost Trio

6 – 9:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Hard Rock Café

Dueling Pianos

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Adam Holcombe Duo

7 p.m.

Audio Riot

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Bar None Band

5 p.m.

Big House

10 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

No Standards

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Steal the Sky

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Topgolf at Ocean Casino

Patty & Melanie

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino

The Original Copy

9:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 9

Atlantic City

1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino

Elsa Carlson

6 p.m.

Jeremy Oren

9:15 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Anchor Rock Club

Friends of Jerry: Tribute to the Grateful Dead

8 p.m.

247 S. New York Ave.

500 Boardwalk

Margate

Bocca

Jim Shaw

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s

Lisa Bouchelle

8 – 11 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

↘Continued on 60

Bar None Band, Photo By Steven Parks

Smithville

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Smokey Starr

7 – 10 p.m.

1 N. New York Rd.

Somers Point

Crab Trap

Doug Jennings

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Live at the Fillmore: The Definitive Concert Tribute to the Original Allman Brothers Band

3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

217 E. Main St.

Waretown

Albert Music Hall

Veterans Day Show w/ Libby

Prison Minstrels, The Closser Smith Project, Granny & The Boys, Nill Felix, The Wild Grit

6 – 9 p.m.

131 Wells Mills Rd.

Sunday, November 10

Atlantic City

Bar One at Resorts

DJ Eric

3 – 8 p.m.

DJ Proud

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Council Oak at Hard Rock

Chris Farrell

5:30 – 9 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Dueling Pianos

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Kono Nation

4 – 7:30 p.m.

The Event Horizon

8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Josie Kelly’s Traditional Irish Session

1 – 4 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Barbara Lin Band

7:30 p.m.

217 E. Main St.

Monday, November 11

Atlantic City

Bar One at Resorts

DJ Proud

7 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Yani

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

DJ Trivia hosted by Starshield

7 – 9 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Gregory’s

Tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series

7 – 8:30 p.m.

900 Shore Rd.

Tuesday, November 12

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Patty & Bugzy

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony Band

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Josie Kelly’s

DJ Ken

5 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Wednesday, November 13

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Michael Stevens

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Lost in Paris

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Margate

Bocca

Bob Sterling & The Bocca Boys

7 – 10 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Open Mic Night hosted by Blue Eagle

7 – 11 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

Doug Jennings

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Josie Kelly’s

Jimmy Brogan Acoustic

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Events subject to change.

Lisa Bouchelle

Enjoy a Thanksgiving feast at newly renovated Harbor Pines

Indulge in classic comfort foods in the recently updated clubhouse

Harbor Pines Golf Club is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner in style with a festive buffet in their beautifully renovated clubhouse, which now offers an enhanced indoor dining experience. The Thanksgiving dinner buffet will be held on Thursday, Nov. 28, from 1- 5 p.m.

The Thanksgiving buffet at Harbor Pines will showcase a menu full of classic holiday dishes, including traditional roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes and savory stuffing, alongside their classic Virginia ham. Guests can also look forward to fall-inspired offerings such as butternut squash soup, harvest salad and sides like sweet potatoes, mac & cheese, mushroom risotto and fresh seasonal vegetables. Desserts will feature a variety of pies, mini sweets and other autumn treats. The Thanksgiving buffet is priced at $54.99 for adults, $49.99 for members, and $25.99 for children

ages 3 to 12. Tax and gratuity are not included. With the holiday expected to draw high demand, reservations are strongly recommended.

The recent renovations at Harbor Pines have revitalized the dining and event spaces, creating a fresh, elegant ambiance ideal for holiday gatherings and special events. A standout feature is The Roost, the club’s new pub and grill, offering cozy seating, warm lighting, and scenic views of the golf course. With its inviting atmosphere and signature dishes, The Roost provides the perfect setting for guests to enjoy a casual meal or gather with friends for drinks after a round of golf.

