SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | July 2, 2026

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

Bring Fourth The Fun!

Fireworks and Festivities

State Orders New Takeout Rules

Meet Local Hero Marco Polo

Beginner's Guide to Sur ng Mays Landing's Bull Riding Brothers

There's no better place to celebrate Independence Day

Letter from the editor

This Fourth of July carries special significance as our nation marks its 250th birthday. Across South Jersey, communities will come together to celebrate America's semiquincentennial with parades, concerts, fireworks and family traditions that remind us why this holiday remains one of our most cherished.

There is no better place to celebrate Independence Day than the Jersey Shore. From sunrise walks on the beach to fireworks lighting up the night sky, this weekend captures everything we love about summer. The beaches will be full, boardwalks bustling, restaurants overflowing and neighborhoods decorated in red, white and blue. Children will be chasing waves, building sand castles and racing to eat their ice cream before it melts.

No matter where you are celebrating, Shore local has you covered. Inside this issue you'll find entertainment highlights, community calendars and Fourth of July events happening throughout South Jersey. Don't miss

our Top Weekly Entertainment Picks in the Wahoo center section, the Ocean City Pops' free outdoor concert and drone shows, and our comprehensive "What's Happening in Ocean City" listings, along with dozens of other events across the region. This issue of Shore local is our biggest ever and packed with things to do.

Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly.

As we gather with family and friends, it is also a time to reflect on the freedoms we sometimes take for granted. Independence was earned

Life at The Southern NJ Shore

Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com

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

Publisher Assistant - Julia Train

Copy Editors - James FitzPatrick, Holly Fertsch, Julia Train

Advertising Sales - Meg Perry (609)425-5407 shorelocalmeg@gmail.com

Web Designer - Holly Martin

Contributors – Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Chuck Darrow, Alex Corson, Delaney Crawford, Ursula Duffy, Robin Stoloff, Alanna Stoloff, Tynan Hand, Lisa Segelman, Bruce Klauber

Cover photo provided by the City of Ocean City

through extraordinary sacrifice, and generations of brave men and women have continued to defend those freedoms ever since. We owe them our deepest gratitude. Their service allows us to celebrate in peace with the people we love.

like many Americans, Bob and I have developed an even greater appreciation for our country through the experience of owning a small business. America was founded on the promise of opportunity — the freedom to

worship, to speak openly, to pursue a dream and, through hard work and perseverance, build something meaningful. That spirit continues to inspire entrepreneurs, volunteers and community leaders who make our region such a wonderful place to call home.

Our nation certainly faces challenges, and we don't always agree on the path forward. yet Independence Day reminds us that what unites us is far greater than what divides us. This week, we stand together as Americans, grateful for our freedoms and proud to call this country home.

Thank you for spending part of your summer with Shore local. We are grateful to our readers, advertisers and the local businesses that make this publication possible each week. We encourage you to support the merchants and service providers featured throughout these pages—they truly are the backbone of our community. From all of us at Shore local, have a safe, joyful and memorable Fourth of July. May God bless America.

Peace & Love, Cindy

There is no better place to celebrate Independence Day and beat the heat than the Jersey Shore. Photo by Tom Briglia/PhotoGraphics

Fourth of July Festivities America’s 250th Birthday

Borgata Fireworks Spectacular

▶Friday, July 3, 9:30 p.m.

1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa will host a spectacular fireworks show that will light the night sky across Atlantic City. Produced by Fireworks by Grucci, this 20-minute, musically synchronized display can be viewed from Borgata’s surface lot. Public viewing areas will open at 8:30 p.m. Galloway Township Fourth of July Parade

▶9 a.m.

Smithville Blvd. & Moss Mill Road to Historic Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Road

The parade will begin at the Smithville Square Shopping Center on Smithville Blvd. to Moss Mill Road then past Historic Smithville where the parade will end at the Village Greene. More information is available at www.july4galloway.com.

Linwood Bike Parade

▶10 a.m.

linwood Historical Society Museum, 16 Poplar Avenue

Join the linwood Historical Society and linwood Fire Department for their annual Bike Parade, which will begin and end at the museum. Decorate your bike and stop by the Museum and Fire Department after

the parade for July 4th activities.

Longport American Mile

▶6:30 p.m.

l ongport Fire House, 2305 Atlantic Avenue

The parade will take place along Shore Road from Jackson Avenue to the Burton Avenue Fire Station via Mill Road. Parade participants are welcome to join, including volunteers, community groups, floats, Northfield businesses, and kids on bikes. Rain date: Saturday, July 11.

Ocean City Fourth of July Celebration

▶7 – 9 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a kite flying competition at 7 p.m. next to the Music Pier at Moorlyn Terrace and the beach, followed by entertainment next to the Music Pier. A spectacular boardwalk fireworks

Join the longport Volunteer Fire Department for their annual American Mile. The course will be a point-to-point race, beginning at 11th Avenue and Atlantic Ave, running north on Atlantic to the finish line at Pelham Avenue Sign up at www. longportnj.gov.

Margate Fourth of July Fireworks

Extravaganza

▶9 p.m.

Huntington Avenue Beach

Hosted by the Margate Mothers Association. Bring your beach chairs, blankets, and kids, and enjoy spectacular fireworks displayed over the beach. learn more at www.margatehasmore.com or call 609-823-9144.

Northfield Connolly Mile

▶8:30 a.m.

City Hall, 1600 Shore Road

Join Northfield’s annual Connolly Memorial Mile Run, a beautiful treelined, traffic-free one mile run on Shore Road to City Hall, prior to the city’s annual Fourth of July Parade. Race day registration will be open from 7 – 8:15 a.m.

Northfield July 4th Parade

▶10 a.m.

Shore Road & Jackson Avenue to Burton Avenue Fire Station

display tops off the evening at 9 p.m., viewable along the beach and boardwalk. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Ocean City Pops Free Outdoor Concert

▶8 p.m.

Carey Stadium, Sixth Street and Boardwalk

The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor show of patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field; there will be seating available in the bleachers.

Ocean City North End Bike Parade

▶10 a.m.

longport Bridge parking lot at Newcastle Road

Sponsored by the Gardens Civic Association. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the parade begins at 10 a.m.

Ocean City South End Bike Parade

▶10 a.m.

Central Avenue from 40th Street to 53rd Street

Sponsored by the South Ocean City Improvement Association, City

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Linwood Bike Parade Photo by Alex Corson

of Ocean City and the Chamber of Commerce. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the parade begins at 10 a.m. The parade will travel from 40th Street south along Central Avenue to 53rd Street and the playground, where refreshments and awards will follow.

Ocean City Riviera Neighborhood Bike Parade

▶12 p.m.

Rosemar lane Park

Sponsored by the Riviera Neighborhood. Registration opens at 11 a.m. and the parade begins at 12 p.m. Somers Point Celebrates

America’s 250th Anniversary

▶Friday, July 3 & Saturday, July 4, 5:30 – 9 p.m.

William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue

Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with a special two-day event featuring live music, food trucks, and vendors. Celebrate, explore, and discover the history of Somers Point with a scavenger hunt, and enjoy free concerts by British Invasion and Born to Run Down the Dream. This event is presented by the Somers Point Historical Society, SPBA, ACEA and City of Somers Point.

Strathmere Fourth of July Parade

▶10:30 a.m.

Strathmere Firehouse down Com -

monwealth Avenue

Registration opens at 9 a.m. at the Strathmere Firehouse. The parade will begin from the firehouse at 10:30 a.m., proceeding south along Commonwealth Avenue An awards ceremony and refreshments will follow at Deauville Inn following the parade. Rain date: Sunday, July 5.

Tropicana Fireworks in Atlantic City

▶10 p.m.

Iowa Avenue and Boardwalk

Experience the excitement of Tropicana’s stunning summer fireworks display. This breathtaking show can be viewed along the beach and iconic Atlantic City boardwalk.

Upper Township Independence Day Celebration

▶1 – 10 p.m.

Amanda’s Field, 10 N. Sunset Drive, Petersburg upper Township invites the public to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence this Fourth

of July. Fun for the whole family, the event will include local bands presented by Cape May Entertainment, along with a beer garden, food truck vendors, craft and fair vendors, laser tag, interactive games, and more. The evening will cap off with an amazing fireworks display. Rain date: Sunday, July 5.

Ventnor Independence Celebration

▶Friday, July 3, 5 – 9 p.m.

Newport Avenue Beach

The evening kicks off at 5 p.m. with crafters and food vendors. Registration for the Ventnor Mile one mile run opens at 5:30 p.m. and the race begins at New Haven Avenue and the beach at 7 p.m. Enjoy live music from Ricky Stevens at 6:15 p.m. and The Exceptions at 7 p.m. followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the beach at dusk.

Weymouth Township

Independence Celebration

▶Friday, July 3, 6:30 p.m.

Weymouth Twp. Municipal Field, 45 S. Jersey Avenue, Dorothy Join in a spectacular evening of celebrations. The Weymouth Historical Museum will be open from 6:30 – 8 p.m. live music will follow at 7 p.m. with a dazzling fireworks display to cap off the evening at 9:30 p.m.

All events are scheduled for Saturday, July 4th except where noted

Galloway Township Fourth of July Parade Photo by Tim Hawk

New Jersey's new e-bike law raises questions as registration process begins

By Julia Train

In a little over two weeks, a new e-bike law is set to change how thousands of riders use their electric bicycles, introducing registration, licensing and, in some cases, insurance requirements. Supporters say it will improve safety, but critics argue it could create new barriers for riders.

The bill (S4834), which takes effect July 19, creates new rules based on the type of e-bike being operated.

While officials say the changes are intended to address the rapid growth of electric bicycles and improve public safety, attorneys and law enforcement officials say many questions remain about how the law will be enforced.

Joseph Capo, managing partner at Camili & Capo, P.A., said the legislation represents a dramatic shift in how New Jersey views e-bikes.

"What used to be treated as a bicycle in New Jersey is now being treated as a motor vehicle," Capo said. "That has significant implications for licensing, registration and insurance."

According to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, riders under 15 are prohibited from operating e-bikes on public roads and sidewalks.

Riders ages 15 and 16 — or anyone without a valid driver's license — must obtain a motorized bicycle license by completing a written knowledge test, vision screening and road test before they can legally operate certain e-bikes.

Adults who already possess a valid New Jersey driver's license generally satisfy the licensing requirement but will still need to register their e-bike.

Riders operating throttle-assisted models capable of traveling up to 28 mph must also carry liability insurance. low-speed pedal-assist e-bikes that do not include a throttle are exempt from the insurance requirement, according to the MVC.

The agency is now accepting appointments for registrations and licensing, with the first year's licensing

and registration fees waived. Riders registering an e-bike must provide documentation such as proof of purchase or ownership, and retailers are required to provide the necessary paperwork to buyers.

How crashes may be handled differently

One of the biggest changes under the new law involves what happens

after an accident. Capo explained that New Jersey's nofault insurance system has traditionally treated bicyclists similarly to pedestrians, meaning an injured cyclist's own automobile insurance typically covers medical expenses after being struck by a vehicle.

The new law changes that, depending on the type of e-bike involved. For those that don’t reach 20 mph and don't have a throttle, then it's considered a bicycle, and car insurance pays through Personal Injury Protection (PIP), he said.

However, riders on e-bikes that can reach over 20 mph will not have PIP coverage, so their health insurance would pay. If the rider doesn't have health insurance, the party who caused the accident is required to pay

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for the medical expenses.

If no one else is responsible for the crash, riders could be left paying those expenses themselves.

Capo said many riders mistakenly believe "no fault" refers to determining who caused a crash, when it actually describes how medical expenses are initially paid.

"All that means is, if you're involved in a motor vehicle accident in the state of New Jersey, your own car insurance pays for your medical expenses regardless of who's at fault for the accident," he said.

New Jersey departs from national standards

The legislation also makes New Jersey an outlier nationally.

According to bicycle insurance provider Velosurance, 45 states regulate e-bikes using a standardized three-class system that distinguishes bicycles primarily by speed and throttle capability.

New Jersey replaced that framework with its own classification system, making it the first state to require liability insurance for certain e-bikes. The company said the new law places greater regulatory requirements on many riders than comparable laws adopted elsewhere.

State lawmakers approved the legislation following a sharp increase in e-bike use across the country and growing concerns about crashes involving high-powered electric bikes.

Data cited by Velosurance shows e-bike sales and emergency room visits have risen significantly in recent years, prompting lawmakers in several states to revisit regulations governing the vehicles.

While supporters argue the changes will improve accountability and safety, Capo believes the law may create unintended consequences for riders who rely on e-bikes as affordable transportation.

"It is having a disproportional effect also on e-bike riders, because a lot of e-bike riders are delivery workers, immigrants, seniors, disabled riders or low-income commuters,"

Capo said. "It's going to increase the amount of money that they have to spend."

He said that while the intent of the legislation is to improve safety and reduce confusion around e-bike use, the practical impact could be felt most by those who depend on the vehicles for daily mobility and income.

Advocates for the bill, however, argue that clearer regulations are necessary as e-bike usage continues to grow across New Jersey, particularly in dense urban and coastal communities where bike traffic has increased alongside delivery demand and recreational riding.

Supporters say the updated framework is designed to address safety concerns involving higher-speed e-bikes sharing roads, boardwalks and bike paths with pedestrians and traditional cyclists, and to give municipalities better tools to enforce consistent rules.

The bill is part of a broader push by state lawmakers to modernize transportation policy as micromobility devices become more common in everyday travel.

State officials have said additional guidance for municipalities and riders will be released ahead of implementation to help clarify classifications, enforcement procedures and safety expectations under the new law.

Adults who already possess a valid New Jersey driver's license generally satisfy the licensing requirement but will still need to register their e-bike.

Events and Happenings

Multi-day Events

Christmas in July at Historic Smithville

▶Saturday, July 11 & Sunday, June 12, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

615 E. Moss Mill Road

Santa will be spreading holiday cheer throughout Historic Smithville this weekend. Enjoy a weekend of summer vibes, festive shopping, and merry moments around the Village. Plus, visit Santa as he trades his boots for flip-flops. Visit www.historicsmithville.com for more information and the complete schedule of events.

Neil Simon’s London Suite

▶Saturday, July 11, 7 p.m. & Sunday, July 12, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Gateway Playhouse, 738 Bay Avenue, Somers Point

Neil Simon’s london Suite invites audiences into a series of hilarious and heartfelt encounters set in the same london hotel room. This signature humor shines through a delightful collection of stories about love, misunderstandings, and second chances. Visit www.gatewaybythebay.org for tickets and more information.

Ocean City Beach Walks

▶Tuesdays, 9 a.m., Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.

59th Street Beach

Join Ocean City for their weekly guided beach walks this summer. Volunteer beachguides will share information on a variety of topics, including shells, birds, the ocean, beach vegetation, and more. Tours run for approximately one hour. Meet at the entrance to Corson’s Inlet State Park at 59th Street and Central Avenue. Mummers Nights

▶Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets

See the Mummers strut the boardwalk every Thursday night this summer, beginning at Sixth and 14th Streets and meeting at 10th Street. For details, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Market Days in Ocean City

▶Thursdays, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Asbury Avenue from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets

Join Ocean City for Market Days every Thursday for strolling entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors, and more.

Thursday, July 2

Ocean City Pops FREE Patriotic Drone Show and Outdoor Concert

▶8 p.m.

Carey Stadium, 6th St. & Atlantic Ave.

The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor concert followed by a dazzling patriotic drone show provided by the Friends of the POPs organization above the beach and boardwalk. The city’s legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. The show is outdoors with seating on the field and bleachers. Please bring a beach chair or towel to sit on the field.

Thrilling Thursday Movies on the Beach

▶6:30 – 9 p.m.

Granville and Huntington Avenue Beach, Margate

Enjoy a free movie on the beach to end the day every Thursday between the bulkhead and dunes. Arrive at 6:30 p.m. for a free fun activity and giveaways while supplies last. The movie will begin at approximately 7 p.m.

Friday, July 3

Beach Exercise: Low Impact

▶8 – 9 a.m.

6th Street Beach, Ocean City

Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for

free low Impact exercise classes every Friday. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-398-6900.

Ocean City Walking Club

▶8 – 10 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to meet outside the ticket booth at the Music Pier to walk the length of the boardwalk. Stay active, meet friends, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Weather permitting.

Saturday, July 4

Magic Show for Kids

▶11 a.m.

longport library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue

Join longport library for a funfilled morning of magic. Please call 609-487-7403 for more information.

Note: Please see the separate 4th of July Events and Happenings listing at the beginning of this publication.

Sunday, July 5

Zumba at the Library

▶11 a.m.

longport library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue

Join longport library for a fun morning of dancing and exercising. Please call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more.

Direct from Sweden: The Music of ABBA Performing with the OC Pops

▶7:30 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

Join the Ocean City Pops for a special evening of live music featuring the music of ABBA. As one of the greatest pop groups of all time, their music continues to be passed on by generations of fans. This musical experience will deliver some of the group’s most iconic songs backed by a full pops ensemble. Visit www. oceancitypops.org for more information.

Monday, July 6

Beach Exercise: Yoga

▶8 – 9 a.m.

6th Street Beach, Ocean City Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for free yoga classes every Monday. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-398-6900.

Bingo at the Library

▶6:30 p.m.

longport library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue

Gather your family and friends, and meet at the library for a fun-filled evening of bingo, prizes, and great company. Please call 609-487-7403 for more information.

Bruce in the USA: Bruce Springsteen Tribute

▶7 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

Hear the world’s number one tribute to Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band on-stage as they bring their high-energy musical performance to the Music Pier. Visit www. ocnj.us/summerconcertseries for more information and to purchase tickets. Produced by BRE Presents.

Tuesday, July 7

Bicycle Auction in Ocean City

▶10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Shelter Road

Join Ocean City as they host their annual Bicycle Auction this Tuesday. Approximately 115 bicycles will be sold. Registration opens at 9 a.m. A driver’s license, passport or valid I.D. is required to register. Accepted payments include checks with ID, traveler’s checks and cash only. For more information, call the purchasing office at 609-525-9356.

Funtastic Tuesdays in Ocean City

▶10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Asbury Avenue from Sixth to

Fourteenth Streets

Join Ocean City for Funtastic Tuesdays every week, featuring strolling entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors, and more.

Winnie the Pooh Presented by OCTC

▶10:30 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

Join Ocean City Theatre Company as they kick off their Summer Children’s Theatre Series with Winnie the Pooh. In this musical adaptation of the stories of A.A. Milne, this beloved

children’s classic follows Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore and friends on an adventure through the forest. Visit www. oceancitytheatrecompany.com for more information.

Thoughts from the Bookshelf ▶3 p.m.

Margate library, 8100 Atlantic Avenue

Join a monthly book club gathering to discuss the 2025 Barnes & Noble novel of the year, international best-seller ‘Mona’s Eyes’ by Thomas Schlesser. RSVP by July 3 by emailing tserota@jfsvillage.org or call 609-

287-8872.

Author Talk with Jeffrey Siegel

▶6:30 p.m.

longport library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue

Join longport library for a talk by Jeffrey Siegel. Jeffrey is a health and wellness expert and the author of ‘How to Eat Confidently in an ultraprocessed World’. Please call 609487-7403 to register or learn more.

Senior Dance Society

▶7 – 9:30 p.m.

Somers Point Fire Co. No. 1, 447 Bethel Road

Join in the fun and enjoy an evening of dancing with live music duos every Tuesdays. Activities include social dancing, line dancing, dance mixers and more. For more information, contact Sharon at kookiecar@ yahoo.com.

Wednesday, July 8

Beach Exercise: Pilates

▶8 – 9 a.m.

6th Street Beach, Ocean City

Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for free Pilates every Wednesday. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-3986900.

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Mummers Nights on the Ocean City Boardwalk Photo by Cat Pepe

Wacky Wednesday: Taffy Sculpting

▶10:30 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

use your creativity to shape and sculpt salt water taffy into your very own unique masterpiece. The contest is free and is open to the first 200 participants. Participants must be present at the Music Pier at 10:30 a.m. to participate.

Pipe Organ Recital

▶10 a.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Join the Historic Organ Restoration Committee for a tour of the World’s l argest Musical Instrument, the 33,000 pipe organ inside Boardwalk Hall. The tour will start at 10 a.m., followed by a recital by Josh Stafford at 12 p.m. Visit www.boardwalkorgans.org for more information. 34th Street Summer Series

▶6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Sandcastle Park, 3401 West Avenue

Join Ocean City for an evening of family-friendly entertainment. Activities include themed entertainment, live performances, face painters, and balloon makers. The Summer Series will be held Wednesdays through Aug. 19.

The Duprees Performing with the OC Pops

▶7:30 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

The Duprees are known around the world for their distinct sound and iconic love songs. They have made a career out of giving new life to contemporary hits and big band standards. Audiences will enjoy an evening of classic songs and iconic hits come to life. Visit www.oceancitypops.org for more information.

Thursday, July 9

Lunch Around Town with JFS Village

▶12 – 1:30 p.m.

Shore Diner, 6710 Tilton Road, Egg Harbor Township

JFS Village invites you to enjoy a leisurely lunch while supporting a local restaurant. Come prepared for good food and conversation. Order off the menu and pay individually. RSVP by July 7 by emailing tserota@ jfsvillage.org or call 609-287-8872. Absecon Galloway Rotary Club Meetings

▶6 p.m.

Rifici, 308 West Absecon Boulevard

The members of the Absecon Galloway Rotary Club invite the public to be their guest at their upcoming

meeting. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at Rifici and the fourth Thursday of every month at Gourmet Italian Restaurant. learn more about Rotary, how they serve our local community, and meet local community members. For club information, go to www.facebook. com/AbseconGallowayRotary or email Rose McCarthy, Club President, at bluerose46@aol.com.

Cape-Atlantic Marine Corps League Meeting

▶7 p.m.

Marine Corps Bunker, 731 East Greek Creek Road, Galloway

The Cape Atlantic uSMC league will host their monthly meeting in Galloway. For more information, please call 609-517-6466 or email camcl194@gmail.com.

Friday, July 10

Smithville Car Cruise

▶5 – 8 p.m.

Historic Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Road

Cruise over to Smithville and hang out with fellow car enthusiasts. Drive to the side parking lot of the Village Green near the red-covered bridge, and look for the orange cones set up. Move a cone and park your ride. Visit www.historicsmithville.com for more information.

Joe Stefano and his Jazz Ensemble Band

▶7 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

local resident and Navy veteran Joe Stefano will be joined by his pop and jazz ensemble for a special evening of live music, free for veterans and guests. The group will perform classical, jazz, big band, and Broadway hits. No advance registration is required for the public to attend this free show.

Sunday, July 12

CSCNJ Dragon Boat Festival

▶8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

lake lenape East, 753 Park Road, Mays l anding

The dragons are coming to l ake lenape as Cancer Support Community New Jersey at Gilda’s Club hosts its annual Dragon Boat race. Attendees will enjoy a day full of entertainment, fantastic local food, vendors, and family fun as more than a dozen teams from across the region will converge for a day of comradery, while supporting individuals impacted by cancer. Visit www.cscnj.com/ dragon-boat-festival to learn more.

The Stylistics

▶8 p.m.

Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Avenue

Formed in Philadelphia, The Stylistics are best known for their iconic

love songs and signature hits. This veteran group brings their renowned catalog and classic sound to the Convention Hall stage for one night only. Visit www.capemaycity.com/ boxoffice for more information.

Health and Wellness

Depression and Anxiety Group

▶Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Atlantic Community Wellness Center 1125 Atlantic Ave. Suite 617, Atlantic City

This weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness, and recovery. Meetings are led by peers who have lived experience. No cost to participate. Offered by the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County. For more information, call 609-6523800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org. Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, July 1, 1:30 p.m.

Egg Harbor Township Community Center 5045 English Creek Ave.

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

NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶Monday, July 13, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point

NAMI of Atlantic/Cape May offers free self-help, peer led support groups for family members, caregivers, and friends of individuals over the age of 18 living with a mental illness. Family Support and Connections groups meet on the second Monday of each month. Please visit www. namiacm.org for further information. Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@ gmail.com.

CSCNJ Dragon Boat Festival Photo credit: The Cancer Support Community NJ Dragon Boat Festival Facebook

By Marcella Curcio

TFood, fireworks and family traditions at the Jersey Shore

he Fourth of July and the Jersey Shore have become synonymous with family traditions, fireworks over the ocean, and spending the day from sunrise to sunset by the beach. Whether visitors are celebrating in Atlantic City, Ocean City or Cape May, one thing remains constant — good food is at the center of the holiday.

For many South Jersey families, Fourth of July traditions are passed down from generation to generation. Mine is no different. Some of my favorite memories include spending the day on the beach with family and friends, watching fireworks over the ocean, and ending the night with classic American food and favorite shore treats. It's those familiar restaurants and annual traditions that make Independence Day at the shore feel like summer has officially arrived.

