SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | MAY 6, 2021

Free May 6, 2021

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

More May Events Announced- 8 Riding the Revolution Railroad - 14 Business Outlook Looking Sunny- 16 A Tribute to Mum - 21 Pickleball Anyone? - 28

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ulie Wilson of Somers Point reported that Somers Point Police officers stopped to buy lemonade from her children and took the time to talk to the kids, asked them all about what they like to do and told them it was the best lemonade they ever had. After they left, another cop car showed up and said they were told that they were selling the best

lemonade around and they also purchased some. She remarked "It's not the fact that they bought lemonade, but the fact that they took the time to stop, chat with the kids and even sent another car over. It made Cruz and Mila's day. Thank you to these Somers Point police officers and all the other amazing police officers out there. We see you and we appreciate you."

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Motherhood: A Journey of Love

When I was young, I saw my Mom as the gatekeeper, the one who determined what I may or may not do. My mom kept me safe, provided everything I needed and guided my world. In the turbulent teen years, my mom was public enemy #1, well, maybe second, only to my dad who Letter from the editor was constantly "ruining my life."

At least, that's what I was thinking back then. ith Mother’s Day upSometime after college though, on us, all our attention is on the Moms my mom morphed into a confidante, in our lives. Given someone I could always trust and what Moms have endured in the last count on. A few years later, when year, we should declare it Mother's my own children were born, I felt Month, rather than day! That's what the biggest shift of all. I learned Mom’s Vibe columnist, Krystle J that no one will ever love me, and Bailey declared in our last issue. I my children as much and as unconabsolutely agree. In fact, given all ditionally as my mother. She was that mothers do, even in normal or there with each birth, feeding twin pre-pandemic times, I think it's a babies at 2 am, changing diapers great idea! and folding laundry.

When I think of Mother’s Day, A mother's love is special beof course, my own mom pops incause it is so pure. There are no to my head first. But there is so ulterior motives or rivalry. A mothmuch more. My own experiences er has her child's best interest at as a mom, all of my mom friends, heart always, often sacrificing her my husband's mom and our grandown wants and needs. Moms are mothers. It intrigues me how much often viewed as the "safe person" my own perception of what it for a child or teen to take out their means to be a mom has changed frustrations on. Children also know Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly. over the years. that moms are quick to forgive. By

W

Issue 159

Established 2016

Celebrating Life at The Southern NJ Shore Office - (609) 788-4812

Publisher - Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com Executive Editor - Cindy Christy Fertsch (609) 705-5323 shorelocalcindy@gmail.com Digital Marketing Director - Marc Berman Web Designer - Holly Martin Columnists - Charles Eberson, Dina Guzzardo, Bonnie Miller, Raymond Tyler, Dan Skeldon, Tammy Thornton, Steffen Klenk, Nancy Adler, Linda Arceo, Donald B. Kravitz, Joe Massaglia, Pete Thompson, Fred Miller, Krystle J. Bailey, Brian Cahill, Jeff Whitaker, Holly Martin

the time a child is grown, his or her mom is usually their greatest cheerleader, best friend and safety net, all in one. My mom is all of that. I hope someday my own daughters will say that about me.

When things go wrong, you can count on mom to be there. When one of my children was diagnosed with autism, my mom was t h e re eve r y step of the way.

She helped me navigate through doctor and therapist appointments and even school situations.

And when I lost my son suddenly 14 months ago, my mom was there to pick me up off the floor.

Now in a strange reversal of roles, my mom has been struggling.

She too faced the worst tragedy any mother can face, when my brother lost his battle with cancer this year. And most recently, she spent 3 months fighting for her life

against Covid-19. Boy, am I thankful she pulled through that! I hope I was there for her as much as she has always been for me.

CS Lewis wrote "Isn't it funny how day by day nothing changes , but when you look back everything is dif ferent ."

We are often so busy with the details of our lives that we don't notice the changes. My understanding and appreciation for my own mom has grown immensely throughout the seasons of our lives. The level of respect I have for all moms and especially for single moms and those facing extraordinary challenges is immense.

Wishing all the Moms, Grandmoms and Moms-to-be a very Happy Mother’s Day!

Peace & Love, Cindy

ENERGY WINDOWS, DOORS AND MORE, LLC

www.EnergyWindowsToday.com

856-497-8531 · 609-823-6034

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4

MAY 6, 2021

At the Shore Since '44

Our Outdoor Tent is Back!

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Sun. 11-7pm

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Serving our nearly famous Pork Roll, Egg and Cheese

Just like in life, looks can be also deceiving in weather forecasting Weather

By Dan Skeldon

E

veryone has a different definition of what constitutes South Jersey. Some say it begins at the Raritan River. Others say Toms River, or perhaps farther south still along the Mullica River. I heard one I really liked, that South Jersey ends where pork roll turns into Taylor Ham. But for me back in 2002, South Jersey was made up of Atlantic, Cape May, and Cumberland counties, the viewing audience of my new employer, NBC40.

Having just moved to South Jersey after four years in the Green Mountains of Vermont, I foolishly thought that my new forecasting territory, roughly from Bridgeton to Atlantic City from west to east and from Hammonton to Cape May from north to south, would be a "breeze" compared

to where I was coming from. Up in New England, I forecasted for three states (Vermont, New Hampshire, and (Upstate) New York), not three counties. In those three states, and actually one Canadian province as well, were multiple mountain ranges and valleys, a wide range of topography, that spanned an area five times the size of my new "flat as a pancake" South Jersey forecasting home.

Over the next 15 years, I would repeatedly learn (and be humbled by) how wrong my initial notion of a less challenging South Jersey forecasting assignment really was.

In fact, it took less than a year for me to realize the folly of my assumptions. Yet my education as to why weather forecasting is so often fickle, occasionally frustrating, and intricately complex continues even today, and likely will for the rest of my years.

Let's start with that big body of water just to our east, the mighty Atlantic Ocean.

On a basic level, it makes our summers cooler (near the shore) and winters milder and less harsh than those farther inland. But it fuels powerful hurricanes in the summer and major nor'easters in the winter, with the tricky rain/snow line often bisecting South Jersey, which yields tight snowfall gradients over just thirty miles. A 40-de-

gree temperature difference or a 20-inch snowfall difference are both possible on any given day, thanks to the Atlantic.

But there's also those two smaller bodies of water to our west, the adjacent Delaware Bay and the slightly more distant Chesapeake Bay. These appendages of the Atlantic can shift our winds and therefore our temperatures, cause thunderstorms both to fire up and to fizzle depending on the day, and in the winter, even produce "bay-effect" snow, albeit fairly rare.

Then there's the shape of our coastline. If you look at a map, the South Jersey shore from Cape May to Brigantine curves inwards slightly, with a more concave shape.

Meanwhile, it's an outward or convex shape to the coastline to our north across Ocean and Monmouth counties. Believe it or not, that difference can play a role weather-wise by impacting both the structure and track of storms.

Next, there's our soil, which is sandier than some of the harder and more dense, clay-based soils farther inland. That sandy Pine Barrens soil is a primary reason that some of us radiate so well on the coldest winter nights, with the coldest temperatures in the state (or even entire Mid-Atlantic) found right here in our backyard. Sandy soil also drains better as well, which is one reason we are less prone to inland flooding than other areas.

There are also the "microclimates" that can develop, based on the season, the big picture weather setup, and on location. Let me give you an example. During almost every summer, there are a handful of days, usually two or three, when a sea-breeze will set up on the Atlantic County beaches, but not on the Cape May County beaches.

A sea-breeze is normally universal for every

barrier island, but not on these days. When the winds come from a certain direction, specifically from the north-northwest (330 to 340 degrees) and blow at least 14mph, it sets up this rare exception. So on these days, I'd tell beachgoers to head south of 9th Street in Ocean City, which was always roughly and oddly the dividing line. And sure enough, Cape May County shore towns soared well into the 80s, while Absecon Island hovered in the much cooler 60s.

I've always found that the longer you live some place, the better a meteorologist and forecaster for that area you become.

Furthermore, your education never stops.

It is time and practice that allows someone to learn about all the little oddities and localized interactions that help determine the weather. While any meteorologist can give a forecast for any city on any day, experience matters. Having forecasted from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to the Finger Lakes of New York to the mountains of New England, a few years long stint at each place, I thought I had seen it all and knew it all. Then I moved to South Jersey, And Mother Nature reminded me that my schooling continues, even to this day.

Meteorologist Dan Skeldon has a degree in meteorology from Cornell University. He has forecasted the weather in South Jersey for the last 18 years, first on the former television station NBC40 and then on Longport Media radio. Dan has earned the American Meteorological Society Seal of Approval for Broadcast Meteorologists, and now does television broadcasts on WFMZTV in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley.

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Events and Happenings

Linwood CROPS Markets ▶Saturdays

from 9am-12pm Central Square 199 New Rd. Linwood Open Saturdays through May 22nd.

Learn more at facebook.com/cropsmarkets.

Scout Show at Village Greene ▶Saturday,

May 8th from 10am-5pm Historic Smithville 615 E. Moss Mill Rd. Free outdoor expo showcasing scouting activities such as archery, map and compass, camping and pinewood derby. Families can meet scout units from the South Jersey area. Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA and Venturing units are for boys and girls ages 6 to 20 years old. Families can see demonstrations, participate in scouting activities and register with a local scouting unit.

Martin Z. Mollusk Day ▶Saturday,

May 8th at 11am 9th Street Beach, Ocean City In Ocean City’s take on Groundhog Day, our crustacean mascot will seek his shadow to see if summer will come a week early.

Down on the Farm Springtime Market ▶Sundays

from 12-4pm Misty Meadow Sheep Dairy 100 Dennisville-Petersburg Rd. Petersburg

Misty Meadow’s Springtime Market is Open. Stop by on Sundays through May 16th for market vendors, farm tours, food, mini lamb camps, hayrides, petting zoo and more. Learn more at mistymeadowsheepdairy.com.

Modern Muscle Car Invasion ▶Saturday,

May 8th from 12-5pm Ocean City Boardwalk from 5th14th Streets Modern Muscle Cars will be displayed on the boardwalk between 12-5pm. For more information, visit modernmusclecarinvasion.com or email blinkerfluidproductions@gmail. com.

Senior Dance Society ▶Tuesdays

from 7:30-10pm Somers Point Fire Co. #1 437 Bethel Rd. Somers Point Dancers and music lovers are invited to the Senior Dance Society this Tuesday. Enjoy a live musical duo, social dancing and line dancing.

Light refreshments and snacks will be provided. Admission is $10. Open to singles and couples. For more information, contact Rita Voli at 609408-3619.

Sip. Savor. Support. ▶Wednesday,

May 12th from 6-9pm Vagabond 672 N. Trenton Ave. Atlantic City

CIRCLE LIQUOR STORE

Cheers To Spring!

Vagabond Kitchen and Tap House is hosting Sip. Savor. Support. to benefit Gilda’s Club South Jersey this Wednesday, May 12th at the Mile Stretch Beer Garden. Enjoy delicious food and drinks, great food and a fun silent auction. Wear casual attire. The cost is $55 per person or 2 for $100.

Space is limited and all CDC guidelines, including masks and social distancing, will be followed. For tickets and information, visit gildasclubsouthjersey. org.

OC Rotary Red Cross Blood Drive ▶Friday,

May 14th from 10am-3pm Ocean City Senior Center 1735 Simpson Ave. Ocean City For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 609412-3459 or sign up online at www.

RedCrossBlood.org with the sponsor code ocrotary.

4H Electronics Recycling Fundraiser ▶Saturday,

May 15th from 9am-12pm David C. Wood 4H Center 3210 Route 50, Mays Landing The Atlantic County 4H will accept electronics for recycling for a fundraiser. Accepted items include AC adapters, audio and video equipment, computer monitors, keyboards, mice and PC speakers and more. The electronics are recycled through a NJDEP-certified electronics recycler.

Please contact 609-625-0056 or email ac4hfairgrounds@gmail.com for more information.

Free Rabies Clinic ▶Saturday,

May 15th from 10am-12pm Margate City Fire Department 1 S. Washington Ave. There will be a free rabies clinic for Longport Residents on Saturday, May 15th. Residents will also be able to register their dogs at the clinic.

Skato with Kato ▶Saturday,

May 15th at 4:30pm Ocean City Skatepark

Join the Humane Society of Ocean City and Jilly’s for an all ages skate competition with a very special ALLskate performance by LNJ Sessions.

ALLskate starts at 4:30pm. Competition begins at 5:30. $20 to enter. For more information, visit hsocnj.org.

Art

SatARTDays ▶Saturdays

at 12pm Noyes Arts Garage 2200 Fairmount Ave. Atlantic City A new series of 6 free children’s art classes will take place every Saturday in the Spring of 2021 with a professional artist at the Noyes Arts Garage.

Free art classes will begin April 3rd and run for 6 weeks until May 8th for Atlantic City residents. Seating is limited. Register online at artsgarageac. com.

Kids

The Bug Girl StoryWalk ▶Now

– May 31st Lake Memorial Park 407 Wesley Ave. Ocean City Learn the true story of The Bug Girl, written by Sophia Spencer and Margaret McNamara and Illustrated

by Kerascoet while you walk through the park. Find the laminated bugs throughout the park for a chance to win a special prize. Stop by the Children’s Desk at the Ocean City Library between now and May 31st to receive a bug-themed craft kit. To learn more, visit oceancitylibrary.org.

