Skip to main content

SHORE LOCAL | Oceancity | August 20, 2026

Page 1

Free August 20, 2026

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

Catch Surfin' OCNJ Museum Exhibit Off-Duty Lifeguard Saves Child's Life How Boardwalk Rides Make Unforgettable Memories Waterfront Restaurants to Dock and Dine ACBP Wins Lifeguard Championship Galloway Gets New ShopRite


DISCOVER THE VERY BEST DEALS NOW Huge Saving on In-Stock s Inventory


Ice Cream Parlor

Serving Ocean City for Over 50 Years

ENTERTAINING? WE CAN HELP! Eat In

Relax and enjoy homemade ice cream inside our cozy parlor!

Try a few hand-dipped containers and let your guests sample our traditional and our unique flavors.

510 New Road, Somers Point 609-927-4656 325 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd. Galloway 609-652-5252 Open Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Sat. 8am-5pm Sun. 9am-3pm

THIS WEEK'S SPECIALS 8/20 through 8/24

EXTRA LARGE JERSEY TOMATOES

3 LBS FOR

ICEBERG OR ROMAINE LETTUCE

2 HEADS FOR

LARGE LOCAL CANTALOUPE

No time to bake?

Order a custom ice cream cake for large and small parties.

Bring the group to eat-in or takeout their favorite treats. With 30+ flavors, 37 sundaes, and 12 Banana Splits, we have something for everyone. (even dieters!)

EASY IN & OUT EASY IN & OUT

Grab our Pre-Packaged Grab ourHalf Pre-Packaged Gallons & Gallons to & go! Cookie SandwichHalf Packages Cookie Sandwich Packages to go!

RAINY DAY SPECIALS 2pm p - 4:30pm Just mention "Rainy Day" to your server!

AMPLE FREE PARKING A

$3.50 $3.00 EACH

$1.99

FRESH GREEN BEANS

2 LBS FOR

RUSSET POTATOES

5 LBS FOR

LARGE RUBY RED GRAPEFRUIT

Have a large group on a Rainy Day?

Somers Point location is now making subs fresh to order on Randos 10 inch rolls, using freshly sliced Dietz & Watsons meats and cheeses

JERSEY EGGPLANT SWEET PLUMS

$2.50 $2.00

3 FOR

$2.00 2 FOR

$2.00 2 LBS FOR

$3.00

AMERICAN CHEESE ................................................................................................ $ 5 . 2 9 L B SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN BREAST............................................................. $ 7 . 9 9 L B VIRGINIA BAKED HAM.......................................................................................... $ 7 . 9 9 L B BEEF BOLOGNA ......................................................................................................... $ 6 . 9 9 L B N.Y. STATE SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE......................................................... $ 8 . 4 9 L B U.S.D.A. TOP ROUND CORNED BEEF ............................................................... $12.49LB BLACK FOREST SMOKED TURKEY BREAST ............................................. $11.49LB BUFFALO CHICKEN BREAST............................................................................... $ 7 . 9 9 L B STORE SLICED PROVOLONE CHEESE ............................................................. $ 5 . 6 9 L B LEGACY GOLDEN BROWN TURKEY BREAST............................................ $ 8 . 9 9 L B

Enjoy fresh, quality produce at wholesale prices. Santori's has the healthy food your family loves.

Check out our produce specials on

55th & Wes West est Avenue ue • O Ocean City | Call for Hours (609) 398-2207

www.alamodeicecreamparlor.com www.a alamo

August 20, 2026

3


The pause between seasons

Letter from the editor

S

ummer is a busy time for Bob and I. We rush from one thing to the next, often measuring our days by deadlines, deliveries and the next place we need to be. The volume is turned up in every part of our lives, both within Shore Local and our nonprofit, Heart of Surfing. There are more stories to write and edit and many more events to cover. Bob has more advertisers to serve. At the same time, there are surfboards to load, volunteers to organize, families to welcome and waves to catch. Our calendar fills quickly, and one busy day seems to roll right into the next. During the height of summer, it sometimes feels as though we are simply holding on for the ride. Then, almost imperceptibly, something shifts in mid-August. We are no longer accelerating, it's time to switch to cruise control. There is plenty of highway left in the season. The crowds are still here. The beaches are still busy, and there is plenty of summer left to enjoy. Yet the pace begins to soften. For a couple of weeks, there is a noticeable lull — one that is easier to feel than to

explain. The days remain warm and bright, but the season seems to take a long, slow breath before moving toward what comes next. I know that the next season is approaching when the crepe myrtles are in full bloom and I hear the familiar sound of the crickets humming. The sun sets a little earlier, shadows stretch a little longer and evening air begins to carry the faintest suggestion of change. For many teachers and families, the focus shifts to the beginning of a new school year. As teachers pre-

Issue 401

pare their classrooms, families gather school supplies, get fresh haircuts and new shoes in anticipation of the first day. College parents are managing moves, transitions and some difficult emotions. I used to dread this time of year. I'd feel a little sad when I noticed those first hints that the season was slipping away. But now I see this time differently. It is not quite an ending. It is a pause — a small pocket of time between the frenzy of midsummer and the routines of fall. There is something comforting

about that pause. It gives us a chance to look back at everything the summer held: the stories shared, the time with friends and family, and the memories made. It also reminds us to look around while we are still in the moment. Like Ferris Bueller famously said in his 1980's movie, "Life moves pretty fast. You have to stop and notice it." My first instinct is to fill that quieter space with another thing to do. But I am learning that not every part of the day needs to be scheduled. Soon, school buses will return to the roads. Schedules will change, vacationers will head home and the Shore will settle into a quieter rhythm. But not yet. For now, the ocean is warm, the crepe myrtles are blooming and the crickets are singing after dark. There are still beach days to enjoy, sunsets to watch and memories waiting to be made. Perhaps this late August lull is summer’s way of asking us to slow down long enough to notice it — and to appreciate the season before it changes once again.

Peace & Love, Cindy

Established 2016

ng Life at The Southern NJ Shore Celebrating Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com Executive Editor - Cindy Christy Fertsch (609) 705-5323 shorelocalcindy@gmail.com 10 Years!

Publisher Assistant - Julia Train Copy Editors - Holly Fertsch, Julia Train

LOCAL FOR LESS!

Advertising Sales - Meg Perry (609)425-5407 shorelocalmeg@gmail.com Web Designer - Holly Martin

FREE INSTALLATION Starting at

Contributors – Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Brian Cahill, Dave

649

$

Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Chuck Darrow, Alex Corson, Delaney Crawford, Ursula Duffy, Robin Stoloff, Alanna Stoloff, Tynan Hand, Lisa Segelman, Bruce Klauber, Charles Eberson

Per window

Cover photo by Jesse Gardner

Screens Included. Capping extra. Grids Optional. Up to 82 U.I. Other Fees May Apply.

FREE INSTALLATION

Scan to Read Online

, Features, Vide More NewhsoreLocalNews.coo m at www.S our email newsletter every 0 that receiv Join over 9,00

e

649

$

Per window

NO TAXES

Charged

week

Follow us on Thank You to the 80,000 that already do!

4

August 20, 2026


ShopRite is on the move in Galloway Township Business Buzz By Rich Baehrle

O

ne of Galloway Township’s most anticipated commercial projects is taking shape along Jimmie Leeds Road. A new, significantly larger ShopRite is under construction at 501 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, about a quarter-mile east of the existing supermarket at the intersection of Jimmie Leeds and Pitney roads. The project represents a major investment in one of Atlantic County’s largest communities. The Galloway Township Planning Board approved the new supermarket in July 2020. Site preparation began in 2025, followed by foundation work and construction of the main structure. The new ShopRite will encompass approximately 86,000 square feet, making it more than 50% larger than the current 57,000-square-foot store. The additional space is expected to provide wider aisles, a larger product selection and expanded departments. Although the company has not released a complete list of

6

features, newer Village ShopRite stores typically include larger produce, meat and seafood departments; full-service bakery and deli counters; prepared meals; grab-and-go selections; hand-rolled sushi; soup, sandwich and hot food stations; organic products; international foods; and online ordering, pickup and delivery services. The expansion will also provide additional selling space, parking and storage capacity to serve the growing community and meet changing consumer needs. The Galloway ShopRite is owned and operated by Village Super Market Inc., a publicly traded, family-led company founded by brothers Nick and Perry Sumas. The Greek immi- The new ShopRite will encompass approximately 86,000 square feet, making it about 50% larger grants opened their first produce than the current store. market in South Orange in 1937. They later became early members of locations. The company remains ascommercial community. The townWakefern Food Corp., the cooperasociated with the Sumas family after ship’s health care sector has expandthree generations. tive that owns the ShopRite name. ed significantly, led by AtlantiCare Village Super Market operates Village Super Market’s history in and its continued investment in the approximately 30 ShopRite superGalloway dates to 2007, when it acgreater Mainland region. Stockton markets in New Jersey, New York, quired and renovated the former Stop University is another major economic Pennsylvania and Maryland, as well as & Shop building at 401 Pitney Road. and employment anchor, attracting Fairway Market and Gourmet Garage The ShopRite of Galloway opened students, faculty members, visitors there in October of that year and has and supporting businesses. According to the U.S. Census Buserved area residents for nearly two decades. reau, Galloway had 37,813 residents The new development encomin 2020, its highest official decennial passes approximately 15 acres and census count. That marked an inincludes more than 500 parking spaccrease from 37,349 residents in 2010 es. Plans also call for a traffic signal at and 31,209 in 2000. New Jersey’s the main entrance on Jimmie Leeds latest municipal estimates place the Road, along with road widening, population at approximately 38,347, turning improvements, stormwater an increase of more than 500 resmanagement facilities, landscaping idents since 2020 and more than and buffers for neighboring residen7,100 since 2000. tial properties. Galloway also has approximately Two separate 6,000-square-foot 14,300 households, a median age of retail buildings are approved along about 42 and a diverse population the Jimmie Leeds Road frontage. that includes families, retirees, proOne is being developed with the fessionals and college students. Its supermarket, while the second is health care and social assistance expected to move forward after a businesses generated nearly $630 tenant is secured. million in revenue in 2022, demonNo occupants have been anstrating the sector’s importance to nounced for the buildings, which are the local economy. designed to accommodate restauThe new ShopRite and accomrants, service businesses or other panying retail space reflect Village neighborhood retailers. Super Market’s continued investment The developer continues to adverin Galloway. The project is expected tise an anticipated 2026 opening for to expand shopping options, create the shopping center. However, Village employment opportunities and supSuper Market has not announced a port the township’s residential and specific grand opening date. With commercial growth. construction still underway, the suAs always, remember to support permarket could open in late 2026 local businesses, especially small or early 2027, depending on interior businesses. work, site improvements and final Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathainspections. way Fox & Roach, can be reached at The project comes as Galloway 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011, or continues to grow as a residential and by email at richardbaehrle@gmail.com.

August 20, 2026


Off-duty Cape May Point lifeguard rescues 11 year old from ocean

By Julia Train

C

ape May Point Lifeguard Ryan Gibson is receiving recognition for rescuing an 11-year-old girl from dangerous ocean conditions while he was off duty Aug. 12. Gibson, 19, was playing volleyball at the Lehigh Avenue beach with friends after he had finished his shift when he heard the girl screaming for help. She had been pulled into the ocean by rough currents until she could no longer stand. According to a statement from the Cape May Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 6:33 p.m. “Without hesitation, Ryan entered the water and conducted a rescue,” the department said in its Facebook statement. The girl had swallowed water and was treated at the scene by emergency responders, according to police. Gibson sustained minor scrapes and scratches from rocks after pulling the girl onto a nearby rock jetty. Cape May Point Beach Patrol Chief

Ben Swan said lifeguards are trained to look for a flotation device, such as a boogie board or inner tube, when responding to an emergency after hours. But there was nothing available near Gibson. “There was nothing in the area, so Ryan had to make a split-second decision whether he was going to go out with nothing, and we're happy he made that decision,” Swan said. He said Ryan’s training as a lifeguard helped prepare him for the situation, even though he did not have his normal rescue equipment. The Cape May Point Beach Patrol trains together most mornings, and lifeguards regularly practice swimming, first aid and CPR, Swan said. “I think it just shows that we have a courageous group of individuals here that are willing to put their lives on the line when it comes down to it,” he said. Swan said that the incoming tide had created a strong current that pulled the girl too far from shore to stand. What began as a rescue involving one victim eventually grew to five

Cape May Point Lifeguard Ryan Gibson was off duty when the incident occured. Photo credit: Cape May Police Department Facebook people caught in the current, he said. Two bystanders who entered the water to help also became trapped and had to be assisted back to shore. Lt. Matt Gibson, Ryan’s brother and an off-duty lifeguard, also responded and helped recover those caught in the current. Swan said those who entered the water were repeatedly pushed against the rocks and attempted to form a human chain, but were unsuccessful. Gibson got himself and the girl onto the rock pile, where they were able to catch their breath. Swan and off-duty lifeguard Lt. Matt Gibson then helped them back to shore, Swan said. An ambulance from the Cape May Point Volunteer Fire Company also responded. The girl was evaluated by emergency responders, and the res-

cuers were dismissed from the scene afterward, Swan said. The girl remained conscious throughout the rescue and did not require CPR, but she had swallowed a significant amount of water and was breathing heavily when emergency responders evaluated her, the chief said. Gibson said he appreciated everyone who attempted to help. “I really appreciate every single person trying to help in that situation, from the people who called the fire department all the way to the people [in the water],” Gibson told the Ocean City Sentinel. “Just the courage to go out there and try to help me out was very much appreciated.” The Cape May Police Department praised Ryan and Matt Gibson, Swan and the other bystanders who attempted to assist, calling the incident a reminder of “just how unpredictable and dangerous ocean conditions can be — and how important it is to have trained lifeguards ready to respond.” Swan said it also illustrates why beachgoers should heed lifeguards, even when the ocean appears calm. “Most of what we do as lifeguards is preventative action to keep these things from happening,” he said. Julia graduated from Rider University in 2024 with a BA in multiplatform journalism and minor in social media strategies. In addition to reporting on local news for Shore Local, she is a social media strategist for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @juliatrain on Instagram.

Thank you for making us your Local Choice

609-800-3177

barthtaxandfinancialservices.com 8

August 20, 2026


Farmers Markets Atlantic City Farmers Market

Risley Square Farmers Market

Fisherman’s Park Community Garden, Massachusetts & Drexel Avenues Join C.R.O.P.S. for their weekly farmers markets, where you can shop for locally grown vegetables, fruit and herbs. Plus, enjoy free activities and a community garden with harvested vegetables and herbs. Markets are open Fridays through Sept. 18. Brigantine Farmers Market

319 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway Come shop for produce, homemade goods, fresh baked treats, local crafts, and more. It is the perfect way to spend a Sunday while supporting local and connecting with the community. Markets are open Sundays through Sept. 27. Somers Point Farmers Market

▶Fridays, 4 – 6 p.m.

▶Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Brigantine Community School parking lot, Sheridan Boulevard The Brigantine Farmers Market will be open to customers on Saturdays, rain or shine, through Sept. 5. For more information, visit www. facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket. Egg Harbor Township Community Farmers Market

▶Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

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

▶Thursdays, 4 – 7 p.m.

Historic Smithville Village Greene,

Bundle & Save Installation Discount

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Margate Community Farmers Market Photo by Steffen Klenk 615 E. Moss Mill Road Go Green Galloway hosts their weekly Green Market, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates. Markets are open Thursdays through Aug. 27. Margate Community Farmers Market

▶Thursdays, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Steve & Cookie’s, Amherst & Monroe Avenues Explore dozens of local vendors

selling prepared food, baked goods, and more. Parking is available in the lot on Monroe Ave. Markets are open on Thursdays through Sept. 3. Ocean City Farmers Market

▶Wednesdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean City Tabernacle Grounds, Asbury Avenue from 5th – 6th Streets Visit dozens of vendors on the grounds of the Tabernacle, and crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave. Markets are open Wednesdays through September 16. For more information, call 1-800-BEACH-NJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.

Somers Mansion, 1000 Shore Road The Somers Point Farmers Market is open for the 2026 season. Dozens of local food vendors, crafters, and hometown businesses will set up on the grounds of historic and beautiful Somers Mansion each week. Markets are open on Saturdays through Sept. 12. Ventnor City Farmers Market

▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

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

e ing Spac s, Elevating m r Liv sfo n es a r T

Come Visit Our Showroom

Free Estimates

20+ Years Hands-on Experience

6636 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08234 August 20, 2026

609-813-2323

Smartchoicekbf.com 9


Multi-day Events

Events and Happenings

Rip Curl GromSearch

▶7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Seventh Street Beach, Ocean City Calling all groms; Rip Curl is coming to the beach this weekend for one of the most anticipated surfing events of the summer. Surfers under the age of 16 are invited to bring their best surfing skills and experience for this one-of-a-kind event. The top competitors will earn their place in the National Final, where the best of the best will compete for the 2026 title. Registration is open at www. ripcurl.com. Yoga in the Park

▶Monday – Thursday, 5:30 p.m.

O’Donnell Memorial Park, Atlantic City Find your balance with free yoga classes through October. Whether you are new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, these relaxing outdoor sessions offer the perfect way to unwind, recharge, and improve flexibility.

Thursday, August 20 Margate Community Farmers Market

▶8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Steve & Cookie’s, Amherst & Mon-

roe Avenues The Margate Community Farmers Market features over twenty local vendors selling prepared food, baked goods, and more. Parking is available in the lot on Monroe Ave. The market is open on Thursdays through September 3. Longport Hammer Row

▶6:30 p.m.

Seaview Harbor As the end of the summer season approaches, Longport Beach Patrol hosts its annual Hammer Row. South Jersey beach patrols will participate in a multi-mile course spanning the back bays near Longport Bridge. Events will include the Doubles Row and Stand-Up Paddleboard race. Nae Breeks Pipes and Drums

▶6:30 p.m.

William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue Join Somers Point Recreation for their upcoming family-friendly kid’s concert. Bring your beach chairs and blankets for a fun-filled evening with Nae Breeks Bagpipes and Drums, along with a vocal and instrumental performance. Thrilling Thursday Movies on the Beach

▶6:30 – 9 p.m.

Huntington Avenue Beach, Margate Grab your beach chairs and blankets and watch ‘Wicked: For Good’ on screen this Thursday, August 20. Dress up as your favorite Wicked movie character and enjoy food from Tacocat. Plus, mark your calendars for the final Thrilling Thursday movie of the season next Thursday, August 27, with a screening of ‘Despicable Me 4’. Josh Bassett Presents Jersey Magick

▶8 p.m.

Gateway by the Bay, 738 Bay Avenue, Somers Point Rock artist Josh Bassett is a Somers Point native based in Los Angeles and Italy. The South Jersey musician will shine a light on his original music and the musicians that shaped his career. Audiences will enjoy an evening of new rock and Jersey Music Magick up-close. Tickets are available at www.gatewaybythebay.org.

Friday, August 21 Ocean City Walking Club

▶8 – 10 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to meet outside the ticket booth at the Music Pier to walk the length of the boardwalk. Stay active, meet friends, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Weather permitting. Ventnor City Farmers Market

Brigantine Community School, Sheridan Boulevard Stop by the Brigantine Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh produce, homemade food, specialty items, fresh-cut flowers, and appearances from local businesses and vendors. The market is open on Saturdays through Labor Day weekend. Somers Point Farmers Market

▶8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Somers Mansion, 1000 Shore Road Dozens of local food vendors will set up along the grounds of the Mansion, along with crafters, and locally-owned businesses. The market is open Saturdays throughout the summer. Theatre Arts Camp

▶9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ventnor Cultural Arts Center, 6500 Atlantic Avenue The South Jersey Players invite children ages 6-11 years old to their upcoming theater and arts camp. The program will include creative drama and theater arts activities designed to build acting skills for young performers. Registration is required. For more information, call Marlene at 347-920-6399. Puppet Show for Kids

▶6:30 p.m.

