Fall Fun & Live Music
Local Beach O ers Horseback Riding
Sleeping Out for a Cause
First Snow Forecast
SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE
Food fight: Give peas a chance
Letter from the editor
It seems South Jersey has developed a flair for food fights. I’m not talking about the kind we had in the school cafeteria back in fourth grade. I’ll never forget how red the principal’s face turned as he scolded us — I had never seen him so angry!
It appears some kids never grow up. Two recent food fights were between adults. I suppose it’s better than a fist to the face or any other kind of weapon, but still… what’s happening here? First there was road rage. Now we have food rage.
read that right.) What began as a simple argument over boardwalk etiquette ended with marinara sauce flying and a slice landing squarely on someone’s cheek. The whole thing was caught on video, went viral and even made national news.
Fast forward to this week, when the scene shifted across the bay to Somers Point’s beloved Crab Trap. There, diners
It started this summer on the o cean City boardwalk, when a disagreement escalated into what can only be described as a full-blown pizza-in-the-face incident. (Yes, you
The Facebook comments that followed had me laughing. Among my favorites: “Witnesses slaw the whole thing…”
“Slaw & o rder”
“He got charged with manslawter”
“I see a slawsuit coming”
were treated to an unexpected side dish — quite literally — when an altercation reportedly ended with coleslaw dumped over someone’s head.
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, Digital Marketing - Liz Katz
Contributors –Charles Eberson, Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Elisa Jo Eagan, Joe Martucci, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Chuck Darrow, Bruce Klauber, Alex Corson, Cat Pepe, Delaney Crawford, Ursula Duffy, Robin Stoloff, Tynan Hand, Madison Russ
We South Jersey folks are a passionate bunch. We take our pizza seriously, our crab cakes personally and our sports team loyalties to heart. Were they fighting about locals
versus shoobies, politics or a cheating spouse? The motive is unknown at this time. but maybe it’s time we all take a deep breath before letting our tempers — or food fly.
Let’s keep the food on our plates, not in our disputes. After all, there’s far more joy in sharing a slice than throwing one. And if you ever feel tempted to use your fries as a weapon, remember: even the seagulls have learned their lesson about being aggressive with food.
Thank you for picking up this issue of Shore Local. be sure to check out all the exciting events and entertainment in our “Wahoo” section, outlined in yellow at the center of this publication. Here is where you’ll find the best eateries and learn about foods to enjoy the right way. We always welcome your story ideas and feedback at shorelocalnews@gmail. com.
Peace & Love, Cindy
Cover photo of the Lake Lenape lighthouse in Mays Landing by Tim McGlynn.
Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly.
Police arrive on the scene after the coleslaw incident. Photo credit: David Campbell
Horseback riding in Brigantine offers shore fun throughout the offseason
By Julia Train
During the summer, b rigantine’s beaches are filled with people soaking up the sun in their bathing suits and running into the ocean. but once the crowds clear in the offseason, the shoreline becomes a peaceful path for horseback riders.
o n Friday, Nov. 7, Diane Kassab, her daughter and her 69-year-old mother were able to enjoy a day together riding along the sand.
Kassab’s daughter, 16, is an experienced competitor who rides with another facility but stays connected to Seahorse equestrian in Gloucester County through past involvement in 4-H and the I e A team.
Kassab said the group drew attention from beachgoers who were watching and taking pictures with the horses.
“ m y mom rode down with us, and we were standing on the beach,
Kassab and her daughter have ridden in b rigantine twice before and were invited by Seahorse equestrian.
and she said, ‘I always wanted to ride a horse on the beach.’ And I'm
like, ‘Well, here's your chance. Get on,’” she said.
With encouragement from Kassab and her daughter, her mother climbed onto the saddle.
“She was so happy. She had fun. It was a great day,” Kassab said.
The three brought their own horse, as did everyone else that day. b esides theirs, Kassab said there were about six other horses in the group with them.
Kassab owns three horses, all trained for english Jumping and Hunter classes — making it easy for them to ride on the sand.
“We tend to take the ones that we know can tolerate the commotion [and] the waves, because there are situations where some horses don't like it,” she said. “All the horses we took with us that day were all well behaved and used to lots of activity.
required for anything larger. riders bring their own horses and enter at 14th Street North, where parking is available, according to the Clerk’s o ffice.
To legally ride on the beach, equestrians must obtain a permit from the b rigantine City Clerk’s o ffice — a process Kassab said is remarkably fast.
“We went in and it took two seconds. [We] filled out a form, gave our trailer registration, paid the fee and we were on our way. I wasn't even in there for five whole minutes. It was real quick,” she said.
Permits — valid from Nov. 1 through m arch 30 from 7 a..m. to 8:30 p.m. — cost $100 for a twohorse trailer, $50 for veterans and $75 for seniors. A separate permit is
Kassab said she hopes b rigantine keeps the tradition alive. “It was a great experience. And it's awesome that b rigantine allows that on their beach, and hopefully they will continue to do it,” she said.
graduated from Rider University in 2024 with a BA in multiplatform journalism and minor in social media strategies. In addition to reporting on local news for Shore Local, she is a social media strategist for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @ juliatrain on Instagram.
Julia
Iced Bananas Foster with sweet cold foam
Praline Chai Latte for a limited time
Pumpkin Latte
Pair with a Chocolate Croissant! while supplies last
Riders can enter the beach at 14th Street North. Photo credit: Connie Pyatt
Diane Kassab, her daughter and her mother join Seahorse Equestrian to ride along the beach. Photo credit: Diane Kassab
Kassab's 69-year-old mother. Photo credit: Diane Kassab
Covenant House Sleep Out highlights youth homelessness
By Julia Train
Each year, approximately 4.2 million youth, young adults and teens experience homelessness in the United States, including 700,000 unaccompanied minors, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).
The organization reports that approximately one in 30 youth ages 13 to 17 will experience homelessness each year. NCSL notes that these figures may undercount the true number of homeless youth due to varying definitions of homelessness and the difficulty of reaching unhoused young people, many of whom are not in shelters and frequently move between temporary sleeping arrangements. Its voices of Youth Count research reflects that youth homelessness affects rural, suburban and urban communities at similar rates.
For Diane Schuman, the scale of the crisis underscores why she has spent 13 years volunteering at Covenant House Atlantic City. After being asked to speak to young residents about job readiness over a decade ago, she’s kept showing up each week to help them create their resumes, fill out job applications and show them how to present themselves. Now, she is on the nonprofit’s program board.
it sheds light on the crisis of youth homelessness across our country.”
Since its first event, participation has grown exponentially.
“It was small, and each year grew bigger and bigger and bigger,” Schuman said. This year, 36 individuals are expected to sleep outside in cardboard boxes.
The experience is meant to be uncomfortable. “It's just to make it more real, to understand what a kid might feel… scared, alone, cold, hungry,” she said.
The emotional impact stays with her.
“ volunteering is a privilege,” Schuman said, noting the stories she hears — stories involving trafficking, abandonment, addiction and aging out of foster care.
Schuman has a personal fundraising goal of $2,500 and leads a team aiming for $10,000. She said she is
Schuman was also asked to join the nonprofit’s first annual Sleep out, an overnight event that raises awareness and funds for the organization. She’s been attending it each year ever since.
m ost Sleep o ut events across the country take place around the same time; Covenant House Philadelphia is hosting its Sleep out at Citizens bank Park this year.
In Atlantic City, the event begins with a candlelight vigil, where Schuman will read a passage that opens the ceremony and guides participants into reflection. The vigil honors young lives lost.
“We pay homage to all the kids that they've lost throughout the year,” she said. “It's very solemn and
moved by the generosity she sees, even from donors struggling themselves.
“This is something that's very unique to the Covenant House,” she said. “And my feelings is that nobody in America, especially youth, should ever be homeless… It's my privilege to help them and volunteer.”
The upcoming Sleep o ut begins Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at 8 p.m. and runs through Saturday morning, concluding with breakfast and reflections from 6 to 7 a.m.
The event proceeds rain or shine, as Covenant House emphasizes on its website: “Young people on the street don't always have a place to seek refuge until they find Covenant House. During the Sleep o ut, the same goes for you.” This year’s fundraising goal is $275,000.
Diane Schuman's team each year consists of coworkers
By Steffen Klenk
The holiday shopping season is here, and whether you are seeking a unique gift for yourself or someone special, you are certain to find it at the Charity League of Atlantic County’s 78th Annual Christmas mart. This year, the event is moving to its new home at the Linwood Country Club and will be held for one day only on Friday, Nov. 21. While there are several changes, attendees will enjoy the same incredible atmosphere and a sense of community that has welcomed countless shoppers for decades.
The annual Christmas m art has become a long-running South Jersey tradition, spanning generations. The mart features a wide array of handcrafted items, from carefully made decorations and ornaments to table runners and tree skirts. The event also includes a variety of gourmet baked goods, cakes, pies, and mouthwatering spritz cookies made by a secret recipe.
Preparations are currently underway to make this year’s event a suc-
cess, with active members working diligently on Christmas ornaments, pins, table runners, and other eclectic items to be sold. Guests can even enjoy photos with Santa along with phenomenal raffle items. “All of the activities that are normally spread out for two days are going to be jam-packed into one day full of fun,” commented mary Alice vesper, mart Chairperson.
Since its inception, the Christmas m art has become famous for selling limited-edition pins, each one designed and crafted with the utmost care. Up to 6,000 pins are made annually, and each one takes approximately two hours to complete by hand. over the years, these uniquely designed pins have become keepsakes among regular attendees, with much anticipation surrounding what the design will look like. “It is kept a secret until that very day,” vesper explained.
In addition, over 20 vendors are scheduled to attend this year’s event, including 7311 bakery, Apple Creations A.S.o m . Studio, b ella U, Coastal Farmhouse, m ud Girls, Talk
of the Walk, and Wayward Gardens, among others.
All proceeds from the Christmas m art directly benefit organizations in need throughout Atlantic County, including the Atlantic County Day Nursery, Avanzar (formerly known as the Women’s Center), Center for Family Services, Covenant House of Atlantic City, and Donny’s Fund. over the past year, the Charity League has raised over $130,000 through the sale of its pins, handcrafted items, and special events.
The Charity League of Atlantic County was founded in 1932 by Clara reeve endicott of the Junior Commit-
tee of the Atlantic City Day Nursery and consisted of local women who donated their time to the nursery. Three years later, the Charity League was incorporated, and volunteer efforts were increased throughout the area. The organization is comprised of 40 active and associate members, with active members volunteering over 200 hours per year.
vesper gives credit to Linwood Country Club for their incredible hospitality. “I feel like the Dougherty family opened their hearts and were so gracious. They made it super, super easy.”
The 78th Annual Christmas mart will be held Friday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. at Linwood Country Club, 500 Shore rd. Free valet parking will be available. more information is available at www.charityleague-ac. com by following The Charity League of Atlantic County on Facebook.
Additionally, the Linwood Country Club will be open to the public for lunch and dinner. reservations can be made online via resy or by calling 609-927-6134.
Photo by Steffen Klenk
By Lisa Zaslow Segelman
Two days before Halloween, a young woman and her mom standing in front of me at Hobby Lobby were chatting about their mega-Christmas decoration order as pastel-colored items moved down the counter.
I commented that I’d noticed at Home Goods, Christmas was pink this year. Like me, not everyone prefers primary colors like red and green. but a pink-and-white holiday snowscape? Divine.
The daughter replied that, even though it was only oct. 29, she was ready to take down her Halloween decorations and start her holiday shopping.
“ but Halloween hasn’t even happened yet,” I said politely, exasperated.
Time, love and heart
The best gifts don’t come in a box
We all know the holidays seem to start earlier each year. b lack Friday once kicked off the season, but now stores push us to get out there before the leaves turn brown.
I just got a mailer for “ early black Friday” deals from b J’s. They’re promising over 20 deals from o ct. 31 to Nov. 16 – even before we’ve put away costumes and finished the candy. It made me think: the best presents don’t always come in a box. Sometimes the ones that truly stay with us are gifts of time, creativity, heart and presence.
For me, one of those gifts was living with my maternal grandparents in shore houses during my youth in b rigantine, Atlantic City and ventnor. I don’t think Grandmom Dora and Grandpop Lester ever gave me a material gift – maybe a doll once. That never occurred to me until now. my grandparents weren’t wealthy, but they shared something far more lasting: their time.
Summers spent together gave us kids the freedom to just hang out. my grandfather, a whiz at cards and math, taught my brother and me 500 rummy, Knock rummy and pinochle.
We became fast card sharks, and he never let our age matter.
“You played the ace already!” he would exclaim, as if we were all equals at the table.
He would rise early to wrap our paper-route papers with rubber bands so they’d be ready when we rolled out of bed and onto our bikes. my grandmother would take me to pick flowers – a big event, even if the “bright little bouquets” were just dandelions.
She would make me an an-aila (egg in Yiddish) or lochshon (noodles with butter, cottage cheese, and sour cream – or all three!) and eat any burnt toast herself so it wouldn’t be wasted or upset my mother. These are gifts you never forget.
Locals I spoke with also recalled experiences rather than boxes and bows.
“I have so many memories from Hanukkah as a kid to being an adult on Christmas morning and feeling immense gratitude without even opening my gifts,” said Jan Carafagno of ventnor. “Watching my family in awe at how they’ve grown, how they choose gifts for each other –charitable donations or simply being together – makes me feel like the most grateful person alive.”
For ventnor resident Susan Sands, a non-material gift came during the disappointments of CovID-19.
“I was turning 60, and celebration options were limited,” she said. A friend brought a big poster and a
were about people and experiences.
“ m y mom took my brother and me to California when I was 9 to visit my grandmother and my aunt, a very colorful woman – always pushing us to eat her food.”
Instead of material presents, his family took him to LeGo LAND California, a perfect adventure for a boy his age.
“Some of the Lego sculptures –knights, pirates, superheroes – were bigger than me. b ut the food, my aunt’s antics and the time spent with my one-of-a-kind relatives created memories far more valuable than any expensive gift.”
For my niece’s shower, I asked each guest to choose a word to describe the bride and send photos, then designed a tribute book around those words. Whenever she needs a lift, her husband says, “ read your book!”
At the end of the day it’s not ribbons or paper that make a gift memorable, it’s the time spent, the care shown and the love shared.
Whether it’s a summer at the shore, a hand-picked flower/weed, a poster and cake on the lawn, or a trip to LeG o LAND, these are the presents that linger in memory – and in the heart – long after the season has passed.
Lisa is an advertising copywriter (think ‘Madmen’ without the men), journalist and columnist. Claim to fame: Lou’s waitress
The first snow at the Jersey Shore: Sometimes a flurry, sometimes a blizzard
By Meteorologist Joe Martucci
The first snow of the season at the Jersey Shore is usually something to smile about. It’s light and fun. maybe just a few flakes in the air or a quick snow shower that melts fast. It makes you think of cozy things: a warm fire, snow on the sand at the beach, or a surprise day off from school or work.
At two weather stations near the Jersey Shore – Atlantic City International Airport and Lower Township – the first snow average is 1.6 inches deep. That’s not much. m ost people think it’s more fun than trouble.
However, sometimes the first snow is a big surprise.
Four times at Atlantic City International, and three times in Lower
Township, the very first snowy day of the season dropped more than 6 inches. That’s a lot for the first one.
I love snow any time, but a huge first snow can catch everyone off guard. It’s like playing a big game without warming up, or running a race in brand-new shoes.
Nobody is ready yet. m eteorologists might miss a forecasting tidbit. road crews might not put out enough salt and plows. Drivers forget to go slow and careful like they do later in winter. That makes slippery roads extra dangerous.
o n average the first real snow at the Jersey Shore waits until the second half of December. However, there are a few times in weather history when snow has been noteworthy and early.
December 5, 2002
In 2002 the first snow of the season at the Jersey Shore was a
nor’easter that dropped more than 6 inches of snow.
snow, according to N oAA. An area of low pressure developed on a frontal boundary along the Gulf Coast states. eventually, that low pressure moved through the Southeastern United States, went off the North Carolina coast and quickly raced northeast, according to raymond C. martin Jr. It was a nor’easter.