From Boardwalk pizza and seafood boils to backyard barbecue favorites and handcrafted desserts, local restaurants help create the memories that keep families return -

ing year after year. Add in patriotic parades, fireworks, and neighborhoods dressed head to toe in red, white, and blue, and it's easy to see why the Fourth of July remains one of the busiest weekends of the summer season.

Atlantic City offers visitors plenty of opportunities to celebrate Independence Day while enjoying a meal before the night's festivities.

Hard Rock Cafe is kicking off the holiday with a Fourth of July brunch featuring traditional breakfast favorites, including pancakes, French toast, eggs, bacon, and other American classics. Guests can also enjoy Bloody Marys, mimosas, and other refreshing beverages before spending the afternoon exploring the beach, Boardwalk, or casino properties.

Start the evening with grabbing drinks at Ocean Casino Resorts' Patriotic-themed pop-up bar, 1927 lounge. For dinner, head over to Resorts Casino's landShark Bar & Grille for dinner and music on the beach. Afterward, stick around for one of Atlantic City's signature holiday tradi -

Kelli is committed to helping you receive full and fair compensation.

tions as fireworks light up the skyline over the Atlantic Ocean. Casinos, beach bars, and entertainment venues continue the celebration with live music and special events throughout the evening.

The Atlantic City fireworks have always been part of my own Fourth of July memories. Growing up, my family would watch the fireworks

from the beaches in Ocean City, and if you looked north, you could always catch Atlantic City's display lighting up the sky in the distance. It almost felt like getting two fireworks shows for the price of one, and it became something we looked forward to every year.

Known as "America's Greatest Family Resort," Ocean City continues to be one of South Jersey's most popular Fourth of July destinations. Families spend the holiday riding bikes through town, relaxing on the beach, walking the Boardwalk, and gathering together for the evening fireworks display.

No visit to Ocean City is complete without a stop at Manco & Manco Pizza. For generations, the Boardwalk staple has been serving its signature pizza to locals and visitors alike, with lines often stretching down the Boardwalk throughout holiday weekends.

Families staying in vacation rentals may choose Outer Banks Boil Company for a hassle-free seafood feast. Their customizable seafood boils, complete with shrimp, sausage, corn,

Kohr Bro's classic twist with sprinkles

and potatoes, make it easy to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.

located on the quieter north end of the Boardwalk, Oves Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with sweeping ocean views. Whether grabbing breakfast before heading to the beach or dinner before the fireworks, the longtime restaurant remains a favorite stop for many families.

Of course, no Ocean City Boardwalk visit feels complete without the classic shore treats. Saltwater taffy, fudge, frozen custard, and fresh lemonade continue to be staples for visitors strolling between amusement rides and shops.

For my family, a stop at Kohr Bros. is practically non-negotiable. My order has remained the same for years — an orange and vanilla twist topped with rainbow sprinkles. Somehow it always tastes even better after a long day on the beach, and it's one of those simple traditions that instantly reminds me of summer.

Throughout the day, Ocean City hosts neighborhood bike parades, family-friendly activities, and entertainment before the evening fireworks over the ocean cap off the celebration. Watching children decorate their bicycles, wagons, and even scooters in patriotic colors is

another tradition that continues to bring generations together.

Cape May offers a distinct Fourth of July experience, blending historic charm with coastal traditions and standout dining.

Congress Hall continues one of its most anticipated Independence Day traditions with its annual Fourth of July cookout. The menu features summertime favorites, including grilled hamburgers, barbecue ribs, fresh salads, seafood, macaroni and cheese, and classic desserts served on the Grand lawn.

Congress Hall has always held a special place in my family's summer traditions. Between its rich history — including visits from several u.S. presidents — and the beautiful setting overlooking the ocean, it feels like stepping back in time. Sitting on the Grand l awn, listening to live music and watching the waves in the distance has always marked the unofficial start of summer for us.

Nothing feels more American than enjoying a hot dog on the Fourth of July, and Tommy's Hot Dogs has become a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike. The menu features specialty hot dogs, classic toppings, loaded fries, and even vegan options.

For dessert, Peace Pie has become a must-visit destination. Known for its handcrafted ice cream sandwiches

made with fresh cookies, brownies, and slices of pie, the shop has developed a loyal following throughout the Jersey Shore.

One of my favorites is the Jersey Devil, featuring blueberry flavors that perfectly capture summer at the shore. Their signature pie-style ice cream sandwiches offer a fun twist on a classic frozen dessert and have become a tradition I look forward to each season.

Cape May's annual Independence Day Parade fills Beach Avenue with

decorated golf carts, bicycles, community groups, and patriotic displays before visitors head to dinner and evening celebrations.

As part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebration, Cape May will also host a special anniversary symphony concert, offering another opportunity for visitors to enjoy the holiday weekend.

While every shore town celebrates Independence Day a little differently, the traditions remain remarkably similar. Families gather around picnic tables, restaurants fill with visitors, Boardwalks buzz with activity, and fireworks light up the coastline after sunset.

Whether it's enjoying brunch in Atlantic City, grabbing pizza on the Ocean City Boardwalk, sharing a seafood boil with family, or ending the evening with a Peace Pie in Cape May, the restaurants become just as much a part of the celebration as the fireworks themselves.

For many visitors, these meals aren't simply places to eat. They're part of family traditions that span decades — the same restaurants visited every summer, the same desserts ordered every year and the same memories made with family and friends. As another Fourth of July arrives, those traditions continue, one meal and one fireworks show at a time.

Outer Banks Boil's made to go

Atlantic City Farmers Market

▶Fridays, 4 – 6 p.m.

Fisherman’s Park Community Garden, Massachusetts & Drexel Avenues

Join C.R.O.P.S. for their weekly farmers markets, where you can shop for locally grown vegetables, fruit and herbs. Plus, enjoy free activities and a community garden with harvested vegetables and herbs. Markets are open Fridays through Sept. 18.

Brigantine Farmers Market

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Brigantine Community School parking lot, Sheridan Boulevard

Farmers Markets

The Brigantine Farmers Market will be open to customers on Saturdays, rain or shine, through Sept. 5. For more information, visit www. facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket.

Egg Harbor Township Community Farmers Market

▶Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

1 Swift Drive

Join EHT for their weekly farmers market, featuring dozens of area vendors and businesses, food, crafters, and more. Markets are open weekly through Oct. 11.

Galloway Green Market

▶Thursdays, 4 – 7 p.m.

Historic Smithville Village Greene, 615 E. Moss Mill Road

Go Green Galloway hosts their weekly Green Market, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Visit gogreengalloway.org/ greenmarket for information and updates. Markets are open Thursdays through Aug. 27.

Margate Community Farmers Market

▶Thursdays, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Steve & Cookie’s, Amherst & Monroe Avenues

The Margate Community Farmers Market is open for the 2026 season, with dozens of local vendors selling prepared food, baked goods, and more. Parking is available in the lot on Monroe Ave. Markets are open on Thursdays through Sept. 3.

Ocean City Farmers Market

▶Wednesdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean City Tabernacle Grounds, Asbury Avenue from 5th – 6th Streets

Visit dozens of vendors on the grounds of the Tabernacle, and crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave. Markets are open Wednesdays through Sept. 16. For more information, call 1-800-BEACH-NJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.

Risley Square Farmers Market

▶Sundays, July 12 – September 27, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

319 E. Jimmie leeds Road, Galloway

Come shop for produce, homemade goods, fresh baked treats, local crafts, and more. It is the perfect way to spend a Sunday while supporting local and connecting with the community.

Somers Point Farmers Market

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Somers Mansion, 1000 Shore Road

The Somers Point Farmers Market is open for the 2026 season. Dozens of local food vendors, crafters, and hometown businesses will set up on the grounds of historic and beautiful Somers Mansion each week. Markets are open on Saturdays through Sept. 12.

Ventnor City Farmers Market ▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Newport & Atlantic Avenues

The parking lot at St. James Church brims with 70+ farmers, food vendors, and crafters who offer fresh, seasonal picks, delicious artisan foods, baked goods, beverages, and beautiful handmade wares. Visit vcfm.org for more information.

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Klemic Performance Method opens new sports performance training facility in Somers Point

Business Buzz By Rich Baehrle

The Klemic Performance Method has opened a new 7,000-square-foot sports performance training facility in Somers Point, bringing one of South Jersey's premier athletic development programs back to the hometown of its founder, former NFl player David Klemic.

The facility, located at 514 New Road, celebrated its grand opening June 27 with athletes, parents, coaches, community

leaders and supporters from throughout South Jersey. For Klemic, the opening represented more than a business milestone. It marked a return to the community where his athletic career began.

A Somers Point native, Klemic's success spans youth athletics, collegiate competition and the National Football league.

His athletic journey started early. As a fifth grader, he won a national long jump championship, an accomplishment that foreshadowed a standout career in football and track. At Mainland Regional High School, he became one of the school's most accomplished multi-sport athletes, earning All-State honors in football while setting school records in the long jump and the 400-meter hurdles. His achievements earned him an athletic scholarship to Northeastern university.

At Northeastern, Klemic established himself as one of the football program's most accomplished receivers. He finished his career holding school records that included 217 receptions and 3,419 receiving yards while earning three All-Conference selections, multiple All-New England honors and Offensive MVP recognition. He was later inducted into the Northeastern university Varsity Club Hall of Fame.

Klemic also excelled in track and field, winning eight conference championships and continuing to develop the speed and explosiveness that became the hallmark of his athletic career.

His collegiate accomplishments led to an opportunity with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he played from 2001 through 2004 under head coach Dick Vermeil. During his rookie season, Klemic won the team's "Fastest Man" competition, defeating standout return specialist Dante Hall.

Klemic often credits his track background as the foundation for his athletic success and acknowledges the coaches who influenced his career, including Bob Coffey at Mainland Regional High School, Barry Gallup at Northeastern university, Dick Vermeil with the Chiefs and his mother, who served as his track coach and helped develop the speed and explosiveness that became his trademark.

After his professional football career, Klemic turned his attention to coaching young athletes. He found -

ed the Klemic Performance Method in 2002, beginning in a modest 1,100-squarefoot facility. Over the years, the program has expanded into one of the region's bestknown sports performance training organizations.

u nlike many traditional training programs, KPM emphasizes science-based performance testing and individualized development plans. Athletes are evaluated using measurable data to help improve speed, acceleration, power, agility, vertical jump and overall athletic performance.

Today, the program serves athletes ranging from children as young as 5 to high school, collegiate and professional competitors. Specialized training is offered for football combine preparation, speed development, explosive acceleration, vertical jump improvement and sport-specific performance for baseball, soccer, lacrosse, wrestling, basketball and volleyball.

much of that success to the coaching staff surrounding him.

The program's growth has been fueled largely by referrals from athletes, parents and coaches who have seen measurable improvements in athletic performance. Klemic credits

Josh Holsopple, director of sports performance, specializes in speed development, explosive power and human performance. Cruz lewis oversees individualized performance plans and works closely with athletes to maximize their development. Together, the coaching staff focuses

on helping each athlete reach his or her potential through personalized instruction and measurable results. The company also has partnerships with Antepes Muscle Runners, Traser, ISA Sports and Speedster Equipment, reflecting its growing presence within the sports performance industry.

Despite the program's continued growth, Klemic remains deeply

connected to the community. He and his wife, Erica, are raising their three children — Callie, Andi and Brooks — while continuing to mentor young athletes throughout South Jersey.

The new Somers Point facility represents both the growth of the business and Klemic's commitment to investing in the next generation of athletes in the community where his own journey began.

"Our goal has always been to help athletes reach their full potential through discipline, commitment and measurable improvement," Klemic said.

For more information about Klemic Performance Method, visit its facility at 514 New Road in Somers Point, call 609-742-6190, visit www.klemicperformancemethod.com.

Rich Baehrle is a broker associate with Berkshire Hathaway Fox & Roach Realtors and has specialized in commercial real estate. He can be reached at 609-226-6680 or Rich@ GetRichInRealEstateSJ.com.

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David Klemic, with his team and city officials cut the ribbon.

New Jersey's 'Skip the Stuff' law takes effect Aug. 1, changing restaurant takeout orders

By Julia Train

New Jersey is taking another step toward a more sustainable future.

Starting Aug. 1, the state's new "Skip the Stuff" bill (S3195) will go into effect, changing how restaurants provide disposable utensils and condiments.

The statewide law applies to restaurants, cafés, coffee shops, diners, food trucks, drive-thrus and other food service businesses. Supporters say the measure is intended to reduce plastic waste, lower cleanup costs and help restaurants avoid purchasing disposable items that often go unused.

under the law, food service businesses may only provide single-use utensils and condiment packets when customers specifically request them, regardless of whether an order is placed in person, over the phone, online or through a delivery app.

specialty menu items, are also exempt.

According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), the new requirements expand the state's efforts to curb single-use plastics.

Online ordering systems also must default to "no utensils or condiments," allowing customers to opt in if they need them.

The law also affects dine-in service. Full-service restaurants with seating for 10 or more customers must provide reusable, washable utensils for patrons eating on-site rather than disposable cutlery.

Customers can still receive disposable forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks, napkins and condiment packets by asking for them. Businesses are not required to provide these items, but if they choose to do so, they may only distribute the types and quantities specifically requested by the customer.

Beginning Aug. 1, 2027, restaurants will no longer be permitted to offer bundled utensil or condiment packs containing multiple disposable items. However, self-service stations that dispense individual utensils or condiment packets will still be allowed in certain settings.

But the law includes several exemptions. K-12 schools, health care facilities and county or state correctional facilities are exempt, while food court vendors have until Aug. 1, 2028 to comply. Prepackaged food products that include utensils or condiments during manufacturing, along with single-use sauce cups served with

In 2022, New Jersey prohibited stores and food service businesses from distributing single-use plastic carryout bags and polystyrene foam food containers, while plastic straws have been available only upon request since late 2021.

Environmental advocates say the law targets a growing source of waste created by takeout and food delivery. According to Clean Water Action, Americans throw away an estimated 40 billion plastic utensils each year, many of which are never used.

Because plastic does not biodegrade, it breaks into increasingly smaller pieces known as microplastics that can persist in the environment.

The National Caucus of Environmental legislators said New Jersey's legislation is among the country's most comprehensive "Skip the Stuff" policies. The organization said disposable utensils are difficult to recycle because of their size and noted that the law aims to reduce litter while lowering purchasing and waste disposal costs for restaurants.

A fiscal analysis by the New Jersey Office of legislative Services found the law could result in long-term savings for restaurants and government-operated food service facilities by reducing purchases of disposable products. However, some businesses

may incur short-term costs as they adjust their operations.

The analysis also found that state and local governments will face additional enforcement responsibilities, while fines collected from violations will support litter cleanup and environmental education through the Clean Communities Program Fund.

Businesses that fail to comply will receive a warning for a first violation, followed by a $100 fine for a second offense and $250 for third and subsequent violations within a 12-month period.

locally, the Hamilton SustainabiliTEAM, which is Hamilton Township’s Green Team, has been preparing businesses and customers in the area through tabling at events, like Mays l anding’s Hometown Celebration, where the group handed out bamboo utensils and information. The next event the group will attend is National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4.

During the month of July, the Green Team plans to visit restaurants to distribute informational materials and answer questions about the new requirements.

The Hamilton SustainabiliTEAM tables events to inform residents about the new law.

68 years later, war hero Marco Polo is still living the American Dream

Four-time Purple Heart recipient grateful for his country

Views from the Shore

By Brian Cahill

On July 2, 1958, a 10-yearold boy stepped off a ship and onto American soil for the first time. He had left behind a small village in postwar Italy where poverty was common, opportunity was scarce, and the scars of World War II remained visible everywhere. u nexploded bombs and landmines still dotted the countryside. Families struggled to make ends meet. For young Marco Polo Smigliani, America represented something he had only dreamed about: possibility.

This July 2 marks the 68th anniversary of Marco's arrival in the united States, a date that takes on even greater significance as our nation celebrates its 250th birthday. Few people I know have a deeper appreciation for America or a more unique perspective on what this country has meant to generations of immigrants. When I sat down with Marco

recently, I expected to hear stories about his military service. After all, he is a four-time Purple Heart recipient,

a u nited States Marine who served with the legendary 1st Battalion, 9th Marines during the Vietnam War. His battalion, known as "The Walking Dead" because of its staggering casualty rate, lost 747 Marines whose names now appear on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

But what struck me most wasn't what Marco said about war. It was what he said about America.

For Marco, patriotism isn't political. It isn't partisan. It comes from having seen firsthand what life looked like before America became his home.

He remembers growing up in Italy in the years following World War II. He remembers family members who were killed by landmines left behind after the fighting ended. He remembers neighbors who worked their entire lives and remained poor. He remembers a world where opportunity was limited and where many people simply accepted the circumstances they were born into.

Then his family came to America. like so many immigrant families, they arrived with very little except hope and a willingness to work hard. Marco learned English, attended school, worked jobs, and eventually became an American citizen. As a teenager, he joined the Merchant Marines and traveled the world aboard American ships. During one voyage to Vietnam, he found himself thinking about service, sacrifice, and responsibility.

Many young men during that era were looking for ways to avoid military service. Marco made a different choice. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's famous call to service, he left a well-paying Merchant Marine position and enlisted in the u nited States Marine Corps.

" you can't just take," he told me. " you have to give back."

That belief has guided him throughout his life. After Vietnam, he recovered from devastating combat wounds, built businesses, served his community, raised a family, and became an advocate for veterans. Along the way, he never lost sight of the opportunities that America had given him.

At one point during our conversation, Marco paused and reflected on the journey that brought him from a small Italian village to a life filled with experiences he never imagined possible.

"My life has been a series of voyages that unfurled my childhood dreams," he said.

It may be the most fitting description of his life I've ever heard.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Marco worries that many people have forgotten how fortunate they are. Not because life is easy, but because many have never experienced the hardships that previous generations endured. He talks about appreciating simple things—a hot shower, a refrigerator full of food, the freedom to speak your mind, the ability to pursue your own path.

For someone who remembers a different world, those things are not ordinary. They are extraordinary.

Perhaps that's why Marco's message resonates so strongly. His story reminds us that America's greatest strength has always been its ability to offer opportunity to those willing to work for it. Nearly seven decades after arriving on our shores, his faith in that promise remains unshaken.

As our nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, Marco's message is both simple and profound:

"Anything is possible in America, even today."

Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He also volunteers on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.

Marco Polo arrived in the United States with his family when he was only 10 years old. Now, 68 years later, he maintains a deep appreciation for America.

When passion becomes an icon: A sweet stop at Lindy Hop's in Galloway

By Holly Martin

If you're looking for homemade ice cream in Galloway Township, lindy Hop's is much more than your average ice cream shop. From the moment you walk through the doors, it's clear this isn't just a place to grab dessert. It's an experience built on nostalgia, kindness, and a passion for making people smile.

Step inside and you'll feel like you've traveled back in time. Classic hits play through the adorable car tailgate-designed speakers while chrome ice cream cases, vintage décor, and colorful memorabilia create a retro atmosphere that feels straight out of “Grease.” Every detail adds to the charm, making lindy Hop's one of Galloway's most iconic hidden gems.

Owner linda l’Erario has been sharing her love of homemade ice cream since 1991. More than three decades later, she continues making every batch from scratch, using the same passion that inspired her from the beginning.

"My main goal when I started this 35 years ago was to put a smile on everybody's face, no matter what situation they're in," linda said. "I deal from the heart, and that's what I put in my ice cream."

That heart shines through in every scoop.

The shop offers what feels like an endless selection of flavors, along with dairy-free options, water ice, banana splits, ice cream cakes, ice cream pies, and even ice cream pizzas. Whether you prefer classic fa -

11,

vendor and market

vorites or adventurous combinations, there's something for everyone.

As soon as you walk in, it's almost impossible not to smile. Cheerful hand-painted decorations welcome guests, while the long chrome display cases are filled with 36 colorful flavors that make choosing just one nearly impossible.

↘Continued on 28

Dairy Free Strawberry and Banana Scoops prove that dairy free can also be creamy and delicious.

Joe Amendolia smiles with the artistically painted smiling ice cream cone that welcomes you in the door at Lindy Hop’s.

My mom and I ordered the dairyfree Strawberry Banana ice cream, and we were genuinely impressed. It was smooth, creamy, bursting with fresh fruity flavor, and proof that dairy-free doesn't mean sacrificing taste.

My husband gravitated toward some of the more adventurous flavors, including Horchata, Cookie Dough, and Mounds. Each one had its own distinct personality, but the Horchata quickly became our favorite. Creamy and perfectly balanced, it captured the familiar cinnamon sweetness of the beloved drink without being overpowering. It honestly

tasted like sipping horchata in frozen form.

linda was especially excited to share that her signature Horchata flavor is currently being patented and entered into competitions alongside another one of her patented creations, Tahitian Butter Sand.

" you've got to try this!" she said. She wasn't exaggerating.

Tahitian Butter Sand is unlike anything we've tasted before. Rich caramel and buttery toffee swirl through silky homemade ice cream, while pieces of handcrafted butter candy add the perfect texture. linda even shared one of her secrets: Not only is every batch of ice cream made from

scratch, but the candy mixed into Tahitian Butter Sand is handmade inhouse as well. Even more impressive, it stays soft instead of freezing into hard chunks, even at temperatures as low as 20 degrees below zero.

It's this level of creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that makes lindy Hop's stand out among South Jersey ice cream shops.

Whether you're a longtime local or visiting the Jersey Shore, lindy Hop's is well worth the stop. It's the kind of place where every scoop is made with care, every customer is welcomed like family, and every visit leaves you smiling.

We're wishing linda and her team the very best in their upcoming competitions. No matter what the judges decide, they've already earned a blue ribbon in our book.

lindy Hop's is open daily from noon to 10 p.m. throughout the summer. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for new flavors, seasonal specials, and updates.

Holly Martin has been immersed in the media world since 2012, building a dynamic and versatile career that spans nearly every corner of the industry.

Lindy Hope’s has been serving up smiles since 1991. Over 3 decades of homemade ice cream flavors and creations.

The top scoop of Horchata, middle cookie dough, and bottom mounds towers over the ice cream cup.

Surviving a heat wave in your garden

By Tammy Thornton

While summer provides the full sun and warmth that flowers need to be at their peak, heat waves are too much of a good thing. An extended period of extreme heat can damage plants and wreak havoc on your garden. Fortunately, you can take steps to protect your plants to help minimize the stresses of heat and drought.

Of course, the most obvious first course of action during a drought or heat wave would be to water your plants. But proper watering techniques make a difference in whether your plants survive or succumb to the heat. Water your plants early in the morning so that the plants have time to absorb the water before afternoon heat causes it to quickly evaporate. When you water your plants, water them deeply to make sure you are getting down to the roots. Frequent shallow waterings will be less effective than deep, staggered waterings. Stick your finger into the dirt and make sure the water has absorbed into the soil. Often, I have thought I did a good job, only to check the soil and find it bone dry under the

surface. When possible, water close to the ground instead of splashing the leaves. This will help minimize water runoff and powdery mildew that can occur in humid conditions. Pay special attention to potted plants that will dry out more quickly.

u se mulch around your plants. your main goal is to protect the roots of the plant. Mulch will provide an extra layer of protection for the roots and will also help cut down on weeds. Speaking of weeds, you should also make sure you are weeding around your plants, because weeds will be competing for water and other resources underground.

When your garden is experiencing a time of drought or a heat wave, do not prune your plants. under normal conditions, pruning can promote growth, but it can also add stress to your plants. you want your plants to be focused on their roots, not exerting energy towards regrowing. That being said, if you find a damaged or dead section of your plant, trim it away. Disease and damage can also stress a plant, since it will spend energy trying to heal itself. Also avoid fertilizing during a heatwave. While it seems like fertilizing would help make your plant healthier, you could

actually place the plant under stress or burn the roots.

Avoid the urge to plant new flowers or transplant flowers in your garden during a heat wave. Even heat-tolerant plants will be vulnerable until they have had time to establish their roots. If you have recently moved a plant or added a new one to your garden, give it special attention and extra water. If possible, provide a little shade with a shade cloth or even a temporary umbrella. Just be sure there is plenty of airflow and that you aren’t suffocating your plant. Move potted plants into a shady area in your garden or under a bench or chair until the heat wave passes.

Don’t panic if your flowers and vegetables stop producing during a heat wave. your plants will go into a self-imposed dormancy to conserve energy. Even though tomatoes love the heat, producing fruit takes a lot of energy. During extreme temperatures, your tomatoes will take a little break. Flowers will also stop blooming during stressful times. If you have kept the roots healthy and watered, your flowers and vegetables will begin anew once temperatures cool down. But at this point, any cool-season herbs or vegetables that were hanging on will most likely

bolt and go to seed. This is part of their normal life cycle. Thank them for their service, enjoy the flowers and collect the seeds. When my kale goes to seed, it produces pretty little yellow flowers that add a pop of color to the garden. They are also edible and, to me, taste like fresh, delicious broccoli. The seeds of cilantro (coriander) can be harvested to plant a whole new crop. When summer starts to wind down, you can plant another round of cool-season crops that can be harvested in the fall.