Virtual Children’s Story Time ▶Tuesdays

and Saturdays at 11am Tune in to hear prerecorded Story Times. Crafts can be picked up at the Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield’s circulation desk for the *almost* full experience. Watch online at facebook.com/nflibrary.

↘Continued on 10

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MAY 6, 2021

Shore Local-tainment Live & Local Music Calendar

May 6th

Billy Walton ▶6-9pm.

Sweetwater Marina 2780 7th Ave. Sweetwater

Quasimodo’s Bride ▶9pm.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City

May 7th

May 9th

Laura Lea Duo ▶5-8pm.

Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Jim Fisher ▶5:30-8:30pm.

Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Marmora Stealing Savanah Duo ▶6:15pm.

Villain & Saint 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Alton, Endling & Rolling Thunder ▶7pm.

Bourre 201 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City Love & Branca ▶7pm.

EHT Vagabond 3016 Ocean Heights Ave. Egg Harbor Township Bob Mower & Doug Jennings ▶7:30-10:30pm.

Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate Philly Keys Dueling Pianos ▶8pm.

Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Shaun LaBoy ▶9pm.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City

Al Jesson Duo ▶12-4pm.

Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Beth Tinnon ▶1-5pm.

Balic Winery 6623 Harding Hwy. Mays Landing Homespun Trio ▶2-6pm.

Sweetwater Marina 2780 7th Ave. Sweetwater No Clue Trio ▶3-7pm.

Caroline’s by the Bay 450 Bay Ave. Somers Point

May 8th

Journey to Destinee ▶5-9pm.

Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City No Standards Duo ▶6:15pm.

Sky Cafe at Ocean Casino Resort 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Cosmic Charlie ▶9pm.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City

Colossal Street Jam w/ ResurreXtion ▶1-6pm.

Bourre Beach 201 S. New York Ave. Atlantic City Beth Tinnon ▶1-5pm.

Balic Winery 6623 Harding Hwy. Mays Landing Mott’s Creek Pickers ▶2-6pm.

Sweetwater Marina 2780 7th Ave. Sweetwater Motor City Live ▶4:00pm

& 8:00pm. Sound Waves at Hard Rock 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Jersey Steve ▶5:30-8:30pm.

Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Marmora Five Times Famous ▶6-10pm.

Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Kicking Sunrise Duo ▶6:15pm.

Sky Cafe at Ocean Casino Resort 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Hotlanta ▶6:30pm.

Josie Kelly’s Public House 908 Shore Rd. Somers Point Brandon Ireland Band ▶7pm.

EHT Vagabond 3016 Ocean Heights Ave. Egg Harbor Township Big Daddy Duo ▶7:30-10:30pm.

Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate

MAY 6, 2021

May 12th

Bob Sterling Band ▶6:30-9:30pm.

Bocca 7805 Ventnor Ave. Margate The Budesa Brothers ▶7pm.

Gregory’s 900 Shore Rd. Somers Point

May 13th

Ian & Christina ▶2-6pm.

Sweetwater Marina 2780 7th Ave. Sweetwater

May 14th

May 15th

Jumper Trio ▶12-4pm.

Renault Winery 72 N. Bremen Ave. Egg Harbor City Days of Wild w/ Papa Guyo ▶1-6pm

Laguna Grill & Rum Bar 1400 Ocean Ave. Brigantine Chris Yoder ▶5:30-8:30pm

Tuckahoe Inn 1 Harbor Rd. Marmora The Coconutz Duo ▶6:15pm

Villain & Saint 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Mersey ▶9pm

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall 133 S. Tennessee Ave. Atlantic City Times and dates are subject to change.

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↘Continued from 8 Online Kids Crafts at Longport Public Library ▶Wednesdays

and Saturdays 2305 Atlantic Ave. Longport Longport Public Library has a new, free kid’s craft kit available for pickup each Wednesday and Saturday. Craft kits are intended for ages 3-8 and contain everything you need for a fun activity each week. Call 609-487-7403 or visit longportpubliclibrary.org to learn more.

Virtual Rhythm & Rhymes ▶Wednesdays

at 10:30am Virtual story time for children ages birth to 2. All story times will be held

virtually on Zoom. To learn more, visit oceancitylibrary.org.

Berries and You: Perfect Together (Virtual) ▶Tuesday,

May 11th at 6:30pm Join Longport Public Library for a seminar that explores the health benefits of berries with a focus on the berries of New Jersey. Tasting and a beautiful booklet of berry recipes included. Call 609-487-7403 or visit longportpubliclibrary.org for more information or to register.

Crafting with Kite Paper (Virtual) ▶Tuesday,

May 11th at 6:30pm Learn how to make beautiful window stars with kite paper. Join Miss Taimi as she shows you how to make one of her favorite crafts (and shares a book or two). Because window stars are created with specific folds, this craft is best suited for children 7 and older. To learn more or to register, visit oceancitylibrary.org.

Outdoor Family-Friendly Bingo ▶Tuesday,

May 18th at 6:30pm Longport Borough Hall 2305 Atlantic Ave. Join Longport Public Library for a few rounds of a family-friendly bingo game night. Each winner will receive a prize. The event will be held in the gazebos behind Borough Hall. Registration is required. Please call 609-487-7403 or visit longportpubliclibrary.org for more information or to register.

Lectures and Workshops

FRED & SUSAN MILLER'S BOOKS MAKE OCEAN CITY'S HISTORY VISIBLE!

Virtual Resume Workshops ▶Tuesdays

through May Calling all high school students: join Longport Public Library for their newest program, Resume Workshops. Whether

you’re just creating your resume or already have some experience, spend 15 minutes (virtually) 1-on-1 with an experienced recruiter and fine-tune your resume to stand out for the summer. Registration is required. Visit longportpubliclibrary.org for more information or to register.

Mother’s Day Manicure Event ▶Friday,

May 7th from 11:30am-3pm New Day FSC 622-624 S. New York Rd. Galloway New Day Family Success Center will have paraffin wax & manicure kits for you to spend some time with you or bonding with a person of your choice.

Registration on Eventbrite or by phone is required. Please call 609-652-0230 or visit facebook.com/newdaygalloway for more information.

OC-UT Rotary Virtual Meeting ▶Thursday,

May 13th at 6:30pm The Rotary Club of Ocean City – Upper Township online program for Thursday, May 13th will be Madhuri Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Southern NJ Chapter for the American Red Cross NJ Region and Laura Bishop, Board member with the American Red Cross of Southern New Jersey. For more information, visit ocutrotary.org.

Ocean City Library Virtual Lecture Series: Home Downsizing ▶Thursday,

May 13th at 7pm We hear it every day. “My Children Don’t Want It. What Can I Do?” And it’s happening all over America. In this session, Mike Ivankovich will give you 15 Tips & Strategies designed not only to deal with your “Stuff,” but hopefully help you make some good money when selling it. To learn more or to register, visit oceancitylibrary.org.

Sandy Pages Virtual Book Club: “The Dress Shop on King Street” ▶Monday,

May 17th at 1pm Sandy Pages Book Club will be meeting to discuss The Dress Shop on King Street by Ashley Clark. This is a free event open to anyone who has read the month’s discussion title, but registration is required. The event will be held virtually via GoToMeeting and in-person in Longport Branch Council Chambers. Copies of this material are available to Longport Public Library patrons. Please call 609-487-7403 or visit longportpubliclibrary.org for more information or to register.

Virtual Garden Talk: All About Tomatoes ▶Monday,

May 17th at 6pm Join Belinda Chester, Master Gardener Program Coordinator at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Atlantic County, for a virtual garden talk. We’ll talk about selecting, growing and troubleshooting tomatoes. Register at acua. com/EventItem.aspx?id=7016.

OCFPL Virtual Book Club ▶Wednesday,

May 19th at 6pm Join the librarians for a fun discussion of this month’s book, The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo. To register for book club meetings, visit oceancitylibrary.org.

Tech

Virtual Tech Help ▶Fridays

from 11am-12pm Struggling to download an app to your cell phones or tablets? Trying to figure out how to read e-books on your Kindle? Longport Public Library Staff are excited to bring back Friday Tech Help. Registration is required. Help will be provided virtually via GoToMeeting. Visit longportpubliclibrary.org to request a 15-minute time slot. Please fill out the form completely and our staff will confirm your appointment via e-mail.

UTBA Virtual Professional Development Workshop ▶Thursday,

May 13th at 12pm Cyber attacks are a growing and constant concern for small businesses.

This workshop will highlight the ongoing threats for computer systems and how to mitigate the risks for your business and yourself. For more information and additional information, visit the UTBA Eventbrite page at upper-twp-business-association. eventbrite.com.

Health and Wellness

Virtual Yoga Session ▶Thursdays

at 9:30am Registration is now open for Longport Public Library’s yoga session. Virtual classes are held each week through May 27th. Registration is required and spots are limited. 609-487-7403 or visit longportpubliclibrary.org for more information or to register.

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MAY 6, 2021

Rising Minds Virtual Meetings ▶Thursdays

at 6pm The Mental Health Association presents a free peer led support group ran by and for 18-30 year olds to share experiences, develop tools for self care, and connect with others who understand and engage in honest conversations about mental health. To receive a link by email and join our virtual meeting, contact btrendler@mhanj.org or join via zoom.us/join and enter Meeting ID: 971 713 914, Password 503416 Visit mhanj. org for more information.

Men’s Wellness Virtual Group ▶Thursday,

May 6th at 6pm This online group meets online via Zoom or by call-in at 6pm on the first and third Thursday of each month.

Topics vary, but may include setting personal goals, substance use, anger management, and coping strategies for better health, family/relationships. To receive a link, email bhuff@mhanj.org, call 609-652-3800 or join via zoom. us/join and enter Meeting ID: 879 7103 8031, Password 847497 Visit mhanj.org for more information.

Virtual Heartfulness Group Meditation ▶Thursdays

at 7:25pm Join Heartfulness every Thursday night on Zoom for group meditation classes. This practice is a natural way of experiencing the true self. The class is free and open to all and no experience is necessary. Visit facebook.com/MeditateSJ to learn more.

Virtual Tai Chi/Qigong ▶Fridays

at 11am Tai Chi/Qigong Class participants will learn the ancient mind, body, spirit practices of Qigong and Tai Chi. These gentle practices help relieve stress, improve balance and flexibility and enhance the immune system. Class is open to adults at all fitness levels. No experience required. Visit acfpl.org to register.

Free Community Yoga Class ▶Saturdays

at 10am Noyes Arts Garage 2200 Fairmount Ave. Atlantic City

The Pastry Pantry Bakery

Since 1963

506 New Rd. Somers Point (609) 927-6760

Join the Noyes Arts Garage and the Leadership Studio for free yoga in the art gallery. Classes are every Saturday.

Masks are required and please bring your own yoga mat. Parking is $4 in the Wave Garage. Sign up online at leadershipstudioac.com/class-schedule.

Virtual Meditation ▶Sundays

at 7:15pm The Mental Health Association of Atlantic County presents a guided, calming meditation or breathing exercise.

To receive a link by email and join the group online, email btrendler@mhanj. org or call 609-652-3800 ext. 318 or join via zoom.us/join. Meeting ID: 849 3665 7008, Password 184661.

Virtual Healthy Homes Workshop ▶Monday,

May 11th at 4pm We have been spending more times at home than any other you. Do you wonder if there are harmful chemicals in your home? Do you want to know a way to clean using no chemicals? Join New Day FSC as Kelly McLaughlin from SNJPC answers these questions and more. Pre-registration is required.

Please email newdaygalloway@gmail. com for more information.

Virtual Coping Skills ▶Tuesdays

at 1pm Participants discover and practice coping skills through journaling, selfcare, and other common avenues of wellness. To receive a link by email and join the group online, email btrendler@ mhanj.org or call 609-652-3800 or join via zoom.us/join. Meeting ID: 841 2648 1496, Password 958411.

Virtual Mind & Body Workshop ▶Wednesdays

at 11am The Mental Health Association of Atlantic County hosts a weekly Zoom meeting for those living with a disability.

For questions, contact Bernadette at btrendler@mhanj.org, call 609-6523800 ext. 303 or visit mhaac.info.

Depression and Anxiety Virtual Groups ▶Wednesdays

at 6pm & Thursdays at 10:30am This peer-led group is offered to

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individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness/ recovery as well as discussion of experiences, relationships and other related topics. This is a program of the Mental Health Association. To receive a link by email for the Thursday group, contact Bernadette at btrendler@mhanj.org, call 609-652-3800 ext. 303 or visit mhaac. info. The call-in number for the Wednesday group is 609-241-9388, then type in ID 149330.

Outdoor Beginner’s Yoga ▶Sunday,

May 17th at 3pm Inland FSC 3050 Spruce Ave. Egg Harbor Township Join Inland FSC for a relaxing out-

door yoga session led by yoga instructor, Yogini Samuel. Relieve stress and stretch your muscles following beginner level yoga exercises. Pre-registration is required. Please email inlandfsc@gmail. com for more information.