Snowfall totals were sizeable:
● 7.6 inches in e stell m anor, Atlantic County
● 7.0 inches in Hammonton, Atlantic County
● 6.0 inches in Woodbine, Cape may County
● 5.5 inches in Green Creek, Cape may County
● 5.0 inches at Atlantic City International Airport
Perhaps more impressive was that these totals were
erage temperatures. The snow that fell took six days to fully melt across the area as high temperatures stayed below 35 degrees nearly every day from Dec. 4 to Dec. 10.
November 30, 1967 before 2002, you had to go back 35 years to experience a first winter storm as significant for the Jersey Shore.
At ACY Airport 7.8 inches of snow fell, the second largest leading snowfall of the season on record (a late start in 2022 was higher). Lower Township experienced 3.0 inches of snow.
This snow engulfed much of the m id-Atlantic. A b altimore Sun headline proclaimed: “Near record November Snowfall Catches City Without Its Plows.”
November 6, 1953
This is one of the largest first snows on record, and one of the earliest, too. Snow spread from western North Carolina to New england. This wasn’t a 100% snowstorm; 3.2 inches of snow at ACY Airport mixed with a total of 3.98 inches of precipitation. In essence, about 10% of the precipitation that fell was snow. Still, it counts.
Places farther south saw less snow mixed in. by the time you went
to Lower Township, the storm was all rain. The Cape may bubble was still alive and well then, too.
The New York Times wrote that New York’s highways were covered in an icy sheen and many motorists going upstate had to sleep overnight in their cars.
The storm was tropical at first. It was a tropical depression that moved across Florida. It then transitioned from a warm-core, tropical storm, into a cold-core, nor’easter. ready for the storm was a huge mass of cold air in the Northeastern United States. That turned what was warm rain into some snow.
December 8, 1928
The third biggest first snow of the season in Lower Township’s long stretch of weather records (back to 1897), was a pure snowmaker, even at the immediate coast.
Lower Township saw 9.6 inches of snow on 0.80 inches of precipitation, according to N oAA. That’s a snow ratio of 12:1, meaning this wasn’t a sloppy, wet mess of snow, either.
ACY Airport wasn’t around yet. However, Atlantic City kept snow records then and they were blanketed in 3.9 inches of snow. High temperatures stayed in the 30s for the next two days after that, keeping the snow on the ground, too.
Archive weather maps from NoAA show that this was a coastal storm. Low pressure the morning of Dec. 8 was roughly 40 degrees north latitude, and 75 degrees west longitude. Today, that’s known as the “benchmark,” or the position coastal storms should cross to bring at least some snow to the coast. Winds were from the north or northeast at the Jersey Shore, pumping in the icy air.
Thanksgiving
Day, 1912
Talk about cold turkey. Nov. 28,
1912, brought a statewide blanket of snowfall, delivering a rare “White Thanksgiving.” In fact, it has an argument to claim a spot as the snowiest Thanksgiving on record statewide.
In Lower Township, 4.5 inches fell. In Atlantic City, Northfield and Tuckerton, 4.0 inches fell.
I imagine there were a lot of melted (dirt) roads that turned into ice at night. The days following it were well above freezing during the day, dropping a good bit below freezing at night.
Like the early 1928 snow, this storm was a coastal storm. Known as a miller A type storm, it began off the Georgia coast. It quickly moved north-northeast, passing almost right at that 40-degree north latitude, 75 degree west longitude benchmark.
What are your snow thoughts?
Love it? Hate it? You want one snow and then that’s it? Drop me a note on social media or email.
Joe Martucci, a certified broadcast meteorologist and digital meteorologist, is also the president and director of meteorology for Cup A Joe Weather and Drone. You can connect with him at cupajoe.live.
Family-friendly fun awaits at the Cape May County Park & Zoo
By Marcella Curcio
If you are an animal lover, or seeking a fun outing for the whole family, the Cape may County Park & Zoo is the perfect choice! Located in Cape may Court House, just inland from Avalon and Stone Harbor, the zoo is home to 200 different species, including snow leopards, river otters, giraffes, and two new baby capybaras that were born in late october of this year. every corner of this zoo reveals an adorable new animal to discover, as well as countless opportunities to learn interesting facts.
As you first enter the zoo, you will be greeted by pigs, cows, and goats, which you can feed and interact with up close. As you wander through
this curated habitat, you’ll come to the North American Prairie exhibit, where bison roam around. Next up is the African Savanna exhibit, where you can observe giraffes and zebras from a boardwalk vantage point.
These are just a few examples of the many wide-ranging wildlife exhibits. everywhere you turn, diverse animals await, from mammals and
primates to the snakes and frogs of the reptile house. At the “Snow Leopard Conservation” exhibit, you can watch the playfulness of snow leopards. As you explore, you may also come across Helmeted Guinea Fowl and Indian Peafowl that roam around freely. This is just a glimpse of all the types of animals the zoo has to offer.
In addition, there are fun facts all around the zoo with helpful information on the animals, plus some fun interactive activities like “Spread Your Wings.” This is a kid-favorite, in which they can extend and measure their arms to compare with the birds’ wingspans. besides all of the natural photo opportunities throughout the zoo, there are numerous photo stand-in opportunities where you place your head in a cutout and become a zoo animal, perfect for remembering your great times at the zoo.
The zoo also offers much more to do than typical zoo-related exhibits. As soon as you walk in the main entrance, the carousel greets you with fun animals to choose from for your ride, along with a mining sluice where you can discover and find gems. The extremely popular seasonal “Tree to Tree Cape m ay” features obstacles and a zip line where you navigate from tree to tree on an exhilarating above-ground course. In addition to the more active and adventurous options, you can enjoy walking the nature trails. Plus, there is a playground with slides, swings, and other fun amenities. There are activities for all interest levels and ages, creating an environment to welcome all zoogoers, with multiple options to choose from.
make sure to check out their upcoming holiday events. o n Nov. 29, 2-6 p.m., stop by for the tree lighting and, of course, an appearance from Santa himself! The event includes vendors, a holiday drone show, a bouncy castle, an obstacle course, an ice sculpture demonstration, a wild light train, and much more fun. This is the perfect event to kick off the season and bring some holiday cheer, while enjoying all the zoo has to offer. From exploring and learning about animals to enjoying all the other interactive activities, plus the upcoming holiday events, the Cape may County Zoo is an ideal trip for you and your family. Creating memories of fun and
laughter, this may very well become a new family tradition to stop by while enjoying the charm of the shore towns. The zoo has been bringing friends and family together with joy and adventure for many years and will continue to do so. make sure to stop by and mark your calendars; you won’t be disappointed.
Photos by Marcella Curcio
Events and Happenings
Multi-day Events
Linwood Library Fall Book and Bake Sale
▶Friday, Nov. 14 and Saturday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Linwood Library, 301 Davis Ave.
The Friends of the Linwood Library are hosting their annual Fall book and bake Sale in the All-Purpose room. There are many great book selections and delicious homebaked goodies to choose from. Stockton Theatre Project: ‘Songs for a New World’
▶Thursday, Nov. 13-Sunday, Nov. 16
Stockton e xperimental Theatre, 101 vera King Farris Drive, Suite K-144, Galloway
Support Stockton theatre students as they embark on a new project, “Songs for a New World.” This moving collection of powerful songs examines life, love and the choices that we make. Showtimes are Thursday, Nov. 13 through Sunday, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.stockton.edu/pac. On Location Landscape Photography Workshops
▶Saturdays, Nov. 15 and 22
The Somers Point Arts Com -
mission is offering three landscape photography workshops, designed for intermediate photographers with a manually controlled camera and tripod. The cost is $30 for all workshops. email danmyersphoto@gmail.com to register and for further details.
JCC Arts Books and Culture Festival
▶Now-Nov. 25
Katz JCC, 501 N. Jerome Ave., margate
m ore than 25 events will encompass the entire festival throughout the month. Learn more and view the entire schedule at www.jccatlantic. org.
‘Peter and the Starcatcher’
▶Thursday, Nov. 20-Saturday, Nov. 22
Hughes Performing Arts Center
Sixth St. and Atlantic Ave., ocean City
Join the o cean City High School Drama Guild as they present “Peter and the Starcatcher” live on stage. See this legendary tale of Peter Pan take flight with music, songs and adventure. visit www.facebook.com/ groups/ochsdramaguild to purchase tickets or learn more.
‘Charlotte’s Web’
▶Thursday, Nov. 20-Saturday, Nov. 22
Absegami High School, 201 S. Wrangleboro rd., Galloway
The Absecon emanon Players are proud to present “Charlotte’s Web.” See the charming and heartwarming story come to life on stage with theatrics, songs and adventure. Tickets are on sale now at www.absegami. net/o/ahs
Thursday, November 13
Ocean City Community Care Day
▶2-6 p.m.
ocean City Civic Center, Sixth St. and boardwalk
Join the Cape may County Department of Health and volunteers in medicine for a free day of care and meet with community vendors. A variety of services will be offered, including cholesterol and diabetes screenings, blood pressure checks, exams, skin cancer screenings, flu vaccinations and more. Admission is free.
Rotary Club OCUT Meeting
▶5:30 p.m.
Point Diner, 8 m acArthur b lvd., Somers Point
Join the rotary Club of o cean City and Upper Township for their upcoming meeting. This month’s guest speaker will be eric Hitchner, acting postmaster of the o cean City Post o ffice. Guests, prospective members and the general public are invited to attend. To learn more, visit www. ocutrotary.org.
Friday, November 14
Holiday Tree Lighting at Tanger Outlets
▶5-8 p.m.
2014 baltic Ave., Atlantic City
The festivities will include face painting and balloon artists, walking LeD jugglers, make and take reindeer food, giveaways and surprises, delightful treats and holiday cheer, along with festive music and community fun. The evening will unfold with
a tree lighting to officially welcome the season.
November Dinner and a Movie
▶5:30 p.m.
Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Join Longport Library for a special screening of the new “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.” Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. with dessert and discussion after the presentation. Call 609-457-7403 to register or learn more.
Penny Party ▶6 p.m.
Second Cape may baptist Church, 600 route 9 S. marmora
Join Cape may ranch Hope Auxiliary No.18 for their Penny Party, benefiting ranch Hope for bays. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 and include one sheet of numbers, thank you ticket and desserts. Food will be available for purchase.
Ocean City Library Fall Concert Series ▶7 p.m.
1735 Simpson Ave.
This week, hear the b uddy Gale b ig b and for a live concert at the Chris maloney Lecture Hall. enjoy the music of the Greatest Generation. The concert is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served. For more information, call 609-399-2434.
‘Black Angels Over Tuskegee’ ▶7:30 p.m.
Stockton Performing Arts Center, 101 vera King Farris Drive, Suite K-144, Galloway
Inspired by true events, “ b lack Angels over Tuskegee” is a vibrantly energetic, emotionally captivating, award-winning drama that tells the story of six trail-blazing men who show courage to excel despite overwhelming odds. Tickets can be purchased online at www.stockton. edu/pac.
Saturday, November 15
ARCS Christmas Craft Fair
▶9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Assumption regional Catholic School, 146 S. Pitney road, Galloway
Save the date for this Christmas shopping extravaganza. The 35th Annual ArCS Christmas Craft Fair will welcome over 90 vendors selling jewelry, ornaments, holiday décor, crochet, clothing, accessories and more. There’s fun for the whole family with character meet and greets, pictures with Santa, craft tables, carnival games and performances by the ArCS Choir.
Ocean City Winterfest by the Sea
▶9 a.m.-3 p.m.
ocean City Civic Center, Sixth St. and boardwalk
The o cean City Chamber of Commerce presents their annual Winterfest by the Sea Holiday Shopping e xtravaganza. enjoy a full day of shopping with craft vendors, food vendors and special guests strolling the market. Free admission and parking. For more information, call 609-399-1412.
Margate Paper Shredding Event
▶9 a.m.-12 p.m.
margate Public Works, 101 N. benson Ave.
This Saturday, declutter your home, gather your papers and meet at the Public Works Department for their Paper Shredding event. The event is open to all margate residents. Storybook Land’s Christmas Fantasy with Lights
▶2-9 p.m.
6415 black Horse Pike, egg Harbor Township
Holiday magic is returning to Storybook Land this Saturday as the Christmas Fantasy with Lights returns. Watch as Storybook Land is transformed into a winter wonderland as Santa Claus lights up the park with over 1 million Christmas lights. Tickets can be purchased online at www.storybookland.com.
‘Jersey Lawman: A Life on the Right Side of Crime’
▶7 p.m.
The Clemans Theatre for the Arts, 717 Franklin St. Cape may enjoy a one-night-only staged reading adapted from the award-winning memoir by Jim Plousis and George Ingram. “Jersey Lawman” chronicles the 40-year law enforcement career of former Cape m ay County Sheriff and U.S. marshal, Jim Plousis. This harrowing and heartwarming account of fighting crime offers a glimpse into Cape may County’s history as never told before. Pay what you will at the door. Proceeds benefit Garden State Concerns for Police Survivors and the east Lynn Theatre Company.
Sunday, November 16
Risley Square Holiday Market
▶10 a.m.-3 p.m.
319 e . Jimmie Leeds road, Galloway
Come out to risley Square and support your local shops, with vendors selling jewelry, candles, soaps, food, drinks and more. There will be plenty of activities for the kids.
Monday, November 17
Colony Club of Ocean City Open House
▶6:30 p.m.
o cean City Community Center, room 111, 1735 Simpson Ave.
The Colony Club of o cean City invites the public to their annual open House. All are invited to meet the members, learn about volunteering and scholarship fundraising. Light refreshments will be served. Join them for a meeting immediately after the o pen House. For additional information, contact colonyclub.oceancitynj@ gmail.com.
The New Jersey Native Plant Society’s Southeast Chapter will hold its monthly meeting this monday. Pat Sutton will share the basics on how to create and maintain a no-fuss wildlife pond. This meeting will be held in Stockton’s Unified Science Center, room 346. Additional information can be found at www.npsnj.org/chapters/southeast.
Tuesday, November 18
Sustainable Book Club OCUT
▶7 p.m.
Upper Twp. Senior and Wellness Center, 1369 Stagecoach r oad, ocean view
The Sustainable b ook Club of
o cean City and Upper Township will hold its monthly meeting this Tuesday, with a discussion on “Waste Wars” by Alexander Clapp. This meeting will be held in-person and virtually. Walk-ins are welcome. register in advance at https://tinyurl. com/SbG18NovZoom.
Senior Dance Society
▶7:30-10 p.m.
Somers Point Fire Co. No.1, 447 bethel road
Come join in the fun and enjoy an evening of dancing with live musical duos every Tuesday. Activities include social dancing, line dancing, dance
Continued on 18
Native Plant Society Meeting
▶7 p.m.
Stockton University, 101 vera King Farris Drive, Galloway
Holiday Tree Lighting at Tanger Outlets Photo credit: NJ Casino Reinvestment Development Authority Facebook
mixers and more. For more information, contact Sharon at kookiecar@ yahoo.com.
Wednesday, November 19
Latin Rhythms by the Sea Exhibit
Opening and Pipe Organ Concert
▶11:45 a.m.
The Atlantic City e xperience at Jim Whelan b oardwalk Hall, 2301 Pacific Ave., Atlantic City
This exhibit showcases Atlantic City’s rich Latin music heritage through memorabilia and photos. The opening of the exhibit this Wednesday will also include a Latin concert on boardwalk Hall’s famed pipe organ. Admission is free. Parking under boardwalk Hall is free for this event.
Thursday, November 20
Throwback Thursday: JewishOwned Businesses of Historic
Atlantic City
▶10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Shirat Hayam, 700 N. Swarthmore Ave., ventnor
Atlantic City’s Jewish community shaped the resort’s reputation through its many businesses. In this program, you will learn about the businesses, shops and hotels that have built a strong community presence. rSvP by Nov. 17 by contacting
Tina Serota at 609287-8872 or tserota@ jfsatlantic.org.