We go through these heat waves every year in South Jersey. you may consider planting heat-tolerant plants in your garden, such as purple coneflowers, lavender, lantana, anise hyssop, zinnias, blanket flowers, sedum, yarrow, black-eyed Susans, and catmint. Once the heat wave passes, you can trim away any casualties and watch the garden wake up from its summer dormancy.

What are your favorite strategies for coping with a drought or heat wave? We would love to hear from our readers. Send your questions and comments to: shorelocalgardener@ gmail.com.

Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.

Once established, native purple coneflowers can stand up to the heat.

Inside the world of toys, trinkets and kites with Air Circus owner Doug Jewell

By Steffen Klenk

For nearly 50 years, Air Circus has been providing children and families with a lifetime of memories. located on the Ocean City boardwalk, between 11th and 12th Streets, it is one of the area’s most popular stores, boasting a large collection of kites, toys, bubbles, and novelty items. And this Fourth of July weekend, the store, and its owner, will step into the spotlight for an annual event

Doug Jewell, the owner of Air Circus, has been a toy enthusiast for decades. “When I opened the store, I put every toy I had in here as a kid.”

While in the second grade, Jewell began to juggle, play with yo-yos,

Summer Beach Reads by Local Author Michele A. Fabiano

Doug Jewell, owner of Air Circus on the Ocean City Boardwalk

and often fidget with different school objects. “I was the kid that spun the ruler on the pencil”, Jewell exclaims.

In 1971, Jewell discovered articles on Alexandar Graham Bell and his design for a kite based on the tetrahedron. Captivated by the invention, Jewell created lifelike tetrahedrons, traveling to various kite competitions, drawing much attention from judges at the Maryland Kite Festival in the 1970s. “I started building gigantic tetrahedrons, twelve feet by twelve feet, and took it to the Smithsonian Kite Festival”, he explained. “I won the largest kite and best cellular kite.”

In 1991, Jewell met Mark Soifer, Ocean City’s longtime public relations director, and became interested in joining the Kite Festival on the boardwalk, held on the Fourth of July. “I told him I was opening a kite store at 11th and the boardwalk and he said, ‘We’d love to have your participation.’ I came up with my tetrahedron and threw my kites up.”

Today, Jewell continues to fly kites high above the boardwalk directly across from Air Circus and are the official sponsors of the Ocean City Kite Festival. The event is anticipated to bring dozens of participants from across the region for an evening of high-flying action.

In addition to his skills Jewell is a

renowned yo-yo player and has previously promoted the Bandai brand across the u nited States. He was a key figure in bringing the New Jersey State yo-yo Contest to the Music Pier

in 2015.

Air Circus itself is best known for its large assortment of beautifully decorated kites, each coming in an assortment of shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns. The store also specializes in classic toys and beach games, carrying the latest and greatest items hitting the market. The NeeDoh cube

has been prominently on display over the last several months. This cubeshaped item has become a popular fidget toy, known for its squish-like texture.

Air Circus also caters to pirate lovers of all ages with its impressive selection of pirate accessories. The attached emporium, dubbed ‘Pirates Arrrgh us’, opened in 2004 following the release of Pirates of the Caribbean. Visitors can find a variety of trinkets, novelty items, clothing, and collectors items on display. Jewell himself is a noted fan of pirates and often shares pirate jokes.

Air Circus is located at 1114 Boardwalk in Ocean City. The store is open daily from 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Their phone number is 609-399-9343. you can also find them online at www. facebook.com/aircircuskiteshop.

And be sure to check out the 50th Annual Ocean City Kite Festival this Saturday, July 4, on the beach between Music Pier and 9th Street. The program will start at 7 p.m. and will include a kite contest and demonstrations, with prizes in various categories including: Most Patriotic, Smallest and largest kites, Best Homemade, Best Stunt Flyer, Oldest Stunt Flyer, Highest Flyer, and Tallest, along with awards for young participants.

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

Doug Jewell, owner of Air Circus, at Margate's Beachstock. Photos by Steffen Klenk

Located on the Ocean City boardwalk, between 11th and 12th Streets, Air Circus is one of the area’s most popular stores.

By Sarah Fertsch

MMays Landing brothers become rising stars in bull riding

ost South Jersey kids spend their summers on baseball diamonds or at the beach. But for brothers Keagan and Brogan Santana, summer weekends are spent climbing onto the backs of bucking bulls and chasing 8-second rides.

The Mays l anding brothers have become rising stars in the rodeo world, earning championships, traveling across the country and proving that you don't have to grow up in Texas to become a bull rider.

"They are just kids who absolutely love riding bulls," said their father, Nick Santana. "I don't know if it's the notoriety, the adrenaline rush or a little bit of both."

The boys' journey into rodeo began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many traditional youth sports were canceled. While other children were sidelined, the Santanas leaned into their family's farm and western lifestyle.

The brothers actually started much earlier, riding sheep at just

4 years old before progressing to steers, mini bulls and eventually fullsized bulls.

The boys father entered the rodeo competition world himself at a young age as a bullfighter, but when serious internal injuries sidelined him, Nick became his sons’ biggest fan.

Today, 15-year-old Keagan competes in professional bull riding

circuits against grown men, while 12-year-old Brogan has already established himself as one of the country's top young riders.

This spring, Brogan won a national title in Fort Worth, Texas. Both brothers also championed their divisions in the New Jersey High School Rodeo Association finals, with Keagan winning the high school bull riding

championship and Brogan taking the junior high title.

The brothers have also competed at the Junior National Finals Rodeo in las Vegas for the past four years. l ast year, Brogan finished eighth in the world.

For Keagan, stepping into professional competitions has been a confidence booster.

"He's competing against grown men, but he realizes that he fits in," his father said.

Bull riding may seem simple on television—stay on for eight seconds and hang on for dear life—but the sport is far more complicated.

Riders must stay aboard for eight seconds before receiving a score.

Half of the score is based on the rider's control and technique, while the other half comes from the bull's performance.

" you want a decent bull that will perform for you and that you can ride in order to get a decent score," Nick explained. "The sport can be absolutely crazy."

In fact, the amount of time riders actually spend on the backs of bulls is

surprisingly short.

"If we have a phenomenal week, the boys might ride 24 seconds total," Nick said. "But you could spend almost a week in l as Vegas and go home empty-handed."

Between school and baseball and summer camps, Keagan and Brogan make sure to practice bullriding at home. The family invested in a manually-operated mechanical bull on their property, so the boys can go over techniques and skills. Nick also highlighted how physically demanding the sport can be, so he encourages his sons to work out regularly.

Despite the risks for injury, the brothers remain undeterred.

"It's not about if you get hurt, it's about when," their father said. Fortunately, the boys have escaped major injuries, although Keagan suffered a slight concussion last year and both have accumulated plenty of bumps and bruises.

The family invests heavily in safety equipment, purchasing the same helmets worn by professional riders. Brogan also said that the family trusts in a guardian angel to protect them from serious harm.

As for future ambitions, Keagan hopes to continue climbing the professional ranks, eventually earning his professional card to compete at Cowtown Rodeo and one day reach -

ing the National Finals Rodeo, the sport's biggest stage. "That's my top goal," he said. "To make it to the NFR."

Brogan, meanwhile, is following closely in his older brother's footsteps. Because they compete in the same sport, the brothers understand one another in a way few siblings can.

"When we're going through something, we both know what it feels like to be there," Brogan said.

Before each ride, they help one another focus. "We consider the mechanics and keep our heads clear," he said. "We know it's dangerous, but we think about what we have to do to win."

12-year-old Brogan and his brother, 15-year-old Keagan, of Mays Landing, compete in professional bull riding circuits.

The brothers also want people to understand that bull riding is often misunderstood. One common misconception is that the bulls are mistreated. "These bulls are bred to buck," Keagan explained. "They enjoy it. It's not something they're forced to do."

He also notes that the spurs riders wear are not sharp and are used sim -

ply to help maintain grip and balance.

While South Jersey isn't exactly known as a rodeo hotbed, the Santanas have found a tight-knit community of fellow riders throughout the region.

"There is a bull riding community in South Jersey," Nick said. "It's not

huge by any means, but it's pretty great."

For the Santana family, the sport has become more than a hobby. It's a way of life filled with road trips, belt buckles, sold-out arenas and unforgettable memories.

As the brothers prepare for more competitions in New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia—and another trip to l as Vegas—one thing is certain: the boys from Mays l anding are proving that even in South Jersey, cowboy dreams can thrive.

For Keagan and Brogan Santana, every ride begins the same way: the gate swings open, a powerful animal explodes from the chute and eight seconds can change everything.

Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

Atlantic City conference unites national leaders against violence

By Sarah Fertsch

For three days in June, Atlantic City became a national gathering place for people who dedicate their lives to preventing violence—not after it happens, but before it begins.

More than 600 violence intervention professionals, faith leaders, educators, youth advocates, community organizers and survivors from across the country filled the Showboat Resort for the second annual Pull up 4 Peace Conference, hosted by the City of Atlantic City's O.N.E. Neighborhood Evolution Anti-Violence division in partnership with the Institute for Research for Social Justice in Action and other organizations.

The conference featured nationally recognized speakers, hands-on workshops and panel discussions centered on violence intervention, healing, youth empowerment and community leadership. It concluded with a Peace Walk from Showboat Resort to Atlantic City Hall, where participants marched together carrying signs proclaiming "Peace is an Option."

But for Dr. Jamila T. Davis, co-founder of Pull up 4 Peace, the conference is about much more than three days of programming.

"This industry that we're in, has a lot of burnout because you see so much tragedy," Davis said. "What I saw before my eyes was like a revival.

It gave people a new burst of energy, pride and endurance."

Those "frontline soldiers," Davis said, are often the first line of defense against violence.

"They're the people who are directly touching people on the ground," she said. "They're mediating conflicts, encouraging people not to retaliate and helping connect individuals with resources before police ever have to get involved."

u nlike traditional law enforcement, violence interrupters often work within neighborhoods where trust has already been established. Davis says that the key is preventing violence before it happens.

Davis knows firsthand the power

of second chances. A New york City native, she served more than 12 years in federal prison for bank fraud. While incarcerated, she earned an associate degree, bachelor's degree, master's degree and eventually completed coursework toward her doctorate.

"My life changed because I addressed my trauma," she said. "I realized people aren't necessarily bad people. Many times they make poor decisions based on trauma."

After returning home, Davis devoted herself to community work, eventually serving as a community practitioner-in-residence at Seton Hall u niversity before co-founding the Institute for Research for Social Justice in Action with Angelo Pinto. Their work focuses on equipping justice-impacted individuals with education, leadership training and professional opportunities that allow them to become community leaders.

"Our mission is to uplift the frontline," Davis said. "Many of the people doing this work have been counted out. We help create real career paths while they're helping save lives."

While discussions around violence often focus on policing and prosecution, Davis believes lasting solutions begin much earlier.

"The biggest contributor is poverty," she said. "People are imprisoned mentally before they ever get to prison physically." When survival becomes someone's daily reality, crime can become a desperate response rather than a calculated choice, she explained.

Panel discussion on stage during the Pull Up 4 Peace Conference (Photo credit: Edward Lea / City of Atlantic City)

That reality is why Pull up 4 Peace places such a strong emphasis on education, workforce development and changing mindsets alongside violence intervention.

"We have to show people opportunities," Davis said. "When they change their mindset, they ultimately change their life. But that can't happen without resources."

Davis points to Atlantic City itself as evidence that investment in violence prevention can pay dividends.

She highlighted Floyd Talley, director of Atlantic City's O.N.E. Neighborhood Evolution division, as someone whose leadership has flourished through continued professional development. Talley recently earned acceptance into a nationally recognized community violence intervention program at the university of Chicago.

"It's one of countless stories," Davis said. "People who've gone through our training are now running nonprofits, writing books, training others and doing things they never dreamed they could do."

This year's conference reflected that growing momentum. According to Davis, more than 669 attendees participated, representing well over 100 communities from around the country to exchange best practices and strengthen partnerships.

Attendees selected from 11 breakout tracks covering everything from street outreach and youth leadership to trauma recovery, policy advocacy, organizational development and public health approaches to violence prevention.

Mayor Marty Small Sr. also participated throughout the conference, joining a panel discussion about Atlantic City's violence prevention ecosystem and reaffirming the city's support for the initiative.

"The mayor believes we need a space to connect," Davis said. She credits the mayor for investing in their dreams and applying nonviolence strategies in Atlantic City.

Perhaps no group embodied the conference's mission more than 48 teenagers from Cleveland.

The students are members of a newly formed Junior Violence Interrupter program, many of whom have experienced the justice system firsthand.

Some had never traveled outside their city before boarding a charter bus bound for Atlantic City.

Rather than simply observing, they were invited onto the main stage to

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share their experiences—an opportunity Davis said helped many envision themselves as future community leaders rather than statistics.

"It was life-changing," Davis said. "They saw people across the country doing this work, and many of them said it inspired them to stay out of trouble, go back home and become leaders in their own communities."

Of course, the students also explored the Jersey Shore together, taking in the sights of the shore.

The conference featured keynote speakers including Wallo267, who spent 18 years in prison before becoming one of the nation's top podcasters, and Dr. Sheena Meade, founder of the Clean Slate Initiative,

which advocates for policies allowing eligible individuals to have criminal records cleared after meeting certain requirements.

Each speaker reinforced a common message: people's pasts do not have to define their futures.

As attendees departed Atlantic City, Davis hopes they carried home more than notebooks full of ideas.

"Camaraderie," she said when asked what she wanted attendees to remember. "Together we're better."

The work now shifts toward 2027, when organizers plan to return to Atlantic City with an even larger conference and an expanded network of violence prevention leaders. until then, Davis says every community member can play a role in creating safer neighborhoods.

"Give people second chances," she said. "Don't just look at what someone has done and label them a bad person. Resources change lives. Opportunity changes lives."

Sometimes, she said, peace begins with simply choosing to believe someone deserves another chance.

Peace Walk from Showboat to City Hall at the conclusion of the Pull Up

4 Peace Conference (Photo credit: Edward Lea / City of Atlantic City)

Ready for fireworks and a reunion

By David Weinberg

Like everyone else, my family and friends are getting ready to celebrate our country’s 250th – also known as the semiquincentennial – anniversary this week.

Plans call for us to keep tradition going and attending a pair of fireworks displays. First up is the one on the bayfront in the Town Bank section of lower Township. Interestingly, the most colorful aspect of the evening isn’t the rockets’ red glare, but the crowds that stroll along the bay front in search of funnel cakes, ice cream and hot dogs offered by food trucks parked in the street.

My assignment is always to stand in line to buy three manhole-cover sized ice cream sandwiches for my oldest grandsons, then try to maneuver through the mass of humanity to where we set up our beach chairs before the treats melt and chocolate ice cream rolls down my arms and onto my red-white-and-blue t-shirt.

In earlier days, when our children were younger and when my wife and I had more energy, we would venture down to the beach at the bay, stepping over horseshoe crabs in the

process, and set up a blanket.

Afterward, the evening ends with piling chairs and children onto a wagon and pulling it three blocks to the car, then taking various side streets to take the kids home.

July 4 means a trip to Cape May for their fireworks display. That entails trying to find a parking spot within three miles of the beachfront and hauling beach chairs through the soft sand to a spot.

We usually get there an hour early. We kill time by listening to the waves and the patriotic music coming from the various parties being held at The Grand and Montreal Resorts.

On a clear night, we can see the fireworks shows at lewes and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. On the way home, we can see Wildwood’s display while we’re sitting in traffic on the West Cape May Bridge.

This year’s celebrations is even more special for my wife and I, for we graduated from lower Cape May Regional High School in 1976, 50 years ago.

The lCMR Class of ’76 – forever known as the Bicentennial Class – will be holding its 50th reunion later this summer.

It seems like yesterday. Those of

you of a certain age may remember back to an era before cell phones, Tik Tok, electric cars and even Atlantic City casinos.

Two years would pass before entertainer Steve l awrence rolled the first dice at Resorts International in 1978.

For fans of Philadelphia sports teams, it was an awesome year.

The Phillies were National league East champions in 1976 behind lefty Steve Carlton, third baseman Mike

Schmidt, shortstop l arry Bowa, left-fielder Greg “The Bull” luzinski and centerfielder Garry Maddox. Maddox was so good that local fans had a saying that “two-thirds of the Earth is covered by water. The other third is covered by Garry Maddox.”

The problem was that was also the era of Cincinnati’s “Big Red Machine.” Catcher Johnny Bench, second baseman Joe Morgan and shortstop Dave Concepcion swept the yankees in the World Series that year.

That was also the time when the Flyers were in their prime. Bobby Clarke, Bill Barber, Dave Schultz, and the late Bernie Parent led the Broad Street Bullies to back-to-back Stanley Cups – still the only championships in franchise history – in 1974 and 1975 and reached the finals again in ’76 before losing to the Montreal Canadiens.

The 76ers were a building team that season, finishing second in the Atlantic Division behind the late George McGinnis and Doug Collins.

The next year, they added an ABA standout named Julius Erving.

The Eagles were awful.

First-year coach Dick Vermeil had some talent with wide receiver Harold

Photo by Donald B Kravitz

Carmichael, tight end Charle young, and middle linebacker Bill Bergey, but the Birds still finished 4-10.

On the local front, Millville was the dominant high school football team in those days behind running back Calvin Murray and defensive lineman the late Bubba Green. Both went on to play in the NFl

If memory serves, the late Walt Montford was among the stars on Atlantic City’ boys basketball team.

Down at lower Cape May, the Caper Tigers’ football team struggled in 1975 under coach Jim Gallagher, who went on to enjoy a legendary career at Holy Spirit and Sterling.

The basketball team was solid under coach Steve Riley and players such as Henry Wise, Mike Moore, Michael lewis and Robert “Bug” Matthews.

In baseball, coach Jack Weeks guided a crew that included catcher Eddie Hoffman, first baseman Tim Shoffler, shortstop Karl u mscheid, third-baseman Marty Franco, and a crafty left-handed pitcher.

Wrestling was lower’s best sport in those days. l ate coach Bill Garrison was in the early years of a great career. The team also featured some wrestlers who are still considered among the best in program history such as Blair Hansen – grandfather of 2026 standout Chase Hansen – and the late Michael loper.

The summer of 1976 was a blur. Graduation was followed by a few weeks of fun in the sun with my girlfriend before we went off to college.

Because there were no cell phones or laptops, we kept in touch via this ancient art called letter writing and once-a-week calls on a rotary phone.

But we made it work.

We just celebrated our 44th wedding anniversary.

Many of those student-athletes and other classmates will be attend ing the 50th reunion at the l Cape May in September.

It will be a chance to pay tribute to Michael loper and the 46 other classmates who were taken from us much too soon.

Most of all, it will be an opportuni ty to share laughs, tears and remem ber that special time when we all had hair, strong hips and knees, and could throw a baseball, swing a golf club, and jump over hurdles without groaning.

Many of us have remained friends over the years.

Karen and I are on the reunion committee along with Gail Wilsey, Chuck lear and laurie Walter.

Karen still counts Sharon Hand and Eileen Clancy among her closest friends.

I play golf all the time with Harry Tillotson, Bug Matthews and Frank “Tater” Smith.

Frank was my best man and I served the same role at his wedding.

Mike Moore is on our Trivia Team.

We all still get together at least once a year with Karen Booth, Kim Gadow, Gina Riker, Alan Holmstrup and others.

The fireworks this week will be fun.

The reunion will be legendary.

In the words of Frank “Tater” Smith: “Class of ’76 don’t back down!”

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

Train rides with Santa from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. each day.

Santa will be visiting participating shops each day for Photos.

Stores will have specials and treats.

Family friendly activities, pop-ups and contests.

PARTICIPATING SHOPS

Beachwood Trading Co.

The Bee’s Knees

Candle Shoppe

Castle in the Air

Celebrity Collectibles

Coast House & Co.

Crafting Cellar

The Glass Nook

Historic Smithville Inn

Honey Pot

House of Jerky

Indigo Sol

Olive N Grape

One Nation

Paw Dazzle

Perhaps

Shell We

Smithville Peanut Butter Co.

Sweet Things

Surf Road Coffee Bar

The Christmas Shoppe

The Village Sweet Shoppe

The Underground

DOZENS OF CRAFTING VENDORS

Sponsored by Crafting Cellar, Surf Road Coffee and Beachwood Trading Co.

OC’s Senior Center hosts Summer Kick-Off

By Roseann Smith

On Thursday, June 25, the Ocean City Senior Center hosted its 2nd annual “Summer Kick-Off “ celebration. Senior Center Event Coordinator Maryann McElroy and her dedicated staff organized an exciting party that local seniors thoroughly relished. A beach theme set the tone for the day, with seniors dressed in colorful beach attire. Right At Home, In Home & Assistance Care sponsored a photo booth with a nautical backdrop and lots of beach balls. For seniors trying their luck at sinking a hole-in-one, Autumn l akes Health Care of linwood set up a miniature

golf course. A generous contributor was The Shores at Wesley Manor, which provided an ice cream truck for partygoers to enjoy delicious, custom-made ice cream sundaes for the more than sixty participants attending.

The day began with everyone’s favorite, Zumba Gold. A 30-minute senior exercise class, Zumba Gold, was a great way for many participants to get into the groove. Following Zumba Gold, seniors began meeting up with their fellow “beach goers,” marking the beginning of the official Summer Kick-Off. Partygoers had a “beach ball” of a time taking photos with their friends.

Joe and Rubina pose for a fun picture to kick-off the 2026 summer season!

Michelle Sorento tries for a hole-in-one at miniature golf.

A miniature golf tournament enabled golfers to play several games in the spirit of friendly competition. Along with miniature golf, a “fun for all” Corn Hole game was available for those patrons who couldn’t resist tossing the bean bags around. A wonderful asset to the Ocean City Senior Summer bash was “Nails By Michelle.” l adies were treated to a glamorous manicure. The ladies all got a turn to

relax and chat with Michelle.

“The best part of these kinds of parties is being with all of my good friends; we always do our best to help each other,” says Admiral Ron Denney, who served in the uS Navy for 30 years. Joe Walters agreed, “I like being around my friends here at the center. I like seeing so many happy faces.” Chris O’halloran chimed in without hesitation, “Maryann (McElroy) and her staff, including the girls in the office and the people who work hard in the kitchen, are the best thing about coming here. It makes me feel like I’m at home.”

There’s a weighty reason why hosting parties like a Summer Kick-Off is important. “The seniors who come to our community center are all retired,” explains McElroy.

“A lot of them don’t have anything to do. Their families may live far away, so when they come to the senior center, we want everyone to have a great time.” Maryann McElroy went on to express how the city has been a vital part of the successful senior program. “Ocean City has helped foster a happy, caring community by giving seniors a wonderful place for them to come to and make friends. For many

of these people, friends have become family.”

To illustrate McElroy’s point, Mr. Walter Rider, a member of the OC Senior Center, recently passed away. According to staff members, the loss was deeply felt throughout the center, especially among the gentlemen who knew him well. Rider was a veteran who was well-liked and respected among his peers. Maryann

McElroy emphasized, “People were genuinely concerned when he (Rider) was taken to the hospital and when he passed away.”

Friendship and family are the heartbeat of the Ocean City Senior Center. In a community this tightly knit, the summer season promises plenty of laughter and camaraderie. May the mood be light, the coffee strong, and the AC on high!

Ron Young and Mary Alice Campanaro strike a pose ready for the beach at the Summer Kick-Off bash!

Hands down, Noreen Spraga, Gail Harris, Larry Gunther, and Bobbi Milne are the “girls of summer!”

What’s happening in Ocean City

Guide to Fourth of July week events

Ocean City is planning a great lineup of special events leading up to and throughout Fourth of July weekend as our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary.

Thursday, July 2

● Sand-Sculpting Contest : Open to kids, teens, adults and families. Registration is free and the sculpting begins at 9 a.m. at the Sixth Street Beach. Judging takes place by 11 a.m.

● Market Days : Ocean City’s downtown shopping district along Asbury Avenue features entertainment, face-painters, balloon-sculptors and more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

● Mummers Night : String bands strut the Boardwalk between Sixth Street and 14th Street between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

● Ocean City Pops Free Patriotic Drone Show and Outdoor Concert: The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor concert at 8 p.m. followed by a dazzling patriotic drone show presented by the Friends of the Pops orga -

nization above the beach and Boardwalk. The show will be at Carey Stadium (Sixth Street and Boardwalk). Our legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers. Face-painters will be on hand for the kids. The drone show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the sky and creating animations that salute America.

Friday, July 3

● Beach Exercise — Low Impact: Free program (no registration needed) on the beach at Sixth Street starts at 8 a.m. Bring a towel and a friend.

● Walking Club: Ocean City’s Walking Club invites people of all ages and fitness levels to join them to walk the length (or any portion) of the Boardwalk. Meet at the Ocean City Music Pier at 8 a.m.