Atlantic-Cape May RTC Virtual Meeting ▶Wednesday,

May 19th at 9am The Atlantic-Cape May Regional Tobacco Collective will hold a virtual Spring meeting via Zoom. Find out how you can promote tobacco-free prevention and education strategies to impact the well-being and health of all community members. Learn more at tobaccofreenj. com.

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11

What’s Happening in Ocean City

Martin Z. Mollusk to Seek His Shadow on Saturday Ocean City’s hermit-crab mascot will seek his shadow in a local version of Groundhog Day at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 8, on the beach next to the Music Pier (between Moorlyn Terrace and Ninth Street). Martin Z. Mollusk has successfully predicted an early summer every year for more than four decades (sometimes, of course, with the creative use of flashlights by his handlers).

Martin’s prediction this year will be more important than ever, because we know everybody is anxious for the arrival of summer after a year of so many sacrifices.

The Martin Z. Mollusk Day program also will include the life-sized Martin Z. and Mollie Mollusk mascots.

Together, the Mollusks make up the first family of “America’s Greatest Family Resort.”

The winners of the 2021 Martin Z. Mollusk Coloring Contest will be

honored and their artwork unveiled to the public.

At noon on Saturday (May 8), Mustangs, Corvettes and other high-performance American cars will rumble onto the Ocean City Boardwalk for the Modern Muscle Car Invasion. As many as 500 vehicles will remain on display on the boardwalk from Fifth Street to

14th Street until 5 p.m. For more information, visit modernmusclecarinvasion.com.

Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian announced Friday that the city will have a fireworks display on Sunday, July 4, the Night in Venice celebration on Saturday, July 24, and our 11th annual Baby Parade on Thursday, Aug. 12

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MAY 6, 2021

Margate and Absecon Schools S.T.E.A.M. Ahead to Bring First Peas to the Table

By Tammy Thornton

S

tudents at the William H. Ross III School in Margate and the H. Ashton Marsh School in Absecon have teamed up for a cross-curricular S.T.E.A.M. project that brings the classroom to the garden.

Inspired by the book First Peas to the Table by Susan Grigsby, third graders from both schools planted snap peas in March hoping to be the first ones to grow a cup of peas. In the book, Grigsby tells how Thomas Jefferson held a friendly pea-growing competition every spring with neighbors of his Monticello estate and gardens. Students at the Margate and Absecon schools aren’t as concerned about who is “winning” as they are about all the amazing things they are learning through this project.

Both school groups have been documenting and sharing their questions, answers, and observations using the scientific method. Students are learning how to communicate with their peers while using experiments to discover how different methods and environmental factors affect the growth and health of their plants. Third grade teacher Jessica Cuevas, along with teacher Anita Grimley, both of the Ross School in Margate, have made this project part of the curriculum with her third grade

classes since 2018. Each school year she has teamed up with Lora Blanco, third grade teacher at the Marsh School in Absecon. They are also joined by Mrs. Blanco’ co-teacher, Jennifer Person.

Circumstances make every year a little different. Due to the quarantine and lockdown of 2020, the project last year was not able to happen. This year teachers and students alike were happy and excited to resume the experiment, while following social distancing procedures. Mrs. Blanco stated, “This year with COVID, things looked a bit different, but the Google Meet was great. We are hoping to have more. I just want to add that working with Mrs. Cuevas and Mrs. Grimley has been amazing. This project helps the students see where and how their food is grown. It also allows them to collaborate with other students, ask questions, and reflect. These skills are very important to be successful in life.”

While students at the Ross School plant their peas in the school’s outdoor garden, the Marsh School uses their hydroponic garden. Years ago, Mrs. Blanco learned about hydroponic gardening through a workshop provided by AtlantiCare’s Healthy Schools, Healthy Children program. Students from both the Marsh School and the Ross School are learning how hydroponic gardening works and are able to compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two gardening methods.

Their project incorporates both good old fashioned practices, such as letter writing as a way to introduce the students to each other, as well as 21st Century technology, like Google Meets and shared Google docs. At the end of

Third graders Hadley Horner and Ray Schaaf measure the height of their snap peas at the Ross School garden in Margate.

April, the classes “met” in each other's gardens virtually through Google Meet.

It was an exciting time for students to see the progress of the pea plants in the other school’s gardens. Ross School students were able to “see” how a hydroponic garden works and Marsh School students were able to virtually visit the

Margate School’s raised bed garden.

Among other subjects, the cross-curricular project includes connections to math, social studies, ELA, science, technology, and art. The teachers appreciate how each year is a different learning experience. “Although the projects are unique to the groups we have that year, they never fail to thrill us all, teachers and students alike! I most enjoy the collaborative spirit shared between the two classes and the teachers, which mirrors what scientists do in real life,” said Mrs. Cuevas.

Time will tell which group will bring the “First Peas to the Table”. They hope to harvest the fruit of their labor by the end of May. But considering all that the students are learning and their enthusiasm for the project, we would say that this is a winning experience for everyone.

Tammy Thornton is a mom of four, a substitute teacher, and a Sunday school teacher. She is passionate about gardening and cooking, and loves the beach.

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Take a Trip on the Revolution Rail

By Linda Arceo

L

ooking for a fun and unique family friendly outdoor activity? How about a trip on the Revolution Rail?

Revolution Rail is an exciting new pedal-powered railbiking adventure now being offered in Cape May, New Jersey. By partnering with Cape May Seashore Lines, Revolution Rail brings South Jersey's very first railbike location to the inactive railroad tracks of the Jersey shore.

This one-of-a-kind Cape May experience begins at the Welcome Center at 609 Lafayette Street in Cape May and travels across a 4 mile route.

The ride is enjoyed at a leisurely pace and takes approximately 90 minutes

to complete.

While pedaling your rail bike along the railroad tracks, you will enjoy the natural scenes of Cape May including expansive native wildflower meadows, salt marshes, birds, cranes and raptors, and the many monarch butterflies who visit The Nature Conservancy and the Garrett Family Preserve during their migration.

Ready to take a trip on the Revolution Rail?

Here’s everything you need to know for this memorable activity.

What to Expect

Arrive at the welcome center (located at 609 Lafayette Street) 1520 minutes before your scheduled reservation to check-in. Reservations are strongly recommended and you can book your preferred tour time directly on the Revolution Rail website (www.revrail.com).

What about the Railbike?

Railbikes are available in doubles for two riders or quads for four riders. The railbikes operate similarly to a paddleboat or bicycle and are completely pedal powered. The railbikes are easy to pedal and you can travel at your preferred pace.

E AT. D R I N K . B E H A P P Y .

Who Can Ride?

Riders of all ages and ability levels can ride on the Revolution Rail. Loose lap babies are not allowed, however, infants can ride in a front-mounted child carrier (like a Baby Bjorn). Toddlers can ride in a front-mounted child carrier or, if they can keep their heads up, they can use the 5-point harnesses offered by Revolution Rail and ride along in their own seat. Children ages 4 and up can ride in their own seat, using the railbike seat belts.

Note: There is a 300 lb weight limit per rider per seat.

123What to Bring?

Be sure to bring a camera to capture the sights of the tour. There is plenty to see along the route includ-

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Pro Tips ● ● ●

●

Prepare for all types of weather.

The tours operate rain or shine.

Wear comfortable shoes for optimal pedaling.

Each railbike has a small cargo net in the rear of the bike for small, personal belongings.

Say cheese! Tour operators take your picture at a picturesque spot towards the end of the tour. Photos are made available to riders via a photo-sharing website.

Revolution Rail is a bucket-list

must and the perfect way to kickoff your day in Cape May. Linda Arceo is the owner and content creator behind the food, drink and travel blog Giggles, Gobbles and Gulps. Linda is a digital influencer and freelance writer focusing on food, travel, lifestyle and culinary tourism.

Linda’s blog can be found at www. gigglesgobblesandgulps.com and you can follow her on Instagram at @GigGobGulp.

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15

Sunny economic forecast for Summer ’21

By Bill Barlow

T

he bad economic news is hardly news at all. The pandemic hit the national economy hard, with the hospitality industry that shore towns depend on hurt more than most. In South Jersey, the nation and the world, the disruption has been enormous.

But there are reasons for optimism, Oliver Cooke told a recent meeting of the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce. He is and associate professor of economics at Stockton University and a policy scholar at the William J. Hughes Center. On April 29, he spoke to local business leaders. Like so much else for more than a year, the event was held remotely.

“I thought it might be helpful to start with the good news,” Cooke said. Clear evidence is beginning to

accumulate: “The US economy looks set for a strong rebound in 2021.”

Locally and nationally, the economy is adding jobs quickly. New unemployment claims are down. He said the numbers have been heading in the right direction over the last several months, although the overall number of jobs remains shy of figures from February of 2020, just before the bottom fell out.

People are saving more money, he said.

Both business own- Warm spring weather has drawn visitors to the Ocean City Boardwalk. Businesses look forward to a busy ers and Cooke report summer and many just want things back to normal, but it may be tough to find staff. that pre-season bookings appeared brisk for the winter and shore sites. By early July, estihour and will likely need to increase and spring. Those who remained mates are that 80% of the population wages to attract qualified applicants. employed, or those who received will be vaccinated against COVID-19.

“I hear restaurants are offering enhanced unemployment insurance Cooke cited a question that re$20 an hour and not getting any applibenefits and the federal stimulus, mains: Will people be comfortable cants,” said Doug Burke, the chairman have some extra money and are tired eating in restaurants, waterparks, of the chamber’s Board of Directors shopping or attending crowded who led the meeting. of lockdown days and Zoom meetings and are ready for a trip. events?

“You have hotels that normally Many remain reluctant to fly or vis“A lot of this is going to depend, as have 200 people that have 50 people. it major cities, he added, which could it always has, on consumer comfort,” How can they keep up with that?” buoy regional vacation destinations he said.

Burke said.

Cooke expressed concern with the Cooke raised the specter of inimpact of new strains of the virus, creasing wages driving inflation, and calling the situation in India a human some of the business owners cited tragedy, and said both the housing the federal money enhancing unemmarket and the equity market are ployment insurance as reducing the extremely high right now. numbers of people looking for jobs.

Also, with a growing economy, will Last summer, a federal program there be people to do the work? allowing workers to visit from overDuring the video meeting, busiseas under what’s known as a J-1 visa ness owners said there are help wantwas all but shut down. Those workers ed signs lining the Boardwalks. One from around the world make up a sigowner said he was already at $15 an nificant percentage of the summer

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Happy Mom’s Day workers in shore towns. For this year, the program is back but will likely experience delays and limitations.

Some workers are also reluctant due to fear of the virus, particularly in industries like hospitality that require face-to-face interaction with consumers. There are many who found work in other sectors, he added, as tourism jobs dried up. With Amazon and other major retailers paying $15 an hour, it may be more difficult to fill a summer job.

According to Cooke, without that additional weekly payment boosting confidence and stabilizing household spending, the pandemic-driven recession would likely have been far worse.

When you think about the collapse of the job market, he said, without the additional federal spending there would have likely been an even bigger drop in consumer spending.

Around the country, job losses were far worse than in the great recession of just over a decade ago, Cooke reported. Locally, the leisure and hospitality jobs saw the biggest drop, down by about one half from 2019 to 2020.

Cape May County jobs have seen a comeback, he said.

“County labor force has actually climbed back above where we were pre-pandemic, which is really quite remarkable in many ways,” Cooke said. “This is not the same as in Atlantic County. Right now, Atlantic County’s labor force remains below where it was pre-pandemic.”

The casino take at the brick-andmortar locations was devastated, he said, with a loss of about $1 billion, or about half the total from before the pandemic.

Businesses also have a returning confidence, up to a point. According to Cooke’s presentation, nearly 46% of small businesses surveyed believe it will take six months or more to return to normal operations, compared to 37% nationally. A smaller number, 8.5%, don’t believe it will ever return.

Just under 3% of businesses in New Jersey closed for good last year, a rate higher than the national average.

Housing prices have been a bright spot in the local economy, he said, with values rising rapidly in Cape May County. That is a long-term trend, according to figures presented by Cooke, and multiple industry insiders say single-family homes are moving fast, often at above the asking price.

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17

Women’s Christian Temperance Union Fountain

A Look Back at Ocean City

By Fred Miller

“W

.C.T.U. PRESENTS CITY WITH HANDSOME FOUNTAIN; Mayor Champion Accepts Gift from Mrs. S.S. Warren”

was the headline in the June 15, 1915 Ocean City Sentinel. The article began, “Memorial Day of this year was a memorable occasion for the members of the Ocean City Women’s Christian Temperance Union, marking, as it did, the presentation of the union’s pretty granite drinking fountain to the city.”

The article continued, “The fountain, which is in front of the city hall, cost about $400.

“Shortly before 4 o’clock, a number of the members of the union, Mayor Joseph G. Champion and the Rev. James E. Lake assembled on the steps of the building. Mrs. Spencer

B. Swan, president of the local union, introduced Mr. Lake and announced that he would offer prayer. Mr. Lake suggested that they first sing ‘My Country, Tis of Thee.’

“Mrs. Warren, who presented the fountain to the city, said that they had met today to celebrate the dedication of this fountain, which the union started to work for eight years ago.”

