In support of our commitment to breast health awareness, and the importance of early detection through education and screening, The AMI Foundation offers the following events to help fight breast cancer! WITH YOUR SUPPORT… IMAGINE WHAT WE CAN DO TOGETHER.
FREE SCREENING MAMMOGRAM
AMI will offer a FREE SCREENING MAMMOGRAM* during the month of October to women age 40 and older with no insurance and no current or previous breast issues. This program is made possible through the generous support of the AMI Foundation. Convenient evening and weekend appointments are available. Appointments will be scheduled starting October 1, 2025. To schedule an appointment, please call (609) 677-XRAY (9729), (732) 223-XRAY (9729) or (856) 459-3855.
*A Screening Mammography is a routine mammography for women with no current or past breast issues.
GIRLS NIGHT OUT
Tuesday, October 7 • 5PM - 8PM 1450 Almonesson Road, Suite 175, Deptford, NJ 08096
Tuesday, October 14 • 5PM - 8PM 6529 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
Tuesday, October 21 • 5PM - 8PM 864 Route 37 West, Toms River, NJ 08755
This breast health event incorporates the things women love most: pampering, snacking and time with friends. Not to mention, you are making a very important choice by taking charge of your body, and your health.
FOR EVENT INFORMATION VISIT: www.amifoundation.net/girls-night-out-2025/
MAKING STRIDES WALK
JOIN TEAM AMI IN THE ANNUAL AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER® WALK
Sunday, October 12 • 10AM, Ocean City, NJ
Sunday, October 19 • 10AM, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Every step you take is personal, and every step will help people stay well and get well, find cures, and empower communities to fight back.
FOR WALK INFORMATION VISIT: www.amifoundation.net/strides
Costumes, candy and connection
Letter from the editor
If you’ve never been to a trunk-or-treat, think of it as Halloween tailgating. Instead of children going door to door, families gather in a parking lot or park where cars are lined up, trunks open and decorated in spooky or creative themes. Kids move from car to car collecting candy, showing off costumes and enjoying a safe, community-centered twist on traditional trick-or-treating.
t he idea took off in the mid2000s as schools, churches and community groups looked for fun, safe alternatives to trick-or-treating. today, trunk-or-treats have become a beloved tradition — a chance to celebrate early, connect with neighbors and show off creativity long before Halloween night.
b irch Grove Park in Northfield buzzed with excitement last Saturday evening as children, parents and grandparents strolled through the woods in costumes of every kind for the city’s annual trunk-or-treat celebration. Dozens of local businesses and organizations set up displays and decorated vehicles throughout the campsites, creating a magical backdrop for Halloween fun.
Our nonprofit, Heart of Surfing, was among them. As we hurried to set up and hand out candy, I’ll admit — I was grumbling that it felt too early in the month to celebrate Halloween. b ut as soon as I saw the children’s faces filled with excitement, my attitude shifted. My favorite moment came when a police officer leaned down to talk with a little boy dressed as an officer himself. the boy's eyes sparkled with pride, and it reminded me what these events are truly about — connection, belonging and shared joy.
I enjoyed the event more than I could have imagined and left feeling grateful — for the laughter echoing through the park, the volunteers who make it possible and the community that continues to lift one another up. trunk-or-treats may look a little different from the way many of us celebrated Halloween as kids — walking door to door through our neighborhoods with flashlights and pillowcases full of candy — but they capture that same sense of excitement and community in a new way. traditions evolve, just as communities do. What matters most isn’t whether candy comes from a front porch or the back of a car, but the joy and connection these moments create. each generation finds its own way to celebrate, to gather, and to make memories. the heart of Halloween — and of community — endures, even as the details change.
Peace & Love, Cindy
Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com
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, Rebecca Oldham, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Rachael King, Elisa Jo Eagan, Joe Martucci, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Chuck Darrow, Bruce Klauber, Alex Corson, Cat Pepe, Christina Martin, Delaney Crawford, Ursula Duffy, Robin Stoloff, Tynan Hand, Madison Russ
SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE
17 OCTOBER 18 & 24 NOWDECEMBER 6
16 & 30
OCTOBER 31
Fall fun and frights: Local farms and attractions to visit this October
By Julia Train
Fall is in full swing across South Jersey, bringing crisp air, colorful leaves and plenty of ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly pumpkin patch, a scenic hayride or a spine-chilling haunted experience, local farms and attractions are ready to welcome visitors with open arms (and maybe a few spooky surprises).
From c ape May court House to Hammonton, here are some of the best spots to make the most of October weekends.
1. R and J Farm
A local favorite that has been around for years is r and J Farm on
R and J Farm is a local favorite. Photo credit: R and J Farm Facebook
W. Herschel Street in Galloway. the family-owned farm provides fun for visitors of all ages. Kids can have allday access to a jumping pad for $5. Guests can also get lost in the corn maze for $9 or take a hayride out to the pumpkin patch to pick the perfect pumpkin for $10. combo tickets are also available. there’s also a snack shack with fall treats, a pumpkin stand — for those who would rather just pick up a pumpkin and other plants for home
decor — and the taylor Made treats dessert truck on the weekends.
2. Working Dog Farms
On S. Odessa Avenue in Galloway, Working Dog Farms hosts Pumpkin Picking and Sweet Potato Digging every Saturday and Sunday in October, and columbus Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For $18, visitors can participate in hayrides, picking a small pumpkin or digging two sweet potatoes, pumpkin decorating, chicken feeding, a corn pit, outdoor games and many photo opportunities.
Also, stop by their farm stand for all your fall decorating needs. It’s stocked up with pumpkins of all sizes, corn stalk bundles, straw bales and more.
3. Stiles Farm and Nursery
In addition to pumpkins, pick apples, pears, figs, pumpkins and more
4. Johnson’s Corner Farm
A drive away, in Medford, you can pick your own apples, sunflowers, pumpkins and more. every weekend through October, the farm has Harvest Festivals with hayrides to pick pumpkins, gourds and apples. there’s also live music, a festival food tent, gem mining, duck races, a corn maze and animals.
And for those who seek to be spooked during this season:
5. Forever Forest
Forever Forest, at 354 b remen Ave., egg Harbor city, hosts a Halloween e xperience for visitors of all ages, offering both wholesome and spooky Halloween fun. For $27.99, enter an immersive affair every
↘Continued on 8
at Stiles Farm and Nursery — located at 172 South Delsea Drive, cape May court House.
Get fall decor at Working Dog Farm's farm stand. Photo credit: Working Dog Farm Facebook
weekend in October. there are four sessions that last two hours each — two kid-friendly daytime sessions and two at night that are suited for older kids and adults.
the night sessions include a milelong haunted walking trail, going through the “Haunted tree Maze” and “the trolley of terror,” with live actors. this year, they added an “Old Fashioned Ghost town.” this is not for younger children. the day sessions are a family-friendly experience that includes a trolley ride through the Forever Forest farm with Halloween decorations. there are also outdoor activities like crafts, karaoke and s’mores by the campfire.
6.
Terror in the Junkyard
Presented by the Scullville Volunteer Fire company is the “ terror in the Junkyard” haunted hayride and “Maze of terror.” every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in October, volunteers come together to scare visitors at Fleming’s Junkyard. tickets are $15 for the hayride, $10 for the maze and $20 for both.
7.
Miller Farms
every Friday and Saturday in October from 7-10 p.m., walk through the haunted woods and maze at Miller Farms, which is located at 624 S.
egg Harbor road in Hammonton. You’ll come in contact with flesh-eating zombies, devilish clowns, chainsaw maniacs and a variety of other spooky creatures. A ticket for the haunted woods is $25, and $10 for the haunted maze.
city’s spooky side when you visit the Warner theatre, caesars and bally’s, among others. tickets are $26 for adults, $17 for children 6 and over.
9. Witch-Craft
8. Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour
e xplore Atlantic c ity’s most haunted and historic locations on the boardwalk with an hour-long walking tour. You’ll learn about Atlantic
For those who are 21 and over, the same people who produced the Atlantic city beer and Music Festival will transform Paradise Lakes campgrounds in Hammonton into a spooky village on Friday, Oct. 10 and Saturday, Oct. 11. Local vendors will be serving up savory stews and seasonal brews. t here will be approximately 60 brewmasters and distillery wizards pouring their classics within their decorated tents. tickets purchased
before the festival are $80, excluding fees, and can be found at witchcraftnj. com. tickets will be sold at the door for $90.
Whether you prefer the cozy charm of pumpkin picking and hayrides or the thrill of haunted trails and ghostly encounters, there’s something for everyone this fall. these local favorites capture the heart of the season — offering the perfect mix of family fun and Halloween chills. So grab a sweater, gather your friends and family, and go make some unforgettable autumn memories.
Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain
Iced Bananas Foster with sweet cold foam
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Terror in the Junkyard is a local favorite.
Photo by Steffen Klenk
Forever Forest provides spooky fun for all ages. Photo by Julia Train
Movement is medicine: Greate Bay launches Parkinson’s fitness program
By Delaney Crawford
There are approximately 90,000 new cases of Parkinson's disease diagnosed in the U.S. each year. t he condition can affect balance, strength, and mobility, and nearly one million Americans are currently living with it.
At Greate bay country club, a new program is proving that movement is medicine for this disease. the team there hopes to reach and support as many members of the community as possible. Designed for individuals at every stage of the disease, the classes combine boxing, strength training, endurance work, and mobility exercises to help participants fight back. this program originally existed at Linwood’s body In balance for nearly
10 years. Owners Dan and ellie Hagan kept it going until the space was no longer available. rather than let the program fade away, Membership Director Mary ellen Spiers stepped in to save the day, and the program officially launched at Greate bay racquet & Fitness this past July.
“I had initially reached out to them last year when we were offer-
ing a Parkinson's seminar, knowing they provided a Parkinson’s-specific exercise program, just to invite those who may want some additional information. A few months later, they reached out to me looking for an alternative space. When I realized they were losing their program, I decided we had to help them,” Spiers said.
2026 Somers Point Business Association Awards
Honor those SPBA businesses that have made an impact on the people who live, work, and play in our community.
The Health Award
The member business that’s always looking out for our health and well-being—whether it’s helping us stay on track with fitness goals or providing compassionate care.
Brayces Orthodontics
Dawn Gadon Wellness
Great Bay Racquet & Fitness
Permanent Cosmetics by Amy
Shore Medical Center
Shore Physicians Group
The Best Pours at the Shore Award
Toasting the establishment with the best bartenders and drinks.
Greate Bay Country Club
Mansion
Somers Point Arts Commission
Somers Point Education Foundation
Somers Point Historical Society
Somers Point School District
Somers Point Unique Experiences Club
The “Depend on Us” Award
A business that provides trusted guidance, unwavering support, and dependable financial or technical service to the Somers Point community.
Fulton Bank
KingBarnes – Attorneys at law
NEKey.com Cyber Security
Reich Asset Management
Sturdy Savings Bank
TD Bank Univest Financial
Xfinity-Somers Point
The Good Neighbor Award
A member business that’s a staple in the community, with consistent generosity, community service, and grassroots involvement in Somers Point.
Circle Liquors
Custard Hut
Gateway Playhouse
KingBarnes Attorneys at Law
Seth Grossman and Associates
Shore Ace Hardware
Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar
Josie Kelly’s Public House
Mexiquila Passion Vines
The Point
The “Smooth Moves” Award
The trusted pros who help open doors—guiding you through buying/renting a home, securing insurance, or navigating the fine print - and make the big moves feel easy.
Atlantic Title Services
Glenn Insurance
Shore Title
Thomas Heist Insurance
Vehonna Thompson – Keller Williams
Wiser Insurance
Stay-cation Sensation Award
Recognizing the apartment community that delivers resort-style living and vacation vibes all year long
Bayview Court Apartments
Economy Motel Inn & Suites
Owl Motel
Somers Point Hosts & Residents Coalition
The Home Sweet Home Award
The pros who make Somers Point homes and businesses shine from the outside in. From landscaping to fresh paint, they boost beauty block by block.
Ace Plumbing, Heating, & Electrical Supplies
Comfort Now by Bob McAllister
ERCO Ceilings, Blinds, & Doors
Phillips Landscaping
ServePro of EHT/Ventnor
Somers Point Lumber
Weinstein Supply
The “Fork Yeah” Award
Celebrates best menu – creative or comfort foods
– that always satisfies.
Crab Trap
Custard Hut
Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar
Josie Kelly’s Public House
Mexiquila
Walt’s Original Primo Pizza
The Top Shop Award
The retail store that’s simply the best—style, service, and selection all on points.
Circle Liquors
Passion Vines
Point Auto
Santori’s Produce & Deli
Shore Ace Hardware
Xfinity
The B2B MVP
The behind-the-scenes pros who keep other businesses running strong. This award goes to the go-to partner that businesses trust and rely on.
Ace Plumbing, Heating, & Electrical Supplies
Fitzpatrick, Bongiovanni and Kelly Certified
Public Accountants
Fooks-Michnya Associates
Fort Nassau Graphics
KingBarnes – Attorneys at law
Max Communications & Payment Solutions
Office Concepts
Rutala Associates
Servepro of EHT/Ventnor
Suasion Communications
When the transition happened, Spiers and Greate b ay expected around 12 to 15 participants. t hat number quickly grew to more than 40 people attending each session. the program currently offers two classes every tuesday and thursday. Participants are divided according to
ability. the first class, at 10:30 a.m., focuses more on boxing. During the session, participants rotate through several stations, each with different exercises, moving to a new one every three minutes.
the second class follows at 11:30 a.m. and is geared toward those with more advanced Parkinson’s. Since these participants may need more time to transition between activities, the class is structured as a group session with fewer stations. both classes include a warm up and cool down.
Strength, mobility, and endurance training like what’s offered at Greate bay can help delay the progression of
Parkinson's, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the risk of falls. t he boxing portion, in particular, boosts balance, coordination, and agility. repetitive movements stimulate the brain, helping maintain motor function, while also lifting mood, reducing stress, and empowering participants.
“We were fortunate to have Dan Hagan, who ran the previous program, come over as a volunteer, along with our instructors Daryl Palmer, Deb best & Kourtney Schlemo, who were able to create the perfect program for their needs,” Spiers said. “ the combination of their extensive training backgrounds has created a
solid class to keep them all involved and getting the workout they need.”
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For many participants, this class is their only consistent form of physical activity. b eyond the physical benefits, it provides a chance to connect with others facing the same challenges. Spiers shared that participants often smile throughout the entire class, build friendships, and feel less isolated.
“At first, they were very hesitant that their program would never be the same, but after four months, I think it's safe to say we didn’t let them down,” Spiers said. “We wanted to make sure we kept the integrity of the program while introducing some changes slowly that help to improve the program, while giving them all a safe environment as well as a challenging workout.”
Greate bay is proud to host the only Parkinson’s-specific fitness program in South Jersey. research continues to show that regular movement and exercise are key in helping people with Parkinson’s manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. Spiers hopes this program not only gives participants strength, but also something to look forward to each week.
“We just want people to know that we do offer this very unique program and if there is anyone who has been struggling with this disease, this is their opportunity to get involved in a program that can be beneficial to them,” Spiers said. “I am extremely
proud of our team of instructors who have brought all their experience, knowledge and passion to making this program the success it is. In my 18 years here at Greate bay racquet & Fitness and the many programs and events we have organized here, this may be the most important one.” For more information or to get your loved one involved in this program, contact Mary ellen Spiers directly at 609-926-9550 ext. 108.
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. After earning a BA in Communications, Delaney built a successful career in the newspaper industry, honing skills in, news writing, media, and content creation. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DC's Social Media & Content Creation, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
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Linwood’s historic pet cemetery holds 3,500 stories
By Catherine Pepe
Tucked behind quiet homes off Shore road in Linwood, clara Glen Pet cemetery is a hidden piece of South Jersey history. Founded in 1918 by a couple who shared a deep love for animals, it stands today as one of the oldest pet cemeteries in the country.
In the early 1900s, c lara and Glen White were caring for dozens of animals, including dogs, cats, and hundreds of rabbits. With no proper place to bury their pets, they decided to create one themselves. Glen made the coffins by hand, and clara added soft linings to make them comfortable. they often photographed the animals before burial, sometimes placing the photos on the headstones. What began as a backyard project soon gained attention. Neighbors asked to bury their own pets on the land, and the cemetery began to grow.
b y the 1940s, Alex and Agnes Miller took over the cemetery and kept up the careful and respectful pet burials. In 1986, the Linwood Historical Society took over the care of clara Glen Pet cemetery. Since then, they have dedicated themselves to preserving the grounds and its history. According to the Society, more than 3,500 animals are buried there,
making it one of the largest and oldest pet cemeteries in the country. Despite challenges like weather and vandalism, the Society continues to care for the cemetery to honor the memory of the animals and families connected to it.
the cemetery is also filled with stories. One of the most well-known animals buried at clara Glen is rex the Wonder Dog, a water-skiing dog who once wowed crowds at Atlantic city’s Steel Pier. In the 1930s and ‘40s, rex became a local legend by performing tricks on an aquaplane behind a speedboat. His grave remains one of the most visited in the cemetery.
Another notable pet is Paradiddle ben, a show dog whose gravestone is decorated with theater curtains and masks. His headstone reflects his connection to the world of performance, and the design makes it one of the most unique markers in the cemetery.
there are also stories of exotic animals being buried here. Some believe a monkey and one of Steel Pier’s famous diving horses are laid to rest at clara Glen, though their exact graves are unmarked. Whether fact or legend, these stories have become part of the cemetery’s character.