● Broadway Under the Stars!: This outdoor show at Carey Stadium will be performed by the Vince league, a superstar band led by Pops Maestro Vince lee. Hear the best of Broadway under the stars! Ocean City favorites Shannon Cochran and David Gordon-Johnson will take you on a whirlwind tour of some of the biggest hits of modern Broadway. The concert will be at Carey Stadium, just off the boardwalk between 5th and 6th streets at 8 p.m. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice.

Saturday, July 4

● Gardens Bike Parade: Sponsored by the Gardens Civic Association Registration 9 a.m. at the longport Bridge parking lot. Parade begins at 10 a.m.

● South Ocean City Bike Parade: Sponsored by the South OC Improvement Association, City of Ocean City and the Chamber of Commerce. Registration 9 a.m. at 40th Street and Asbury Avenue. Parade begins at 10 a.m.

● Riviera Bike Parade: Sponsored by the Riviera Neighborhood. Registration at 11:30 a.m. at the leyte lane Park. Parade begins at noon.

● Mummers Band: The Greater Kensington String Band will perform two shows (1 p.m. and 3 p.m.) outside the Ocean City Music Pier.

● JULY 4 — Ocean City Pops Free Outdoor Concert: The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor concert at 8 p.m. at Carey Stadium. Our legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a

↘Continued on 44

50TH ANNUAL OCEAN CITY, NJ

MUSIC PIER TO 9TH STREET ON THE BEACH

7pm - KITE CONTEST & DEMONSTRATIONS

7:30pm - PRIZES FOR KITE CATEGORIES:

9pm - FIREWORKS

beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers. As the show ends, the fireworks display will begin.

● JULY 4 — Fourth of July Kite-Flying and Fireworks: Kite-flying competition at 7 p.m. adjacent to Music Pier. A spectacular fireworks display will top off the evening at 9 p.m. The fireworks will be launched from a barge moored off the beach at Ninth Street.

Sunday, July 5

● Direct from Sweden: The Music of ABBA Performing with the OC POPs: Some of Sweden’s most experienced and talented singers and musicians will deliver the closest ABBA experience you’ll ever get alongside the Ocean City Pops Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. at the Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

Monday, July 6

● Bruce in the USA: The World's #1 Tribute to Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band!: The concert begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com or the Music Pier Box Office.

● “America 250: Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show ”: Ocean City will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation this summer with a weekly patriotic drone show over

the beach and Boardwalk south of Sixth Street. The show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the sky and creating animations that salute America. The 15-minute shows will be held after dusk on seven Mondays from July 6 through August 17. The weekly event is made possible through a $25,000 grant from the Cape May County Board of Commissioners, sponsorships from Boardwalk merchants and city funding.

Don’t forget: The Boardwalk flag-raising ceremony — a beloved tradition in Ocean City — is held at 9 a.m. daily outside the Ocean City Music Pier

The new 34th Street Sandcastle Park Summer Entertainment Series will begin on Wednesday, July 8. The series will be on Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 8 through August 19. Events will feature themed entertainment, live performers, face painters and balloon makers. The first event (July 8) will feature the Pennsport String Band. ↘Continued from

Ocean City Theatre Company presents ‘Winnie the Pooh’ at the Ocean City Music Pier on July 7

Families are invited to join Ocean City Theatre Company (OCTC) for a delightful theatrical adventure as “Winnie the Pooh” takes the stage at the historic Ocean City Music Pier on Tuesday, July 7, at 10:30 a.m. This production launches OCTC's 2026 Children's Theatre Series, which has been creating special summer memories for children and families for more than 14 years.

Based on the beloved stories by A.A. Milne, “Winnie the Pooh” follows Pooh Bear and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood on a heartwarming journey filled with friendship, imagination and fun. This family-friendly production is perfect for audiences of all ages and continues OCTC's tradition of bringing high-quality live theatre to the Jersey Shore.

OCTC gratefully acknowledges the generous support of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as the Cape May County Division of Culture & Heritage, whose funding helps make arts programming accessible to residents and visitors throughout the region.

“Winnie the Pooh” is part of OCTC's popular Children's Theatre Series, which introduces young audiences to the magic of live performance.

Additional family-friendly productions scheduled this summer include:

● “How I Became a Pirate” — July 14

● “The Berenstain Bears” — July 21

● “Junie B. Jones” — July 28

● “Schoolhouse Rock live!” — Aug. 4

All performances take place at the Ocean City Music Pier at 10:30 a.m. and are designed to engage, entertain, and inspire young audiences.

Tickets for “Winnie the Pooh” and all Children's Theatre Series performances are available at oceancitytheatrecompany.com. Tickets are $11 in advance and $13 on the day of the performance. OCTC's box office at the Music Pier opens at 9:30 a.m. on show days.

Ocean City American Legion to host military families for weeklong retreat

The city's Morvay-Miley-Cruice American legion Post 524 has gifted three military families with a week-long trip to the resort next month.

The families will be welcomed to Ocean City on July 12 as part of the post's Rest & Relaxation Program. The families will be given use of a free condominium for the week, as well as gifts from local businesses as a thank you for their service.

The Rest & Relaxation Program began in 2013 as a way to pay tribute

to servicemen and women, said committee co-chair Joe Masington in a news release.

“Whenever military personnel are deployed, their families also share in that deployment, and we support their efforts, as well," Masington said.

Following a police and fire department motorcade and an escort into town by the legion Riders motorcycle brigade, the three families will be honored in a ceremony at noon July 12 at the American legion building on 46th Street and West Avenue.

The families will also receive personalized quilts from the South Jersey Quilts of Valor Foundation, and Mayor Jay Gillian will present the families with a ceremonial key to the city.

Other gifts will include free beach and parking passes for Ocean City, restaurant dinners and gift baskets from the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce and local businesses, and free passes to the Cape May County Zoo.

“Post 524 is proud to welcome this year’s R&R families,” said committee co-chair Jerry Bonner. “We thank all our members — Veterans, Auxiliary and the Sons of the American le -

gion — for their many contributions to these deserving, patriotic families.”

The families being awarded trips are the Henke family, laberdee family and Pecson family.

uS Navy Military Police Officer Terry l aberdee Jr. will be accompanied by his wife, Alicia-Clark l aberdee, their son Nathan, 14, and daughters Raven, 10, and Harper, 6.

uS Air Force Technical Sgt. Justin Henke and Master Sgt. Cynthia Henke will bring their son Cooper, 3, and daughter Magnolia, 1.

uS Air Force Senior Airman Mary Jane Pecson will bring her husband Ralph and daughters lucia, 16, and luna, 13.

US Air Force Technical Sgt. Justin Henke and Master Sgt. Cynthia Henke are pictured with son Cooper and daughter Magnolia. The family is one of three being gifted a weeklong trip to Ocean City in July by American Legion Post 524. Provided photo.

Seven books to toss in your beach bag this summer

By Sarah Fertsch

Summer and reading go hand in hand. There’s something magical about settling into a beach chair, the sound of crashing waves in the background, and getting lost in a story. Whether you're lounging on the sand in Ocean City, relaxing by the pool or escaping to your backyard hammock, the perfect summer read can make the season even sweeter.

Personally, I read the majority of the books that I complete each year before l abor Day. Why? Because a good read pairs well with sunwarmed skin, a cold drink with extra ice, and a big hat. The sound of waves crashing doesn’t hurt, either.

Whatever calls you back to the book, dear reader, be sure to pick up one of these trending stories before you stake out your spot on the sand:

‘My Friends’ by Fredrik

Backman

No one writes about human connection quite like Fredrik Backman. In “My Friends,” the beloved author of

The story follows a young woman named louisa and her connection to a piece of artwork, with interwoven details of the four teenagers who

inspired the work years ago. Bring tissues for this one — you may need them.

Perfect for: Anyone who loves emotional stories that celebrate the beauty of ordinary people.

‘The Swarm’ by Frank Schätzing

If your idea of a perfect beach read includes a little suspense and plenty of thought-provoking science, “The Swarm” deserves a spot in your summer stack. This international bestseller begins with strange events occurring across the world's oceans: whales attacking boats, toxic jellyfish blooms and deep-sea creatures behaving in alarming ways. As scientists race to uncover the cause, they realize humanity may be facing an intelligent force from the depths of the sea.

Part eco-thriller, part science fiction and all-consuming, this thriller combines real marine science with page-turning action. At more than 800 pages, it's the kind of epic novel readers can dive into for an entire summer down the shore.

“A Man Called Ove” delivers another moving and insightful story about relationships, loneliness and the people who shape our lives.

Perfect for: Fans of scientific thrillers, environmental mysteries and sprawling, can't-put-it-down adventures.

‘One Italian Summer’ by

Rebecca Serle

If you've ever dreamed of hopping on a plane to the Amalfi Coast, this novel is your ticket. Rebecca Serle's bestselling book follows Katy, a young woman grieving the loss of her mother. She decides to take the mother-daughter trip to Positano they had planned together, only to encounter a mysterious young woman

who bears an uncanny resemblance to her late mom.

Filled with sunshine, Italian cuisine and heartfelt reflections on love and loss, “One Italian Summer” is an emotional escape that feels like a vacation between two covers.

Perfect for: Readers who love stories about family, travel and second chances.

‘Pets and the City’ by Amy Attas

Animal lovers, this one's for you. In “Pets and the City,” renowned New york City veterinarian Amy Attas pulls back the curtain on her fascinating career caring for the beloved pets of celebrities, socialites and everyday New yorkers. Through a series of heartfelt, humorous and occasionally heartbreaking stories, Attas shares the extraordinary bond between people and their animals.

Warm, witty and deeply compassionate, “Pets and the City” is the perfect companion for a lazy summer afternoon — especially with your dog curled up beside your beach chair.

Perfect for: Animal lovers, pet parents and readers who enjoy uplifting memoirs.

‘Yesteryear’ by Caro Claire Burke

What if you could travel back in

time and experience another era firsthand?

In “ yesteryear,” Caro Claire Burke blends historical fiction and fantasy in a captivating story about identity, choices and the longing for simpler times. When a self-proclaimed “trad wife” somehow seems to end up living as a woman in the 1850s, Natalie learns that life might actually be better in the 21st century.

It's the kind of book that keeps you turning pages with a smile turned sneer.

Perfect for: Readers who love historical fiction with a political edge and perhaps a touch of magic.

‘The Five-Star Weekend’ by Elin

Hilderbrand

No summer reading list would be complete without the "queen of the beach read."

Set on the picturesque island of Nantucket, “The Five-Star Weekend” centers on a food blogger who invites friends from different stages of her life to spend a weekend together. What unfolds is a heartfelt and often messy exploration of friendship, secrets and reinvention.

With ocean breezes, complicated relationships and plenty of summer vibes, it's nearly impossible not to devour this book in one sitting.

Perfect for: Fans of juicy family drama and stories set by the sea.

‘The House in the Cerulean Sea’ by TJ

Klune

Sometimes the best summer reads transport us to entirely different worlds. TJ Klune's beloved fantasy novel introduces readers to linus Baker, a quiet caseworker sent to investigate an orphanage filled with magical children.

What follows is a whimsical, uplifting story about found family, acceptance and discovering where we truly belong.

Perfect for: Readers seeking a feel-good escape with a touch of magic.

Whether you're craving a tearjerker set on the Italian coast, a Nantucket escape or a magical adventure with extraordinary children, these titles offer something for almost every kind of reader.

So grab your sunscreen, pack your favorite beach towel and don't forget to leave a little room in your tote bag for one more thing: a really good book.

Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

Fireworks, food and fun: Your guide to a healthy Fourth at the Shore

By Robin Stoloff

The Fourth of July is one of our favorite shore traditions, full of boardwalk fireworks, backyard barbecues, and long, lazy days by the water. This year the celebration feels especially exciting as our nation marks its 250th birthday! With a little planning, we can make the holiday weekend just as safe as it is fun, without putting a damper on any of the celebration.

let's start with the grill, since it's the true centerpiece of so many of our Fourth of July gatherings. Food safety might not sound like the most exciting topic, but it's the unsung hero of a great cookout, and a little attention here goes a long way. Think of the picnic table as having its own personal clock once the spread comes out: perishable foods like potato salad, coleslaw, and anything with mayonnaise shouldn't linger in the summer heat for more than an hour before heading back into a cooler. Nestle dishes right on ice rather than just near it and keep adding fresh ice as the day

goes on. The same goes for burgers and hot dogs; once they're off the grill they cool quickly into a temperature zone where bacteria thrive, so eat up and don’t let them sit out. underdone meat is also a common source of foodborne illness. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of grilling entirely, turning "I think it's done" into "I know it's done": chicken should reach 165 degrees, ground beef 160,

and steaks at least 145 degrees. Most of us have been to cookouts where the food sits out for hours, and with temperatures predicted to climb past 90 degrees this weekend, that's a risk we should not be taking.

One more easy habit: keep raw and cooked foods on separate platters and cutting boards, since cross-contamination is one of the sneakiest ways a celebration turns into a very bad experience. Food poisoning can set in within hours and knock even the healthiest person off their feet for days, and in serious cases, it can mean a trip to the ER, which is nobody's idea of a holiday weekend. When in doubt about anything that's been sitting out too long, the safest move is to toss it out.

Hydration deserves its own spotlight on a holiday built around sunshine and outdoor fun. Between the

heat, food, and activities, it’s easy to fall behind on water without noticing. By the time we feel thirsty, our bodies may already be playing catch-up. Alcohol can also dehydrate us, especially when combined with hot sun and a full day outdoors. A good rule of thumb is to alternate water with every other beverage. For those enjoying a drink or two, eat throughout the day, pace yourself, and plan ahead with a sober driver so the celebration stays safe and enjoyable.

If fireworks are part of your celebration, whether professional displays or backyard sparklers, a little caution goes a long way. Sparklers burn at incredibly high temperatures, hot enough to melt some metals, and they're responsible for a surprising number of summer injuries, especially among young children. While it is safer to leave the fireworks to the professionals, if you are planning to light up the sky yourself, keep a bucket of water nearby, supervise kids closely, keep a safe distance from any structures, and never pick up a dud that does not light.

Sun protection is always worth a quick mention, especially on a holiday that often means a full day outside. Apply sunscreen before heading out, then remember to “redo in two” by reapplying every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating. When you can, take breaks in the shade during the strongest sun of the day and pay attention to how you are feeling in the heat. It is helpful to know the early signs of heat exhaustion. Dizziness, heavy sweating,

nausea, weakness, and a rapid pulse are all signs to get out of the sun, sip water, and cool down right away. Catching those symptoms early can make a big difference.

Water safety matters too, whether you are boating, riding jet skis, swimming in a pool, or spending the day on a crowded beach. Make sure there are enough life jackets for everyone on board, don’t drink and boat, swim near a lifeguard whenever possible, and keep a close eye on children near the water. Do not assume another adult is watching. A few simple precautions can prevent the kind of accidents no one wants to think about on a holiday weekend.

None of this is meant to take away from the fun. It is about making sure the fun lasts all weekend long and beyond. A little planning lets us focus on what the Fourth is really about, time with family and friends, good food, and fireworks lighting up the summer sky.

Wishing everyone a holiday weekend that is joyful, memorable, and safe. Happy Fourth of July and Happy 250th, America!

Robin Stoloff is an award-winning health reporter in South Jersey. A former TV reporter, she now hosts Living Well with Robin Stoloff, Sunday mornings at 10 am on Lite 96.9 WFPG.

How Allie Nunzi built Grace & Glory Yoga into a hub for wellness and belonging

Coastal Conversations

By Alanna Stoloff

With a passion for wellness, mindfulness and building strong connections, Allie Nunzi has created a space where individuals can slow down, recharge and reconnect. Through Grace & Glory yoga, located in Northfield, she brings a thoughtful and welcoming approach to health and well-being. Her work goes beyond the mat, fostering a sense of community and balance in everyday life.

AS: What inspired you to start Grace & Glory yoga, and how did your personal journey with yoga begin?

AN: Grace & Glory yoga was founded on the belief that yoga can help us live more connected, resilient and meaningful lives. Since 2012, we've worked to create a space where people feel seen, supported and part of something larger than themselves. I wanted a place to practice where everybody (regardless of shape, size or history) was not only welcome but truly belonged. We are the yoga

studio for everyone — not just people who consider themselves a "yoga person"... you need only to be a person, period. like many people, I found yoga during a season of searching, and what began as a physical practice quickly became a framework for navigating life's challenges with greater awareness, resilience and self-understanding. Over time, and now as a 40-year-old woman, I've become uninterested in perfecting poses and more interested in how yoga helps us live with greater emotional intelligence, presence, courage and authenticity.

AS: What does "Grace & Glory" mean to you, and how does it shape your approach?

AN: To me, “grace” is our ability to meet ourselves and others with compassion. “Glory” is what emerges when we fully express who we are and how we're called to serve. life asks both of us: strong and soft, kind and accountable — and here, that balance shapes everything we do.

AS: How do you build community,

CONGRATS CONGRATS GRADUATES! GRADUATES!

The John R Elliott HERO Campaign wishes the graduates of Egg Harbor Township and all neighboring high schools a safe, fun, and memorable graduation season

and what benefits does that connection bring to students' lives?

AN: Community doesn't happen by accident. From the beginning, we've tried to create opportunities for people to connect beyond the yoga mat. Through service projects, leadership programs, workshops, recovery initiatives, outdoor gatherings

and simple conversations before and after class, we've cultivated spaces where relationships can grow. One of our core values is service. When people come together around something bigger than themselves, meaningful connections naturally follow.

One of the greatest gifts of yoga is that it teaches us how to pay attention on purpose. In a world that constantly pulls us outward, yoga invites us inward. It helps us become more aware of our habits, our reactions, and our patterns. That awareness creates choice.

AS: What challenges did you face when starting your business, and how did you overcome them?

AN: like any small business owner, I've faced uncertainty, financial challenges, growing pains and moments of self-doubt. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that resilience isn't about having all the answers. It's about being willing to stay curious, adapt, keep showing up, and keep caring for others. I've also learned that success is never a solo endeavor. Grace & Glory exists because of an incredible team, supportive family,

Allie Nunzi

dedicated students and a community that continues to believe in what we're building together.

AS: Can you tell us about The leadership Studio and how it connects to your work at Grace & Glory?

AN: located in Atlantic City, The leadership Studio is a 501(c)3 nonprofit yoga studio that operates as a civic incubator and community hub. We support and empower people to gather with intention, listen deeply and live better together. We provide programs that address recovery, healing from violence and grief, and foster generational connection while we grow the next generation of community stewards.

AS: What advice would you give to someone who is new to yoga or hesitant to begin?

AN: I'm often quoted as saying "If you can move, breathe and pay attention — that's yoga" — and it is. you don't have to be flexible to start yoga. you don't have to be calm,

spiritual, fit, coordinated or know anything about yoga philosophy. you simply have to begin exactly as you are. yoga meets us where we are. In fact, some of the people who benefit most from the practice are the ones who feel like they're not "the yoga type."

AS: What are your goals for the future of Grace & Glory yoga?

AN: My hope is that Grace & Glory (and our sister organization The leadership Studio of Atlantic City) continues to be a place where people find connection to themselves, to one another and to something larger than their individual experience. We're continuing to expand our programs and educational offerings as Grace & Glory School of yoga. More than anything, I want us to remain a place of belonging. In a culture that often feels increasingly disconnected, creating spaces where people can gather, grow, serve and thrive together feels more important to the future of humankind than ever. If the next chapter allows us to deepen our impact while staying true to our values, I'll consider that a tremendous success.

As our conversation comes to a close, we extend our sincere thanks to Allie Nunzi for sharing her journey and passion for wellness. Through Grace and Glory yoga, she continues to inspire others to find balance, connection and strength in their everyday lives.

Coastal Conversations highlights people in our community who are making a meaningful impact. If you know someone who would be a great fit for a future column, please contact me at ShoreCoastalConversations@ gmail.com.

From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.

Officials urge residents to take precautions during extreme heat

As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary on July Fourth, Atlantic County officials remind residents to monitor local forecasts and heed precautions for extreme heat beginning Thursday, July 2 through Saturday, July 4.

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for Atlantic County in anticipation of temperatures reaching the mid to

Events

high 90s during this time. High heat and humidity can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke when the body is unable to properly cool itself and there is a rapid rise in body temperature.

“We want everyone to enjoy their July Fourth celebrations but urge you to take the dangers of extreme heat seriously,” stated County Executive Dennis levinson.

Health officials remind you to

JULY 3 - 5

protect yourself by staying cool and hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty; avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol which can contribute to dehydration; and cool your body temperature by spending at least a few hours in air conditioning or taking a cool shower.

Sports Card, Toys, Comics & Collectibles July Show in the Wildwoods Convention Center Boardwalk Craft Show

JULY 4

Independence Day Family and Pooch Parade in North Wildwood

Jump City Jazz Orchestra in Wildwood

July 4 Celebration in Wildwood Crest Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular in Wildwood

JULY 5

Drone Show on the Wildwood Beaches

JULY 6

Army Band Concert in Wildwood

JULY 10

Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival

JULY 10-12

New Jersey Jeep Invasion

New Jersey BBQ Championship and Anglesea Blues Festival

TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS Arts in the Parks

7 p m | June 23 - August 27

TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS

Doo Wop and Neon Night Tours

8 p m | June 16 - August 27

SATURDAY MORNINGS UNTIL AUGUST 30 Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market

7:30 p.m. | June 28- August 30

Mondays at Sunset Lake

7:30 p m | June 29- August 24

Tuesdays at Crest Arts Pavilion

7 p m | June 30 - August 25

Wednesdays at Centennial Park

7 p m | Food Trucks 5-9 p m July 1 - August 26

Thursdays at Byrne Plaza

7:30 p m | June 18 - September 10

Saturdays at Centennial Park

7 p m | June 27 - September 5

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Older adults, children, outdoor laborers, and people with chronic conditions are most at risk. Check with your doctor to know your risk level and check on elderly relatives or neighbors to see if they need help taking necessary precautions.

Pets are also susceptible to the effects of extreme heat and should not be left unattended in a closed vehicle.

Residents are advised to contact their local Office of Emergency Management for non-life-threatening emergencies. Any life-threatening emergency should be reported immediately by calling 911.

One important note, most state and local government offices will be closed Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5 in observance of the national holiday. Plan ahead should you need to find a cooling shelter or call 211 or visit nj211.org

Other advice for avoiding heat-related illness:

● Reduce physical activity outdoors or schedule for the cooler parts of the day.

● Wear loose and light-colored clothing.

● Don’t overdress children.

● Talk with your health provider to learn if any of your medications affect your body’s ability to control temperature or sweat.

● Provide outdoor pets with shelter from the sun and fresh, cold water.

● Never leave children or pets unattended in a hot vehicle.

Prompt treatment of heat-related illnesses is critical to recovery and preventing death. For further information on heat-related illness, call the Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5935 or visit the county website at www. atlanticcountynj.gov.

Here are some of the fun events happening in the Wildwoods:

More than 70 years later, Storybook Land still captures the magic of childhood

By Cindy Christy Fertsch

Before the first child races through the castle gates each morning, Storybook l and is already alive with activity.

As the sun rises over the beloved Egg Harbor Township amusement park, employees quietly water colorful flower beds, inspect every ride, sweep winding pathways and prepare each attraction for another day of making memories. By the time the first families arrive, hours of careful work have already unfolded behind the scenes.

Guests rarely witness those early morning rituals. Instead, they are greeted by immaculate gardens, smiling employees, familiar storybook characters and an atmosphere where everything seems to unfold effortlessly.

That sense of ease is no accident.

"We love hearing people say, 'Wow, that was so easy. They really thought of everything,'" owner Jessica Panetta said. "That's what we want families to remember."

It's a philosophy that has defined Storybook l and since its opening on July 11, 1955, and one that continues to distinguish it more than 70 years later.

While countless amusement parks have closed, reinvented themselves or chased the latest trends, Storybook l and has remained remarkably faithful to the vision established by founders John and Esther Fricano. Their dream was simple but enduring: create a place where classic nursery rhymes and fairy tales could come to life in a setting designed especially for young children and their families.

More than seven decades later, that vision continues to shape nearly every decision made throughout the park.

The result is something few attractions anywhere can claim — not simply longevity, but an emotional connection that spans generations.

For many South Jersey families, Storybook l and isn't just a destination. It's part of their family's story.

Grandparents who once climbed aboard the carousel or rode the train now watch grandchildren experience

those same attractions with the same excitement they felt decades ago. Parents point out favorite rides from their own childhood while introducing a new generation to timeless characters, creating traditions that continue year after year.

"To know families have made us part of their traditions for three and even four generations is incredibly meaningful," Panetta said. "That's something we never take for granted."

That enduring loyalty hasn't happened by chance.

Although nostalgia draws many families back, Storybook l and has quietly evolved over the years, carefully adding new experiences while protecting the charm that has made it one of the region's most treasured attractions.