▶6 p.m.

▶7 p.m.

10

Brigantine Farmers Market

▶8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

▶11 a.m.

Suffolk Avenue Beach The last major lifeguard race of the season will be held this Friday. The John T. Goudy Memorial Rescue Races welcome regional beach patrols in a skills-based lifesaving event. The competition will include the Doubles Surfboat Rescue, Individual Swim Rescue, Combination Rescue, and Individual Surfboat Rescue. Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point

Open Everyday except Tues.

Saturday, August 22

▶8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Newport & Atlantic Avenues Over 70 farmers, food vendors, and crafters line the parking lot at St. James Church brims offering fresh, seasonal picks, delicious artisan foods, baked goods, beverages, and beautiful handmade wares. Visit vcfm.org for more information. VCBP Goudy Lifeguard Races

along with the Plaid Salmon Horns. The concert is hosted by Tony Mart Presents.

William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue Pack your beach chairs and blankets and head to the beach in Somers Point for an evening of local music featuring the Billy Walton Band

Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Children and families are invited to a special Saturday morning puppet show. Seating is first come first served. Please call 609-487-7403 for more information. Angels in Motion Designer Basket Bingo & Basket Raffle Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 724 Maple Avenue, Linwood Join Angels in Motion for a fun night while supporting an amazing cause and lifesaving work. Tickets are $35 and includes ten games of bingo. Tickets and information are available at https://givebutter.com/ angels-in-motion-april-purse-bingofundraiser-cenroh. For questions, please email aim.angelsinmotionnj@ gmail.com or text 609-214-7090. Ventnor Summer Beach Jam

▶6:30 p.m.

Newport Avenue Beach The Summer Beach Jam concert series presents a Time Travelers De-

↘Continued on 12 August 20, 2026


Lorem ipsum

Use promo Code “SplashSL” for $3 off per person

Ages 6+ with Small Splash sessions for ages 4-6.

NEW IN OCNJ! Sky-High Adventures in our netted playground Great for ages 4-10 with special activities for 1+ “under the net” Full Swing Golf & sports simulator inside Full Coffee Bar & snacks available!

ACTIV I

Book ONLINE or Call to Reserve!

(609) 398-9000 AquaParkOCNJ.com 228 Bay Avenue, Ocean City, NJ Use promo Code “SplashSL” for $3 off per person Book ONLINE or Call to Reserve!

BY: TY

ACTIV I

DOUBLE IN SIZE FOR 2026 SEASON

BY: TY

609-398-9000 TheYardOCNJ.com 741 West Avenue, Ocean City, NJ Use promo Code “SplashSL” for $3 off per person

LITTLE 6 person Tiki Boats Public and Private charters available Restrooms on board ALL vessels

Book ONLINE or Call to Reserve!

ACTIV I

BIG 32 person Tiki Boat

BY: TY

609-398-9000 BeachyTiki.com 228 Bay Avenue, Ocean City, NJ Use promo Code “SplashSL” for $3 off per person

Private charters Up to 6 people included Fun for the whole family Children welcome!

Book ONLINE or Call to Reserve!

ACTIV I

BY: TY

609-398-9000 www.SharkBaitFishingOCNJ.com 228 Bay Avenue, Ocean City, NJ


↘Continued from 10 cades Show this Saturday. Celebrate the music and dance of the 60s, 70s, and 80s all in one spectacular stage performance. Bring your beach chairs and blankets for this free concert. The music will begin at 6:30 p.m. with food and vendors opening at 5:30 p.m. Sketchy Film Premiere

▶7 p.m.

Ocean City Library, 1735 Simpson Avenue Heritage Surf & Sport is teaming up with Rip Curl for the New Jersey premier of the latest surf film entitled ‘Sketchy’, starring world champion surfer Molly Picklum. The premiere

will take place inside the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall, located inside the library at the 17th Street entrance. The event is free and open to all ages. Seating is first come first served.

Sunday, August 23

Egg Harbor Township Community Farmers Market

▶9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

1 Swift Drive EHT’s farmers market is open, featuring dozens of local vendors and businesses, amazing food, local crafters, and more. The market is open weekly through mid-October. Risley Square Farmers Market

▶9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

M&S PRODUCE & DELI

OUTLET 3 3 SEEDLESS

99¢

$

CUCUMBERS People who wantEACH the BEST for LESS shop at M&S

Smithfield

BEEF FLAT $ 9.99lb

HAM EGG PLANTS $ $ 3 3 3.99lb

Iceberg

LETTUCE

$

2.00 FOR 2

TOMATOES 3.00 Jersey

$

Farm Fresh

DOMESTIC

FOR

Large Size

FRESH THIS WEEK!

VALENCIA

SALE PRICES

ORANGE

6

8/21/26 – 8/27/26 2 POUNDS NEW LOWER PRICES!

2.00

Idaho

$

POTATOES 5LB BAG Granny Smith $ BITE SIZE 2.00

APPLES

3 POUNDS

Store Cooked ROAST

▶11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Amherst Avenue and the Bay at Washington Avenue The annual Margate Duck Derby is back, and it’s a floating quack-apalooza. Weights and numbered rubber ducks are dumped into the bay, in a closed course, and with a little help from the current ducks are funneled towards the finish line. Activities will begin at 11 a.m. along Washington Street Pier along with children’s activities, musical entertainment, and more. Prizes will be awarded for the top three finishers. Visit www.margatehasmore.com for more information. The Three Tenors of Rock Opera with the Ocean City Pops

▶7:30 p.m.

Dietz & Watson CORNED

319 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway Shop for fresh produce, homemade goods, fresh baked treats, and more every Sunday at Risley Square. This vibrant outdoor market features dozens of local businesses and vendors. Explore the market every Sunday through September 27. Duck Derby

FOR

$

5

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Angel Gomez, Chris Lysack, and Robert Stahley join forces with Ocean City Pops Maestro Vince Lee for an evening of the most beloved music of all time by Verdi, Wagner, Puccini, and more. These Three Tenors will rock the Opera house with music ranging from Coldplay to The Beatles. Tickets are available at www.oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

Monday, August 24

EHT Monday Morning Madness

▶11 a.m.

Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater at Tony Canale Park

Bring your family and friends and join EHT Recreation for Monday Morning Madness. This week, pack your chairs and blankets and enjoy a Zoophoria Wildlife Experience. Music Bingo

▶6:30 p.m.

Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Test your musical knowledge with family, friends, and great company. Join Longport Library for a fun-filled evening of musical bingo. Winners will receive a special prize. Please call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more. 10,000 Maniacs

▶7 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Alt-rockers 10,000 Maniacs bring their iconic sound to the Music Pier stage. Visit www.ocnj.us/summerconcertseries for more information and to purchase tickets. Produced by BRE Presents. America 250: Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show

▶9 p.m.

Ocean City Beach and Boardwalk South of Sixth Street It’s your last chance to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation with a patriotic drone show over the beach and boardwalk. Hundreds of drones will light up the night sky, creating animations that salute America. The 15-minute show will be held after dusk.

Tuesday, August 25 Concert at the Library

▶6:30 p.m.

Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Join Longport Library for an evening of live music featuring the Package Goods Orchestra. Please call

Wunderbar Block & Barrel

BOLOGNA AMERICAN

BEEF 3.99 $ 10.99lb $

CHEESE

3.99lb

lb $

CHICKEN CHICKEN CHICKEN TENDERS DRUMSTICK BREASTS

$

2.79lb

$

1.50lb

3.69lb

$

CURBSIDE PICK-UP AVAILABLE • CALL 609-383-8323

MONDAY – SUNDAY • 8AM – 6PM Serving the Community since 1991

6020 Black Horse Pike, EHT • 609-383-8323 12

August 20, 2026


609-487-7403 to register or learn more. Senior Dance Society

▶7 – 9:30 p.m.

Somers Point Fire Co. No. 1, 447 Bethel Road Join in the fun and enjoy an evening of dancing with live music duos every Tuesdays. Activities include social dancing, line dancing, dance mixers and more. For more information, contact Sharon at kookiecar@ yahoo.com.

Wednesday, August 26 Ocean City Farmers Market

▶8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean City Tabernacle, Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue The Ocean City Farmers Market features dozens of local vendors selling fresh food, produce, flowers, iced coffee, and other specialty items, along with craft vendors in-attendance. Wacky Wednesdays at Absecon Lighthouse

▶11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

31 S. Rhode Island Avenue Join Absecon Lighthouse all summer as they host Wacky Wednesdays. Free for kids with regular admission. Enjoy crafts and activities, coloring fun for all ages, and new themes weekly, including the Salty Sea, Pirates & Mermaids, and Fairy Tales.

Boardwalk Hall Organ Recital and Tour

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

▶10 a.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City The Historic Organ Restoration Committee invites you to tour the largest pipe organ in the world, inside the walls of historic Boardwalk Hall. Attendees will tour the largest musical instrument in the world and enjoy a recital by Dylan David Shaw who will perform selections on the Midmer-Losh organ. The curator’s tour will start at 10 a.m. with the recital to follow at 12 p.m. Visit www.boardwalkorgans.org for more information. Sunset at Ski Beach Outdoor Concert

▶6:30 p.m.

Ski Beach, Ventnor Soak up the summer fun at Ski Beach this Wednesday with live music and good times by the bay. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening of party favorites by The Exceptions. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a delicious array of food from local restaurants and food trucks, and visit out the on-site vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.

Health and Wellness Overdose Awareness Day Event

▶Friday, August 21, 5 – 8 p.m.

Angels in Motion Community Well-

▶Wednesday, September 2, 1:30 p.m.

The annual Margate Duck Derby is Sunday, Aug. 23. Photo by Alex Corson ness Center, 2 W. Glendale Avenue, Pleasantville The public is invited to attend this annual event that honors individuals who have overcome their battle with addiction while offering support, spreading awareness, and remembering those that we’ve lost. Local community organizations will be on site to provide information and resources to the community. Depression and Anxiety Group

▶Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Atlantic Community Wellness Center 1125 Atlantic Ave. Suite 617, Atlantic City This weekly in-person support

Egg Harbor Township Community Center 5045 English Creek Ave. Held on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at 609-402-6966 for more information. NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶Monday, September 14, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point NAMI of Atlantic/Cape May offers free self-help, peer led support groups for family members, caregivers, and friends of individuals over the age of 18 living with a mental illness. Family Support and Connections groups meet on the second Monday of each month. Please visit www. namiacm.org for further information. Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@ gmail.com.

Rediscover Your Strength. Reclaim Your Freedom.

Return to the moments and activities that define your life. What We Treat • Joint Pain & Arthritis • Sports injuries • Fractures & Trauma • Hand, Wrist, and Shoulder Issues • Foot & Ankle Problems • Back & Spine Conditions

Somers Point | Galloway | Cape May Court House

S H O R E O R T H O PA E D I C U N I V E R S I T Y A S S O C I AT E S Schedule an appointment today to discuss a personalized treatment plan that is best suited to you and your Lifestyle!

609-927-1991

SHOREORTHODOCS.COM Getting You Back ... To What You Love To Do!®

Zabinski · DeMorat · Islinger · Barrett · Marczyk · Greene · Lai · Doran · Lamb · Glass · Krome · Fox

August 20, 2026

13


Growing through art: Creativity, community and healing at Art in the Park Views from the Shore By Brian Cahill

A

rt in the Park has become one of Somers Point's signature community events, bringing together artists, live music, food trucks, children's activities, and hundreds of visitors for a day celebrating creativity at Kennedy Park. This year, when you stop by on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., be sure to visit Shore Physicians Group's Growing Through Art exhibit, where you'll find hands-on activities designed to show how creativity can also support emotional well-being. When I spoke with Dr. Jacqueline Rounds and licensed clinical social worker Darby Fitzpatrick of Shore Physicians Group's Primary Care office in Margate, it was clear this isn't simply another festival display. It's an opportunity for people of all ages to slow down, connect with one another, and experience the healing power of art. Last year, the team introduced an interactive exhibit centered on healing through art, and the response

exceeded expectations. "We almost ran out of materials," Dr. Rounds told me, recalling the steady stream of families, children, and community members who stopped by throughout the day. Rather than simply viewing artwork, visitors are invited to become part of it through four interactive activities that encourage creativity, mindfulness, and connection. Participants can paint a terracotta flower pot and take home a packet of seeds as a reminder that growth often begins with small steps. A collaborative fingerprint tree will allow everyone to contribute to a community art piece celebrating resilience and the importance of supporting one another. Another activity invites visitors to write down a fear, worry, or burden they're ready to let go of before attaching it to a symbolic tree, while a fourth encourages participants to create a dried-flower bouquet representing the people, experiences, and personal strengths that help them grow. Many of the activities are inspired by creative exercises Fitzpatrick in-

Darby Fitzpatrick and Dr. Jacqueline Rounds corporates into counseling sessions with patients. "I use creative expression throughout my sessions because art can help people process emotions in ways that words sometimes can't," she explained. "It's another way for people to explore healing." For Dr. Rounds, the exhibit reflects the philosophy behind whole-person healthcare. "As an osteopathic phy-

The Original Discount Broker Will Meet or Beat Any Others - Total 2% Commissions plus you get the Owner and Top Producer GUARANTEED

COMMISSIONS ROBERT SHAMBERG Owner, VP of Sales

AS LOW AS

2%

Top 99% Producer = Excellent Full Time Service Why Pay More Continuous Multimillion Dollar Winner in Sales For The Same Service? Selling at Top Dollar at Lowest Commission, Saving you Thousands of Dollars Call Today To List Your Property &

SAVE THOUSANDS!

609-335-5711 Cell

RobShamberg@comcast.net The Courtyard at Galloway 28 S. New York Rd (Route 9) Galloway NJ 08205 www.bhhsdiversified.com

Are You Ready to Buy or Sell Your Home Now? 14

sician, we're taught that true health involves caring for the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person's well-being," she said. "Mental health is an important part of that balance." One of the things that stood out most after last year's event wasn't just the turnout, it was watching strangers become friends while creating art together, families sharing an activity, and children eagerly embracing each project. "It was just heartwarming to see people connecting with one another outside of a clinical setting," Dr. Rounds said. In addition to the interactive activities, Shore Physicians Group will once again display artwork created by behavioral health patients and community members who choose to share pieces reflecting their own healing journeys. Events like Art in the Park remind us that good health isn't measured only in doctor's visits or medical tests. It's also found in creativity, conversation, community, and taking time to reconnect with ourselves and those around us. While you're there, enjoy the many artists, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities that make Art in the Park a favorite annual tradition in Somers Point. Learn more about the festival at artintheparksomerspt.weebly. com. Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He also volunteers on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association, the Somers Point Economic Advisory Commission, and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.

August 20, 2026


Upgrade Today to receive a free WiFi thermostat and a bonus premium filter

Get it for FREE with an upgrade

Images are for illustration purposes only. Actual Wi-Fi thermostat, air filter, equipment, and accessories may vary. Promotional offers, financing, rebates, discounts, and included accessories are subject to equipment selection, qualification, availability, manufacturer requirements, and Comfort Now's terms and conditions. Complete details, exclusions, and final equipment specifications will be provided in your written proposal and must be reviewed and accepted before signing the final installation agreement.


Local nonprofit Sole Scholars steps up for Pleasantville students

By Madison Russ

N

early 30 minutes before the doors opened, the line outside the WinSan Center at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Pleasantville already wrapped around the building. Families waited in the August heat,

some armed with folding chairs, as the crowd continued to grow. But they weren’t waiting for a doorbuster sale or concert tickets:

They were waiting for sneakers. Sole Scholars Foundation held its third annual back-to-school event Aug. 15, giving hundreds of local children new sneakers, school supplies and other essentials — all in the span of a few hours. Founded by Pleasantville native and sneaker historian, collector and expert Darryl Glover, the nonprofit aims to help school-age children get a head start on the new school year. Even with more than 60 volunteers pitching in, Glover and his wife, Carmella, barely seemed to stop moving once the doors opened. Following the event, Glover said he was feeling “grateful and thankful” for the response. “It was really amazing to see such a great turnout,” Glover said. “We had a little over 900 kids in total.” Last year, the event drew 522

TIRE AND SERVICE EXPERTS OIL CHANGE

Synthetic Blend $19.99 (up to 5 quarts) Full synthetic $39.99 (restrictions apply) Valid through 10/15/26

FREE WIPER BLADES and/or FREE OIL CHANGE SERVICE with any Brake Job Valid though 10/15/26

10/15/26

registrants from 40 schools across 14 cities in Atlantic and Cape May counties, saving families a combined $130,000 in back-to-school expenses. “My city is important to me,” Glover said. “The people who reside in my city are important to me, and I just want to give back and show them love. But the year-overyear growth has been very huge, and I’m really grateful for the partners who partner with me, the sponsors, the people who donated, but also the volunteers who are giving their time and hands and patience.” For many families, the support offered some breathing room in the face Darryl Glover, founder of Sole Scholars, with his of mounting back-to-school daughter. costs. “For him to turn his passion into when he was a kid. helping the community, I just think it’s This year’s event, themed “Passamazing,” Ashley Ingram said. Ingram port to Possibility,” highlighted health, literacy, leadership, career attended with her daughter, 10-yearold Charleigh Gilbert. pathways, college access, civic en“He doesn’t have to do this, and gagement, community support and he’s doing it,” Ingram continued. “All more. Families could receive free the kids are going to be happy to start haircuts, participate in a basketball school with a fresh pair of sneakers clinic, have sneakers cleaned and conthat their parents didn’t have to buy. nect with community organizations, And that can help the parent put that among several other activities. money toward something else, which Before entering the sneaker room, is just so awesome for the whole families had to get their passports household.” stamped at a minimum of five vendor Much of the event, Glover said, tables. Those who collected every was inspired by what he would have stamp earned an additional raffle tickloved to see at a community event et for a chance to win prizes. Kids also

10/15/26 LIGHT ON DASH?? CALL FOR FREE DIAGNOSTIC

FREE Tire Rotation and Brake Inspection with Any Oil Change

16

August 20, 2026


received $10 in “Scholar Dollars” for snacks and refreshments. Sole Scholars board member Brittany Green said her goal was to connect attendees with the available resources while also helping “lighten the burden.” “That’s the biggest thing here. In an urban community like Pleasantville, it’s extremely hard for the parents,” Green said. “I know how it feels to have that new pair of sneakers. I know how it feels to want to look good on my first day of school. And right now, people are trying to pick rent or groceries — they don’t have that in-between money for a school shopping list.” AtlantiCare, which has participated since the event’s inception, offered health screenings and physicals provided by medical residents, extending the event’s support beyond back-toschool needs. John Brooks Recovery Center also brought its mobile unit. “At AtlantiCare, our goal is increasing life expectancy,” said Christian Ragland, assistant vice president of health equity at AtlantiCare. “You have to meet the people where they are,” he continued. “A lot of times people are either afraid to ask for help, or they don’t know where help is. Or they just simply need access. So, any opportunity where people like Darryl will open up

a community space, we as a health system need to make sure we’re there as well.” New sponsor Hachette Book Group’s Raising Readers campaign donated hundreds of books and highlighters while encouraging parents to pledge to read to their children for 10 minutes each day. The event made room for older students, too. Down the hall, in a room overflowing with backpacks and school supplies, high schoolers gathered around a table stocked with free hygiene and skin care products while teen girls browsed a selection of new purses. “This is my favorite part,” Atlantic Sole Scholars Foundation’s third annual backCounty Institute of Technology stu- to-school event on Aug. 15 helped more than dent Ka’leya Rollins said of the skin 900 local children. Photos by Madison Russ. care table. Elsewhere, kids could make cussneakers came packaged in collecttom trading cards of themselves and ible boxes with additional goodies take part in other activities. tucked inside. But for many, the sneaker room “The owner and founder, Phil, I was the main event. definitely want to give a huge shoutStacked wall to wall with shoes out to him. He’s been amazing,” Glovand staffed by volunteers from er said, noting he donated both shoes StockX and Foot Locker, children and made a financial contribution. “He drove from Ohio to Pleasantbounced excitedly outside the room, waiting for their turn. ville just to meet with me. We walked Drawing excited oohs and aahs the WinSan Center while it was empand cries of “Mommy, mommy, look!” ty a couple of months ago. He said, were 200 pairs of “Piggy Runners” ‘Hey, I believe in this. I want to help donated by Cincinnati-based UNyou. What can I do?’” Heardof Brand. The colorful Adidas Thanks to such generous partners,

5 Weeks Regular Season Games

October 19 - November 30 Mondays | 6:00 - 9:00 pm ***NO GAMES PLAYED ON*** Election Day 11/3 NJEA Conference 11/5 Thanksgiving 11/23 - 11/27

most left the WinSan Center smiling ear to ear, but their gratitude didn’t end at the door. Glover said they received a lot of overwhelmingly positive feedback. "One in particular, we got an email from a grandparent who is a guardian," Glover explained. "She said, ‘I just want to thank you so much for helping my babies get ready for school. We really appreciate it. We appreciate the sneakers and the invite." Looking ahead, Glover said Sole Scholars hopes to expand its space, sponsors and volunteer services and partner with more schools throughout the year. Organizers also hope to add a sensory room for children with autism at next year’s event. Several prominent sponsors made the event possible, including L’Oréal USA, Atlantic City Electric, Mitchell & Ness, Herr’s and Steve Madden. For a full list of sponsors, to learn more about Sole Scholars’ mission or to support the organization, visit solescholars.org. Madison Russ is an award-winning 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.