Harbor Pines Golf Club is open to the public and is located at 500 St. Andrews Drive, Egg Harbor Township, NJ, 08234. For more information or to secure a table, call (609) 9270006, extension 23, or visit https:// www.harborpines.com.

Remembering when the Comedy Stop kept AC laughing

By Chuck Darrow

Atlantic City’s century-plus as a show business capital has resulted in numerous venues that, while longgone, remain part of Our Town’s collective culture and consciousness.

Among them are Steel Pier, which, for decades, hosted superstar performers from John Philip Sousa and Rudy Vallee to Frank Sinatra and Abbott & Costello to Ricky Nelson and The Supremes; the 500 Club, where, in 1946, a couple of unknowns named Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis launched themselves into pop-culture immortality and Club Harlem where, during a time of both legal and de facto segregation in America, integrated audiences came together to enjoy and celebrate legends like Sammy Davis Jr., Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Sam Cooke and Ray Charles.

There’s one defunct performance space that isn’t quite as historically resonant as these, but perhaps should be. That would be the Comedy Stop Café & Cabaret, which operated inside what is now called Tropicana

Atlantic City for more than three decades.

The Comedy Stop was opened on the main level of the Trop’s original (North) tower in 1983 by Kephart & Corti Productions. It would remain in that location until 2004, when it moved to The Quarter, the gaming hall’s Havana-in-the1950s-themed retail, dining and entertainment complex. Unlike most nightclubs, the Comedy Stop, which ended AyCee operations in 2015, never had a “dark” night; shows were staged Monday through Sunday.

I couldn’t wait to get the heck out of there).

The laugh lounge was located in what was essentially a box--ringed by an elevated seating section--that could accommodate 165 patrons. It could definitely start to feel claustrophobic if one sat in it long enough (as happened to me the night I judged a standup-comedy contest featuring 32-—count ‘em—32 wannabe Seinfelds and Carlins. By comic number 15 or so, I felt the walls beginning to close in on me. By the time contestant 32 had mercifully wrapped up,

But what the Stop may have lacked in comfort and luxury, it more than compensated for thanks to Kephart’s uncanny eye for spotting up-and-coming talent. The roster of performers who hit the Stop’s postage-stamp stage in the 1980s and 1990s contains some pretty formidable names, among them Tim Allen; Rosie O’Donnell; Lewis Black; Drew Carey; the late, great Richard Jeni; Kevin James and Ray Romano.

On a personal note, late one Monday afternoon in early 1996, I met Romano for an interview at what was known then as the Top Of the Trop, a cocktail lounge on the top (20th) floor of the hotel tower. After we exchanged greetings, I innocuously asked Romano—who had become a favorite comedian of mine due, in large part, to previous Comedy Stop gigs—what was new. He blew me away with his reply, which was that just hours earlier that day, CBS had given the go-ahead to his series,

“Everybody Loves Raymond” which, of course, became one of the most popular and beloved sitcoms of all time.

But that was the way it went at the Stop: There were too-many-to-count performers who (usually deservedly) faded into oblivion, having missed fame and fortune by light years. But the joy was in seeing future comedy giants on their way to the pinnacle of show biz success (which, of course, was usually unpredictable while they were appearing there; I’m proud to say I called Romano’s stardom the first time I saw him at the club).

The Comedy Stop’s unprecedented run ended in 2014 (a Las Vegas outpost operated at the recently imploded Tropicana from 1990 until 2009). Its legacy exists in the current comedy operations at Tropicana’s Atlantic City Comedy Club, AC Jokes at Resorts Casino-Hotel and the Borgata Comedy Club. But the Comedy Stop will always occupy a special place in Atlantic City’s Casino Era story.

Making your homebuyer’s wish list

Real Estate Matters

By Elisa Jo Eagan

There are so many things to think about when doing a home search. How many bedrooms and how many bathrooms do you need? Do you want stairs or are you hoping to have everything on one level? Of course, there are the all-important questions of flooring, countertops and light fixtures. But what else should you be thinking about and how can you build a smarter wish list that really adds value?