Friday, November 21
Charity League
Christmas Mart
▶10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Linwood Country Club, 500 Shore road, Linwood
m ark your calendars for the Charity League’s 78th Annual Christmas m art. This year’s event will be held at a new time and location in Linwood. enjoy a full day of shopping under one roof. Sip and shop as you support area businesses. Free valet parking. visit www.charityleague-ac.com for more information.
Memoir Workshop
▶10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Saturday, November 22
Earlier than the Bird Holiday
Shopping Extravaganza
▶8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Now is the time to tell your story like you have never told it. e xperience the thrill of capturing life’s adventures, history and ancestry, with award-winning author Harriet Levin millan. This program will be held via Zoom. rSvP by Nov. 19 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
Downtown Asbury Ave., o cean City
Get out earlier than the bird next Saturday and jump start your holiday shopping the weekend before Thanksgiving. Shop in your pajamas for early bird shopping specials throughout Asbury Avenue. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Northfield Flea Market
▶8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Northfield Community School, 2000 New road
Get ready for an exciting Saturday of holiday shopping in Northfield, with a variety of items sold by 35 vendors. For more information, call Joan at 609-374-6614.
Sip and Shop Holiday Market
▶11 a.m.-3 p.m.
ventnor Social, 6417 ventnor Ave.
Sip, shop and support local ventnor businesses at this one-day event. A wide variety of items will be for sale, along with gift cards, crafts, half-price arcade games and drink specials. Admission is free. The event is sponsored by the ventnor business Association.
Sunday, November 23
Margate Community Fall Farmers Market
▶10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Steve and Cookie’s, 9700 Amherst Ave.
Get ready for Thanksgiving and stock up on produce and goods ahead of the holiday season. Plus, check out the array of local vendors selling unique products and gifts. The event will take place inside Steve and Cookie’s on the verandah. The restaurant o yster bar will be open.
Bus Trips
Christmas Bus Trip to NYC featuring the Radio City Rockettes
▶Tuesday, Dec. 9
Join ocean City recreation for a bus trip to New York City. The trip is $175 and includes luxury coach bus roundtrip transport, tickets to the radio City Christmas Show at 11 a.m. and time on your own after the show to explore NYC. The bus will depart from the ocean City Transportation Center at 7:15 a.m. and leave New York City at 5 p.m. m ore information is available at ocnj.recdesk.com.
Health and Wellness
Coffee Talk
▶Saturdays, 11 a.m.
Atlantic Community Wellness Center, 1125 Atlantic Ave., Suite 617, Atlantic City
The Atlantic County Wellness Center hosts a weekly gratitude-themed group. During this one-hour meeting, participants discuss, enhance and deepen their practice of gratitude, which is shown to reduce stress, improve mood and increase optimism. For more information, call 609-6523800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
Monday Meditation and Stretching
▶mondays, 11:30 a.m.
m ental Health Association in
Atlantic County, 4 e . Jimmie Leeds road, Galloway
The Atlantic County Wellness Center provides a weekly meditation, follow-up discussion and light stretch on mondays. Newcomers and people with all levels of experience in meditation are welcome. For more information, call 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
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. m eetings are led by peers who have lived experience. No cost to participate. o ffered by the m ental Health Association in Atlantic County. For more information, call 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@ mhanj.org.
MHA Atlantic Family Meetings
▶Wednesday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m.
These virtual support groups and educational programs are for
resources and advocacy. m eetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday and 7 p.m. every third Wednesday. Contact Gail Christian at 609-652-3800 ext. 0301, or gchristian@mhanj.org to receive a meeting link.
Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, Nov. 19, 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 Family Support and Connection Groups
▶monday, Dec. 8, 7-8:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 606 Shore road, Somers Point
NAm I Family Support Group is a peer-led group for family members, caregivers and loved ones (18+) of individuals living with a mental illness. NAm I Connection is a recovery support group for adults living with a mental health condition. visit www. namiacm.org or email info@namiacm. org for more information.
This Thanksgiving, only the turkey should get stuffed
By Robin Stoloff
Thanksgiving is all about family, gratitude and great food, but let’s be honest, it’s also the one day a year when “stuffed” describes more than the turkey. between the appetizers, the main course and the dessert table that seems to go on forever, it’s easy to go from pleasantly full to completely overstuffed. This year let’s flip the script. The only thing that should be stuffed on Thanksgiving is the turkey!
The best way to avoid overeating begins long before the turkey hits the table. Skipping breakfast or “saving calories” for dinner sounds like a good idea, but it actually sets you up for disaster. When you arrive hungry,
it’s much harder to make mindful choices and much easier to overfill your plate.
Instead, start your morning with a balanced breakfast that includes protein and fiber. Think scrambled eggs with veggies or low-fat Greek yogurt with berries and a handful of pumpkin seeds or nuts — two of my favorite breakfast options. It will help keep your blood sugar steady and enable you to make smarter choices later in the day.
Festive beverages can add up faster than you realize. eggnog, sugary cocktails and sweet wines are packed with hidden calories and sugar. Try alternating every drink with a glass of water or sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice. Not only will you stay hydrated, but you’ll also feel fuller and less likely to snack mindlessly before dinner.
When dinner is served, take a moment to look over everything before loading your plate. There’s no rule that says you must try every single dish on the table. Pick your absolute favorites, maybe your grandmother’s stuffing or your cousin’s famous
mashed potatoes, and skip what doesn’t truly excite you. b y being selective, you’ll still enjoy your meal without ending up in a food coma on the couch.
o ne of the easiest ways to avoid feeling stuffed is to start with smaller portions. You can always go back for seconds if you’re still hungry, but you might find that a small serving is just enough. Use this trick: half your plate should be filled with colorful vegetables, one quarter with lean protein like turkey, and the other quarter with starches such as stuffing or potatoes. This simple visual balance helps keep calories and post-dinner guilt in check.
It takes about twenty minutes for your brain to realize your stomach is full, so give it a chance to catch up. Savor each bite, talk between mouthfuls and put your fork down now and then. Not only will you enjoy the flavors more, but you’ll also feel satisfied with less food. And if you want to try everything? A few small bites of each favorite dish are better than overdoing it on all of them.
After dinner, resist the urge to plop on the couch and loosen your belt. Instead, head outside for a short walk with family or friends. even ten minutes of movement helps digestion, steadies blood sugar and keeps your energy up. It’s also a great way to connect and make memories that don’t involve another slice of pie.
If the weather’s chilly, bundle up and stroll around the neighborhood, or start a fun family tradition like a post-dinner walk, touch football game or even a dance party in the living room.
You don’t have to skip dessert to stay on track. Choose your favorite
sweet, maybe it’s pumpkin pie, apple crisp or pecan tart, and enjoy a small portion slowly. If you’re not truly craving dessert, skip it and take some home for later. That way, you’ll have something to look forward to without overindulging.
Focus on what really fills you up
Thanksgiving is about so much more than food. It’s about connection, laughter, gratitude and love. When you focus on those moments, such as sharing stories, watching the game or helping in the kitchen, food becomes just one part of the celebration, rather than the main event.
If you catch yourself reaching for another helping out of habit, pause and ask, “Am I still hungry, or just eating because it’s there?” That simple awareness can keep you from crossing the line between satisfied and stuffed.
When the dishes are cleared and the leftovers packed away, the goal is to feel content, not uncomfortable. b y making a few mindful choices, you’ll leave the table energized, not exhausted.
This Thanksgiving, enjoy every delicious bite, but remember: the turkey is the only thing that should be stuffed!
Robin is a former television reporter for NBC News 40. She currently hosts a podcast and radio program called Living Well with Robin Stoloff. It airs Sundays at 10 AM on Lite 96.9. You can email Robin at
More indoor fun for families coming to Galloway this month
Family Tides
By Madison Russ
When Danielle migliacci envisioned mini minds
Playtime, an indoor children’s play space opening in Galloway this month, building community was at the heart of it.
“I saw a need for a community-focused play space that wasn’t just about entertainment — it’s about growth and togetherness. That’s what really sparked it, creating a space that supports both kids’ development and parents’ peace of mind,” migliacci said.
With that vision in mind, migliacci is preparing to welcome families to the new space this month with a soft opening set for Tuesday, Nov. 11, through Friday, Nov. 14, from 11 a.m.
to 3 p.m. An event is planned for Saturday, Nov. 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with Cafe con Amor on site until 2 p.m. to help parents get their caffeine fix. rSvPing to the event is recommended.
The soft opening will give families a preview of what’s to come before the official grand opening, set for the weekend of Nov. 22-23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The grand opening will feature character visits from favorites such as bluey, Stitch, elsa and Spider- man.
After about a year of planning and preparation, migliacci’s vision is finally coming full circle — one that began with her own search for something local.
Part of migliacci’s inspiration for m ini m inds Playtime came from her search for a nearby place where her 2-year-old son Jason could explore and learn through creativity. Finding few local options, she soon realized other moms were in a similar boat.
“I found that there was nowhere to go with my son when he was born,
and I wanted to get out of the house. I wanted something for infants, and it just wasn’t around this area. I found myself as he was getting older and
walking, we had to drive an hour to go to any place to play, to have any interaction with kids because he wasn’t in daycare yet,” she explained.
migliacci said she had a clear vision in mind based on what she liked for her own son but did additional research on what would appeal to a range of ages.
“I really had a vision, before I went to these other places, based on what I personally liked for my son as well. I’m not just going to throw a bunch of things in a room and say, ‘ o K, have at it.’ I really took the time to research each age group and what they would be into,” she said.
The new space is designed for newborns through age 8, with areas tailored to every stage of play — from infant development and soft play zones to imaginative playsets such as a hair salon and doctor’s office, plus climbing structures with tubes and a slide.
“We have a little bit of everything for everyone,” m igliacci said. “We tried to keep in mind, too, parents with multiple children. It’s hard to take an 8 year old to a place for a 2 year old.”
rather than something sprawling, the space was intentionally designed with a manageable layout, allowing parents to relax without worrying about losing sight of their kids. Cleanliness is also a top priority, with planned daily sanitation and scheduled deep cleanings.
The space will also include an area for parents to sit or for families bringing their own food. m ini m inds also plans to sell snacks and coffee. For the play area, m igliacci said her goal is to combine fun with learning and connection.
“ my goal for mini minds is to build a place where play meets development, and where kids can grow, friendships can form [and] families can feel connected. It’s more than just a play space. I really just want to turn it into a community where locals can come here, hang out, know their kids are safe and they’re playing in a clean atmosphere,” she said. “We’re focusing a lot on purposeful play — everything here encourages kids to learn while having fun. o ur activities are designed to spark curiosity and social skills.”
To help bring that vision to life, mini minds will have staff on hand to
A sneak preview of Mini Minds Playtime, opening this month in Galloway. Photos courtesy of Danielle Migliacci.
encourage purposeful play and guide activities throughout the day.
“We’ll have staff here kind of playing with them as well and teaching them and having them just play on their own and in groups,” she said. “We’re building a warm community-center space that parents can enjoy, too.”
Looking ahead, m ini m inds will host family-friendly events such as a workshop where kids can decorate their own North Pole mailbox for Santa letters on Dec. 6 and breakfast with Santa on Dec. 14. more themed parties, character visits, tea parties and other interactive events are also in the works.
All play sessions include unlimited play for the day, meaning families can head home, squeeze in a nap or lunch, and return later. Children 8
months and under are $5 or free with a sibling. Admission for ages 9 months to 8 years is $20 plus tax. A sibling discount is offered at $11 plus tax.
m ini m inds offers discounted pricing for mommy or daddy groups of five or more children over 9 months at $15 per child, plus 10% off snacks and beverages. The play space also offers monthly memberships starting at $65 and birthday party packages.
Families are encouraged to reserve play sessions in advance, which can be booked online. To rSvP for the event on Nov. 15, email hello@ minimindsplaytime.com. Learn more at minimindsplaytime.com or on Instagram at minimindsnj.
Madison Russ is an awardwinning journalist, copy editor and adjunct professor of communication based in Atlantic County. An Ocean City native, Madison is passionate about telling stories that matter to locals, often spotlighting nonprofits and exploring the area's vibrant arts scene.
Flower farm blooms in every season
By Tammy Thornton
hile others are putting their gardens to bed for the year, Norah Langweiler, of Naked Flower Farm, has no intention of stopping anytime soon, since she is cultivating a garden that embraces each season. This specialty cut flower farm, situated on one acre in egg Harbor Township, gives small but mighty vibes, as sole proprietor Langweiler has big plans to turn the farm into a permaculture food forest. Her locally grown flowers are meant to be enjoyed by the local consumer, bred for their over-the-top ruffles and nostalgic fragrance.
For the fall, Langweiler has been focused on her heirloom chrysanthemums, which are bred to put on a show. Langweiler loves flowers that feel a little old-fashioned and are full of head-turning drama. Some of her
flowers are grown using a technique called disbudding, a type of pruning that removes small side buds from a stem, and leaves one main central bud. This allows the plant to direct its energy into one bloom, resulting in a showy, healthy flower that will have a long-lasting vase life. Langweiler originally grew the chrysanthemums from cuttings, and the mature plants now grow happily in their hoop house. Harvested at their peak, the heirloom mums are arranged with other plants and flowers grown on the farm and sold in bouquets. Going full circle, Naked Flower Farm has made cuttings of the mature plants, and these can also be purchased to enjoy the unique, heirloom chrysanthemums in your own garden.
tice permaculture gardening, which is a sustainable approach to gardening that works with nature instead of against it. Permaculture principles also make use of space as efficiently as possible. o nce established, a well-designed permaculture can save time and become self-sustainable. Saving time will come in handy as Langweiler, the busy mom of a three-yearold daughter, continues to grow her business while keeping up with her enthusiastic garden helper, her sweet pup millie (short for Chamomile).
As the chapter closes on mum bouquets, Langweiler plans to experiment with interplanting the mums with ranunculus corms in the hoop house. And just when you thought her work was finished, this will culminate in tulipomania, as she plans to plant a record 4,000 tulip bulbs in her raised beds. In spring, she will be able to sell flower bunches and bouquets from her massive stock of ranunculus, tulips, anemones, and peonies. The farm also offers spring flower bouquet subscriptions. Langweiler loves to experiment in the garden to see what works and increase her knowledge. most recently, she is learning, in her own words, “more about developing sustainable and edible landscapes,” and “creating spaces that mimic natural biodiversity and ecosystems and finding ways to incorporate my needs as a flower farmer with the needs of my local animals and insects. Ultimately, in addition to cut flowers for sale, I want to produce perennial, low-impact food for my family and community.”
Looking ahead to a stress-free holiday, Naked Flower Farm is offering a “before black Friday sale,” so that customers can relax with their families and enjoy Thanksgiving. The sale runs from Nov. 14 to 21, and will offer a discount on flower subscriptions. The farm will also sell its own tulip bulbs from Nov.
22-24, just in time for planting. For more information, check out their website at Nakedflowerfarm.com.
Naked Flower Farm is also home to a miniature orchard of apple, pear, and peach trees, with neighboring blackberries and other edible perennials, including a perennial pomegranate tree. Langweiler’s goal is to prac-
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
Norah Langweiler, owner of Naked Flower Farm, enjoys some time with her flowers in the hoop house. Photo credit: Emma from Moments by Moonbird.
Unique heirloom chrysanthemums from Naked Flower Farm. Photo credits: Emma from Moments by Moonbird.
hile the mild fall weather may not feel like the holidays just yet, the margate business Association (mbA) is already in the spirit and gearing up for a festive weekend celebrating local businesses and community cheer.
The annual Shop Small and ASL Santa Parade, sponsored by bocca Coal Fired b istro, highlights the black Friday and national Shop Small weekend. Local businesses throughout margate will offer great sales and discounts and all weekend long. The highlight of the festivities will be the ASL Santa Parade on Saturday, Nov. 29 at noon, as Santa, who communicates in American Sign Language (ASL) and verbally, travels down ventnor Avenue to greet families and spread holiday joy.
gate City Police and Fire Departments, and make his way to bocca Coal Fired bistro at essex Avenue. riding in his beach patrol sleigh with his dedicated elf, ASL Santa will meet and sign with guests upon arrival. The parade will feature the m ainland Cheerleaders performing in front of bocca, where USA DJ will lead holiday sing-alongs as Santa and his holiday friends greet families and pose for photos.