Women’s 21+

BASKETBALL LEAGUE

Register online at jccatlantic.org

Open to Members & Guests $40 per player REGISTER AS A TEAM OR AN INDIVIDUAL.

For information about becoming a League Sponsor, please contact Brian Adler at badler@jccatlantic.org. August 20, 2026

17


Granese leads Atlantic City to South Jersey Lifeguard Championship

By David Weinberg

B

alance carried the Atlantic City Beach Patrol to its biggest win in decades Friday night. Two victories from rower Vince Granese and another solid effort from swimmer Charles Schreiner helped Atlantic City win the team title for the first time in 26 years at Avalon’s 35th Street Beach.

“This feels great,” said Granese, who won the singles row and teamed with Nick Guidara to earn first place in the doubles. “It means a lot.” Atlantic City scored 13 points to edge two-time defending champion Avalon by two points. It gave the beach patrol its first South Jersey team title since it shared the honor with Margate in 2000. It marked its first outright team win since 1998. Afterward, the patrol celebrated

Atlantic City Beach Patrol, winners of the 2026 South Jersey Lifeguard Championships.

Summer Fruits Galore! Order Your Party Sides and don’t forget corn on the cob!

Wholesale & Retail PREPARED FOODS • BAKERY ON PREMISES ORGANIC PRODUCE • GOURMET SNACKS DRIED FRUIT & NUTS • GOURMET TRAYS Live Chef Cooking Demonstrations Wed. & Fri. 10am-3pm

by holding the trophy aloft while echoing Mayor Marty Small’s favorite proclamation. “Can you say, ‘Great Day?’” Small often says. “It’s another great day in Atlantic City.” A large crowd stood at the water’s edge for the races, which is considered the biggest event on the South Jersey. Cheers erupted up and down the shore line while fans rooted for their favorite patrols. Granese and Guidara, Upper Township’s Chase Brown and Ryan Manning, and Cape May’s Mike Fitzpatrick and Andrew Treffeisen led the charge for much of the doubles row

before Granese and Guidara surged ahead over the last 20 yards. “We turned at the (halfway point) in second place behind Upper,” Guidara said. “I was watching them the whole time on the way in and I figured they were going to catch a wave at the end. I knew if we wanted to have a chance, we had to get cranking.” Avalon’s Tim Hanway relied on homefield advantage to win the swim. He was also locked in a tight race with Upper Township’s Logan Manning and Schreiner, who won back-to-back South Jersey crowns in 2023-24. The 18-year-old caught a late wave

We Ship Gift & Fruit Baskets Anywhere!

GIFT CARDS CARDS AVAILABLE AVAILABLE Open Mon-Sat 7am-6pm Sun 9am-4pm SHOP ONLINE ANYTIME!

609.641.6608 • www.bfmazzeo.com

We Deliver! Vince Granese of ACBP placed first in the Singles Row.

18

August 20, 2026


to take the lead before standing and sprinting out of the ocean while fans and fellow Avalon lifeguards, including two-time South Jersey swim champion Dolan Grisbaum (2022, ’25) urged him on. “I sit on this exact beach and swim this course every day, so I knew what to expect,” said Hanway, who is headed to Loyola University in Maryland later this month. “I haven’t won a race all summer, but I won the one that matters most. To win it and to win it here in Avalon is pretty flipping awesome.” Atlantic City and Upper Township were tied for first place entering the singles row with eight points apiece, adding even more drama to the race. Granese wasn’t concerned about that. “I didn’t want to know anything about the standings or how many points we needed to win (the team) title,” he said. “This race was for me. All I wanted was to win a South Jersey singles race. That’s all I was focused on.” He accomplished his goal during a controversy-filled race. Another boat crossed the finish line first, but was eventually disqualified for improperly turning the flag at the halfway point. Granese thus became Atlantic City’s first South Jersey champion

in the singles row since Mike Avalon would be second with Alton in 1996 and was its 14 total points, followed by first two-race winner since Longport (12), Sea Isle City Charles Yates in 1938. (8) and Upper Township (8) “You can be in the best and Cape May (7). shape of your life, but that Here’s hoping the powers doesn’t always matter in this that be figure a way to hold race,” Granese said. “You’ve both South Jersey events at gotta hurt to win this race. the same time at the same And I was willing to do that.” beach. Two days before Atlantic Maybe it could also exCity’s victory, Longport edged pand the races to include Margate to win the South men’s and women’s paddleJersey Women’s Lifeguard board races. Championship in Ventnor. One way to handle it would be to turn it into a The patrols both scored nine points in the doubles two-day event similar to the row, swim and singles row. annual Long Beach Island Longport won the traditional Lifeguard tournament. tiebreaker by winning the The crowds would be doubles row behind sisters even larger and the exciteLauren and Madelyn Fox. ment level would be even Margate was paced by higher. singles rowing champion David is a nationally recognized sports columAlexis Smallwood, who also teamed with sister Kamryn nist who has covered PhilSmallwood to place second in adelphia and local sports the doubles. for over 40 years. After 35 Atlantic City placed third years with The Press, he has with eight points, led by served as a columnist for swimming champion Ady 973ESPN.com and created ACBP's Charles Schreiner finished third in the Swim race. Elko. his own Facebook page, Perhaps the best way to Dave Weinberg Extra Points. determine South Jersey’s top beach team from their respective events. Send comments to weinbergd419@ Under that scenario, Atlantic City patrol for this summer is to add the comcast.net. Photos by Steffen Klenk men’s and women’s scores for each earned top honors with 21 points.

BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS

NEW 2026 BATHING SUITS ARE HERE!

Everyday 11am-5pm

Locations in: Margate • Somers Point • Northfield • Atlantic City

August 20, 2026

19


The price of summer: Viral video shines a light on Shore rentals

By Sarah Fertsch

S

hore vacationers know to pack before heading down the Parkway: sunscreen, beach chairs, a cooler, maybe a stack of towels and, depending on the rental, much more.

Philadelphia-area influencer Cait Carr Vogel recently put that familiar ritual under a social media microscope when a video documenting her family’s annual Sea Isle City vacation went viral. “Every year we pay $10,000 to come down to the Jersey Shore [and rent] houses,” Vogel said in the video, according to the New York Post. She went on to list some of the things the family still needed to provide themselves — sheets, paper products, food and coffee — before joking that they were essentially paying thousands of dollars “to camp.” The video surpassed 600,000 views and landed Vogel in national headlines while she was still vacationing in Sea Isle with her parents. Some commenters were bewildered by the price tag. For $10,000, they argued, a family could fly to Europe, stay at a Caribbean resort or choose any number of destinations where linens, housekeeping and perhaps a breakfast buffet come standard. But comparing a week down the Shore to a traditional resort vacation may miss part of the point. For generations of families, a Jersey Shore rental isn't simply somewhere to sleep. It's temporary ownership of a summer routine. It's waking up in a house crowded with cousins and sandy flip-flops. It's walking the same route to the ocean every morning with a locally-brewed cup of iced coffee. It's pizza on the first night, miniature golf later in the week and ice cream after dinner even though everyone said they were too full. One commenter highlighted by the Post summed up the defense of the Shore experience: Families often return to the same town, sometimes the same house, reconnecting with friends they may see only during that particular week each summer and repeating traditions that become part of their family calendar. That nostalgia is difficult to price.

20

What should renters expect?

smaller families or travelers who would rather skip the Saturday-to-Saturday commitment — often with linens, housekeeping and other amenities included. Campgrounds provide another option for vacationers willing to trade some comforts for a more affordable, outdoorsy getaway, with tent sites, cabins and RV accommodations available throughout South Jersey. And for those within driving distance, there is always the classic day trip. Packing the car in the morning for a few hours on the beach, a boardwalk dinner and an ice cream cone can deliver plenty of Shore nostalgia without the cost of overnight accommodations. It may mean sitting in a little Parkway traffic on the way home, but for many families, a day of sand, salt air and boardwalk fun is enough to make it feel like summer.

Vogel's video also highlights something that can surprise visitors accustomed to hotels and vacation resorts: Jersey Shore rentals often operate differently. Bringing linens and towels, for example, isn't necessarily an indication that something is wrong with a rental. Some professionally marketed Sea Isle properties explicitly tell tenants to bring their own towels and linens even when the units include amenities such as Wi-Fi, cable, parking and coffee makers. That's why renters should pay careful attention to the listing and lease before booking. A week at the Shore can require more preparation than checking into a hotel. Depending on the property, vacationers may need beach towels, paper goods, pantry basics, outdoor equipment and other household necessities. More than a house At the same time, a five-figPerhaps the reason Vogel's ure weekly rental understand- Influencer Cait Vogel's viral video spikes controversy video traveled so far online is ably raises expectations. that both sides of the argument regarding Shore rental pricing. The Shore rental market has make sense. changed considerably in recent $1,000 per night. Inherently, vacationing can be years, with property values and Beach rentals have not escaped quite stressful. A new routine in a rental prices rising in many beach the rising cost of a Jersey Shore new space would leave anyone a litcommunities. summer. Over the past several tle frazzled. When staying in a hotel The Inquirer reported in 2024 years, higher property values, inor motel or rental, you won’t have that some property owners were surance premiums, taxes, maintethe same comforts from home, and already encountering resistance nance costs and general inflation if your standards are high, this can have pushed expenses upward lead to a break in expectations. for homeowners, with many Vogel compels us to ask, "Is it of those increases reflected in worth it?" weekly rental rates. But the answer may be someFor vacationers, that can thing a real estate listing can't mean paying significantly photograph. It's buying proximity more for the same traditions to the ocean. But for many families, their families have enjoyed for it's also buying one week when evyears — making expectations eryone is finally in the same place. around cleanliness, amenities Families squeeze into rentals and overall value even more larger than their own homes, important when booking a grandparents share breakfast with Shore getaway. grandchildren, cousins reconnect This means that reading and teenagers disappear toward to high weekly prices and were the fine print is more important the Boardwalk before returning being encouraged by real estate than ever. Parking, distance from sunburned and hungry. professionals to become more the beach, linens, beach tags, grills, The houses themselves can becompetitive by adding amenities or cleaning responsibilities and checkcome part of the memories — even adjusting rates. in procedures can vary dramatically the imperfect ones. Today's beach Sea Isle's current rental inventofrom property to property. houses may be considerably more ry spans everything from traditional expensive, but the emotional pull is family properties to large, ameniThere are other ways recognizable. ty-heavy homes. One current listing And then, somewhere between to do the Shore advertises a four-bedroom beachA weeklong house rental is hardthe first morning coffee and the last block property sleeping 10 with ly the only way to enjoy the Jersey sunset of the week, those incona private heated pool and ocean Shore. Hotels and motels can offer veniences have a way of becoming views for an average of more than a simpler experience for couples, part of the story.

August 20, 2026


ke f a o o T ery y or re t eliv t en nitu e D v In Fur iat e g ly ed u H Po mm nd for I a ak e or e T m Ho

RE O SH ARS E TH 0 YE G IN ER 2 V R SE R OV FO


New MBCA Park transforms Atlantic City corner through community collaboration By Sarah Fertsch

A

once-overlooked corner of Atlantic City has been transformed into a colorful new public gathering space, thanks to a community effort that brought together businesses, artists, students, city officials and nonprofit organizations. The Metropolitan Business and Citizens Association officially opened the new MBCA Park Tuesday, Aug. 18, at the corner of North Carolina and Pacific avenues, near Resorts Casino Hotel. The ribbon-cutting celebration included refreshments and live music from The Eddie Morgan Duo. For MBCA Co-Executive Director Scott Cronick, the park represents both the culmination of roughly a year of planning and a blueprint for what the organization hopes to accomplish throughout Atlantic City in the years ahead. The MBCA has been around for more than three decades, but Cronick said the park is the organization’s first project of its kind. “Our mission statement is to

22

MBCA members at the park opening on Tuesday beautify Atlantic City to make it a better place to live, work and visit,” Cronick told Shore Local. “And I think that parks do just that.” The highly visible property along Pacific Avenue presented an opportunity, he said, to turn an unattractive space into something residents, workers and visitors could actually enjoy.

Cronick envisions people stopping by for a picnic, working outside for an afternoon or simply relaxing in one of the park’s artist-painted chairs. He said the space could eventually host festivals and other community events. “It’s just a little bit of an oasis in the middle of the city,” he said. The project’s unlikely origins can be traced back to Cronick’s radio show. Cronick said the idea began after businessman George Norcross issued a $25,000 challenge and state Sen. Vince Polistina responded with an additional $5,000. AtlantiCare later contributed another $5,000, giving the organization $35,000 in seed money. The initial funding became the catalyst for additional contributions

of labor, materials, artwork and money from throughout the community. The completed park was made possible through a lengthy roster of partners, including Polistina, Norcross, AtlantiCare, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority’s Special Improvement Division, the Atlantic City Municipal Utilities Authority, MudGirls Studios, Atlantic County Institute of Technology, Arthur R. Henry Inc., Ocean Casino Resort, Midtown Community Development Corporation, the City of Atlantic City, Cafe 2825, CODI, the Atlantic City Arts Foundation and Asbury United Methodist Church. “It takes a village, and it was certainly the case,” Cronick said.

Among the project’s most significant partners was the Atlantic County Institute of Technology, whose students helped envision and design the park.

August 20, 2026


Cronick said ACIT created architectural designs, models and 3D renderings while giving students an opportunity to see a real-world project move from concept to completion. Architecture instructor Drew Holmes became one of Cronick’s closest collaborators, assisting with everything from planning and design to selecting and planting trees and flowers. “Without Drew and ACIT, this project never would have happened,” Cronick said. Art also plays a central role in the new space. The Atlantic City Arts Foundation curated seven local artists — Kiyanna Lawrence, Christina Trice, Dara Heston, John Vaughn, Patty O’Keefe, Yelixza Figueroa and Lyntaga Smith — to transform Adirondack chairs into pieces of functional public art. MudGirls Studios created a music-themed mosaic centerpiece, with Midtown Community Development Corporation funding the work, Cronick said. Music-themed murals along the park walls were also designed and installed by the Ocean Casino Resort team, which funded that portion of the project. Other contributions were just as practical. The Atlantic City MUA helped

bring water to the property. Cafe 2825 owners Joe and Ginny Lautato contributed money toward the sprinkler system, while Arthur R. Henry Inc. provided dirt, cleared the property and leveled the land. CRDA’s Special Improvement Division has assisted with watering, mowing and maintenance. Cronick said those contributions are what ultimately made the park possible. “It’s everybody,” he said. “It’s a real community effort.” Building the space was only the first challenge. Now comes maintaining it. Cronick said CODI, an organization that creates employment opportunities for people with disabilities, will be part of the park’s future upkeep. MBCA contributed $2,500 to help support workers who will periodically assist with cleaning and tending to flowers. Cronick said the larger goal will be ensuring visitors respect the park, keep it clean and avoid vandalism. “The bigger challenge is now, which is keeping it clean, maintaining it, making sure that people respect it

and use it properly,” he said. The City of Atlantic City is also supporting the project. The park sits on city-owned property, and Cronick said the city helped facilitate access to water through the municipal utilities authority. During Tuesday’s celebration, City Council members Kaleem Shabazz, Aaron “Sporty” Randolph and Maria Lacca also personally contributed money toward flowers and other park improvements, according to Cronick. The MBCA’s roots stretch back more than three decades. Originally founded as the Midtown Business and Citizens Association, the organization later became the Metropolitan Busi-

ness & Citizens Association and expanded its membership beyond Atlantic City to businesses throughout Atlantic County and the South Jersey region. Cronick hopes MBCA Park proves that making a noticeable improvement doesn’t necessarily require a multimillion-dollar development. “I think it was proof that you don’t need a million dollars to make a difference,” he said. “It’s just, you know, $35,000, $40,000 — that’s enough to kind of get the ball started.” The organization is already hoping to raise money for another park, though no location or timeline has been announced. For now, Cronick has one request for Atlantic City: use the park. Whether visitors stop for lunch, gather with friends or simply take a seat in one of the painted Adirondack chairs, Cronick hopes the new park becomes part of everyday life in the city — and the first of many small oases still to come. Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

Atlantic and Cape May County Residents

CHANGE THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!

Discover the Power of Weight Loss Injections!

NEW PROVEN GLP-1 WEIGHT LOSS INJECTIONS

Lose Weight With Semaglutide or Tirzepatide

IN-PERSON OR TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS NO MEDICATION SHORTAGES! | INSURANCE NOT REQUIRED! NO EXTREME DIETING! | JUST GREAT RESULTS!

TIRED OF BEING OVERWEIGHT? LOSE 20-30%

OF YOUR BODY WEIGHT CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE, NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION

609-382-TRIM NJTRIMCLINIC.COM

501 BAY AVE, STE 201 | SOMERS POINT NJ August 20, 2026

23


Absecon Concerts in the Park

Free Outdoor Concerts

▶Sunday, August 23, 7 p.m. Heritage Park Mark your calendars this Sunday for Concerts in the Park in Absecon, sponsored by the Absecon Parks and Playground Committee. Bring a chair and blanket and enjoy an evening a blend of music from all decades by Tony Pontari. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Brigantine Summer Concert Series

▶Wednesday, August 26, 7 p.m. Brigantine Community Center Side Lawn, 265 42nd Street Join the Brigantine Community, Education, and Recreation Department next Wednesday for their final outdoor concert of the season, featuring Six Mile Cross. Bring a beach chair or blanket. In the event of inclement weather, the show will be moved to the Brigantine Community School Auditorium. EHT Rhythm in the Park

▶Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m. Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater at Tony Canale Park Join Egg Harbor Township Parks and Recreation for their weekly concert series. On August 20, en-

joy an evening of live music by the Shore Thing Band, and mark your calendars as Poor Mouth Henry takes the EHT stage on August 27. It’s Pure AC Concert Series

▶Tuesday, August 25, 7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City Spend your Tuesday evenings with a free family-friendly summer concert series hosted by acclaimed band leader Dave Damiani and the No Vacancy Orchestra. This week, Tony winner Landau Murphy Jr. takes the stage to perform timeless classics from the Great American Songbook. Jazz on the Beach Concert Series

▶Thursdays, 7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City The Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation presents their annual Jazz on the Beach Concert Series. Enjoy live music by the Amina Figarova Sextet, along with local jazz by Carrie Jackson this Thursday, and mark your calendars as Jean Carn and Gina Roche take the stage on Thursday, August 27. Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point

▶Friday, August 21, 7 p.m. William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue

In Todays Fast Paced Real Estate Market It Is Even More Important To Choose The Right Agent To Represent You! Over 40 Years of Real Estate Expertise, Knowledge, and Experience to Assist You!