In addition to these one-of-a-kind animals, clara Glen is also said to be the final resting place for pets once owned by celebrities. Songwriter Irving berlin, comedian eddie cantor, and actress b illie b urke are just a
few of the names reportedly tied to pets buried at the site. While the animals themselves may not have been famous, their connection to these public figures adds another layer to the cemetery’s story.
burials at clara Glen slowed down significantly in the late 1980s. t he only animals still buried there today are police K-9 dogs from Atlantic city and nearby areas. A special section in the back of the cemetery is reserved for these working animals who served in law enforcement.
today, the cemetery blends into the neighborhood around it. A small blue sign marks the entrance near Heather court, but many people pass by without ever realizing it's there. Some stones have sunk or weathered over time, and others have been damaged, but many remain intact.
the Linwood Historical Society continues to care for the cemetery, often with help from local volunteers. their efforts keep clara Glen from being forgotten and allow visitors to freely walk the grounds in peace.
though overlooked by many, clara Glen Pet cemetery is a touching tribute and final home for thousands of beloved pets.
Catherine is a recent Communication Design graduate from Elon University. When she’s not designing, she’s experimenting with new recipes, working on creative projects, or hunting for vintage treasures. She can be reached at catpepe72@gmail.com
Events and Happenings
Multi-day Events
Warm Hearts for Veterans
▶Now-Wednesday, Oct. 15
Wesley by the bay’s Have a Heart Initiative is asking for donations of new men’s or women’s winter coats and jackets, socks, gloves, hats, hand or foot warmers, backpacks and gift certificates to McDonald’s, 7- eleven, or Dunkin'. Donations can be dropped off at 2409 bay Ave. in Ocean city now through Oct. 15. See https://a. co/cb8GxKb.
OCTC Presents ‘Ring of Fire’ ▶Friday, Oct. 10-Sunday, Oct. 12
Ocean city Music Pier, 825 boardwalk
Hear Johnny cash’s iconic songbook come to life in a unique musical journey through love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption and the healing power of home and family. Hear iconic hits such as “I Walk the Line” and “Folsom Prison b lues,” along with the title song “ ring of Fire” performed by a multi-talented cast that paints a musical portrait of the Man in black. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 10 and 11, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. tickets are available at www.oceancitytheatrecompany. com.
Not So Scary Hayrides
▶Friday, Oct. 10 and Saturday, Oct. 11, 4-9 p.m.
b irch Grove Park, 1700 b urton Ave., Northfield
Join the city of Northfield Volunteer Fire company for family-friendly hayrides at b irch Grove Park. b ring your friends, bundle up and enjoy a night of safe family fun under the fall sky. rain date: Oct. 13.
Fleming’s Junkyard, 353 Zion road, egg Harbor township
One of South Jersey’s most haunted attractions is open for the season. terror in the Junkyard is back for another year of screams and frights. Opening night is this Friday. Hayride tickets are $15 each, or walk through the maze for $10. combo tickets are $20; $2 discount for military and first responders. Purchase online and learn more at www.scullvillefire.org/ hayride.
Smithville Irish Festival
▶Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
615 e . Moss Mill road, Smithville break out your green and head to
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Smithville Irish Festival this weekend. enjoy live music, bagpipers, food trucks, craft vendors and plenty of kid’s activities. raise a pint and indulge on authentic Irish dishes while enjoying a festive atmosphere and the shops of Historic Smithville. See www. smithvilleirishfestivalnj.org.
Ocean City Boardwalk and Downtown Merchant Discount Days
▶Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Asbury Ave. and boardwalk
Select vendors in Ocean city will be offering amazing deals all weekend long. Shop and enjoy the vibrant boardwalk and downtown Asbury Ave.
Saint Joseph’s Regional School
Super 50/50 Raffle Drawing
▶Now-Friday, Oct. 24
SJrS is hosting a Super 50/50 raffle Drawing, where 10 lucky winners will win total cash prizes of $20,000, with one grand prize of $10,000. Only 400 tickets will be sold. the drawing date is Friday, Oct. 24 at the SJrS Fall Fest. email culrich@sjrs.org or call christine Ulrich at 609-457-4023 for more information.
Thursday, October 9
HEROtini Happy Hour at The Crab Trap
▶6-7:30 p.m.
2 broadway, Somers Point
Join the H er O c ampaign for mocktails at the crab trap. enjoy free mocktail samples, raffle prizes and live music. Plus, attendees will have the chance to vote on their favorite mocktails and try the crab trap’s new Lavender rosemary Spritzer. be part of the mission, one sip at a time and support safe and sober driving. Admission is Free.
Friday, October 10
HEROtini Happy Hour in Atlantic City
▶5-7 p.m.
tennessee Avenue beer Hall, 133 S. tennessee Ave.
turing Mary Lou Newman and Len Pierro, reimagines the music of tenor saxophonists Al cohn and Zoot Sims. this program will be held in the chris Maloney Lecture Hall. the event is free and seating is first come, first served.
OCFAL October Reception
▶6-7:30 p.m.
711 Asbury Ave., Ocean city each month, the Ocean city Fine Arts League hosts a group show reception. this month’s theme is “Fall beauty.” Stop by the gallery and see the work of the local artists this Friday evening.
Second Friday at Ocean City Arts Center
▶7-8:30 p.m.
1735 Simpson Ave., Ocean city Join the Ocean city Arts center this Friday for their monthly artist’s reception, featuring “Inspirations” by artist Gail beckley.
Saturday, October 11
Ocean City Fall Block Party
▶9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Asbury Avenue, from Fifth and 14th streets
the Fall b lock Party is this Saturday. Mark your calendars and join over 400 crafters, food vendors, music and more along Asbury Avenue. Visit www.oceancityvacation.com for more information.
Join the H er O c ampaign for mocktails in Atlantic city. enjoy free mocktail samples, raffle prizes and live music. Plus, attendees will have the chance to vote on their favorite mocktails and try the b eer Hall’s mocktail, the Sparkler. be part of the mission, one sip at a time and support safe and sober driving. Admission is Free.
Fall Concert Series at Ocean City Library
▶6:30 p.m.
1735 Simpson Ave. this week, the A to Z band, fea -
Absecon Art in the Park
▶10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Heritage Park, 500 Mill road the Absecon cultural Arts Alliance invites the public for a day of creativity and community at Heritage Park. the 11th Annual Art in the Park will bring together fine artists, craft vendors and families for a vibrant day of art, music, delicious food and fun activities. bring your love of the arts and immerse yourself in the creative spirit of the community.
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Smithville's Irish Festival is on Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12,. Photo by Historic Smithville, NJ Facebook
Egg Harbor City Fall Festival
▶3-6 p.m.
100 block of Philadelphia Ave.
Join the e gg Harbor city economic Development corporation for their annual Fall Festival. b ring your friends and family for a day of live music, crafts and fall games. Plus, celebrate Halloween and take part in a costume contest. Activities will include pumpkin painting, pony rides, a corn maze and plenty of food trucks to fuel your appetite.
One of the largest and most anticipated outdoor events is back, featuring a wide variety of vendors, food trucks and fun activities for all ages, all in support of a great cause. enjoy hayrides, face painting, music, dancing and much more. All donations go towards the feeding and care of over 700 rescue animals that call Funny Farm home.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in OCNJ
▶10 a.m.
Ocean city civic center, Sixth St. and boardwalk
Join over 5,000 walkers for the
18th annual O cNJ Making Strides, a celebration of courage and hope to end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone. the walk starts at 10 a.m. at the civic center. Learn more at www.makingstrideswalk.org/ OceancityNJ.
Spooks ‘N’ Kooks Costume Surf Contest
▶10 a.m.
Seventh St. beach, Ocean city this event is open to groms, adults and tandem riders. Sign-ups open at 10 a.m. entry fee is a $20 gift card to Shoprite or AcM e . All proceeds benefit the Ocean city Food cupboard. If there are no waves, the contest will be held on Oct. 13.
Oddball Vintage Flea Market
▶12-4 p.m.
131 New Jersey Ave., Absecon
Join Oddball Vintage for an outdoor flea market featuring over 30 vendors, coffee, tarot card readings, face painting and collectables. this event is free to attend.
Scullville Trunk or Treat
▶12-2 p.m.
Fleming’s Junkyard, 353 Zion road, egg Harbor township the Scullville Ladies Auxiliary will host their annual trunk or treat on the grounds of Fleming’s Junkyard this Saturday. this fundraiser supports the Scullville Volunteer Fire company and their mission to serve
RideWave
the community. t his is a pre-sale event only. No tickets will be sold at the gate. For more information, visit www.scullvillefire.org.
Monday, October 13
Musical Connections
▶1 p.m.
Katz Jcc boardroom, 501 N. Jerome Ave., Margate
Feel the stress of the day peel away as you enjoy familiar tunes from various genres, including classical, contemporary and jazz and instrumentals with friends and neighbors.
Whether a caregiver, cared for, or a community member, you are invited to attend. rSVP by Oct. 8 by contacting tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
Tuesday, October 14
Cooking Class at the Longport Library
▶6:30 p.m.
2305 Atlantic Ave.
Join the Longport Library for a fun cooking class celebrating Oktoberfest. the event will be held at the Guild Hall. registration is required in
The Funny Farm Fall Festival is on Sunday, Oct. 12. Photo by Steffen Klenk
advance. call the library at 609-4877403 to register.
Family Game Night in Somers Point
▶7 p.m.
Somers Point Senior center, 22 N. Ambler road
Somers Point residents are welcome to Family Game Night this tuesday. bring your favorite board game and play with neighbors and friends in the community.
Presentation on the Jersey Shore Storm of March 1962
▶7 p.m.
Upper twp. Senior center, 1369 Stagecoach road, Ocean View
Join the Historical Preservation Society of Upper township for their upcoming membership meeting this tuesday. t he meeting will include a program showcasing the Jersey Shore Storm of March 1962, presented by retired educator and author Joseph A. Larosa Jr., ed.D. Members and the public are welcome to attend. For more information, visit www.uppertwphistory.org.
Senior Dance Society
▶7:30-10 p.m.
Somers Point Fire co. No. 1, 447 bethel road
Join in the fun and enjoy an evening of dancing with live musical duos every tuesday. For more information, contact Sharon at kookiecar@yahoo.com.
Thursday, October 16
The Right Notes
▶7 p.m.
Greate b ay country club, 901 Mays Landing road, Somers Point
Join South Jersey’s largest philanthropic wine tasting event featuring more than 100 top-scoring wines from around the world, craft beer and spirits, artisanal food, live music and amazing auction items to raise funds to end MS. General admission opens at 7 p.m. tickets can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/therightnotes.
Friday, October 17
OCAC Fall Fundraiser
▶5:30-7:30 p.m.
Adelene’s at Port-O- call Hotel
Join the Ocean city Arts center in a tribute to an Old Ocean city tradition: boardwalk Sketch Artists. the evening will include hors d’oeuvres and beverages, along with live portrait sketches by local artists tim Smith and tony troy. t ickets and information are available by visiting www.oceancityartscenter.org or by calling 609-399-7628.
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.
Mental Health Association in Atlantic county, 4 e . Jimmie Leeds road, Galloway Newcomers and people with all levels of experience in meditation are welcome. For more information, call 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@ mhanj.org.
NAMI Family Support and Connection Groups
▶Monday, Oct. 13, 7-8:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s catholic church, 606 Shore road, Somers Point NAMI Family Support Group is a peer-led group for family members, caregivers and loved ones 18+ for individuals living with a mental illness. 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.
MHA Atlantic Family Meetings ▶tuesday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m.
these virtual support groups and educational programs are for individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. contact Gail christian at 609-6523800, ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj. org to receive a meeting link.
Depression and Anxiety Group
▶tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.
Atlantic community Wellness center, 1125 Atlantic Ave., Suite 617, Atlantic city t his weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness and recovery. Meetings are led by peers who have lived experience. No cost to participate. Offered by the Mental Health Association in Atlantic county. For more information, call 609-6523800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, Oct. 15, 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.
Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.
Why ocean temps were some of the warmest on record this season
By Meteorologist Joe Martucci
The summer tide came rolling in this year much warmer than 2024. In fact, the water temperatures were tropical enough to be among the warmest on record at the Jersey Shore.
From June to September, peak beach season, the ocean water temps, measured at Atlantic city’s Steel Pier, averaged 71.4 degrees –tied with 1951 for the fifth warmest season since recordkeeping began in 1912.
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration oversees this data. Jim eberwine, my weather dad and longtime NOAA meteorologist, collected the daily data, who then passed it along to me.
t his was exactly five degrees warmer than last year’s 66.4 degrees. remember last year? t he water was cold. You sweated on the sand but shivered in the ocean. June and July had zero days with a water
Saturday, Oct. 11th from 10am until 1pm
temperature above 75 degrees in Atlantic city. In fact, 11 July days were in the very chilly 50s; 55 degrees was the 8 a.m. water temperature on July 18, 2024.
the old saying, “life’s at ease with an ocean breeze” is true. Wind direction all summer, and during Local’s Summer in September, played a critical role in this top five ranking. there are three main factors that drive water temperatures.
The Sun: In spring and summer, the sun is higher in the sky, so it warms up the ocean water faster. In fall and winter, the sun is lower, so the water stays cooler.
The Currents: In New Jersey, there is a warm ocean current called the Gulf Stream. It starts near Florida and flows all the way to europe. It does not always reach New Jersey, but sometimes does when it swirls, bringing warmer water to the shore.
Wind Direction: Winds that blow from the east, called onshore winds, push warmer ocean water toward the beach. but winds from the south or southwest bring colder water. When winds blow along the shore, they can cause something called ekman Pumping. this pushes warm surface water away and pulls colder water up from the bottom of the ocean to where we swim.
While the sun and currents are constant, the wind direction varies day by day, month to month and, for purposes of this column, year by year. this year, onshore winds blew 30% of the time between June and August at Atlantic city International Airport in egg Harbor township, our NOAA
weather station with wind direction measurements closest to Atlantic city. the average is 15% of the time. In other words, we had twice the onshore winds as usual. September was the same, with onshore winds roughly 38% of the time in 2025. the average is 27%.
t hose extra onshore winds pushed in warmer water from the Gulf Stream, and limited the amount of colder upwelling. It also led to an August that was cooler than average on land, and just about average during September, according to New Jersey State climatologist Dave robinson, my other weather dad. the average June-to-September water temperature is 68.6 degrees. June was the only month below average at 65.8 degrees. that is not a surprise. However, July (72.9 degrees), August (74.8 degrees), September (72.1 degrees) were all above average.
If you had to compare it, the sea surface temperatures you experienced this season were more like an average season for Virginia b each. Aug. 16 and 17 were the warmest water days, staying above 80 degrees. June 1 had the coldest water, staying below 60 degrees. No surprise there, as the sun is trying to heat up the water.
Joe Martucci, a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist and Digital Meteorologist, is the President and Director of Meteorology for Cup A Joe Weather and Drone. You can connect with him at cupajoe.live.
Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company’s open house offers families a night of fun and fire safety
Family Tides
By Madison Russ
From climbing into fire trucks to spraying real hoses, families can enjoy hands-on fun when the bargaintown Volunteer Fire company #2 opens its doors for its annual open house on Monday, Oct. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m.
the bargaintown Volunteer Fire company. “We had such a great response the first year, and we’ve gotten great responses every year after.”
During the open house, visitors can tour the fire station, including its 9/11 memorial, which features a piece of recovered steel from ground zero of the World trade center, and explore fire engine, rescue vehicle and forest fire truck displays. the event will also offer opportunities to learn about the company’s Fire Auxiliary and its community fundraisers, as well as enter a raffle for a YetI
cooler, with proceeds supporting the department.
t he free community event welcomes neighbors of all ages to enjoy family-friendly activities, learn about fire safety and meet the firefighters who serve their community. Since launching the open house in 2021, the event has provided an opportunity for firefighters to connect with residents and highlight their work in a fun, interactive way.
“ this kind of started a few years ago as a way for us to just get out and interact with the community,” said Anthony colacurcio, lieutenant with
Kids can look forward to climbing aboard fire trucks and spraying water from a real hose, among other kid-friendly activities. Smokey b ear and Sparky the Fire Dog will make special appearances, and compli -
mentary food and drinks will be available.
“ the kids love getting in the fire trucks and getting pictures in the fire trucks — so we have a lot of fun doing that. All of this is also sort of focused around fire prevention and helping kids and children understand that ‘Hey, this guy in this equipment, if you see him, he’s not scary. He’s here to help you,'" colacurcio said.
While climbing aboard a fire truck and exploring the gear is always a highlight, the company’s demonstrations are also a hit, such as a live fire demonstration using a mock room to show how quickly a fire can spread.
“It happens pretty quickly, but the kids love that too. there’s a lot of oohs and aahs,” he said.
the demonstration can also be a useful starting point for conversations between parents and kids about what to do if there’s a fire at home.
“I do think that the scenario of the mock fire room is important, though. Our hope is probably too that maybe some parents go home and talk to their kids and say like, ‘Hey, look, if something like this happens, just get out of the house. Don’t mess with it, don’t try and fix it. Don’t feel bad about it. Just get out and then figure it out from there. As long as you’re okay, that’s what matters,’” colacurcio said.
Visitors will also have the chance to watch a Jaws of Life demonstration, which showcases how firefighters use the rescue tool to free people trapped in vehicles.
“I think it’s important for them to understand all of the things that we respond to,” colacurcio said, noting that beyond fires, they could be called out to accidents, some hazmat incidents or even a child stuck in playground equipment, among other situations.
“ rescue can fall into so many categories,” he said. “Hopefully they’re never in a situation where they need us, but we want them to feel confident that we can do what we need to do to help them if they’re ever in an unfortunate situation.”
Founded in 1932, the fire company is operated entirely by local volunteers who juggle full-time jobs with answering the call to help others.
“We’re 100% volunteer, so we rely on a lot of donations,” colacurcio said. “We just like to get out there and make sure people understand that there is a lot of training and things that go into this, and anything that someone may donate is going to a good use.”
residents can support the fire company through volunteering or contributing financially. And when it comes to donations, “nothing is too small,” he said.
“Anybody who wants to get into something like this, we would love to have new members,” colacurcio said. “We get a lot of support from our community — I can’t thank our community enough.”
Ultimately, colacurcio said he hopes families leave the event having enjoyed the experience.