Mayor Joseph G. Champion accepted the fountain saying, “It gave him great pleasure to accept this magnificent gift on behalf of the city.

The community is to be congratulated on having such women as comprise the Ocean City W.C.T.U., who not only think of the needs of the public but also animals.”

The newspaper article reported, “Mr. Champion expressed the hope that the fountain will remain for years as a monument to the W.C.T.U., and he assured the members that the City Commissioners will take the best of care of the gift.”

The article continued: “Mrs.Della B. Smith, of this city, president of the Cape May County W.C.T.U., said this is one of the golden days in the lives of the members of the Ocean City W.T.C.U. This monument will be here long after those who planned it have passed away, but the speaker said she wanted to build her monument in the heart of every child and then it will live for eternity.”

Mrs. Isabella Demarest, corresponding secretary of the New Jersey W.C.T.U. was the last to speak. She began by speaking of the significance

of Memorial Day as a day of gratitude for those who gave up their lives that the country might be saved, and ended speaking of women’s rights and the evil of alcohol and the growth of the temperance movement.

The dedication ceremony ended with the singing of the “White Ribbon Song.”

This memorable occasion in Ocean City’s history was in the making for many years. In 1912, the local chapter of the W.C.T.U. to celebrate their 25th anniversary, agreed to raise money for a large granite fountain. By then, the National Women’s Christian Temperance Union, founded in 1874, had presented hundreds of fountains to communities all across America. The fountains were to encourage people to drink safe, free water and not to drink alcohol.

The first W.C.T.U. fountain in Ocean City was dedicated on July 20, 1889

by Mrs. Sarah J.C. Downs, president of the W.C.T.U. of New Jersey. It was a large barrel sitting on a covered platform on the Camp Meeting Grounds between 5th and 6th streets.

It was in 1912 the W.C.T.U. presented the fountain to Mayor Harry Headley. He said he would accept the gift when City Hall was completed. City Hall opened on January 1, 1915, but a few months later, Headley was voted out of office and Joseph G. Champion was elected mayor.

The fountain was rededicated on May 25, 2015 by Ocean City Historical Museum president Richard Stanislaw, historian Fred Miller, and member of W.T.C.U. Eileen Steelman.

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Pamper Mom with DIY Whipped Chocolate Body Butter

By Linda Arceo

I

t is Mom’s moment to shine this weekend. With Mother’s Day right around the corner, what better way to celebrate the Moms in your life than with a little extra pampering? After what has felt like a marathon year for Moms everywhere, carving out special moments of self-care at home have become more important than ever. This doit-yourself whipped chocolate body butter is a spa treatment in a jar.

Body butters are rich moisturizers used on your skin to help hydrate and leave your skin feeling ultra soft.

Body butters are similar to a lotion or body cream, but are not made with water. This all-natural combination of moisturizing shea butter, coconut oil and rich, fragrant ingredients will

leave your skin feeling soft and extra pampered. ● Shea Butter - Shea butter is the base for this DIY Whipped Chocolate Body Butter. Shea Butter is an excellent product for smoothing, soothing and conditioning your skin. It helps hold moisture in and reduces the risk of dryness. ● Coconut Oil - Coconut oil absorbs easily into the skin. It smells great, soothes irritated skin and has antioxidant qualities. ● Raw Cocoa Powder - Raw Cocoa Powder can be used to help main-

●

tain skin health. The cocoa powder in this body butter recipe helps soften, clear and detoxify the skin.

The raw cocoa powder also helps enhance the natural chocolate fragrance in this body butter.

Vanilla Essential Oil (or vanilla extract) - Vanilla Essential Oil adds an aromatic element to this body butter, while also helping with to fight acne, smooth out wrinkles and brighten dull skin.

DIY Whipped Chocolate Body Butter Here is an easy DIY gift idea for

Mom that can be whipped up in your kitchen in no time with a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients: ● 10 TBS raw shea butter ● 10 TBS of coconut oil ● 2 TBS raw cocoa powder ● 2 TBS vanilla essential oil (or vanilla extract) Directions: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and whip using an hand mixer until smooth and fluffy. Store in air-tight container and use within two weeks.

Use: To enjoy this Whipped Chocolate Body Butter scoop out a small amount and massage into your skin until it is fully absorbed. The body butter is non-greasy and will not leave your skin feeling oily. Don’t be tempted by the enticing chocolate scent of this DIY Whipped Chocolate Body Butter because it is not edible.

Note: If you are making this DIY Whipped Chocolate Body Butter for gift giving you will want to put the body butter in small, decorative jars. To complete, add a personalized label or note listing the ingredients. You can even pair the body butter with a pair of cozy socks, flowers or a plant.

This DIY Whipped Chocolate Body Butter is a gift in a jar that goes really far! The body butter feels indulgent, thoughtful and special. Celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day with something she will love and leave her skin feeling incredible.

Happy Mother’s Day to all!

Linda Arceo is the owner and content creator behind the food, drink and travel blog Giggles, Gobbles and Gulps. Linda is a digital influencer and freelance writer focusing on food, travel, lifestyle and culinary tourism.

Linda’s blog can be found at www. gigglesgobblesandgulps.com and you can follow her on Instagram at @GigGobGulp.

20

MAY 6, 2021

A Senior’s Observations, Opinions and Rantings

Mum’s the Word

Senior Moments

By Charles P. Eberson

A

s in most holidays throughout the year, Mother’s Day can come with mixed feelings for many people. For some, as with myself, our mothers are no longer with us. My mother has been gone for eleven years. Others still have the company of their mother but the relationship is complicated; a mixture of love, obligation, patience, resentment, caretaker, etc. I was very fortunate in that my mother passed away at the age of eighty seven so I enjoyed her company for a long time.

It was in the later years that I took a more focused interest in her past and in my column, I wrote a lengthy series about her experience as a teen living in London during what has been known as “The Blitz”; the bombing of London during World War II. It was a story of resilience and courage. She met my father who was in the Army Air Corps stationed in England, left her country and all the family she knew and got married in Ventnor.

After a couple years of living in Philadelphia, mom and dad moved back to Ventnor and eventually Margate as their permanent home. No matter how long she lived in the U.S. she always referred to England as “home.”

Every July 4th, I reminded her of the significance of the date in American history to which she would invariably reply, “America would have been better off had it still been part of the British Empire.” I must admit, there have been times since her passing that her quote has come to mind. Mum came from Russian and Polish parents who were no strangers to hard work. Her hands were not thin and delicate but thick and strong. She used those hands as a seamstress sewing uniforms during the war and continued her sewing until the end of her days.

As I was growing up, a steady stream of ladies would arrive at our house bring in dresses and skirts for alterations. She did those alterations late into the night after she put my brother and me to bed. We were watching a show on TV one night about Atlantic City during the prohibition

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period and “Nucky” Johnson’s name was mentioned. “Nucky” was head of a corrupt political machine at the time in Atlantic City. In typical British understatement, she said, “Oh, I used to alter his clothes” and that was all she mentioned. My mother didn’t get her driver’s license until I was in 5th grade. Out of the three schools in Margate, Union Avenue was the farthest away so to be part of the carpool she had to take her turn.

She got along fine on our little island but to venture farther afield her lack of a sense of direction became humorously evident. She would tell us where she was going and then came home hours later telling us of the

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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 Daily Happy Hour 3pm-7pm & 3am-7am

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circuitous path she took to get there, stopping often for directions. Still, it didn’t dissuade her from embarking off on her journeys. Even in her 80’s, when she would pull away from our home, her heavy foot on the accelerator would launch the car down the street leaving us laughing in its wake. It has been said that time heals all wounds. I cannot say the wound of her loss has healed but over the years, the memories of her laughter, her strength and her devotion to our family continues to make inroads against the loss. It is my hope that this Mother’s Day, we take time to show mothers who are still with us our love and appreciation while remembering those who are gone but remain in our memory.

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Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend Takes Place this Summer at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

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he Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame officially announces its 5th Annual Induction Weekend

scheduled for August 20 through August 22, 2021. Boxing enthusiasts will enjoy the experience of a lifetime with an action-packed

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weekend of festivities hosted at Atlantic City resort industry leader, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, along with FantaSea Resorts and the historic Claridge – A Radisson Hotel who will team up to rollout the red carpet for this memorable event.

"It’s a GREAT day for the City of Atlantic City as I’m elated to welcome the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame back to our great city. Ray McCline and his organization continue to pay homage to our storied boxing history by honoring the legends who made Atlantic City the home of many great fights,” said Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Sr. “My administration will continue to support the efforts of the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame and I can’t wait for the festivities.”

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Celebration will offer boxing enthusiasts a weekend full of great programming which will include a kick-off cocktail reception, meet & greets, spectacular artwork and exhibits. In addition, ACBHOF will partner with New Jersey Give a Kid a Dream “Girls in Gloves” non-profit and CareSparc Consulting to bring an all-inclusive Sustainable Health & Wellness and Fitness Village “Going the Distance to a Healthier Atlantic City.” The village will offer screenings, seminars, pop-up vendors, healthy food choices, music, and fitness

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as well as a live amateur boxing show, “Atlantic City Invitational featuring Team Puerto Rico versus Team Select” and much more all taking place with the Atlantic Ocean and Historic Boardwalk as the perfect backdrop.

“We are thrilled to host the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame for their Induction event. Boxing has such a deep and meaningful history in the Atlantic City community, and we are humbled to be a part of it,” said Shelley Williams, Vice President of Sales at Hard Rock Atlantic City. “We are eager to welcome guests back to our meeting space safely with our market-leading ‘Safe + Sound’ protocols.”

The finale of the weekend will be the Combined Induction Ceremony honoring the 2020 & 2021 Classes taking place inside the Sound Waves showroom at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

2020 Inductees Roy Jones Jr., Riddick Bowe, Pernell Whitaker, Al Cole, Ernest Bing, Tony Thornton, Sr., Calvin Grove, Percy Richardson, Tommy Parks, Earl Morton, Steve Weisfeld, Ron Katz, Murad Muhammad, Marc Abrams, Al Bernstein, and Ms. Laoma Byrd 2021 Inductees Felix Trindad, Kelly Pavlik, Simon Brown, Ivan Robinson, Aaron Snowell, Joey Eye, Frank Cappuccino, Ed Keenan, and Nino Delbuno “ We’re extremely excited about our Class of 2021 and Class of 2020 Inductees and are very much looking forward to honoring these esteemed honorees. While the past year has been difficult and challenging for many of us, our partners Roxanne Passarella the CEO of FantaSea Resort and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and myself hope that this event-filled weekend provides the boxing community and our guests with a bit of normalcy,” said Ray McCline, President of the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

Tickets for this unprecedented event go on sale May 10 through Ticketmaster at www. ticketmaster.com. Tickets are limited due to venue COVID guidelines. Please visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame website at www.acbhof.com or call (609) 829-8711 for more information.

MAY 6, 2021

Stop the diet deprivation Nutrition

By Nancy Adler

I

n today’s diet-centric culture, the line between weight-loss-motivated “diets” and healthy eating has been blurred. Most now associate “healthy eating” with losing weight, cutting out carbs (and other “fattening foods”), and ultimately depriving themselves of foods they enjoy. Losing the weight, but at what cost?

While everyone would agree that eating healthy is good for your body, many people are confused about what healthy eating even means.

Does a healthy diet mean you can never eat foods you like? Does it mean cutting out all “bad” foods? In

short, what is the balance between a healthy diet and not depriving oneself? Healthy eating for many has become all about saying “no” to the donut or pizza and “yes” to an apple or salad. Essentially, it’s become a weight-loss numbers game.

With “healthy” and “diet” so closely intertwined, it’s no wonder many people either give up on the idea of healthy eating altogether or constantly deprive themselves of foods they love in their quest to eat healthily. But the truth is, healthy eating is not about dieting or weight loss. Let’s say that again. The goal of healthy eating is to give your body the variety of nutrients it needs to feel

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good, have energy, and maintain its proper functioning. Losing weight is one thing, losing weight in a healthy way is another. Always consider if the plan you are following is sustainable long term.

Deprivation is dangerous. In the name of eating healthy, many people constantly deprive themselves of the foods they want and enjoy, not realizing this can be a very dangerous thing to do. Why is it dangerous?

Labeling foods as “good” and “bad” or constantly saying “no” to the foods you want and enjoy can lead to excessive cravings, overeating, and binge eating. Deprivation can also cause you to dislike nutritious, “healthy” foods.

So many people just don’t understand that the main problem with deeming certain foods ‘bad’ and then cutting them out, is that it triggers a cycle of binging often and makes it so much more likely that you won’t stick with it. Deprivation-led healthy eat-

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ing becomes a dangerous yo-yo that not only will make you miserable but can be really detrimental to your health.

So how can you eat healthily and promote a nutritious diet (because we all want to feel our best and live a long, healthy life, right?) while not depriving yourself? Let me share a few ways to get started .

First , healthy foods should not be off limits .

Move away from labeling foods as "good" or "bad."

Food is food. It might have more or fewer health properties, and your body might function better or worse on certain foods, but it doesn’t give them moral high ground. In other words, reject the idea that some foods are “bad” and off-limits, and others are “good.” Instead, give yourself the freedom to enjoy any and all foods, in moderation. Of course, everyone has a different definition of the word moderation.