Elisa Jo Eagan

• ABR-Accredited Buyer Representative- Expert Negotiator To Get You The Home That You Want ! • CRS-Certified Residential Specialist-To Optimize The Highest Sales Price For Your Home and Get SOLD Quickly! • GRI-Graduate Realtor Institute-Continuing Education and Technology Like No Other!

Jazz on the Beach Concert Series. Photo by John Loreaux/ Visit AC Facebook The Legacy Beach Concerts in Somers Point presents an evening of local music featuring South Jersey’s own Billy Walton Band, with a special guest performance by the Plaid Salmon Horns. Enjoy an evening of original rock and jammin’ brass. Visit www.somerspointbeachconcerts.com for the full summer lineup. Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk

▶Monday, August 24, 7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City Join Tony Mart Presents for their weekly Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk concert series. This week, Melody Trucks, Vaylor Trucks, and the Fitzkee Brothers celebrate the Allman Brothers ‘Live at Fillmore East’ alongside Peter Levin from the Gregg Allman Band and Lamar Williams from Oteil and Friends. Visit www.tonymart.com for more information. Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk

▶Wednesday, August 26, 7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City The Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk Concert Series continues this Wednesday as Dead Zep returns

to the outdoor concert stage with special guest Hayley Jane. Enjoy a special evening of Grateful Dead and Led Zeppelin medleys with superb vocals. Visit www.tonymart. com for more information. Sunset at Ski Beach

▶Wednesday, August 26, 6:30 p.m. Ski Beach, Ventnor Join Ventnor City for their upcoming concert at Ski Beach concert. Mark your calendars for a spectacular evening of popular songs and party favorites by The Exceptions. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m. Ventnor Summer Beach Jam

▶Saturday, August 22, 6:30 p.m. Newport Avenue Beach Join Ventnor City for their upcoming Beach Jam. Audiences will enjoy a night of hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s in a Time Travelers Decades Show. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.

• MRP-Military and Relocation Specialist-Proficient in All Aspects of Veteran and Active Military Real Estate! • Full Time Awarded Professional Realtor Since 1985 and NJ Real Estate Broker Since1989-Experience Counts!

Trust Your Biggest Investments to a Proven Professional With The Know-How To Get You Successfully To Your Closing!

609-703-0432 24

• Lifetime Membership in the New Jersey Association of Realtors Distinguished Sales Club and National Association of Realtors. Up to $50,000 of Down Payment Assistance Available to Qualified Buyers in Atlantic City and Surrounding Area

Open 7 Days A Week Mon-Fri 6am-6pm Sat & Sun 6am-5pm

TheRealEstateGodmother.com "There's No Place Like Owning Your Own Home"

August 20, 2026


JUST MINUTES FROM THE BEACH!

CREATE YOUR OWN STORY AT STORYBOOK LAND!

• FULLY SHADED • DISCOUNTED TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE • BOOK YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY WITH US!

WWW.STORYBOOKLAND.COM 6415 BLACK HORSE PIKE EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, NJ 08234


New exhibit chronicles local surf culture

W

hether you are a history buff or big kahuna, you are invited to catch a wave to the Ocean City Historical Museum for their latest exhibit. Local officials were in attendance last Saturday as the museum unveiled "Surfin’ OCNJ."

Tom DiGiovanni, museum intern and curator of Surfin' OCNJ.

This brand-new display explores the rise of surfing in Ocean City with historic artifacts, classic boards, and

Named America’s #1 Best Roadside Attraction by USA Today! Now Open Daily. Weekdays 11am - 4pm Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm

styles that defined the island’s early surf scene.

Tom DiGiovanni is the guest curator behind the project. He is an intern at the museum and is

1 Lucy Plaza (9200 Atlantic Ave.) Margate, NJ 08402 (609)823-6473 www.LucyTheElephant.org

studying for a master’s in public history at Rutgers Camden. “I grew up [surfing] in Portland, Maine, then I moved down here for my undergrad, went to Temple University, and now I’m studying surf history and intersections of class and race in surf culture,” DiGiovanni said. The new surf exhibit comprises over 25 surfboards, each donated by local sources. The display is organized in chronological order, showcasing the evolution of surfboard designs, including mid to late 1960s longboards, 70s mid-length and big wave boards, and shortboards.

narrative of the journey of how surfing was established in Ocean City through the decades; there’s a concrete culture and sport in the community,” DiGiovanni said. Local historian Bill Simon says there is a significant amount of surf history throughout New Jersey, including recollections of the late Duke Kahanamoku surfing among our shores. “Kahanamoku wasn’t the first person to surf New Jersey but was by far the most famous,” Simon said. Among winning the gold medal in Stockholm, the Duke took part in various surf exhibitions.

Surf aficionados and novices alike will be awe-inspired by the collection of historical images, medals, surf jackets, and apparel on display. “We’ve created a little

He surfed Atlantic City and Ocean City in 1912 and 1916, SImon said. Many of the artifacts on display were donated or loaned to the museum by several contributors and

Gift Shop is temporarily located across the street at the corner of Washington & Atlantic Ave.

TAKE $1 OFF ADMISSION OR RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR GIFT SHOP PURCHASE *Coupon must be surrendered at the time of purchase and may not be combined with any other offer. No cash value. Discount is limited to four (4) admission tickets. Gift Shop discount excludes the purchase of selected jewelry as well as Steven Winkelstein (a.k.a. “The Winkle”) and Aunt Evelyn books. Coupon expires December 31,2026. Valid in-store only. Coupon Code: SL The Save Lucy Committee, Inc. received an operating support grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.

26

August 20, 2026


Original art by "Bogy" on display. collaborators, including John Loeper, Bill Simon, Shore Local publisher Bob Fertsch, Jack Gardner, Greg Beck of Surfer Supply, and Jim Hennessey of Heritage Surf & Sport. The museum also credited Joe Santella for constructing bamboo walls and stands for the surfboards. “He’s really the man that should get all of the credit; Joe was really involved,” DiGiovanni said. Among other contributors include Robert Hendrikson, who donated a collection of 237 books, including original surfing magazines, videos, and other paraphernalia for the project. The avid surfer became friends with Surfer Supplies founder George Gerlach, who was one of the most prominent board shapers on the East Coast.

have a venue in which we can share surf culture with the community, if not all of Southern New Jersey,"

Hennessey said. Surfin’ OCNJ is on display at the Ocean City Historical Museum, located inside the Community Center

at 1735 Simpson Avenue. They are open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed on Sundays. Photos by Steffen Klenk

Over the last ten years, Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian has been diligently seeking to create a dedicated East Coast surf and beach patrol museum for residents and visitors alike. Work is underway to find a location that will house a permanent display of surf culture and history. “The mantra would be to

August 20, 2026

27


AirFest 2026 brings historic aircraft, aviation history to Cape May County

By Julia Train

F

or nearly three decades, aviation enthusiasts and families have gathered at Cape May Airport’s Hangar #1 to experience historic aircraft up close, and

signature event and largest annual fundraiser, will take place Sept. 3 through 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day . The event began nearly 30 years ago as a pancake breakfast fly-in, when pilots were encouraged to fly in

The museum is located inside a real World War II hangar.

Messerschmitt Me 262 this year’s AirFest is set to continue that tradition with one of its largest lineups yet. AirFest 2026, the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum’s

and support the museum in exchange for breakfast. Today, AirFest draws about 10,000 visitors over the four-day weekend and has grown into the museum’s

largest annual fundraiser. NASW Events and Communications Manager Austin Myers, who has worked at the museum for six years, begins planning the next AirFest as soon as the current one ends. This year’s event will feature the largest collection of aircraft the museum has booked for AirFest, with historic planes representing different chapters of military aviation history.

Among the headliners is the C-47 “Placid Lassie,” a 1943 World War II combat veteran that participated in D-Day, Operation Market Garden, the Battle of the Bulge and Operation Varsity. Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the aircraft and see what it was like inside a plane used during the war. The Military Aviation Museum’s flying Messerschmitt Me 262 repro-

Insurance Specialists Since 1879

BUSINESS ~ HOME ~ FLOOD ~ AUTO & MORE

COMPETITIVE RATES FOR THE PROTECTION YOU NEED AT THE SHORE AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES. 1601 New Road, Northfield 1001 W. Brigantine Ave, Brigantine 3 Harker Avenue, Berlin

609-646-1000 www.insuranceagenciesinc.com We're not just your Agents, we're locals!

28

August 20, 2026


duction will also be featured. The aircraft represents the world’s first operational jet fighter. Other aircraft will highlight the connections between American and Japanese aviation during World War II, including a TBM Avenger and a flying Japanese A6M Zero replica. A Stinson OY-1 Sentinel, which flew artillery-spotting missions during the Battle of Saipan, and a Fairchild UC-61 Forwarder in U.S. Coast Guard markings will also be on display. The variety of aircraft reflects the museum’s own history. Naval Air Station Wildwood served as a World War II dive-bomber training facility, preparing young naval aviators for combat.

throughout the weekend. The Aero Club of Pennsylvania and EAA Fly-In will bring approximately 15 to 20 privately owned aircraft on Saturday, while AtlantiCare Medevac, Cape May County Mosquito Control and the New Jersey Forest Fire Service are also scheduled to participate. There are no scheduled aerial performances, and aircraft arrivals and departures are subject to weather and other operational factors.

The event will have live music. ers said he immediately understood its appeal. “I walked through the front door, and I instantly fell in love with the hangar,” he said. Now, six years into his job, Myers hopes AirFest will give other visitors that same experience. “I encourage folks to just take the ride,” he said. “To be honest, if you're coming — I'm coming from Ocean City each day, back and forth — it's worth the ride.” AirFest admission is $18 for adults and $14 for children ages 3 to 12. Museum members, active-duty military

and children ages 3 and under are admitted free. Veterans receive a $2 discount. Free parking will be available, with shuttle service around the Cape May Airport complex on Saturday and Sunday. Julia graduated from Rider University in 2024 with a BA in multiplatform journalism and minor in social media strategies. In addition to reporting on local news for Shore Local, she is a social media strategist for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @ juliatrain on Instagram.

The C-47 “Placid Lassie” “What a lot of folks don't know is these were guys [who were] maybe 18 to 23 years old,” Myers said. “Who might have never even have driven a car, and then now all of a sudden they're here and they're being told, ‘Hey, you're going to learn to fly an airplane.’” The museum is dedicated to the 42 naval aviators who died while training at NAS Wildwood between 1943 and 1945. Myers said preserving that history is only part of AirFest’s purpose. The event also aims to introduce visitors — particularly young people — to aviation and the career opportunities available in the field. “We have the FAA coming from the technical center. They talk about aviation STEM and all these career opportunities that you might have not thought about before,” Myers said. Visitors can also meet pilots and crews, explore military vehicles and fire trucks, see living-history reenactors and visit aviation and STEM exhibits. Food trucks, vendors, live music, caricatures, face painting and a beer and wine garden will add to the family-friendly atmosphere. Although AirFest is primarily a static-display event, some aircraft will fly in and out of Cape May Airport

August 20, 2026

For Myers, AirFest is also an opportunity to introduce people to a museum they may have passed without realizing what is inside. “The first time I ever came to Airfest was actually in 2019. I never knew this place was here,” he said. After walking into the museum’s 92,000-square-foot Hangar #1, My-

Join Us Every Sunday 9am-1pm June 7 thru October 11, 2026 Atlantic County Library Grounds 1 Swift Drive, EHT For vendor and market information, visit www.littlepawscrafts.com

29


Live Fully. Retire Confidently.

At Reich Asset Management, we help retirees simplify complexity, protect their wealth, and enjoy the retirement they’ve earned.

Visit our website to register for one of our upcoming seminars! 105 Roosevelt Blvd • Marmora, NJ 08223 • 609-486-5073 www.ReichAssetManagement.com 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. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.


By Gary Mazin

DonutNV brings made-to-order mini doughnuts to South Jersey

I

n the fast-paced world of food trucks, one company is rolling out the dough with madeto-order mini doughnuts and fresh-squeezed lemonade. DonutNV began in 2014 as Cinnamini Donuts, a mall kiosk founded by Amanda and Alex Gingold in the Philadelphia area. In 2018, the business was renamed DonutNV and transitioned to a mobile trailer concept. The company began franchising the following year and has since expanded to more than 100 mobile units in at least 26 states. The franchise is now serving South Jersey through Chip and Ruth Berdinis, who operate a DonutNV trailer based in Egg Harbor Township. DonutNV offers a variety of mini doughnut flavors, ranging from powdered sugar and cinnamon sugar to more elaborate combinations such as Fruity Pebbles, chocolate Oreo and maple bacon. The menu also includes freshsqueezed lemonade, frozen lemonade, coffee and hot chocolate.

August 20, 2026

Frozen strawberry lemonade is among the most popular beverage choices. The local business typically experiences its busiest season from June through October, when warm weather brings customers to festivals, community celebrations and

other outdoor gatherings. Although summer and early fall are particularly

active, the trailer operates from February through December. DonutNV does not have a traditional brick-and-mortar location. Instead, the company operates entirely through its mobile franchises across the United States and Canada. The trailers are available for corporate events, weddings, school functions, block parties and other private occasions. DonutNV franchises also participate in fundraising events benefiting schools, charities and com-

munity organizations. Cus tomer s can watch their mini doughnuts being prepared through the company’s signature “Watch the Donuts” window. The feature provides a firsthand look at the process and assures guests that their orders are prepared fresh. South Jersey residents can find DonutNV at the weekly Food Truck Festival at Ski Beach in Ventnor on Wednesdays during the summer. The trailer also appears at community events and private gatherings throughout the region. More information, including menu selections and upcoming locations, is available on the DonutNV website. Gary Mazin is a long time Ventnor resident. He has a love of writing, reading comic books and watching movies. He is a published author and is a graduate of both ACCC and New York Film Academy.

31


By Marcella Curcio

Taking a bite out of the Ocean City Boardwalk

C

ertain smells immediately feel like summer: salty ocean air, sweet funnel cake drifting down the Boardwalk, and fresh-cut fries coming out of the fryer. Add the sounds of rides moving up and down the tracks, flashing lights and families making their way from one attraction to the next, and you have the familiar soundtrack of an Ocean City summer.

In Ocean City, the Boardwalk is more than a place to walk. For generations, families and friends have gathered around paper trays and baskets of Boardwalk favorites, sharing bites between rides, games, and strolls. Growing up in Ocean City, I have always thought of Boardwalk food as part of the experience rather than simply something to eat. Sometimes you have a plan, and other times you are walking past a stand, smell something coming out of the fryer, and suddenly decide you need it. That is part of what makes Boardwalk food so memorable.

One person wants fries, someone else wants something sweet, and another person spots something they have never tried. Before long, you are sharing food, deciding what to try next, and probably debating where you are headed afterward. If you ask me, sometimes the best Boardwalk meals are the ones that come with a little extra crunch.

Hangry Bites: Sweet and salty cravings

Located near the Ocean City Waterpark, Hangry Bites is a stop worth remembering when a Boardwalk craving hits. The menu includes classic French fries along with fried Oreos and fried pickles, making it an easy option

JiLLy's French Fry Factory right in front of the Playland rides, the perfect stop. when everyone in your group is looking for something different. For someone with a sweet tooth, the fried Oreo is hard to overlook. The first time I had one, it reminded me of eating a warm brownie as a kid. The chocolate cookie softens as the Oreo is dipped in batter and fried, creating a warm center surrounded by a crisp exterior. It is gooey, warm, and sweet without needing a fork — exactly the kind of treat that fits a Boardwalk night. Then there are the fried pickles. The tangy, salty flavor of the pickle paired with crispy batter creates a combination that works surprisingly well. Every bite starts with that crunch before getting to the familiar pickle flavor underneath. Sometimes the unexpected Boardwalk snack ends up being the one you go back for.

Promenade Food Court: A classic Boardwalk stop

After a day of rides, water slides and exploring the Boardwalk, sometimes the best plan is simply finding a place where everyone can grab something they like. Promenade Food Court, located near the Ocean City Adventure Waterpark and golf course, offers that kind of casual gathering spot. It is the type of place where you can keep things

32

simple, grab some food, and get back to enjoying the rest of your day. For me, fresh-cut fries are one of those Boardwalk classics that never really go out of style. There is something about sharing a platter with a group that feels distinctly like summer. Someone reaches for one, another person steals two more, and suddenly the entire tray is disappearing faster than expected. It is not necessarily about having the most elaborate meal; it is about sitting down, sharing food, and talking about everything that happened that day. A summer evening on the Boardwalk does not need much more than a basket of fries, good company, and nowhere else you need to be.

Curly’s: The fries you take with you

You know a Boardwalk food stop is popular when the line seems to have a life of its own. Curly’s has become a familiar Ocean City Boardwalk name, with several locations making it easy to grab a serving of its signature wavy fries while continuing your walk. And yes, I have absolutely gotten Curly’s fries and kept walking. That is part of the fun. The fries are made for a grab-and-go Boardwalk experience. You can carry them toward the rides, the beach, or simply along the Boardwalk while watching the crowds. The playful French fry character, complete with sunglasses and a mustache, is also hard to miss. For me, Curly’s fries are connected to those simple Boardwalk nights when you are walking without a real destination, grabbing a snack and deciding what ride or game comes next. Sometimes the food is part of the activity.

Chickie’s & Pete’s: A little taste of Philadelphia

As someone who grew up in the Philadelphia suburbs, went to college in the city, and spent time living there, Chickie’s & Pete’s has always

August 20, 2026


felt like a familiar name, especially on game day. The restaurant’s crab fries, covered in Old Bay seasoning and served with its signature dipping sauce, immediately bring Philadelphia sports memories to mind. While Ocean City has plenty of its own Boardwalk classics, Chickie’s & Pete’s offers a little connection to home for those who grew up around Philadelphia. There is something fun about finding a familiar favorite in a completely different setting. Instead of sitting in front of a television watching a game, you might be eating crab fries surrounded by Boardwalk lights, the sounds of rides and summer crowds. The setting changes, but the craving stays the same. That is part of what makes Boardwalk food memorable: It can remind you of a place, a person, a vacation, or even a particular summer.

JiLLy’s French Fry Factory: Fried food meets the rides

If your idea of the perfect Boardwalk snack is anything that can be dipped in batter and dropped into a fryer, JiLLy’s French Fry Factory is calling your name. Located near Playland’s rides, JiLLy’s offers a lineup of fried favorites, including

funnel cakes, fried Oreos, fried candy bars, and chicken tenders. It is also the kind of place that fits naturally into the ride experience. You can stop for a bite before heading onto the rides or reward yourself afterward. As you approach, you may even spot the JiLLy’s French Fry Factory mascot waving from above. There is something about the combination of amusement park rides and fried food that just works. You are at the Boardwalk; it is summer, and you are allowed to have the funnel cake, fried Oreo, or whatever else catches your attention. Sometimes you just have to embrace it.

simply walk, look around, and see what catches your attention. Maybe it is a ride, a game, or the smell coming from a food stand that suddenly makes you realize you are hungry. For many visitors, these foods become part of their own Ocean City traditions. They are the flavors people remember when summer is over, and the Boardwalk gets quiet. You might have a favorite ride, a favorite ice cream stop, or a favorite place to grab fries, and eventually those places become part of your summer routine. For me, some of the best Boardwalk memories are connected to those simple moments — walking

with friends, stopping for fries, trying something new, or grabbing something sweet before heading back toward the rides. The food may only take a few minutes to eat, but just like the rides, the memory can stick around much longer. Whether your favorite is a basket of fresh-cut fries, a warm fried Oreo, a crispy pickle, crab fries, or something dipped in a secret batter, there is always another bite waiting around the corner. In Ocean City, the Boardwalk has a way of turning simple things into summer traditions, and sometimes those memories are made one bite at a time.