Every addition is thoughtfully considered to complement, rather than replace, the park's timeless character.

↘Continued on 56

The railroad, introduced in 1996, quickly became a family favorite, taking guests on a relaxing journey through the park. The whimsical “Bubbles the Coaster” debuted in 2000 and continues to delight riders with streams of floating bubbles. Children found another place to cool off when the splash pad opened in 2006, and in 2025 the park unveiled its beautifully reimagined Cinderella-themed roller coaster, blending modern ride technology with a classic fairy tale.

Seasonal events have become traditions of their own.

Christmas celebrations, introduced during the 1980s, have grown into one of South Jersey's signature holiday attractions, drawing visitors from near and far. Halloween festivities, which began in the mid1990s, continue to expand each year, transforming the park into an autumn destination while preserving the family-friendly atmosphere that defines Storybook land.

Behind every new attraction, seasonal display and special event is the same guiding principle that has shaped the park for more than seven decades: continually improving the guest experience without ever losing sight of what made families fall in love with Storybook l and in the first place.

Their family-first approach has earned Storybook land a loyal following, not only among returning guests but also among first-time visitors who often leave pleasantly surprised by how relaxing a day at the park can be.

This season, guests will discover a patriotic addition celebrating America's 250th anniversary. A new Americana-inspired menu features festive favorites, including red, white and blue nachos, while displays of American flags, a majestic eagle and tributes to each branch of the u.S. military create memorable photo opportunities throughout the park.

"We're never trying to become the biggest," Panetta said. "We just want to become better."

That philosophy extends well beyond the park's gates.

Throughout the year, Storybook land partners with local schools, fire companies and organizations that serve children across South Jersey. The park also participates in Give Kids The World Village's World Passport Program, helping provide unforgettable experiences for children facing critical illnesses and their families.

Creating an inclusive environment has become another important priority.

Employees receive specialized training to better assist guests with autism and other developmental disabilities, while the park's Assisted Access Program helps qualifying families enjoy attractions with less stress and shorter wait times.

"We hear from families all the time that the experience feels calm," Panetta said. "That's one of the nicest compliments we can receive."

Even the inevitable challenges of operating a busy amusement park become opportunities to demonstrate that commitment.

Separated children are occasionally part of any crowded summer attraction, but Storybook land's staff is trained to respond quickly, calmly and compassionately. Most reunions happen within minutes, giving anxious parents peace of mind and reinforcing the sense of security that has become part of the park's reputation.

The park's connection to the community is also reflected in one of its longest-running traditions.

For more than three decades, Storybook l and has hosted its annual Car Show on the first Sunday in July.

Established by founder John Fricano Jr., in memory of his wife, Esther, the event benefits lupus research while welcoming classic car enthusiasts from throughout the region. Registered participants receive admission tickets to enjoy the park with their families, blending philanthropy with a cherished community gathering.

Just days later, on July 11, Storybook l and will celebrate another

milestone as it marks its anniversary with a festive birthday celebration featuring a parade, giveaways and family activities honoring the day the park first welcomed guests in 1955.

As one season unfolds, another is already on the horizon.

"Halloween is always exciting," Panetta said with a smile.

That forward-thinking spirit, balanced by an unwavering respect for tradition, has helped Storybook land accomplish something few attractions ever achieve.

Recently named Shore local's Favorite Amusement Park, the park continues to prove that bigger isn't always better. In an era defined by towering thrill rides and ever-changing entertainment, Storybook l and has remained steadfast in its mission to celebrate childhood, imagination and family.

Its greatest attraction isn't a roller coaster or a fairy tale castle. It's the feeling families take home with them — memories shared across generations, children discovering the wonder of make-believe and parents slowing down long enough to experience it alongside them.

Today Storybook l and remains exactly what its founders envisioned: a place where childhood wonder never grows old, where every detail is rooted in care and where the simplest moments often become the memories treasured for a lifetime.

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Top Weekly Entertainment Picks

By Steffen Klenk

America’s 250th Birthday has arrived, and there are a plethora of star-spangled activities taking shape in South Jersey. From hometown celebrations to sparkling firework displays, you won’t want to miss out on the festivities this weekend. Read all about it in our Top Weekly Entertainment Picks.

What : Borgata Fireworks Spectacular

Where: Borgata Hotel Casino

When : Friday, July 3

Time: 9:30 p.m.

Website: www.visitatlanticcity.com/ event/borgata-fireworks-spectacular/7302/

Fourth of July weekend kicks off with a stunning fireworks display over the

bay, produced by Fireworks by Grucci.

Enjoy a dazzling 20-minute display with musically synchronized pyrotechnics lighting up the Atlantic City skyline. Public viewing areas will open at 8:30 p.m. with on-site parking at the Borgata’s surface lot.

What : Drone Shows in Atlantic City

Where: Ocean Casino Resort

When : Fridays

Time: 9 p.m.

Website: www.theoceanac.com/ droneshows

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a patriotic-themed drone show over the boardwalk every Friday night through the month of July. Illuminated drones will paint the night sky with spectacular aerial formations and stunning visual displays. Guests are invited to watch the display from The Park, Ocean’s three-acre oasis.

What : Rewind Fridays

Where: The yard at Bally’s

When : Fridays

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: https://casino.ballys.com/ atlantic-city/entertainment

Take a trip back in time as your favorite tribute bands take the stage for free live performances every Friday night. Sing and dance to the greatest

hits of the 70s and 80s every week while soaking in immersive summer atmosphere just steps from the world-famous Boardwalk.

What : Historic Smithville 4th of July Parade

Where : Smithville Boulevard and Moss Mill Road

When : Saturday, July 4

Time: 9 a.m.

Website : www.historicsmithville. com/smithville-events-2/july-events/4th-july-parade

This annual parade is considered one of the largest in the entire country, welcoming over 170 units and more than 10,000 spectators every year. The parade will travel along Smithville Boulevard to Moss Mill Road, then west to Historic Smithville, where an Independence Day Ceremony at the Village Greene will honor all who have

served along with police and service members.

Who: The Disco Biscuits

Where: Borgata Event Center

When : Saturday, July 4

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/ event-calendar/the-disco-biscuits. html

Celebrate Independence Day with The Disco Biscuits as they bring their genre-defying sound to Borgata. The Philadelphia-based band has reached captive audiences across the country for their signature blend of electronic dance music, jam rock, and improvisational performances. Audiences will enjoy a night of high-energy music and extended jams.

Who: let’s Groove Tonight: The ultimate Earth, Wind & Fire Experience

Where: Superstar Theater at Resorts

When : Saturday, July 4

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : www.resortsac.com/ events-and-promotions/earth-windfire-tribute-show-tickets/ Join Resorts for an incredible night of live music featuring the legendary music of Earth, Wind & Fire, performed by let’s Groove Tonight. This exceptional ensemble of musicians will authentically recreate the group’s

signature sound, perfect for audiences of all ages.

What : Tropicana Fourth of July Fireworks

Where: Tropicana Atlantic City

When : Saturday, July 4

Time: 10 p.m.

Website: www.caesars.com/tropicana-ac

light up the summer night with a spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks display over the Atlantic City skyline. Gather your friends and family and grab a spot along the beach and boardwalk and enjoy an awe-inspiring seaside celebration.

Who: Boat House Row: A yacht Rock Experience

Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

When : Sundays

Time: 4 p.m.

Website : www.theoceanac.com/ boat-house-row-yacht-rock-experience

Celebrate the smooth sounds of the late-70s and early-80s as Boat House Row docks at Ovation Hall for weekly shows all summer long. Hear the sounds of Michael McDonald, Christopher Cross, Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, and Kenny loggins come to life with the band’s unique blend of nostalgia and studio-perfect grooves.

What : Comedian Elon Gold

Where: Marjorie & lewis Katz JCC

When : Thursday, July 9

Time: 7 p.m.

Website : www.jccatlantic. org/2026/04/28/elon-gold

Get ready for an evening of stand-up comedy as acclaimed comedian Elon Gold brings his nationally recognized show to Margate. As a seasoned actor, writer and comedian, Gold has performed on some of the country’s biggest stages and is widely known for his sharp humor, quick improvisation and storytelling.

What : America’s Birthday Bar

Where: Ocean Casino Resort

When : Now – August 31

Website : www.theoceanac.com/ restaurants/americas-birthday-bar

The 1927 lounge has been transformed into an immersive red, white, and blue experience with festive decor, photo ops, and crafted cocktails rich with American flavor. Celebrate our nation’s milestone, enjoy a lineup of signature drinks, and soak in the spirited ambiance of this pop-up experience all summer long.

What : America 250: l ights Over Ocean City Drone Show

Where: Ocean City Boardwalk

When : Mondays

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: www.visitatlanticcity.com/ event/borgata-fireworks-spectacular/7302/

Ocean City will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation with a weekly patriotic drone show over the beach and boardwalk. The show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the night sky, creating star-studded animations that salute America. The 15-minute shows will be held after dusk on Monday nights through Aug. 17.

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

Sgt. Splendor brings alt-funk sound to Atlantic City Boardwalk

Tune In Turn On

By Doug Deutsch

Always on the lookout for artists worth discovering, this columnist recently caught up with Sgt. Splendor, the alt-funk duo of Kate Vargas and Eric McFadden, who will open for Tab Benoit on Wednesday, July 8, during the free AC Mardi Gras Concerts on the Boardwalk series presented by Tony Mart.

Promotional material describes Sgt. Splendor's music as a blend of social commentary and playful imagination, wrapped in an "alt-funk" sound. The description fits. Their music moves comfortably between rock, funk, blues and Americana while maintaining a distinctive identity.

McFadden may already be familiar to blues fans. The veteran guitarist previously recorded Pain by Numbers for Benoit's Whiskey Bayou Records label and has performed with George Clinton and the P-Funk All Stars. His powerful guitar work carries a heavier edge than listeners might expect. Vargas brings an equally compel -

ling presence. Songs including "Heavy Be the Borrowed Crown," " lips Are Movin'" and "Chelsea Motel" showcase her expressive vocals, earning praise from outlets including NPR, No Depression and SPIN.

Tune In Turn On recently spoke with Vargas about the duo, its latest music and the upcoming tour.

DD: How did you and Eric first begin working together?

Sgt. Splendor, featuring Kate Vargas and Eric McFadden, will open for blues guitarist Tab Benoit at the AC Mardi Gras Concerts on the Boardwalk on Wednesday, July 8. Photo by Andrea Kash

KV: Eric and I met at Steel Bridge Songfest in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. Pat MacDonald from Timbuk3 introduced us. He invited about 40 songwriters to stay at the Holiday Music Motel for a week to write and record songs. We became fans of each other and eventually songwriting partners through that experience.

DD: Tell us about your latest album.

KV: Our most recent album, Isotopia, came out at the end of last year. It was our way of processing the current state of the world, particularly

here in the u nited States. We also have a new album coming later this year or early next year. It's produced by Falcon Greenwell, drummer for Tedeschi Trucks Band and Col. Bruce Hampton, who also plays drums on the record.

DD: What does it mean to open for Tab Benoit on his Soul of the Swamp tour?

KV: This is our first time opening for Tab as Sgt. Splendor, although Eric has toured with him before. Tab

also produced Eric's Pain by Numbers album in 2018. We'll be performing as an acoustic duo. The sound is different from the full band, but we'll bring the same energy and spirit. We're excited to see Tab every night and to perform in places we've never played before as Sgt. Splendor.

DD: Where did the band's name come from?

KV: If I recall correctly, we were scuba diving off Vulcano in the Aeolian Islands. While moonwalking at the bottom of the ocean, I tripped over a turtle. The turtle coughed and out came a badge. The name on it was Sgt. Splendor. We thought that would make a good band name.

Sgt. Splendor will perform with Tab Benoit at the AC Mardi Gras Concerts on the Boardwalk at Kennedy Plaza, 2301 Boardwalk, on Wednesday, July 8. The free concert begins at 7 p.m.

Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail.com

THURSDAYS NOW - SEPTEMBER 3*

This tribute act blends and layers the music of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors to create something new and unique for music fans everywhere.

SUNDAYS JULY 5 - SEPTEMBER 6

Get Ready for the ultimate tribute to the 70’s & 80’s, featuring soft rock such as Hall & Oates, Michael McDonald, Kelly Loggins, Christopher Cross, Steely Dan, Toto, icons of a sound that defined an era. Ticket purchase required. *No show on July 9. Ticket purchase required.

FOUR SHOWS SEPTEMBER 17 - 20 SEPTEMBER 24 - 27 JULY 24 & 25

JULY SPECIALS

• OPEN DAILY 7AM - 9PM • CLOSING 4PM ON JULY 4TH

ENTREES

FLAT IRON STEAK 24

8 oz flat iron steak topped with caramelized onions and mushrooms. Served over tomato and mascarpone orzo.

PINA COLADA MAHI 22

Pineapple glazed mahi topped with toasted coconut and served over coriander rice pilaf.

HOME MADE CRAB CAKES 24

Two home made crab cakes served with lemon caper aoli, cole slaw, and French fries.

DESSERTS

CREME BRULEE 9

NY CHEESECAKE 7

COBBLER DU JOUR 7

MONDAY

SNOW CRAB 38

TUESDAY

12 oz PRIME RIB 25

FRIDAY

LOBSTER TAIL 42

Red, white, and blue wines for the Fourth of July!

Drink Up!

By David Setley

This week we celebrate Independence Day, the most American of all holidays, and the semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. let’s hear it for the red, white, and blue! Did you know that wine is produced in all 50 states? While I won’t attempt to make recommendations from all 50, allow me to offer all-American suggestions for red, white, and even blue wines that you may enjoy over the holiday.

For our first red wine on this all-American wine tour, we’ll start in California. you are likely familiar with great Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlots, and Chardonnays produced in the state, but have you tried a Zinfandel or Petite Sirah? I would argue that California produces these two varietals better than any other place in the world. The terroir of the Paso Robles region is ideal, and the 2021 J. lohr Tower Road Petite Sirah is a great example. This wine is hand-harvested and barrel-aged in French oak for 18 months before bottling. It is the perfect wine for grilling season and pairs well with any grilled vegetables or meats. The tannins are rich but smooth. The bold flavors are blackberries, plum, and cranberry with notes of leather, chocolate, and a touch of oak. In my opinion, this is a

perfect summer red. Or try the very affordable Old Soul Petite Syrah from lodi, California.

For a great California Zinfandel, try the OZV Old Vine Zinfandel from lodi. This dry red has the rich fruit flavors of blackberries and red raspberries with a touch of baking spices. Or, experience both of these awesome grapes in The Walking Fool, a wine by Caymus Vineyards (the same Caymus famous for its highly valued Cabernet Sauvignon wines). The Walking Fool is an outstanding blend of Zinfandel and Petit Sirah grown in Caymus’ vineyards in Suisun, California. This wine has the complex flavors of ripe strawberries, cranberries, and cherries with notes of baking spices, rustic wood, leather, and espresso. Maybe the best news is that the price is less than half of what you expect from a Caymus wine! This is my “must-try” for your Fourth of July holiday.

let’s head to the Pacific Northwest. The Willamette Valley of Oregon has become famous for excellent Pinot Noirs. One of my favorite Oregon wineries is Montinore Estates, and their Montinore Borealis Pinot Noir is why. This outstanding organic wine’s aroma highlights cedar wood and forest floor while the palate is ripe with flavors of cherries and baking spices. Or try the Juggernaut Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley of California. Now, on to white. Oregon and Washington are becoming world

famous for their Pinot Gris. This varietal is known as Pinot Grigio in Italy, but as always, terroir makes the difference. The soil and environment of the Pacific Northwest give a unique crisp freshness to this grape. Try Portlandia Pinot Gris. This wine uses a blend of grapes from both states to create a perfect combination of tree fruit flavors and minerality. It’s perfect with seafood.

America’s most famous white is still Chardonnay, and, again, California’s Russian River Valley wines are my recommendation. Try the Benoni or the Balletto Chardonnay. Both are small, family-owned wineries that craft wonderful wines featuring the flavor of Chardonnay grapes.

As we head a bit further east, I’d like to recommend a sparkling wine from a state that you may not expect. My wife, Gwen, was in search of a sparkling wine for her entry to one of Passion Vines’ monthly Open that Bottle Night events a while back. In browsing the shelves, we found a Gruet sparkling wine that was made in the Methode Champenoise, the traditional double fermentation process utilized in Champagne, France. The Gruet Blanc de Blanc has earned high praise from Wine Spectator, among other wine sources, and is a brut (dry) sparkling wine made from Chardonnay grapes. I was amazed at

the yeasty brioche aroma and crisp tropical flavors of this wine. Where was it from, you ask? New Mexico, where my wife grew up (which cinched her decision in choosing it for the event). If you are looking for a sparkling wine to toast our nation’s birthday, consider this one. That covers red and white wines, but what about blue? For that, we’ll come home to New Jersey to William Heritage Winery, located in Mullica Hills. Proprietors Bill and Penni Heritage utilize sustainable farming at

their vineyards and produce a wide variety of excellent wines. Among these is a sweet wine made from blueberries grown in Haddonfield. The Heritage Jersey Blue has won the Governor’s Cup in the sweet fruit wine category and is my recommendation for a blue wine this Independence Day. It’s well-made and is perfect for guests who prefer something fruitier and sweeter. What color do you get when you mix red and white? Pink! I’ll finish our American wine tour in New york with

a perfectly named wine for the season: Summer in a Bottle long Island Rosé, from Wolfer Estates. This wonderful rosé is comprised of an array of red and white grapes, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Petit Meunier, Cayuga, and Syrah. Impressive, right? Acidity adds the crisp freshness we look for in a good rosé, and I am a big fan of the minerality, light salinity, and long finish of this dry wine. Summer in a Bottle is perfect with spicy foods. It may be the perfect wine for fireworks! Another outstanding rosé is the l amoreaux l anding Dry Rosé from the Finger l akes of New york. This is a great wine made from Cabernet Franc grapes grown on the estate on Seneka lake. The flavor and dryness of this wine earns my top rosé recommendation for this great American holiday.

Celebrate America by offering your guests red, white, blue, and rosé wines this Independence Day. As always, contact me with any questions at dsetley@passionvines.com, or stop into the store. until next time, happy birthday, America! And happy wining!

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

Grub Club

Exploring Atlantic City's restaurant scene

By Marcella Curcio

hen most people think of Atlantic City, they picture casino lights, entertainment, nightlife, and the iconic Boardwalk. But beyond the gaming, dance floors, and beach crowds, Atlantic City has built one of the Jersey Shore's most diverse dining scenes.

From family-owned restaurants that have served generations of locals to award-winning steakhouses and internationally recognized restaurants, there's something for every appetite. Whether you're looking for a special occasion dinner, fresh seafood, authentic Italian cuisine, or a casual beachfront meal, Atlantic City continues to prove it's much more than a casino destination.

This week's Grub Club is hitting the jackpot with some of Atlantic City's must-visit restaurants.

A true Atlantic City classic, Knife & Fork Inn has welcomed guests for generations and remains one of the city's signature fine-dining destinations. Walking through its doors feels like stepping back in time, with rich wood accents, elegant décor, and an old-school atmosphere.

The menu specializes in premium steaks and fresh seafood, from oysters and seafood towers to expertly prepared beef and lamb. Every time I've ordered lobster here, it's been incredibly fresh and perfectly cooked. It's one of those places where the quality never seems to disappoint.

Their handcrafted cocktails make a great way to start the evening, and I highly recommend saving room for dessert. Whether you choose a slice of cake or one of their dessert cocktails, it's the perfect ending to a memorable meal.

l ocated inside Resorts Casino Hotel, Capriccio has long been considered one of Atlantic City's premier Italian restaurants. The elegant dining room is paired with warm hospitality, creating an experience that feels upscale without being intimidating.

The homemade pasta is always a standout. My favorite is the lobster ravioli served in a creamy blush sauce. Rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, it's a dish I find myself ordering again and again.

Capriccio also offers an extensive wine list, making it an excellent choice for date nights, celebrations, or anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine.

Inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Council Oak Steaks & Seafood delivers a modern steakhouse experience with exceptional service and premium ingredients.

Its wine program features more than 350 selections from around the world, while the menu includes everything from Wagyu meatballs and raw bar platters to premium steaks, lobster, and bluefin tuna.

If you're visiting during happy hour, several signature menu items are available at special pricing. Before you leave, don't skip the chocolate layer cake. It's one of my favorite desserts in Atlantic City.

Also located inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Kuro elevates Japanese cuisine through beautiful presentation and bold flavors.

As a self-proclaimed crispy rice enthusiast, the Tuna Crispy Rice is always my first order. The Wagyu tacos are another favorite and have become one of the restaurant's signature dishes for good reason.

From hand rolls and sashimi to specialty sushi and creative small

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July 2, 2026

plates, every visit feels like a unique dining experience.

Not every meal in Atlantic City must be a fine-dining experience. Sometimes all you need is ocean views, good company, and a casual meal.

located directly on the beach off the Boardwalk, landshark Bar & Grill offers exactly that. Outdoor seating overlooks the ocean, making it one of my favorite places to unwind after a beach day or take a break while walking the boards.

The menu features seafood, sandwiches, tropical drinks, and classic beach-bar favorites in a laid-back atmosphere that's hard to leave.

Few restaurants capture Atlantic City's Italian heritage like Angelo's Fairmount Tavern. Family-owned for generations, it's a longtime favorite among locals and visitors alike.

My dad has always loved Angelo's Fairmount Tavern because it reminds him of the classic Italian restaurants throughout South Philadelphia. There's something comforting about the welcoming atmosphere and generous portions.

One of my favorite dishes is crab pasta with spicy marinara. The fresh seafood and bold flavors remind me of summer at the Jersey Shore, no matter what time of year it is.

Few restaurant names carry the recognition of Nobu. located inside Caesars Atlantic City, the world-renowned Japanese restaurant is known for exceptional seafood and innovative cuisine.

I love ordering the omakase, which allows the chefs to showcase a carefully curated selection of premium sashimi and signature specialties. Every course highlights the freshness and quality that have made Nobu famous around the world.

Whether you're celebrating something special or simply treating yourself, Nobu delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

located inside Golden Nugget Atlantic City, Chart House pairs waterfront marina views with an impressive menu of seafood and steakhouse classics.

Its elegant yet relaxed atmosphere makes it equally suited for date nights, family celebrations, or a relaxing dinner overlooking the water.

A true Atlantic City institution, Dock's Oyster House has been serving fresh seafood for generations.

For many families, including ours, it's simply one of those restaurants you have to visit whenever you're in town. The menu features oysters, shellfish, fish specials, and classic

seafood dishes that have stood the test of time.

Restaurants come and go, but Dock's continues to thrive because it consistently delivers excellent seafood and outstanding service.

If you're looking for something casual, Tony Boloney's serves some of the most creative pizza and comfort food around.

Beyond pizza, you'll find wings, subs, mozzarella sticks, loaded fries, and other crowd favorites.

I've noticed that whenever someone brings Tony Boloney's pizza to a party, the boxes barely stay open before every slice disappears. That's usually a pretty good sign.

No trip to the shore is complete without dessert. located near Stockton university, Island Creamery has become a favorite among college students, locals, and visitors alike. The shop has grown so much over the years that it has expanded into Ocean City.

The homemade ice cream is incredibly creamy, with enough flavors that it's nearly impossible to pick just one. My go-to order is a waffle cone dipped in chocolate and covered with sprinkles, although I usually switch up the ice cream flavor every visit.

Every time I've brought friends or coworkers here, they leave talking about how good the ice cream was.

Atlantic City's dining scene continues to evolve while honoring the restaurants that helped build its reputation. From legendary seafood houses and family-owned Italian restaurants to world-class steakhouses, sushi destinations and beachfront bars, the city offers a dining experience that extends far beyond the casino floor.

Whether you're visiting for the weekend or you're a longtime local, there's always another great meal waiting to be discovered in Atlantic City.

Atlantic City Headliners

Thursday, July 2

Magical Mystery Doors

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Friday, July 3

Stavros Halkias

▶9 p.m. Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Saturday, July 4

The Disco Biscuits

▶8 p.m. Borgata Event Center

Let’s Groove Tonight: Earth, Wind & Fire Ultimate Tribute

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Sunday, July 5

Boat House Row

▶4 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Wednesday, July 8

Tab Benoit

▶7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza

Friday, July 10

Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock live at Etess Arena

Tom Papa

▶9 p.m. The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, July 11

The Guess Who

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock live at Etess Arena

Tom Papa

▶9 p.m. The Music Box at Borgata

Russell Peters

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theatre at Caesars

DeRay Davis

▶8 p.m.

The Concert Venue at Harrah’s

Sunday, July 12

Jeff Dunham

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Grease the Musical

▶3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Friday, July 17

Adam Lambert

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Weird Al Yankovic

▶8 p.m. Borgata Event Center

Lucas Zelnick

▶7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, July 18

Dirty Heads and 311

▶5:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Quincy Jones Experience feat. Dave

Friday, July 24

Harry Connick Jr.