Along ventnor Avenue from Douglas to e ssex Avenues, guests can enjoy entertainment, games and giveaways from USA DJ, try their luck at the Sustainable margate Prize Wheel, play cornhole and grab special coupons from Nacho Taco.
Santa will begin his journey at Coolidge Avenue, escorted by the mar-
Inside bocca, families are invited to enjoy a free slice of pizza and soda, meet and sign with ASL Santa, enjoy free Wawa cookies and visit the JCC and mbA craft stations. east Coast Fairy Hair will also be available for
purchase inside bocca.
b eginning at noon on Saturday, Nov. 29, shoppers can join the mbA Holiday Scavenger Hunt, featuring small holiday gift boxes hidden outside local businesses — each containing a coupon or prize. b usinesses are encouraged to offer sidewalk sales and special promotions throughout the weekend.
Shoppers can also take a selfie outside their favorite margate business and email it to info@margatehasmore.com for a chance to win prizes. Winners will be announced on m onday, Dec. 1.
Children are invited to drop off their letters to Santa in the Santa’s mailbox, located in bocca’s foyer from Nov. 28 through Dec. 5.
The parade lineup will include: margate City Police and Fire Departments, the US Naval Sea Cadet Corps – Atlantic City Division, the margate mayor and Commissioners, Lucy the elephant, Atlantic County Utilities Authority “Supercan,” Atlantic County Toys for Kids, miss New Jersey belle Nicholas, mainland Cheerleaders, and beloved holiday characters including Frosty, Stitch, Tigger, the Grinch, the Longport Fire Department and, of course, ASL Santa and his elf.
This inclusive and family-friendly celebration supports m argate’s vibrant business community while promoting accessibility and connection through ASL Santa’s participation and outreach to the hearing-impaired community.
12:28 6:04 7:07 6:55 4:36 1:28 7:12 6:56 4:36 3:32 9:30 9:46 6:58 4:35 5:02 6:12 6:54 4:36
8:23 2:31 8:55 8:02 6:57 4:35
The National Dog Show: A Thanksgiving tradition and family-friendly event
By Heidi Clayton
For some, Thanksgiving Day means nonstop football on television, but in this house, it’s National Dog Show Day! For the last 23 years, the Philadelphia Kennel Club has teamed up with N bC to film the National Dog Show, which airs on Thanksgiving Day right after the legendary macy’s Parade. While the broadcast is aired on Thanksgiving, the actual show will happen and be filmed on Saturday, Nov. 15, and the public is encouraged to attend. If you love dogs or want a family-friendly event for the kids, the National Dog Show is the event for you. A short ride to The Greater Philadelphia e xpo Center in oaks, Pennsylvania, will have you in dog heaven in no time. There are 1,994 dogs
entered, representing 207 different breeds, and they are all available for you to meet and greet. every breed from the large Irish Wolfhound to the tiny Chihuahua will be on hand, ready and willing to be worshiped by the public. If you like Chihuahuas, there will be 18 long-coated ones and 16 smooth-coated ones there for you to dote upon. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live with
the most popular dog in the country, the French bulldog, 24 of them will be there, as well as their breeders, who can talk to you about what they are like to live with and what a good Frenchie is. If you have never heard of, let alone seen, a Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-its-queentli or “xolo” for short), there will be 16 of them there for you to meet.
Aside from petting beautiful dogs all day, there will be plenty of other things to do there. You can watch dogs in action doing agility, catching frisbees, and doing trick demonstrations. The public is invited to watch group judging, which is filmed for Thanksgiving Day and leads to b est in Show. In addition, there are vendors galore, like my dogs’ personal favorite, White Dog bone, which has every dog treat known to man, and my personal favorite, macKenzie Dog Collars. The
Philadelphia Kennel Club also donates a tremendous amount of money to local Philadelphia-based dog rescues, and many of those organizations are on hand with available dogs. You could also easily run into the show's hosts, N bC Sportscaster mary Carillo, David Frei, and John o ’Hurley of “Seinfeld” fame. Last year, my puppy, Kabuki, filmed a segment for the show with mary, and we had a blast.
Last year, a pug named vito won b est in Show. I think this year the competition is in the Terrier Group between a Scottish Terrier named b eatrice and Faith, the Sealyham Terrier.
The e xpo Center is located at 100 Station road, oaks, PA, 19456. The show starts at 8 a.m.
Dogs are natural therapists, and a visit to The National Dog Show is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face! If you make it to the show, stop by and say hi to my white bull terrier, Kabuki. She lives to meet and greet!
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.
Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https:// fouronthefloordogtraining.net
Sweater Weather Is Library Weather
What’s happening in Ocean City:
Winterfest By The Sea kicks off holiday season
The o cean City r egional Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to get in the spirit of the holidays at the fifth annual Winterfest by The Sea Holiday Shopping extravaganza from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 at the o cean City Civic Center.
The event includes festive local craft and food vendors and an opportunity to find unique gifts for everyone on your list. Special “Frozen” guests will spread some holiday magic, and a strolling Santa will greet families.
Free parking is available in the boardwalk lot adjacent to the Civic Center and accessible from Fifth Street.
tion and registration details, call 609398-9500 ext. 4 or visit hsocnj.org.
NOV. 28 — Christmas in the Downtown – “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue”: o ne of the highlights of the season, this annual event will give everyone a chance to celebrate “ black Friday” ocean City-style from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 28. Join the local merchants and the Chamber in kicking off an old-fashioned downtown Christmas, culminating at 5 p.m. with the arrival of Santa Claus and the tree-lighting. This year’s celebration will conclude with a holiday-themed drone light show in the sky over Asbury Avenue, starting at approximately 5:15 p.m.
More November events
NOV. 22 — “Earlier than the Bird” Downtown Shopping Extravaganza: everyone is invited to shop in their pajamas for early bird shopping specials along downtown Asbury Avenue on the weekend before Thanksgiving from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 22.
NOV. 22, 28, 29, 30 — Free Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: These will start for the season from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, with boarding at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue. They will continue during the same hours on Nov. 28, 29 and 30, then on weekends in December.
NOV. 27 — Fast & Furriest 5K Turkey Trot: The o cean City Humane Society’s annual event is set for Thanksgiving morning on the ocean City boardwalk. For more informa -
NOV. 29 — Ocean City Pops Holiday Show: This concert at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, will feature classic Christmas song favorites and modern hits, led by conductor vince Lee, and showcasing the o cean City Pops Festival Chorus. The show is at the ocean City m usic Pier. Tickets are available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice, by visiting any Welcome Center or by calling 609-399-6111.
NOV. 29-30 — Santa Claus: St. Nick will visit with children and be available for photos on weekends starting Nov. 29 and 30. He will be downtown at mark Soifer Park (Ninth Street and Asbury Avenue) from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., then outside the music Pier from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. mark your calendars for the annual Christmas Parade on Asbury Avenue at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5. registration information for participants is available at ocnj.us/christmas-parade
Margate honors local heroes in first veterans tribute
Margate held its first-ever Salute to o ur veterans ceremony Sunday at the Promenade, honoring service members from all branches of the military.
m ayor m ichael Collins, joined by Commissioners m aury b lumberg and John Horn, welcomed veterans and their families for a heartfelt tribute recognizing their dedication and sacrifice. Congressman Jeff van
Also in attendance were Assemblywoman Claire Swift and Assemblyman Don Guardian, who commended margate for its commitment to honoring those who have served.
Drew delivered remarks, and retired Superior Court Judge James Savio shared stories of decorated veterans who have served the nation with distinction.
The city unveiled its new banner Hero Program, featuring banners along the Promenade and Amherst Avenue that display the names and photos of local veterans.
Special recognition was given to Judge Savio, the m argate City Fire and Police Departments, Public Works, and Anthony edge for organizing the event. The ceremony was followed by a fundraiser at the margate Log Cabin to support veterans’ initiatives.
809 C entral Ave Ocean City, NJ Sallie J Godfrey, Manager • NJ Lic. No. 3898 609-399-0077
644 South Shore Rd. Palermo, NJ John K. Baltz, Manager • NJ Lic No. 3715 609-390-9699
4008 English Creek Ave. • Egg Harbor Twp., NJ Herber t L Godfrey II, Manager • NJ Lic. No. 4362 609-241-6460
Photos by Tom Briglia
Lux Studio NJ is raising eyebrows in Linwood
Business Buzz By Rich Baehrle
Stacy Davis, who recently opened Lux Studio NJ at 524 maple Ave. in Linwood, is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. From the moment I walked in the door, I knew she had a special business. I had previously been in the space when it was a law office. b ut Stacy, and her husband and Adam, have transformed it into a stunning, relaxing women’s personal care center.
When cancer patients undergo chemotherapy or radiation, hair loss – including eyebrows – is a common side effect. The change in appearance can be traumatic to women who are already suffering through the discomfort of treatment, and the uncertainty of their future well-being.
Stacy offers a compassionate and professional solution, restoring natural-looking brows through precise cosmetic tattooing for women affected by cancer and other medical conditions.
She grew up in Trenton, where she attended Trenton High School. In her early 20s, she moved to South Jersey and eventually settled in ventnor. Not long after, she discovered the welcoming community of Somers Point,
which she now proudly calls home.
She attended Atlantic Cape Community College and Stockton University, but was ultimately drawn to cosmetology. Stacy received her professional training at the Atlantic County vocational School, now known as the Atlantic County Institute of Technology.
Stacy employed her cosmetology skills as a hairdresser for 10 years along with offering the service of eyelash extensions. During this period of time, her cousin was diagnosed with breast cancer.
She realized what a traumatic impact it was for her cousin to not only lose her hair, but just as importantly, her eyebrows. Witnessing this difficult, life-changing experience opened the door for Stacy to change paths and start on a new career as a permanent eyebrow tattoo specialist.
It is a service that requires precise, extensive training, especially when you are dealing with delicate health concerns. Her passion for precision and artistry led her to train under Hoi Kwan, a well-known master instructor in the field of permanent makeup and eyebrow tattooing.
At the end of the day Stacy said, “ my reward is when I see the smiles on the faces of my clients when they see how beautiful they look and feel after the procedure.” She is proud to say that she has performed well over 200 procedures.
The Lux Studio opened in early o ctober. The décor is professional yet relaxing to assure clients feel comfortable.
In addition to Stacy’s service, she
has teamed up with other associates to offer a full-service, one-stop pampering facility for women. There is makeup artist Lyllian rodriguez, who offers her skills to give women the look they want for those special occasions. If they want a relaxing facial and massage, they can get that, too, from KellyAnn Flaherty. There are two more rooms that will eventually be occupied by other synergistic services for women who want to escape, treat and pamper themselves.
When Stacy is not helping women in her business, she enjoys quiet time at home with her husband, Adam, and their three dogs. She said, “I find
enjoyment in helping with rescue dogs and helping when I can with various charity organizations such as Atlantic County Women’s Shelter and other charities.” Her compassion was evident throughout our interview.
If you are encountering a medical condition where you would consider permanent tattoos, or if you want to pamper yourself with other services, Lux Studio is a smart choice.
You can call for an appointment at 609-338-2850, or check out the website www.stacyink.com.
You are also invited to an official grand opening 4-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at 524 m aple Ave., in Linwood. There will be a ribbon cutting at 6:30 p.m.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
of the month
Stacy Davis restores natural-looking brows through precise cosmetic tattooing for women affected by cancer and other medical conditions. Photo credit: stacyink.pmu on Instagram
Ocean City community gathers to honor Veterans at annual ceremony
On Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m., the community gathered inside the o cean City Tabernacle to honor local residents who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The annual veterans Day ceremony, hosted by the City of ocean City, brought together veterans, families, and community members in a moving tribute of gratitude and remembrance.
m ayor Jay Gillian, along with members of City Council, extended heartfelt thanks to all who have served. The program included patriotic music, remarks from local officials, and reflections from veterans representing different branches of the military. Attendees were invited to pause in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending freedom.
The event’s timing—on the 11th
hour of the 11th day of the 11th month—served as a powerful reminder of the moment the First World War ended in 1918, giving rise to the national day of remembrance now known as veterans Day.
Following the ceremony, guests were encouraged to meet and thank the veterans in attendance, sharing stories that celebrated courage, service, and community pride.
Photos by Marcella Curcio
Spectacular early holiday events you don't want to miss
By Delaney Crawford
As autumn deepens, the weather stays chilly and the boardwalks quiet slightly, the Jersey Shore embraces a beautiful transitional season. From winery markets to early-holiday kick-offs, November delivers a mix of things to do across Atlantic and Cape m ay counties. Whether you’re in the mood for family-friendly outings or opportunities to get your holiday shopping done, there’s something for everyone.
Here are five top-notch events happening this November that you won’t want to miss:
1. Winterfest By The Sea (Nov. 15, Ocean City)
The annual Winterfest by the Sea is almost here in o cean City. It's the
perfect time to start your Christmas shopping and stroll through this great shore town. The event, located in the o cean City Civic Center, promises shopping, community connections and the salty air all around. For more information, visit https://visitnj.org/ nj-events/winterfest-sea-0.
2. Christmas Fantasy with Lights (Nov. 15, Egg Harbor Township)
As we all know, Storybook Land brings the magic of Christmas time to life inside its park, making it a muststop venture this, and every, holiday season. The holiday magic is coming quickly as the park will light up the skies and kids' hearts starting this Saturday, Nov. 15. Santa will wave his magic wand and light up the park every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Christmas.
3. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Nov. 22, Cape May)
You won’t want to miss the official tree-lighting kickoff at the emlen Physick estate in Cape may, paired with early holiday festivities. Families will appreciate the festive atmosphere in the air and the free admission. Local businesses benefit
from the Christmas ceremony too, thanks to increased foot traffic and photo-ops. Cape m ay truly comes alive during the holiday season, and this is the perfect opportunity to see that magic for yourself. For more information, visit the Cape may mAC website: https://capemaymac.org/ experience/christmas-in-cape-may/ holiday-tree-lighting-ceremony/.
4. Christmas in the Downtown: “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue” (Nov. 28, Ocean City)
Step onto Asbury Ave as it becomes the place where Christmas comes to town. enjoy this old-fashioned Downtown Christmas spectacle full of community, lights, laughter, and even carriage rides through the city. m ake sure to stay all day because Santa Claus stops over at 5 p.m.!
5. Dickens Festival (Nov. 29-30, Smithville)
right at the cusp of the holiday season, this festival brings victorian-era charm to life with costumed characters, holiday shopping and street music. It’s a great way to slide into the holiday spirit, but still feel seasonal rather than full-blown Christmas. And what better spot to start getting into the holiday spirit than in our lovely historic Smithville? Stay all day and into the night to experience their annual Christmas celebration, with the return of the holiday lights show and tree lightings. See the following website for details: https://historicsmithvillenj.com/56dicken-s-fest.
Fall at the shore brings a shift to fewer crowds, but unique events. The mix of event options gives locals and part-timers alike reasons to linger a little longer into the season. For families, there are kid-friendly options. For local explorers, the festivals and artisan markets hit just right.
If you’re hoping to indulge in one or two, or all, of these great November events, here are a few things to be mindful of!
Dress in layers: Coastal November weather can swing from sunny and mild to crisp and breezy.
Check online ahead: Some events may require tickets or registration. Parking and transit: Historic towns like Cape may can get busy. Arrive early or consider off-site parking. Extend your outing: many events are paired with dining or lodging options.
Mind the calendar: Some events span multiple days.
Whether you’re strolling through a tree-lighting ceremony or shopping at a seasonal market, November along the shore is rich with possibility. For locals looking to make the most of their season, these events deliver both ambiance and enjoyment you won’t want to miss.
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.
Local boxers earn wins at Tropicana
By David Weinberg
Aloud and vocal crowd nearly filled the Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic City last Friday night, excited to watch four local fighters in action on Larry Goldberg’s sixth boxing Insiders Promotions card on the boardwalk.
Atlantic City super-welterweight Justin Figueroa, Somers Point heavyweight Josh Popper, Pleasantville super-lightweight Julio Sanchez III and Smithville heavyweight bruce Seldon Jr. all had sizeable cheering sections.