More than just a snack

Boardwalk food is not just about satisfying hunger. It is about the memories attached to it: the fries you shared with friends before heading onto a ride, the fried Oreo you convinced yourself counted as a snack instead of dessert, the funnel cake covered in powdered sugar, or the pickle you tried because someone insisted it was good. Growing up here, I think that is one of the things I appreciate most about the Boardwalk. So much of the experience is spontaneous. You do not always need a plan. You can

FREE KITE, YO-YO & JUGGLING LESSONS!

August 20, 2026

33


‘We’re all in this together’: OCTC brings ‘High School Musical Jr.’ to the Music Pier

G

et ready to “Bop to the Top” as the Ocean City Theatre Company presents Disney’s “High School Musical Jr.” on Friday, Aug. 28 and Saturday, Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.

Featuring talented students in 5th through 8th grades, this energetic production is part of OCTC’s Junior Company program, providing young performers with the opportunity to experience the excitement, responsibility and teamwork that come with producing a full musical. Based on the hugely popular Disney Channel Original Movie, “High School Musical Jr.” follows Troy Bolton, Gabriella Montez and their classmates at East High as they navigate friendship, first love, academics, extracurricular activities and the pressure to fit into the roles others expect them to play. When Troy and Gabriella decide to audition for the school musical, they challenge the established social order at East High and discover that there is room for everyone to shine. Filled with memorable songs, energetic choreography and an uplifting message about friendship, individuality and following your dreams, “High School Musical Jr.” is an entertaining experience for audiences of all ages. The production is under the direction of James Craver, Fran Merlino and Erik Wagner, who are working with the young performers to bring this beloved musical to life on the Ocean City Music Pier stage.

“There is something especially meaningful about bringing ‘High School Musical Jr.’ back to the stage,” said Michael Hartman, OCTC founding artistic director. “Sixteen years ago, ‘High School Musical Jr.’ was the very first Jr Company production we presented. To see a new generation of students take on this show all these years later is incredibly special. It is a wonderful reminder of how much our Junior Company has grown and how many young people have had the opportunity to discover their love of theatre through OCTC.” OCTC’s Junior Company program provides students with an opportunity to develop their performance skills while learning the importance of collaboration, commitment and professionalism in a supportive theatrical environment. For many students, the program serves as an important stepping stone in their continued involvement in the performing arts. Performances of Disney’s “High School Musical Jr.” will take place Friday, Aug. 28 and Saturday, Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets are just $15, making the production an affordable opportunity for families, friends and theatre lovers to support these talented young performers. For tickets and additional information, visit the www. oceancitytheatrecompany.com. Disney’s “High School Musical Jr.” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

Best Selection of All Natural Soap, Skin Care and Bath Products

• BODY BUTTERS • FACIAL AND LIP CARE • ROOM SPRAYS • GIFTS AND FAVORS FOR ANY OCCASION • SUGAR SCRUBS AND SO MUCH MORE www.lehsoap.com VISIT Egg Harbor Township • Boardwalk OC • Asbury Ave OC OUR Smithville, NJ • Rehoboth Beach, DE ONLINE SHOP Studio: 609-390-9500

34

August 20, 2026


What’s happening in Ocean City

O

Green Fair, live music and a patriotic drone show

cean City’s summer calendar continues with a lineup of shopping, environmental events, live music and family-friendly entertainment Aug. 20-24. Highlights include Market Days and Mummers Night, the Ocean City Green Fair, The Three Tenors of Rock Opera with the Ocean City Pops, a performance by 10,000 Maniacs and the final patriotic drone show of the summer. The 2026 Boardwalk Summer Concert Series will come to a close with 10,000 Maniacs on Monday, Aug. 24. The band 10,000 Maniacs are celebrating their 45th anniversary with a nationwide tour and now feature Mary Ramsey on vocals. They will perform a mix of classic hits and new music. Both concerts are at the Ocean City Music Pier and start at 7 p.m. Tickets for the Temptations and 10,000 Maniacs are available through etix.com. Ocean City has a full schedule of other events lined up for the week:

Thursday, Aug. 20 ●

Market Days: Ocean City’s down-

August 20, 2026

●

town shopping district along Asbury Avenue features entertainment, face - painter s , bal loon-sculptors and more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mummers Night: String bands strut the Boardwalk between Sixth Street and 14th Street between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

of-a-kind event. 7:30 p.m. at the Music Pier. Tickets are available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

Monday, Aug. 24 ●

●

Friday, Aug. 21 ●

Ocean City Green Fair: The community event is designed to educate and encourage people of all ages to adopt a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. It takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.

Sunday, Aug. 23 ●

The Three Tenors of Rock Opera with the Ocean City Pops: The Three Tenors return with a bang. Ocean City favorites Angel Gomez, Chris Lysack and Robert Stahley join forces with Maestro Vince Lee

to bring their powerhouse voices to the Music Pier stage. You'll hear some of the most beloved music of all time by Verdi, Puccini, Wagner and more. Our Three Tenors will then rock the opera house with music ranging from The Beatles to Coldplay, and an encore guaranteed to bring the house down. Don't miss this one-

●

10,000 Maniacs: at the Music Pier. See highlights previously mentioned. America 250 — Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show: Ocean City will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation with its final patriotic drone show for the summer. The show will light the sky over the beach and boardwalk south of Sixth Street and feature hundreds of drones creating animations that salute America. The 15-minute show starts at 9 p.m. It is made possible through a $25,000 grant from the Cape May County Board of Commissioners, sponsorships from Boardwalk merchants and city funding. Family Night on the Boardwalk: A variety of family-friendly entertainers — including magicians, musicians, characters and more — will be stationed on the Boardwalk between Sixth Street and 14th Street.

35


Plant zinnias for a long season of colorful blooms in the garden

By Tammy Thornton

I

f you are looking for colorful flowers that can stand up to the heat of South Jersey summers, zinnia flowers will beautifully exceed your expectations. These powerhouse annuals will bloom from late June into fall, only stopping when the first frost hits. Coming in practically every color but blue, zinnias will attract bees, birds, and butterflies, making them the perfect addition to your pollinator garden. Zinnias thrive in full sun (at least six hours per day) and well-drained soil, but do not like the cold. While some plants can be frustrating to grow from seed, zinnias will help build your confidence. They are easy-to-grow flowers that can be planted by seed directly into the soil in spring. Wait until all danger of frost is over and the soil has warmed. You can get a jump start on the season by starting them indoors in early spring before the last frost. But they do not love to be transplanted once their roots develop, which is why direct sowing is preferable.

Pollinators will love your zinnias almost as much as you do. Zinnias make excellent cut flowers, lasting in a vase of water for about seven to ten days. Cut the flowers from your garden in the morning when they are the most hydrated. Choose flowers with sturdy stems as opposed to those that are floppy and still immature. When you cut the flowers, aim for long stems and cut just above a lower set of leaves. This will give you long, sturdy stems for

your arrangement. Effectively, you will also be pruning the plant above a leaf node, resulting in a bushier plant with more flowers. Just like other cut flowers, you should remove any leaves that will be below the water line in your vase. Isn’t it wonderful that cutting your flowers to enjoy indoors or to give to a friend results in even more flowers? This time of year, your zinnias will be susceptible to powdery mildew. To help prevent the spread of these spores, keep the plants spaced apart enough to allow proper airflow, since powdery mildew thrives in humid conditions. Prune if necessary to thin them out. When watering your zinnias, water at the base of the plant near the soil to keep foliage dry. Water early in the morning so that the leaves can dry in the sun. Prune away diseased parts of the plant, and clean your shears or pruners between cuts. Make a mental note to choose zinnia plants that are bred for mildew resistance for next year. In addition to cutting flowers for your own enjoyment, you will want to deadhead spent flowers. Zinnias are annuals, and once the flower matures, it will go into seed-producing mode and stop flowering. By continuously cutting the flowers, you can prolong blooming time. Eventually, you will want to stop cutting to allow some of the flowers to go to seed. This will provide you with a treasure trove of seeds for next year. To collect seeds, allow the seed head to completely turn brown and dry out. At this point, you might forget what color the flow-

Zinnias come in many vibrant colors and bloom from late June until frost. er was. Tie a string or ribbon around the stem in the same color as a little reminder. Once the seed heads are fully dry, break them apart to separate the seeds, and store them in a dry, breathable container, such as a paper bag or envelope. Be sure to label the color and type of seeds that you have saved. Besides saving seed heads for yourself, leave a few for our feathered friends, since certain birds such as goldfinches will enjoy plucking out the seeds. If you would like more information about zinnias or have other garden questions, send your requests 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.

th

TAKE OUT PLATTERS PARTY TRAYS KID’S MENU

STREET

SEAFOOD

Fresh Market & Cooked Seafood Platters

TRY OUR TASTY HAND-BREADED CHICKEN!

Homemade Crabcakes

Clams & Shrimp • Local Fresh Scallops & Flounder

609.399.0016 www.16thstreetseafood.net

5 OFF

$

Your $60 Order 2026 Season

Corner of 16th & Haven Ave. • Ocean City, NJ 08226 Plenty of off street parking

36

August 20, 2026


IT'S HEATING UP! IS YOUR AC SYSTEM READY?

oil, heat pumps, hot water, ductless units and forced air systems. We install tank and tankless water heaters.

76 OFF

$

12381


A beginner’s guide to paddleboarding at the Shore

By Sarah Fertsch

Cape May Scallops & Flounder Shrimp, Crabs, Clams, Mussels, Lobster Homemade Crab Cake, Deviled Crab, Crab Imperial Live Lobster, Tuna, Mahi, Swordfish, Halibut

Celebrating 45 Years! Homemade Soups

Manhattan Clam Chowder, New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Bisque, Maryland Crab

Take Out Lunch & Dinner Hand Breaded Fried, Broiled & Steamed Seafood Custom Party Trays

OUTDOOR SEATING

Made Fresh, Never Frozen! LOCAL CRABS Live & Clean

Original

®

T

here is something miraculous about standing on the surface of the water.

From the seat of a kayak, the bay is beautiful. From a boat, it is exhilarating. But on a stand-up paddleboard, there is little separating you from the water below. You can glide quietly past marsh grass, watch minnows dart beneath your board and get a workout without necessarily feeling like you are exercising. And despite what one might think, you do not need extraordinary balance or years of experience to give it a try. Stand-up paddleboarding, commonly shortened to SUP, has become a summertime staple at the Jersey Shore, with rental businesses and launch points accessible throughout Atlantic County to Cape May. Beginners can also consider learning on one of South Jersey’s freshwater lakes. Here is what to know before you grab a paddle.

Start simple

Before spending hundreds of dollars on your own board, renting is an easy way to see whether paddleboarding is for you. It also

solves one of the activity’s biggest logistical challenges: transporting an approximately 10-foot board to the water. Around the Shore, a couple outfitters make it easy for beginners to get started.

SUP Guy operates from the Wildwood Marina area and serves several Cape May County shore towns. Its rentals include a paddle, life jacket and brief introduction to the basics, and longer rentals can be delivered and picked up — particularly convenient for vacationers who want a board for several days. Rental availability, hours and weather policies can change throughout the season, so it is worth calling or booking ahead before making the trip. If you are looking to invest, start with an inflatable paddleboard. They’re lightweight, easy to transport, and just as effective as a solid

SACK O’ SUBS

SUBS • SALADS • SANDWICHES • SOUPS PICK-UP • EAT-IN • DELIVERY Order Online! om bs.c SackoSu n City a - Oce

Order Online and Get Discount Specials 932 Haven Ave. Ocean City

609-398-6703

SPECIALS Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials on Facebook & Instagram

38

THURSDAY PIZZA SPECIAL $11.95 Large Cheese (Toppings extra) Local Delivery Available

926 Asbury Ave. Ocean City 609-525-0460 55th & Central Ave. Ocean City 609-525-0434

August 20, 2026


board. Keep an auto-inflator in your car and you can paddle anywhere!

Where should beginners paddle?

The best place to learn is generally flat, protected water. While the image of paddling through breaking ocean waves may look impressive, the open Atlantic adds waves, currents and shore break to an activity that already requires a little balance. Save that challenge for after you have some experience. The Shore’s back bays offer plenty of alternatives. The Great Egg Harbor Bay, the waterways behind Sea Isle City and Strathmere and the bay surrounding Port Republic all offer opportunities to explore salt marshes and quieter stretches of water. Local outfitters often know which routes work best at a particular tide and wind direction. Lakes Bay, between Pleasantville and Atlantic City, is another option. If you are going out without a guide, remember that "back bay" does not necessarily mean "easy." Tides can create surprisingly strong currents around bridges, channels and inlets, and boat traffic can produce wakes. Beginners should stick close to shore and avoid busy navigation channels. Freshwater can be one of the easiest places to learn because paddlers do not have to contend with tides, saltwater currents or ocean swells. Lake Nummy at Belleplain State Forest is one South Jersey option. The state specifically permits canoes, kayaks and paddleboards to launch near the lake’s floating dock. Surrounded by pine, oak and cedar forest, the lake offers a very different paddling experience from the Shore’s tidal bays. Lake Lenape Park in Mays Landing offers boating on the lake, although permits and park boating regulations apply. Paddlers should check current requirements with Atlantic County Parks before launching.

How to actually stand up

Do not feel pressured to immediately leap to your feet. Start on your knees near the center of the board. Take a few strokes and get a sense of how the board responds underneath you. There is no shame in kneeling or sitting! When you are ready, place your hands on the board and slowly bring one foot at a time to approximately where your knees had been. Keep your feet about shoulder-width apart.

August 20, 2026

Then look ahead. Focus on a still point in the horizon, to keep your balance. It is tempting to stare directly at your feet when the board starts wobbling, but resist the temptation. Staring straight ahead generally makes balancing easier. Keep your knees slightly bent rather than locking your legs. And if you spend your entire first outing kneeling? You are still paddleboarding. Falling in is also part of the fun. If you feel yourself going down, try to fall away from the board rather than onto it.

Safety before scenery

A paddleboard may feel more like a floating piece of sporting equipment than a boat, but the U.S. Coast Guard classifies paddleboards as vessels for purposes of its boating regulations. Bring — and preferably wear — a properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. The Coast Guard recommends wearing a life jacket whenever a vessel is underway. Wear your leash when appropriate. It keeps the board from rapidly drifting away after a fall. Because leash selection can differ for rivers, surf and flat water, ask a local outfitter what is appropriate for where you are paddling. Check the wind before going out. What feels like a light breeze on land can become a challenging paddle once you are exposed on open water. Beginners should avoid windy conditions and, when possible, paddle into the breeze early so the return trip is easier. Be aware of the tide. This is especially important in the back bays. An outgoing tide can pull paddlers toward inlets and stronger current. Track the weather. Do not launch when thunderstorms or hazardous marine conditions are approaching. Give a friend or family member your approximate route and expected return time. Bring water and sun protection. There is very little shade in the middle of a bay. Keep your phone protected. A waterproof pouch can allow you to call for help without sacrificing your phone to the bottom of the bay. Stay clear of boat channels. Paddle defensively and assume powerboats may not see you. Do not overestimate your ability. A guided tour or introductory lesson can be a particularly good investment for a first trip on tidal water.

leisurely as you want it to be. Standing and balancing engages the core and stabilizing muscles while paddling works the shoulders, arms and back. Your legs are working, too, making constant small adjustments beneath you as the board moves. Pick up the pace and SUP can become a serious workout. Slow down and it becomes something closer to a floating nature walk. That versatility is arguably its greatest benefit. A paddler can spend an early morning cruising beside the marshes, stop moving and watch an egret hunt along the shoreline, or simply

sit down on the board for a few minutes and enjoy being surrounded by water. There is also room to grow. Once basic paddling becomes comfortable, enthusiasts can try longer excursions, SUP yoga, fishing, touring and eventually ocean paddling. But there is no prize for standing the longest or paddling the farthest. For a first outing, pick calm water, wear a life jacket, stay relatively close to your launch point and give yourself permission to wobble. Sometimes the best part of learning to paddleboard is discovering that falling in was never such a big deal in the first place.

Events Here are some of the fun events happening in the Wildwoods: AUGUST 21 Wildwoods PigDog Regatta & Beach Party

SEPTEMBER 12 - 13 Wildwoods Air Show SEPTEMBER 12 Wildwoods Food and Music Festival

AUGUST 23 - 27 Wildwoods August Restaurant Week AUGUST 28 - 30 OPA Greek Fest Sports Card, Toys, Comics & Collectibles August Show at the Wildwoods Convention Center

TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS

Arts in the Parks 7 p.m. | June 23 - August 27

TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS

Doo Wop and Neon Night Tours 8 p.m. | June 16 - August 27 SATURDAY MORNINGS UNTIL AUGUST 30

SEPTEMBER 5 Ed’s Funcade World Championship Skeeball Tournament SEPTEMBER 6 Wildwood End of Summer Block Party at Fox Park SEPTEMBER 11 - 12 Mummers New Year’s in North Wildwood SEPTEMBER 11 - 13 Roots Classic Volkswagen Car Show

Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEK Sundays at Fox Park 7:30 p.m. | June 28- August 30 Mondays at Sunset Lake 7:30 p.m. | June 29- August 24 Tuesdays at Crest Arts Pavilion 7 p.m. | June 30 - August 25 Wednesdays at Centennial Park 7 p.m. | Food Trucks 5-9 p.m. July 1 - August 26 Thursdays at Byrne Plaza 7:30 p.m. | June 18 - September 10 Saturdays at Centennial Park 7 p.m. | June 27 - September 5

North Wildwood Surf Fishing Tournament WILDWOODS ISLAND SHUTTLE—LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US Jitney service from Diamond Beach to Olde New Jersey Avenue... and everywhere in between! Download the free Jitney Surfer app. Plan your visit today and enter to win a free family vacation. WILDWOODSNJ.COM 800.992.9732

A workout with a view

Part of paddleboarding’s appeal is that it can be as athletic or as

39


Boardwalk rides: Where Ocean City memories are made By Marcella Curcio

O RNFS SU SSO LE

INCLUDES THE USE OF BOARD &WETSUIT

cea n Ci t y ’s Boardwalk has been part of the island’s summer experience for generations. Families return year after year for the rides, friends meet up for a night of fun, and children experience attractions that often become part of their favorite childhood memories. Growing up in Ocean City, I have plenty of those memories of my own, and when I think back on summers as a kid, so many of them lead right back to the Boardwalk.

Whether it was spending a night at Playland’s Castaway Cove, racing friends on the go-kart track or cooling off at the water park, these were the things that made summer feel like summer. At the time, I never really thought about these experiences becoming memories. They were simply what

we did. Looking back now, though, I realize how much those little traditions shaped what summer meant to me growing up in Ocean City. Playland’s Castaway Cove has always been a major part of the

Boardwalk experience, offering rides for all ages, from family attractions to thrill rides and roller coasters. Attractions include Double Shot, High Seas Log Flume, Tidal Wave, Extreme Cyclone, and Gale Force, giving visitors plenty of options whether they are looking for something exciting or simply want to enjoy a ride with family. Growing up, I always loved amusement park rides, especially roller coasters. One of my earliest memories of going upside down on a roller coaster was at Playland. There was something about standing in line with your friends, watching the coaster come around the track and wondering if you were ready for it. Once you were strapped in, there was no turning back. The nervousness quickly turned into excitement, and afterward, you immediately wanted to do it again.