Getting started

When you start perusing listings online, you are probably spending most of your time looking at aesthetics such as paint color, finishes, fixtures and other “shiny objects.” In addition, you are probably thinking about conveniences like a second

home office, a fenced backyard and space for a playroom.

It is natural to think about those personal preferences when choosing a home, but a smarter wish list takes into account those “behind the wall” items that can either add value or cost you big money. In addition, you will want to consider whether your favorite wish list items will be worth the cost when and if you decide to sell your home in the years ahead.

Neighborhood

Think beyond paint color and home style when creating your wish list and include the following elements in your calculations of the “perfect” home.

There is a reason that the mantra for real estate professionals is “location, location, location.” The same home in two different neighborhoods can fetch two wildly different prices. It is important to make sure that you understand the impact of a neighborhood on your enjoyment of the home.

One piece of advice that you may have heard is, “Buy the smallest home in the best neighborhood that you can afford.” While you may be yearning for a fourth bedroom or a huge bonus room, it may be worth

it to choose a smaller home if the neighborhood is ideal. In addition, you may want to consider an up-and-coming market rather than one that is already filled with amenities. Owning a home in a newly desirable neighborhood may mean big appreciation over the next few years.

Market-appropriate extras

Do you have any unusual features on your wish list? Maybe you are

longing for a pool or extensive exterior spaces like an outdoor kitchen or oversized deck. Maybe you are thinking of adding a large addition or a guest house once you close on your ideal property. Those are all great ideas, but will they fit the market you will be living in?

It is important to make sure that any improvements you plan or unusual features you require are in keeping with other homes in your neighborhood. Otherwise, you could

find yourself trying to sell a home that is so unusual, outsized, or downright odd that you will turn off potential buyers and lose money on the sale.

Maintenance savers

We know everybody’s focused on granite countertops and hardwood floors, but it is a good idea to think about all of those less flashy elements that add value to your home. A new roof can cost you thousands of dollars, so if you have to choose between the ugly kitchen counters with a new roof or the gorgeous granite with an old one, take the new roof or ask for a closing cost credit towards a new roof from the seller to be given at the time of at time of settlement if possible.

In addition, look for easy-care outdoor hardscapes and exterior materials to save on maintenance costs, especially if you live in an area where you experience a lot of rain or snow. By focusing on elements that are heartier and easier to maintain, you will save time and money year after year – more than enough money, in fact, to pay for some of those fancy wish list items.

Updated systems

Similarly, new appliances, HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems save you money on maintenance, replacement and the cost to operate. Just make sure that the homeowners have all of the paperwork so that you know when the systems were installed and that they are the right size and quality for the space. If in doubt, talk to your home inspector for additional information and insights.

Improvements you can make

What items are worth overlooking in order to add your own value to the home? Here are some wish list items you can cross off in favor of making your own easy fixes after closing.

What is one of the lowest cost, highest-return investments you can make in improving your home’s value? According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), tree care offers 100 percent return on investment and adding mature trees is a low-cost way to boost your home’s value. In fact, a great lawn and an upgraded exterior door are among the most cost-effective, highest return on your investment (ROI) improvements you can make.

Paint color

You have seen those HGTV homebuyers complain about the paint color and rolled your eyes, right? If you find a house that has great bones but a terrible paint job, get excited! You can quickly improve the home’s aesthetics and value with new paint. And the best part? You can pick out the colors yourself to exactly in what you want.

Finishes and fixtures

Outdated light fixtures, mismatched switch plates and old-fashioned faucets are definite turn-offs. However, if the home has been well-maintained otherwise, these easy-to-swap features give you the opportunity to add big value at a low cost. Take a weekend and switch up everything or make the changes a little at a time. Whichever works for your budget and timeline, you will experience a sense of accomplishment and a hefty return on your investment.