“Honestly, I think we just hope that they have a really good time, they have a lot of fun [and] they get
to experience some things that they couldn’t experience otherwise,” he said. “I hope they just have an appreciation for how much we care about them, and I hope that they can appreciate us and what we’re doing down there.”
Participants can purchase tickets for the YetI cooler raffle at the open house or in advance. tickets are $10 each or $40 for five and can be purchased through Venmo at @ b argaintownFireDep. Purchasers should include their name, a phone number or email, and the phrase “YetI raffle” in the note. Attendance is not required to win. the open house will be held at the company’s station located at 6550 Mill road, egg Harbor township. For more information, visit bargaintown Volunteer Fire company on Facebook or at bargaintownfire.org.
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.
Remembering Atlantic City’s Captain Starn’s
By Bruce Klauber
When Atlantic city residents and visitors, past and present, talk about the long-gone restaurants they miss, a few names invariably surface again and again.
certainly there’s Lou’s in Ventnor, profiled several times in these pages, followed by Zaberers and perhaps Hackney’s. but unquestionably at the top of the list of fondly remembered eateries in the city is captain Starn’s.
Visiting the impressively renovated Inlet section of the city today, it’s hard to believe there were once two ultra-popular restaurants on the northern end of the boardwalk: captain Starn’s and Hackney’s. both were in business for decades.
Starn’s, which could seat 750 guests, was smaller than Hackney’s,
which could seat more than 3,000. b ut Starn’s was much more than a restaurant. In addition to the great seafood – and having visited there when I was a child, I remember the food being great – Starn’s was also an amusement pier of sorts and a major tourist destination.
four-star stuffed flounder and broiled Alaskan crab, but it was the atmosphere that kept the place packed.”
It was such a popular fixture during its run, roughly from 1940 to 1979, that there was even a trolley service that ran directly to Starn’s from Longport.
Writer Jim Waltzer highlighted the restaurant’s other attractions in a 2005 article for Atlantic city Weekly.
“A fleet of sailboats and motorboats provided sightseeing excursions round the island,” Waltzer wrote. “A seaplane took the courageous on thrill rides, ending its run with a nerve-wracking dive into the ocean. Starn’s may have offered a
And yes, there was a c aptain Starn.
clarence Starn, born in 1890, began his career around 1912 as a deep-sea charter boat captain, running fishing trips and ocean cruises from a sailboat docked at the Pennsylvania r ailroad pier in Atlantic city’s Inlet section. He later purchased the pier, grew his business and eventually opened captain Starn’s restaurant and boating center in June 1940.
History shows he was quite the adventurer, storyteller and businessman. At one time, he was a pilot
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for eastern Airlines and eventually owned his own plane.
About 11 years after the restaurant opened, he was honored by Anheuser- busch as budweiser’s leading seller in Atlantic city. budweiser brought its famous clydesdale horses to captain Starn’s to celebrate. but it’s been said that his proudest accomplishment came in April 1922, when his crew, aboard the fishing boat W.F. Favorite, caught a 1,780-pound basking shark. A photo of Starn and the shark hung in the restaurant for years.
rides and other attractions aside, what drew generations of families –who often stood in line for close to an hour – was the food. “Fresh” was the byword for 39 years, and Starn’s even had an in-house fish market to ensure it.
t he menu, which noted that all dishes were cooked to order and required a 30-minute wait, was extensive, and the prices were remarkably reasonable. For example, a 1955 menu listed the famed fried seafood combo – shrimp, oysters, scallops, deviled clams and fish fillet – for $2.75. For a dollar more, diners could order a Double Deck Lobster Platter, consisting of two 1-pound lobsters with drawn butter (bread and butter included). At the time, you couldn’t beat that.
A tragic event early in the restaurant’s history almost destroyed the thriving business. the hurricane of Sept. 14, 1944 brought 91 mph winds, torrential rain and destruction to Atlantic city, including severe damage to homes, hotels, amusement piers, the b oardwalk itself and c aptain Starn’s. but Starn’s emerged from the storm bigger and better than ever.
Indicative of its enduring popularity is a Facebook group dedicated to memories of the venue from those who worked there and those who visited. Four posts, in particular, personify the Starn’s experience:
Bruce Egnor: “My father, captain eddie egnor, ran the captain Starn’s boats for fishing trips, half and full days, and special charter trips. He was there from the mid-1950s until they closed permanently. I, as well as many of my siblings, cousins and some friends, worked there over many years in the 1960s and 1970s. It was an awesome experience.”
Jane Burkhardt Deiner: “I remember coming here in the 1960s, all the way from Long Island! My parents loved it here. I think they found it on their honeymoon!”
Josh Kimmel: “I was born in 1951 and we had a home in Longport. I remember going there all the time. Great memories. Great place.”
Steve Hipps: “ remembering captain Starn’s, I can almost smell the unique aquatic aroma of the whole In -
let area. I can recall getting ‘dressed’ for dinner there when I was about 10.”
clarence “captain” Starn died May 19, 1969. by that time, Atlantic city was in decline. though the restaurant hung on, the one battle captain Starn’s couldn’t win was the fight
against time. there was no longer room in the Atlantic city marketplace for a 750-seat family restaurant – especially one located in an area that had become crime-ridden and unsafe. History had passed it by, and captain Starn’s closed in 1979. Neighbor-
ing Hackney’s hung on for a few more years, but after downsizing in 1963 and suffering a major fire, it was no longer the attraction it once was. there’s no doubt clarence Starn would be pleased with the revitalization of the Inlet area in recent years. Showman that he was, he might have even considered reopening captain Starn’s. After all, anything can happen on the boardwalk.
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.
Depression uncovered: Breaking myths, finding help
By Robin Stoloff
When October rolls around, many of us notice the shorter days, the crisp fall air and the pumpkin spice everything. It is also a month that brings awareness to a much heavier topic: depression. Depression Awareness Month isn’t just about wearing a ribbon or posting a social media graphic. It’s about recognizing that depression is real, common and serious, and that it’s not something anyone can just “snap out of.”
Depression can take many forms. For some, it’s a persistent sadness that lingers day after day. For others, it shows up as irritability, fatigue or a loss of interest in things that used to
bring joy. Some people experience trouble sleeping, changes in appetite or difficulty concentrating. Yet, it’s often invisible to those around them. Unlike a broken arm, you can’t see depression on the surface, which sometimes makes it harder for people to understand, or for those experiencing it to ask for help.
A big misconception is that depression is simply feeling sad or that it’s a weakness. t hat couldn’t be further from the truth. Depression is a complex medical condition influenced by brain chemistry, genetics, life events and other health issues. It affects how people think, feel and function. telling someone to “cheer up” is not only unhelpful, it can also feel dismissive and isolating. recovery doesn’t happen by willpower alone; it usually requires a combination of treatment, support and self-care strategies.
According to recent estimates, millions of adults in the U.S. experience a major depressive episode each year. the National Health Interview Survey finds about one in 20 adults
experience ongoing depressive symptoms. It touches all ages, genders and backgrounds, though certain groups, such as teenagers, women and people facing chronic illness or social stressors, are at higher risk. Depression is also strongly linked to anxiety, substance use and other mental health conditions, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment.
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Depression is a complex and multifaceted condition, and understanding its prevalence is crucial for fostering awareness and encouraging those affected to seek help and support. the good news is that depression is treatable. evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (cbt) or interpersonal therapy, help people understand and change the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their symptoms. Medications can also play a role, helping to rebalance brain chemistry. For many people, a combination of therapy, medication and lifestyle support — like exercise, nutrition and consistent sleep — makes a real difference.
Support systems are critical, too. Friends, family and community can provide understanding, encouragement and accountability that help someone stick with treatment. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is listening without judgment can make a huge difference. that’s why Awareness Month isn’t just about educating the public — it’s about creating a culture where people feel safe seeking help.
It’s also important to recognize the impact of the seasons themselves. As the days grow shorter and sunlight decreases, some people experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression linked to changes in light exposure. SAD highlights how environmental factors can influence mood and underscores that depression isn’t always tied to personal fail -
ure or circumstance. Light therapy, regular activity and preventive strategies can help mitigate these seasonal effects.
Mental health stigma remains a challenge, even in 2025. Many people hesitate to reach out because they fear judgment, dismissal or appearing “weak.” Depression Awareness Month is an opportunity to counter that stigma, remind people that treatment works and encourage open conversations. Sharing stories — whether of recovery, ongoing struggle or support for a loved one — can reduce feelings of isolation and normalize seeking help.
Practical steps for anyone struggling can be simple but effective. Scheduling a conversation with a health care provider, setting up regular routines and checking in with trusted friends or support groups are all actionable measures. If you notice someone is troubled, offering a listening ear, helping them research resources or gently encouraging professional support can be life-changing. crisis lines and mental health hotlines are available 24/7, ensuring that help is accessible whenever it’s needed.
October is a reminder that depression is more than sadness, it’s a medical condition, a challenge, and a reality for millions. It’s also a call to action: to check in with ourselves, support those around us, and create a culture where mental health is taken seriously. Depression doesn’t define anyone, and with proper care, people can regain stability, joy, and connection.
If you or someone you care about is battling depression, remember help is available. talking to a doctor, therapist, or counselor is not a sign of weakness; it’s a step toward reclaiming your life. this October, let’s recognize Depression Awareness Month by making mental health a priority, starting with compassion, for ourselves and for one another.
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 livingwellwithrobin@gmail.com
Five best places to watch a meteor shower
By Ursula Duffy
Have you ever intentionally watched a meteor shower? Meteor showers dazzle the night skies and are one of the most spectacular experiences and cosmic gifts! there are many meteor showers that occur around the same dates every year, with usually one or two days of peak dazzle. Meteor activity can be spotted several days before and after the peak periods too. the scales have recently tipped to longer nights, which means more time to enjoy the stars and the night sky. the best places to see more stars and meteors are areas with low light pollution. Here are my top five places in Atlantic county to enjoy meteor showers, as well as upcoming showers and viewing tips.
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, Galloway
edwin b . Forsythe National Wildlife refuge is a gem for any nature enthusiast, especially for migratory bird sightings. It features over 48,000 acres of protected land and waterways. this tremendous amount of both land and water not only conserves nature, but it also eliminates light pollution. the parking area, the paths around the Visitor Information center, and the Wildlife Drive entrance road are the best viewing spots at Forsythe. the park is closed from sunset to sunrise, so getting out onto Wildlife Drive isn’t possible, but getting as close to the gate as possible will provide the best unobstructed views. be sure to check for any restrictions before heading out. Important information can be found on their website.
North Brigantine Natural Area, Brigantine
the North end of brigantine is a great spot since it’s situated south of Forsythe, extending the reduced light pollution. It’s also a protected area and an oasis away from the city lights. Pick a spot on the beach and enjoy the show above while also savoring the sounds of the ocean. there are restrictions at times depending on wildlife migrations. check the website for important information.
Harold E. Taylor Observatory at Stockton University, Galloway
t he Harold e taylor Observatory is located away from the main campus areas, near the intersection of Pomona road and Duerer Street, which is another prime spot with
reduced light pollution. t here are clear views of the sky, and they host public viewing nights throughout the academic semesters. check the website for additional information and to make your own reservation for free telescope time!
Birch Grove Park, Northfield
birch Grove Park is over 200 acres, and a beautiful escape in the heart of Northfield. With open recreation areas and stretches of trails, woods, and water features, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy nature and get away from the suburban areas and lights. Additional information can be found on the city’s website.
The Longport Point/Jetty, Longport
this is the only place on Absecon Island where it’s dark enough to see lots of stars! It’s far enough away from Atlantic city and surrounded by the Great egg Harbor Inlet and ocean. Pick a spot on the beach or cautiously venture onto the jetty itself, taking in the views and the sounds of the waves crashing on the shore and the jetty rocks.
Upcoming meteor showers and viewing tips
t he fall/winter seasons are packed with meteor action. Meteor showers are named for the constellations from which they originate, and next up is the Draconids peaking on Oct. 8-9. the Draconids will occur as the moon is still relatively full, reducing meteor visibility. the second show in October is the Orionids, which will peak on Oct. 20-21. t he Orionids shower will probably be more spectacular since it occurs during the new moon phase. November features the Leonids, and December features the
Geminids and the Ursids. Peak times are usually during the overnight/predawn hours. However, I usually plan my personal watch times in the late evenings on the peak dates, weather-dependent, of course. the website timeanddate.com is a great resource with an annual meteor shower calendar, peak activity times, viewing tips, and maps. Go to the “Sun, Moon & Space” menu and select “Meteor Showers” for a wealth of information,
and be sure to enter your location at the top of the page. there isn’t much to watching a meteor shower, besides getting comfortable and having patience. It’s best to be seated in a chair that reclines, such as a beach chair, or lying down on a towel or blanket to prevent fatigue or tweaking your neck looking up. Look around the sky, frequently shifting your gaze, and be prepared to see shooting meteors as well as those that start moving slowly and then streak across the sky. t hey can vary from dim and short to very bright and long tracks. It can be a slow night with only a few per hour to dozens per hour, depending on time, location, and the shower itself. the fall, winter, and spring seasons are generally better with the longer nights and clearer skies without the summer haze. Dress in layers if you plan to be out for several hours. If you live in an area with low light pollution, no need to go anywhere besides your own backyard; just remember to keep looking up in awe and wonder! Do you have your own favorite place to watch? email your suggestions (ursaalchemy@gmail. com) and/or comment on the posts featuring this list.
Local fighter enjoys BKFC debut
By David Weinberg
Jeff Lentz’s proclivity for punching led him to a unique and fast-growing sport Saturday night.
t he 36-year-old Mays Landing resident earned a first-round tKO victory as part of the bare Knuckling Fighting c hampionship (b KFc)’s first-ever card in New Jersey.
Lentz, a former mixed martial arts regional champion and standout boxer, defeated New York’s elijah Harris (2-1) at Newark’s Prudential center before an announced crowd of 10,444.
“I’ve been wanting to try it for a while and when the opportunity came, I jumped on it,” Lentz said. “It was a great night and the atmosphere was incredible.”
Lentz has been fighting professionally since 2009. He’s one of the
top local MMA fighters of the last 20 years, having won titles in two weight classes in Atlantic city-based ring of combat and another in c age Fury Fighting championships.
He's also enjoyed some success as a boxer. He’s 5-2 in that ring, with his only losses coming to former I b F world super-welterweight champion Jarrett Hurd and current unbeaten super-welterweight Justin Figueroa (13-0, 10 KOs) of Atlantic city.
“I’m an MMA fighter at heart,” Lentz said. “ b ut if an another opportunity comes in boxing or b KFc , I’m ready.”
About six weeks ago, he decided to try his hand(s) at bare-knuckle fighting.
Founded by Philadelphia’s David Feldman, the bKFc held its first event in 2018 and has steadily grown in popularity.
t he New Jersey State Athletic control board, the state’s governing body for combative sports, just sanctioned it a few months ago.
“Our research indicated that it’s actually safer than boxing,” control board commissioner Larry Hazzard said. “People do suffer cuts, but you
don’t see serious concussions and dangerous injuries like you have in boxing. I didn’t feel any of the tension at Saturday’s card like I do in boxing.
“I was very impressed with Saturday’s show.
the b KFc is a well-run organization and the crowd was outstanding.”
Lentz sought out local help for his prefight training regimen at his gym in egg Harbor township.
Margate trainer rob Fishbein, a Holy Spirit High School graduate, supervised Lentz’s cardio workouts. Former Atlantic city boxer Antowyan Aikens and Figueroa served as his primary sparring partners. the hard work paid off. the bout was scheduled for five, two-minute rounds, but didn’t last that long. Lentz registered three knockdowns in the opening round. referee eric Dali then stopped the fight on the advice of ringside physicians after Harris reportedly vomited in his corner as the result of a concussion.
“It was a tough fight,” Lentz said. “I got cut a few times and I broke a knuckle on my right hand. but I was able to do what I went there to do.”
Lentz, who sold over 100 tickets for the fight, would draw an even bigger crowd in Atlantic city.
Hopefully, the next time he fights, it will be on the boardwalk.
“I’m hoping they bring an event to Atlantic city in the near future,” Hazzard said. “We’d welcome them back with open arms.”
Local boxing update
Figueroa is among five local boxers slated to fight in Atlantic city in the next six weeks.
Margate promoter Larry Goldberg will bring another card to tropicana Atlantic city on November 7, featuring Figueroa and unbeaten Smithville heavyweight b ruce Seldon Jr. (7-0, 6 KOs).
Mays Landing heavyweight rodney b rooks (4-0, 3 KOs), Pleas-
antville lightweight Francisco rodriguez (7-0, 7 KOs), and Pleasantville super-lightweight Jamil Simmons (0-2) will be in action at Hard rock Hotel & casino on November 22 as part of card staged by promoter Alex barbosa.
two other professional cards are scheduled for Atlantic city this year.
North Jersey-based promoter eduana edmonds will hold her first Atlantic city show at Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall’s Adrian Phillips ballroom on October 25.
Millville-based rising Star Promotions will close the year out on December 7 at bally’s Atlantic city. Middlweight thomas LaManna, who co-owns rising Star with his mother, Debra, will fight for the final time in the show.
LaManna (39-6-1, 19 KOs) will end his career where it started. He made his pro debut 14 years ago at bally’s during his senior year at Millville High School, earning a first-round tKO on February 11, 2011.
Local NFL update
Dallas cowboys safety Markquese bell (bridgeton) made one tackle in a 37-22 victory over the New York Jets last Sunday.
Arizona cardinals cornerback Max Melton (cedar creek) missed the cards’ 22-21 loss to the tennessee titans with a hamstring injury.
Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Austin Johnson (St. Augustine Prep, Galloway township) registered two tackles in the Jaguars’ 31-28 win over the Kansas city chiefs Monday night. rookie running back LeQuint Allen (Millville) played special teams for the Jaguars.
chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (Vineland) rushed for 36 yards on seven carries (5.1 yards per carry) and had three receptions for 20 yards.
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.