With popularity, however, comes pressure to succeed. Fans show up hoping to see their favorite boxer get their hands raised in victory or at the very least give a respectable performance.
“I had some prefight jitters because it’s my first time fighting in Atlantic City,” said Popper, a 2011 Holy
Spirit High School graduate who now lives in New York. “I have so many great memories of Atlantic City and it’s great to be fighting in front of my family and friends.”
All four fighters gave their fans what they wanted by earning victories.
Sanchez (3-1, 2 Ko s), a former basketball player at Atlantic City and
Pleasantville high schools, delivered the most impressive effort.
The 24-year-old affirmed his status as a rising prospect with a second-round TKo over mike randolph (2-7, 1 Ko), of Fort madison, Iowa. because Sanchez was fighting in the walk-out bout – the 10th and final fight that occurred after the main event – some fans had already left.
Those that stayed saw Sanchez earn the most convincing win of the night.
He jolted r andolph with a straight right midway through second round, then connected with a left hook while randolph was on his way to the canvas. That prompted referee David Franciosi to stop the fight at 2 minutes, 28 seconds.
Holy Spirit grads Popper and Figueroa both remained undefeated with solid wins.
Popper (5-0, 5 Ko s), 31, posted a third-round TKo over Trevor Kotara (4-5-1, 1 Ko), of Gilbert, Arizona. It marked the first time in his short career that Popper had to go more than the first round.
He scored a knockdown in the second round, then dropped Kotara again in the third. Kotara beat the count, but was wobbly on his feet, which caused referee ricky Gonzalez to stop it.
“It was a dream come true to fight here,” Popper said. “I’ve been waiting so long for this. I wasn’t ecstatic about my performance, but I felt like it was a learning lesson. You don’t learn much from the first-round knockouts.
↘Continued on 38
Smithville heavyweight Bruce Seldon Jr., at right
This was the first time I got to see the stool (between rounds).”
Figueroa (14-0, 11 Ko s) was extended a bit, but finally caught up to Uruguay’s Jose Perdomo (9-8, 5 Kos) to win via TKo at the end of the fourth round.
Figueroa, 26, tried to press the action in the first three and a half rounds while Perdomo circled the ring.
He finally caught up to him near the end of the fourth and dropped him with a left hook.
“We were doing a ‘Tom and Jerry’ (Cat and m ouse) thing for a while,” Figueroa said. “I guess he thought he could move around and maybe let me swing myself out or something like that. but I took my time and got the stoppage.”
Perdomo beat the count and returned to his corner after the round. When the bell sounded to start the fifth, however, he remained rooted to his stool, prompting Figueroa to break into his celebratory “worm” dance across the canvas.
“I wasn’t surprised (he stayed in the corner) because I knew he was hurt,” Figueroa said. “If he came out for the fifth, I knew it would be dangerous.”
Seldon (8-0, 6 Kos) had the most challenging fight, but in some ways,
he gained the most from the effort.
After registering three straight first-round knockouts, the 31-yearold was forced to go the six-round distance with gritty, experienced Jose medina (8-2-1, 3 Kos), from Lake Wales, Florida by way of Puerto rico. m edina used combinations and quick combinations to offset Seldon’s power at times, but Seldon pressed the action and landed enough big punches to earn a unanimous decision.
Judges mark Consentino, Glenn Feldman and Paul Wallace all scored
it 59-55 while I had it 58-56.
“I learned more from this fight than I did in any of my previous fights,” Seldon said. “ m y last fight lasted 53 seconds and this time I went six rounds. I’m not happy with my performance, but I’m happy I got the W and I’m still undefeated. This performance wakes me up.”
Four local football teams vying for South Jersey titles
Atlantic City High School heads the list of four local football teams
vying for South Jersey football championships this weekend. The vikings, the top seed in Group 5, routed Toms river North 42-0 last weekend and will play host to third-seeded Kingsway regional Friday at 6 p.m.
millville, the second seed in Group 4, defeated Northern burlington 42-0 last weekend and will take on top-seeded Winslow Township on Saturday at 12 p.m.
Local rivals Cedar Creek and m ainland regional will square off in the Group 3 title game on Saturday at Cedar Creek.
m ainland rallied to beat b urlington Township 15-13 last week while Cedar Creek edged Pleasantville 15-12.
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.
Holy Spirit grad Justin Figueroa
Lucy the Elephant 1881
Entertainment & Dining at the Shore
Top Weekly Entertainment Picks
By Steffen Klenk
The cooler weather is settling in, and we’ve found some amazing events to warm up to this weekend. From holiday shopping and tree lightings to live music and local comedy, there is so much happening throughout our region. read all about it in the Top Weekly entertainment Picks.
What : Christmas Fantasy With Lights
Where: Storybook Land When : Nov. 15-Dec. 31
Website: www.storybookland.com
The magic of the season comes to life at Storybook Land this weekend as the park officially opens its Christmas Fantasy With Lights. Santa will make his appearance and, with a wave of his magic wand, will transform the park into a winter wonderland with over 1 million lights. Celebrate the magic of the season with family and friends. Tickets can be purchased online.
What : Tanger Holiday Tree Lighting Where: Tanger o utlets Atlantic City When : Friday, Nov. 14
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Website: www.tanger.com/atlanticcity/events/18225
The magic of the holiday season comes to life this Friday at Tanger
o utlets. Families can enjoy an evening of giveaways and surprises, along with festive music, delicious treats, face painting, jugglers, balloon artists and a festive atmosphere. The evening will unfold with a tree lighting at Plaza No. 2.
Who: Sting
Where: borgata event Center
When : Friday, Nov. 14 and Saturday, Nov. 15
Time: 8 p.m.
Website : https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/ event-center/sting.html
From the release of his first solo album in 1985, Sting has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, oscars, emmy
Awards and Golden Globe Awards. o ver three decades later, Sting continues to sell out shows and make a significant impact in the music industry. See the rock ‘n’ roll Hall of Fame inductee on stage in Atlantic City this weekend for his 3.0 Tour.
Who : b orn to r un Down the Dream
Where : Josie Kelly’s Public House
When : Friday, Nov. 14
Time: 8 p.m.
Website : www.josiekellys.com/event/ born-to-run-downthe-dream-8/
Join Josie Kelly’s for a full revue celebrating two of the most iconic American songwriters of all time. This all-star band will perform the best hits by b ruce Springsteen and Tom Petty live in the Adare ballroom. Doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is free and is open to ages 21+.
What : Winterfest by the Sea
Where: ocean City Civic Center
When : Saturday, Nov. 15
Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Website: www.oceancityvacation. com/events-calendar/winterfest-bythe-sea-3/
The o cean City Chamber of Commerce will host its Fifth Annual Winterfest by the Sea Holiday Gift and Craft Show. This one-day holiday shopping extravaganza welcomes dozens of craft vendors and amazing food. Santa and Tom Turkey will also be strolling the event.
↘Continued on 42
Photo by Tom Briglia
Who: mike marino
Where: The Claridge Hotel
When : Saturday, Nov. 15
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Website : www.claridge.com/ events-promotions
m ike m arino, one of New Jersey’s most beloved comedians, is celebrated for his quick wit and down-
What : Freestyle Free for All
Where: Hard rock Live at etess Arena
When : Saturday, Nov. 15
Time: 8 p.m.
Website : https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ freestyle-free-for-all
Get ready for a night of nostalgia and rhythm in Atlantic City this Saturday. Dance the night away with some of the most iconic freestyle artists of all time, headlined by TKA and George Lamond. Plus, check out performances by Leslie m elendez, Judy Torres, Coro, Sweet Sensation, C- b ank, rockell and more. This concert is a must-see for fans of classic freestyle and ’90s dance music.
to-earth humor. His stand-up performances regularly sell out throughout the state and this one-night show on Saturday is anticipated to attract a large local audience.
What : retro Saturdays
Where: Golden Nugget Atlantic City
When : Saturdays
Time: 9 p.m.
Website : www. goldennugget.com/ atlantic-city/nightlife/the-wave/saturdays-at-the-wave
Head to The Wave inside Golden Nugget every Saturday night to hear your favorite retro hits. Grab your
friends and enjoy a celebration of all genres of music from m otown and disco to country and rock. This week, hear run Down romeo live on stage. Admission is free.
What : Power and Glory Fight Night
Where: Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall
When : Saturday, Nov. 15
Time: 7 p.m.
Website: www.boardwalkhall.com/ events/detail/power-and-glory-fightnight
edmond Productions will present an electrifying evening of professional boxing at boardwalk Hall. Some of
the most promising fighters in the sport will come together for a night of good competition, entertainment and community pride. The event will be headlined by a flyweight match as New Jersey’s own Anthony Johns takes on b rooklyn’s Khalid Twaiti.
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.
CIRCLE LIQUOR STORE
HEROtini Mocktail Challenge names Tropicana and Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall top winners
Tropicana Atlantic City and the Tennessee Avenue beer Hall were the big winners of the H ero tini mocktail Challenge at the award night held
Thursday, o ct. 30 at Harbor Pines Golf Club.
With a total gift of $10,247 Tropicana won the Chairman’s Award as the top casino entry in the summer-
Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall - First place, bars and taverns. Vince D’Alessandro from OceanFirst Bank with Tennessee Beer Hall partners Sal Spena and Mark Callazzo, winners of the First Place HEROtini Cup
Tropicana Atlantic City - First place, casinos. Tropicana Food and Beverage Supervisor Kathleen Renda, Atlantic City Region Human Resources Vice President Michael Pompei and Tropicana Senior Vice President and General Manager Joseph Giunta accept the Chairman’s Award for their $10,247 first place contribution in the Casino Division.
long competition to find the most popular non-alcoholic mocktails for designated drivers.
Tennessee Avenue b eer Hall raised $6,547 to take top honors in
NOVEMBER SPECIALS 2 COURSE MENU
CHOICE OF SO UP OR S AL A D
BACON WRAPPED TURKEY 22
Roasted turkey wrapped in crispy bacon with sides of stu ng and sweet mash topped in gravy.
GARLIC HERB SALMON 24
Wild-caught salmon smothered in garlic and herb butter served with garlic smashed potatoes and sautéed broccoli rabe.
FLOUNDER FRANCAISE 25
Egg and cheese battered flounder served over fresh fettuccine in a white wine lemon garlic sauce.
CHICKEN FRANCAISE 18
Egg and cheese battered chicken served over fresh fettuccine in a white wine lemon garlic sauce.
BACON WRAPPED MEATLOAF 24
Classic meatloaf wrapped in crispy bacon served over grilled asparagus and garlic smashed potatoes and topped with mushroom gravy.
SPINACH RAVIOLI ALFREDO 20
Ricotta stu ed spinach ravioli in a cheesy cream sauce.
CREAMY PESTO SHRIMP 24
Jumbo shrimp served over fresh fettuccine in a creamy pesto sauce.
CHICKEN ALFREDO 20
Tender grilled chicken breast served over fresh fettuccine in a cheesy cream sauce.
SUNDAY & MONDAY
Early Bird Special 4-6pm 3 Course Meal 25
TUESDAY 12 oz PRIME RIB 25
the bar and tavern division among 24 participating establishments. The mocktail contest raised an overall total of $48,000 for the John r elliott H ero Campaign and its
NOW OPEN DAILY 7AM-9PM
SPAGHETTI FRIDAY House made meatballs 22
mission to prevent drunk driving.
Gourmet Italian Cuisine took second place and Harpoons on the bay third place among bars and taverns. Harrah’s took second place and Caesars third place in the casino division.
In the “ b est Tasting m ocktail” competition, Tennessee Avenue beer Hall took first place in the Judge’s Choice category, Shay’s restaurant came in second and Dock’s o yster House took third. In the People’s Choice category, Shay’s took the top prize, Josie Kelly’s Public House was second and Tennessee Avenue beer Hall was third.
The New Jersey Casino reinvestment Development Authority and other area business sponsors also contributed to the contest, held between July and october.
“We are excited to receive this award as recognition of Tropicana's commitment to the H ero Campaign and its life-saving mission,” said Joseph Giunta, Tropicana Atlantic City’s senior vice president and general manager. “This contribution was the result of our summer promotion that invited Tropicana guests to dedicate a portion of their winnings to the charity in support of the casino’s ‘Ginger Spice’ mocktail.”
“We and our Tennessee Avenue b eer Hall team are thrilled to have won top bar and tavern honors in
the H ero tini contest,” said Sal Spena, the bar’s general manager and partner. “And it’s all for a cause we support and believe in.”
b oth Tropicana and Tennessee Avenue b eer
Hall received large martini-glass-shaped H erotini trophies at an award ceremony held Thursday, o ct. 30 at Harbor Pines Golf Club in e gg Harbor Township. They also both won trips to attend future Phillies games next season
in a private suite donated by the Aramark food service company.
In addition to highway billboards, the H ero Campaign has wrapped more than 40 police department patrol cars with its blue and yellow symbol and its signature message: “ be a H ero b e a Designated Driver.” m ore than 100,000 motorists have taken the online H ero Pledge to be designated drivers for friends and family members.
Gourmet Italian Cuisine – Second place , bars and taverns. Debra Fox from AtlantiCare joins Matt Fox from Gourmet Italian Cuisine with Muriel and Bill Elliott
Harpoon’s – Third Place, bars and taverns. Patrick and Valerie Aiken with emcees Thomas Drayton and Whitney Ullman
Shay’s Restaurant – First place, People’s Choice Best Tasting Mocktail. Shay’s Restaurant Manager Patrick Lizza with Thomas Drayton and Whitney Ullman
See Sting sing at Borgata Hotel Casino this weekend
Tune In, Turn On
With Doug Deutsch
Think about the numerous lead singers who fronted star bands, left their respective groups to go solo
and became even more successful.
Some names that immediately come to mind include Phil Collins, previously the drummer in the progrock band Genesis; late metal rocker ozzy o sbourne, formerly of b lack Sabbath; hip-hop star b eyoncé, formerly of Destiny’s Child; and guitar great eric Clapton, who was a member of both The Yardbirds and Cream prior to going solo.
Add the name Gordon matthew Thomas Sumner – otherwise known as Sting – to this impressive list.
After fronting the new-wave
trio The Police during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Sting, now 73, left the group in 1984 after their Synchronicity Tour. He released his first solo album in 1985, and the band officially broke up in 1986.
While The Police, who also included guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland, were massively successful in their time, a rift has recently emerged between Sting and his former bandmates. Summers and Copeland have sued Sting for allegedly not paying royalties or songwriting credits for the band’s hit, “ every breath You Take.” The case is ongoing.
Forty years and 17 Grammys later, the Sting 3.0 Tour comes to b orgata Hotel Casino’s event Center for two shows this Friday and Saturday, Nov. 14 and 15. The show will feature Sting on lead vocals and bass, longtime collaborator Dominic m iller on guitar, and drummer Chris maas, also known for his time with mumford & Sons and maggie rogers.
4 to 9 p.m.
“ reviving an old tradition that dates back to 1973 felt like a big challenge,” said mariella Negro, community manager and music director at WLFr , told Tune In Turn o n via email.
Sting’s most recent studio album is “The bridge,” released in November 2021. The record marked the return of b ranford marsalis on saxophone and manu Katché on drums. Sting described it as being written “in a year of global pandemic, personal loss, separation, disruption, lockdown, and extraordinary social and political turmoil.” His latest release is “Sting 3.0 Live,” a concert album issued in April 2025.
Some of Sting’s numerous solo hits he’s sure to perform include “If I ever Lose my Faith In You,” “ m essage in a bottle,” “ englishman in New York,” and this writer’s personal favorite, “If You Love Somebody Set Them Free.”
These promise to be two fantastic nights of music by one of today’s top music performers. The Sting 3.0 Tour comes to the borgata event Center, Friday-Saturday, Nov. 14-15, 1 borgata Way, Atlantic City.