Your wish list is just that: yours. It is up to you to decide what matters most to you and your family. But if you are looking to make budget-friendly decisions, it is important to look past the bright and shiny to the solid and secure.

Home is where you and your family share love and make treasured memories together that will last a lifetime. Making the right decisions in the beginning can pay dividends into the future.

Happy Veterans Day

Happy Veterans Day in honor of all our military men and women who honorably serve or previously served and sacrificed for our country. May God bless them all and their families. And God bless America, especially my son, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Michael P. Kelly II, currently serving as an active duty guardsmen with our own AC Jersey Devils, the 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard.

We are grateful that he and his team returned safely from their deployment to Saudi Arabia earlier this year and that they are home safe here with us to celebrate Thanksgiving and

the holidays this year with family and friends. May God continue to protect and keep them safe as they serve our country.

For real estate information and advice, contact Elisa Jo Eagan, the “Real Estate Godmother,” at 609703-0432. Learn more at www. therealestategodmother.com.

For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan "The Real Estate Godmother" (609)703-0432 and Remember..."There's No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!"

Balancing the weight of the world

By Courtney McLaughlin, LCSW, CDP

In the Information Age, our computers, smartphones, and other devices keep us constantly connected to the internet, making our lives easier and more efficient. Yet, this access can be overwhelming, especially with the nonstop flow of news and social media. The news is rarely positive, and with increasing coverage of global events, it can sometimes feel like the world is falling apart. Whether you’re grappling with the lingering impact of the pandemic, disturbed by reports of gun violence in schools, or feeling pressured by election-year coverage, the nonstop stream of information can take a toll on mental health. It may feel like you have to choose between staying informed and maintaining your well-being. So, how can you manage when it all feels like too much?

Limit your consumption

Around-the-clock media coverage can lead us to spend a disproportionate amount of time on troubling information. Setting boundaries, such as watching the news for a set time each day or turning it off when it becomes repetitive, can help conserve mental and emotional energy.

Seek balanced perspectives

Most media outlets have their own angles, often with sensationalized headlines to attract viewers. Sometimes this leads to skewed narratives. Consider seeking more objective perspectives, such as nonpartisan news sources, or doing a bit of research to distinguish between relevant facts and sensationalism.

Avoid echo chambers

While talking to like-minded people can be comforting, it can also fuel anger or reinforce certain viewpoints, which may increase feelings of overwhelm. Engaging with different perspectives can help provide a more balanced understanding of complex issues.

Consider the personal impact

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try asking, “How does this affect my

life right now?” This can help bring your focus back to things within your control. If an event does impact you, consider what actions you can take. If the answer is “nothing,” take time to process your emotions.

Take action

When world events feel daunting, look for small ways to make a difference. Concerned about a tragedy? Donate time or resources to organizations supporting those affected. Worried about the state of the country? Contact your representatives. Feeling anxious? Seek out expert insights and stories of people making a positive impact.

Look for positive news

When headlines feel overwhelmingly negative, seek out sources dedicated to positive stories, like The Good News Network or Yes! Media.

Take personal time

When things start to feel overwhelming, focus on your own world. Do something relaxing, spend time

with loved ones, or disconnect from devices. Making this a regular practice can build resilience, helping you handle stress better when you reconnect.

As our connectivity makes the world feel smaller and its problems seem bigger, it’s essential to protect your peace. Taking care of yourself, setting boundaries, and seeking support can help. Lean into the positives of connectivity by reaching out to others, learning something new, or exploring interests that bring you joy. And remember: stay out of the comments section—it’s where the trolls live.

Courtney McLaughlin, LCSW, CDP, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Dementia Practitioner at Brownstone Center for Wellness, a mental health counseling practice in Northfield. Contact her at CourtneyM@ brownstonewellnesscenter.net or 609-833-1644.