Jeff Lentz (Photo courtesy of BKFC)
Sweater Weather Is Library Weather
The air is crisp, the leaves are changing, and the library is bustling with activity!
With best-selling books, workshops, children’s activities, and more, the Ocean City Free Public Library has something for everyone this fall.
Visit OceanCityLibrary.org for a complete list of events and resources.
Lucy the Elephant hosts first-ever Trunktoberfest Oct. 18
Lucy the elephant is getting into the Halloween spirit with her first annual trunktoberfest, set for Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the beach in Margate.
the fall celebration will feature a beachfront hayride, pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, inflatable corn maze, face painting, and other games for all ages. A lineup of local food vendors and restaurants will serve seasonal treats, including Ventura’s Greenhouse, Mad Mutz, twist, betty’s, PJ buckets, and tap 58.
Admission is $20 per person for adults and children, which includes access to all activities and attractions. children under 3 are admitted free. Food and beverages will be sold separately. collectible event mugs and shirts will also be available for purchase.
Visitors can also enjoy tours through Lucy the e lephant and browse Lucy’s Gift Shop, both open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
A highlight of the day will be the Fall b aking competition, featuring two categories — apple and pump -
kin baked goods. bakers of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. contest rules and entry forms are available at www.Lucytheelephant. org.
“We are grateful to the city of Margate, the Margate Police, Fire Department and Public Works for their partnership and support in presenting Lucy’s first trunktoberfest,” said Save Lucy committee e xecutive Director richard Helfant.
Lucy the elephant remains open through Oct. 31, offering tours every 45 minutes. Weekday hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and weekend hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrate hispanic heritage with Puerto Rican folk music
The Ocean city Arts center presents Puerto rican traditional music and dance, bomba & Plena, featuring Los bomberos de la calle from the Philly bomba Plena cultural center. the event will be held on Saturday, October 18 at 2pm at Ocean city Intermediate School, 1801 bay Avenue
in Ocean city. event is family-friendly, free and open to the public.
Los bomberos De La calle is a Musical Group who performs traditional and contemporary styles of bomba & Plena music from Puerto rico. For this event will feature all traditional music. they regularly perform and offer workshops throughout the year
in schools and community centers throughout the Delaware Valley. they have performed in the annual Philadelphia Hispanic Heritage Festival,, the annual Feria de barrio Festival, annual Sugar cane Festival, Kimmel center’s “Songs Left b ehind,” the Mann center, and many more. the mission of the group’s parent organization, Philly bomba Plena cultural center, is to preserve, present and educate the community with
the vibrant, energetic and soul music from Puerto rico. this music is the music of the people and brings everyone together young and old.
Visit the Ocean city Arts center website at oceancityartscenter.org for more information and to reserve your seat, or call (609) 399-7628. this program is made possible in part by the New Jersey State council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National endowment for the Arts.
What’s happening in Ocean City
Fall Block Party and drone show highlight Indian Summer Weekend
The Fall Block Party — one of Ocean city’s premier events – will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11 along a mile of downtown Asbury Avenue, and this year a new drone show over the beach and boardwalk will cap off a day of family fun at 8 p.m. that evening.
More than 400 crafters, food vendors and entertainers will line Asbury Avenue between Fifth Street and 14th Street for the annual celebration. the event helps draw tens of thousands of people to Ocean city to take advantage of the beautiful fall weather.
e ntertainers and bands will perform at various spots along the Avenue between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. A few of the perennial favorites include the robert boney band (7th Street), big Daddy (at 9thStreet), String band (13th Street) and Keith Hickman (at 14th Street). Pony rides for children will be available on the grounds of the Ocean city tabernacle (at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendors including Asbury Avenue restaurants will offer food of every variety.
Parking will be free at all municipal lots and metered spaces in the city. everybody in town for the b lock Party is invited to come down to the beach or boardwalk at 8 p.m. Saturday for the drone show. Watch as hundreds of drones in the sky create dazzling images synchronized to music over the beach and b oardwalk. b est viewing will be south of Sixth Street.
the weekend celebration also includes table sales by downtown and boardwalk merchants with discounted merchandise set up between Sixth Street and 14th Street on the boardwalk and Asbury Avenue throughout the weekend.
t he weekend slate of special events continues on Sunday, Oct. 12. Join more than 5,000 walkers for the 18th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of OCNJ — a celebration of courage and hope to end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone. the event starts at 8:30 a.m. with the walk going off at 10 a.m. Participants can get more information and register online at makingstrideswalk.org/OceancityNJ.
the Spooks N’ Kooks Costume
Surf Contest on Sunday will be open to groms, adults and tandems with sign-in at 10 a.m. on Seventh Street beach. entry fee is a $20 gift card to Shop rite or AcM e with all proceeds benefiting the Ocean city Food cupboard. the no-wave date is Monday, Oct. 13.
cash's unique biography to universal experiences through classic hits like “I Walk the Line,” “Folsom Prison b lues,” “ country b oy” and “A b oy Named Sue.” the show is not about impersonating Johnny c ash; rather, it celebrates his life through the incredible
of the month
OCTC celebrates Johnny Cash with ‘Ring of Fire’
A multi-talented cast will perform the music of Johnny c ash in the Ocean city t heatre company production “ ring of Fire” at 7 p.m. Oct. 10 and 11, and 2 p.m. Oct.12 at the Ocean city Music Pier. the theatrical concert features more than 20 songs by the legendary artist. " ring of Fire" takes you on a journey through c ash's struggles and successes, exploring themes of love and redemption. With a talented ensemble of five singers and musicians, the production connects
musicianship of the performers, providing a lively and engaging musical experience.
tickets are $20 and available at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com and at the door before the shows.
Fire department invites all to open house on Thursday the Ocean city Fire Department and IAFF Local 4032 will hold their annual Open House at the station at 550 Asbury Avenue from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on thursday, Oct. 9, 2025.
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9, 2025
OCEAN CITY
Fall Block Party
this year’s campaign, coinciding with National Fire Prevention Week, is themed “charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion batteries in Your Home” and will educate everyone about using these batteries safely. the campaign stresses how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries. Local 4032 members will be having a helicopter landing from JeffStAt, a presentation on electrical safety from Atlantic city electric, as well as showcasing their fire suppression capabilities with a live-burn demonstration.
that are shared and accessible by all churches in Ocean city. t he Food cupboard provides food/supplies to people throughout our community. the event is aimed at helping stock the food cupboard for the upcoming holiday season.
everybody is encouraged to make donations 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at either Ocean city AcM e Supermarket location (800 West Avenue or 3428 Simpson Ave). Ocean city will park a police pickup truck in front of each AcM e , and accept donations of non-perishable goods. At the end of the day, the OcPD will deliver all donations to the ecumenical Food
‘Faith and Blue’ food drive on Sunday
t he Ocean city Police Department and the Ocean city ecumenical council are seeking donations of food and supplies on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025 as part of a nationwide program called "Faith and blue Weekend."
Faith and blue is an organization whose goal is to connect law enforcement agencies and our local faith-based communities. Faith and b lue Weekend is being celebrated nationwide from Oct. 10 to 13. this is the fourth year that Ocean city is participating in the event. All participating departments across the country are doing different events unique to their community.
t he O cPD is working with the Ocean city ecumenical council, which runs food and clothing cupboards
cupboard at 8th Street and central Avenue.
Also coming up in October
Porsche Boardwalk Reunion (Oct. 18): Porsches will be displayed from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the boardwalk from 6th Street to 14th Street.
“Hadestown” (Oct. 18-19): Presented by the Octc Junior company, this intriguing and beautiful folk opera delivers a deeply resonant and defiantly hopeful theatrical experience. Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 19 at 2 p.m. at the Music Pier. tickets available at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com.
John R. Elliott HERO Walk and 1 Mile Fun Run (Oct. 19): register today at www.herowalkrun.org. Dog Days (Oct. 25-26): Leashed
dogs will be permitted on the boardwalk from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. All are welcome and encouraged to bring their favorite furry canine friend. Activities for Saturday include dog-specific vendors along the boardwalk, photo-op stations on the boardwalk, and the
Sports & civic center. the parade begins at 3 p.m. and the procession is from 6th to 14th Street on the boardwalk. this year’s grand marshals include former Philadelphia Phillie Milt thompson and FOX 29 news anchor Dawn timmeney.
Humane Society of Ocean city’s “Pet of the Year” announcement.
HSOC “Howl-O-Ween” Parade (Oct. 25): Hosted by the Humane Society of Ocean city. contestants are encouraged to dress themselves and their pooch in zany, fun Halloween costumes in the spirit of the season. registration begins at 2 p.m. at the
Halloween Costume Skate (Oct. 25): t he Ocean c ity Skate Park at Fifth Street and Asbury Avenue will celebrate Halloween 4 p.m. to dusk. Skateboarders are invited to come dressed for the holiday. there will be prizes for best costume and best trick, and candy for the participants.
OC Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Welcome Night (Oct. 29): 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean city Sports & civic center. Meet Oc groups, businesses and organizations. Free event.
Halloween Parade (Oct. 30): 7:15 p.m. on Asbury Ave. from 6th – 11th Street. Sponsored by the Ocean city exchange club. For more information, visit ochp.blogspot.com.
Photo credit: Donald B Kravitz
Photo credit: Donald B Kravitz
HERO Campaign to hold 25th Anniversary HERO Walk in Ocean City
The John r elliott
H erO campaign for Designated Drivers will hold its 25th Anniversary H erO Walk on Sunday, Oct. 19 on the Ocean city boardwalk.
More than 350 supporters and victim families are expected for the event, which raises funds and awareness for the nonprofit campaign and its mission to prevent drunk driving by promoting the use
of safe and responsible designated drivers.
Scores of area high school students will be among the participants
for the walk, which begins with registration at 9:30 a.m. in the 6th Street civic center. A one-mile fun run kicks off at 10 a.m. and a memorial ceremony for victims of DUI will be held at 10:30 a.m. the 5K H erO Walk starts at 11 a.m. to pre-register, go to www.herowalkrun.org. Adult pre-registration is $25 and $15 for students, including a commemorative 25th anniversary H erO tee shirt. Dayof registration is an additional $10. Face painting will be offered and 25th Anniversary HerO logowear will be on sale
At the 10:30 a.m. memorial ceremony, a moment of silence will be
observed to honor the memories of victims of drunk driving crashes, whose pictures will be displayed on a memory banner. Miss Night in Venice 2025 Giuliana Guardascione will lead the parade of walkers at 11:00 a.m.
H erO police cruisers from 20 police departments, wrapped with the H erO message promoting designated driving will be on display, along with the first-ever H erO tow truck.
Owned by courthouse towing of Marmora, the H erO truck provides towing services for the Garden State
Parkway and Atlantic city e xpressway, including the impounding of the vehicles of DUI offenders under John’s Law, named after Navy ensign John elliott.
the new H erO tow truck will be on display at the H erO Walk the H erO c ampaign promotes the use of safe and sober designated drivers in partnership with schools and colleges, police departments, bar and tavern owners, highway safety agencies, and NFL and Major League baseball teams.
HERO tow truck helps prevent drunk driving
Bill and Muriel elliott never imagined that a tow truck would be a symbol of their 25-year mission to prevent drunk driving in memory of their fallen son.
t he 35-foot flatbed truck, wrapped with the bright blue and gold symbols of the John r elliott H erO campaign, now reminds motorists to always have a designated driver whenever they have been drinking alcohol. It also serves as a cautionary warning that their vehicles could end up on the back of the truck if they have been arrested for DUI under New Jersey’s “John’s Law.” t he “H erO” tow truck was the brainchild of Patrick Aiken, owner and operator of courthouse towing in Marmora, N.J., and a longtime supporter of the H erO campaign.
“If they don’t heed our helpful reminder to use a designated driver, then we might see them later when we tow their car after they’ve been arrested,” Aiken said. His company is the official towing operator for large sections of the Garden State Parkway and the Atlantic city e xpressway, where hundreds of arrests are made — and cars are towed — annually under John’s Law.
earlier but was released into the care of a friend—who, instead of taking him home safely, allowed him to get back behind the wheel. In a head-on collision 30 minutes later, the driver killed himself and ensign elliott, who was driving home from Annapolis for his mother’s birthday celebration.
Aiken, who is also a Lower township police officer, came up with the idea for the H erO tow truck after arranging to have two of his department’s police cruisers wrapped with the H erO message, joining a fleet of H erO patrol cars that now number over 35 statewide. t he wraps are provided by the H er O c ampaign with funding from sponsors, including the New Jersey Division of Highway traffic Safety.
the law, passed in 2001, requires police to impound the cars of DUI offenders for 12 hours after their arrest to separate them from their cars while they sober up. It accounts for over 20,000 DUI car impoundments annually in the Garden State. the legislation is named after bill and Muriel elliott’s son, Navy ensign John elliott of egg Harbor township, who was killed in a July 2000 crash with a drunk driver two months after graduating from the United States Naval Academy. the intoxicated driver had been arrested just three hours
“When Pat first approached me, I thought the H erO tow truck was a great way to deliver two messages at the same time," said bill elliott. “Use common sense and have a safe ride home, or pay the price if you don’t.”
elliott said Aiken is his “ tow truck H erO” for the lives he’s helping save. the H erO tow truck will be on display at the H erO campaign’s 25th Anniversary H erO Walk, to be held Sunday, Oct. 19, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at 6th Street and the Ocean city boardwalk. Fifteen other H erO police cruisers also will be on display at the event, which also features a memorial ceremony for families who have lost loved ones to DUI.
From burgers to steaks — savoring October at the shore
By Lisa Zaslow Segelman
There’s a rhythm to cooking at the shore. On summer evenings, yards and decks are filled with guests milling about with their hosts at the grill. burgers are piled onto buns, hot dogs are pulled off the flames and tucked into rolls, corn on the cob steams in foil and potato salad and coleslaw are served in bowls.
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, this is the menu of the shore because a summer barbecue is quick, easy and made for a crowd. It’s meant for days when no one wants to linger too long in the kitchen when the beach is calling, or it’s too hot to even think about turning on the oven. b ut eventually summer fades. early fall rolls in, and with it comes
a subtle shift. When folks are at the grill now, they might be wearing a sweatshirt instead of a t-shirt while contemplating the age-old question, “Should we eat outside or inside?”
relatives and friends may no longer be staying the weekend, but I still want to grill. Only now I have more time, and with fewer guests, I’m able to kick the menu up a notch.
October is a perfect month to invite year-round friends who had too much company to make plans with you during the summer. Why not invite them for a different kind of barbecue, one that’s more vineyard than vinyl tablecloths? With fewer guests you can bring out some nice plates, candles and real cloth napkins.
Set aside the hamburgers and hot dogs, and reach for something richer with deeper flavors, something that reflects the coziness of fall. consider this time the start of steak season – ribeyes, strip steaks and even filet mignon.
A good steak on the grill feels like an event, and more special than tossing on a few burgers. Steaks also beg for the kind of side dishes that
are the perfect complement to the main event, such as creamed spinach, a baked potato dressed up with favorite toppings, or a pan of mushrooms sautéed in garlic and butter. there’s another shift in fall outdoor cooking, too. Dinner is no longer about feeding a crowd as quickly as possible. We can linger a little longer, sip a glass of wine while the steaks rest and sit down to a meal that is as much about savoring as it is about getting everyone fed. An October table at the shore can feel more intentional, more planned and a lot less stressful than a barbecue for a crowd.
In that spirit, here are some ideas to pull it together with three favorite recipes: perfectly grilled ribeye
steaks, elegant creamed spinach and a guide for setting up a baked potato bar – a fun way to let everyone customize their plate.
this menu is simple, seasonal and the perfect bridge between the easy cookouts of summer and the cozy gatherings of fall. We’ll be inside soon enough.
Grilled Ribeye Steaks
Serves 4
there’s nothing quite like a ribeye for flavor. t he marbling of fat throughout the cut keeps it tender and juicy, especially when it hits a hot grill. the trick is simplicity – good seasoning, high heat and just enough resting time so the juices stay inside. Ingredients
● 4 ribeye steaks (about 1 to 1½ inches thick)
● 2 tablespoons olive oil
● 2 teaspoons kosher salt
● 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
● 2 teaspoons garlic powder (optional)
● 2 tablespoons butter
● Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
(optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. remove steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling so they reach room temperature.
2. rub both sides with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Heat the grill to high.
3. Place steaks directly on the grates. Sear 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, a little longer for medium.
4. Just before removing from the grill, top each steak with a pat of butter and, if you like, a sprig of rosemary or thyme.
5. rest steaks on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil, for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.
Classic Creamed Spinach
Serves 4–6
creamed spinach is the classic steakhouse side dish, for good reason. It’s rich, comforting and pairs beautifully with grilled meat.
You can use fresh spinach if you want to blanch and chop it, but frozen spinach works just as well and makes this dish a breeze.
1. If using fresh spinach, blanch in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain, squeeze out excess liquid and chop. If using frozen, cook according to package directions, and then squeeze out as much liquid as possible. I put mine in a colander and then use something heavy on top to squeeze out the water.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Slowly whisk in warm milk, then cream until thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan, nutmeg, salt and pepper.
5. Fold in spinach and cook until heated through. taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Baked Potato Bar Serves 6–8
Nothing says comfort like a baked potato with toppings piled high. A potato bar makes dinner interactive and fun, especially with steak. It also allows everyone at the table to personalize their plate, which takes the pressure off the cook.
Ingredients
● 6–8 large russet potatoes
● Olive oil and kosher salt
Suggested Toppings:
● Shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese
● Sour cream or Greek yogurt
● chopped scallions or chives
● crumbled bacon
● Steamed broccoli florets
● caramelized onions
● Sautéed mushrooms
● butter (plain or herb butter)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Scrub potatoes well, then rub with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt and pierce with a fork.
2. Wrap in regular or heavy-duty foil. bake directly on the oven rack for 50–60 minutes, until skins are crisp and insides are soft.