Tickets/info: https://borgata. mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/ event-center/sting.html
Tune-Ups
Stockton University’s Lake Fred Folk Fest Returns: Good news continues to emanate from Stockton University. The Lake Fred Folk Fest, which first took place back in 1973, is being revived Tuesday, Nov. 18 in the Campus Center Coffee House, from
“Thankfully, having the support and enthusiasm of our students has been a huge help. We’re hoping this event can encourage the community to stay connected with WLFr , and Stockton as a whole, and to showcase that Stockton’s history is a story that deserves to be told.”
Paige Cripps, WLFr DJ and one of the festival’s organizers, added, “I was inspired to revive the Lake Fred Folk Festival as a means of connecting alumni and the current Stockton and surrounding communities through the appreciation of folk music and local history. The lush, expansive history of New Jersey's Pine barrens and 91.7 WLFr ’s history serve as a backdrop for this event.”
Artists scheduled to appear include b rad Wilson, o rnamental, m osaic, and Starikova with special guest, viv verducci.
Info: https://stockton.edu/ events/2025/lake-fred-folk-festival. html
Wishing everyone a great weekend, and please support your local music scene.
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@ gmail.com
Photo by Tom Briglia
Let Me Be Frank Sinatra Jr. remembered by longtime manager,
music journalist
By Scott Cronick
Thirty-one years is a long time for any relationship. In the music business, it’s an eternity.
b ut 31 years wasn’t long enough for Andrea Kauffman, a respected, influential South Jersey music executive who personally managed Frank Sinatra, Jr., who may have lived in the biggest shadow of anyone in the history of music.
When Sinatra, Jr., died unexpectedly in 2016 at the age of 72, Kauffman didn’t lose a client, she lost a family member. She was shattered … still is.
And that’s why it took her 10 years to finally share her story, her memories, her life in “Let m e be Frank: The extraordinary Life and music of Frank Sinatra, Jr.” which was released by
University Press of m ississippi last month.
“When I went with Frank, it was kind of an ultimatum to some degree that you’ve got to put your efforts into me,” said Kauffman, who gave up working with other artists to concentrate on Sinatra, Jr. “Thirty-one years that was filled with Frank. every day I spoke to him. And not just, ‘Hey, how you doing?’ or, “Is there anything you need from me today?’ It was a conversation. And (his death) was tough, because he was a big presence in my life. every day. Some of the wounds have healed …”
m ost haven’t.
Kauffman knew it would be painful to excavate those memories, to go through the photos that are featured inside the book and to put all of those complex feelings into words, so she enlisted someone she knew could help her through the process.
enter b ruce Klauber, a longtime friend and associate of Kauffman, a respected music journalist and a columnist for Shore Local. He has written previous books about buddy rich and Gene Krupa, but a musician who knew Sinatra, Jr., well.
“What’s interesting was far as b ruce is concerned … one of the things that Frank adored about bruce was he had a musical background,” Kauffman said. “He knew the music. He could discuss arrangers. He could discuss drummers. There was nobody else that could sit with him and go one to one with him about music the way bruce could.”
Together, Kauffman and Klauber have created “Let m e be Frank,” an excellent biography about Sinatra, Jr., a singer, composter and actor — remember how stellar he was in “The Sopranos?” — whose incredibly successful career was always eclipsed by his father, who along with elvis and m ichael Jackson was arguably the most popular musician of all time.
“Let me be Frank” is the first book ever published about Sinatra, Jr., and there are no two better people to tackle the subject than Kauffman and Klauber, who don’t hold back and share intimate, never-before-known stories about the musical legend and how he dealt with professional struggles, personal demons and endless comparisons with his father to emerge as a thriving performer who finally made peace with the name “Sinatra.”
“Let m e b e Frank” talks about Sinatra, Jr.’s 1963 kidnapping, his notorious womanizing, his challenging relationship with his father and how he despised the comparisons and lost work because he refused to sing his father’s songs.
Bruce Klauber
b ut even though Klauber’s and Kauffman’s stories would be enough,
“Let m e b e Frank” delves much deeper, including more than 40 interviews with Sinatra, Jr’s friends, family and colleagues while offering an in-depth analysis of four decades of music, including recordings and live performances.
It was time
With the death of Sinatra, Jr. coming on 10 years in 2026, it seems timely to write a book, but this pro -
cess actually began four years ago as Kauffman struggled with the way his family did not celebrate his life. Upon Sinatra, Jr.’s death, there was no funeral or memorial service, something that still irks Kauffman today.
“Had he had some memorial, had his family gotten together and said, ‘Let’s do something so we can all have closure, celebrate him, get together one last time, I may not have written the book,” Kauffman said. “ but with the resistance from his sisters about not doing anything ... there wasn’t even a funeral, right? Not a funeral. As a matter of fact, his ashes still remain in Tina’s closet, in his sister Tina’s closet. That was horrible, absolutely horrible. No memorial, nothing. We even said, let’s go to Capitol, where his father used to record. Frank recorded there. Let’s just all get together. Put his ashes on a desk. I don’t care. So, I needed to celebrate him somehow. Some closure.”
Sinatra, Jr. actually began to write his own autobiography. He got as far as Chapter 5 when he passed away. Kauffman possesses those chapters, and Klauber nicely incorporated some of that material in “Let m e be Frank.”
So, what took four years?
“It was difficult for me emotionally to sit down and think about it every
↘Continued on 50
day,” Kauffman said. “So, I would take periods. I needed space from it. I was mourning. And that was difficult. So, it took four years.”
Was it therapeutic in the long run?
“No,” Kauffman said with a smile. “No, shoot … you know, I really was hoping there would be some … I think to some degree it did help.”
No subject is off-limits for Kauffman in the book.
“I always called him Sinatra without the ring-a-ding-ding,” Kauffman said. “ but there was a time when he wore a pinky ring, he wore a pompadour, he smoked marlboros, he drank, everything happened between him
and his father. That’s in the book.”
So is Kauffman’s relationship with her late friend’s family.
“I never really ever talked about Tina and Nancy the way I do in the book,” Kauffman said. “And michael, his son, wrote a whole introduction for us. It is the first and only time that he has ever really publicly spoken about his father in this depth.”
o n Sinatra, Jr.’s ex-wife Cynthia m cm urry, who he was married to for about two years: “His wife just destroyed him financially. She took … she abused it — more than abused it — and he fought her and won his case in court 21 days after he died.
That’s in the book.”
Impressions of a legend
Klauber’s 40 interviews over 238 pages brought him some unbelievable knowledge and entertainment that he translates to the written page, but there was one thing that really stood out about the interview process.
“Almost, without fail, everyone that I spoke to — that we spoke to — by the end of the interview was in tears,” Klauber said. “That says something about the man.”
There are also a bunch of great photos Kauffman shared, including some with her and Sinatra, Jr., among them her favorite with President bill Clinton and a stunned-looking Sinatra, Jr.
“We did this benefit, and it was us and Tony b ennett and my Frank and bill Clinton,” Kauffman explained. “I was wearing a tuxedo, but it was just the jacket. No vest. No blouse underneath. No bra, but it was three
buttons. It was a little low for me … I usually dress a little more conservative, but this was more social than it was work. Clinton is talking to us, and he’s looking down my shirt the whole time. We’re about to take a picture, and Frank sees him looking and gets right between us.”
Kauffman and Klauber are proud of “Let m e be Frank,” and they should be. It’s a fantastic read whether you are a Sinatra, Jr. fan or not.
m ost importantly, Kauffman thinks her longtime friend and client would be happy she finished it.
“I think he probably, wherever he is, is going, ‘Yay, you did it, Andrea,’” she said. “‘You stuck it up their butts, meaning his sisters. Yay, you did it!’”
“Let m e be Frank” is available wherever you buy books online, including Amazon, and is also available locally at bAm — books-A- million — in mays Landing. For more information an special events, including an appearance Nov. 18 in ocean City, go to Let m e be Frank: The e xtraordinary Life and m usic of Frank Sinatra Jr. on Facebook or Letm ebeFrankbook. com.
Scott Cronick is an awardwinning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades. He hosts a daily radio show – "Off The Press with Scott Cronick" - 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com. He can be reached at scronick@ comcast.net.
Andrea Kauffman
The Capaldi & Newell Family
Daniel Brestle
Live & Local Music Calendar
Thursday, November 13
Atlantic City
Bar One at Resorts
Karaoke w/ DJ Joe
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1133 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Live DJ
8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Dane Anthony
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Not Leaving Sober
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
The Seed
o pen Jam hosted by CJ Sooy
6 p.m.
807 baltic Ave. Unit 4
Egg Harbor City
The Inn on St. Louis
Nolan Quinn
7 – 10 p.m.
446 St. Louis Ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Karaoke Night w/ DJ mike
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Doug Jennings
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway Gregory’s bob & vince
6 p.m.
900 Shore rd.
Josie Kelly’s
Toni Teschner & billy Walton
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Friday, November 14
Atlantic City
Bar One at Resorts
Tom & Kim
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Gary
9:15 p.m. – late 1133 boardwalk
Borgata B Bar
Jumper Trio. 9 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
1 borgata Way
Byrdcage
Piano bar with Nick myers
5 – 8 p.m.
3426 Atlantic Ave.
Council Oak at Hard Rock
mary Winkel Trio
6 – 10 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
No Standards
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Patty & bugzy Duo
7 p.m.
3am Tokyo
10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget billy Walton Duo
5 p.m.
Incognito
10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
The o riginal Copy
5 – 8:30 p.m.
The Cliffs
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
The Wave at Golden Nugget
Winslow: The eagles Tribute
9 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The West at Caesars
big Hix
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
2100 Pacific Ave.
Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino big bang baby
8:30 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
Steve & Joe of the m otts Creek Pickers
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
500 St. Andrews Dr.
Galloway
279 Social Jimmy brogan Duo
7 – 10 p.m.
279 S. New York rd.
Margate
Bocca
Jim Shaw
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Tuckahoe Inn
Jim Fisher. 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
1 Harbor rd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Will murray & Ava Faretra
4 – 7 p.m.
Hickstown road
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Doug Jennings. 6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s born to run Down the Dream
8 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Griffin House
7:30 p.m.
217 e main St.
Saturday, November 15
Atlantic City
Bar One at Resorts o ne Hot m ess
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Gary. 9:15 p.m. – late 1133 boardwalk
Borgata B Bar
Adam Holcombe Trio
6:30 – 10 p.m.
No Standards Trio
10:30 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Council Oak at Hard Rock minas Trio
6 – 10 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
Twisted Livin’
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 boardwalk ↘Continued on 54
DISCOVER THE ALL NEW
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Dami eldebs Duo. 7 p.m.
Sean Patrick & The Alibis. 10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Chris Yoder Trio. 5 p.m.
Cheers the band. 10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Dane Anthony band
5 – 8:30 p.m.
The benjamins
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
The Wave at Golden Nugget
run Down romeo. 9 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The West at Caesars
Gypsy Wisdom. 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
2100 Pacific Ave.
Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino
The Devlin band. 8:30 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Wyndham Skyline Tower
magic Comedy Hour feat. Joe Hol -
iday. 4 p.m. & 7 p.m.
100 S. North Carolina Ave.
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
beth Tinnon. 12 – 4 p.m.
72 N. bremen Ave.
Galloway
279 Social Lenahan Duo. 7 – 10 p.m.
279 S. New York rd.
Margate
Bocca
CJ Sooy
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 ventnor Ave.
Marmora
Tuckahoe Inn
marc Wass
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
1 Harbor rd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay radio revolution
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Doug Jennings
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s
The Turtleheads 9 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Live at the Fillmore Allman broth -
ers Tribute
3:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
217 e main St.
Sunday, November 16
Atlantic City
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Gypsy Joe vlado
5 – 9 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Dueling Pianos
8 p.m.
500 boardwalk
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Audio riot
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Suyat
8:30 – 11:30 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
The Dunns
12 – 4 p.m.
72 N. bremen Ave. Galloway 279 Social Joe Grasso
1 – 4 p.m.
279 S. New York rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Shemekia Copeland
7:30 p.m.
217 e main St.
Monday, November 17
Atlantic City
Byrdcage
m usic monday with Kelli Glover
7 – 10 p.m.
3426 Atlantic Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Sidearm
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Trivia Night w/ DJ bill
7 – 9 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Tuesday, November 18
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Patty & bugzy
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Dane Anthony band
7 – 11 p.m.
DJ Johnny Looch
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
m usic bingo w/ DJ Chris
7 – 9 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Josie Kelly’s
DJ Ken. 5 – 9 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Wednesday, November 19
Atlantic City
Anchor Rock Club
vinyl Wednesdays. 8 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Bar One at Resorts
DJ Gary
9:15 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1133 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
michael Stevens
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Kono Nation
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Egg Harbor City
The Inn on St. Louis Karaoke Night
7 – 10 p.m.
446 St. Louis Ave.
Margate
Bocca
Live Jazz by bob & The bocca boys
7 – 10 p.m.
7805 ventnor Ave.
Marmora Tuckahoe Inn
Danny eyer
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
1 Harbor rd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
o pen mic Night w/ blue eagle
7:30 – 11:30 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
Doug Jennings. 6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s
Jimmy brogan
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Events subject to change.
By Bruce Klauber
Vicki Gold Levi and the Latin Rhythms of Atlantic City
When it comes to all things Atlantic City, v icki Gold Levi is a force of nature as a historian, curator, cheerleader, author and writer about everything that has to do with the rich history of the “Queen of resorts.”
Levi, as it turns out, is also a major fan of Latin American music, particularly the many legendary Latin American orchestras that appeared in Atlantic City from the 1940s through the 1960s.
As a result of her enthusiasm, research and incredible collection of memorabilia, the Foundation of the Atlantic City Free Public Library will debut “Latin rhythms by the Sea” at Jim Whelan b oardwalk Hall on Wednesday, Nov. 19, as part of its
“The Atlantic City e xperience” exhibit. The event will include a free Latin pipe organ concert at noon, played on boardwalk Hall’s famed m idmer-Losh organ – the largest such organ in the world – by award-winning organist Luke Staisiunas.
Levi is much more than a fan with a good collection; she has been involved in every facet of this program. After presenting several Latin music-focused programs at Florida International University’s Wolfsonian m useum in miami beach, she was inspired to do something similar in Atlantic City.
As project director of “The Atlantic City e xperience” (the library’s history exhibit at boardwalk Hall) and chairwoman of the Foundation of the Atlantic City Free Public Library, she curated “Latin rhythms by the Sea” with the New York City-based design firm, Pure and Applied. This is a woman who does things right.
"Latin rhythms by the Sea” is an exhibition of singular and ultra-rare memorabilia related to the years when Latin American band-leading giants like Tito Puente, Noro morales, Xavier Cugat and Pedro Albani performed at the leading hotels on the boardwalk.
The influence of Latin American music and rhythms on American jazz is extensive. In the 1940s, bandleaders like Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Kenton adapted the rich Latin harmonies and rhythms to their music. When combined with jazz improvisation, the end result was an electrifying hybrid which is still played today.
and multi-instrumentalist Pedro Albani. Now relatively obscure, in his day he was a national name and quite influential in Latin American music.
Albani’s family came to Atlantic City in the late 1920s from New m exico, where, it is said in a biography written by his family, “he taught himself to play every musical instrument he could get his hands on.”
Albani was 17 years old when he arrived in Atlantic City in 1929, and it didn’t take him long before he became a force on the Latin music scene here in the ’40s and ’50s. His Latin bands played at all the big hotels on the boardwalk. His various orchestras – among them Pedro Albani’s rio rumba b and and The Islanders – performed at the Treasure Island room of the b rigantine Hotel, the Calypso Carousel room at the ritz-Carlton and the Carousel room at the m ayflower, as well as many others.
Albani was also active as a composer. A look at his discography shows that he wrote songs for Cugat, enric madriguera, m iguelito valdés, Alfredo m éndez and Joe Loco for record labels like rCA and vogue. Some of his more famous songs were “Dance mad,” “ el Diablo” and “Atlantic City rumba,” written in 1949 and recorded by numerous artists.
In his later years, Albani had a radio program on Wm ID that featured Latin American music. According to a 2011 story in Atlantic City Weekly, he also taught accordion.