How to navigate raising puppies and toddlers together

By Heidi Clayton

The youngest dog in my house right now is my 7-month-old baby, Kabuki. She has the benefit of living with someone who has built a business on training dogs, and yet I still do not trust that she wouldn’t knock an over excited child if the situation presented itself. That is not because she is in the least bit a mean puppy, but at her age, she lacks the emotional maturity to control her excitement. Impulse control in puppies takes time and training to develop.

Often in my business, I meet families that get a puppy while raising a baby or toddler and complain that the puppy is “rough” with little humans. It is important to realize that when bringing a puppy into the home where you are also raising small babies or toddlers that you are basically bringing another infant into the home. This infant does not speak our language and

has an entirely different set of rules on how and what play and interaction looks like.

The internet may have you convinced that the babies and puppies just naturally coexist in harmony with all of the cute pictures of kids climbing on dogs; dog trainers will tell you that is most often not the case. Puppies and small children can exist together for sure, BUT, placing unreasonable behavioral expectations on a small puppy will always lead to frustration and trouble. Raising the two together will take time and patience.

Because puppies and dogs can pay with their lives in some cases, I firmly believe that children under 7 should not be left alone with them unsupervised. Things can go south very quickly and more often than not, all of the bite cases I have worked with that involve a child, there were cues missed that could have prevented the situation. As hard as it is to teach a puppy boundaries with the baby or toddler, it is equally as hard if not impossible to teach a baby or toddler how to behave around a wiggly, excited puppy.

Here are some rules to follow to ensure everyone is safe.

Puppies regardless of their size lack the emotional maturity it takes to not react to a baby or toddler who is cry-

ing, excited or running around. Teaching your puppy to not knock a toddling baby over is very hands on. While you are tempted to have them loose together, be reasonable and consider if you can actually manage both watching the baby AND rewarding the puppy for sitting calmly and settled near the child. What can you effectively manage if baby toys that rattle and make noise get the puppy overstimulated and cause them to grab them from the baby's hands? Can you manage watching your baby or toddler learning to walk or crawl and reward your young puppy for not following them and knocking them over? This is a common issue with toddlers running around, making exciting noises resulting in the puppy chasing and knocking them down and/ or nipping their clothes or skin when overstimulated. Teaching a puppy impulse control and not doing those things is a process that takes both time and effort and success coincides with them maturing mentally.

When you can absolutely focus on both the child and the puppy you should always have treats on hand to reward the puppy for calm behavior. Yelling at the puppy to get down or stop it while they are jumping and overstimulated verbally reinforces the unwanted behavior. If your child starts

to cry as a result of being knocked over, this can also lead to the puppy getting overstimulated and jumping higher and harder. It is much more effective to reward the puppy when they are settled. Before letting the puppy loose with the baby or toddler, consider how you will manage if the puppy gets over excited. Do you have enough hands to calm both the puppy and the baby?

Raising a puppy alongside your children can be a wonderful experience for all involved. But remember the process is a marathon not a sprint so please do not ask for too much from your puppy as it’s unfair and unreasonable.

Any questions please feel from 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

Avoid these common pitfalls in retirement planning

By Eric Reich

Ioften tell clients that when it comes to investing, the way up is a lot easier than the way down. On the way up, low-cost, well-diversified portfolios can help get you to the goal. In most cases, there aren’t a ton of other factors involved in achieving wealth. Retirement (the way down), however, is very different. This is when planning becomes crucial. This week, let’s explore a few of the areas of planning that may be a cause for concern for near-retirees.

1. Underestimating costs

I cringe whenever I hear things like “retirees need 40-60% of their pre-retirement income during retirement.” While that might be true of latter-stage retirees (15-plus years into retirement), who have little retirement assets, it is certainly not true

of good savers. The average retiree we see typically spends 100-120% of their pre-retirement income in the first few years of retirement! Why? Because now they have the free time to travel and dine out that they didn’t have before they retired. After a few years, the novelty of retirement can wear off and expenses may start to drop. Maybe you’ve taken bucket-list trips, paid for the weddings, etc. Then eventually expenses after 10-plus years into retirement may be lower, but only until the last stage of retirement when medical expenses start to rise. The point is, don’t assume your expenses in retirement will be lower. For many, this is simply not the case.