▶8 p.m.

Borgata Event Center

Bingo Loco

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock live at Etess Arena

Matt Rife

▶7 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Super 70s Show feat.

Super Trans Am

▶9 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Saturday, July 25

Shakira

▶8:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Matt Rife

▶7 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Dick Fox’s Golden Boys

▶4 p.m.

Hard Rock live at Etess Arena

Michael Blaustein

▶8 p.m. Borgata Event Center

The Machine Performs Pink Floyd

▶9 p.m.

Damiani & No Vacancy Orchestra

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Dusty Slay

▶7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Desi Banks

▶8 p.m. Tropicana Showroom

Derek Hough: Symphony of Dance

Encore

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theatre at Caesars

Vishal-Sheykhar

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock live at Etess Arena

Sunday, July 19

Golden Nugget Atlantic City

Buju Banton & Stephen Marley

▶7 p.m.

Hard Rock live at Etess Arena

The Used

▶8 p.m. Borgata Event Center

Absecon Concerts in the Park

▶Sunday, July 5, 7 p.m.

Heritage Park

Free Outdoor Concerts

Mark your calendars this Sunday for Concerts in the Park in Absecon, sponsored by the Absecon Parks and Playground Committee. Enjoy an evening top hits by the Matrix Band. Bring a chair and blanket and enjoy a rockin’ good time. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.

Brigantine Summer Concert Series

▶Wednesday, July 8, 7 p.m.

Brigantine Community Center

Side lawn, 265 42nd Street

Join the Brigantine Community, Education, and Recreation Department this Wednesday for their outdoor concert series, featuring a Beatles tribute by Beatle Soul. Bring a beach chair or blanket. In the event of inclement weather, the show will be moved to the Brigantine Community School Auditorium. The Brigantine Summer Concert Series will be held on Wednesdays throughout the season.

EHT Rhythm in the Park ▶Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m.

Robert J. lincoln Amphitheater at Tony Canale Park

Join Egg Harbor Township Parks and Recreation for their weekly concert series. On July 2, enjoy an evening of live doo-wop by Nostalgix, and mark your calendars as Sweet Inspiration brings classic hits to the EHT stage on July 9.

Jazz on the Beach Concert Series

▶Thursday, Aug. 6, 7 p.m.

Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City

Mark your calendars and join the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation for their annual Jazz on the Beach Concert Series, featuring an eclectic lineup of acclaimed jazz artists and musicians.

Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point

▶Friday, July 10, 7 p.m.

William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Ave.

The legacy Beach Concerts in Somers Point will return next week with Dead Zep. This ensemble of premier jam rockers, led by Wayne Scheller and Rich “Megahurtz” Kurtz will mesmerize audiences with melodic melodies of the Grateful Dead and led Zeppelin. Visit www.somerspointbeachconcerts.com for the full summer lineup.

Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk

▶Wednesday, July 8, 7 p.m.

Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City

The Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk Concert Series welcomes Southern louisiana Blues Rock Headliner Tab Benoit for a spectacular evening of rhythm, with special guest Sgt. Splendor. Visit www.tonymart.com for more information.

Margate Library Concert on the Beach

▶Sunday, July 12, 6:30 p.m.

Huntington Avenue Beach

Join Margate Public library for an

evening of live music featuring Don’t Call Me Francis. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy a spectacular dance party under the stars.

Sunset at Ski Beach

▶Wednesday, July 8, 6:30 p.m.

Ski Beach, Ventnor

Join Ventnor City for their upcoming concert at Ski Beach concert. Don’t Call Me Francis will provide a spectacular evening of hits from the '70s to today. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.

Ventnor Summer Beach Jam

▶Saturday, July 11, 6:30 p.m.

Newport Avenue Beach

Join Ventnor City for their upcoming Summer Beach Jam as they welcome the Derek Crider Band to the stage. Audiences will enjoy a special evening of country rock classics and popular songs. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.

Ventnor Summer Beach Jam Photos by Steffen Klenk

MAYA adds to the ‘beachy’ vibes at Resorts

By Chuck Darrow

There’s no question that when it comes to foodand-drink outlets with beachy vibes, Resorts Casino-Hotel leads the local pack thanks to it being the home of both the Margaritaville and l andShark Bar & Grill. But during the summer months, MAyA adds to the tropical atmosphere.

While the two Jimmy Buffett-created outlets mentioned above are designed to evoke the Florida Keys, the postage-stamp sized MAyA, which is located at the corner of Boardwalk and North Carolina Avenue, and which is in its second summer of operation, looks westward for inspiration, specifically the Mexican resort town of Tulum.

“We were trying to bring something different to Atlantic City,” offered lee Sanchez, corporate director of operations for Momentum Hospitality, a North Jersey-based company that operates a dozen local food-and-drink outlets including Guy Fieri’s Chicken Guy and Johnny Rockets burgerteria. “Every restaurant celebrates the beach; there are lots of fun, upbeat bars, but no one re -

ally embraces that laid-back beach style of Tulum. And that's really what we were trying to do.”

While food is available, (more on that later), MAyA is primarily a cocktail lounge. And given its theme, it shouldn’t be surprising that the emphasis is on “tropical” drinks. The extensive bill of liquid fare includes five different margaritas, popular cocktails like mojito, espresso martini and tequila sunrise and a half-dozen “signature” mixed drinks with names like “Tea in Tulum” (citrus; black tea; 80-proof Skyy vodka; fresh mint and crystalized lemon) and “Endless Summer” (Cruzan rums; coconut water; pineapple juice; hand-shaken vanilla ice cream; fractured caramel served in a golden pineapple), which Sanchez described as the bar’s ultimate concoction.

There are also frozen drinks, a variety of beer and even a tequila flight boasting three different types of the popular Mexican liquor. Alcohol-free drinks are also available.

5

“Part of what we tried to do is bring a lot of fresh flavors to the table,” noted Sanchez, a former food-and-beverage executive at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City. “Things that are light and seasonable. So, we brought a lot of [standard] cocktails and used that as the base to build the menu. We make them a little bit more modern, lighten 'em up for the beach and make 'em a little bit more exciting.”

Sanchez is especially proud of MAyA’s margaritas which, he said, “Really speak to true Mexican culture and the flavors of them. We don’t use drink mixes like everyone else uses. We use only fresh juice. There's very little sugar, and in fact, we actually use agave to sweeten them. But we use fresh, hand-squeezed lime juice, lemon juice and orange juice to build what we call ‘triple-lime.’

“That is the basis of every margarita we make. So, you've got explosions of flavor. And then we increase the flavor profiles using things like mezcals.”

While adult beverages are the raison d’etre for MAyA’s existence, food is definitely part of the equation. The atmosphere is meant to evoke Tulum, but the menu — which features tacos, nachos and empanadas among other items — is wider in geographical scope.

“The food is meant to be street food,” explained Sanchez. “It's inspired by a lot of global influences.” As an example, he noted that the cheese empanada is made with Calabro ricotta cheese, which is actually an Italian cheese made in Connecticut. He added the inclusion of an Italian ingredient is perfectly logical.

“ you'll see some Italian influences [in the food] because at the end of the day, the company's made up a bunch of old Italian guys,” he chuckled. “Some of us are Spanish, some of us are Irish, but we all bring a lot of that family culture and vibe and that shared experience to it.”

For more, go to mayaatlanticcity. com.

Bar-hopping at Caesars

Speaking of casino bars, Caesars Atlantic City has plenty to offer revelers this summer.

For those seeking the ever-popular “elevated” experience, Nobu Atlantic City, the gaming hall’s ultra-luxe Asian-Peruvian dining salon, is not only keeping its popular late-night programming every Saturday from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., but now the fun extends to Fridays. “Nobu l ate Night” features live DJ entertainment, curated cocktails and exclusive munchies in its lounge overlooking the Boardwalk.

If you’re seeking something a little rowdier, the midtown pleasure dome’s The West is offering $4 draft specials and $7 cocktails every Friday and Saturday. There are also $10 blackjack and roulette tables on Saturdays. Guests can also avail themselves of music from live bands, play a game or three of beer pong, and try their hand (and butt) on the mechanical bull.

And last night, the new Beach Bar was scheduled to have its grand opening (more on it next week).

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

MAYA, an intimate, Boardwalk cocktail lounge at Resorts Casino-Hotel, is in its second summer of operation.

The Shore Starts Here

Celebrate America's 250th at Ocean Casino Resort's patriotic pop-up

Visitors looking to add a patriotic twist to their holiday weekend can stop by Ocean Casino Resort's America's Birthday Bar, an immersive Americana-themed pop-up celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary.

The limited-time attraction features festive red, white and blue décor, colonial drummers and costumed historical figures, creating a fun backdrop for photos and holiday celebrations. Guests can also enjoy themed

A summer visit to Vagabond Restaurant

By Gary Mazin

The word vagabond refers to someone who wanders from place to place without a fixed home or steady job. For residents of Atlantic City and the surrounding communities, however, the word vagabond has taken on a new meaning. Thanks to its loyal customers and owner and manager Tom Harris, Vagabond has become synonymous with great food, memorable experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere.

During the summer months, the restaurant becomes a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Since opening in March 2013, Vagabond has grown into one of Atlantic City's favorite dining spots, even earning national recognition with a feature on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" on the Food Network.

According to Harris, some of the most rewarding aspects of owning the restaurant are creating new menu items, trying different foods, and meeting new people. His passion

for food and hospitality continues to shape the restaurant's ever-evolving menu.

Since opening its doors, Vagabond has enjoyed tremendous support from the local community. I've personally visited the restaurant several times and am a big fan of its turkey burgers, which can be customized with a variety of toppings. Other customer favorites include

Happy Hour one-pound wings, and Tail Tenders. What motivates Harris to continue working so hard? The answer is travel.

"My wife and I are big travelers," Harris says. "We both know that to travel the world the way we do, it takes a lot of hard work. My motivation is to see all of the world, all of the continents, and all of the best beaches."

His travels often inspire new additions to Vagabond's eclectic menu. Harris has also found a way to combine work and adventure through Vagabond's food truck, which has traveled well beyond the Jersey Shore to destinations including Kissimmee, Florida; Panama City Beach, Florida; Alabama; and Indianapolis.

For those considering a career in the restaurant industry, Harris offers some simple but valuable advice.

"Working at a restaurant at any age is great," he says. "It's worth it because you get to meet so many coworkers and customers."

When asked to describe a summer day at Vagabond in three words, Harris didn't hesitate: "Energetic, fulfilling, and memorable."

tions. What began as a struggling establishment has become a local landmark. Today, Vagabond has expanded to two locations — Atlantic City and Egg Harbor Township. While the restaurant stays busy throughout the year, summer is by far its busiest season. Although the kitchen staff remains consistent year-round, additional front-of-house employees are hired to help accommodate the increase in customers during the warmer months. Whether working indoors or outdoors, Harris enjoys every aspect of the business. During the summer, however, much of his time is spent outside, managing both the restaurant and its popular food truck.

Whether you're a longtime local or visiting for the first time, Vagabond is a casual, family-friendly restaurant well worth experiencing. With its welcoming atmosphere, creative menu, and dedicated staff, it's easy to see why it has become such a beloved

During my visit on a summer evening, I noticed that the restaurant was filled with the sounds of conversation, families enjoying dinner, and vacationers relaxing after a day at the beach. The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make Vagabond a place guests return to throughout the summer.

Harris admits that Vagabond's success has exceeded his expecta -

part of the Atlantic City community. If its past success is any indication, Vagabond's future looks just as bright — for this summer and for many years to come.

Gary Mazin is a long time Ventnor resident. He has a love of writing, reading comic books and watching movies. He is a published author and is a graduate of both ACCC and New York Film Academy.

the Turkey Apple Brie sandwich, the Three-Way sandwich, Signature Fries,

Hard Rock Atlantic City marks anniversary by giving back to community

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City celebrated its eighth anniversary by partnering with the Community FoodBank of New Jersey to help families experiencing food insecurity.

Team members gathered to assemble more than 800 birthday-themed food boxes, joined by lookalikes portraying some of music's most recognizable artists. The boxes

were designed to provide children and families with supplies to celebrate birthdays throughout the year.

The volunteer effort was part of the resort's anniversary celebration and reflects Hard Rock Atlantic City's ongoing commitment to supporting the local community through charitable initiatives.

June 28 was officially proclaimed "Hard Rock Day" by Atlantic City officials when the resort opened

in 2018. Since then, the casino has marked its anniversary by recognizing team members, guests and community partners while supporting organizations throughout the region.

The birthday box initiative follows another recent fundraising effort benefiting the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Earlier this month,

Hard Rock Atlantic City hosted the organization's inaugural Meal on a Mission: A Chef's Tableside Experience. During the event, country music star Darius Rucker presented a $50,000 donation on behalf of Hard Rock Atlantic City and the Boardwalk 1000 Foundation to support the food bank's mission of serving residents facing food insecurity. July 2,

Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, July 2

Atlantic City

Anchor Rock Club

Stone Horses

7 p.m.

247 S. New york Ave.

Angeloni’s Club Madrid

Bob Mower

6 p.m.

2400 Arctic Ave.

LandShark Bar & Grill

Scott Shelby. 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

DJ Mike Dinardo

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Dane Anthony

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

B Street Band

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Turning the Tide

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Linwood

Fox Den at LCC

Bryan McCloud

6 – 10 p.m.

500 Shore Rd.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Going Rogue

8 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Steph & Dan Duo

5 – 8 p.m.

Karaoke Night w/ DJ Mike

8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

That 70’s Band

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s Chris yoder

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Fitzpatrick’s

Andy Frankel

5 – 8 p.m.

650 New Rd.

Josie Kelly’s

Toni Teschner & Billy Walton

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

The Point

Sensational Soul Cruisers

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Friday, July 3

Atlantic City

Anchor Rock Club

Emo Night w/ DJ David Earl & Karle Gwen

8 p.m.

247 S. New york Ave.

Bally’s Beach Bar

Bergen Boys

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Borgata B Bar

Dan Jost Trio

7:30 – 11 p.m.

Megan Knight Trio

11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m.

1 Borgata Way

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Isn’t it Always Duo

7 p.m.

No Filter

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s

Sara & Tom

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

CiBon Duo

6 – 10 p.m.

Special K

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Cheers the Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Don’t Call Me Francis

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The West at Caesars

The Audio Files

10 p.m.

2100 Pacific Ave.

The Yard at Bally’s

Separate Ways: Journey Tribute

2,

9 p.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Jimmy Brogan Duo

9 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Jumper

1 – 5 p.m.

3AM Tokyo

6 – 10 p.m.

DJ Pat Man

10 p.m. – close

1400 Ocean Ave.

Galloway

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Tonny Nappi & Walter Sapsai

7 – 10 p.m.

1 N. New york Rd.

La Masa Tequila and Taco Bar

Beth Tinnon

6 – 9 p.m.

325 E. Jimmie leeds Rd.

Margate

Bocca

No Clue Duo

7 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Memories

FM Band

8 p.m.

9518 Amherst Ave.

Tideline

Zach Runfolo

4 p.m.

DJ Ricky Fatts

7:30 p.m.

9317 Amherst Ave.

Ventura’s Greenhouse Tiki Bar

Steve Moore & Company

7 – 10 p.m.

106 S. Benson Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Karly C & Rebel y ’all

7 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay X-Stream Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

That 70’s Band

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

lisa Chavous Band

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Fitzpatrick’s Phil Stocker

5 – 8 p.m.

650 New Rd.

The Point

FunZa luv

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

William Morrow Beach

NJ British Invasion

5:30 – 9 p.m.

800 Bay Ave.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater Marina Blitz

6 – 10 p.m.

2780 7th Ave.

Saturday, July 4

Atlantic City

Anchor Rock Club

lovelight: Grateful Dead Tribute

6:30 p.m.

Official Disco Biscuits Afterparty w/ DJ Brownie & DJ Baba G

11 p.m.

247 S. New york Ave.

Bally’s Beach Bar Party Wave

2 – 6 p.m.

Austin City Nights

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Borgata B Bar

The Pickles Trio

7:30 – 11 p.m.

The Original Copy

11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m.

1 Borgata Way

Borgata Beer Garden yani

1 – 5 p.m.

1 Borgata Way

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Original Copy Trio

7 p.m.

Steal the Sky

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s Tom Malandro

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Steve Moore & MIA

5 – 9 p.m.

Twisted livin’

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Steel Pier

One Hot Mess

7 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Camille K Band

2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Party Wave

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Kenny Raye Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Who Brought the Dog

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Photo credit: Turning the Tide Facebook

The West at Caesars

Split Decision

10 p.m.

2100 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Who Brought the Dog Duo

9 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Dirty Dance & Rock Band

1 – 5 p.m.

Gypsy Wisdom

6 – 10 p.m.

DJ Pat Man

10 p.m. – close

1400 Ocean Ave.

Galloway

Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light

Chad Miller

7 – 10 p.m.

1 N. New york Rd.

Margate

Memories

Jamison. 8 p.m.

9518 Amherst Ave.

Tideline

DJ Dave Gordon

3 p.m.

DJ Clinton Conyer

7:30 p.m.

9317 Amherst Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

The Blitz

7 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Dr. Phil & The Heart Attacks

4 – 8 p.m.

I Candee Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

That 70’s Band

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

lisa Chavous Duo

1 – 4 p.m.

Matt Adams Duo

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Margate

Tideline

DJ Chris Devine

4 p.m.

DJ Troc

7:30 p.m.

9317 Amherst Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Philly Keys

6 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

The O’Fenders

4 – 8 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

The Budesa Brothers

The Point

6 – 9 p.m.

Mystery Machine

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

William Morrow Beach

Born to Run Down the Dream

5:30 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

Maya & Nat

1 – 4 p.m.

Jazzmen

6 – 9 p.m.

800 Bay Ave.

Strathmere

Deauville Inn

Gilligan yacht Rock

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

201 W. Willard Rd.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater Marina Juicy Trio

12 – 4 p.m.

Goody Blue Shoes

6 – 10 p.m.

2780 7th Ave.

2 Broadway

Pablo

Queso Mixto DJ Trio

6 p.m.

101 E. Maryland Ave.

The Point

The Verdict

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater Marina

Hickstown Road

2 – 6 p.m.

2780 7th Ave.

Tuckerton

Sunday, July 5

Atlantic City

Bally’s Beach Bar

Take 2

2 – 6 p.m.

laura lea Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Borgata Beer Garden

Sky City Social

1 – 5 p.m.

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Michael Allman Band

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

217 E. Main St.

Monday, July 6

Atlantic City

LandShark Bar & Grill

Smokey Starr

5 – 9 p.m.

1 Borgata Way

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Dueling Pianos

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

1133 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Jexxa Duo

7 – 11 p.m.

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

High Tide Duo

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

The Exceptions

2:30 – 6 p.m.

Don’t Call Me Francis

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Red

6:30 – 10:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Whiskey Killers

7:30 – 11:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Incognito

1 – 5 p.m.

The FM Band

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Somers Point

Crab Trap

Dave Turner

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

↘Continued on 83

Crabby Jack’s

lew london & Bob Mower

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

The Point

Brian Kmetz

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Tuesday, July 7

Atlantic City

LandShark Bar & Grill

Duval Street Duo

5 – 9 p.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Patty & Bugzy

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Steel Pier

Bar None Duo

7 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Hawkins Cove

6:30 – 10:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

DJ Johnny looch

8 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Twisted livin’. 6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris

7 – 9 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

One Hot Mess

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s Jeff X 6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Josie Kelly’s

DJ Special K

5 – 9 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

The Point

Mike Tobin

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Wednesday, July 8

Atlantic City

LandShark Bar & Grill

Brian & Mindy

5 – 9 p.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Michael Stevens

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Triple Rail Turn

6:30 – 10:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Jason Dumm Band

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Margate Bocca

live Jazz with Bob Sterling & The Bocca Boys

7 – 10 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Tideline

Gene Shepherd 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Open Mic Night w/ Blue Eagle 7:30 – 11:30 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

Jesse Dean

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

Dave Turner

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Josie Kelly’s

Jimmy Brogan

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

The Point

Carl Stokking

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Events subject to change.

Twisted Livin’ Photo by John Loreaux

By Delaney Crawford

GA local’s guide to a perfect South Jersey summer day

rowing up in Atlantic County, just minutes from our beautiful beaches, meant unlimited beach days, ice cream dates and trips to the boardwalk with friends. It also meant that we knew all the perfect ways to take full advantage of every single summer day, making the season seem like it would last forever. If you’re looking at the calendar wondering how it is already July, this one’s for you.

Here is a local’s guide to a picture-perfect South Jersey summer day:

Wake up for sunrise

OK, all you night owls, I know this may seem challenging, but I swear it is one of the best times of the day, especially on the beach. Set a few alarms and shake off the sleep, because watching the sunrise come up over the water is truly the perfect start to any day. During the summer, the air is warm, the ocean is calm and you can sit on a quiet beach and take in the place before the rest of the world wakes up.

Walk the Boardwalk

Now that you’re up before the masses, take the opportunity for a nice long walk on the boardwalk. Cruise along with the sun low in the sky and fewer people milling around, then hear the ocean as it begins to pick up for the day. It’s a great way to add a little movement to your morning as well.

Grab breakfast

OK, since you’ve been up before the sun, the only reasonable next stop would be coffee and breakfast too. There are so many great break-

Happy hour

A local favorite is definitely a no-shower happy hour. Grab your cute cover-up, dust off the sand, then head off the beach as it starts to get busy. The goal is to be at your first stop between 3 and 4 p.m., the perfect time to slowly ease into the night by having a quick drink and a late lunch bite. May we suggest Ventura’s Greenhouse or Sunrise Tequila Bar?

Dinnertime

After your quick post-beach stop, it’s time to head home and freshen up. Take a shower and throw on your cutest summer fit because now is the time for the fun to really start. The dinner options around here are always incredible. If you’re looking to head over to Atlantic City and stop in Ocean Casino, the dinner options and nightlife are plentiful. Alternatively, pop over to Margate, where the younger crowd tends to hang

fast spots right on the island or off. Hop over to Gilchrist in Atlantic City and Margate or pop over the bridge to CJ’s in Somers Point. So many options, so many good food choices.

Head to the beach

Now for a good old classic beach day. The tip is to get there early, before the crowds, so you can scope out the best spot. Make sure to check the tide schedules and then sit where you feel the best. Pack your cooler beforehand with all the drinks and snacks you need, and then sink into the sand. Bonus points if you’ve got a good summer read by Emily Henry to tackle while you’re down there.

out. From Tideline to lambert’s, the whole strip on Amherst Ave provides good food that translates into a great night out.

Head home

After you’ve eaten and drunk your share, it’s time to head home and do it all over again the next day because it's summer. It's the time to be alive. Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DLC Media, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.

By Doug Deutsch

FWWE thrills a full house at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

ull confession: I have always had an interest in the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), ever since I was a little kid, but I’d never been to a live event (not counting a pre-Wrestlemania event I covered for the now-defunct Whoot! Newspaper in the 1980s at Resorts).

So when I learned the WWE was returning to Jim Whelan’s Boardwalk Hall for a double taping of its two flagship shows, RAW and Smackdown, this was an event we just had to attend! Boardwalk Hall can seat 14,770 people. From what we saw this past Monday night, there wasn’t a single empty seat in the Hall. WWE is all about spectacle and surprise. From the elaborate costumes worn by many of the wrestlers (called "WWE Superstars") to watching a sneak attack on a babyface (wrestling lingo for the good guy/girl) by a heel (bad guy/girl), there’s rare -

ly a dull moment at a WWE event, and Monday night’s show(s) was full of twists and turns (all choreographed with the "winners" pre-determined, of course; that’s wrestling!).

For this taping, WWE brought most of the roster’s current top stars such as WWE World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns; The usos; Seth "Freakin" Rollins; Charlotte Flair (daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Rick Flair); l A Knight; Rey Mysterio; WWE Women's World Heavyweight Champion liv Morgan; WWE Men's King Of The Ring, Oba Femi; Brock lesnar and more. Besides the obvious fun of an event like a WWE live show, it was especially fun to hear all the excitement and shrieks of the young kids in the crowd.

Word has it the WWE was happy with the sold-out show and may return to Atlantic City sooner than later in the future. Way to turn out for the big shows, AC!

WWE World Champion Roman Reigns (l) with his ‘cousin,’ enforcer Jacob Fatu (r) at WWE event at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Photo by David Holtzman

By Sarah Fertsch

BBeach bucket cocktails made for holiday weekends

efore the burgers hit the grill and the first sparkler lights the night sky, another holiday weekend tradition is already taking shape around the Jersey Shore: someone arrives carrying a brightly colored beach bucket sloshing with ice, fruit and enough cocktails to keep the whole crew refreshed.