Levi’s research spotlights the many Latin music pioneers and bandleaders who were regular and popular performers in Atlantic City through the years. During the 1950s, for example, Joe Loco’s band played at mack’s m usical Tavern at 123 N. New York Ave., Tito Puente performed at the President Hotel and Noro m orales led his band at the Traymore Hotel. o ne of the biggest stars of Latin music, and one of the earliest to appear in Atlantic City was Xavier Cugat, who in 1946 became one of the first shareholders in the Atlantic City race Course.
As a personal aside, on the bill at the President with Tito Puente was the Philadelphia-based society orchestra of bobby roberts, who for decades was one of the top society bands on the east Coast and beyond. I played drums for b obby roberts several times. I wish he would have mentioned Tito Puente.
o ne part of the exhibit focuses on Atlantic City native, bandleader
The public can learn more about this underappreciated period in our local musical history on Nov. 19.
Admission is free to this very special event. Doors open at 11:45 a.m. for the organ concert, which begins at noon, followed by the exhibition opening reception and light refreshments at 1 p.m. both events are free and open to the public. Free parking is available under boardwalk Hall.
Bruce Klauber is the author of four books, an award-winning music journalist, concert and record producer and publicist, producer of the Warner Brothers and Hudson Music "Jazz Legends" film series, and performs both as a drummer and vocalist.
Ocean swims to the right with Greg Gutfeld booking
The Casino File
By Chuck Darrow
Generally speaking, casinos shy away from anything political. After all, why alienate half of your customer base? b ut o cean Casino resort will provide an exception to that rule Nov. 22 as Fox News star Greg Gutfeld hits the ovation Hall stage.
For the uninitiated, Gutfeld is the host of “Gutfeld!” which airs weeknights at 10 p.m. While the Nielsen T v-ratings survey classifies it in the same category as the nightly talk-variety programs hosted by Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel, his format differs significantly from theirs: There are no performances; the show’s blueprint simply has Gutfeld moderate a panel of (mostly regular) contributors who
generally tend to hew to Fox News’ unambiguous right-wing positions.
However, the difference between “Gutfeld!” and its network stablemates is that its cast’s takes on current events and prominent personalities — while no-less mAGA-leaning, and with absolutely no regard for political correctness — are delivered with a decidedly comedic slant.
It's obviously a winning concept, as the show’s average nightly audience (per Nielsen) of 3.2 million viewers in the third quarter of 2025 puts it well ahead of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” which averages 2.84 million viewers. “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” averages 1.85 million and “Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” clocks in with 1.23 million.
However, according to one of Gutfeld’s chief lieutenants, those in attendance at o cean will not just be seeing a standard “Gutfeld!” episode.
“At heart, it’s a comedy show,” comedian Tom Shillue said during a recent phone call, adding that he opens the show with standup and is often joined by another comedian for about a half-hour of comedy.
“And then I bring out Greg. And, of course, Greg is all about comedy. I kind of stay on stage with him, or we sit in chairs and I interview him — Greg's kind of comedy is more of a sit-down comedy — and he takes us through stories about his life and headlines of the day,” Shillue said.
“And then at the end, there will be a Q-and-A session “because people are always curious about certain things.”
Usually, when a casino books a
comic who emphasizes political commentary, that person tends to come from the liberal side of the ledger; folks like Jon Stewart, bill maher and Trevor Noah — as well as song-parodist randy rainbow — have been cashing gaming hall paychecks for decades.
o ne reason may be that traditionally, those on the political right — with the occasional rare exception like Dennis miller — have not been celebrated for their comedic sensibilities. It’s a notion with which Shillue did not disagree.
“Conservatives in the old days did take themselves a little too seriously, but Greg has something called the ‘Dean Wormer effect,’” explained the 59-year-old Norwood, m assachusetts, native, referencing the strict college head from the 1978 comedy classic “Animal House.”
Shillue said Gutfeld talks about the comedies their generation grew up on, like “Animal House," and the “National Lampoon” franchise.
“These were people who were anti-establishment. And in that case, Delta House was always the fun guys.
They were having fun. They were horsing around. And conservatives were more like Dean Wormer, handing out ‘double-secret probation,” he said. “So, guys like Greg and [online news aggregator] Andrew breitbart flipped the script. Andrew — who introduced me to Greg — famously would always repeat the phrase, ‘politics is downstream of culture.’ And he wanted to have a good time. He wanted to horse around, he wanted to have fun. And Greg is the same way.”
“In the old days, there wasn't much room for us in the world of show biz, because show biz leans left,” added Shillue, who emphasized that apart from his “Gutfeld!” work, his stock-in-trade tends to be apolitical observational comedy.
“So, we kind of kept our politics secret as we tried to break into T v and Hollywood. There were very few conservative comedians, but our sense of humor was always there. It's just more out of the closet now. And I think ‘Gutfeld!’ has a lot to do with that.”
For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.
Two ‘Mo(town’) shows
There are two chances left to catch “ motown Forever,” the toe-tapping trip down memory lane that
finishes out its fall, Sunday-matinee run at borgata Hotel Casino& Spa on Nov. 23 and Nov. 30.
The briskly paced survey of the m otown record label’s hit-heavy catalog is an excursion through baby boomer musical nostalgia that slickly blends source material, performances and staging into an hour-plus of sonic fun.
The show’s winning formula begins with the m otown canon of mostly 1960s hits. “ my Girl” by The Temptations, “Stop In the Name of Love” (The Supremes), “Dancin’ in
the Streets” (martha & The vandellas) and “ midnight Train to Georgia” (Gladys Knight & The Pips) are just the tip of musical iceberg.
The material is delivered by a cast of talented vocalists whose versatility is center-stage throughout the presentation. That they’re backed by a killer eight-piece band — anchored by the one-two punch of bassist (and band quarterback) Arland Gilliam and drummer Joey Pucci — adds exponentially to the proceedings.
“ m otown Forever” is also animated by nifty choreography and dressed
up by costumes that add visual pizzazz to the songs without distracting from them. In all, it’s a typically strong entry from local impresario Allen valentine.
but don’t take my word for it; ask anyone in the sold-out music box last Sunday afternoon who bounced, boogied and boogalooed in their seats from the program’s first number to its last.
o ne final thought:
The packed-to-the-rafters audience begs the question as to why borgata is the only local gaming hall that presents this kind of entertainment on a regular basis.
Production shows like this are relatively inexpensive to mount, and based on the offerings at the big b , appear to remain popular with the casino-going public.
Perhaps if corporate bean counters would get their noses out of their spreadsheets and actually see how much people enjoy and appreciate this kind of programming, Atlantic City might attract more bodies, especially during the offseason.
For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.
Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.
Friday, November 14
Sting
▶8 p.m.
borgata event Center
Morgan Jay
▶7 p.m. & 10 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
Warren Zeiders
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Anthony Rodia
▶8 p.m.
The m usic box at borgata
Saturday, November 15
Sting
▶8 p.m.
borgata event Center
Freestyle Free for All
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Pete Holmes
▶8 p.m.
The Concert venue at Harrah’s
Atlantic City Headliners
Sunday, November 16
Erykah Badu
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Friday, November 21
KC & the Sunshine Band
▶9 p.m.
ovation Hall at ocean Casino
Tom Morello & Friends
▶9 p.m.
The m usic box at borgata
Lindsey Stirling
▶9 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
Sonu Nigam
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Ron White
▶8 p.m.
borgata event Center
Saturday, November 22
Beandy & Monica
▶8 p.m.
Swift Nation: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
▶8 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
Anthony Rodia
▶8 p.m.
Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall
Night Ranger
▶8 p.m.
The m usic box at borgata
Nek
▶8 p.m.
Borgata Event Center hosts Sting for two nights. Photo credit: Sting Facebook
A.J. Croce
▶8 p.m. Circus maximus Theatre at Caesars
Friday, November 28
The Commodores w/ Family Stone, Morris Day
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Sarah Brightman
▶8 p.m.
Bee Gees Gold
▶8 p.m.
Sound Waves at Hard rock
Saturday, November 29
Chris Isaak
▶8 p.m.
The m usic box at borgata
Willie Colon
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Bee Gees Gold
▶8 p.m.
Sound Waves at Hard rock
On Sale This Week
Journey: Final Frontier Tour
▶Saturday, may 23
Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall
Three Days Grace: Alienation Tour w/ I Prevail, The Funeral Portrait
▶Friday, February 27
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Million Dollar Experience: A Celebration of Sun Records
▶Saturday, February 7
ovation Hall at ocean Casino
Leonid & Friends
▶Thursday, may 7
Tropicana Showroom
1964: A pivotal year in coins
By Douglas Keefe, Beachcomber Coins
The early 1960s were interesting times for coin collectors. It seems people became aware of the fact that valuable coins could be found in circulation. This caused many people to dabble in the hobby, but things soon got out of hand when collectors and even average citizens began to believe any ordinary coin would become valuable. This led to a stampede on the banks by people who wanted to buy bags of coins fresh from the mint. Anyone who had a sympathetic teller at a bank could go in and buy a bag of coins and either take it home in hopes of making a huge profit, or just flip it to someone with that same dream. Needless to say, this caused a problem for merchants who relied on these banks to provide coins for use in their business. The mints ramped up production, but the problems persisted. bag quantities of coins are $50 for cents; $200 for five-cent coins; $500 for dimes; $1000 for quarters and $2000 for half-dollars. because of the face value of these bags, most people involved opted for the cent or five-cent bags, but those who could
afford the others made out, as you will soon see.
o n Nov. 22, 1963, President John Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas. His immense popularity led to a desire to issue a coin in his honor. The mint wasn’t interested in striking a commemorative coin, but a circulated coin could be replaced. The current coins that featured presidents Lincoln, Jefferson and Washington were safe. b ut the half-dollar pictured benjamin Franklin. In 1890 legislation was passed that required the design of a coin to remain in production for a minimum of 25 years. even though the Franklin half had only been produced for 16 years, a special law was passed which bumped b en to make room for the Kennedy half-dollar in 1964. If anything, this added to the coin bag mania, as many bags of Kennedy halves were hoarded.
The mints were dealing with another problem in 1964, and that was the fact the silver used to strike dimes, quarters and half-dollars was worth more than the face value of the coins, so it was decided to eliminate the silver in dimes and quarters, replacing the silver with a sandwich
of nickel-coated copper, and to replace the 90% silver with 40% in the half-dollar, all starting in 1965. This marked the end of the 90% silver coins, or did it?
mint records show that silver quarters were struck in the Philadelphia mint in both 1964 and 1965, although all coins bear the date 1964. The San Francisco mint, which had been
inactive since 1955, was brought out of moth balls to strike silver quarters dated 1964 during the years of 1965 and 1966, all without mintmarks. This was done because of then President Johnsons’ belief that the 2 different metal coins would circulate side by side when in fact the hoarders prevailed by removing the silver coins from circulation.
There was a similar situation with the new Kennedy half-dollar with the Philadelphia and Denver m ints striking 90% silver 1964 dated coins in 1965 and 1966. And how did the hoarders make out? Well, those who saved cent and nickel bags only recovered their face value, but those with silver dime, quarter and half-dollar bags of coins, if they were able to hang on until 1980s “silver rush,” increased in value by up to 25 times the face value of their coins. Not a bad return on investment.
Douglas Keefe and his wife Linda are owners of Beachcomber Coins and Collectibles in Egg Harbor Township. It is their only location.
Rare 1965 Silver Quarter
The Atlantic City Entertainment Press Corps: They came, they wrote, they ate
By Bruce Klauber
Most entertainment industry veterans agree that the 1980s and 1990s represented Atlantic City’s golden era of traditional casino entertainment. All of the legends – from Sinatra to George burns – mostly on view only in Las vegas before the legalization of gaming here, were booked regularly here.
The hotel/casino press/publicity offices worked differently then. very often, when a headliner was booked for a weekend, a casino would hold a press luncheon on a weekday afternoon prior to the weekend of the shows. The star would show up, answer questions, and kibbutz a bit, with the hope that the press would write advance articles publicizing the performance.
As the writer of the b ackstage entertainment column for Atlantic City magazine, which was syndicated to several other New Jersey publications, I was always on the press corps invite list.
m ost of the lunches were buffets, and our little group of Atlantic
City and Philadelphia press people behaved themselves when it came to food, but there were a few exceptions. A couple of the Philadelphia-based press corps members were not bonafide journalists. They “wrote” a weekly column for a barely-read and barely-literate Philadelphia rag for one reason: to get free food.
They could always be found at the head of the buffet line. Their first order of business was to get as many shrimp as possible. That's how the Atlantic City entertainment press corps earned its unfortunate nickname back then: “the eating press.”
The press conferences were always fun, though the stars on hand had answered many of the questions posed to them hundreds of times before. I preferred to hang back, listen to what was asked and answered, and wait around until most of
the press departed. At that point, if I had what I thought was a good question to ask, I’d go up to the headliner, introduce myself and ask away.
Three press corps memories stand out.
Legendary comedian George b urns signed a 15-year contract in 1981 to perform at Caesars in Atlantic City. The contract would have expired when he was 100.
Around 1986, when burns was 90, he was booked at Caesars with his one-time protégé, Ann- m argaret, as his opening act. m argaret was not on hand, so b urns handled the press himself, fielding the standard questions about his age, etc.
After most of the press had departed, I walked up to him.
“ m r. burns, I want to ask you something,” I said.
“What do you want to know, kid?” he asked.
“You’ve been sold out here for weeks, and you’re sold out wherever you go. So, why do you bother doing these press conferences?”
ment, b urns dropped the façade of a wise-cracking senior citizen. Whenever I get winded, schlepping my drums or sound system around to the next gig, I recall what George burns said: “It’s what we do.”
Sammy Davis Jr. had a long history in the city. He worked at Club Harlem, the 500 Club and most of the casinos. And his mother, elvera “ baby” Sanchez, tended bar for years at Grace’s Little belmont jazz club on Kentucky Avenue.
With the advent of casino gambling in Atlantic City, Davis was one of the first performers booked here, first at Caesars, and later, perhaps at the suggestion of his friend, Frank Sinatra, at the Golden Nugget, which became bally’s Grand. on the afternoon of oct. 11, 1985, Davis gave a press conference in the Golden Nugget’s nightclub, just prior to a scheduled rehearsal. He had recently come off a hip operation, and it was clear that walking was challenging for him.
After the standard questions about the rat Pack and his thoughts on today’s music, I stepped in.
“ m r. Davis, you were one of the great drummers. Why aren’t you playing drums in the act anymore?”
His reply: “ because, kid, it’s what we do.”
It’s a moment and a lesson I’ve never forgotten, and for a brief mo -
His answer made a lot of sense, though in retrospect, the reason he wasn’t playing drums in his act at that moment was likely because of the hip issue.
↘Continued on 66
ATLANTIC CAPE WINDOWS
“Have you heard buddy rich lately?” he asked me.
“I’m always hearing b uddy rich,” I replied.
“Then you know that to try to do anything he does is just impossible. even though he’s one of my dearest friends, after hearing b uddy again and again, it just didn’t make sense to me to keep playing drums in the act.”
Davis had another hip operation in 1988, but to the best of my knowledge, after he had that first operation three years earlier, he never played drums publicly again. That was a shame. He was a good drummer.
b ack in the day, when someone asked me to describe the performance of Don rickles, I could only say, “You have to see him in person. Words can’t describe the show.”
Yes, he was an insult comic, and yes, a good part of his routine was anything but politically correct by today’s standards. but I found him to be hilarious, and so did thousands of others.
He worked at several Atlantic City casinos from 1978, when resorts International opened as the city's first hotel/ casino, until less than a year before his death in 2017 at age 90.
knew about fellow insult comics like Jack e . Leonard and b .S. Pully, and he remarked that he wished every interviewer had “done their homework” like I did. I let him know that I was also a working jazz musician; he remarked, “ o h…you’re in the business. Now I understand.”
At the official press conference at resorts, I tracked him down and introduced myself. He not only said he loved what I did, but he also took me around and introduced me to
almost everyone in the room, including famed press agent/publicist Lee Solters, telling one and all that “this is a kid who is going places.”