2. Assuming retirement age

Since the early 2000s, the intended retirement age of the average worker has held steady at age 65. The problem is that, in none of those years, has the average age of retirement actually been 65. Instead, that retirement age fluctuated between age 58 (2005-2007) to a high of age 63 in 2021. At no point was the average age even within two years of age 65. This can present a major problem with your retirement plans. Two less years of working means two less

years of savings and two more years of spending than intended. This problem therefore has a compounding effect. The No. 1 reason (34%) for early retirement was health problems. This was followed by layoffs (29%). While you might intend to retire at age 65, you need a contingency plan in the event that you are forced to retire early.

3. Working in retirement

47% of pre-retirees plan to ease into retirement. The reality is that only 20% actually do. A full 53% never work again, and even those that intend to keep working part-time, only 6% of retirees actually do. More people retire than work full-time jobs (8%) then end up working part time.

4. Early retirement leads to early Social Security claiming

The earlier people retire, the more likely they are to claim Social Security benefits before they attain Full Retirement Age (FRA). This can lead to a permanent reduction in fixed income throughout your lifetime. For some retirees, I advocate taking Social Security early, but for those with limited assets, this is rarely the case. 66% of new Social Security claims are made

prior to reaching FRA, and only 12% wait beyond FRA to maximize their benefits.

Next week, we will continue this discussion of retirement pitfalls with a growing problem (no pun intended) of not taking IRA distributions until you are forced through required minimum distributions.

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.

J e s s H i m m e l M e d i u m s h i p & O r a c l e R e a d i n g s M a n d e e E l a m A n g e l i c T a r o t & C o n s c i o u s C o a c h i n g

U s e C o d e

U R S A L O C A L 1 0 t o s a v e 1 0 % o n a 6 0m i n u t e A s t r o l o g y R e a d i n g w i t h U r s u l a , A u t h o r o f T h e C o s m i c

U r s u l a D u f f y A s t r o l o g y & A r o m a t h e r a p y

C o n n e c t i o n W e e k l y H o r o s c o p e s ! w w w S e a G o d d e s s H e a i n g A r t s c o m

a l i n g C i r c l e s a n d L I V E R e a d i n g s e v e r y T u e s d a y a t 1 1 : 3 0 a m o n o u r F A C E B O O K P A G E !

All American

PARADE FLAG STARS STRIPES FREEDOM APPLEPIE HOTDOG VOTE

VETERAN PATRIOT BALDEAGLE RED WHITE BLUE

DEMOCRACY LIBERTY FIREWORKS

A. What has a mouth, but cannot eat; moves, but has no legs; and has a bank, but cannot put money in it?

B. A boy is walking down the road with a doctor. While the boy is the doctor’s son, the doctor is not the boy’s father. Then who is the doctor?

C. Your parents have six sons including you and each son has one

sister. How many people are in the family?

SHORE FUNNY

Political Signs Of The Times

D. The third room, because lions starving for years would be long dead!

The doctor is the boy’s mother. C. Nine. Two parents, six sons, and one daughter. All of them have one sister (not six sisters).

D. A man condemned to death has the option of picking one of the mentioned three rooms. The first room is a furnace filled with flames. The second has armed men with loaded guns, while the third has lions starving for years. Which one should the man choose? ANSWERS