Secondly, try to educate yourself or seek nutritional advice. In fact, carbs should make up between 45 to 65 percent of your day’s total calories. By learning more about your body’s nutritional needs, you will be better prepared to fuelband nourish your body with a balanced and well-rounded diet.

Practice Gentle Nutrition. We all know things like fresh veggies and fruits have vitamins and minerals in them to help us stay healthy. We also know our bodies need plenty of carbs and proteins to give us energy and help us feel great throughout the day.

Use this knowledge to gently guide your eating choices. This doesn’t mean you only have to eat fruits and veggies or protein-rich foods. Rather, mindfully incorporate them into your diet on a regular basis. Remember, it’s not about saying “no” to foods you enjoy, but rather saying “yes” to more foods that nourish your body, mind, and soul.

Nancy Adler is a certified nutritionist and practitioner in Linwood. Her office is located in Cornerstone Commerce Center, 1201 New Rd. Learn about her practice at ww.nancyadlernutrition.com (609)653-4900 Nancy is the Recipient of the Best of The Press 2020 Gold Award. You may listen to Nancy every Sunday at 2 pm Nancy Adler Nutrition LIVE! NewsTalk 1400 WOND

MAY 6, 2021

Three Steps To Reach Your Goal Jeff's Journal

By Jeff Whitaker

I

don’t know about you, but for me motivation isn’t enough. It’s a help. It’s important, but it’s not enough.

Have you ever decided to go on a diet. You know the routine. You talk about it. You think it over. Things come up and it gets put on the back burner. One day you make the decision and go for it.

I share this analogy only to illustrate a larger point that I want you to apply personally, to your business or career. These are important steps to achieving your desired outcome and they apply across the board in almost every situation. These principles can really apply to any goal you want to reach.

Here they are: 1. Think through a clear plan.

It’s not enough to say here is what I

MAY 6, 2021

want to achieve. You have to have a clear, actionable, doable plan. That doesn’t mean you won’t have to tweak and modify things along the way. But you need to lay out steps to get where you want to go. It also helps to mark out mini milestones along the way that you can celebrate and look forward to. Be clear about how you’re going to reach your goal or goals.

2. Be accountable. It helps to have someone to encourage you, push you along, be your sounding board and partner along the way. This step is very important. I know for me, there have been times I wanted to cave in, call it quicks. But my wife has been there to encourage me and I encourage her. I didn’t want to let her down and it helped to know she was there beside me. Find someone you trust and who's input you respect and invite them along side of you as you journey toward your goal. Don’t go it alone.

3. Know your end game. Have a desired outcome, an end in mind.

Know clearly what you want to achieve and set a date. This exercise does a number of things. It gives you a precise arrival point to shoot for. It allows you the opportunity to break

down a large goal into smaller, attainable milestones and when times get discouraging (and they will) it reminds you how far you’ve come and lets you know that there is an end in sight.

Whether with your career, business, family, personal, spiritual, financial or any other area of your life, the reward comes in not only the benefits of what you’ve achieved by reaching your goal, but the lessons you learn along the way.

I encourage you to take on that goal you’ve been dreaming about, put

some legs to it and start down the path to achievement. Go get ‘em.

Jeff Whitaker is a veteran broadcaster here in South Jersey.. He now draws on his experience and training to work with companies and individuals to develop effective storytelling, communications and leadership skills. Find free resources and ways Jeff can work with you at jeffwhitaker.com

25

Were We Our Pet's Peeve During The Pandemic?

Paw Prints

By Erica Hoffman

T

here are but a few things in this world that are unquestioned and widely regarded as fact.

It took several decades, but I finally found one. Not even Ebenezer Scrooge could ruin this incontrovertible piece of logic.

I discovered that rare gem that ostensibly holds our society together: The love we share for our furry, feathery, scaly, slimy, or hard-shelled friends.

Until now, I selfishly believed I gave my cat the life he deserved. Cardboard boxes as far as the eye can see, strategically placed hair ties on the wood floor to bat around, food, water, treats love, and a home to stay in.

Over the fifteen months we were home a lot with our pets.

Getting up to get ready for work, is still a thing of the past. If I so desire, I could turn off the alarm setting on

my phone (nobody uses alarm clocks anymore). Besides, who needs an alarm when your rambunctious feline sits in the middle of your room, staring at you, almost willing you to wake up?

Our pets have taken on many new roles as we sheltered in place. Everyday my cat wears many different hats. Though some hats may be cute, I’m sure many pets aren’t happy being thrust into their new roles as we socially distance from everyone but them. And most are more vocal about their feelings than they have ever been before.

They have become more than just our most loved and loyal family member; they have been promoted to jobs that were never in their job description.

They became therapists, our sounding boards, and coworkers. They acted as our board game opponents and even our fashion advisors. ‘Which daytime sweats should I wear, Kitten?

Is it time to put on my nighttime pajamas, or should I just stick with the ones I’ve been wearing all day?’ He always has the right answers.

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So, since this pandemic and its rules of social isolation, minimal human contact and bedazzled face masks is still hard on us all, let’s take some of the emotional burden off our pets by giving them a little break from the constant overload of attention that we are showering them with.

We humans have myriad forms of entertainment.

There’s Netflix, Hulu, some seriously heated games of Monopoly and several games of Jenga that may or may not be the deal-breaker of my (human) relationship after this is all over.

But when binging movies, television shows and food just isn’t enough to satisfy our human need to feel needed, let’s give ourselves permission to smother our pets with 24/7 attention and take thousands of pictures no one else will ever want to see.

And, since we’re there, why not give ourselves a pat on the backs for being the self-sacrificing, altruistic humans we are by tending to these animals that ‘rescued us.’

The experts say that, like humans,

pets need their sense of normalcy and stability, too. So after this is over, we’ll all take a nice long vacation and our pets can “Risky Business” it up.

Until then, however, I’d like to thank the following places my cat has found to hide so we can’t smother him with love: ● In the full laundry hamper of dirty laundry. ● Tucked in the farthest corner of the closet. ● The bathroom sink. ● In a pile of clean ready to be folded laundry. ● A Trader Joe’s bag. ● The bathtub. ● The sock drawer. ● Inside the dryer.

I think he’s trying to tell us something, but overall, he is getting really good at sitting in the middle of the floor, giving us suspicious looks while making us feel guilty when we eat something we shouldn’t be.

Erica Hoffman was born in Atlantic City. She grew up in Margate where her first job was a tour guide at Lucy The Elephant. She lives in South Jersey with her fluffy cat and her brilliant boyfriend.

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MAY 6, 2021

Bean Bags Fly as Margate Kicks Off Spring Cornhole League

T

he inaugural spring Margate Cornhole League kicked off their season with matches at four locations around the city on a blustery Monday night. Not even an early evening rain shower could dampen the spirits of the 42 teams, comprised of 84 players vying for the championship at the conclusion of the 5-week regular season and playoffs. The Margate Business Association along with host sponsors Bocca, Maynard’s, Robert’s Place and Ventura’s Greenhouse welcomed the competitors and friends to their establishments, boosting business on an otherwise quiet Monday evening. The competition was fierce albeit good natured and all the participants raved about the organization and fun they had despite the drizzly conditions.

Each team played 2 games during the course of the night, with seven

MAY 6, 2021

games going on concurrently, with new matches starting approximately every 30 minutes. Standings can be found at www.margatehasmore.com with winners receiving 2 points, losers receiving 1 point and an overall point differential used for playoff seeding and tiebreakers. The regular season will conclude Monday June 7 (weather permitting) and all teams will qualify for the playoffs and seeded based on points accumulated.

The final four teams will automatically be qualified for the cornhole tournament at Beachstock with $1000 up for grabs for the winners. A summer league will start play on July 12 and registrations will be accepted soon at the MBA website; cost per team is $80 and includes a tee shirt.

For more information on how to become a sponsor or more details about league play, contact mba@margatehasmore.com.

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Pickleball Anyone?

Sport grows in popularity during pandemic

By Krystle J. Bailey

T

he latest craze in sports usually has newcomers asking, “What in the world is pickleball?!”

A game created by three dads in 1965 out of necessity is now an increasingly popular sport for athletes of all ages. Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum are credited with the creation of the sport during a summer when their children had become bored of regular summertime activities.

Pickleball has since grown in popularity, originally in Canada and now spread widely across the United States. Pickleball is a creative combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong and can be played indoors or out. The game is played on a badminton-size court with a slightly modified tennis net along with paddles and a porous ball.

The sport’s popularity has expanded rapidly in recent years with now over 85,000 known places to play in the United States. In Atlantic

County, Pickleball enthusiThe game is simple and is asts need to look no further very much like tennis. Each than AC Pickleball. match is played to 11 but playAC Pickleball is a local ers must win by two points. group of players who acThe game follows 5 basic rules: tively play, teach, and spread ● The ball must stay inthe word about Pickleball. bounds.

Players range from school● There should be one aged kids to retirees and bounce per side. everywhere in between. ● Serving must be done at ACPickleball.com is a hub the baseline. for court locations, tourna● The serve can not land in ments, and training. On the the no-volley zone.

AC Pickleball website, you ● The game ends at 11, 15, or can learn Pickleball basics, 21 points. assess your skill level, and If this sounds confusing, find a local game to jump in don't worry. The pickleball on. community is ready to help The verdict is still out on newcomers and welcome how Pickleball got its name. them to the court.

According to USAPickleball. Rich Baehrle of Northfield enjoys playing pickleball with his wife So, try something new this org, there are two different and friends. summer. Get outside, grab a accounts. John Pritchard’s paddle, and jump into a game wife Joan apparently referred to the According to Barney McCalof pickleball. Visit ACpickleball.com game as pickleball as an ode to the lum, the game was named after for courts and training or visit AC combination of games that Pickleball Pritchard's dog Pickles who would Pickleball on Facebook. is made of. According to Joan, the often steal the game ball. name came from a reference to the Whatever the true history of the Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia pickle boat in crew, which is a boat name may be, the undeniable truth journalist, Author, Poet made up of leftover oarsmen from is that pickleball phenomenon is not KrystleJBailey.com slowing down anytime soon. other boats.

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When the Love is Gone: How to Care for Daffodils and Tulips After They Have Stopped Blooming

By Tammy Thornton

D

affodils are the harbingers of spring. We see their yellow and white trumpets and know that winter is ending and better days are ahead. While daffodils are at their peak, tulips emerge and flaunt their colorful and sometimes dramatic blooms. But beauty is fleeting. As the days grow warmer, the flowers will fade. What is one to do with the spent flowers and unsightly leaves?

Most flowers, left to their own, will begin to produce seeds as they fade.

If you love tulips and daffodils, that sounds like a good thing. More seeds mean more plants next year, right?

Not exactly. In the case of daffodils, and even more so with tulips, the effort the plant expends to produce

Give spent tulips a little care and they will reward you will beautiful blooms the following spring seed will rob energy from the bulb.

If you’d like to improve your chances of having those tulips bloom the following spring, you want the bulb in the ground to gain as much energy as possible now. Once tulips are finished blooming, cut the flowers only off just below the base of the flower.

You can do the same for daffodils, which are quick to produce seed heads. Simply snip these off. How-

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Once tulip blooms have faded, cut the flowers at the base but leave the foliage to supply nutrients to the bulb.

ever, for both types of plants, do not cut the stem or leaves since these are necessary to give nutrients back to the bulbs.

Resist the urge to cut the foliage, even if it becomes unsightly. The process only takes a few weeks. Once the leaves become yellow or brown, and limp, you can cut them to the ground. If your clumps of daffodils have become too large, this would be a good time to divide them using a spade. Tulips should not need to be divided.

Keep your bulbs in the soil through the winter as they need the period of cold and dormancy to bloom in the spring. Cover the soil with mulch

and mark the spot where they are planted so that you can work a slow release fertilizer into the soil in the fall.

In the spring, these simple tasks should reward you with beautiful blooms to enjoy.

Shore Local News would love to hear about your tulip and daffodil tips. Share your gardening stories and pictures with the: Shorelocalgardener@gmail.com.

Tammy Thornton is a mom of four, a substitute teacher, and a Sunday school teacher. She is passionate about gardening and cooking, and loves the beach.

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Day of the Night Heron

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(photos by Hien Nguyen)

he rookery at the Ocean City Welcome Center is home to newly hatched Night Herons… So adorable!

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1. Black-crowned Night Heron.

2. Female heron: “What took you so long?” Note that one egg still had not hatched.

3. Male heron passing twig to female.

4. Yellow-crowned Night Herons planning redecoration 5. While he flew away to look for other twigs, she tidied up their nest.

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Weather Getting WARMER & Real Estate Getting HOTTER REAL ESTATE DONE RIGHT Elisa Jo Eagan Trust the Name You Know!

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A Special Invitation to our "Italian Night" Dinner

9 Things to Consider Before (and During) the Mortgage Application

By Christy Murdock Edgar and Elisa Jo Eagan of Balsley Losco Real Estate

W

hen most people think about buying a home, they think about neighborhoods, paint colors, and wish lists, not paycheck stubs and closing costs. However, in reality you’ll probably find that mortgage application and approval is one of the more time and energy-consuming aspects of the purchase process. Work your way through this list to make sure you are better prepared for the months ahead and the journey to the closing table.