Equal parts conversation starter and party centerpiece, these oversized batch drinks have become a staple of backyard barbecues, pool parties and shore house gatherings. From a watermelon transformed into a boozy punch bowl to fruity margaritas and blueberry lemonade with a grown-up twist, these crowd-pleasing recipes deliver big flavor with minimal effort — leaving you more time to soak up the sunshine and celebrate summer.

Drunk Watermelon

This crowd-pleasing favorite doubles as a centerpiece. A whole water-

Directions

Slice a small portion off the bottom of the watermelon so it sits flat. Cut a large opening in the top and scoop out most of the fruit, reserving several cups. Blend the watermelon flesh until smooth, then strain if desired.

Return the juice to the watermelon shell and stir in the vodka, triple sec and lime juice. Chill for several hours. Just before serving, add

lemon-lime soda, ice and fresh mint. ladle into cups or install a beverage spigot for easy pouring. Serves 10-12.

Beach

Bucket Strawberry Margarita

Fresh strawberries give this oversized margarita vibrant color and sweet summer flavor.

melon becomes both the mixing bowl and the serving vessel.

Ingredients

● 1 large seedless watermelon

● 2 cups vodka

● ½ cup triple sec

● ¼ cup fresh lime juice

● 1 liter lemon-lime soda, chilled

● Fresh mint

● Ice

Photo credit: thehintofrosemary.com

Ingredients

● 3 cups tequila

● 1½ cups triple sec

● 1 cup fresh lime juice

● 4 cups frozen strawberries

● ½ cup simple syrup

● 4 cups ice

● lime slices and strawberries for garnish

● Coarse salt for rims (optional)

Directions

Blend strawberries, lime juice and simple syrup until smooth. Pour into a large beverage bucket or dispenser. Stir in tequila and triple sec before adding ice. Garnish with sliced strawberries and lime wheels.

Ingredients

● 2 cups blueberry vodka

● 1 cup regular vodka

● 8 cups lemonade

● 2 cups blueberry syrup or blueberry puree

● 2 cups fresh blueberries

● lemon slices

● Fresh basil or mint

● Ice

Directions

Combine blueberry vodka, vodka, lemonade and blueberry syrup in a large dispenser. Stir thoroughly before adding blueberries, lemon slices and herbs. Refrigerate until cold. Serve over plenty of ice.

Serves 12-14.

For a frozen version, blend individual servings with additional ice. Serves 12-15.

Mega Moscow Mule

The classic cocktail becomes party-sized with spicy ginger beer and plenty of citrus.

Ingredients

● 2½ cups vodka

● 8 cups ginger beer

● 1 cup fresh lime juice

● lime wheels

● Fresh mint

● Ice

Directions

Fill a large insulated bucket or beverage dispenser halfway with ice. Pour in vodka, lime juice and ginger beer. Stir gently to preserve carbonation. Add lime slices and handfuls of mint.

Serve in copper mugs or plastic cups filled with fresh ice. Serves 12.

Hard Blueberry Lemonade

Sweet blueberries and tart lemonade make this refreshing cocktail ideal for hot afternoons.

Beach Bucket Tips

A few tricks can help keep your drinks tasting fresh all day.

● Freeze fruit instead of using regular ice cubes to prevent watered-down cocktails.

● Chill all ingredients before mixing.

● Make simple syrup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

● Pack a separate cooler filled with extra ice.

● label cocktails if serving multiple varieties.

● Offer bottled water, sparkling water and nonalcoholic drinks alongside the cocktails.

Remember to enjoy responsibly, stay hydrated between drinks and never bring alcohol onto beaches where it's prohibited.

With fresh fruit, bright flavors and recipes big enough for the whole crew, these beach bucket cocktails are a festive way to toast another unforgettable summer at the Jersey Shore.

Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

Drunk Watermelon is a crowd-pleasing favorite that doubles as a centerpiece.

The legendary Louis Prima in Atlantic City

Bruce Klauber

Had he lived, the ground-breaking trumpeter/vocalist/bandleader louis Prima might have been one of the most popular and highest paid attractions ever booked by an Atlantic City hotel/ casino.

Though he died on Aug. 24, 1978 at the age of 67, just about three months to the day after Resorts International opened as the city’s first casino, Prima had a long and rich history in this region. He was the only performer ever to perform at the Steel Pier and the 500 Club. He was beloved here, and though we’ve not yet seen an entertainment “residency” in Atlantic City ala Celine Dion and others in l as Vegas, Prima would have, quite possibly, been the first.

There were three, distinct musical periods that comprised Prima’s musical career, and each of them was suc-

cessful. New Orleans born and bred, Prima began as leader and trumpeter of a Dixieland-oriented small band, first in New Orleans, and in the mid1930s, on New york City’s famed 52nd Street. He made such a splash with that group, which featured the leader’s swinging trumpet and infectious, jive-focused vocals, that his group made it into three, “B” movies by the end of the decade.

Seeing that big swing bands were the trend by the late 1930s — though

he received nearly a quarter million dollars for a seven week stand at

Casa Mañana in New york City with his small group — Prima formed his first large ensemble. His focus on Italian novelties such as “Felicia No Capicia” and “Please No Squeeza Da Banana,” helped make the band one of the top-grossing musical units on the circuit. He made his first appearance around 1943 at the Steel Pier with that band. In August of 1945, he was again playing in the Pier’s Marine

Ballroom when the news came over the radio that World War II was over.

To celebrate, Prima played “When the Saints Go Marching In,” and marched the band off the pier and right into the ocean.

In 1947, he met his future wife — wife number four — and eventual singing partner, Keely Smith, who came to the Pier to hear Prima. She auditioned for the band a year later,

↘Continued on 92

married Prima in 1953 and stayed with him personally and professionally until their 1961 divorce.

By the late 1940s he was struggling, along with many of the other big name bandleaders. Still, his popularity in Atlantic City was substantial. Struggle or no struggle, the Pier’s George Hamid booked louis and Keely in the summer of 1951 with a big band that Prima probably put together expressly for the engagement. He was a gigantic hit, though that proved to be his last appearance at the Steel Pier.

The next few years were difficult for louis and Keely. Big bands were

out of vogue, his patented, Italian novelties were beginning to be viewed as passé, and his spendthrift ways –gambling and alimony to ex-wives had drained him dry — caught up with him. He could have lived well off the royalties for a song he composed — “Sing, Sing, Sing,” which became the swing era’s anthem — but as his widow, Gia Maione told me, he sold the rights to the song sometime in the 1940s for a couple of hundred dollars.

Hard up for work and cash by 1954, Prima approached Bill Miller, entertainment director of las Vegas’ Sahara Hotel/Casino, and asked about the possibility of work. year later, Keely admitted that they really needed a

break then, saying, “We were working some of the most God-awful places imaginable.” Though Prima had previously headlined at the Sahara, times had changed, and Miller put them in the Sahara’s lounge somewhere around Christmas of 1954. Prima formed a small group just for that job. “It was good enough to get us extended and the musicians were good, but it wasn’t really swinging yet,” Keely remembered.

That’s where Sam Butera entered the picture. The New Orleans-based tenor saxophonist, who was tearing it up with his house-rocking combi -

nation of jazz and rhythm and blues at various New Orleans nightspots, came to the attention of Prima’s brother, leon. Both louis and leon thought that Butera would be just the musical “shot in the arm” that louis needed to make some kind of mark in las Vegas.

Prima summoned Butera to Vegas, supposedly around Christmas Day, and made him all kinds of promises in order to induce him to come to Vegas. Not only did he come to Vegas, but Butera musically revamped virtually every song louis and Keely were performing in their act.

Louis and Keely performed at Steel Pier in the summer of 1951.

With a driving shuffle rhythm that wouldn’t quit, an on-stage stone-faced role for Smith, and an irresistible combination of rhythm and blues, jazz, and swinging Italian jive; the new combination took off and shortly became not only the hottest attraction in l as Vegas and a group that virtually defined what a lounge act was, but the ensemble be came among the hottest acts in the country. Billed as “ louis Prima and Keely Smith with Sam Butera and the Witnesses,” the group appeared on television, in movies, sold millions of records, and appeared at the nation’s top nightspots.

One of their regular stops was Atlantic City’s 500 Club. Those who were around at the time said that Pri ma was the only act to rival Sinatra at the 500 Club in terms of attendance.

Sadly, it didn’t last. Though Prima continued with vocalist Gia Maione after he split with Keely Smith in 1961 — Gia became wife number five in 1963 — it just wasn’t the same. In 1975, Prima had brain surgery and

Louis Prima, Gia Malone and Frank Sinatra

'1676 Project' tells how South Jersey shaped America

By Seth Grossman

We are now celebrating the 250th year of American independence. However, our exceptional nation was created long before July 4, 1776. Our “revolution” was fought to preserve what Americans already had — a nation of freedom and “boundless opportunities.” Much of that nation was created right here in South Jersey. I explain that in a book I just published called "1676 Project: How New Jersey Shaped America."

New Jersey became an English colony in 1664 when King Charles II seized it from the Dutch. He gave it to two of his most loyal supporters. He named it after Jersey, his famous island stronghold during the English Civil Wars.

However, New Jersey failed to make money for its owners. In 1674, one of them sold his half interest to a group of Quakers led by William Penn. At the time, Quakers were severely persecuted in England and much of America. Thousands were in jail. Others had their homes and businesses seized. Four Quakers in Massachusetts were arrested and executed for openly preaching their beliefs between 1659 and 1660.

They established frugal governments that required almost no taxes. yet they kept people safe and protected their property. They quickly and peacefully settled disputes. They allowed people to keep most of what they earned. They offered “boundless opportunities” for almost everyone to succeed.

By 1776, Greater Philadelphia was the largest, wealthiest, and most successful city in British North America. At that time, boats and ships on rivers were faster, cheaper, and more efficient than most land transportation. Burlington to Salem in South Jersey were as much a part of Greater Philadelphia as Germantown.

However, those Quakers wanted their land in America to be more than a safe refuge for themselves. In 1676, they divided New Jersey in half. They also made what is now South Jersey their a separate “commonwealth” with its own charter or constitution. There, they would put their ideas into practice. Their goal was to create a better world for all people. Five years later, Penn persuaded King Charles to give him additional land across the Delaware River. There he built Philadelphia. Their “Holy Experiment” was a spectacular success.

They were guided by the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” They consulted with Enlightenment philosophers John locke and Algernon Sidney. They studied and avoided mistakes previously made in Virginia, Plymouth, and Massachusetts Bay.

They paid Native Americans for the land they needed. They quickly freed African slaves. They set up schools to educate both boys and girls.

I just published a book. The book, titled "1676 Project: How New Jersey Shaped America," is more than a complete history of New Jersey. It explains what brought “exceptional” greatness to all of the united States. It is fully illustrated, clearly written, and easy to read. yet it contains many passages from original sources to promote deeper understanding. Its comprehensive endnotes encourage fact-checking and further research. "1676 Project" can be purchased on Amazon for $24.95. It can also be purchased directly for $20 from libertyandProsperity.com and at many locations in and around Atlantic City and Ocean City. For more information, contact info@libertyandprosperity.com or call 609-927-7333

Seth Grossman is a retired attorney and adjunct college professor of history. He is also the founder and executive director of Liberty and Prosperity 1776, Inc.

Light of Asia

Most fans of the Jersey Shore know of lucy the elephant in Margate but very few know that she once had a cousin located a bit further south in Cape May.

Known as the " light of Asia" or Old Dumbo by the locals, she was designed by Philadelphia architect N.H. Culver and was built for land speculator Theodore M. Reger. The men were no doubt influenced by James V. l afferty, designer of lucy in 1881 and “Elephantine Colossus” built in Coney Island in 1882.

Completed in 1884, its owner ran ads in the local paper soliciting tenants for his colossal pachyderm. “Parties wishing rooms in the elephant to sell soda water, fancy articles, advertising, etc. and the privilege for bathhouses, ice cream garden and dairy. Apply on the premises or to T.M. Reger, 508 Walnut Street, Philadelphia."

The elephant stood 40 feet, 10 inches tall and a "howdah," or covered pavilion, rested upon the giant's back.

The hind legs were equipped with spiral stairs that provided access to the interior of the elephant. It was estimated that over one million pieces of wood were required to construct the elephant. It was covered with a skin consisting of over 13,000 square feet of tin.Two sets of stairs on either side of the interior led to the howdah, where an observatory offered tourists a scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean for ten cents.

She was located in what later became South Cape May - now the empty stretch of beach between Second Avenue and Cape May Point that today borders the nature preserve.

Although the electric railroad ran along the beach from east Cape May to Cape May Point, most people preferred to skip the paid attraction and enjoy the view from the Cape May Point lighthouse for free. Some lots were sold but in the end the light of Asia was abandoned and after years of vandalism the city sent her to the elephant graveyard.

Hermit crabs: Nature’s mobile homes

How to properly care for these crustacean companions

By Steffen Klenk

While visiting the Jersey Shore, many beachgoers look to bring home a souvenir to remember the experience. Hermit crabs, commonly sold as pets along the boardwalk, are a popular option — but they require more care than many people realize.

Before purchasing one of these small creatures, it’s important to understand their needs and behaviors. Wild hermit crabs vary greatly in size, from a few millimeters to nearly two feet in length, and can live up to 30 years in their natural habitat. In captivity, however, they typically survive six months to a year, even under optimal conditions.

A defining trait of hermit crabs is their shell, which protects their soft bodies and helps retain moisture. u nlike other animals, hermit crabs do not grow their own shells — they borrow empty ones from snails and other creatures. As they grow, hermit

crabs molt, shedding their exoskeleton and seeking a larger shell, often burying themselves in sand for one to two months during this vulnerable process.

To ensure a healthy environment at home, start with a 10-gallon tank with a secure screen lid and deep sand substrate. Hermit crabs are social animals and do best in groups, so consider keeping at least two. Provide climbing areas, hiding spac-

es, and a variety of natural shells for them to choose from.

Maintaining proper temperature

and humidity is essential. use fluorescent or dome lighting and a thermometer to keep conditions around 70 degrees with 75% relative humidity.

Hydration is critical. Hermit crabs need both fresh and saltwater sources — never use tap water, which can be toxic. Instead, use distilled water and marine salt mix available from pet or aquatic supply stores.

As for food, hermit crabs enjoy a diet of fresh fruits like apples and pears, baby food, and calcium-rich supplements. Avoid processed or artificial foods, as they can be harmful.

Painted shells, though colorful, can chip and pose a danger if ingested. Stick to natural shells to ensure a safe environment.

With the right setup and regular care, hermit crabs can make fascinating and long-living pets.

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Photo credit: Ocean City NJ Facebook

Photo credit: Ocean Treasures OCNJ Facebook

Cute card revoked: When other dogs no longer see your puppy as an innocent baby

By Heidi Clayton

My puppy Bento Box has turned five months old, is in the throes of teething, and has lost his cute card with the other dogs in the house. Bringing a puppy into a multi-dog or one-dog household is going to require management. It is absolutely normal for the older dog to develop resentments and grudges against a puppy as they age and begin to test boundaries and patience. Here are some tips on how to maintain the peace and where I think most people go a bit off course.

By the nature of their age and cuteness levels, it is natural that your puppy will be commanding the lion's share of your attention when you bring them home. This is a disruption to the established dog's routine, not just with daily life but also with having to share you. First of all, never assume that your older dog will naturally like the puppy.

Kabuki, one of my dogs, despised Bento Box for several days once he was the only puppy left here. Not only

was she jealous, but her routine was disrupted by his arrival. So I always make sure that I try as best I can to maintain the older dogs’ routines. Kabuki and I have played fetch every morning since she was a baby, and we still do. Bento is not a part of this game either. It is just Kabuki and I, with no bothersome puppy butting in.

I also did not let Kabuki loose with the puppy, hoping they would work out their differences amongst themselves. I kept their interactions short and sweet and was very rewarding with treats when Kabuki was appropriate with the puppy. Conversely, if the puppy was being inappropriate, I removed him from the situation so that she was not forced to take action. If an older, established dog in the house shows signs of true aggression towards the puppy, you must listen to them. A dog fight will ruin your chances of changing the relationship forever. Try instead walking them both side by side and rewarding positive interactions. I never leash one dog and allow another to be free. Both are on leashes.

If my dogs could speak, I would bet each of them would tell you that they believe they are my favorite because I truly do try to represent all of their individual interests. Each dog gets their own walk and their own time with me playing. While I am glad that my dogs can still all be loose together, I feel that my two older dogs need a break from the young ones, so I will put them away in their kennels to give everyone a break. I also want to ensure that Bento does not need the other dogs around him all of the time to function, so there is a “crate and rotate” schedule I keep daily.

l astly, your older dog (or dogs)

follow them about and learn some good things. They most often, however, learn the bad things a lot quicker. For example, Kabuki’s hatred of all brooms is now being mirrored by her little brother. I try to remember that when I need to actually sweep, one of them needs to be away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, reward-based dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions

Margate Beachstock brings day-long party to the sand

By Steffen Klenk

It was a full day of surf, sand, and smiles as the Margate Business Association held its annual Beachstock event along Huntington Avenue Beach, behind

Margate library, on Sunday, June 28. Thousands enjoyed a plethora of activities, including a full day of live music, food vendors, entertainment, surfing, cornhole, volleyball tournaments, and more. Even the Phillie Phanatic himself made a special visit,

greeting troves of beachgoers. The festivities also included the 5th Annual Pineapple Classic Surf Tournament, hosted by Jetty Apparel and local professional surfer Ben Gravy. Dozens of area surfers took to the ocean for a day of gnarly waves, all to benefit the Jetty Rock Foundation. Since its inception, the organization has raised more than $2 million to protect our local coastal oceans and waterways while supporting all who build their lives around them.

Photos by Steffen Klenk

Keeping pets safe in the summer

By Absecon Veterinary Hospital

There is nothing quite like summer at the shore. The longer days, warm evenings, backyard cookouts, beach trips, and holiday celebrations are part of what makes this season so special. For many families, pets are right there with us, riding along for weekend plans, joining us outside, or settling in beside us after a day in the sun.

But summer can also be unpredictable for pets. The same things people enjoy, including fireworks, heat, travel, swimming, and extra time outdoors, can create real risks for dogs and cats. With a little planning, owners can help their animals stay safer and more comfortable all season long.

One of the biggest concerns this time of year is fireworks. In shore towns, fireworks are rarely limited to the Fourth of July. They may go off throughout the week, often unexpectedly and at different times of night. For pets with noise anxiety, this can be frightening.

Some pets tremble, pant, pace, hide, bark, cry, or try to escape. If your pet has a history of fireworks anxiety or noise phobias, talk to your veterinarian early. There are several medications

that may help, and your veterinarian can discuss what is safest for your family.

Comfort measures can also help. Some pets benefit from pheromone products, white noise, closed curtains, or a quiet interior room away from windows. If your pet has a favorite hiding place, make it easy to access and as comfortable as possible with bedding, water, and familiar items.

Identification is essential, especially during fireworks. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with current ID tags, and confirm their microchip information is up to date. During peak fireworks times, keep pets indoors when possible. When dogs do need to go outside, keep them leashed, even in the yard, and double-check gates and doors.

Heat is another major summer concern! Dogs can overheat quickly, especially during the hottest part of the day. Plan walks for early morning or later in the evening, bring water, offer frequent breaks, and choose shady routes whenever possible. Hot pavement can also burn paw pads. If the ground feels too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your pet’s feet.

It is also important to consider your pet’s fitness level. A dog who has not been exercising regularly may not be ready for a long run just because the

weather is nice. Start with short walks and build up slowly. Brachycephalic, or “smushy-faced,” breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers are especially vulnerable in the heat because they have a harder time cooling themselves. For these pets, short, gentle outings during cooler parts of the day are usually safest.

Travel deserves some planning, too. Some pets are wonderful travelers, while others are much happier staying home with a trusted caretaker. Before bringing your pet on vacation, consider what is truly best for them. If your pet is traveling with you, bring a printed or electronic copy of their medical records, vaccine history, and medication list. This can be extremely helpful if an unexpected veterinary visit is needed while you are away. It is also beneficial to look up nearby emergency vets before your trip. Hopefully you won’t need one but knowing where to go ahead of time is much better than searching during a stressful moment.

Summer skin and ear problems are also common, especially for pets spending time outside or in the water. Allergies can show up as itchy skin, red paws, licking, scratching, ear infections, hot spots, or irritated patches. There

are many treatment options available, including newer anti-itch medications that may be safer and more effective for some pets. Addressing symptoms early can help prevent more serious infections.

Swimming can also contribute to ear and skin issues. After a swim in the pool, ocean, bay, or lake, rinse your dog with clean water and dry them well. A good-quality veterinary ear cleaner may help reduce the risk of ear infections. If your pet is prone to ear problems, ask your veterinarian whether a medicated ear cleaner could be beneficial.

Flea and tick prevention should also stay consistent. Fleas and ticks are common at the shore, especially in grassy, sandy, and wooded areas. And if your pet likes to swim, topical products can become less effective with frequent bathing or harsh soaps, so talk to your pet about oral preventative options!

Summer should be full of happy memories, not preventable emergencies. Before the fireworks begin, the heat climbs, or the travel bags are packed, take time to plan ahead!

For your summer pet care questions or appointments, contact Absecon Veterinary Hospital at 609-646-7013, visit abseconvet.com, or stop by 195 S. New Rd, Absecon, NJ 08201

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By T. Eric Reich

WMoney moves in your 50s

elcome to your 50s! you’re officially halfway to age 100, and you’re starting to feel like it too! I always say that when everything starts to hurt, it’s a good time to reassess your finances. This week, let’s review some of the more important considerations for those of us in our 50s.

your 50s is a unique time for investors. For starters, you’re probably making more money than you ever have. While this is a good thing, you want to be wary of lifestyle creep. This is where your expenses start to rise with your income, and before you know it, you don’t seem to have any more disposable income now than you did when you made significantly less money. you may be experiencing a lot of family changes, such as kids graduating from college or getting married. These events may cause your expenses to fluctuate wildly for a few years. your 50s is a time to really get a handle on your expenses so that you can maximize retirement savings, because before you know it, you’ll be facing retirement whether you are ready or not.

1. Drop the debt

Start to get rid of any debt that doesn’t serve you, meaning anything that isn’t deductible or on assets rising in value. Think credit cards, personal loans, etc. Start with the debt with the interest rate first and throw all extra money toward that debt until it’s gone. Repeat with the next highest debt. The less debt you have in retirement, the less income you’ll need to cover expenses, and that can translate to earlier retirement.

2. Max out your retirement contributions

Age 50 is a magic number for retirement savers because people aged 50 and over can now make additional contributions to their retirement plans. This applies to almost every type of retirement account. Those extra contributions can go a long way toward beefing up your retirement accounts.

3. Start to envision what you might like retirement to look like Retirement for someone in their

50s can be 5-15 years away. That isn’t as long as you think. Start thinking about what it looks like in your mind. Where do you want to live? Do you want to travel? Play golf five days a week? How much you need to have saved for retirement is extremely dependent on how you intend to spend your time. Staying home and going out to dinner one night a week costs a lot less than taking 3-5 big trips a year and buying a second home. Have an idea of what you imagine retirement will be like for yourself, and if applicable, discuss it with your spouse. Start to align your ideal retirement dreams together, and start to build your plan based on that.

4. Review your portfolio

If you are 15 years away from retirement, I’m not too concerned about having more risk in the portfolio. If you are closer to five years out, then it is time to begin to design your portfolio to match your time horizon. As you get closer to retirement, you may consider removing several years’ worth of expenses from the stock market in order to minimize

the potential effect of sequence-of-return risk. This is the risk of the markets being down the year you retire, or soon after. By creating this buffer, you give the rest of your investments time to recover so that you aren’t withdrawing money from a falling portfolio, thereby creating the effect of negative compound interest.

your 50s can be an exciting time in your life, filled with a lot of change. like the rest of your life up to this point, it will probably go by much faster than you expected. By following these steps, you can hopefully be better prepared heading into your future retirement.

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

Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC.

A Senior’s Observations, Opinions

and Rantings

The Big (or Little) American Road Trip

By Charles P. Eberson Senior Moments

Traditionally, summer is the time for families to take to the road, be it a long weekend or a more ambitious, extended journey.

It is prudent, for a more extensive journey, to make some preparations for your safety and comfort. Although I don’t claim to be an expert in this field, I do have considerable experience based on my traveling along the east coast to Maine and numerous trips to Florida. We also drove west to Colorado, Wyoming and Montana three times with the longest journey covering 9,000 miles over almost three months. Along the way we have learned a few things.

First, and most importantly, give your vehicle a thorough going over. I know we all have access to a GPS but a road atlas is essential as a backup. On one trip through Arkansas, the GPS directed us along a secluded one lane dirt road through some “holler” where Confederate flags were boldly displayed. With our vehicle adorned with bikes and beach chairs on the

back and our Jersey plates, if we broke down, I didn’t think we’d be invited to share a mason jar of moonshine with them on the sofa in the yard, while admiring the tree growing out of the hood of a rusting pickup truck. After consulting our atlas, we see where we could have rerouted to avoid that “road.”