Book Online www.7thStreetSurfShop.com

SURF CAMPS SURFBOARD RENTALS 654 Boardwalk, OC 1118 Boardwalk, OC Asbury ry Ave, OC 720 Asbur Asbu

609.391.1700

40

August 20, 2026


Go-karting was another part of growing up and spending time on the Boardwalk. I remember going with friends after riding the amusement rides. As preteens without driver’s licenses, getting behind the wheel of a go-kart made us feel cool. We obviously were not professional race car drivers, but that did not stop us from taking the competition seriously. There was plenty of laughing, friendly competition and probably some debate over who won. Someone always thought they had the fastest kart, someone else was convinced the race was unfair and there was always the possibility of a rematch. But that was part of the fun. Go-karting gave us another way to spend time together and became part of the typical summer night on the Boardwalk. When summer temperatures climb, the water park near the Music Pier offers another way to spend the day. OC Waterpark features attractions for different ages, including the Lazy River, Splashdown and Lil’ Buc’s Bay. Growing up, a trip to the water park always felt different from a regular day at the beach. It was something I looked forward to because it felt like an adventure of its own. The beach was something we could do almost every day during the summer, but going to the water park felt like an event. You were there for the day, moving from one attraction to another and trying to fit everything in. In my family, it eventually became something of an end-of-summer tradition. As August started winding down, there was always a feeling that we

↘Continued on 42

#1 PARTY TRAY STORE AT THE SHORE Chicken Tender Trays Chicken Cutlet Trays Filet Mignon Trays Shrimp Trays Charcuterie Trays

Hoagie, Wrap, Sandwich Trays Fruit and Veggie Trays Grilled Vegetable Trays Hors d’oeuvre Trays Rib Trays

BAYVIEW MARINA & WATERSPORTS One Location - Loads of Fun on the Bay 312-316 Bay Ave. Ocean City 609-399-5100

BAYVIEW JET SKI WAVERUNNER RENTALS 00

609-399-51

My friends and I would even make our own ride lists. We would decide which attractions we wanted to ride first, which ones we needed to get to before the night was over, and which rides we could potentially squeeze in one more time. It sounds simple, but those lists were part of the fun. We were not thinking about creating traditions or making memories. We were just a group of kids trying to make the most out of our night on the Boardwalk. Some of my favorite memories, however, were not necessarily on the biggest or fastest rides. For my family, Tidal Wave became a tradition. My mom, cousins, aunt, and uncle would often ride it together when we were kids, and everyone was in town. With its bouncing and spinning motion, it felt like we were jumping up and down while being tossed around at the same time. Eventually, we gave it our own name: the “frog ride.” That name stuck with us, and to this day, that is what I think of when I see Tidal Wave. Thousands of people can ride the same attraction throughout a summer, but every family can have its own story attached to it. For me, Tidal Wave is not just a childhood ride. I remember who I rode it with, and that is what makes it special. That is one of the things I love about the Boardwalk. It can be the same place for everyone, but everyone experiences it differently. One person might remember riding their first roller coaster, while someone else remembers getting ice cream with their grandparents or playing games with their cousins. The attractions provide the backdrop, but the people you share them with are what turn them into memories.

bayviewjetskirentals

312 BAY AVENUE OCEAN CITY (Between 3rd. & 4th. Street on Bay Ave)

Ride The Duck

Surf The Bay

All New Water Sports! 609-398-0008 314 Bay Ave. Ocean City

Kayaks • Paddle Boards • HOBIE Cat Sailing • Lessons, Rentals, Tours, Camps, Sales

316 Bay Avenue Ocean City NJ 609-391-7960

PARASAILING

Full Selection of House Made Entrées & Side Dishes Half pans - Full pans Baked Ziti, Lasagna, Eggplant Parm, Chicken Parm Filet Mignon - New York Strip Steak - Ribeye Steak - Prime Rib - Fresh Ground Sirloin Fresh Poultry - Pork Chops - Roasts - Baby Back Ribs - Serra Italian Sausage-Hand Press Burgers

1340 Asbury Ave. Ocean City Menu on Boyarsmarket.com

August 20, 2026

399-1343 398-5466 Delivery Available

609-398-1000 314 Bay Ave, Ocean City, NJ

www.FLYOCNJ.com 41


↘Continued from 41 inlet jetty

August

High

Low

AM

PM

AM

PM

Rise

Set

21

Fri

2:52

3:34

9:01

10:15

6:16

7:45

22

Sat

3:56

4:35

10:02

11:14

6:17

7:44

23

Sun

4:57

5:30

10:59

6:18

24

Mon

5:51

6:20

12:09

11:53

6:19

7:41

25

Tue

6:39

7:04

12:57

12:41

6:20

7:39

26

Wed

7:22

7:43

1:37

1:25

6:21

7:38

27

Thu

8:01

8:20

2:11

2:05

6:22

7:36

28

Fri

8:38

8:5

2:43

2:43

6:23

7:35

29

Sat

9:15

9:32

3:14

3:21

6:24

7:33

30

Sun

9:54

10:11

3:46

4:02

6:25

7:32

31

Mon

10:36

10:53

4:2

4:48

6:25

7:30

Moon

7:42

BAIT & TACKLE

needed to squeeze in one more trip before summer was over. I think that feeling is something many people who grew up at the shore can relate to. There comes a point every August when you realize summer is going by faster than you expected. Suddenly, there are only a few weeks left before school starts, the weather begins to change, and everyone starts talking about getting ready for fall. That is when you start trying to fit in those last few summer traditions, whether it is one more beach day, one more Boardwalk night, or one more trip to the water park. The Boardwalk attractions can be measured by their height, speed, and size, but those are not necessarily the things people remember years later. I remember making ride lists with my friends, going upside down on a roller coaster for the first time, racing go-karts when we were too young to drive, and riding Tidal Wave with my family and calling it the “frog ride.” Those memories are what make the rides more than just attractions. For one child, it might be a first roller coaster. For another, it could be a go-kart race with friends. For a family, it might be an afternoon at the water park or a ride shared. The experience may only take a few minutes, but the story surrounding it can stay with someone for decades. That is also what makes the Ocean City Boardwalk so special. The rides and attractions continue to evolve, but the experience of spending a summer night there remains familiar. New generations get to make their own traditions, just as

the generations before them did. Parents who once rode the rides as children can eventually bring their own kids back and watch them experience those same feelings of excitement and anticipation. For me, the Boardwalk rides are a reminder of growing up in Ocean City and the summers I spent here with family and friends. I remember the excitement of deciding what ride to go on next, the laughter that

came from racing my friends on the go-karts and the tradition of riding Tidal Wave with my family. At the time, those moments seemed ordinary. Now, they are some of the memories I value most. The rides may change over the years, but the memories they create remain. That is the beauty of growing up in a place like Ocean City. The Boardwalk becomes more than a collection of rides and attractions. It becomes part of your story. And for me, some of my favorite chapters started there.

609 - 601- BAIT (2248)

PREMIUM BAITS

DOCKSIDE ENTRANCE

WEIGH SCALE

CRABBING

ROD &

REEL REPAIR

HUGE INVENTORY! 10% OFF MILITARY/ POLICE/FIRE FIGHTERS

www.tightlinesnj.com tightlinesnj@yahoo.com

42

HOMEMADE SOUPS SERVED DAILY

SOUP & BREAKFAST SANDWICH SERVED SPECIALS ALL DAY

Open Daily 7am-3pm, Sunday 7am-2pm GOT BAIT?

Take Out Available

Enjoy Indoor or Outdoor Dining

415 Eighth Street • Ocean City • 609-399-4418 August 20, 2026


Dock, dine and unwind: Seven South Jersey restaurants to visit by boat By Sarah Fertsch

F

or boaters, a day on the back bays does not have to end when hunger strikes. From casual tiki bars and seafood institutions to hidden creekside hangouts, plenty of waterfront restaurants welcome guests arriving by water. Whether you are looking for a frozen cocktail at sunset, fresh seafood after a day of fishing or a laid-back lunch between trips around the bay, here are eight South Jersey spots where getting there can be half the fun.

Crabby Jack’s, Somers Point

Perched on Great Egg Harbor Bay behind the longtime Crab Trap restaurant, Crabby Jack’s is made for warm summer afternoons.

August 20, 2026

The seasonal outdoor bar and restaurant welcomes guests arriving by car or boat and serves seafood, sandwiches, salads and cold drinks overlooking the water. During the summer, live entertainment adds to the easygoing atmosphere seven nights a week. For boaters cruising between Ocean City and Somers Point, it is an especially convenient place to pull in, grab something casual and enjoy the breeze before heading back onto the bay.

Wonder Bar, Atlantic City

Atlantic City visitors do not have to step into the casinos to find a party. Wonder Bar sits directly on the bay and encourages guests to arrive by land, boat or even WaveRunner.

↘Continued on 44

43


↘Continued from 43

The Deck at Golden Nugget, Atlantic City

Diners can settle onto the waterfront deck, grab a drink at the tiki bar or head inside, where the renovated bar still overlooks the water. The atmosphere is casual and energetic, making Wonder Bar a natural stop for boaters looking for burgers, seafood, cocktails and live entertainment without straying far from the Intracoastal Waterway.

The Point, Somers Point

For a little tropical escapism without leaving South Jersey, steer toward The Point in Somers Point. The original Point location opened in 2019 at 998 Bay Ave. and combines white sand, tiki décor, fire pits, live music and open-bay views. Its menu leans toward casual island-style fare accompanied by creative cocktails and frozen drinks. Most importantly for boaters, make sure you are heading to the Somers Point location. The Point confirms that its Somers Point property has a boat dock, while its Sea Isle City and Wildwood locations do not.

Tuckahoe Inn, Beesleys Point

Just across the bay from Ocean City, the Tuckahoe Inn offers a slightly more traditional waterfront dining experience.

Dock your boat at the Golden Nugget for great views and exciting nightlife. The family-owned restaurant has been welcoming diners since 1963. The menu includes seafood alongside American favorites, while the waterfront setting offers expansive views across the bay. During the summer, the Back Bay Cafe adds a more casual option with live music overlooking the water. Boaters can arrive directly from the bay, with complimentary docking offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

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

Kelli A. Prinz, Esquire

44

3120 Fire Road, Suite 100, Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 609-317-0801 kap@djd.law | djdlawyers.com

The Deauville Inn, Strathmere

The Deauville Inn has turned dockand-dine service into an experience of its own. Located on the bay in Strathmere, the historic restaurant features several waterfront spaces, including its dining room, Oyster Bar, Sunset Deck and Sandbar. But boaters may be most interested in its docks. The Deauville offers 36 slips accommodating a range of vessels, along with dockhands who help boaters tie up. Guests can even order from the restaurant’s full food and drink menu and have their meal delivered directly to their boat. Slip reservations are available in advance. Add in a private beach and sunsets across the bay, and it is easy to turn dinner into an all-afternoon affair.

For boaters looking to trade a quiet afternoon on the water for Atlantic City nightlife, The Deck at Golden Nugget offers an easy transition. The seasonal Bayfront Bar & Restaurant sits at the water’s edge at Golden Nugget Atlantic City, alongside the marina. The outdoor venue serves food, frozen drinks and cocktails while hosting live entertainment and themed nights throughout the summer. The setting offers something distinctly different from the casino experience inside. Instead of gaming tables and slot machines, guests get marina views, passing boats, music and open air. It makes for an especially fun final destination after spending the day cruising the waterways around Brigantine and Atlantic City.

Make dinner part of the boat ride

One of the pleasures of boating around South Jersey is discovering just how connected its Shore communities are by water. A trip that might involve traffic lights, bridges and summer congestion by car can become a scenic ride past marshes, islands, waterfront homes and fishing boats.

Motts Creek Inn, Galloway

Hidden among the marshes of Galloway Township, Motts Creek Inn feels worlds away from the busy Shore towns. Reserve your slip in advance and take advantage of The casual creekside the dock crew at the Deauville Inn restaurant sits along Motts Creek, surrounding diners with Docking policies, available slips, marshland and wide-open views. tides and water depths can change, Guests can arrive by boat and tie particularly during busy summer up before heading to the deck for a weekends, so boaters should check relaxed meal. directly with a restaurant before departing and never assume space will The menu keeps things unfussy, be available. with burgers, sandwiches, seafood, peel-and-eat shrimp and other bar Then point the bow toward dinner. favorites. After all, when you can arrive at Motts Creek is particularly apthe restaurant by boat, even an ordipealing for boaters who prefer their nary meal feels like part of a summer waterfront dining with a little less adventure. polish and a little more character. It Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Townis the kind of place where a boat ride ship holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public through the marsh is just as memoRelations. She is a locally renowned rable as the meal waiting at the end. poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

August 20, 2026


Your summer memories may be on pause, but your home still needs care. We’ll be there to help protect your home until you’re back.

Heating / Cooling Install & Repair

Ductless Systems

Generators

Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Preventative Maintenance Plans

Financing Available: $0 DOWN, as low as $123 / Month

50 OFF

$

$

Tankless Tankless or or Standard Standard

Any Any Repair Repair Work Work

500 OFF

Hot Water Heater Install Restrictions apply. Must be presented at the time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Call for more details. Expires 8/31/2026

Cooling • Heating • Gas Furnaces Generators • Indoor Air Quality Restrictions apply. Must be presented at the time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Call for more details. Expires 8/31/2026

1,000 OFF

$

79 Heating Tune-Up

$

aa new new

Heating/Cooling System Restrictions apply. Must be presented at the time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Call for more details. Expires 8/31/2026

Restrictions apply. Must be presented at the time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Call for more details. Expires 8/31/2026

Why Homeowners Choose McAllister • Fast response for emergency repairs • Honest, upfront pricing • Highly trained HVAC professionals • Reliable products and installations • Maintenance plans to protect your system • Flexible financing and rebate options

4.8

Schedule a FREE estimate ON NEW INSTALL today! Call (609) 228-9063 or visit McService.com License: NJ Lic 13VH01483100 | M Burt-Plumbing Lic. # 8389 | Joseph P. Leto Electric Lic. #17479 | Electric Business Permit 6808A | S Needham-Master HVACR Lic. # 3980


Entertainment & Dining at the Shore By Steffen Klenk

Top Weekly Entertainment Picks

S

ummer may be nearing its end, but you still have plenty of time to check out these sensational celebrations. Dance the night away with Diana Ross, feel the flow of country artist Keith Urban, see Pauly D spinning the tunes, and enjoy incredible live music at the beach in Ventnor. Read all about it in our Top Weekly Entertainment Picks. Who: Diana Ross Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino When: Friday, August 21 Time: 9 p.m. Website: www.theoceanac.com/ diana-ross Witness the extraordinary sound of R&B’s most legendary voices this Friday. Diana Ross brings her Diana

Keith Urban in Motion Tour to Ovation Hall for an evening of iconic Motown hits and classics. Her solo career includes over twenty-five Top 40 singles, including “Endless Love”, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”, and “Love Hangover.”

Who: Keith Urban Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena When: Friday, August 21 & Saturday, August 22 Time: 8 p.m. Website: https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/

An Elevated Beachfront à la Carte Brunch Experience SUNDAYS | 9AM – 3PM | FREE PARKING

keith-urban Keith Urban delivers an electrifying stage presence, signature guitar shredding, and soulful vocals to Etess Arena. With an endless catalog of top-charting hits and high-octane performances, the country icon has

Celebrate with Parrotbeach — The Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band!

SEPTEMBER 5 | NOON – 4PM | BOARDWALK

MARGARITAVILLE CRUISE

EARN DOUBLE COMPS ALL SUMMER

The Boo Bar Pop-Up — Witches Edition

Earn 40 Tier Points Day of To Claim! SEPTEMBER 5 OR 6

THE HAUNT RETURNS AUGUST 21!

Play your favorite slot or table games and earn double comps!

2026 FORD MUSTANG ECOBOOST® RWD FASTBACK & $25,000 SLOT CASH SWEEPSTAKES

EXCLUSIVE PERKS FOR ATLANTIC & CAPE MAY COUNTY RESIDENTS:

10X Tier Points

• Free Self-Parking Every Day • 15% off at All Resorts Owned Restaurants

LIVE MUSIC

LIVE MUSIC

Uptown Motown

Rumours ATL — A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

AUGUST 22 & 26 | 6AM – 5:59AM

Earn Entries Through September 6 GRAND PRIZE DRAWING SEPTEMBER 6

MUST OPT IN AT THE KIOSK PRIOR TO PLAYING

VISIT RESORTSAC.COM FOR DETAILS

RESORTSAC.COM Visit the Promotion Booth for more information. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

46

AUGUST 29 | 8PM

SEPTEMBER 18 | 9PM

August 20, 2026


built a global fanbase and is regarded as one of the most respected country music artists. Hear Urban perform smooth sailing selections from his latest album, "Flow State," alongside his biggest hits. Who: Private Eyes: The Premier Daryl Hall & John Oates tribute Where: Superstar Theater at Resorts When: Friday, August 21 Time: 9 p.m. Website: www.resortsac.com/ events-and-promotions/halland-oates-tribute/ Take a trip back to the '80s and relive the chart-topping hits that captured a generation of fans. Private Eyes recreates the iconic sounds of Hall & Oates with their signature vocals, harmonies, and high-energy sound that made the group legends. Audiences will enjoy an evening of fan favorites and classic songs that will have you dancing on your feet.

Friday night. This weekend, the Yacht Lobsters step off the dock and onto the stage for an evening of yacht rock classics. Who: Ali Siddiq Where: Tropicana Showroom When: Saturday, August 22 Time: 8 p.m. Website: www.visitatlanticcity.com/ event/ali-siddiq%3a-the-custom-fittour/7324/ Get ready for a night of laughs and

What: Rewind Fridays Ali Siddiq Where: The Yard at Bally’s When: Friday, August 21 non-stop storytelling as Ali Siddiq Time: 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. brings his Custom Fit Tour to the Website: https://casinos.ballys.com/ Atlantic City stage. The renowned atlantic-city/entertainment/ comedian turns real-life experiences Step back in time and hear some of into hilarious narratives, delivering the best '70s and '80s tribute bands authentic comedy both personal and relatable to audiences. with free live performances every

August 20, 2026

Who: Modi Rosenfeld Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino When: Saturday, August 22 Time: 8 p.m. Website: www.theoceanac.com/ modi-rosenfeld Get ready for a night full of laughs and audience-savvy comedy as Modi Rosenfeld brings his standup tour to the shore. Modi has appeared in various TV specials on HBO, Netflix, and Comedy Central. He is constantly ranked as one of New York City’s best comedians and has toured the globe with wide acclaim. Who: DJ Pauly D Where: Borgata Outdoor Pool When: Saturday, August 22 Time: 10 p.m.

Website: https:// borgata.mgmresorts. com/en/amenities/ outdoor-pool.html The party is on this Saturday night as DJ Pauly D delivers a oneof-its-kind summer experience. Crowds will enjoy a high-energy, fist-pumping show filled with mixes of dance, house, hip-hop, and party anthems. Don’t miss your chance to be part of

DJ Pauly D the first-ever concert to be held at Borgata’s Outdoor Pool. Doors open at 7 p.m.

↘Continued on 48

47


↘Continued from 47 What: Ventnor Summer Beach Jam Where: Newport Avenue Beach When: Saturdays Time: 6:30 p.m. Website: www.ventnorcity.org/calendar/549/ Soak up the summer fun with free outdoor concerts on the beach in Ventnor. Get out of your seat and groove to a Time Travelers Decades Show this Saturday night. Live music will begin at 6:30 p.m. There will be plenty of food and vendors on site.