3. Split potatoes open with a fork and serve hot, alongside bowls of toppings so guests can build their own.
Lisa is an advertising copywriter (think ‘Madmen’ without the men), journalist and columnist. Claim to fame: Lou’s waitress for four teenage summers. For column comments, story ideas, or to get on her “quote” list for future columns: redshoeslzs@ gmail.com
Great Egg Harbour Township Historical Society brings spooky season and history together
By Julia Train
The Great e gg Harbour township Historical Society (G eHtHS) will be connecting local history to the spirit of Halloween.
On Saturday, Oct. 11, at 2 p.m., the Historical Society will host a guided tour of Zion United Methodist church cemetery in egg Harbor township. the event offers residents and visitors an opportunity to honor South Jersey’s earliest patriots who fought in the revolutionary War while learning more about the township’s role in shaping the country.
the cemetery, located beside Zion Methodist church, is the resting place of 11 soldiers who served during the American revolution. though many of these men were not from e gg Harbor township as it’s known today, they moved and were buried there after the war.
At that time, the Greater egg Harbor area included a majority of South Jersey, all the way toward camden, Pamela tyson, G eHtHS vice chair, said.
the event highlights the veterans’ stories, the hardships they faced and the contributions they made to protecting the South Jersey coastline during the war.
In the 1770s, families in the area often claimed their own burial plots, leading to the creation of small family cemeteries like Zion, tyson said. Despite the dangers of the time, all of the revolutionary soldiers buried there returned home from the war and many lived to reach their 70s and 80s.
t he event will begin with a 20-minute presentation on the history of the Zion Methodist church, followed by a living history portrayal of local revolutionary War soldiers, including Zephaniah Steelman, whose family name remains part of the township’s geography today. Members of the Historical Society will also portray the wives of soldiers, sharing insights into the families’ lives and the challenges they faced during and after the war.
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After the presentation, attendees will have the chance to explore the cemetery, where flags will mark the graves of revolutionary soldiers. Volunteer docents will be stationed throughout the site to share stories and research about each soldier and their family. the event will conclude with refreshments provided in the church hall.
the event is free to attend, though donations to the Historical Society are encouraged to support its ongoing preservation work. contributions
help fund educational programs, maintain archives and protect historical artifacts stored at the Society’s museum on West Jersey Avenue. this will be the first time the Historical Society has hosted a program of this kind. the inspiration came from a recent partnership with the Lafayette c hapter of the Daughters of the American r evolution (DA r), whose members cleaned and marked the graves of the revolutionary soldiers buried at the cemetery.
“It's so wonderful for people to learn more about the impact that egg Harbor township had in our history. We learn a lot about the cities and what the cities all did, but you just don't realize how important the rural areas were and some of these original families that they believed in making this country free, and their commitment to this country, the commitment to South Jersey, the commitment to the boating industry,” tyson said.
There are 11 Revolutionary War veterans buried at the Zion United Methodist Church.
Lucy the Elephant 1881
Entertainment & Dining at the Shore
Top Weekly Entertainment Picks
By Steffen Klenk
Get ready to "fall" for these fun activities this weekend. Festival season is well underway with the Fall b lock Party in Ocean city, “ renaultberfest” at renault Winery and Witch- craft delivering spooks and elixirs in Hammonton. Plus, comedians take over Atlantic city and a drone show dazzles the night sky. read all about it in the top Weekly e ntertainment Picks.
What: Witch- craft, NJ
Where: Paradise Lakes, Hammonton
When : Friday, Oct. 10 and Saturday, Oct. 11
Time: 7-11 p.m.
Website: www.witchcraftnj.com
Prepare yourself for a truly spooky Halloween experience. Presented by Good time tricycle Productions, Witch- craft is a festival unlike any other: a mystical encounter with boos and spirits set with a haunted backdrop. enjoy an array of various elixirs, delicious bites, thrilling entertainment and more. Activities include costume contests, pumpkin smashing, silent disco, performances and wicked characters, with music by DJ Dave Mass. Must be 21 and over to attend.
Get ready for a night of classic rock as Foreigner returns to the Atlantic city stage. this legendary band will deliver an unforgettable concert experience that will have you singing along to their biggest hits. From anthems like
“Juke box Hero” and “Hot b looded,” to ballads such as “Waiting for a Girl Like You” and “I Want to Know What Love Is,” fans will be immersed by timeless melodies and intense vocals.
b lock Party weekend has officially arrived. Over 400 craft vendors will line Asbury Avenue, between Fifth and 14th streets. enjoy a full day of shopping, great food, music and more.
What : Ocean city Drone Show
Where: Ocean city boardwalk
When : Saturday, Oct. 11
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: www.oceancityvacation. com/events-calendar/drone-show/ A drone show has been added to this weekend’s b lock Party festivities in Ocean city. Watch as drones create dazzling images in the sky, synchronized to music over the beach and b oardwalk. t he show will be best viewed along the boardwalk south of Sixth Street.
What : renaultberfest
Where: renault Winery
When : Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12
Times: Saturday, 12-4 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Website: www.renaultwinery.com/ event/renaultberfest-2025-2/ celebrate the fall season at renaultberfest, a two-day Oktoberfest and harvest festival filled with live music, festive food and drinks, grape stomp -
ing, stein-holding contests, lawn games and plenty of family fun. run the Grape Stomp & 5K run, take part in a Paint & Sip session, check out the on-site food trucks and photo-ops, barrel rides with chances to win prizes.
What : Smithville Irish Festival
Where: Historic Smithville
When : Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12
Times : Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Website: www.smithvilleirishfestivalnj.org
b reak out your green and head to the Village Greene this weekend for two full days of all things Irish. the event will feature live music on two stages, along with an Irish market with dozens of vendors, children’s activities, an amazing food court and Irish dancers. Plus, enjoy the sounds of the Sandpipers Pipes and Drums of Atlantic county.
e njoy two full weekends of laughs featuring some of the biggest names in comedy. t his year’s powerhouse lineup includes Sommore, Lavell c rawford, Gary Owen, earthquake, Sheryl Underwood, Don Dc curry, Arnez J, tommy Davidson and more. Don’t miss this unforgettable comedy experience.
What : t he rocky Horror cocktail e xperience
What : the comedy Stop 40th Anniversary reunion tour
Where: Golden Nugget Atlantic city
When : Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12
Times: Saturday, 9 p.m. and Sunday, 8 p.m.
Website: www.goldennugget.com/ atlantic-city/entertainment/entertainers/the-comedy-stop/ celebrate comedy legend b ob Kephart as t he comedy Stop brings their 40th Anniversary reunion to the Golden Nugget Showroom. With decades of experience launching star comedians such as t im Allen and Drew carey, Kephart returns to the spotlight to share his legacy and continued dedication to the comedy industry.
Where: Starlight ballroom at resorts
When : Saturday, Oct. 11
Time: 5 p.m.
Website: www.resortsac.com/entertainment/murder-mystery-show/ Inspired by the cult classic, “ the rocky Horror Picture Show,” this interactive event features outrageous hosts, themed cocktails, or mocktails, and plenty of audience participation. Sip your way through three delicious drinks while enjoying over-the-top performances, interactive games and your chance to join the iconic time Warp.
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.
John Pizzarelli: A natural-born
By Bruce Klauber
As the son of one of the greatest guitarists in jazz history, b ucky Pizzarelli, you might say that John Pizzarelli is a natural-born swinger. the popular and prolific guitarist/ singer, appearing on Friday, Oct. 17 at Somers Point’s Gateway Playhouse as part of the South Jersey Jazz Society’s Jersey Fresh jazz@thePoint Festival has been swinging since he first started playing guitar at the age of 6.
It’s not that he bypassed pop, fusion and rock. It’s important to note that he’s recorded with Paul Mccartney, produced James taylor’s Grammy-winning album, “American Standard,” and appeared on a number of other recordings with taylor. He listened to b illy Joel and b ruce Springsteen while growing up, but he was grounded in straight-ahead, mainstream jazz and the Great American Songbook from the start. Presumably, it’s simply in his musical DNA.
Pizzarelli, who studied formally at the University of tampa and William Paterson University, names Nat King cole, the great and influential jazz
pianist and hit-making singer, as a major influence. but he’s pretty clear that his main influence was his father.
“He was such a good musician, and he was also a good road rat,” Pizzarelli recently told writer Glenn rifkin of boston’s the Arts Fuse magazine. “He was the right guy to teach me everything. He was so well-respected.
“On my first record, ‘My b lue Heaven,’ with my father and me, we had bassist Milt Hinton, connie Kay,
the drummer from the Modern Jazz Quartet, horn player clark terry, and Dave McKenna, that great boston piano player. You can’t get those people unless they like my father,” Pizzarelli continued. “All those things were so important in learning what the business was supposed to be like. It was part of the foundation. And he led me to Nat King cole, which was key.” Pizzarelli’s experiences over the span of five decades of profession -
al playing have been singular. How many players living today can say they played with the legendary clarinet player and band leader b enny Goodman in Goodman’s living room? Pizzarelli did.
“I got to see a lot of benny Goodman concerts in New York city,” he told Glenn r ifkin. “Goodman was a regular fixture in my father’s life. When he did a concert at a theater in Nanuet (N.Y.) one night, he came over to our house afterwards. that was pretty wild. bucky and I opened for benny on a number of occasions. It was quite special to have done that. I actually got to play with Goodman in his living room. It was me and my dad and benny, and we just played in his living room. Amazing.”
though he’s recorded dozens of albums and has worked with everyone from rosemary clooney to the boston Pops, one of the undeniable highlights of his career was in the summer of 1993 when he opened for Frank Sinatra. Pizzarelli wrote beautifully about this precious time in “World on a String: A Musical Memoir,” his vastly underrated 2012 autobiography.
“I was honored to open for him with my quartet in europe and around
the States,” Pizzarelli recalled. “Frank would appear in the wings during our final number, swinging and clapping and smiling. He would come onstage and cheer for us. It was an honor to play with him, and we were thrilled he enjoyed our music.”
So influential was Sinatra that Pizzarelli recorded two albums dedicated to him, “Dear Mr. Sinatra,” with the swinging clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra; and “Sinatra & Jobim @50.” He’s also done a number of “Dear Mr. Sinatra” stage shows.
“Frank has always been one of my main musical influences,” Pizzarelli has said. “I love the way he transforms himself from song to song.”
t he passion, love and respect he has for Sinatra’s music are clear and evident. even hard-boiled critics have deemed his Sinatra projects as “the most personal of all the Sinatra tributes available.”
As a performer, Pizzarelli is grounded in the show business tradition. He’s engaging, funny, witty and he relates to the audience, which is why he’s one of the few in the world of jazz who
has managed to appeal to wide audiences of all ages who may not have liked jazz before they heard him. t hat’s why, in any given month, he can be heard at venues ranging from the posh café carlyle in New York city, to a jazz club, jazz festival or college campus. And though he may be an entertaining showman, he has never compromised. Like tony b ennett, his musical standards
As a superior jazzman who also sings and entertains, John Pizzarelli is in good company, historically and otherwise. Nat cole sang and played piano, as does Harry connick Jr. George benson plays guitar and sings, and c het b aker sang and played trumpet. that’s pretty good company, and John Pizzarelli deserves to be there.
The Rest of the Fest:
are high. every song in his book is, in one way or another, a classic.
t he Jersey Fresh jazz@ thePoint Festival runs from t hursday, Oct. 16 through Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Gateway Playhouse and Gregory’s restaurant & bar in Somers Point. Saxophonist Michael Pedicin Jr. and
the quartet open the festival on thursday at 7 p.m. at Gregory’s. After John Pizzarelli’s show at Gateway on Friday, trumpeter Matt cappy and his quartet will hold forth at Gregory’s at 9:30 p.m. Headlining the Gateway on Saturday at 7 p.m. is guitarist Howard Paul and the benedetto All Stars, followed by singer/composer Paul Jost and his quartet at Gregory’s at 9:30 p.m. t ickets for John Pizzarelli and Howard Paul are available at www. gatewaybythebay.org. Admission for Michael Pedicin’s show at Gregory’s is $15 for South Jersey Jazz Society members, and $20 for non-members. Admission to the Matt cappy and Paul Jost shows at Gregory’s is free.
Lilies of David part of triple indie bill at Anchor Rock Club Friday
Tune In, Turn On
With Doug Deutsch
Regular readers of this column know we’re very supportive of the local independent music scene here. When Anchor rock club head honcho Greg Mungan alerted us to a cool upcoming triple bill featuring Sage t homas, Lilies of David and Johnny Zarfati this Friday, Oct. 10, we were only too happy to write about the show.
An uptempo rock song called “ tangled Up” by Lilies of David really caught our ear; we decided to chat with the NJ sextet. the band consists of Jeremy rotolo (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Dierdra McGrath (lead vocals), emily Alcaide (vocals, rhythm guitar), Michael Pulice (lead guitar), Matt Sonzogni (bass), and Derek Arn -
heiter (drums). Here’s how the interview went:
DD : When did Lilies of David form, and where in New Jersey is the band from?
LOD (replies by Jeremy rotolo): Lilies of David originally formed as a pop duo between Dierdra and myself during the pandemic. We’re really just fans of music. We organically began writing music together and found something meaningful. We went on to refine our sound and add the remaining band members to the project. We released our first single, “Skin & bones,” this past February.
to have a sense of peace, knowing that while time on this earth is limited, it’s still on your side as a sort of teacher, and to have faith in the future.
DD: What does LOD’s future look like, touring, recording, etc?
4PM - 2AM
DD : What would you describe your band’s style of music as, genre-wise?
LOD : Lilies of David’s blending of genres and versatility has really been a staple of our band’s sound – all the way from b ossanova-style pop to commercial pop. While it’s hard to put LOD into a single genre category, we mostly fall into the modern alt-pop/ rock genre.
DD: What bands/artists do you cite as LOD’s influences?
LOD: We find inspiration everywhere. Our musical influences are all over the board, but a common theme seems to be catchy melodic artists such as: the beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Nirvana, Paramore, Fleet Foxes, radiohead, and b illie eilish to name a few. We really love all different styles of music.
DD: Love your song, “ tangled Up.” tell us about how you came about writing that tune?
LOD: Our fourth single, “ tangled Up,” will always be a special song to us. the song was ultimately written about confusion and indecision when facing extremely emotional moments of your life. Sonically, the song uses contrast to differentiate between the verses and the chorus. the verses are more internal and vulnerable, with the chorus being bigger, more aggressive, and external with the emotion. the bridge ultimately serves as a reminder to not rush anything,
LOD: We have two more singles coming out this year, our next being “119” coming out Oct. 9. Lots of upcoming shows in the tri-State area, and our first album coming out next February on Notes From the Underground records. You can pre-save “119” on all platforms here: https://orcd. co/119; and find out when we’re playing live next on our website: www. liliesofdavid.org.
Tune-Ups
WLFr ’s 91.7, Stockton University’s radio station, will celebrate its 41st anniversary 5-10 p.m. thursday, Oct. 16, at their coffee c ampus center in Pomona, with a full roster of live music (bands tbA). We know for sure that rock accordionist Malcolm tent and 1adam12 (Adam berardo) will perform. More details coming next week.
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
New Jersey-based indie rockers Lilies of David will perform at Anchor Rock Club Friday with Sage Thomas and Johnny Zarfati.
2025 MAIN STAGE
Sept. 25-28 & Oct. 2-5
Into the Woods is a musical where multiple fairytale characters, including Cinderella, Jack, and Little Red Riding Hood, journey into the woods to fulfill their wishes, but the story continues to explore the unforeseen consequences and communal responsibility that arise after their wishes come true.
il Verdi still setting the culinary bar at Tropicana
The Casino File
By Chuck Darrow
From ownership to expansion to operational policies, tropicana Atlantic city has undergone countless changes in its 44-year existence. but there has been one constant through the decades: il Verdi, the high-end Italian dining room that is older than any current gaming hall eatery save for the venerable capriccio at resorts c asino-Hotel, which predated it by
3 years.
Since 1981, the restaurant has set the trop’s fine-dining bar with its attention to culinary detail and first-class service that has always emphasized making guests feel welcome and appreciated. b ut like so much else at the boardwalk’s western-most gaming hall, this isn’t your father’s il Verdi.
In 2023, the operation moved from its original, windowless location on the casino floor in the area of the North (hotel) tower to the oceanfront space previously occupied by celibri-chef Jose Garces’ Latin American-leaning Olon. Along with spectacular beach-and-water views came a three-fold increase in size: What was an intimate salon seating less than 100 guests now accommo -
dates more than 300 indoors—and another 60 on the patio. As such, it’s not surprising that il Verdi’s chef, Michael b uckley, fully understands what the stakes are for the kitchen he supervises.
“ t here’s a lot of weight on my shoulders here,” acknowledged the 32-year-old Atlantic county native who also supervises the fare at il Verdi’s next-door neighbor, Ossu Asian tavern. “I feel like all eyes are on me here; this is our flagship restaurant [among those owned and operated by the trop], so we're always trying to maintain the highest standards possible.
“My boss, [e xecutive chef Demetrius Haronis], is always looking to source the best ingredients possible. We don't sacrifice any quality here, so
we really have to showcase that and prove to the masses that this is where they want to come and eat.”
A recent visit revealed il Verdi can hold its own with any high-end restaurant—Italian or otherwise—in a local casino; b uckley hasn’t much to sweat, whether from the food (the lobster ravioli boasts a creamy sauce that falls firmly in the “to-die-for” category, and the crab cake ranks with the Shore’s best), the service staff that can’t do enough for patrons or the space’s cool, modern ambience that is upscale but welcoming and not at all fussy.
Speaking of the bill of fare, this iteration of il Verdi differs from its predecessor, which emphasized traditional Italian favorites. these “legacy” dishes still comprise a significant portion of the menu, but while buckley has one eye on the past, the other is focused on the contemporary dining realm.
“I'd say it’s about half the same,” he offered in reference to the current menu (generally speaking, changes are made two-to-three times a year).