Other items we included were a tire repair kit including plugs and three cans of Fix-a Flat and an air compressor. A cooler with snacks and water is handy as well as a variety of extra batteries, a battery brick, tools, flashlight, duct tape, rags or paper towels, fire extinguisher, Tylenol, Motrin, Tums, toothpicks, your meds if you take them. Have a list of important phone numbers printed out, just in case. A good knife can come in useful. you never know when you might have to cut up an apple. Bring along some cash; the amount determined by the length of your journey.

The safety of you and your family is paramount. unfortunately, random acts of violence are not unheard of, so I urge you to consider taking measures at whatever levels you

are comfortable with to ensure you are protected. We also travel with an extensive first aid backpack with everything from band aids to tourniquets. you may find, as I have, that the contents may be used to aid other people who are injured, not just for yourselves. Our first aid kit is a work in progress as gaps in the inventory present themselves, which they inevitably do. Recently, we were at Costco when my situational aware -

ness temporarily went offline causing my forearm to slam into an immovable object. I watched with curiosity and concern as a lump immediately started rising from my arm. I grabbed a handful of napkins from the concession stand, filled them with ice and pressed it against my arm as my wife looked on with an inquisitive expression and the inevitable eyeroll. I held the makeshift icepack on until I got to the car and tied it on with a kerchief from my first aid kit. The next day, I bought a box of Instant Cold Packs and an Ace bandage to add to our kit.

Finally, a playlist of your favorite songs, podcasts and even books on tape can make the long miles pass by more quickly. A little preparation can go a long way, so get out there and safely enjoy your adventures on the great American roads. 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

Grace Wristbridge

September 20, 1958 - June 27, 2026

Grace Mary Wristbridge (Gay or Gracie) passed into eternal salvation on June 27, 2026 at age 67. Gracie was born and raised in Pennsauken. She will undoubtedly be placed on the express train into heaven, having suffered from schizophrenia her entire adult life. In spite of her mental disability she taught herself to play every song in Bob Dylan’s play list on both guitar and piano. She was extremely intelligent, but as we Irish would say, “just a little touched”. Gay was the fifth of eight children born to Jack and Mary Wristbridge (nee Singer). Gracie is predeceased by her parents, brother Frank and sister Helen. Surviving family members include her brothers John (Lorraine),Donald (Patricia),Matthew (Monica)and Peter (Sharon) and her sister Mary Buhrer (Dean). Also many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. All of her siblings and parents have spent 50 years spoiling Gracie to the point that anyone’s appearance for a visit would immediately prompt her to request a soda or some candy, or maybe a few bucks.

A special thank you to Our Ladies Residence staff for allowing our sister to live as full a life as possible given her limitations. You have been a blessing to our family.

A viewing will be held on Friday July 3, 2026 at St Vincent De Paul Church, 5021 Harding Highway, Mays Landing from 10-11 am with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am.

The entombment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Grace's name to "Our Lady's Center for Rehabilitation & Healthcare" 1100 Clematis Ave Pleasantville, NJ 08232

Antoinette T "Ann" Isgro

Antoinette “Ann” Terese Isgro, 66, passed away peacefully on the morning of June 25, 2026, surrounded by her immediate family at her bedside. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, strength, kindness, and unwavering love.

Ann was the beloved wife of Ernest Isgro with whom she shared a lifetime of cherished memories and enduring love. Ann and Ernie's love story began during their senior year of college when Ann would visit Ernie at Lycoming College. From the moment they met they knew they had found something special. Two years later they were married and ready to begin a lifetime together. They moved from Pennsylvania to start their next adventure in New Jersey, where they created a loving home and were blessed with four wonderful children.

Ann was an incredibly devoted mother to her four childrenErnest, Anthony, Michael, and Maria - who were the pride and joy of her life. She was always there for them, never missing a milestone, celebration, or moment that mattered. Her boundless love and positive encouragement shaped their lives and she was their biggest supporter in everything they did. She was also a loving mother-in-law to Meghan and Leonela, whom she welcomed into her family with warmth. Ann found her greatest happiness in being a Mommom. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren - Mia, Peighton, Everett, Gianna, and Cooper (“grand pup”). Their laughter, smiles, hugs, and love gave her great fulfillment and happiness.

Known for her caring heart and generous spirit, Ann touched the lives of many family members, friends, and neighbors. Her love for her family was clearly evident in everything she did and her memory will continue to live on through the countless lives that she influenced with her endless warmth and grace. She was actively involved in her community where she taught CCD religious classes for over a decade. Outside of that instruction, she also cared for (and served) many children in two school districts as a kitchen manager for more than thirty years. She loved to cook! Being able to feed family and friends at home, as well as all the students at her job, truly gave her the ultimate happiness, satisfaction, and pride.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family takes great comfort in all the memories they shared and the love she leaves behind. Her legacy of family, love and compassion will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Ann is predeceased by her parents Mary and Charles Dykes, her sister Mary Bernadette Ott (Tom), and her brother James.

She is survived by her husband Ernest, son Ernie, son Anthony (Leonela) grandchildren Mia and Gianna, son Michael (Meghan) grandchildren Peighton and Everett, daughter Maria. Also, her brothers Charles (Tina), Mark (Donna), and Kevin, in addition to her sisters Clare Hilbig and Suzanne Dykes, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends who have become family.

Antoinette Terese Isgro will forever be remembered and dearly missed. May her memory be a blessing.

If you would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Visit StJude.org/donate

Services to honor Antoinette’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 1st at St Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish: 591 New Jersey Ave, Absecon, NJ 08201. Her family will be receiving condolences from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., with a mass to follow at 11 a.m.

Zachary Arrom

Zachary David Arrom of Williamstown, NJ passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026 at Jefferson Hospital, after a brief illness. He was 51 years old. Born on April 10, 1975 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Zack was the beloved son of Linda (Harry) Powers, Brother to Jason (Allison) and Uncle to Hunter & McKenzi Arrom. He was Dad to the greatest joy in his life, his daughter, Sierra Arrom. He loved her very much and was so proud to be her father.

Zack is survived by his Nana, Olive Leeds. His Godmother, Aunt Jennifer (Herb) Rose. Sierra's mother, Lory (Tom) Klotz. Stepbrothers, Justin (Heather) Butler, Ehren (Heather) Butler and their children. Along with Aunts, Connie Whitley, Trish Arrom, Diane Leeds, Uncle Steve Wescoat, cousins and friends.

Zack was raised in Galloway Township, NJ. He graduated from Absegami High School. He had lifelong memories and close friendships from his childhood that he remembered fondly. As a young man, Zack was employed at two Atlantic City casinos as a dealer and floor person. He went on to own and operate a landscaping business. He also had a business at Historic Smithville, NJ.

Zack loved to go hunting and fishing with his father and brother in his earlier years. He raced powerboats and had many special memories with his brother & crew. Zack enjoyed fishing, watching the Phillies & Eagles games and working in his garden. Zack was a kind, funny and loving man. He was generous in helping others whenever he was able. Zack was a wonderful friend to many, and we will miss his smile and laughter.

Zack was predeceased by his father, Albert Arrom III and Paternal Grandparents, Albert Arrom Jr & Ann Hampton. His Maternal Grandparents, David & Mary Leeds, Aunt Liz (Leeds) Wescoat and Uncle David Leeds. His Aunt Margie (Arrom) Wolf, Uncle Bob Arrom and Cousin Tad DiLorenzo.

Zack faced many health conditions for a long time. He will be remembered for his strength, determination and grit. He approached each challenge knowing there was a reason for it, until the fight was over for him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His life was gone far too soon, and his passing will leave a void in our family that will be impossible to fill. He belonged to us and he will always be close to our hearts. We will take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with loved ones and is resting in peace in the presence of the Lord.

We would like to say a special thank you to Ava. Our family cannot thank her enough for her kindness and support to Zack. Thank you to Dr. Depace and Joe for their care and friendship to Zack over the years. As well as Dr. Spitz and his team at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Voorhees, NJ.

A Memorial service will be held on September 19, 2026, at Wimberg Funeral Home, 211 E. Great Creek Rd, Galloway, NJ, with visitation from 10am-11am, with a service at 11am.

Interment will be held at a later date at Holy Cross Cemetery, Mays Landing, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made if one wishes in his name, to the American Cancer Society.

By Ursula Duffy

Rising sign horoscopes for July 2 – 8

Astrology, by definition, is the study of time and light. It is an art that has been utilized by humanity for millennia to better understand how the cosmos affects life on Earth. Personal horoscopes, also known as birth charts or natal charts, are snapshots of the sun, moon, planets and more at the date, time and location of one’s birth. This snapshot holds many keys and secrets to one’s characteristics and can be considered one’s personal map, guidebook and lesson plan for life! Everything in the cosmos continues moving beyond the moment of your birth and influences your life in various cyclical ways. These cycles influence your life and even possibly your attitude towards life, according to the rhythm of the sun, moon, planets, stars, and seasons at specific ages. The weekly horoscopes provided here in Shore local Newsmagazine are written based on your rising sign. These horoscopes are intended to provide guidance and insight based on these rhythms and the cosmic connection to your lived experience. So much is written in the stars! It is my intention that these entries will assist you in deciphering what is encoded within you.

Aries: A gust of new thoughts, ideas, and interests may pique your curiosity. Keep your favorite method of documentation handy. Social gatherings and networking are good outlets.

Weekly Horoscopes

to open. Be on the lookout for new work opportunities, especially those that encourage more authenticity.

Gemini: Nervous system regulation and extra caution are good practices. If you’re feeling more scattered than usual, try a new discipline, perhaps one that incorporates spirituality.

Cancer: Heightened sensitivity may be best soothed by solitude. Quiet the noise around you so that you can tune more deeply into your inner voice. Dreams may have significant insight.

way to navigate any disagreements.

Leo: Pay close attention to your social interactions in person and online. An unexpected connection can make or break your intentions. Be mindful of your words and projections.

Virgo: The ongoing revolution in your professional life receives more fuel. A sudden shift or change has great potential to also transform your daily life. Flexibility is key; resistance is futile.

Libra: Open your mind! Sparks of insight and inspiration, expanding your perspective and reigniting your inner adventurer, arrive. Remember it’s about the journey, not the destination.

Scorpio: Something may instigate a revelation of secrets or information previously hidden. This may be about you, family, or close partners. Be keen when “the emperor has no clothes.”

Capricorn: Be gentle with your vessel and take things slower than usual. Discharge any extra energy with intentional movement and breath. Feeling well builds and instills confidence.

Aquarius: It’s electric! your capacity for creation gets a boost, while also inspiring a new sense of personal power. Harness it wisely, especially that which seems out of the ordinary.

Pisces: There’s potential for some surprising news or information related to your home, family, or roots. Protect your privacy and tune into the deeper meaning of what surfaces.

Weekly astrology summary:

of thoughts, words, ideas, and staying curious about information. Expect the unexpected personally and collectively, with the potential for surprising, shocking, or strange news or new ideas. This meetup is especially intriguing with its connection to potent Pluto in the early degrees of Aquarius. These are powerhouse planets signaling each other in ways that we haven’t experienced in decades and a first for anyone with this particular connection to Pluto’s influence. Sharpen your inner fact-checker and pay attention to how your body feels while information is being received. Gemini can be a trickster, and its planetary ruler, Mercury, is currently retrograde.

Two cosmic events will follow, which will offer opportunities for structure, responsibility in handling whatever surfaces, and retracing steps. The biennial square of the sun to stern Saturn will occur on July 6, and numinous Neptune will begin its backward journey again through the early degrees of Aries on July 7. This week’s horoscopes are focused on the Mars/ u ranus conjunction; see the above horoscope for your rising sign for more specific insight and guidance. If you’re unsure what your rising sign is, you can email me at ursaalchemy@gmail.com, learn more in my tutorial video on my ursa Alchemy youTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com.

Taurus: There’s great potential for a surprising new income channel

Sagittarius: Sparks fly in your relationships. How the sparks are handled is important. Effective, tactful communication would be the best

The holiday fireworks shows won’t be the only explosions in the skies this week! Sparks will also fly in the cosmos on July 4 as masterful Mars and unusual u ranus conjoin in the early degrees of Gemini. The last time Mars and uranus united was in mid-July 2024 in the zodiac sign Taurus. Saturday’s meetup will be a much different vibe and one that we haven’t experienced in over 80 years! Gemini is all about communication, the flow

Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, Certified Aromatherapist and founder of Ursa Alchemy. www. ursaalchemy.com or ursaalchemy@ gmail.com.

Hang Ten, South Jersey: A beginner’s guide to learning how to surf

By Sarah Fertsch

There’s something magical about watching a surfer glide across a wave at sunrise. It looks effortless—almost like dancing on water. And while surfing takes patience and practice, anyone can learn to surf at any age.

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a family activity, or simply want to cross “learn to surf” off your bucket list, there’s never been a better time to paddle out.

Why try surfing?

Surfing is more than a sport. It’s a full-body workout that improves balance, strength and endurance while offering plenty of mental health benefits. Studies have shown that spending time in the ocean can reduce stress and improve mood, and many surfers describe the experience as meditative. Plus, unlike many sports, surfing can be enjoyed at almost any age. South Jersey surf schools regularly teach students ranging from young children to retirees.

What you'll need you don't need thousands of dollars in gear to get started. Most surf schools provide equipment for beginners, but eventually you may want your own setup.

Beginner essentials include:

● A soft-top longboard, typically 8 to 10 feet long, with a leash

● Wetsuit or rash guard shirt

● Sunscreen

● Water bottle and towel

Soft-top boards are recommended because they're more stable and forgiving than hard boards, making them ideal for first-timers. Many local surf shops rent equipment by the hour, day or week.

Keep safety first

The ocean is beautiful, but it deserves respect. Before you even think about standing on a board, learn a few basic safety rules. Most importantly, new surfers must be functional swimmers. you don't need to be an Olympic swimmer, but you should feel comfortable in the water and be able to tread water and swim back to shore if necessary.

Secondly, take some time to learn about rip currents. If you get caught in a rip current, don't panic or swim directly toward shore. Instead, swim parallel to the beach until you're free of the current. Bring a friend or take lessons with an instructor, especially when you're just starting out.

The surf conditions matter. Never try to surf in stormy weather, and check online for currents, winds, wave size, and wave types. Beginners should look for small waves, ideally between one and three feet. Avoid surfing during storms, strong winds or hurricane swells.

Respect surf etiquette, and be considerate of everyone else in the

water. Don't drop in on someone else's wave, keep your board under control and always be aware of other surfers around you.

How to catch your first wave

Step 1: Practice on the Sand

Before entering the water, practice your "pop-up"—the movement from lying on the board to standing. lie on your stomach, place your hands under your shoulders and quickly push yourself to your feet in one fluid motion. It’s similar to a push-up, or if you are familiar with yoga, a flow from upward-facing dog to mountain pose.

Balance is key, so make sure to evenly press weight across all four corners of your board. As a beginner, don’t feel too much pressure to stand on your first try. Initially, just focus on the process of catching waves.

Step 2: Start in Whitewater

When you enter the water, make sure that your leash is secure around your ankle. Carry your board into shallow water, which should look foamy and rippled. Beginners should practice in broken waves, known as whitewater, instead of trying to catch waves before they break.

Step 3: Learn to Paddle lie centered on the board and paddle with alternating arm strokes. Keep your chest slightly raised and your eyes forward. Keep your hands cupped and fingers tight, so you can ↘Continued on 108

get the most momentum for effort exerted.

you might feel frightened as the wave crash close to you. Just keep your board secure, and paddle over the waves as much as you can before they peak and crash. It's essential to keep your board point out towards the horizon.

Step 4: Catch a wave

The perfect wave will eventually arrive, so you want to get prepared when you see it. Turn your board toward the shore, lay centered on the board, and paddle - pushing yourself into the wave. This is similar to boogie boarding.

Once you feel the kinetic energy of the wave beneath you, riding the water toward the shore, try to pop up. It may take a few tries, and you will definitely fall, but that is a part of the fun!

Every surfer has spent plenty of time tumbling in the ocean before successfully riding a wave. The key is getting back on the board and trying again.

Where to learn in South Jersey

The good news? you don't have to figure it out on your own.

7th Street Surf Shop

For decades, thousands of peo -

ple have learned to surf through 7th Street's programs. The shop offers private lessons, group instruction and summer surf camps with a strong focus on safety and fun. lessons take place at Ocean City's designated surfing beach, and many first-time students are standing up by the end of their first session.

Stacey’s Surf located in Margate, Stacey's Surf & Paddle offers lessons and camps for children, adults and even women-only surf nights. The school is known for

its supportive atmosphere and emphasis on ocean knowledge, safety awareness and confidence-building.

Heritage surf and sport

Since 1962, Heritage has helped shape South Jersey's surf culture. In addition to rentals and gear, the company offers surf lessons, camps and community programs through its Heritage Surf Club, welcoming surfers of all ages and skill levels.

Surfers supplies

A South Jersey institution since 1962, this Ocean City shop offers

rentals, expert advice and a welcoming environment for newcomers looking to purchase or rent their first board. The knowledgeable staff can help beginners find the right equipment and answer questions about local conditions.

Heart of surfing

This South Jersey nonprofit provides free surfing experiences and recreational opportunities for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Through volunteer instructors and adaptive programming, Heart of Surfing has introduced countless families to the joy of catching waves in an inclusive, supportive environment.

The best time to start

Summer is ideal for beginners because the water is warmer and the waves are generally smaller and gentler. Early mornings often provide the calmest conditions and fewer crowds. And remember: you don't need to become the next professional surfer to enjoy the sport. Sometimes, the greatest thrill is simply standing up on a wave for the first time and hearing your friends cheer from the beach. After all, every surfer—from the pros to the weekend warriors—started exactly the same way: by paddling into the ocean and taking that first leap of faith.

Let’s show appreciation for the families we make

By Chloe Cramutola

Ioften think of my father — and my father figures — on a baseball field.

It’s where Dad cheered me on as I sprinted around the diamond. It’s where my stepdad, Ty, recorded Mom and I having a catch or mashing softballs into an empty centerfield.

Citizens Bank Park is where my dad took me to see my first baseball game. It’s what turned me into a Phillies fan.

At one game, a few seasons after the Phillies’ World Series win in 2008, the Phanatic trotted up and down the stands with his inflatable clapper sticks, bonking fans on the head. The green furry creature soon spotted my father, who sat next to Mom and me. In a blink, I heard sounds of soft bopping — and one angry man.

The Phanatic tilted his head back and patted his stomach, miming laughter. My father did not crack a smile. His face burned as red as the baseball cap on his head.

Six-year-old me found this hilarious. As I got older, the memory fell a shade darker. Dad always broke into frequent tantrums. The smallest issue had him slamming cabinets and

screaming at Mom. Even a fun-loving mascot ticked him off.

I was ten years old when Mom finally left him. Three years later, he left me. We rarely call, let alone text. We don’t see each other anymore.

Two weeks ago on my birthday, I dragged my mom and stepdad to a Phillies game. While hoops always interested Ty more, he started paying attention to baseball because of me. He sports gray pinstripes instead of red. Despite our baseball team disputes, we now argue for the love of the sport.

My father disciplined me as a child, but my stepdad taught me self-discipline in my adult years. Ty showed resolve in his own practices. He stayed after my father took off. He encouraged me to weightlift, to read more. To exercise the body and the mind, even at my lowest.

Ty has been a father figure. He’s been my dad.

I do cherish the family I am bound to by blood. I often visit Mom’s side in l as Vegas to tap into my Filipino roots: Spooning instant coffee into hot water for my great aunt as I listen to stories about our lineage. Indulging in Filipino food like chicken adobo and halo halo — ube ice cream with

shaved ice and colorful jellies — my mother’s favorite dessert.

I also have no idea where I’d be without the family I found along the way. That includes my stepdad, my professors and my best friend of 16 years.

I met Professor Forrest at community college, just after the world creaked open in the aftermath of COVID-19. He stood on desks. He remembered slices of our lives, seemingly small details he’d bring up in office hours.

Forrest taught subject matter to his students the way a maestro might conduct his orchestra — with fervor and care. In that way, to many of us in the communication program, he became a mentor and a father figure. Four years later and I still keep in contact with him, chatting about life or how the Phillies almost gave us a heart attack.

While I don’t have any siblings, my best friend, Zoe, has been my sister since first grade. She’s also Filipino, so whenever her dad makes fried lumpia or pancit — egg rolls and noodles — I join her family at the dinner table. We pick up the phone at 5 a.m. We listen. We laugh and mourn the nostalgia of childhood and gossip about the boys we knew in college.

Chosen relationships can be stronger than blood ties because we have given ourselves the authority to make that choice. Found connections can empower us, especially those of us who escaped the broken-home narrative. I know my stepdad did. I know I did.

My stepdad did not have his biological father either. He knows how I feel about my own dad, and because of that, we are able to appreciate and see each other as a real family, blood ties or not.

At the end of the day, I always come back to baseball. I think of my father and father figures, and other people in my made family. I think of how the rules of the sport never change. But the wonderful thing is that every game has a different result, and that is how we should look at life.

We can find our people in an imperfect world. We can make the best of the cards dealt to us, even when the hand looks like a sure loss. In reality, the hand can be reshuffled, and we can look at our situation differently. life is beautiful in that way. The flaws of our blood ties allow us to find those who also never had a father, a daughter, or a sister.

In my 23 years of life, I’ve grown to appreciate these relationships — the ones built through earned trust, respect and love. “Blood is thicker than water,” they say. Except, the full phrase is allegedly, “The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.”

We just keep playing ball — sometimes with your biological parents, and sometimes with those who come into your life in a later inning.

Chloe is a multimedia editor and journalism major at Boston University, where she is Editor at The Daily Free Press. She will be graduating Spring '25. Connect with her on LinkedIn @ chloecramutola

SHORE FUNNY

N S T R I P E S L W H I T E R I J J A C K R E V O L U T I O N L V A Y G

M Y L B W V V P L O Q O L K E D Z H

J H D R B F W Q W T F G Z K E B K A

B

P

H T I N D E P E N D E N C E S J Y W

W A H U I W A T E R M E L O N F I I

Y H O Q P B G A K O K Z N B L U E F

PARADE FLAG

FIREWORKS HOTDOG

ICECREAM

PATRIOTIC STARS STRIPES

CONSTITUTION

BASEBALL AMERICA WATERMELON RED WHITE BLUE

INDEPENDENCE

PHILADELPHIA

PARTY

LIBERTYBELL

FREEDOM

SPARKLERS

BARBECUE

REVOLUTION

EAGLE

SUDOKU

ACROSS

1. Reproductive cell

5. Tai's partner

8. At the stern

11. Do like phoenix

12. Person of French descent

13. It can't be refused?

DOWN

1. ____ Approach in music education

2. The last Henry Tudor

3. Soviet acronym

4. Shooting star

5. Capital of Egypt

6. ____-dory

7. Varieties

15. Hand-to-hand combat weapon

16. Sty sound

17. Justin Bieber's 2015 hit

18. *Pyrotechnic display

20. De-wrinkler

21. Expression of delight

22. *"O say can you ____"

23. *One of three presidents who died on July 4

26. Gloria Gaynor's "I Will ____"

30. Turkish military leader

31. With complex decorations

34. Biblical place of bliss

35. Economic crisis

37. South American tuber

38. Gladiator's turf

39. Serum, pl.

40. Stellar

42. Humpty Dumpty did this

43. "Jeopardy" competitor, e.g.

45. Blotch or dapple

47. 34th Pres.

48. unmanned flyer

50. MXN, as in currency

52. *British monarch

56. *____ Burr, officer in Revolutionary War and VP

57. Aquarium dweller

58. Of two minds

59. *Puts John Hancock down

60. log splitter

61. Arrival times

62. Plays for pay

63. Ball in a socket

64. "____ and rave"

8. '70s hairdo

9. "Where the Red ____ Grows"

10. "Don't ____ this at home!"

12. Pyle of "The Andy Griffith Show"

13. Willow twig

14. *"The Stars and Stripes ____"

19. What pertussis patients do

22. Johnny Cash's boy with unfortunate name

23. En ___, or all together

24. Watcher

25. a.k.a. Pleasant Island

26. *State on Old Glory

27. "That is," latin

28. like bribe-taking politician

29. Related on mother's side

32. Narrow margin of victory

33. *Stamp ____, imposed tax on American colonies

36. *One of two Presidents to sign the Constitution

38. "____ came a spider..."

40. Gobbled up

41. like libertine

44. Venerated paintings in Orthodox church

46. ____-totter

48. unpleasant airport news

49. One in Pinkerton's gallery

50. Twosome

51. Renq Descartes' "therefore"

52. Hunted animal

53. Itty-bitty bit

54. Persian Gulf country

55. Research facil.

56. Pharaoh's cobra

THEME: THE 4TH OF JULY

Photos courtesy of Lew Graff Old and new views from Somers Point

1920's along with the railroad bridge, shown on the right.