Who: Comedian Tom Cotter Live in Margate Where: Dominick Potena PAC When: Saturday, August 22 Time: 8 p.m. Website: www.comiccure.com/margate Tom Cotter has taken the comedy world by storm since being runner-up and Breakout Star from Season 7 of "America’s Got Talent." He has been featured on "The Tonight Show," "Comics Unleashed," and "Comedy Central," among other appearanc-

Comedian Tom Cotter es, and has released his own book chronicling jokes, gags, and one-liners. See Tom Cotter live in Margate this Saturday. The event will benefit Reed’s Farm and the Humane Society of Ocean City.

Ventnor City Beach Jam features a Time Travelers Decades Show this Saturday, August 22.

What: Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk Where: Kennedy Plaza When: Mondays Time: 7 p.m. Website: www.tonymart.com/calendar-Mardi%20Gras.htm Don’t miss your chance to see some of the most acclaimed live artists and New Orleans-inspired acts ev-

ery Monday night throughout the month of August. Upcoming shows include a Celebration of the Allman Brothers ‘Live at Fillmore East’ with Melody Trucks, Vaylor Trucks, and members of the Gregg Allman Band this Monday, Aug. 24. And mark your calendars as Flow Tribe, the explosive NOLA jam band, hits the boardwalk on Aug. 31. 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.

~ ~

FULL BAR

HAPPY HOUR 7 DAYS A WEEK 4-7PM

Reduced Price on a Selection of

Bottles of Wine Sun-Thurs 1pm-10pm • Fri & Sat 1pm-11pm GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

www.miyakomargate.com

9210 Ventnor Avenue, Margate • (609) 822-4759

48

­ ­

­ ­

August 20, 2026


U P C O M I N G

S H O W S

SAT, OCT 3

JON PARDI

RICKY MARTIN

GODSMACK

FRI, SEP 18

FRI, OCT 16

CHICAGO

JEFFERSON STARSHIP

EARTH, WIND & FIRE

FRI & SAT, NOV 6 & 7

FRI, NOV 20

FRI & SAT, DEC 11 & 12

FRI, OCT 23

DJ JOHNNY LOOCH LOBBY BAR | 9:30PM - 1:30AM

FOR TICKETS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY, VISIT: HARDROCKHOTELATLANTICCITY.COM BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER ©2026 BOARDWALK 1000, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.


The curtain is ready to drop on ‘The Hook’ The Casino File By Chuck Darrow

AUGUST SPECIALS • OPEN DAILY 7AM - 9PM •

ENTREES ST. LOUIS BBQ RIBS 25

Slow roasted St. Louis ribs served with buttered corn and house made cole slaw.

KOREN BBQ SHORT RIB 25

Sweet and salty Korean BBQ short ribs served with mashed potatoes and asparagus..

BBQ PORK CHOP 27

Grilled 12 oz bone-in pork chop smothered in BBQ sauce served with mashed potatoes and asparagus.

DESSERTS CREME BRULEE 9 NY CHEESECAKE 7 COBBLER DU JOUR 7

R

oughly three-and-a-quarter years after its oh-so-promising debut, “The Hook,” the groundbreaking (for Atlantic City) production show at Caesars Atlantic City is in its home stretch. On Sept. 6, the program that reportedly cost $40 million to bring to life ($36 million of which went into building out the theater that is also called The Hook) will cease operations. While plans for the facility have yet to be revealed by Caesars’ management, now isn’t the time to gaze into the future, but to limn the past and dive into what was right, and what went wrong, with the concept that was supposed to usher in a new era of casino entertainment in Our Town. When, in December, 2022, Las Vegas-based production company Spiegelworld announced the deal to develop the concept — which included the theater, show and a “psychedelic Italian” restaurant called Superfrico — the news was the equivalent of a 10,000-volt shot of electricity to Atlantic City's show biz scene. As laid out by Spiegelworld overlord Ross Mollinson, the plan was to provide Atlantic City with a foundational

element of Las Vegas’ casino-entertainment landscape: A permanent, year-round production housed in its own, custom-built theater. The show itself was hardly groundbreaking, as it combined raunchy, adults-only comedy with the kind of specialty acts (aerialists, jugglers, contortionists) that fill the rosters of Cirque du Soliel extravaganzas and the countless knockoffs that followed in their wake. But, especially in its early days when the talented Scout Durwood shared star billing with the first of several performers who ap-

peared as emcee “Dick Marlin,” “The Hook” was a sharp, breezy and fun 75 minutes. But what made the concept exciting was that it would — theoretically anyway — provide people living within three hours or so of AC a reason to come here on weeknights during the cold-weather months. But Mollinson and his team, though bullish on the city, apparently didn’t think things through to a large-enough degree: History has long proved that short of Elvis Presley

LIVE

THUR M USIC S&S AT Subs & Pizza

MONDAY SNOW CRAB 30 TUESDAY 12 oz PRIME RIB 25 FRIDAY LOBSTER TAIL 42

Join Us avorite for All Your F od Italian, Seafo hes and Pasta Dis

650 New Road Somers Point, NJ (609) 653-8155

BYOB

Joe's Mediterranean Grille

131 Jordan Road, Somers Point, NJ

609-927-4637

All Beverages Welcome

Daily Hours: 10:30 am - 9 pm • Closed on Tuesday

50

August 20, 2026


or Michael Jackson returning from the dead and performing, it’s unlikely anything would bring in enough paying customers from Staten Island or Cherry Hill or the Philly Main Line on a Tuesday night in January or February. Quite frankly, from that first winter (of 2024) the year-round format clearly made no business sense. Of course, weather wasn’t the only impediment to bringing the Vegas playbook to town. The reason attractions like the various Cirque shows, Penn & Teller’s decades-long residency at the Rio casino and Spiegelworld’s long-running (and hilarious) “Absinthe” at Caesars Palace not only survive but thrive is that even in the dead of winter, tens of thousands of people are going there for massive industry expos. For instance, the Consumer Electronic Show, which during the first week of 2026 — pretty much the slowest week of all locally — had an attendance just south of 150,000. And once the festivities shut down for the day, many of those attendees went looking for entertainment. Unfortunately, Atlantic City simply doesn’t do business anywhere near that scale. Another issue with “The Hook” was that, as Mollison told this column in early 2023, it was significantly dependent on repeat business. However, while cast members were

August 20, 2026

regularly replaced, the nature of the acts remained constant; one aerialist simply took over for another. Which meant there was little incentive for a large swath of the public to see “The Hook” more than once or twice. So, what will be the legacy of “The Hook?” To put it as succinctly as possible, it should be remembered for what it was: A noble idea that was doomed from the start by conditions and situations over which it had virtually no control. And while Mollison and the Spiegelword crew may go down in local history as the authors of the biggest entertainment failure of the legal-gaming era (with $40 million worth of help from the no-longerin-place Caesars management team that signed off on the deal), it would be unfair to not give them credit for taking a shot others were too timid to attempt. The hope here is that somehow, some way, someone will not be scared off by what happened and figure out how to successfully achieve what “The Hook” couldn’t. For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.

Stray Cats rip it up at Ocean

Those rippin’ rajahs of rockabilly known as Stray Cats turned in a typi-

cally raucous and wholly entertaining performance last Saturday night at a sold-out Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Resort. The almost-50-year-old trio — which also includes virtuoso standup bass player Lee Rocker and human metronome Slim Jim Phantom on drums — is back on the road for the first time since guitarist-lead vocalist-composer Brian Setzer successfully completed treatment for an unnamed-but-debilitating autoimmune disease that caused him to lose use of his hands — a condition that seemed hard to fathom Saturday given Setzer’s set-long, six-string pyrotechnics. The musical turf the Cats inhabit is 1950s rockabilly, a building block of rock 'n' roll marked by twangy, echo-enhanced guitar. While highly

energetic and often irresistible, it’s a musically limited format based almost entirely on a three-chord blueprint known in musical circles as I-IV-V. Though elemental, it can also be quite tedious after 20 or 30 minutes. But what made the almosttwo-dozen-song set so exciting and downright enjoyable was the combination of the three musicians’ top-shelf playing, their loosey-goosey stage presence (including Phantom beating the skins while standing throughout the entire program) and a repertoire that combined such beloved band signatures as “Stray Cat Strut,” “Runaway Boys,” “Rumble in Brighton” and their biggest hit, “Rock This Town,” with a number of perfectly suited covers. The latter included a typically high-octane “Twenty Flight Rock” (an iconic rockabilly track originally recorded by the late Eddie Cochran), Arthur Crudup’s “My Baby Left Me” (delivered with solid lead vocals by Rocker) and a mid-show run-through of Santo & Johnny’s haunting instrumental “Sleepwalk,” which provided a nice respite from the otherwise revved-up numbers that filled out the bulk of the performance. Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.

51


'Remembering Dion' draws large crowd to new Atlantic City restaurant

By Doug Deutsch

F

riends, family members and music fans recently gathered at Nuso Cucina in Atlantic City to remember area musician Dionardo Lavinci, known as the “Prince of AC.” The tribute featured musicians who had worked with Dion. Longtime rock accordionist Malcolm Tent delivered a eulogy for Dion, who played drums on Tent’s 2019 release, “Nada Chants.” Cheezy and the Crackers closed the event with a spirited set in his honor. “The original Atlantic City music community came out to remember Dion,” said Stephen Weiss, a local promoter who helped organize the gathering. More than 150 friends, relatives and fans attended, according to Weiss. Performers included former Dion collaborators Position 9 and Haly Daly, followed by Mersey. David Earl of Anchor Rock Club provided sound. “Cheezy and the Crackers, Dion’s favorite band, took us home with some great reggae tunes,” Weiss said.

“With Nuso Cucina Lesson said the set to be the next big patio could become a thing for independent setting for live music entertainment, and and special events as this first event showwork continues. ing what community “We want to creis about, like Dion ate an atmosphere where people can always said, ‘We are enjoy good food, living the dream.’ And drinks and music what a dream it has been.” and spend time with Nuso Cucina ownfriends,” he said. “The er Joey Lesson said idea behind Nuso he was pleased with Cucina was to create the turnout and plans a restaurant that was to bring more live approachable and music to the restau- Musician Haly Daly was one of community-oriented rant, located on the many musicians who performed while still putting a lot of thought into beach block of South at Remembering Dion recently New York Avenue in Photo by Doug Deutsch the food and overall Atlantic City’s Orange experience.” Loop. Lesson said Weiss approached the “We definitely want to incorporate restaurant about hosting the tribute. more live music into Nuso Cucina,” “We wanted to support Stephen Ienuso said. “We’re planning to have and the local music community, and more live music on weekends, and we Nuso Cucina felt like a natural place to expect it to become a much bigger host it,” Ienuso said. “We were happy focus next season as we continue deto provide a space where friends, muveloping and setting up the outdoor sicians and members of the commupatio.” nity could come together to celebrate

Dion’s life." Haly Daly, a frequent collaborator who performed during the tribute, remembered Dion as a gifted and versatile musician. “Dion was always at the heart of the Atlantic City music scene — a oneof-a-kind gem who could literally play anything you asked him to,” Daly said. Daly also recalled sharing a home with Dion, whom Daly described as a “partner in rhyme and rhythm.” “One of my favorite memories of our time together was the morning routine,” Daly said. “I would be taking a shower, singing whatever ditty came to mind, and thanks to the old walls, by the time the water was off, he would be awake and have an accompanying guitar, bass line or percussion part laid out. We would instantly lose track of time.” Their home became known among friends as the “Rock & Roll Beach House,” a name Dion gave it. “Sending him off with sound waves was the only way to celebrate his extraordinary life and the impact he had on so many people in and outside the Atlantic City music scene,” Daly said.

Cool Down This Summer at

Coupon expires 9-30-26

52

August 20, 2026


DISCOVER THE NEW

Steel Pier alumni reunion celebrates Atlantic City history By Delaney Crawford

S

Happy Hour Everyday Mimosa Sundays Open for Lunch & Dinner Everyday except Mon.

Breakfast & Brunch Weekends

54

teel Pier opened in Atlantic City in 1898 and quickly became known as the “Showplace of the Nation.” With attractions such as the famous diving horse and performances by major entertainers, including Frank Sinatra, the pier became a centerpiece of the city’s entertainment scene. More than a century later, Steel Pier remains a popular destination for residents and visitors. Although it has changed significantly over the years, its history lives alongside modern amusement rides, restaurants, bars and other attractions. That history will be celebrated during the annual Steel Pier Alumni Reunion from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23. Atlantic City native Jim Craine has organized the reunion for about 20 years, bringing together former employees, performers and visitors to reconnect and share memories. Craine worked at Steel Pier from 1963 to 1973. During that time, he performed onstage, cared for the diving horses and worked as an usher in the Music Hall. The free event is open to the public, including those who never experienced the original Steel Pier. Craine said he hopes attendees will enjoy its history while discovering what the landmark offers today. Craine and Teddy Fusco will perform during the reunion. Guests can also enjoy food and drinks, enter to win free ride tickets Jim Craine and spend the afternoon reconnecting with friends. Donations collected during the event will benefit the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, a Brigantine-based nonprofit organization that rescues and rehabilitates stranded marine animals. “It’s going to be a really cool event, and we just want everyone to know about it and come join us,” Craine said. “I hope people come and bask in the history, as well as just have a

great day in Atlantic City.” For Craine, the event is also a celebration of his hometown and his lifelong connection to the city. “This is my hometown,” he said. “I grew up on the Inlet, lifeguarded here for 25 years and sang in the casinos. I want people to see that history and feel the magic of Atlantic City again.” Craine said another goal of the reunion is to showcase what Steel Pier has become. Its amusement rides, food options and ocean views offer visitors a modern experience while maintaining a connection to its storied past. The reunion will bring together a little of old Atlantic City and a little of new Atlantic City, offering the community an opportunity to honor the past while creating new memories. Whether they spent childhood summers at Steel Pier, once worked or performed there or have never visited, guests are invited to enjoy the

music, food, attractions and ocean views while experiencing a landmark where generations of Atlantic City history unfolded. Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DLC Media, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.

August 20, 2026


Keith Urban brings 'High and Alive' tour to Hard Rock Live for two shows

Tune In Turn On with Doug Deutsch

C

ountry music superstar Keith Urban has always been something of an anomaly. Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, he later became a U.S. citizen after moving to Nashville in 1992. Urban comes to Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 21 and 22, for two performances on his “High and Alive” tour.

said. “You get to do it every day.” Urban and actress Nicole Kidman divorced in 2025 after 19 years of marriage. They have two daughters. Urban has largely avoided publicly discussing the split, instead keeping the focus on his music and touring. So, what can fans expect from a Keith Urban concert? His shows are an energetic blend of modern country and arena rock, driven by blistering guitar solos and warm interaction with the crowd. Urban frequently walks extended catwalks to connect directly with

music. While I eventually returned to New Jersey, the singer-songwriter remained in Los Angeles and built a successful career. He now divides his time between Southern California and Italy, where his wife was born. The Somers Point native returns home Thursday, Aug. 20, to perform his original music at Gateway Playhouse. The show begins at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. Bassett will donate the proceeds to the the-

ater. Gateway Playhouse is located at 738 Bay Ave. in Somers Point. Tickets are $27. For tickets and information, visit gatewaybythebay.org. 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

Country superstar Keith Urban: at Hard Rock Live this Friday and Saturday Before moving to the United States, Urban released his self-titled debut album in Australia in 1991. His first American solo album, also titled “Keith Urban,” followed in 1999 and introduced him to a worldwide audience. More than three decades later, Urban remains focused on growing as both a musician and a person. “Guitar-wise, I’d like to work on playing less,” Urban told iHeartCountry in a January interview. “Don’t play the next two notes I was about to play. That would be good. Have confidence that the one you’re playing right now is more than enough, and let it sit for a second.” Urban also spoke about remaining grounded and approaching each day with intention. “As a friend of mine says, ‘Just work on how you introduce yourself to the day,’ and I thought that was an absolutely beautiful phrase,” Urban

August 20, 2026

fans, reads signs from the audience and occasionally brings concertgoers onstage. He has also been known to leave the stage and make his way through the crowd. The result is a show that can feel both larger than life and surprisingly personal. With all that in mind, expect two raucous nights of country music when Urban comes to Atlantic City this weekend. We’ll be there, and we can’t wait. Keith Urban performs at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 21 and 22, at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City. For tickets and information, visit casino. hardrock.com/atlantic-city.

Tune-ups: Josh Bassett presents 'Jersey Magick'

Josh Bassett and I have something in common: We both moved to California to pursue careers in

55


A taste of history at The Anchorage Tavern in Somers Point While Anchorage's legendary Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is famously enormous, we decided to go with a few more manageable choices. My mom ordered the Hot Roast Beef Sandwich with fries. The sandwich was piled high with tender roast beef and topped with provolone, with a side of au jus for dipping. The fries came out fresh from the fryer, so naturally, I had to help her finish them. My husband went with the Anchorage Chicken Melt, featuring a large, crispy chicken breast topped with bacon and Swiss cheese. The real star, however, was the side of ranch, perfect for drenching the

By Holly Martin

T

he Anchorage Tavern is the oldest continuously operated business establishment in Somers Point, with roots dating back to circa 1874, when it opened as the Trenton Hotel. Over the decades, the landmark has seen its share of colorful characters and memorable moments. During Prohibition, it was reportedly a popular stop for rum runners, and throughout its history, the tavern became known for its lively atmosphere, games of chance and larger-than-life personality. The Anchorage later built a reputation for Italian food, live entertainment and its famous sevenbeers-for-a-dollar promotion, which inspired the now-collectible 7-for-1 T-shirts. In 1993, the owners restored the historic building and continued its tradition of welcoming generations of locals and visitors. Today, The Anchorage remains a beloved Somers Point landmark, preserving more than a century of Jersey Shore history while continuing to make memories

The Anchorage is a Somers Point landmark, serving up good food, good times and plenty of Jersey Shore history. of its own. On a warm summer evening, the sounds of seabirds and traffic along Bay Avenue greeted us as we pulled into the Anchorage parking lot. Both the restaurant and tavern sides were bustling with laughter and conversation. We were seated right away on the tavern side, near the door, giving

us a perfect view of the passing cars and boats. Inside, the decor is just as memorable as the history. Framed articles featuring “murderers’ last meals,” nautical artwork, an alligator hanging from the ceiling and license plates nailed to the beams give the space The Pineapple Mojito mocktail was bubbly, refreshing and a quirky, unmistakably minty with just the right hint of pineapple. Anchorage feel. I started with a Pineapple Mojito sandwich. Rich, cheesy and incredibly mocktail, which arrived within minsatisfying, this could easily become utes. Bubbly, refreshing and minty his new go-to order.

Stacked high with tender roast beef, melted provolone and served with a side of au jus for dipping, The Anchorage Tavern’s Hot Roast Beef Sandwich is the ultimate comfort-food classic. with just the right hint of pineapple, it was the perfect drink for a hot summer evening. We arrived toward the end of lunch, so we opted for sandwiches.

56

I chose the Crab Cake Sandwich, served on a fresh Kaiser roll with lettuce and a beautiful slice of to-

↘Continued on 58 August 20, 2026


At the Shore Since '44

World Famous Wings & BBTs (Boneless Tenders) Entrees, Burgers, Sandwiches, Wraps, Soups, Nachos, Tacos and Fries.

Fine Dining at it's Casual Best! GET CRUSHED!

Enjoy a Fresh Squeezed Orange or Grapefruit Crush!