I interviewed rickles in advance of a 1979 resorts appearance and made sure his publicist got a copy of it when it was published. During the interview he seemed surprised that I
Something like that doesn’t happen often in this business of writing. but then again, with the Atlantic City entertainment Press Corps, aka “the eating press,” anything was possible.
Complex products: Understanding the risks of alternative investments
By Eric Reich
Alternative investments, particularly complex products, are called that for a reason. The growing popularity of these investments is understandable, given the hype surrounding them lately. The shiny new ideas often get a lot of attention, but that doesn’t mean that they are appropriate for everyone. I became extremely concerned when I recently heard an investor state that they wanted to move completely away from traditional investments and put all of their money into alternative investments. This is a terrible idea for anyone to do, and this week I wanted to focus on why.
First, what is a complex product? e ssentially, it is an investment that includes valuations, cash flows, performance or risks that are not easily understood by the average investor. For this reason, they are more scrutinized by regulators and, in most cases, restricted by the type of investor you are and/or limited in the amount of liquid net assets you can invest. In New Jersey, investments into alternative investments are limited to 30% of your liquid net worth.
Complex products include structured products like equity-linked
notes, principal-protected notes, reverse convertibles, options, futures, swaps, leveraged eTFs, hedge funds, private equity, private credit, reITs, b DCs, mortgage-backed securities, collateral debt obligations, crypto e TFs, tokenized funds, and, to a lesser extent, even some annuity products.
These products can derive their performance from what we call nonlinear returns. Their performance may rely on derivative mechanics such as floors, caps, or triggers. They may have valuations that are derived from a model or issuer-specific pricing with little to no secondary market value. Secondary market pricing, when available, can vary 10-30% from NAv pricing.
Risks to complex products include:
1. Liquidity risk: m any complex products have limited liquidity, and that liquidity can come at a steep cost if it is offered.
2. Leverage: These products can also use synthetic leverage by employing derivatives or swaps, both of which could potentially increase downside risks.
3. Issuer or counterparty risk: This is the risk that the issuer becomes insolvent. Think Lehman brothers in 2009.
4. Valuation: many of these products rely on illiquid assets or m arkto- model accounting, which can make valuation difficult to truly understand.
5. Cost: many complex products are more expensive than traditional
investments, and those costs are not always transparent. 3-4%-plus fees are not uncommon in these products. I don’t mean to convey that all of these products are bad; they aren’t. Sometimes, the only way to access certain investments is via alternative investments. Just realize all of the potential risks involved. If you don’t, then ask more questions. You should always understand two things about every investment you make: what did I buy, and why is it right for me? Just because you hear about something at cocktail parties doesn’t mean it is right for you. many of these products are limited to investors of a certain net worth. Unfortunately, having a higher liquid net worth rarely translates into being a more sophisticated investor. Understanding what you are buying and why it is right for you is one of the best ways to begin to make good investment decisions.
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 Man-
agement, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.
Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations.
Turning clutter into opportunities Tag, You’re
By Delaney Crawford
As jolly as the holiday seasons are portrayed to be, the happiness of these times can also bring about stress, financial burdens and excessive cluttering. What if there was a way to help local families with all of that and more?
enter Tag, You’re It, a pop-up consignment sale business built by two locals, rickee Jackson and beth m cIntyre, who each have a passion for helping others. Their business,
It hosts pop-up consignment shop
Tag, You’re It is currently hosting a pop-up shop in the old Forever 21 location at the Hamilton m all. The pop-up started Nov. 12 and continues until Saturday, Nov. 15. everyone is welcome to come shop within the mall hours, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
This pop-up shop offers parents and community members the chance to shop for quality clothing, toys, and sporting goods at affordable prices, all while promoting sustainability and community connection. m ore than just a marketplace, this event creates a space where families can come to -
founded just this past spring, brings a new kind of shopping experience to the season, one that’s all about giving back, saving money, and supporting local families.
gether, maintain their budgets, and make a positive impact right here in South Jersey.
“ m y partner b eth has a background in consignment events. We
got to talking one day about all the stuff our kids and families have accumulated and wondering what we were going to do with it all and then we realized, every other family is in the same boat,” Jackson said. “So that’s when beth’s background came into effect and our shared passion for community was how the business was born this spring.”
During this event and their next ones, the duo hopes to connect with locals, both those who simply shop and those willing to be consigners too.
As they continue to grow Tag, You’re It, the duo hopes to host more pop-up shops elsewhere. There is already a second South Jersey popup planned for this spring in the same location, from April 15-18.
Those who wish to be consigners simply register on their site, www.tyisale.com, and you’re in.
“I think it’s wonderful, we get to host our first pop-up in South Jersey,” Jackson said. “I really feel that it’s a way to help families lose clutter and earn extra money, especially at this time with the holidays coming up. It also gives all their items a second life, and shoppers get to come and buy great items at 50% to 90% off of retail prices.”
I can help you put the pieces together.
this pop-up to help families find what they need and to give new life to the things they no longer need.
“It’s been a unique experience getting this together since this is something new to the area. We’ve been doing a lot of events and things at different schools and markets, teaching people about consignment and what we’re doing. So, I think there’s been a lot of teaching and learning about what Tag, You’re It is and how it can work for people, whether they
want to be a consigner or a shopper,” Jackson said. “ m y hope is that the community loves it, that they come and shop, see all the great items at really reduced prices, and the ability to give everything here a second life.”
The duo thought the Hamilton m all made perfect sense for their all-in-one consignment shop, given its central location, ample parking, and spacious layout. Inside, shoppers can find everything from a brand-new pair of shoes to a lacrosse helmet for next season. Tag, You’re It is hosting
As families look for ways to save this season, Tag, You're It offers more than bargains. It offers a sense of community. by turning clutter into opportunity, Jackson and m cIntyre are proving that shopping locally can mean much more than finding a good deal; it can mean helping neighbors, supporting families, and building a stronger South Jersey together.
Beaujolais Nouveau and beyond
Drink Up!
By David Setley
On Nov. 20, “le b eaujolais Nouveau est arrivé!” or “the beaujolais Nouveau has arrived!” will be shouted by wine enthusiasts around the world. Since the 19th century, wine grape farmers in France’s beaujolais region have celebrated the vendange (the wine grape harvest) by quickly producing and releasing a wine from that year’s harvest. According to Smithsonian magazine, beaujolais winemakers and distributors officially named the wine “ beaujolais Nouveau” in 1951 and declared Nov. 15 as the release date. Interest in the annual wine event grew significantly in the european market over the next two decades as distributors raced to be the first to deliver the wine to market on release day. In 1985, the beaujolais Nouveau release date was changed to the third Thursday in No -
vember to better align with the upcoming weekend. In the United States, we have only celebrated beaujolais Nouveau Day since the 1980s, when it was introduced to the U.S. market by entrepreneurial French winemaker Georges Duboeuf. With Thanksgiving just one week later, the annual event has skyrocketed in popularity in America.
b eaujolais Nouveau is a wonderful celebration of the harvest. However, there is more to the region than the young wine. Gamay is the primary wine grape grown in beaujolais, which is in the eastern region of France and the southernmost wine region of the b urgundy Ao C. Gamay was initially grown throughout b urgundy until it was banished to the extreme south by the Duke of burgundy to make as much room as possible for the growth of Pinot Noir grapes. Fortunately for Gamay grapes, the granite soil of the b eaujolais terroir was ideal for the varietal. Unfortunately, the Gamay grape and the b eaujolais region as a whole have a questionable repu -
tation among wine connoisseurs, as most consumers associate both with the rapidly fermented, young wine of beaujolais Nouveau Day. It’s time to give the region and the grape a second look.
o ne of my favorite b eaujolais Gamay wines comes from the subregion of Fleurie in the beaujolais wine region, between the cities of Lyon and m âcon. It is located on sunny, granite-soiled slopes between the neighboring appellations of m oulin-à-vent to the north and m orgon to the south. m ore on those two appellations in a moment. Domaine Arnaud Combier Fleurie has earned accolades from many of the world’s most famous wine magazines and critics. This elegant wine is silky smooth and well-balanced, with notes of black cherry, toasted baking spices, and a touch of damp earth. Domaine Arnaud Combier is a leader in the minimal intervention (aka natural wine) movement in France. In my opinion, this is beaujolais at its finest and is very reasonably priced.
The m oulin-à-vent appellation is a cru subregion of the beaujolais. The French term “cru” translates to “growth,” but when associated with an appellation or group of vineyards, it indicates high-quality wines. The L. Tramier & Fils m oulin-A-vent is an outstanding example of the quality wine this region produces. The wine is complex, well-structured, and garnet-colored with a lightly floral and red berry aroma and significant spiciness and earthiness. It is relatively full-bodied, with flavors of spice, red fruit, and soil. The Jean Paul Dubost m oulin A vent en b renay is another excellent representation of this wine.
The appellation morgon is located along the banks of the Saone river. The Gamay wines in this region tend to be denser than those produced elsewhere in b eaujolais. m orgon wines are dark plum in color with a velvety texture. They are more earthy
with notes of cherry and black fruit in the flavor and aroma. Try the Jean Paul brun Terres Dorees m orgon and see why Gamay is the King of beaujolais.
Another very reasonably priced Gamay is the L. Tramier & Fils beaujolais-villages. b eaujolais v illages is among the largest appellations of b eaujolais and takes up the majority of the southern and central sections of the region. The wines are light, smooth, and dry, featuring an outstanding earthiness of mushrooms, truffles, and smoke highlighted with the light fruitiness of cherry, fig, and cranberry. The wine is unoaked as it is fermented and aged in stainless steel.
Yet another impressive representation of the Gamay grape is JeanPaul brun – L’Ancien beaujolais 2021. This wine is 100% Gamay from vines planted on the south-facing slope of granitic soils. In what the winemaker considers to be classic b urgundian methods, sustainable farming is employed, and the grapes are harvested by hand. The wine is fermented in concrete tanks with native yeasts and without sulfur. It is aged for 6-8 months and bottled with light, unsterile filtration and minimal sulfur. The result is a delicious, light to medium-bodied red wine with licorice, spice, plum, and black cherries as the aroma and on the palate.
In honor of b eaujolais Nouveau Day, enjoy the wine that represents the first fruits of the wine vintage and consider trying some of the best wines from the beaujolais region as well. You might even find a few options that would be a great complement to your Thanksgiving dinner. Although white wines are often thought to be the most appropriate pairing with poultry, a light red wine, such as one of the Gamay wines mentioned above, would be equally perfect.
As always, if you have questions or would like to explore the wines of this region, stop into our Somers Point store or contact me at dsetley@ passionvines.com. Until next time, Happy b eaujolais Nouveau Day 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.
Shore Local asks
WHERE IS THAT WATERTOWER?
Hint- two are in Hamilton twp/Mays Landing, one is from Egg Harbor City, Galloway twp., Margate, Longport, Sea Isle City and Brigantine. The two Atlantic City watertowers are old designs, now repainted.
Wildwood Daze
BOARDWALK MOREYS FLAMINGOS SWIMMINGPOOL TRAMCAR BAY PALMTREE CASTLEDRACULA WATERSLIDE HEREFORDINLET SAND BEACHBALL SUNBURN HUNTS DOOWOOP SIGHTSEER CREST FIREWORKS BRIDGE CONVENTIONCENTER
SUDOKU
Solution on page 74
ACROSS
1. Ten Commandments word
6. Problem with concentrating, acr.
9. black sheep's gift
13. "The game of unspeakable fun!"
14. "Fancy that!"
15. one Direction's "Truly, ____, Deeply"
16. Consumed, two words
17. Finish, with "up"
18. extra software
19. The Lovin' Spoonful's "Do You ____ in magic"
21. *badger State capital
23. Snow runner
24. boris Godunov, for one
25. every American's uncle?
28. Aquarium organism
30. Hound or plague
35. He sacrificed a rib?
37. Nordic native
39. Singular of salpae
40. Sites
41. Joker or batman, e.g.
43. olympic one is 50 meters long
44. Terminate mission
46. boor
47. If it fits...
48. *Centennial State's capital
50. Form of approval
52. As much as this and a leg
53. Saintly glow
55. rub the wrong way
57. *Pine Tree State capital
61. *Garden State capital
65. Idle talk
66. morning condensation
68. le de la City river
69. Painter Degas
70. U.N. workers' grp.
71. Samurai dagger
72. Fraternity recruitment season
73. Dog tags
74. Ancient Greek building for entertainment
DOWN
1. bayonet wound
2. Angie Thomas' "The ____ U Give"
3. Killed by Cain
4. Jazz musician Armstrong.
5. *Sunflower State capital
6. Fit of shivering
7. *____ moines
8. regards
9. Dry riverbed
10. bookie's quote
11. mishmash
12. Country singer Loretta
15. Hot curry dish
20. mexican revolutionary
22. "I see!"
24. Food thickener
25. Type of bar
26. Acrobat maker
27. Wine from myconnais
29. Chutzpah
31. What Kanye does
32. *Greeting in Honolulu
33. Animal trail
34. *beaver State capital
36. Type of missile
38. *St. ____
42. It can lead up or down
45. movie preview
49. Hard to escape routine
51. Faster than allegro
54. Forearm bones
56. Work the dough
57. Copycat
58. Pakistani language
59. Silences
60. *Salt Lake City State
61. A child's "terrible ____"
62. Pitchfork part
63. Aware of
64. Ne
67. old age, archaic
THEME: STATE CAPITALS
Rising sign horoscopes for Nov. 13 – 19
Aries: How have things been shifting with your home, family, and private life? It’s a good time to revise plans, go deeper into your roots, and/ or allow more of your authenticity to shine.
Taurus: How have things been shifting with your voice and daily ins and outs? It’s a good time to review communication, relationships with siblings, and what’s truly nourishing.
Gemini: How have things been shifting with your personal resources and income? It’s a good time to review finances and potential for growth, while also believing in yourself and your abilities.
Cancer: How have you grown in the last five months? It’s a good time to reflect on your self-improvement efforts and how you can become an even better version of yourself.
Leo: How have things been shifting with your connection to the liminal? It’s a good time to review or reimplement disciplines that quiet the mind and facilitate replenishment.
virgo: How have things been shifting in your vision for your future? It’s a good time to rethink the alignment of what’s manifesting, especial -
Weekly Horoscopes
ly within your groups of friends and community.
Libra: How have things been shifting in your profession? It’s a good time to reassess any recent changes, and whether or not your needs for fulfilling work are being supported.
Scorpio: How have you been putting yourself out there in greater ways? It’s a good time to reevaluate your perspectives, particularly those that can encourage expansive new endeavors.
Sagittarius: How have things been shifting with shared resources, contracts, and finances? It’s a good time to review that which is intertwined and where there’s potential to go even deeper.
Capricorn: How have things been shifting in your closest relation -
ships? It’s a good time to reflect on ensuring your needs are being met, as well as what you’re learning about yourself.
Aquarius: How are you feeling? It’s a good time to redirect your focus and attention to your health, well-being, daily life, practices and habits that could improve your vitality.
Pisces: How have things been shifting with your creativity? It’s a good time to reimagine sources of inspiration, especially those that stoke the flow, joy, and fortify your legacy.
Weekly astrology summary:
Jubilant Jupiter does a turn in the nurturing, Cancerian waters, beginning a retracing of its path that began on June 9. It’s a good time to retrace things ourselves as well, specifically
how we’ve been experiencing bonds and connections with family and friends, how we feel nourished and emotionally authentic, and how we intuit and provide for the needs of others. beliefs are also under Jupiter’s domain. Shifting beliefs about generosity, spirituality, safety, and security may also be highlighted at this time. The water element is once again dominant in the cosmos, churning emotions to the surface for expression and movement. Feel your feelings! retrograding m ercury dives back into the Scorpionic waters on Nov. 18, returning the vibe from beliefs and aspirations to the undertones and alignment of those beliefs and aspirations. Allow any sparks of insight and your inner knowing to be your most trusted guides. 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.
Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, Certified Aromatherapist and founder of Ursa Alchemy. Find her astrology readings and astrological aromatherapy services, teachings, podcast, get in touch and more at www.ursaalchemy.com or ursaalchemy@gmail.com.
The Cosmic Connection with Ursula Duffy
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