“You can see on the back page of our menu, where the entrees are, it says 'Omaggio a Verdi' (homage to Verdi). So, these are our classic traditional dishes, like rigatoni bolognese or the gnocchi or the veal. And then on the right side it says, ‘ casa
Nostra,’ which is like the new House of Verdi. that's all of our newer Mediterranean-inspired additions."
When asked to identify the item he is most proud of, buckley didn’t hesitate before responding.
“I'd say our octopus. If you're into octopus, that's number-one here. We poach it correctly; a lot of places don't do that. Actually, what I’m seeing in a lot of restaurants is that they're buying pre-cooked, frozen octopus to cut down on prep time as well as costs.” that, he added, isn’t the case at il Verdi.
According to b uckley, there’s something else that sets the dish apart from the pack.
“We have a woodfire grill here,” he said. “ there's no gas assistance. We load it every day with charcoal and wood, and it's started with fire starters. So, you get a ton of flavor from the smoke that hits the octopus. It elevates it and transcends it.”
As for the price points, the room is in line with other high-end casino spots (figure $100-$150 per person with appetizers, cocktails and dessert). b ut portion sizes definitely create value (e.g. the $14 caesar salad is easily enough for two adults and even three).
As noted above, il Verdi has an al
fresco space for the warm-weather months which, b uckley explained, provides another dimension for patrons.
“It’s called the il Verdi Patio. We kind of turned it into an outdoor trattoria in the sense that it's elevated happy-hour food, bar food.
“You can still get the full menu out there, but there is a menu that's curated [exclusively for] the Patio. It's small plates. We do miniature seafood towers, sandwiches.
“Any day that it's nice, you can request to sit outside. there's furniture out there. there's music that's actually different from the music inside, so that it's more like a coastal, ocean kind of vibe. We love to see people sit out there because it's such a beautiful space.”
Incidentally, happy hours are not limited to the Patio. there’s also a daily one—at 5 p.m.--at the bar that, noted buckley, is particularly popular.
“I almost feel like it's the current gold standard here in Atlantic city,” he bragged. “We have a line out the door every day.
“I think the difference with us is that you're getting quality fresh food the same as it is on the menu. We're not cheaping out for happy hour like a lot of places that source frozen product.”
His happy hour, buckley suggested, is perfect for someone who isn’t quite sure whether or not to invest time and money in dinner there.
“We serve the same [dinner] menu items for happy hour, so that guests can get a taste. If they're hesitant about coming in to sit down with us, they can at least try our menu there. It's smaller portions, but it's still that same fresh, delicious food.
However, he warned, “If you're not here by five, I can't guarantee you a seat.”
For more information, go to caesars.com/tropicana-ac/restaurants/ il-verdi.
Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.
DISCOVER THE ALL NEW
SOCIAL SCREAM WEEK
begins
Sunday October 26
Trunk or Treat
Monday October 27
Pumpkin Carving Party
Tuesday October 28
Movie in the Lot
Wednesday October 29
A Night with The Addams
Thursday October 30
Murder on the Menu, Murder Mystery Dinner
Friday October 31
Beyond the Grave Rave
Live & Local Music Calendar
Mimosa Sundays
Lunch & Dinner Everyday
Breakfast & Brunch Fri, Sat, Sun
Thursday, October 9
Atlantic City
Anchor Rock Club
Pass/Go Dance Party
8 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Bar One at Resorts
Karaoke w/ cowboy Kevin
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1133 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
DJ Dahve
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
Shot of Southern
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Egg Harbor City
The Inn on St. Louis
Frankie the Singing bartender
5 – 8 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
Fitzpatrick’s
Music bingo w/ DJ chris
5 – 8 p.m.
650 New rd.
Gregory’s
Kim & Nate
6 – 8 p.m.
900 Shore rd.
Josie Kelly’s toni teschner & billy Walton
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Friday, October 10
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Jeremy Oren
5 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
Sage t homas, Lilies of David, Johnny Zarfati
7:45 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Bar One at Resorts
bar None
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Gary
9:15 p.m. – late 1133 boardwalk
Borgata B Bar
billy Walton Duo
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
Minas trio
6 – 10 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
Out of Spite
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino the Way Outs Duo
7 p.m.
turning the tide
10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Amy Faden Duo
5 p.m.
Priceless
Out of Spite will perform Friday, Oct. 10, at Hard Rock Café. Photo credit: Out of Spite Facebook
10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
the Gab cinque band
5 – 8:30 p.m. the Loop
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
The Wave at Golden Nugget
Flashback Fridays: crystal Ship
Doors tribute. 9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino
Naked Nation
8:30 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Egg Harbor City
The Inn on St. Louis
James commander
7 – 10 p.m.
446 St. Louis Ave.
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
Steve & Joe of the Motts creek
Pickers
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
500 St. Andrews Dr.
Margate
Bocca
Jim Shaw
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Yachtzee band
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
that 70’s band
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s the bumpuses
8 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Denise Miller & Son
7:30 p.m.
217 e . Main St.
Saturday, October 11
Atlantic City
1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino
Jeremy Oren
5 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Anchor Rock Club
club beach rave’s Haunted Mansion
11 p.m.
247 S. New York Ave.
Bar One at Resorts
Gerard esposito
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Gary
9:15 p.m. – late
1133 boardwalk
Borgata B Bar
Dan Jost trio
6:30 – 10 p.m.
Sami eldebs trio
10:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.
1 borgata Way
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Jeremy raves trio
6 – 10 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
Andrew Moorer band
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Naked Nation Duo
7 p.m.
Kristen & the Noise
10 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden
Nugget
Sensamotion
5 p.m.
bar None band
10 p.m.
600 Huron Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Dane Anthony band
5 – 8:30 p.m.
coming Alive
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino
big bang baby
8:30 p.m.
500 boardwalk
Wyndham Skyline Tower
Magic comedy Hour feat. Joe
Holiday
4 p.m. & 7 p.m.
100 S. North carolina Ave.
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
Nicky D’s Prost boys trio
12 – 4 p.m.
72 N. bremen Ave.
Margate Bocca
cJ Sooy
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay the O’Fenders
3 – 7 p.m.
No clue band
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap
that 70’s band
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Fitzpatrick’s
Phil Stocker
5 – 8 p.m.
650 New rd.
The Gab Cinque Band will perform Friday, Oct. 10, at Hard Rock's Lobby Bar. Photo credit: The Gab Cinque Band Facebook
Josie Kelly’s
chris Yoder band
8 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
the royal Scam
3:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
217 e . Main St.
Sunday, October 12
Atlantic City
Council Oak at Hard Rock
e Shawn Quaissanee
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
the Original copy
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Kono Nation
8:30 – 11:30 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Egg Harbor City
Renault Winery
Nicky D’s Prost boys trio
12 – 4 p.m.
72 N. bremen Ave.
Somers Point
Josie Kelly’s
traditional Irish Session
1 – 4 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
the Linda ronstadt e xperience
7:30 p.m.
217 e . Main St.
Monday, October 13
Atlantic City
Byrdcage
Music Monday with Kelli Glover
7 – 10 p.m.
3426 Atlantic Ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Isn’t it Always
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.
Gregory’s
tom Angello’s All-Star Jazz Series
7 p.m.
900 Shore rd.
Tuesday, October 14
Atlantic City
Council Oak at Hard Rock
Sinatra Night w/ b randon tomasello trio
5 – 8 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Patty & bugzy
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron Ave.
Isn’t It Always? will perform Monday, Oct. 13, at the Lobby Bar at Hard Rock. Photo credit: Isn’t it Always? Facebook
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock billy Walton band
7 – 11 p.m.
DJ Johnny Looch
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay Music bingo w/ DJ chris
7 – 9 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Wednesday, October 15
Atlantic City
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
Daddy Pop
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 boardwalk
Love My Baby Cakes
Grassia’s Italian Spices
Stir It Up
Live music with Brother Jay!
Egg Harbor City
The Inn on St. Louis
Karaoke Night
7 – 10 p.m.
446 St. Louis Ave.
Margate Bocca
Live Jazz by b ob & t he b occa boys
7 – 10 p.m.
7805 Ventnor Ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Open Mic Night w/ blue eagle
7:30 – 11:30 p.m.
450 bay Ave.
Crab Trap that 70’s band
6 – 9 p.m.
2 broadway
Josie Kelly’s
Jimmy brogan
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
908 Shore rd.
Events subject to change.
SHOP LOCAL!!!
It’s PET WEEK!!
Here are the vendors for 10/12/2025! Village Trappers Pet Wants
April Made for Kitten Aid
Kibble Cupboard
D’s Cheesesteaks
Springhouse Farms
Harry and Beans Coffee
Batch It Up Bakery
Jersey Jemz and Jewelry
Enlightened Farms
Kay Jay’s Doll Shoppe
Kelly’s BBQ Sauce
Good Dawgs Pickledude And more to come!
Scan this code to learn more about our vendors and our market!
King of the Hill
MBCA Fall Gala honors founder, community activist who started it all
By Scott Cronick
Sometimes, a small favor can turn into a lifelong mission. that’s the case for Gary Hill.
Once upon a time, Hill was pulled aside by his now-husband John Schultz and asked if he would help out a new organization that was forming to help unite midtown businesses in Atlantic city.
that was 35 years ago.
“Well, it really wasn’t my idea, to be very honest,” Hill said. “ t he president, who’s still the president of the M bcA — John Schultz, who is my partner — he decided to put something together with some other
business leaders. there was a very well-known Italian restaurant on New York Avenue called Mama Mott’s. And the owner of Mama Mott’s would sit down with John, who was in business himself with the bar and other things, and they would say, ‘Hey, we’ve got to get this city going. We’ve got to get this midtown going.”
Not only did they get it going, but the impact the M bcA has made over those years is incredible.
Hill was the driving force.
And he loves every minute of it, whether he will admit that or not.
I know. I have been working for Hill for over 2½ years now as he has been grooming me to take over the e xecutive Director position of the foundation. Since arriving there, I have worked with Hill on many events — most of them pull in upwards of 500 people, which is unheard of anymore — and I have learned an enormous amount. I certainly have big shoes to fill.
to say he’s the most dedicated, hard worker I have ever worked alongside is an understatement. His ambition, inner drive and goal to make the M bc A, and all of the organizations he is involved with, succeed isn’t a job for him; it’s a passion. that’s because the events he organizes and the money he raises goes to help beautify neighborhoods, award scholarships to future leaders and make Atlantic city a better place to live, work and visit: the Foundation’s mission statement.
Hill will be rightfully honored 6 p.m. tuesday, Oct. 14, at the M bcA Foundation’s 34th Annual Officers
Installation and Awards Gala — this year titled the best is Yet to come! —at tropicana Atlantic city.
t he event will feature a lavish cocktail hour with cash bar, gourmet, sit-down dinner, music by famed crooner Steven Maglio, a night reminiscing Hill’s storied career by longtime friends and board members including Assemblyman Don Guardian, Lloyd D. Levenson, rich Helfant … and there will be some nice surprises along the way.
Around 600 people are expected to pay homage to Hill and usher in the 2026 board of Directors, which will be installed by Atlantic city councilman Kaleem Shabazz, including new board members Aura Sanchez (borgata), toni b rooks (Golden Nugget) and Scott brown (brown & Mccarthy Insurance Agency).
“ the best is Yet to come” offers layered meanings as Hill looks forward to a “semi-retirement” that will see me assume more of Hill’s responsibilities as e xecutive Director. It is important to note Hill isn’t going anywhere. His love for the M bcA won’t allow him to. What I hope to do is take a lot of the heavy lifting off his plate as he becomes a board member and advisor so he can spend more time with Schultz, whether it’s traveling with their friends or at their second home in Florida.
He will also continue to run the Schultz-Hill Foundation, which promotes and produces arts and music programs in the area, and his tenure with the Miss’d America Organization, which he founded with Schultz, will continue, as well. He also chairs
the Municipal Utilities Authority.
Yes, slowing down is tough for Gary Hill. that’s why he is an Atlantic city icon. Hill’s strongest asset is his amiable spirit and ability to bring everyone together for the betterment of South Jersey.
but the MbcA wasn’t just successful overnight.
Humble beginnings
With Hill tapped to lead and organize things, Irish Pub Owner c athy b urke was instrumental in the M bcA’s creation, plunking down the first $1,000 to get the organization legally structured. A small board of seven members was created, including current Assemblyman and ongoing M bc A b oard Vice President Don Guardian, and the legend began.
“He was working at that time at the claridge when it was a casino back then, and he said, ‘You know, we’re in the midtown area. We should get together and make things happen. Let’s see if we can do something together.’” Hill explained. “So, all of these entities in that area got this going, and we have done a lot of good over 34 years, helping small businesses, big businesses and nonprofits. We have done beautification projects, awarded scholarships and even served as a mediator with the city for businesses who might need help interacting with city Hall with code enforcement, tax appeals. We wanted to have some communication in our midtown area.”
the M bcA now stands for Met-
in all in the region,” said Hill, noting the board has grown to now include more than 20 members representing major companies, casinos, small businesses and nonprofits. “We’ve grown from about 17 members when we started about 35 years ago to about maybe 650, 700 members today. We’re very proud of the growth of the development. the evolution of the M bcA has been outstanding, starting from a few small businesses and growing from there. We have amazing relationships with our casinos, and they’re amazing supporters. We wanted to keep it grassroots because our goal was to build a better living environment, quality of life, help
promote business. Of course, it’s a business organization, but it’s also a community organization. It’s about building relationships throughout the business community and throughout the community in general. And we want to help.”
The best is yet to come
As the M bcA enters its 35th year, it will help beautify an area of Atlantic city that will be announced at the gala thanks to its new “ beautify Ac! initiative, the first of what the M bcA hopes to be many neighborhood initiative projects.
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ropolitan b usiness and citizens Association, but it didn’t start that way. Originally, the “M” was for Midtown. b ut the success of the M bcA made others in the city outside of Midtown want to be part of it.
“One day — knock, knock, knock — one of the legends of Atlantic city, (the late) Mack Latz from the Knife & Fork wanted to come to one of our meetings to see what it was all about,” Hill said. “He decided to come with a very good friend of his, Arleen Dougherty of the legendary Dougherty family (and Dock’s Oyster House). they were good friends being in the hospitality business together. they liked our goals and wanted to get involved and asked, ‘Why are you just Midtown?’ So, we decided to just change the bylaws and make it for the whole city to do bigger and better things and make an impact on the whole city and changed the ‘M’ to Metropolitan.”
Over the years, the M bcA established signature events, including the State of the city in January, when the Atlantic city Mayor traditionally sets a plan for the year ahead; the Spring Scholarship Luncheon, which has raised more than $400,000 and now awards more than $30,000 annually to future leaders; the Summer Mixer, which was recently held at Hard rock Hotel & casino Atlantic city; and the Fall Gala, which will honor Hill on tuesday, Oct. 14.
“We represent residents in our community and, of course, nonprofits, many nonprofits, about 60
The upcoming gala, Oct 14, will be a night that will encapsulate what Gary Hill and the MBCA have done for Atlantic City.
the M bcA will also team with Atlantic county toys for Kids by buying thousands of dollars of toys for kids in need this holiday season and organizing a toy drive that will culminate with a “Stuff the Sleigh” mixer at the byrdcage in Atlantic city on Dec. 15. that will lead to the State of the city event in January, the Scholarship Luncheon in the spring — more than $30,000 in scholarships will be awarded — and a Summer Mixer in August.
And while I may be making Hill’s life a little easier, I know he will always be there to guide the M bcA in the right direction with the best interest of Atlantic city always at the heart of matters.
“I’m very proud of the relationships that I was able to build and will continue to build and we’re continuing to build on,” Hill said.. “And while I will still be a major part of the M bcA, it’s always good time to know when it’s time to go. It’s good to get new blood, new ideas, new perspectives, because they bring something good to the table. I can still contribute, but it’s time to give somebody else a chance to contribute.”
the gala will be a night that will encapsulate what Hill and the M bcA have done for Atlantic city.
“I’m very honored to be able to
get the community Spirit Award, but mostly I’m really honored to be able to be with such an amazing board of directors, amazing supporters, terrif-
ic sponsors,” Hill said. “We’re going to have a great night, a lot of fun, some special surprises that I’m not going to be too thrilled about … but I can
take a joke.”
So, with the M bcA, Miss’d America, Schultz-Hill Foundation and the M bcA, hopefully Hill will find some more time to enjoy “semi-retirement.”
“We’re back and forth to Florida now, and we like to travel,” Hill said. “I lost my mother, unfortunately, last November, and it made me kind of take a step back, it makes you take a little pause and say, ‘Whoa, whoa … it’s time to look at a sunset.”
The MBCA Foundation’s 34th Annual Officers Installation and Awards Gala — this year titled The Best is Yet to Come! — will be held 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, at Tropicana Atlantic City. Tickets, priced at $150, and a table of 11 for $1,500, are available by emailing scronick@comcast.net or going to MBCANJ.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.
John Schultz and Gary Hill
Friday, October 10
Foreigner
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
David Arquette: Screening of SCREAM
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean casino
Yachtly Crew
▶8 p.m.
the concert Venue at Harrah’s
Atlantic City Headliners
Yachtly Crew
▶8 p.m.
the concert Venue at Harrah’s
Sunday, October 12
Atlantic City Comedy Festival feat. Gary Owen, Earthquake and More
▶7 p.m.
Saturday, October 11
Foreigner
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Atlantic City Comedy Festival
feat. Sommore, Lavell Crawford and More
▶8 p.m.
Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall
The Comedy Stop 40th Anniversary Reunion
▶9 p.m.
Golden Nugget Atlantic city
Boots on the Ground featuring Jeff Bradshaw, Abstract Truth
▶8 p.m.
Superstar theater at resorts
The Concert:
A Tribute to ABBA
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean casino
Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall
The Comedy Stop 40th Anniversary Reunion
▶8 p.m.