Check (and Repair) Your Credit When you first start thinking about buying a home, you’ll want to do a deep dive into your credit. Check with each of the big three reporting agencies (TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax) since each may have different information. If there are errors on your reports, reach out with correc-

tions and required information.

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Look for programs that report your current rent and utility payments to the credit bureaus so that you can use your on-time payment record to build your credit score.

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If you have damaged credit, work on paying down existing debt and making on-time payments going forward. If you pay your rent and utilities on time, seek out reporting programs to allow you to use your positive payment history to rebuild your credit score. ● As you pay off credit cards and loans, don’t close out the accounts.

Leave them open and at a zero balance, or use them for occasional, small purchases that you then pay off immediately. Part of your credit score comes from the length of time that you have had your accounts, so closing out an older account can have a negative impact.

Organize Your Financial Records One of the biggest things you’ll have to do during the process of applying for your home loan is obtaining and providing a wide variety of financial records to submit to underwriting. Start gathering these now. When you apply, you’ll need the following: ● Tax returns (generally two-year’s worth) ● Pay stubs, 1099s, W-2s or other proof of income ● Bank statements and other asset statements ● Photo ID If you are using gift funds from a family member to finance your down payment, closing costs, or reserves, ●

you will need to present a letter from that donor. The lender may request additional documentation, as well.

Be sure to find out what donors and uses are acceptable for your particular situation.

Find a Lender You will need to find a lender to work with on your mortgage application. You may find someone at your local bank or credit union, through an online lending platform, through a referral from a friend, or through your real estate professional. Make sure that you feel comfortable working with and communicating with your chosen lender so that you will feel confident throughout the process.

Consider a Variety of Loan Options Don’t feel locked into a conventional, 30-year loan with a 20 percent down payment. While that scenario works for some buyers, it doesn’t work for everyone. Work with your lender to determine what types of financing options you qualify for and what types of financing will help you fulfill your goals.

For example, if you are open to a larger monthly payment, you may find that a 15-year loan makes more sense than a 30-year loan. Just remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Get Pre-Approved It will be important for you to work with your lender to obtain pre-approval before you begin looking for your home. This will allow you to better determine your budget and timeline. In addition, pre-approval helps you to make a stronger offer once you find the right home for you.

Determine Your Budget Once you know how much you’ll potentially be approved for and what your interest rate will be, you can create a budget based on your down payment and your desired monthly payment amount. Remember, just because you qualify for a large amount doesn’t mean that you will want to spend that much. Let your comfort level determine your budget.

Don’t Forget the Extras Remember, you don’t just pay the monthly mortgage and required down payment. There is an earnest money deposit (EMD) that you will need

to have available as well as reserve funds that you will need to show.

You’ll have closing costs, insurance costs, and other expenses associated with moving and setting yourself up in your new home. Try to keep an eye on the big picture when making your decisions during this time.

Avoid Major Purchases and Changes to Your Credit You may want a brand new car to park in your new driveway or a houseful of new furniture and decorative items. While it would be fun to have those things in place on moving day, you’ll probably need to hold off until after the closing. That’s because changes to your credit report or to the amount of debt you carry can have major negative consequences on your mortgage underwriting and approval process.

Expect the Unexpected A lot of things can happen on the journey to homeownership. You may find that your budget is different than you thought or that you have to make some compromises along the way.

You may also find that some parts of the process you dreaded turn out to be easier than those things you thought were no-brainers. Stay open and stay in communication with your reliable real estate agent or broker to ensure that you are always in the best position to make good decisions.

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The Digital Divide: Atlantic City, Education and Covid 19. Part Two started preparing almost immediately to find ways to reopen safely and to help the young members cope. Loreal Chrisp started off as a volunteer but now works at The Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City full time. Ms. Chrisp is also a mother of two boys.

I asked Chrisp how the members in her charge reacted to virtual learning? “Our kids hated it. But we really pushed them and offered an opportunity to complete school work and get the help they needed right at the club. Ms. Chrisp’s opinion of the Chrome Books issued is that the computers were not up to par.

Ms. Chrisp also did not give positive remarks on the access to the internet by way of hotspots. So I asked her to comment on how her own children did with virtual learning? “Well we were on our boys from the gate.” Ms. Chrisp began. “They all did really well but it was definitely a struggle. For them not to be in class and seeing their friends ... the lack of socializing was hard on them too.”

For many single parents however, in Atlantic City, The Boys and Girls Club was and remains a key place for

The Light with Raymond Tyler

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he only places open during the later part of March 2020 and early April 2020, were hospitals and the grocery stores. Unfortunately for the youth of Atlantic City, The Atlantic City Boys and Girls Club closed as well. The Atlantic City Boys and Girls Clubs have been a safe haven for generations of Atlantic City Youth. The Atlantic City Boys and Girls Club have offered city youth everything from food and comfort to recreation to educational programs to camps and summer/seasonal/permanent employment. So when “The Club '' was forced to close due to CoronaVirus, the youth of Atlantic City suffered more loss, on top of losing school and perhaps family members to the virus. The staff at “The Club”

young people to go where there is adult supervision.

For students that may have had to figure out a way to zoom live or after the actual live class; The Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City spaced out time for each group to use computers, learn other skills and also get a good meal. I asked Ms. Chrisp about the access to computers at “The Club?” “Everyone of our campuses have laptops and are equipped with the internet but our Teen Center and Chelsea clubs have new Apple computer upgrades.”

Ms. Chrisp, during our talk discussed an uptick in neighborhood violence as well as lack of cooperation from city government in helping get the word out that The Boys and Girls Club was an open resource to the community. Atlantic City was already a food dessert before Covid-19 closings so I asked; “Why is it important to The Atlantic City Boys and Girls Clubs to make sure that your members are well fed as well as safe?” Ms. Chrisp answered. “Many of our community kids do not get a hot meal. Or they are part of a huge family, so meals

are portioned and with the pandemic being as tough as it has been on food banks, many of our kids didn’t even have food at home. Lots of our parents hadn’t received unemployment and lost their jobs. So we just knew we had to feed our kids. It’s important to us that we feed our kids and often we make enough to supply them with second helpings if they choose.”

I asked Ms. Chrisp, what can Atlantic City do to help The Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City help their members? She stated the members just need “Love and support.”

Lastly, she shared that the education and bridging the gap of the digital divide was more than just school, laptops and internet and included the whole community. “We hosted some college professors and AtlanticCare professionals via zoom and just really did our best to keep our club kids engaged.”

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

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Spring Cleaning with Kids

Mom's Vibe

By Krystle J. Bailey

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hey say that trying to clean while the kids are home is like brushing your teeth while eating oreos. It is definitely an exercise in futility. ‘Tis the season for Spring cleaning, tidying up, and garage sales. With kids home more than ever, Spring cleaning may seem nearly pointless but don’t give up just yet. Here are a few ideas to get the kids involved and transform “mission impossible” to Mission Mom-Possible!

Alphabetize The Spice Drawer For elementary aged kids, this project serves two purposes. Encourage their language arts skills while also organizing one of those spots that tends to get neglected all year.

Teach your young ones how to look for expiration dates on the spices

and discard the old bottles, then have them organize the spice drawer or cabinet from Adobo to Za’atar.

Cleaning Dance Party Make cleaning a party for the whole family. These are the moments to remember. Spatula microphones and two-stepping your way to a clean kitchen can make Spring cleaning an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Take turns picking the songs and encourage everyone to finish a new task with each new song.

Magic Eraser Investigator A house with kids is a house with fingerprints. Give your kids Magic Erasers and send them on an investigative mission to clean as many smudges and fingerprints off of the wall as they can find. Challenge them to erase all the evidence of the dirty crime and complete the mission.

Finders Keepers Set the piggy banks out on the table and send the kids on a mission for loose change. The only way they get to keep it is to clean the area in which they found it. Have them replace couch cushions, switch the laundry, organize a dresser drawer, or clean out a junk drawer and let them keep whatever loose change they find along the way. Instant gratification.

Ice Skate for Dust Bunnies Forget boring Swiffer dusting.

Throw the Swiffer dusters on your feet and go “ice skating” for dust bunnies. Put on some music and skate away. Encourage the kids to return the Swiffer duster with the most dirt for a small reward.

Pick Up All the Blue Things Create mini challenges for the younger kids who feel overwhelmed by the thought of mass cleaning.

Start with picking up all the blue things then move to each color as

each mini challenge is complete. You can also try “pick up all the cars” or “pick up all the books” rather than asking them to simply clean a room.

Celebrate with each completed task or offer a mini reward such as one handful of M&Ms with every task.

Plan a Garage Sale and Donation Bag Pick a date and plan ahead for a garage sale. Encourage kids to fill bins with things they no longer need or play with. Offer them one bin for things they would like to sell and another for things they would like to donate. Incentivize them to purge toys by letting them use money from the garage sale to buy one new toy.

Kids are generally messy little humans and cleaning around them is nearly impossible. Hopefully these tips for Spring cleaning with your tribe will spark some inspiration in your home and get your cleaning on the right track. Use it as bonding time and the opportunity to create traditions while instilling good habits.

Happy Cleaning!

Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet KrystleJBailey.com

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Showboat's Lucky Snake Arcade and Sports Bar to become AC's new entertainment venue

Going Places with Dina Guzzardo

A

tlantic City’s hottest new destination is opening May 15th at the Showboat (801 Boardwalk), and this is one for the entire family to enjoy.

The first-of-its-kind Lucky Snake Arcade and Sports Bar is set to take the boardwalk by storm this summer as you can find a new arcade, sports bar, performance stages, and more, all under one roof. This follows the recent explosion in non-casino entertainment in Atlantic City as they aim to provide more family-friendly destinations to get business booming again at the shore.

Lucky Snake’s unique take on family attractions is their provision of multiple different forms of entertainment in one venue. This includes

New Jersey’s largest arcade at over 100,000 square feet, a sports bar with a boxing ring, indoor venues for live entertainment, a speakeasy, and some of the biggest and best convention and meeting spaces in the city.

The arcade is comparable to some of the larger arcade chains, but with incredible prizes. So, if you think you have the skills to take on the world’s largest crane game which is a floor high, virtual reality, basketball themedgames, pinball, and skee ball to name a few, you may be in with a chance of winning an all-inclusive vacation.

However, for those who may be less gifted in the art of skee ball, the prizes are nothing to shy away from, with designer bags, jewelry, and candy. Packages will be available for the arcade including unlimited game play or game play with food and drinks included. The packages on offer make it a great option for a family day where you can let the kids play a few games while you enjoy a few apps and a cold

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beer. For those without kids though, the adult only hours start from 9:00 pm.

An incredible 25,000 square foot sports bar including an e-sports gaming area and a 20x20 foot boxing ring will provide non-stop entertainment 7-days a week. Lucky Snake is also set to be the best live entertainment space in the city as it provides a venue for music and street performances.

Possibly the most exciting aspect of Lucky Snake is the launch of the only speakeasy in Atlantic City which will also feature the world-famous Riviera sign straight from the Las Vegas strip. This is a groundbreaking introduction for the city as it will provide an amazing destination for artists to perform and patrons to enjoy an expectedly crafted cocktail.

Lucky Snake will also provide convention and meeting spaces for businesses who like the idea of work and play under one roof. They are able to curate VIP and customized group experiences for anyone interested in taking clients or conducting business in an environment which is more relaxed than your typical meeting space. For information on booking a space when they open, e-mailinfo@ theluckysnake.com or call 609-4874652.

The venture is the brainchild of renowned business mogul and CEO of Tower Investments, Bart Blatstein.

Blatstein stated, “This is a very exciting time for us. We at Tower Investments are extremely proud of this hotel and are thrilled to further expand on its offerings for guests of all ages, especially families. It has always been our mission to deliver an unforgettable experience for our guests and we

are delighted to bring a family-friendly and year-round resort option to Atlantic City.” This excitement has not been lost within the community, and the hype surrounding the opening of Lucky Snake is no secret, with many potential customers expressing their excitement on the venue’s Facebook page. Their first post announcing the grand opening has been commented on by over 1,000 people, with everyone welcoming the prospect of such a new concept coming to Atlantic City.

This is a venue to get excited about. In what has been a turbulent year of having to stay inside and being limited with options for fun, Lucky Snake is exactly what we all need in our lives. A place to go and relax, enjoy live music, and play a range of arcade games, with the 80s games bringing back feelings of nostalgia for some. So, mark your calendars and book your stay at the Showboat for the opening weekend, because I guarantee this will be the most talked about opening of the year. Bringing such an interesting idea to Atlantic City is going to bring a buzz like no other, and I guarantee you will not want to miss out. For more information, you can keep up to date on their Facebook or Instagram pages (@theluckysnake) or website (www. luckysnake.com). I’ll see you there!

Dina Guzzardo is the President and Executive Promoter of Dina Media Group LLC. Dina Media Group is an innovative cutting edge event production and marketing company that produces and promotes large events as well as a talent agency that manages some incredible talent. www.dinamediagroup.com

MAY 6, 2021

Extra Points with Pete

Sports & Entertainment

By Pete Thompson

“May the FOURTH be with you!”