SUDOKU

Solution on page 78

ACROSS

1. Model material

6. Bro, e.g.

9. Babysitter's nightmare

13. In the company of 14. ____ out a living

15. Man's best friend?

16. Russian author, master of grotesque

17. Lilliputian

18. Diary note

19. *1950-1953 war

21. *Where Armistice was signed

23. On a keyboard

24. Greenish blue

25. Stable diet

28. Table in Mexico

30. Adjust piano pitches

35. Hidden up a sleeve? pl.

37. "Through" in text message

39. Allegro or lento

40. I, to a Greek

41. Pico de gallo

43. Bit of smoke

44. Whale's lunch

46. Orr's score

47. Big first for a baby

48. Open

50. Way, way off

52. Infection of the eye

53. Proof of home ownership

55. They're from Mars?

57. *He wrote "God Bless America"

60. *Gulf War General

63. Fear-inspiring

64. How many if by sea?

66. Like a Harvard building?

68. Like three nursery rhyme mice

69. Mama sheep

70. Impulse transmitter

71. Hemorrhaged

72. Shiny wheel part

73. Sink hole

DOWN

1. *WWI's: "Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit-____"

2. Every which way

3. Apple's apple, e.g.

4. Sound like Wilbur

5. Radiant

6. In stitches

7. *He replaced "Armistice" with "Veterans"

8. Heavily built

9. Capital of West Germany

10. *College program

11. 4,840 square yards

12. Your, to Shakespeare

15. Planters' treat

20. Drives a getaway car, e.g.

22. First off sinking ship?

24. Auto contents

25. Japanese verse

26. It falls in the fall

27. Bigfoot's cousins

29. 1970s carpet

31. Current events program

32. Gives off

33. Cinderella's win

34. *Veterans Day flower

36. *Retail "celebration"

38. *"Aim High... Fly-Fight-Win" org.

42. *"Remember the ____!"

45. Served soup

49. Oahu greeting gift

51. VHS player button

54. Keyboard key

56. James Bond, don't say this!

57. "For Whom the ____ Tolls"

58. Cleveland, OH Lake

59. Orange peel

60. "The Charge of the Light Brigade," e.g.

61. Italy's obsolete money

62. Denim innovator

63. Flow alternative

65. *"The War to End All Wars"

67. Bear cave

Solution on page 78

THEME: VETERANS DAY

New Jersey kicks off celebration of nation’s 250th anniversary

Jump in heritage tourism expected as 2026 nears

By Dana DiFilippo, NJ Monitor

New Jersey saw more military engagements than any other state during the American Revolutionary War, was George Washington’s “home away from home” during the war, and saw scores of Continental Army soldiers and British forces fall during the Battle of Monmouth, the war’s longest skirmish.

Gov. Phil Murphy and a crowd of history buffs gathered last Friday at the site of the 1778 battle, now a state park in Manalapan, to brag about that history and New Jersey’s pivotal role in the Revolutionary War, kicking off the state’s official commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.

ration work is planned or underway at 10 Revolutionary War sites.

The state also has a series of things planned or already underway to celebrate New Jersey’s role in the American Revolution and draw history buffs here, including reenactments and living history exhibits, a series of 5K races at Revolutionary War sites, educational programs at elementary, middle and high schools, and art installations. Traveling exhibits are planned for microbreweries, libraries, senior centers, city halls, and other locations across the state

U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman and Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, who’s also New Jersey’s secretary of state, joined Murphy Friday in drumming up support for the coming celebration.

“The roots of the American Revolution are planted deep in the soil of the Garden State, and that is exactly why our administration is investing tens of millions of dollars into preserving historic treasures like the Craig House, which is just steps away from where we are standing today, or the Old Barracks right next to the state Capitol in Trenton, or Boxwood Hall in Elizabeth,” Murphy said. “In just about every corner of our state, you will find traces of the American Revolution.”

Park advocates and history buffs have long complained that the state has neglected its state parks and historic sites. Murphy said Friday that the state has invested about $30 million to spruce up its historic sites in anticipation of a spike in heritage tourism as the nation’s semiquincentennial approaches in 2026. Resto -

“This milestone recognition has been in the works so long that one of the questions Gov. Murphy asked me in my interview for the job of secretary of state was: can you, Tahesha, pronounce the word ‘semiquincentennial?’” Way said. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the Garden State to be widely recognized and visited for its significance during the American Revolution, and how the events, challenges and ideas of that time continue to help us build the more perfect union.”