Golden Nugget Atlantic city
Motown Forever
▶4 p.m. the Music box at borgata
Saturday, October 18
Stevie Nicks
▶7 p.m.
Friday, October 17
Khalid
▶9 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Kathleen Madigan
▶9 p.m.
the Music box at borgata
Donnell Rawlings
▶9 p.m.
the concert Venue at Harrah’s
Jim Whelan boardwalk Hall
Dance Now America Tour
▶8 p.m.
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Jo Koy and Friends
▶7 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean casino
Kathleen Madigan
▶9 p.m. the Music box at borgata
Hairball: The Bombastic Celebration of Arena Rock
▶8 p.m.
tropicana Showroom
Sunday, October 19
Gipsy Kings feat. Nicolas Reyes
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean casino
On Sale This Week
Yungblud
▶Saturday, June 6
Hard rock Live at etess Arena
Tickets on sale Fri. Oct. 10, 10 a.m.
Ghosts, Ghouls and Ocean Views
North Beach Atlantic City gets spooky this October
North b each Atlantic city is inviting visitors to eat, drink and be scary this October with Halloween-themed events at Hard rock Hotel & casino Atlantic city, Ocean casino resort, resorts casino Hotel and Showboat.
Month-long festivities
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City transforms its Lobby bar into a “Disco for the Dead” throughout October, offering themed cocktails, décor and live music. Drinks include the trick-or-treatini, made with tito’s Vodka, chocolate pumpkin liqueur and rum chata, and the casper-rita, featuring Lalo tequila, triple sec, pomegranate and lime juice.
At Hard Rock Café Atlantic City, guests can enjoy a limited-edition b lueberry c hipotle b urger with bacon, brie and arugula, paired with the blueberry Zombie cocktail, mixed with b acardi, triple sec, pineapple juice and grenadine.
Ocean Casino Resort is serving the Wicked Labubu cocktail, a spicy blend of casamigos tequila, jalapeño, lime, agave, blood orange juice and
Ancho reyes, available at the Gallery bar, book & Games and the Lobby bar.
Resorts Casino Hotel
At Bar One , now reimagined as the boo bar, guests will find Halloween-themed drinks, live music and giveaways, plus karaoke, bingo and costume contests Oct. 25 and 31.
Additional highlights include the rocky Horror cocktail e xperience Oct. 11 and 18 at 5 p.m. in the Starlight ballroom. the interactive event invites guests into a world of glitter and glam with themed cocktails, games and performances inspired by “ the rocky Horror Picture Show.”
performances surrounded by candlelight.
On Oct. 18 at 8 p.m., the Hocus Pocus Interactive e xperience brings the Sanderson Sisters to life for a night of singing, games and witchy fun. costumes are encouraged for both events.
resorts will also host c andlelight: Halloween classics on Oct. 24 at 6 and 8:30 p.m. in the Horizon ballroom, featuring live orchestral
Halloween weekend highlights
At Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena , John Fogerty: the Legacy tour takes the stage Friday, Oct. 31, followed by country star tim McGraw on Saturday, Nov. 1.
At Ocean Casino Resort , Nola’s bar & Lounge becomes a haunted pirate haven with themed cocktails
and live entertainment starting at 6 p.m. Oct. 31. Guests can continue the celebration at HQ² Nightclub, where Grammy-winning DJ cedric Gervais performs Friday, Oct. 31, and platinum-selling artist Joel corry headlines Saturday, Nov. 1.
Resorts Casino Hotel will feature the Halloween comedy Show at Ac Jokes on Friday, Oct. 31 at 9 p.m., headlined by reverend bob Levy of “ the Howard Stern Show” and “Opie and Anthony.” the event includes a costume contest with prizes for both best and worst costume — and live on-stage roasting from Levy and fellow comedians.
Showboat Hotel hosts the SinAc Halloween Party Friday, Oct. 31 at 10 p.m. at Island bar and Island Waterpark. the party includes top DJs, a costume contest, prizes for the most creative and scariest looks, and surprise performances.
For full details, tickets and schedules, visit AtlanticcityNorth b each. com or follow @NorthbeachAc
The Boo Bar at Resorts.
Concerts of the Past
Sunshine Park: Mays Landing’s nudist retreat once drew national attention
By Mari D’Albora Dattolo
Ninety-two years ago, Mays Landing made news in the New York times with the opening of Sunshine Park. Located on a riverfront tract on Mays Landing–Somers Point road, it became a weekend getaway for as many as 750 practicing nudist families. Men, women and children stayed in cabins, enjoying natural sunbathing,
swimming, tennis, the sauna, whirlpool and miniature golf. Most people gathered in the evenings before the mosquitoes started biting to play volleyball. Older members watched from the sidelines or played bocce and shuffleboard.
Although the park was for families, it also attracted showgirls from Atlantic city who were looking for full-body tans. crowds were drawn by the $14-per-couple weekend rate.
t he famous nudist park was co-founded in the 1930s during the heyday of the naturalist movement by Dr. Ilsley boone, referred to as “Uncle Danny,” a minister and geologist. He published the first American nudist magazine, t he Nudist, which later became Sunshine & Health. t he magazine was published by his Sunshine Publishing co. the park was purchased in the early 1960s by psychologist Oliver York for $120,000. In its last years, the property drew the interest of a casino owner who offered $2 million. However, a sale did not material -
ize. eventually, neighbors became critical of Sunshine Park and urged township officials to crack down on the facility, citing health violations from overwhelmed sanitary systems. A judge eventually ordered the park closed in 1983. Ultimately, the property was left to be reclaimed by nature.
The language of wine: Part 3
Drink Up!
By David Setley
In the last few articles, I’ve attempted to bring clarity to terms used in the language of wine. I’ll conclude this discussion by diving into terms used to describe the aroma, taste, and feel of the wines we enjoy.
“Mouthfeel” describes the overall tactile experience of wine in our mouths from the first sip through swallowing. t his includes the weight of the wine on our tongues, the viscosity, the smoothness or astringency, and even the temperature. “ body” directly relates to the mouthfeel. You may remember my example of skim milk representing a light-bodied wine, whereas whole milk represents a full-bodied wine. Drink a light-bodied wine, such as a French Gamay, like t hevent & Fils Macon Pierreclos rogue, followed by an Argentinean Malbec, such as the
el esteco Don David Malbec reserve. the Malbec feels heavier and more viscous, while the Gamay feels lighter and smoother. body can be observed in the glass itself. Slowly move the wine around the sides of your glass and watch as the drips roll down. A more full-bodied, viscous wine will form slow-moving, thick “wine legs.” A lighter-bodied wine has fewer legs and is more water-like in the glass.
Another factor of mouthfeel, temperature, refers to the preferred serving temperature of a wine, and is used when describing the alcohol content of the wine. A full-bodied wine tends to have higher alcohol content, making the wine feel warmer in your mouth and throat.
“Astringency” also plays into the mouthfeel of wine and is related to tannins. “ tannins,” scientifically speaking, are a phenolic compound. Phenolic compounds are one of the most significant secondary metabolites (the most important components behind the health benefits and medicinal properties of the plants) and are largely responsible for the antioxidant properties attributed to many “superfoods.” tannins are present in the skins of wine grapes. After harvesting the grapes, they
5
are crushed to separate the juice, referred to as “must,” from the skins, seeds, and stems, called “pomace.”
If a red wine is the winemaker’s objective, the “must” and the “pomace” remain in contact during the next step of maceration, a soaking process where the tannins are gradually transferred from the skins to the juice. the juice will take on the color, the flavor, and the antioxidant qualities discussed above. the duration of maceration depends on how tannic the winemaker wants the wine to be. For most red wines, maceration can
be as short as a week or two, and as long as a month or so.
tannins also add to the flavor of the wine. Prior to fermentation, grape juice is sweet. In fermentation, yeast consumes much of the sugar and turns it into alcohol and carbon dioxide. t he sugar that remains is called “residual sugar” and is a major determinant in how sweet or dry the wine is. tannins have a slightly bitter taste that, together with residual sugar, adds complexity to red wine.
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bitterness may not sound appealing, but think of how tea, coffee, and dark chocolate have bitter components and are still delicious. It is the same for wine.
Finally, tannins give wine an “astringent effect,” commonly referred to as “dryness.” try a Pinot Noir (a relatively low-tannin red wine), a bottle of cabernet Sauvignon (a relatively high-tannin wine), and a bottle of Syrah/Shiraz. A couple Pinot Noir options are the Domaine Valéry Le P'tit renaudat from France, or the Montinore e state Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley, Oregon. For the cabernet Sauvignon, try a cab-based bordeaux blend like La Griffe de b arreyres Haut-Medoc 2018, or try the treanna 2023 cabernet Sauvignon from Paso r obles, california. For a Shiraz, try the Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz from Australia or the truchard-Syrah from california. Pour a little of each and observe them sideby-side. Notice the variations in darkness and opacity from the least to the most tannic. take a few sips in order of least to most tannic and notice the astringent effect you’re experiencing in the more tannic wines.
each wine consumer has his or her own perception of balance. that said, a likely reason that cabernet Sauvignon is America’s most popular wine is that it is a very balanced red varietal. Many cabs are dry, but not overly astringent, medium to medium-high in tannins, medium acidity, and medium in earthiness and fruitiness. two outstanding examples are the truchard cabernet Sauvignon from carneros, california and the chateau Monbrison Margaux from bordeaux (a c abernet Sauvignon-dominated blend).
“Acidity” is what makes white wines crisp and refreshing. tartaric acid and Malic acid are natural elements in wine grapes. Acidity can be realized as a slight tart or sour taste. High-acid wines can cause you to salivate after taking a sip. t his acidic effect is why white wines are generally considered to be more refreshing than red wines. White wines with insufficient acidity taste flat and are less refreshing. For white wine, try a high acid varietal, such as the Nik Weis St. Urbans-Hof riesling from Mosel, Germany or the Infamous Goose Sauvignon b lanc from New Zealand. t hen, grab a lower acid chardonnay, such as Harkan or Sonoma- cutrer from c alifornia. to experience acidity in red wines, use the same samples of Pinot Noir and c abernet Sauvignon from above. Notice how much lighter, crisper, and more refreshing the higher acid wines feel in your mouth. that is the acidic effect.
“ balance” in wine-speak is a reflection of how well the wine integrates these key elements of flavor. It is a highly subjective judgement, as
For a white wine, try the chevreau-Vigneau Vouvray cuvee Silex from the Loire Valley of France. In my humble opinion, it is the perfect balance of fruitiness, minerality, and acidity. the cartuxa evora tinto reserva 2018 is also a perfect example of a balanced white with a long finish. It seems appropriate to close with the wine characteristic referred to as finish. “Finish” is the sensory sensation that occurs after you swallow the wine. every taste element factors into the finish. After you swallow, do you still perceive the wine as balanced? Or does it seem fruitier, more tannic, or too acidic? “Duration” of flavor is a key element of finish. How long does your sensory experience continue after the wine has been swallowed? I hope these explanations enhanced your understanding of the vocabulary used to describe wines and increased your appreciation for the beverage. contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com or stop in the store. Until next time, 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.
Fatal crashes spur plan for more e-bike regulations in NJ
By Sophie Nieto-Munoz NJ Monitor
Tighter regulations for e-bikes could be coming to New Jersey after a series of fatal crashes across the state.
Senate President Nicholas Scutari (D-Union) said he’s worried that amid the skyrocketing popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters that go at speeds exceeding 35 miles per hour, more crashes will occur. “We’re in a new era of e-bike usage … they’re more affordable, they’re faster, they’re more powerful than we’ve ever seen before, and the risks have increased to those on the roadways and more particularly, those that are using them,” he said at a press conference on the steps of Scotch Plains town Hall Wednesday.
A 13-year-old boy died Sept. 24 after his e-bike was hit by a landscaping truck in Scotch Plains, and a 22-year-old died on Sept. 22 when police say he was crossing opposing traffic on his e-bike and was hit by a van in Orange.
two girls on an e-bike were killed in cranford Monday, according to prosecutors, who have charged the Garwood teen driver accused in the motor vehicle crash with two counts of first-degree murder.
Nationally, e-bike injuries rose by 293% from 2019 to 2022, according to columbia University researchers.
Scutari said he’s not looking to ban e-bikes. He said he recognizes they’re an environmentally friendly way to travel, and said he wants to get groups like insurance companies on board with his plan for more regulation.
Kids ride an e-bike in Point Pleasant. Senate President Nicholas Scutari wants new e-bike regulations after a number of fatal crashes involving them. (Photo by Kena Betancur/Getty Images)
He’s planning to introduce legislation in October that would reclassify e-bikes depending on how fast they go and require the state Motor Vehicle commission to create an electric bicycle registration and sticker system. Under the legislation, riders would be mandated to obtain insurance and minors under the age of 17 would be prohibited from operating e-bikes that exceed 18 miles per hour, unless they’re licensed as mopeds.
A draft of the legislation was not available. the Legislature has been on a recess since June 30 and is not expected to return to trenton until after November’s election, when the governor’s race and all 80 Assembly seats are on the ballot.
Some towns like Westfield have already taken action to limit where electric bikes can be ridden. Union c ounty c ommissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded said the county
plans to ban e-bikes at all county parks.
“As a mother of five, the recent e-bike tragedies — especially the heartbreaking loss of a 13-year-old in Scotch Plains — strike very close to home,” Palmieri-Mouded said in a statement.
Scutari also wants riders and drivers to get education on e-bike safety. Scutari said he sees people riding e-bikes without helmets, running stop signs, and driving in the wrong direction on roadways.
t he Senate president warned that parents should be cognizant of how fast and far these bikes can go before purchasing them as if they’re pedal bikes.
“ they go so fast, but they go so far that your child could end up two counties away in New Jersey. You’ve got a 20, 40-mile radius on some of these things. He could be in Manhattan, he could be down the shore, and (parents) don’t know where they’re at,” he said.
Halloween thrills and chills await at Six Flags’ Fright Fest 2025
By Sarah Fertsch
Thrills by day, fright by night – that’s the motto of Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, Ocean county.
Fright Fest 2025, presented by Snickers, will spook, thrill and entertain on select nights from Sept. 12 through Nov. 2 – a stretch of Halloween-themed nights that promise to be among the most immersive yet. this year marks the 33rd annual Fright Fest at Great Adventure. As in past years, daytime hours lean more toward family-friendly fun under the thrills by Day banner, while darkness ushers in the heart-pounding terror of haunted walk-throughs, scare zones and cinematic horror mashups. Following the recent acquisition of Six Flags properties by cedar Fair,
Fright Fest 2025 offers new features and exciting additions.
Roller coasters & rides in the dark
One of the signature thrills of Fright Fest is riding Great Adventure’s roller coasters and dark attractions under the cloak of night. Most rides remain operational. For many visitors, the silhouette of twisted tracks in the dark enhances the adrenaline experience.
For 2025, a noteworthy addition to the ride roster is the Flash: Vertical Velocity, which opened earlier this year. It’s a steel, launched Super boomerang coaster that rockets riders forward and backward through four inversions – an eerie proposition at night when disorienting light and shadows await.
Kingda Ka Resurrection?
It’s worth noting, however, that some beloved rides have been retired:
Kingda Ka has been permanently shut down and removed to make way for a new coaster project, narrowing the nocturnal coaster lineup.
r yan eldridge, regional manager of public relations, confirmed that construction is underway at the site of the former coaster. He couldn’t provide specific details on the new attraction – such as the name or type of coaster – but said a new thrill ride worthy of replacing Kingda Ka is expected to open in 2027.
Some haunted walkthroughs and mazes will cost you extra
For the most immersive scares, Fright Fest 2025 leans heavily into haunted walkthroughs and mazes. Unlike earlier editions when haunted mazes were typically included in admission, this year many require a separate Haunted Attractions Pass.
these spine-chilling mazes include branded, cinematic horror experiences such as “ the conjuring,” “Saw,” “ trick ’r treat” and “ the texas chainsaw Massacre.” Guests who forgo the pass can still enjoy a robust lineup of scare zones and live shows included in general admission.
t he hallmark mazes, “ b ig top terror” and “Asylum,” are wellthemed and frightening. “ b ig top terror” transports guests to a coney Island-style freak show, full of acrobats, clowns, fortune tellers and magicians. the maze uses blacklight, ↘
Continued on 70
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and walkers are given 3D glasses. It features large, empty spaces and several jump scares. Watch out for the pig-man!
“Asylum,” somewhat problematic in its theme, immerses patrons in a mental hospital gone wrong. the maze leans heavily on props and animatronics to evoke horror and question reality. the eeriest section has long, winding hallways through padded cells, some filled with mannequins and others with actors. Fake blood drips from every surface. As you exit the maze, you pass a stationed ambulance. You may question whether it’s for your own throbbing heart rate or for the victim-patients within the set.
Other mazes, like “Wreck cage,” “ the Witches’ reflection” and “Army of the Dead,” offer choices for nightmare fuel, but “ big top terror” and “Asylum” are the most wellthemed. “ total Darkness” evokes panic through absence. Guests are immersed in complete, utter darkness, unsure of who else is wandering that enclosed space with them.
Scare zones: Terror on the pathways
throughout the park after dark, five major scare zones will peddle terror to those strolling between rides
and attractions. As revealed in park announcements, these zones include:
● Plaza de la Muerte
● carn evil
● curse of blackbeard’s bounty
● e xile canyon
● the bloody Fountain
Actors in full horror regalia roam, jump-scare and stalk guests through fog, colored lighting and themed set pieces. During the daytime, these areas morph into less intense hauntings, giving younger guests a taste of Halloween without overwhelming them.
Live shows & stage spectacles
No Fright Fest would be complete without theatrical spectacle, and “Unleashed” is again slated as a marquee production. the show blends dance, music, special effects and more in a 3,000-seat arena. Acrobats, strongmen, dancers and trampoline specialists wow adults and children alike.
Other offerings include a freak show in which a man hangs weights from his eyelids and sticks scissors up his nose.