A

s I write this, it’s May the 4th, which is traditionally a day to celebrate all things “Star Wars." However, I think I’ll use it as a day to celebrate all things Philly and South Jersey sports to start off the month of May. How does that sound?

In fact, as I write this, the Phillies, Flyers and Sixers all won last night.

That’s the first time that has happened since 2012!

Since I last wrote, the Eagles made a move up in the 2021 NFL draft and got a potential superstar. The Birds finish with nine picks total, and as always, there are a few question marks about some of the picks in the draft.

The Phillies appear to have renewed a rivalry with one of the teams in the N.L. East, and continue to lose one run ballgames. The Sixers have quietly put together a five-game win-

American TV is saying goodbye to his traditional format & TV show.

Plus, I watched a drama on Amazon Prime that I had high hopes for, but it ultimately fell short. As always though, we begin with sports, and my thoughts: ● We’ll start with the Eagles as they actually moved UP two spots in the first round of the NFL draft to land the Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith from Alabama.

What’s crazy is the team they traded with to move up two spots, and that’s the Dallas Cowboys.

When did you ever think the Eagles would make a deal with their hated division rival? But the Birds send a 3rd round pick (that they got in the Carson Wentz trade) to Dallas for the chance to move up two spots and ultimately land Smith. ● The Eagles moved ahead of the New York Giants by moving to ten, and all signs looked like the G-men might take Smith, so I think this was a good move on their part. DeVonta Smith was a guy I “fell in love” with during the national championship game, and even though some folks think he’s undersized (6-0, 166 lbs.), I think he will be a roaring success in the NFL. Hey, think of it this way, “You can’t hit what you can’t catch!”

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Roger Goodell & DeVonta Smith / NFL media ning streak. The Flyers will NOT be in the playoffs once again, and wait until you hear the unceremonious stat they accomplished by failing to make the playoffs this season. On the local front, three guys with local ties are doing great things in professional baseball. Plus, an area high school pitcher has a chance to make some baseball history this summer.

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The Eagles began the draft with 11 picks, and ended up with nine new players. Other than Smith, four of the remaining eight players chosen project to either the offensive or defensive line. In the second round, 37th overall, the Eagles took Landon Dickerson out of Alabama. On the upside, he could be a better version of Ja-

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son Kelce, who has already been great. However, he comes with a risk because of multiple injuries in college. This pick concerns me as I still remember when the Birds took an injured Sidney Jones in Round 2 with the idea that he was really a Round 1 pick. To date, Jones has never fully realized that potential, even now that he’s with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

I can’t talk about the draft without discussing the Eagles and their front office. Howie Roseman was criticized heavily leading up to the draft, and on draft night, ESPN cameras captured 74-yearold senior advisor Tom Donahoe apparently disgusted that the Eagles traded down three spots in the third round and ultimately drafting Milton Williams from Louisiana Tech. Reporters speculated that Donahoe was upset that the Giants were able to land corner Aaron Robinson, but Roseman hinted in a radio interview that Donahoe was disappointed the Eagles didn’t get N.C. State defensive tackle Alim McNeill, who went to the Lions at 72 overall. I would’ve liked to see the Eagles stay put in the 3rd round and get a corner, but they did ultimately take Zech MacPhearson from Texas Tech in the fourth round, 123rd overall.

So, what’s my final “grade” for the Eagles 2021 draft? Well, individual grades always need to play out, but for how they handled the draft, I think you have to give the Eagles an “A”. They finally took the impact receiver who also happened to be the Heisman Trophy winner. Howie Roseman read the board correctly a month before things even began to get a first

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round pick next year out of Miami.

There’s a good probability that the Eagles will have three first round picks next year, and THAT’S how you build a team back up.

To baseball now, where last week I wrote about how the Phillies can’t seem to climb above the .500 mark. That pattern has continued, but fortunately, the rest of the N.L. East is also struggling as well. That said, it appears that one rivalry has been reignited as the Mets and Phillies had a bench clearing dust up in their game last Friday night at Citizens Bank Park.

Jose Alvarado struck out Dominic Smith to end the 8th inning and then gestured repeatedly at Smith while walking off the mound. The Mets (and Smith) had seen enough, and both benches emptied, but no punches were thrown. This is the kind of Mets-Phillies rivalry I like to see! Obviously I don’t want anyone fighting or to get hurt, but when I was a kid, this was the kind of anger & passion these two teams had. Ultimately Alvarado got a two game suspension for his actions, but I like to see bad blood between the two teams. Sports are competitive. You should NOT be the best of friends between the lines!

My other take on the Phillies is how close a lot of their games have been of late. As of this writing, each of their last five games was decided by one run. Again, as of this writing, six of their 15 losses were by one run. Again, the good news is that no team is really running away with the N.L. East, so as long as the Phillies hang around, they have a chance.

In basketball, last time I wrote about how much the Sixers missed Ben Simmons. Well, all they’ve

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a discouraging graphic on the done since his return is win five games in a row and open up a one postgame show the other night game lead over Brooklyn for the concerning the Flyers. Titled “A #1 seed for the playoffs. Their 113Historic Decade”, the graphic 111 win in overtime in San Antonio showed how the Flyers have alcame on a Simmons tip-in and it's ternated between the playoffs and not a stretch to say it might've missing the playoffs every year been the biggest win of the Sixers' since 2012. By missing the playoffs season to this point. this year, the Flyers become the Simmons did not have a good first team in NHL, NBA, NFL or game. He finished with five points MLB history to alternate playoffs on six shots and was largely insig& non-playoff years for 10 straight nificant even on the margins all seasons. Wow. Just think about night. The Sixers led by 17 points that. A decade of playoffs vs. in the first quarter and let it get non-playoff teams for the Orange & Black. Can you see why I’m just away. But all is forgotten after Simmons tipped in the game-winhoping for some consistency out ning bucket as time expired. The of the hockey team?

Sixers now have a onegame lead in the loss column and that’s big because for the Nets, the No. 1 seed has appeared to be an afterthought.

Their priority is getting healthy. But for the Sixers, the No. 1 seed is a big deal as it likely means avoiding the No. 3 Bucks in the second round.

For the second column in a row, I’ve left the Flyers for last. They were mathematically eliminated from the playoffs by the lowly Devils. Their last glimmer of hope is to DeVonta Smith / NFL media play the role of “spoiler” as they can help the Washington ● My last sports items are all from Capitals get the top seed in the baseball and they all concern loEast instead of in-state rival Pittscal athletes competing on a big burgh. Playing loose & without stage. I’ll start with Oakcrest Grad pressure, Claude Giroux had two and Cumberland County College goals, including an empty-netter, alum Cody Stashak as he is back and an assist as the Flyers ended with the Minnesota Twins and a three-game losing streak with wearing #61 out of their bullpen. a 7-2 blowout win over the PenThe 26-year-old is married to his guins at home. The Flyers had lost high school sweetheart Taylor and three straight against the Devils, they have a young boy Colton who but bounced back to win by five turns one in June. What a great and improve their record to 5-2 picture Taylor shared with me and against their archrivals this seaon Facebook of young Colton and son.

Mom getting to see where Dad No matter how you slice it though, “works." Stashak is a real success the Flyers have been a major ↘Continued on 42 disappointment. In fact, I saw

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story from our area as he wasn’t heavily promoted or hyped coming out of high school. He used his time at Cumberland County College to attract the attention of Division One programs, and ultimately landed with St. John’s. His time there brought major league scouts calling, and he’s now a local guy pitching in the “big leagues."

Elsewhere on the pitching front, I’ve been writing about Egg Harbor Township native Mike Adams as his magical journey has taken him from the Atlantic County Baseball League (ACBL) and the Margate Hurricanes last summer, all the way to a pro contract with the Phillies organization this summer.

Adams and Ed Charlton run the Baseball Performance Center in Pleasantville, but Adams is going to be away from the business for a little longer as the Phillies have assigned him to their High-A affiliate in Lakewood. Now called the “Jersey Shore” BlueClaws, Adams will now ply his trade just about an hour north up the Garden State Parkway in Lakewood.

Don’t forget about 2014 St. Augustine graduate Zach Warren either. The 24-year-old spent 2019 with the Clearwater Threshers, and he’s been assigned to the

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Joel Embiid fist taps Smith / John Clark Facebook

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Double-A Reading Fightin Phils.

The minor league season begins on Tuesday May 11th. Remember, there were no minor league games at all last year because of the pandemic.

Lastly, I need to get out and see Mainland ace Chase Petty throw the baseball. The Somers Point resident is off to a 2-0 start to the high school season with a 1.00 ERA. He threw a no-hitter last time out! Every game, there are major league scouts in attendance, and he might end up being

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sent him everywhere from Italy to Greenland to Korea — in some form on TBS. He'll also re-emerge on HBO Max with a variety-style series down the road. And O'Brien cohosts the podcast “Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend," which premiered in 2018. I love Sona!

I’ll close with an update about “Without Remorse” on Amazon Prime. Based on the 1993 novel by Tom Clancy, and a spin-off of the Jack Ryan book & film series, I so much wanted to love this movie.

But I did NOT. Michael B. Jordan was great in the lead role, but the entire plot of the movie and pacing

In front of Galloway Shoprite Corner of Jimmy Leeds & Pitney Rd.

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drafted higher than a guy named Mike Trout was way back in 2009. Petty has committed to the University of Florida but is expected to be selected in the MLB draft to be held July 11th in Denver. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound senior routinely hits 100 miles per hour or more on the radar gun. I can’t wait to get out and see him throw in person!

Stay tuned.

Colton, Taylor and Cody Stashak / Courtesy: Taylor Stashak As always, I’ll close with a few items from enterjust seemed way to long and drawn tainment as Conan O'Brien will out. I’m not sure I’m even excited host his TBS late-night talk show now about “Rainbow Six”, which “Conan” for the last time on June will be the sequel to this movie.

24th, the network announced.

The weather is getting warmer, The shows leading up to his grand so I’ll close with my reminder to keep farewell will feature all sorts of wearing those masks and staying special guests, culminating in an socially distant please. I’m “fully vaccihour-long finale that will celenated” and a bunch of you are as well. brate the last 11 years of “Conan" However, let’s not trip up so close to the “goal line." Keep staying safe and O'Brien has a history far beyond “Conan," of course; he's currently following the protocols and I sincerely the longest-tenured late-night hope that a GREAT summer is ahead host on American TV, having for all of us! assumed the reins of NBC's Late Night franchise following David Pete has been the local "sports Letterman's departure to CBS in guy" at the Jersey Shore since 1993. He staked out that slot with 2004. After a decade with TV 40, he joined 97.3 ESPN radio to talk clever comedy for 16 years before Eagles, Phillies, Sixers & Flyers with a brief stint hosting “The Tonight Mike Gill on "The SportsBash" each Show” in 2009. In 2010, he started day from 2-6 p.m. anew on cable with Conan. I’ve Pete is proud to be a "voice" for always liked Conan O’Brien, but the annual ShopRite LPGA Classic each June, and does emcee work not enough to follow him to cable for groups like the National Football when he went that route in 2010.

Foundation, The Old Grad Awards, To be honest, I see his clips on my and The 200 Club of Atlantic phone now more than anything, County. You can hear Pete each and laugh at them still, so I will Tuesday on 97.3 ESPN at 5:30p, and if you see him out & about in miss him. the community, he requests that Thankfully, O’Brien will continue you please say "Hi". Send comments his popular “Conan Without Borto PBrooksT@aol.com der” travel specials — which have

MAY 6, 2021

To Splurge or To Save?

By Nikki Myers of Passion Vines

F

ar too often, I hear that someone resisted falling down the wine rabbit hole because they “couldn’t afford it." Perceptions of the wine world contributes to this fallacy – many imagine us sipping our wine with upturned noses, chuckling haughtily at the peasants and pitying their poor, uncultured souls. Thankfully, those of us who live and breathe wine know this is FAR from reality. While there are plenty of splurge-worthy bottles out there, they’re rarer than you may think, and far from necessary. The trick is knowing when to splurge, and when to go for the bargain instead.

What makes some wine so expensive, anyway? For the most part, it’s the same stuff that makes anything else expensive; quality materials cost more, certain

techniques are more labor-intensive, and overhead costs are higher in some regions. But, akin to designer clothing, sometimes its just the name on the bottle or some novelty that you’re paying for.

Here’s a rule of thumb to help tell the difference: if most similar bottles on the shelf are inexpensive, and there’s just one or two going for a small fortune, splurging on that wine won’t get you much better quality. In most cases, if the style of wine truly demands more money to make, you can trust the shelf to show you.

For example, Napa Cabernet options will average $30 on the low end anywhere you go. If you follow this cardinal rule, you can [accurately] guess that these are a good place to shell out some bigger bucks. If it were me, I wouldn’t hesitate to throw $34.99 at Truchard Carneros Cabernet, or $29.99 at Kith & Kin, because I know the juice justifies it.

On the contrary, you’ll often see a large selection of inexpensive Pinot Grigio – most under $12! While I see people spending

$20+ on the “elite” big-name options every day, I can’t name a single time I’ve ever had a Pinot Grigio above twenty bucks that was ACTUALLY better than the $12 option. As tasty as it is, Pinot Grigio is just easy. It doesn’t demand to be gently hand-harvested or kept within strict temperature brackets, and certainly doesn’t need to be aged. Materials and labor are

low-cost, which means your cost can stay low without compromising any quality. Grab a bottle of Alverdi PG for $8.69, or ERA for $10.99, and you’re good!