Watson Coleman applauded plans to spotlight the diversity of New Jersey’s Revolutionary War history, such as the stories of Molly Pitcher, who brought water to exhausted troops and then took her husband’s place in the artillery after he fell, and the Marbleheaders, a racially integrated regiment that ferried Washington and his troops across the Delaware River.

“I’m excited we’ll have the opportunity to tell the stories that are often missing from history books,” Watson Coleman said. “These are the stories that need to be told in the coming years, and I’m glad to work with Gov. Murphy and the governors across this nation to ensure that America’s full story is told and that the young and the old, and those of all races and hues and sentiments and issues, get to know the story of this great country.”

Reenactors marched at an event on Nov. 1, 2024, at Monmouth Battlefield State Park to celebrate New Jersey’s role in the American Revolutionary War.

Let Progressive Help You!

Weekly horoscopes

By Ursula Duffy

Horoscopes for November 7 – November 13

♈ Aries: When was the last time you experienced a big shift in perspective? Another one is on the horizon, and themes may start developing this week. Adventure awaits, so embrace it with an open mind and heart.

♉ Taurus: How does other people’s “stuff” affect you? An evaluation of how much you allow others' affairs to impact you is on the way. Boundaries may need more attention and action.

♊ Gemini: What do your closest relationships teach you about yourself? This question may be on your mind more than usual in the coming weeks. Keep close those who encourage self-improvement.

♋ Cancer: Do you do something uplifting every day? Busy schedules can push personal well-being to the background. How to better prioritize self-care may become clearer.

♌ Leo: What have you created lately? The creative process fosters flow and inspiration. You may feel a nudge to dust off and rekindle an old project.

♍ Virgo: Are you happy with your living arrangements? Themes around your roots may surface, potentially leading to a move or a revamp of your space.

♎ Libra: Are you expressing your thoughts and feelings? Open communication is important in your daily life and work. New ideas about using your voice are emerging—remember, art is also a form of communication.

♏ Scorpio: When was the last time you reviewed your finances? It’s a good time to focus on your resources, whether it’s income, investments, or a household budget. Proactive changes can boost your confidence.

♐ Sagittarius: Are you the best version of yourself? Self-reflection is stirring, highlighting areas for growth. Rising to the challenge with honesty and action will lead to an even better you.

♑ Capricorn: Are you allowing enough time to rest? Restoring your energy, even when you’re not feeling depleted, is essential. Different ways to honor this process will reveal themselves.

♒ Aquarius: Do you feel it’s time to level up? Set your sights higher in any area where you see potential. Openness to change is key.

♓ Pisces: Do you love your job or career? It’s a good time to explore this question and see what insights arise. Making necessary changes to align more closely with your work can enhance personal growth.

Weekly Summary:

November brings powerful astrological energy. The third and final Mercury retrograde of 2024 begins on the 25th. As I’ve shared before, Mercury retrogrades can interrupt daily life in communication, relation -

ships, travel, technology, and finances. However, they offer opportunities to work with Mercury’s energy by slowing down, reflecting, and learning something new. Retrogrades are ideal for review, redirection, and reflection—essentially all the “re-” words. The personal and collective themes of this upcoming retrograde start this week, while those from the last retrograde in August will reach maturation. This retrograde will be in Sagittarius, which could add challenges, so extra patience with yourself and others is advised. For more insights, see the horoscope for your rising sign. If you’re unsure of your rising sign, check out my tutorial video on the Sea Goddess Healing Arts YouTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com.

Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, founder of Ursa Alchemy and founding partner/ Goddess of Operations (GOO) of Sea Goddess Healing Arts, Atlantic City, NJ. Find her services, teachings, podcast, get in touch and more at www. seagoddesshealingarts.com/ ursaalchemy

The Cosmic Connection