“ t he Awakening,” the daily unveiling of the monsters, draws big crowds every night. b ehind a Victorian carriage driven by a skeleton figure, scare actors from both scare zones and mazes lunge at onlookers
and terrorize passersby. “ the Awakening” takes place every day of Fright Fest at 6 p.m. in front of the Ferris wheel.
Family-friendly frights & Kids Boo Fest
For families and younger visitors, Kids boo Fest runs on select Saturdays and Sundays (Sept. 13 through Nov. 2). During t hrills by Day, kids can trick-or-treat, enjoy costumed characters and take part in milder Halloween fun without wandering into the full horror zones.
While haunted mazes typically begin in the evening (often around 6 p.m., though some nights may open earlier), these daytime events offer a gentler path into the spooky season.
New this year
Interactive Lanterns are newly updated for 2025 and available for $47.99 at various locations around the park. the special lanterns detect and activate special moments at dozens of areas spread across mazes, scare zones, park displays and even inside stores. this year, the lanterns have also been outfitted with haptic (vibration) feedback.
Don’t want to be scared? consider the No boo glowing necklace. Wearers can take comfort in the security of not being approached by scare ac-
tors. this option is great for families who may have a member who is more cautious but still wants to enjoy the park.
What to expect
For the horror enthusiast, Fright Fest 2025 offers one of the most complete Halloween packages in the Northeast: coasters in darkness, immersive haunted mazes, roaming horrors in scare zones and elaborate stage spectacles.
General park admission includes access to rides (day and night), scare zones and live shows. b ut for maze access, guests must purchase a Haunted Attractions Pass (priced between $35 and $39) with optional express or bundle options to skip standby lines.
Park hours vary. During Fright Fest, many nights run late – some until midnight on Fridays – while earlier in the season, hours may end earlier. to make the most of your visit, buy the Haunted Attractions Pass in advance, especially on busy nights, to avoid long waits or sold-out maze slots. Prioritize marquee mazes early in the night when crowds are thinner. If visiting with children, plan your timing around Kids boo Fest or stick to the earlier evening slot before full darkness descends.
check the daily calendar. Not all nights are Fright Fest nights, and not all attractions open at the same times. e xpect heavy theming, fog machines, blacklight effects and jump scares – wear comfortable shoes (and maybe a spare shirt).
Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or a cautious thrill-seeker, Fright Fest 2025 at Six Flags Great Adventure promises to be a memorable journey through darkness, screams and spectacle. Just bring courage!
Flipping the page to cool-season veggies
By Tammy Thornton
Just as the last tomatoes and zucchini ripen on the vines, we open a new chapter in our gardening journey and flip the page to cool-season vegetables. though October started with ideal weather, we have to admit that, eventually, fall temperatures will prevail. Fortunately, this is the perfect time to plant spinach, cilantro, lettuce, and other vegetables and herbs that thrive in cooler weather.
cool-season vegetables are the stars of the garden twice a year. each of these cooler seasons has a different countdown schedule. the cool-season vegetables appear on the scene for the first time in the spring, when we are desperate for any signs of life in the garden. As soon as the soil can be worked, we can plant vegetables such as peas and spinach, and they can even handle
a light frost. cooler soil may mean that the seeds will take some time to germinate. but as spring and early summer become warmer, these vegetables will grow and thrive. However, the heat of summer will cause them to bolt and go to seed. So the goal is to have these vegetables reach maturity before it becomes too hot. In fall, when summer vegetables have faded, cool-season vegetables make
their second appearance, strutting to the mound like a relief pitcher ready to save the day. b ut the countdown goes in reverse, and now we have eyes on the first expected frost date.
etables will succumb to a hard frost. However, some cool-season vegetables are hardier than others. Most cool-season plants can handle a light frost. In fact, some plants like kale, b russels sprouts, beets, cabbage, spinach, and carrots are said to taste better after being subjected to frost. these plants go into survival mode and convert their starches into sugars as a form of protection from freezing temperatures, giving them a sweeter flavor.
Your seed packet will provide you with a lot of information. certain varieties of vegetables have been developed to handle cold temperatures, and others are fast growers. You can grow a salad in about a month with a mesclun mix seed packet. radishes, beets, and spinach also have quick maturity dates. t he seed packets will give you an indication of how frost-tolerant these particular vegetables are, and how many days they take to mature. If freezing temperatures are in the forecast, and your
In early fall in South Jersey, though the air becomes cooler, the soil continues to be warm for a while longer, aiding seeds in germination. then, as the temperatures drop, cool-season crops – that could not handle the harsh heat of summer – will continue to develop, enjoying fall's “sweater weather.” Now we have a target date to harvest these cool-season vegetables before the first frost. You can search websites such as almanac.com to find the estimated first frost date by zip code. Look on your seed packet to find out how many days to maturity for your cool-season vegetable will take, and count backwards from the first frost date. this will be your target time to get those seeds in the ground, since even cool-season veg-
veggies aren’t quite ready, you can extend the season by giving them some extra protection with mesh garden fabric or tulle.
Hopefully you have been encouraged to keep your garden producing throughout the cooler months. Growing and eating vegetables during their natural season can be very rewarding – and tasty! We would love to hear about your fall garden. Send your questions, comments, and pictures to shorelocalgardener@gmail.com.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
Cool-season herb and vegetables like cilantro and spinach will thrive in cooler weather.
Refer to the seed packets and look for words such as “frost tolerant” and “days to maturity”.
Dog diets: Should you give your pup fruits or veggies?
By Heidi Clayton
Dogs are omnivores, which means that they are able to eat both meat and plants. Most commercial kibble products and treats now contain some sort of fruit or vegetable to use as filler, so you don’t necessarily need to add fruits or veggies to their diets. However, it won’t technically hurt them either.
Fruits and veggies can be good stomach fillers if you are trying to take weight off a dog. the most popular veggie I hear thrown around to take up space in a dog dish is green beans. be careful not to cook them in any oils or sauces if you are looking to avoid calories. Other safe fruits and veggies that are dog-safe include apples, bananas, blueberries, melons,
cucumbers, pumpkins, peaches (not the pits!), pears, pineapple, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Spinach, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower are safe for dogs to eat. However, try to avoid giving them if they have been sautéed in butter or oils, particularly if you are feeding these foods to assist with weight loss. Peas are another very common ingredient in dog foods. they are an excellent source of vitamins A, c , and K, and are high in iron and potassium. I am interested in seeing if the amount of peas used in some commercial diets that were linked to the rise in cases of cardiomyopathy is a real thing or not. Until then, I am not feeding my dogs a lot of peas.
While commercially produced mushrooms like white mushrooms and shiitake are fine for dogs to eat, you should avoid letting them forage for wild mushrooms out in the wild. While most will only cause them vomiting and or diarrhea, who needs the aggravation!
Veggies that your dog should avoid include anything in the onion and leek family. Onions, leeks, and
chives contain allium, which can cause red blood cells to rupture in dogs and lead to anemia. All parts of an onion can lead to this poisoning, so it is best to keep them out of your dog’s diet and out of their reach. While avocados are all the rage in the human diet, you should avoid giving them to your dog as the skin, pit, and leaves contain persin, which results in vomiting and diarrhea. the fleshy insides of the avocado that we eat may not contain as much persin as the rest of it, but it is very rich and can cause upset stomachs. As for fruits, you should also avoid feeding your
dogs cherries. cherry pits contain cyanide, which is a toxin. Unless you are going to remove the pits for your dogs, they do not need to eat cherries. And of course, avoid grapes at all costs.
If you are feeding a commercial brand kibble, most likely your dog is getting some level of fruits and vegetables already in their diet. As opposed to overfeeding proteins, fruits and veggies are perfectly safe to give as treats and very helpful in managing weight loss. If you have any questions, please feel free to email: heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.
Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https:// fouronthefloordogtraining.net
By Eric Reich
Ibelieve that protecting your financial well-being is a top priority. I’d like to share with you some recent research by the FIN r A Investor education Foundation, which highlights certain factors that can increase the risk of becoming a victim of financial fraud. the good news is that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Tips to reduce risk of financial exploitation:
1. Reduce your exposure cut off contact before it starts by taking precautions like declining or blocking calls from unknown numbers, deleting messages from unknown senders, saying no to or hanging up on telemarketing offers, and throwing away junk mail. If you suspect a text message or email is
spam, block and report the sender.
2. Ignore promises of big rewards
t here are no guarantees with investing. Look out for red flags like promises of risk-free investing, guaranteed returns and high profits. b e especially wary if you were solicited for an investment when you weren’t even looking for one. Likewise, competitions and prize drawings, particularly if they require an upfront fee, are often fraudulent.
3. Check out sellers and products
b e alert to signs of imposter investment scams and, before you make any investment, research the seller and the product to make sure they’re legitimate and a good fit for you. You can look up financial professionals using FIN r A brokercheck to confirm whether they’re registered and/or licensed and view their employment history.
4. Stay connected
If you’re struggling with feelings of loneliness, try to bolster your existing relationships or seek new connections in person, rather than virtually. Unfortunately, random contact from strangers online or via text message is all too often the start of a scam.
reach out to family and friends, if possible, whether in person or from a distance, and look for opportunities to participate in community programs and interact with others.
5. Monitor your emotions Don’t make investing decisions in a rush or when your emotions are strong. take time to think things over — or even better, talk over decisions with someone you trust.
6. Practice healthy financial habits to bolster your sense of financial security, develop a budget for yourself and try to build an emergency fund. If you’re not sure where to start, look for money management webinars and/or financial counseling services offered by banks, libraries, and local nonprofit organizations.
7. Increase your financial knowledge
Having a foundational knowledge about financial products and the basics of investing can make fraudulent offers easier to spot. If you have a brokerage account, make sure you know how to read your account statements, and take steps to protect your financial accounts, like adding a trusted contact.
8. Stay informed about fraud the more people hear about different scams, the less susceptible they are, which is a great reason to keep learning. educate yourself about the red flags of fraud and current scams to be on the lookout for. Organizations like AArP and the bbb can help you learn about and track current scams. You can also look for coverage by your local news outlet, or discuss the matter with people you trust.
Where to turn for help:
For questions about your accounts, you can call FIN r A’s Securities Helpline for Seniors toll-free at 844-574-3577. If you think you’ve been the victim of a scam, report it to law enforcement. If you’ve been affected emotionally by fraud, there are resources available to help. Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.
Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations.
36. *Famous onion-domed cathedral's namesake in russia
38. Ingratiating behavior
40. Gobbled up
41. relating to Utah
44. Like exes
46. Violent weather, pl.
48. #13 Across' sacred writings
49. Site frequenters
50. First one on a ship
51. Long narrative poem
52. Loan attribute
53. Heavy metal's Quiet ____
54. e-commerce website
55. Sylvester, to tweety
58. broadway musical about wives of Henry VIII
Solution on Page 82
THEME: FAMOUS WORLD SITES
The top 10 home improvements for fall
Real Estate Matters
By Elisa Jo Eagan
There are many ways to add value to your home, but expensive and extensive renovations may not always offer the best return on your investment. In fact, according to a recent remodeling Impact Survey from the National Association of realtors, it is not always the big-ticket items that pay off when it is time to sell.
t his list includes a variety of home improvements that are ideally suited for fall DIY and weekend warrior projects. each offers the chance to add to your enjoyment of your home today, and add value and market appeal when it comes time to sell in the future. b est of all, these affordable projects offer exceptional return on investment (rOI).
1. Lawn maintenance and upgrades
Ahh, look at those autumn leaves drift by the window. think about how much of your home’s curb appeal is dependent on the condition of the lawn. While many homeowners spend their weekends on lawn maintenance during the spring and summer, in the fall we tend to focus more on leaf raking and removal.
be sure to take the time to properly aerate your lawn and prepare it for hibernation. cover planting beds with fresh straw or mulch and have irrigation systems blown out and prepared for winter.
2. Plant a new tree
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, fall is an ideal time to plant new trees. Fall planting offers an added growing season after the stress of the hot summer months and encourages optimal root growth.
According to the US Forest Service, healthy, mature trees can add an average of 10 percent to a home’s value, as well as providing insulation and energy savings. that means planting a tree this fall could pay dividends for years to come.
3. Upgrade your curb appeal
there are a variety of ways to add curb appeal with simple and affordable upgrades. t hese can include painting the front door (black is a color with high rOI), replacing the hardware, street numbers, mailbox, light fixtures and painting or power washing the front steps.
If you are looking for an even bigger impact, consider having a new garage door installed – it can practically pay for itself in value when it comes time to sell.
4. Upgrade your outdoor space
Fall is the perfect time to upgrade your outdoor spaces and install a firepit for those cool autumn evenings. this upgrade is simple to do yourself and can improve your home’s marketability as part of an overall outdoor refresh. consider repairing, refinishing, or expanding an existing deck or terrace, adding landscape lighting, or having an irrigation system installed for additional appeal.
5. Install an elegant wet bar
We’re not talking about the giant
rec-room bars from the 1970s; today’s wet bars are sleek and chic. You probably have space in an existing coat closet or unused nook where you can fit shelving, a small counter and sink, plus an under-counter wine fridge. this provides a lovely accent and simplifies serving when entertaining at home.
6. Upgrade your closet space
reimagine or reconfigure your current closets for added appeal and user-friendly convenience. Knock out a wall to turn a step-in closet into a walk-in, or borrow some space in the bathroom to create dual closets. Install an updated organizational system in an existing closet for a custom design and optimal space utilization. Add upgraded lighting and finishes for a high-end look and feel.
7. Refinish or repaint cabinetry
If you don’t have the budget for a kitchen overhaul, start with the most prominent visual feature – the cabinets. by just painting your existing, outdated wood cabinets white, gray, a shade of light blue, or even a cheery turquoise, you can totally transform the entire look and feel of your kitchen
at minimal cost.
t his can be a fun DIY project. check online for how-to and design ideas. changing your cabinet hardware will also add to the refresh of your kitchen.
8. Repaint the interior
repainting the interior can have a significant impact on the way buyers see your home – and the way that you do, as well. According to the National Association of realtors’ survey, repainting helps homeowners enjoy their space while also offering a simple DIY way to add additional value. choose from a neutral palette to make the interior more appealing to potential buyers. Or, if you do not have the time or energy to repaint the entire interior, start simple with a fresh coat of paint in the entryway or foyer.
9. Replace outdated fixtures and finishes
If you are looking for a super-simple and inexpensive way to upgrade your home’s interior, changing outdated fixtures and finishes is the way to go. replace mismatched light switches and outlet covers with new, neutral styles.
r eplace old-fashioned interior door hardware with a cohesive, contemporary finish throughout. change out cabinet hardware, update lighting
fixtures and switch out faucets to create a modern look and feel throughout your space.
10. Install smart home upgrades
Smart home upgrades offer the benefit of energy efficiency while you are living in the home, and a “wow” factor when it is time to sell. Our childhood cartoons like “Inspector Gadget” and “ the Jetsons” predicted many of the modern conveniences we have today – and more that are coming soon.
t here are many technology options to choose from. Start simple with smart door locks and lightbulbs, then invest in a smart thermostat and security setup. Plan ahead to ensure all your smart devices work well together for a simpler, more integrated and enjoyable system.
Are you not sure where to start? Ask your realtor for more information or help prioritizing your honey-do list. Discover your home’s current value and learn which upgrades can help increase your resale potential.
For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact
Elisa Jo Eagan "The Real Estate Godmother" (609)703-0432 and Remember..."There's No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!"
The Cosmic Connection with Ursula Duffy
Rising sign horoscopes for Oct. 9-15
Aries: Your devotion to your work, health, and cherished relationships requires attention. be real with yourself about being spread too thin, and pull back on things not ready for fruition.
Taurus: Dedicate time for the creative force within you to take form.
A daily practice that facilitates this process will be uplifting for your body, mind, and soul.
Gemini: Perfecting your home and family situation is at odds with your professional life. Placing more value on that which brings you joy, satisfaction, and balance is most beneficial.
Cancer: Sensitivity about your voice and your roots is stimulated. communicating your feelings is of the utmost importance, regardless of how deep and complex the emotions run.
Leo: the reality of entanglements that weigh you down rather than lift you up is revealed. Pruning is in order, and buoyancy in your attitude and perspective are the results.
Virgo: Simplification and purification are stirring within you. Your needs may challenge relationships and shared resources. take action now or forever hold your peace.
Libra: the value of your solitude is underrated. Dreaming about and meditating on your hopes and personal goals can work wonders for your well-being and your future relationships.
Scorpio: Shrinking social circles and commitments creates more space for dedication to your craft. More time with your muse and focusing on your health are imperative to inner balance.
Sagittarius: Is your work aligned with your authenticity? If it is, dedicate efforts to greater alignment. If it isn’t, the pressure is on this week to make future plans for a better balance.
Capricorn: Your relationship with your public image is shifting, and it’s directly related to who you are at your core. Lean into this dynamic and make the necessary adjustments required.
Aquarius: A call to action to dig more deeply into your personal trans-
formation is incoming. being responsible for personal resources challenges surrendering intimate bonds with others.
Pisces: Firmer boundaries are oftentimes required to focus on oneself. take the time, space, and separation you need to re-center and process what’s surfacing within you.
Weekly astrology summary:
Face-offs between planets this week present opportunities to balance and confront difficulties in relationships, and to embrace the reality checks that surface. Some themes may feel like a revisitation. this is a final invitation to address what’s been ongoing, as the invitation won’t come again for many decades. Some themes may feel brand new, as the planetary dialogue is brand new for all of us alive at this time. Insightful, diplomatic, creative, and powerful lines of communication and breakthrough solutions are possible undertones. this is attributed to Venus’s shift into Libra and the end of Pluto’s retrograde journey on Oct. 13. the harmonious flow of the air element in the cosmos gifts us the intellectual power to seek negotiations, conversations, and resolutions to the challenges that build earlier in the week.
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.
the annual Draconids meteor shower graces our skies this week, peaking on Oct. 8-9. the splendor may be dimmed due to the fullness of the moon. check out timeanddate.com for more information.
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