Some grapes, on the other hand, are what I call “diva grapes”.

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay – lookin at you! These guys pose unique and costly challenges to winemakers. They have very specific climate needs, and are prone to rot and disease if mishandled. For these reasons, I usually save these varietals for my treat-yo’self-days.

While you can find an O.K. Chard or Pinot Noir for $15, it’s never going to come close to the magic those grapes can really do. Save elsewhere and then snag something like Panthera Chardonnay ($29.99) or Girardin Volnay Burgundy ($51.99) when you’re looking to upgrade.

A splurge bottle looks different for everybody – for some it’s $20, for others it’s $50. Regardless, most of us can’t afford to spoil ourselves often, and we deserve some serious bang for our buck when we do. When in doubt, just shoot me an email or ask for me at Passion Vines – Nmyers@passionvines.com. Cheers!

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Safe Returns: How to Release a Fish

L

earning how to fish involves more than catching fish. At some point, all anglers will be faced with the need to return fish they are not allowed to keep to the water, due to size, season, creel limits, or local catch-and-release fishing regulations.

Mastering the task of fish release by following the steps in this section will give you confidence that you know how to release fish in a way to protect fish populations for future generations of anglers.

You might be asking yourself, "What’s the best way to handle fish to ensure they survive release?" Whether or not they do largely depends on the angler. Learning how to release fish from a hook takes practice in general. Understanding how to handle fish and how to release fish in a conservation-friendly manner are the first few steps you can take to help promote fishing conservation. ● Use wet hands when handling a fish or a knotless rubberized landing nets (and rubberized - not cotton- gloves if you must wear gloves). This helps maintain the slime coat on the fish, which protects it from infection and aids in swimming.

Anglers that know how to practice proper catch and release never use a towel of

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any kind when handling fish since a towel can remove this slime coat.

Hold the fish horizontally whenever possible since this is the way fish naturally swim through the water. Do not drop the fish onto hard surfaces!

Keep your fingers away from the gills and eyes of the fish.

If needed, use a release tool (dehookers, recompression tools) to minimize handling.

Time is of the essence! Release fish as soon as practical and do not keep them out of the water longer than necessary.

Try to release your fish gently head first into the water, which helps push water through the mouth and over the gills, and helps to resuscitate the fish. Revive exhausted fish by placing the fish in the water, facing the current if possible, with one hand underneath the belly and the other hand holding the bottom lip or tail.

Know the current fishing regulations that apply to the state where you are fishing and learn how to accurately measure fish in order to abide by the regulations.

By following fishing regulations you are building and conserving our state fish populations for future generations of anglers.

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45

Cremation: A History of the Practice. (Part 2)

By Andrew Hoffman

T

he first in the U.S. crematory was based on the same unit shown at the Vienna Exposition in Europe by Brian

DePalm.

When a business developer went to a local cemetery and proposed a venture to build his crematory on their land they turned him away in disgust. A New York Times reporter who witnessed the a cremation was horrified writing “If DePalm could have foreshadowed the startling scenes his poor bones would have gone through he would have thought twice before he jumped into the fire”. Anti-cremationists made the argument that cremation would encourage crime because you could not exhume a cremated body, as well as dismissed the public health claims that ground burial encouraged the spread of epidemics (of which there is no evidence). Of course, there were

the religious leaders that dismissed cremation as a pagan ritual and denied the resurrection to come. These debates raged through the American newspapers for decades. In 1884 the first public crematory opened up in Lancaster, PA and as was true of many early crematories, it was owned and operated by a cremation society called the Lancaster Cremation and Funeral Reform Society. By 1900, 20 more crematories had opened in cities such as Cincinnati, Buffalo, New York, Pittsburgh, Detroit, and Los Angeles. In 1913 Dr. Hugo Erichsen founded the Cremation Association of America and by then there were 52 crematories operating in the United States performing over 10,000 cremations a year.

By the early 20th century the sensationalism of the cremation process was calming down and cremation as a form of disposition was winning over people. By 1975 cremation in the United States totaled 6.55% of the deaths in this country and as of 2020 that percentage has risen to 56.2%.

So now you have a brief history

of cremation and now let’s discuss the different types of cremation. Currently in the funeral industry there are three main types of cremation. There is Full-Service Cremation, Cremation Memorial Service and Direct Cremation. Obviously, there are differences between these forms of cremation but the act of burning the human remains to ash is the end result of each of them.

Full-service cremation is really very much like a traditional burial service with one major difference, instead of turning right to go to the cemetery you turn left to go to the crematory.

With a full service cremation you can

still have a viewing with the body being embalmed, or not embalmed if that is the family’s preference, you can still have a funeral service at the church, funeral home or any other venue and have a luncheon after the service. But as mentioned above instead of going to the cemetery to bury the body after the funeral is finished the deceased is taken to the crematory to be cremated. The deceased in question will either be in a rental cremation casket or what is called a single use cremation casket. The rental casket basically has an interior the slides out with the deceased inside and the interior case goes into the crematory to be cremated. The single use cremation caskets are caskets specifically designed for cremation and they hold the deceased as he/she is cremated. Following the cremation, the ashes are then place in the urn that the family has selected.

The urn is then given back to the family to keep, buried, place in a columbarium nitch or scattered.

Andrew B. Hoffman is a funeral director at Jeffries and Keates and Keates-Plum Funeral Homes.

He is a twenty-two year veteran of the funeral industry.

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These Attractions are Long Gone 1

2

3

What Were They Named Back In The Day?

48

5

6

ANSWERS 1. Diving Bell at Atlantic City's Steel Pier 2. Shore Mall in Egg Harbor Twp. 3. 59th Street Pier in Ocean City 4. Sindia Shipwreck off the Ocean City Beach 5. Brigantine Castle 6. The Sands Casino in Atlantic City

4

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OPEN FROM 11AM CLOSED MONDAY

609-645-0500 THEME: MOTHER'S DAY

SUDOKU Solution on page 50

ACROSS 1. May occasion 5. ____ Tzu 8. Auto unit 11. Lyft alternative 12. "On Golden ____" 13. Zetkin of International Women's Day fame 15. Forever and a day 16. "The Simpsons" palindrome 17. Angler's decoys 18. *Mother, e.g.

20. Friend in war 21. Divided, it cannot stand?

22. Black gold 23. *Mother, e.g.

26. Like anti-cruelty proponents 29. "This land is your land..."

30. Loan shark 33. *Like Old Mother Hubbard's cupboard 35. "Captain Marvel" genre 37. It also rises, in Spanish 38. Faulkner's "As I Lay ____" 39. Ant construction 40. "Not my brother's ____" 42. First Tudor monarch's number 43. Meteorologist's line 45. Battles royal 47. Modus operandi 48. Chocolate source 50. Barrymore or Carey 52. *Like grandmother on mother's side 55. Like Al Yankovic 56. Gaelic 57. Joie de vivre 59. On pins and needles 60. *She played Zuzu's mom in Christmas movie classic 61. Left to a Russian 62. Pastrami partner 63. Greek H 64. One quarter of a Presidential term

DOWN 1. *School org. with moms (and dads) as members 2. Indian music 3. Farm team 4. Pool hall mishap 5. Powerball, e.g.

6. Playwright Chekhov 7. Perfume property 8. Lime-rich soil 9. Mouse to a snake 10. Fossil fuel 12. Accepted truths 13. Request to Geico 14. *Mother's song 19. Tedium 22. "Days of ____ Lives" 23. *Delivery room word 24. Binary digits code 25. Train runners 26. *What many mothers want 27. Lacking guile 28. "Sesame Street" regular 31. Olympic cast-out 32. Future fish 34. Shining armor 36. *Form of thank you to mom 38. Gloomy and drab 40. Jared's competitor 41. Hosted 44. Off-color 46. With nobody to call your own 48. Editor's insert 49. Between harbors 50. Controvert 51. *Mother's Day, e.g.

52. *Emmanuel Macron's mom, e.g.

53. Toward shelter, nautically 54. Volcanic flow 55. "The Art of ____" 58. And not See Solution on Page 50

MAY 6, 2021

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Stk# H210195, Vin#: MU091749, 4 dr., 4 cyl., IVT, FWD, p/s/b/w/lks, a/c, Apply Car Play, Rearview Camera, MSRP: $22,050. Lease for $98/mo. for 36 mos. $2,892 down pmt + 1st mo. pmt + $0 sec. dep = $2,990 Due at Signing. Ttl Pmts/Residual: $3,528/$13,010

Stk# H210120, Vin#: MH096099, 4 dr., 4 cyl., 8-speed auto w/ Overdrive, FWD, p/s/b/w/lks, a/c, Apple Car Play, Rearview Camera. MSRP: $24,965. Lease for $109/mo. for 36 mos. $2,881 down pmt + 1st mo. pmt + $0 sec. dep = $2,990 Due at Signing. Ttl Pmts/Residual: $3,924/$15,478.

Stk# H200870, Vin#: LH297420, 4 dr., 4 cyl., 8-speed auto w/ Shiftronic, FWD, p/s/b/w/lks, a/c, Loaded. MSRP: $39,295. Lease for $274/mo. for 36 mos. $2,716 down pmt + 1st mo. pmt + $0 sec. dep = $2,990 Due at Signing. Ttl Pmts/Residual: $9,864/$23,184.

98

$

$2,990 Due at Signing

60 in Stock!

2020 Hyundai

Santa Fe Limited

109

274

$

$

$2,990 Due at Signing

30 in Stock!

*

$2,990 Due at Signing

2019 Hyundai

Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid Limited

SAVE:

9,600†*

$

24,880

Buy $ For

INCLUDES: Lifetime Hybrid Battery Warranty, 5 yr./60K mi.

Bumper to Bumper Warranty, 10 yr./100K mi. Power Train Warranty, 5 yr./Unlimited Mile Roadside Assistance, 52 MPG Combined City & Highway, 119 MPG Electricity & Gasoline w/ 2.4 hrs. House Charge, Blue Link, Android & Apple Car Play, Heated Seats, Push Button Start, SiriusXM Radio.

Among the LARGEST RAM Inventories in South Jersey!

0%

EE ODDGG 0211DDO 2022 CHARGER DURANGO CHALLENGER

IN STOCK NOW

APR

up to 84 Mos.^

6300

$ Up to

Total Savings*^

2021 Ram 1500 Classic Warlock 4X4

247

$

†

/Mo.

36 Mos. Lease 2,990 Due at Signing.

Stk#: T210039, Vin# MS501614, 4 dr., 3.6I 6 cyl., 8-speed auto, 4WD, p/s,p/b, a/c. MSRP: $44,745. Lease for $247/mo. for 36 mos. $2,743 down pmt + 1st mo. pmt + $0 sec. dep = $2,990 due at signing. Ttl pmts/ purch opt: $8,892/$25,505.

6831 Black Horse Pike , Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 HYUNDAI

609-277-3326 • SportHyundaiDodge.com

Vehicle images used for illustration purposes only. HYUNDAI: **90 Day Deferred Payment Program available on select Low APR Programs for up to 60 mos. Cannot be offered on balloon contracts or other irregular payments contracts. Available On approved credit through HMF. *†0% APR up to 72 mos. available on select 2020 Hyundai models. 72 monthly pmts of $13.89/mo. per $1,000 financed. For well qualified buyers through HMF. Down payment will vary. Not available on balloon financing. *Prices plus taxes, tags, $650 aqu. fee, & $398 dealer doc fee. Lease incl. 10K mi/yr. Must qualify Tier 1, 2, or 3 credit approval through HMF. Lessee responsible for excess wear and mileage at $.20/mi. over 30K mi. Must qualify for either First Responder or Military Rebate. †*Stk# H190733, Vin#: KU168199, 4 dr., 4 cyl. 1.6I Hybrid, 6-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch, FWD, p/s/b/w/lks, a/c. List Price: $34,480. Buy for: $24,880. SAVE: $9,600. Prices plus taxes, tags, $650 aqu. fee, & $398 dealer doc fee. On approved credit. DODGE/RAM: ^0% APR for 84 mos. available on select 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn 4x4 models in stock. Example 10% down pmt equals $11.90/mo. per $1,000 financed. For well-qualified buyers through Chrysler Capital. *^Available on select 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn 4x4 models in stock. On approved credit through Chrysler Capital. Includes $2300 Big Horn Package Value (available on vehicles equipped with Big Horn package only), $1250 Retail Consumer Cash, $1000 Retail Bonus Cash, $1250 CCAP Bonus Cash (when financing through Chrysler Capital), $500 Bonus Cash. $6300 Total Savings. Residency restrictions may apply. Not all buyers will qualify. †Prices plus taxes, tags, $650 aqu. fee, & $398 dealer doc fee. Lessee responsible for excess wear and mileage at $.25/mi. over 10K mi/yr. Available only with Tier 1 approved credit financed through Chrysler Capital. Must qualify for all rebates including Returning Lessee w/ Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and either Military or First Responders Rebate. Not all customers will qualify for all offers/discounts. Offers cannot be combined. See dealer for complete details. Offers end 5/31/21.