Phillies Game Specials $3 Budweiser Drafts $5 Nutrl Cans

16 Beers On Tap! Front Bar & Back Bar!

Watch All The Phillies and Sports Action on 21 TVs! Sunday Breakfast 9am-11am

Serving our nearly famous Pork Roll, Egg and Cheese

BEST BAR

BEST WINGS

800 Shore Rd. Somers Point (609) 927-3663

www.charliesbar.com


↘Continued from 56

chunks of fresh tomato and crisp basil. I could easily picture myself coming back in the fall, enjoying an entire pie while watching an Eagles game on one of the many TVs throughout the tavern. The staff was friendly and clearly busy preparing for the evening rush, but our service remained quick and welcoming. As we Packed with lump crab meat and broiled to golden settled the bill and headed perfection, The Anchorage Tavern’s Crab Cake out, the Anchorage was Sandwich is a Jersey Shore classic. already transitioning into another busy night. the industry. She has also hosted as There’s a reason The Anchora DJ and created the blog SNJ Sober Party Girl. She enjoys sharing stories age Tavern has remained a Somers Point favorite for generations. It’s that inspire connection and commumore than a restaurant and bar; it nity. is a piece of Jersey Shore history, where the food, atmosphere and stories are all part of the experience. After more than 150 years, the Anchorage is still doing what it has always done The Margarita Bar Pie features thin crust pizza best: welcoming people with gooey melted cheese, chunks of fresh tomato through its doors and givand crisp basil. ing them a reason to come earned their “world famous” repuback. tation. Holly Martin has been Before we left, we had to try one immersed in the media world Crispy chicken, crispy bacon, melted Swiss and a side since 2012, building a dynam- of ranch for dipping—The Anchorage Chicken Melt more thing: the Margarita Bar Pie. The thin-crust pizza arrived hot and ic and versatile career that is the kind of sandwich that makes you wonder why loaded with gooey melted cheese, spans nearly every corner of you haven’t ordered it sooner. mato. A side of jalapeño-lime mayonnaise allowed me to add just the right amount of heat and flavor. The house-made crab cake was packed with lump crab meat and broiled to golden perfection. It’s easy to see why the Anchorage crab cakes have

­ ­­

58

August 20, 2026


Atlantic City Headliners

Thursday, August 20

Uptown Motown

▶8 p.m.

Magical Mystery Doors

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Sunday, August 30

Friday, August 21

Alabama

▶8 p.m.

Diana Ross

▶8 p.m.

Borgata Event Center

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Keith Urban

Friday, September 4

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena UpDating

▶9 p.m.

Photo credit: Modi Rosenfeld Facebook Photo credit: Demi Lovato Facebook

Sound Waves at Hard Rock Kathleen Madigan

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, August 22

Ali Siddiq

▶5 p.m. & 8 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom

Sunday, August 23 Boat House Row

Friday, August 28

Ricardo Montaner

▶8 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall Zarna Garg

Squeeze w/ Adam Ant

▶8 p.m.

▶9 p.m.

Borgata Event Center Demi Lovato

▶9 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock Beatles vs. Stones: A Musical Showdown

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Wu-Tang Clan

▶7:30 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Cooper Alan

Saturday, September 5

The Music Box at Borgata

Keith Urban

▶4 p.m.

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Modi

Monday, August 24

▶8 p.m.

▶5 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Kathleen Madigan

▶7 p.m.

Saturday, August 29

On Sale This Week

The Music Box at Borgata Bee Gees Gold

Wednesday, August 26

▶8 p.m.

▶Friday, November 20

▶8 p.m.

▶Friday, December 18

▶8 p.m.

▶8 p.m. ▶8 p.m.

▶3 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

NO COVER ·

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Melody Trucks, Vaylor Trucks & the Fitzkee Brothers Kennedy Plaza

Dead Zep w/ Hayley Jane

▶7 p.m.

Kennedy Plaza

$

3 BEERS

The Music Box at Borgata

Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias

Borgata Event Center

Air Supply

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Collective Soul Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Gwen Stefani

Borgata Event Center Richard Marx

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT BBQ FROM THE GRILL SUMMERTIME COCKTAILS

OPEN EVERY DAY AT 11AM (Weather permitting)

ENTER TAINM E

YACHT LOBSTERS

YACHT ROCK TRIBUTE AUGUST 21

THE DISCOTEKS

DISCO 70’S TRIBUTE AUGUST 28

NT

BEACHSIDE PART

Y

SUMM

ERTIM

E C OC K

TAILS

HAPPY HOUR

¦¨¡ ¬ ¥ ¬ £ g "£ &£

MOST OFFERS. MOST REWARDS. MOST VALUE.

& £ © ¡ ¨ § ¡ § § ¬ ¡ % !

August 20, 2026

59


Drink Up! By David Setley

I

Cold wines to beat the heat!

don’t know about you, but these hot and humid days of August make me reach for cold and refreshing beverages to beat the heat. Cold wine is a surefire way to enjoy these remaining weeks of summer. Read on for some white, rosé, and chillable red wines to enjoy by the beach, the pool, or on your porch (maybe with a fan). Crisp and refreshing white wines come to mind for many in the summer. Gratsi White, a French Sauvignon Blanc with a touch of Chardonnay, is an excellent option. And, it’s a boxed wine! I know, I know. This recommendation may surprise some of you, but I personally have enjoyed Gratsi wines for a few years now. A three-liter box of Gratsi is equivalent to four standard 750 ml bottles and is a convenient way to take wine on a boat, to the pool, or keep in your fridge for guests who come and go. The wine is made with zero added sugar and none of the 76 FDA-allowed additives that are found in some wines. It’s an excellent cold wine with a bright citrus acidity, balanced with a clean minerality on the

60

finish. Plus, with no sugar added, this wine is only 93 calories per 5-ounce serving. Another great summer white is the Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc Viognier blend. Pine Ridge Vineyards were established in the Stags Leap region of Napa Valley in 1978. This blend started as the winemaker’s experiment to see if these two estate grapes would blend well together. Well, they sure did, and this became one of the vineyard’s most successful wines. The result is a dry, crisp, fresh wine with a touch of sweetness and notes of white peach, nectarine, kiwi, and lime zest with a wonderful minerality. This is a true crowd-pleaser. Chenin Blanc wines are among my favorite white wines. They have more body than Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc but less than Chardonnay. The birthplace of this varietal is believed to be the Loire Valley of central France, in a subregion called Vouvray. My favorite example of this wine is the Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray Cuvee Silex. This organic-certified wine features notes of apple, pear, quince and citrus fruit, with a flint-like minerality. Silex is the French word for flint. Chenin Blanc is also widely grown in South Africa. The Painted Wolf

Chenin Blanc or the Unorthodox Chenin Blanc from Swartland, South Africa are great summer whites. The flavors are very similar to a French version, but with a bit less minerality. If you haven’t tried Chenin Blanc, summer is perfect. Sauvignon Blancs are a warm-weather favorite. California and New Zealand wines are very popular, but the French versions of these wines, particularly from Sancerre, have been red hot this year. Sancerre is a region of the eastern Loire Valley. In true old-world style, the wine is known by its regional identity, not the grape varietal. Sancerre Sauvignon Blancs are more elegant than many from other countries. The fruit flavors of green apple and citrus are more subtle, and the minerality is more intense. Two wonderful examples are the Henri Bourgeois Sancerre and the Lauverjat Perle Blanc Sancerre. Two other French Sauvignon Blancs that are a bit less expensive are the Menetou Salon Sauvignon Blanc and the Roc de l'Abbaye Sauvignon Blanc. Both of these are still from the Loire Valley, but not from Sancerre. They have the same elegance as their Sancerre cousins, but with slightly less minerality. Rosé wines are a very popular choice for summer, with many great options available. A few of my favorite picks include the Lionel Osmin La Vie En Rosé, an excellent and affordable wine that will not disappoint. This wine is made from 100% Negrette grapes indigenous to the Sud Ouest region of France. Also try the Aragosta Rosé from Sardinia, Italy for a light and delicious brut rosé made from Cannonau grapes. This grape was made famous in the Blue Zone studies, when it was identified as one of the factors in making citizens of

Sardinia live long, healthy lives. Finally, I urge you to try the Gratsi Rosé boxed wine from Southern France. This wine is made from French Malbec, Gamay, and a touch of Merlot. As with the Gratsi White, this wine will change your view of boxed wines. Who says you have to put away reds for the summer? Not me! Many red wines are delicious served chilled and definitely have a place at your summer get-togethers. A wonderful light-bodied and chillable red is Gamay. Though often forgotten here, Gamay is a summertime favorite in France. The wines made from this grape are elegant and slightly more fruit-forward than Pinot Noir, making them perfect for chilling. Thevenet & Fils Macon Pierreclos Gamay from Burgundy or the Chidaine Touraine Gamay from the Loire Valley are both great, and affordable, examples. The ideal serving temperature for Gamay is 55°F to 60°F, but in warmer weather, this varietal does well as cold as 50°F. The two California reds I enjoy are Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, both of which can be served slightly chilled (60°F to 65°F), even as fuller-bodied reds. The OZV Old Vine Zinfandel from Lodi is dry but fruit-forward, making it a crowd-pleaser for red lovers. Zinfandel has notes of raspberry, blackberry, and cinnamon with medium tannins. The Petite Sirah varietal has high tannins and notes of blueberry, plum, chocolate, and black tea. I love the J. Lohr Tower Road Petite Sirah; or the Old Soul Petite Sirah from Lodi is one of the easiest drinking dry red wines for summer. Bairrada in central Portugal produces a grape named Baga that just may make the world’s best chillable red wine. Caves São João has been a major producer in this region for more than 100 years. Baga Nova is a minimal intervention, natural wine that is dry but bright, showcasing an intensely fresh and elegant profile. It offers notes of red fruits, strawberry, dried roses, and a hint of spices. It is ideally served at 50°F to 55°F and has only 11% alcohol, making it a perfect red to combat the summer heat. As you prepare for these “Hot August Night[s],” (a small ode to the great Neil Diamond), I hope you try some of these cold wines to beat the heat. As always, contact me with any questions at dsetley@passionvines. com, or stop into 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.

August 20, 2026


GO FOR THE

BIGGEST ACTS. AND THE HOTTEST TRACKS.

THURSDAYS

SUNDAYS

NOW - SEPTEMBER 3

NOW - SEPTEMBER 6

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

Get Ready for the ultimate tribute to the 70’s & 80’s, featuring soft rock such as Hall & Oates, Michael McDonald, Kelly Loggins, Christopher Cross, Steely Dan, Toto, icons of a sound that defined an era.

*No show on July 9.

Ticket purchase required.

AUGUST 28

G O TO OC E A N | GO FO R THE WIN LEARN MORE AT T H E O C E A N A C . C O M Visit theOceanAC.com for full details. Must be 21 or older to wager or consume alcohol. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

SEPTEMBER 17 - 20 SEPTEMBER 24 - 27


Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, August 20

UPCOMING SHOWS

JOSH BASSETT

PRESENTS JERSEY MAGICK

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

Atlantic City Angeloni’s Club Madrid Kiara Vos 6 p.m. 2400 Arctic Ave. Landshark Bar & Grill Smokey Starr 5- 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Dane Anthony 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget B Street Band 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Big Hix 7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Kono Nation 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy Dennis Matthews 6 – 9 p.m. 6629 Black Horse Pike Linwood Fox Den at LCC Cole Moore 6 – 10 p.m. 500 Shore Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Kadin Sevene 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave.

Tideline Freddie Maul 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Bob Kelly’s Dance Party 5 – 8 p.m. Karaoke Night w/ DJ Mike 8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Starr 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s NYC 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Keegan McDevitt

community SPOTLIGHT

The Vagina Monologues AUGUST 22 & 23

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS Book Launch Celebration

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30

GATEWAYBYTHEBAY.ORG

609-653-0553

738 BAY AVENUE | SOMERS POINT, NJ

62

August 20, 2026


Photo credit: Sensational Soul Cruisers Facebook 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Gregory’s Bob & Bob 6 p.m. 800 Shore Rd. Josie Kelly’s Toni Teschner & Billy Walton 6:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Sensational Soul Cruisers 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Friday, August 21 Atlantic City Bally’s Beach Bar Cat 5 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave.

Borgata B Bar Jimmy Brogan Trio 7:30 – 11 p.m. Kenny Raye Trio 11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Aaron & Eve Duo 7 p.m. Turning the Tide 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s Paul Tozz 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Chris Yoder Duo 6 – 10 p.m. The Deck Band 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. Steel Pier No Clue Duo 7 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Sensational Soul Cruisers 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Split Decision 5 – 8:30 p.m. Suit & Mai Tai

↘Continued on 64

...When nothing else will do!!!

LaPizzatega

Restaurant & Pizzeria

Veal • Chicken • Seafood • Pizza • Pasta • Subs Salads • Party Trays • Gluten Free Pizza & Pasta

SUMMER 653-8442 SUMMER CAPE MAY SUMMER

Serving Up Quality and Value for nearly 30 Years

Dining Room Fully Open Take Out - Delivery Catering For All Occasions

Linwood Greene Shopping Plaza 210 New Road (Rt 9), Linwood

CONVENTION HALL

2026 CONCERTS Music for the Milestones SUNDAY, AUGUST 23

BLUE OYSTER CULT

s a Land

m k ar

50 Y

r ea

T AND ONL RS FI CAPE MAY Y

August 20, 2026

y

17

5

it

Ye a a C rs

609.884.9565

CAPEMAYCITY.COM CAPEMAYFIRSTANDONLY.COM

PURCHASE TICKETS

63


↘Continued from 63 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Yard at Bally’s Yacht Lobsters 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Gypsy Wisdom 6 – 10 p.m. DJ Pat Man 10 p.m. – close 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy Russ Knight 6 – 9 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike The Roost Pub & Grill Yachtzee Duo 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 500 St. Andrews Dr. Linwood Fox Den at LCC Tony P. Band 6 – 10 p.m. 500 Shore Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Bobby Williams Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Memories Jamison 8 p.m.

Photo by Matt Cannon/ Turning the Tide Facebook

31

JULY

NOLAN QUINN

1

JERSEY BEACH BOYS

7

AUG

GLENN ROBERTS

13

BOURBON TASTING DINNER

AUG

AUG

TRIBUTE SHOW - ticketed event

ticketed event

14

CHRIS YODER TRIO

21

YACHTZEE DUO

28

STEVE GITTO & JOE FAUNCE

AUG

AUG

AUG

Weekly Music Bingo Tuesdays & Trivia Thursdays 6:30 - 8:30PM

At Harbor Pines Golf Club 500 St. Andrews Dr., EHT | 609-927-0006 www.harborpines.com/roost-entertainment/

64

9518 Amherst Ave. Tideline Nicki Sbaffoni 4 – 7:30 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Ventura’s Greenhouse Tiki Bar Steve Moore & Company 7 – 10 p.m. 106 S. Benson Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern The Whitewalls 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay The Company 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Starr 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Broken Strings 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s Born to Run Down the Dream 8:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. Pablo DJ Mellodi 6 – 10 p.m. 101 E. Maryland Ave. The Point Animal House 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Sweetwater Sweetwater Marina Cheers the Band 6 – 10 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Saturday, August 22

Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club Pine Barrens Folk Festival w/ Age of Peace, Ornamental, Mandy Valentine, Dirthog Heaven 3 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave.

Bally’s Beach Bar Billy Walton Band 2 – 6 p.m. Take 2 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Borgata B Bar Adam Holcombe Trio 7:30 – 11 p.m. Hive Five Swan Dive Trio 11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino The Pickles Duo 7 p.m. Sky City Social 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s T Bone Manning 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Bar None Band 5 – 9 p.m. Special K 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget 90s Grunge Party 2 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Yani 5 – 8:30 p.m. Not Leaving Sober 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino The Nutz Duo 9 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Jumper 1 – 5 p.m. Jamison 6 – 10 p.m. DJ Jojo 10 p.m. – close 1400 Ocean Ave.

↘Continued on 67 August 20, 2026


CIRCLE LIQUOR STORE Now Delivering to Margate, Ventnor & Longport!

Cheers To Summer!

Its Rose Season! New Wines Arriving

Check Out Circle's Outstanding Selection of Wine, Beer & Liquor....Helpful Service Too

Open 7 Days a Week 9am-10pm

1 MacArthur Blvd., Somers Point, NJ • 609-927-2921 www.circleliquors.com Delivery Available to Ocean City, Somers Point, Linwood, Margate and Longport. Also Order thru Uber Eats.app


↘Continued from 64 Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy Bobby Williams 6 – 9 p.m. 6629 Black Horse Pike Galloway La Mesa Tequila and Taco Bar Beth Tinnon 6 – 9 p.m. 325 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd. Linwood Fox Den at LCC Plaid Salmon 6 – 10 p.m. 500 Shore Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Vinnie Trav Trio 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Memories LeCompt 8 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Animal House 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Singin’ Frankie G 4 – 8 p.m. Radio Revolution 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Starr 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Jamie & The Quietmen 1 – 4 p.m. Ray McGeehan 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Andy Frankel 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Josie Kelly’s The Ashcats 8 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. Pablo DJ O. 6 – 10 p.m. 101 E. Maryland Ave. The Point Cheers the Band 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Sweetwater Sweetwater Marina Blitz. 6 – 10 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Sunday, August 23 Atlantic City Bally’s Beach Bar The FM Band

2 – 6 p.m. Special K 6 – 10 p.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Dueling Pianos 8 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Maddie Hogan Duo 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. Steel Pier Bar None Duo 7 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget The Exceptions 2:30 – 6 p.m. Dane Anthony 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Doug Kisner’s Yacht Brothers 4 – 7:30 p.m. No Filter 8:30 – 11:30 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Incognito 1 – 5 p.m. Goody Blue Shoes 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy Rick & Laura Duo 5 – 8 p.m. 6629 Black Horse Pike Margate Maynard’s Cafe Brendan Marro Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Tideline Bobby Williams 1 – 4 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Philly Keys 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay The Turtle Heads 4 – 8 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap The Budesa Brothers 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Medicine Man 1 – 4 p.m. Chris Yoder 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway

↘Continued on 68

­

August 20, 2026

67


↘Continued from 67 Josie Kelly’s Traditional Irish Session 1 – 4 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. Pablo Queso Mixto DJ Trio 6 p.m. 101 E. Maryland Ave. The Point The Verdict 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Sweetwater Sweetwater Marina Bullzeye 2 – 6 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Monday, August 24

Atlantic City Landshark Bar & Grill Smokey Starr 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Jexxa Duo 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget Red 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Sidestory. 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk

5

Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Adam & Min Duo 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Somers Point Crab Trap One Hot Mess 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Mike Bracey 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s MPG Trio Reunion ft. Patty Blee, Gabbi & Mike Puggi 6:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Mike Tobin 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Tuesday, August 25

Atlantic City Landshark Bar & Grill Duval Street Duo 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Patty and Bugzy 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. Steel Pier Bar None Duo

7 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Hawkins Cove 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock The Event Horizon 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House E Street Shuffle 6 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Margate Tideline Camille Peruto 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris 7 – 9 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap One Hot Mess 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s John Rodden 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s DJ Ken’s Dance Party 5 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Joe Grasso 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Wednesday, August 26 Atlantic City Landshark Bar & Grill Brian & Mindy 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Michael Stevens 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. Steel Pier One Hot Mess 7 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Triple Rail Turn 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Sean Patrick & The Alibis 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Sidestory 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Margate Tideline Kat Rivers 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Open Mic Night w/ Blue Eagle 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Cosmic Charlie 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Lew London & Bob Mower 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s Jimmy Brogan 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Joey DeNoble 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Events subject to change.

The New Talk of the Town!

“Excellent Food” “Friendly Service” “Great Healthy Options” “We’ll be Back!”

Open for Breakfast & Lunch Deli – Catering - Dine In - Takeout – Delivery Outdoor Seating Center Point Plaza, Northfield Tilton Road & Route 9 (609) 380-4937 Closed Monday

68

August 20, 2026


Back to school, back to vaccines: What parents need to know By Robin Stoloff

A

ugust means squeezing in the last beach days, shopping for school supplies and getting everyone back on a schedule. It is also National Immunization Awareness Month, making this a good time to add one more item to the back-to-school checklist: make sure your child’s vaccinations are up to date. With all the recent discussion about vaccine recommendations at the federal level, parents may understandably be wondering what has changed and what it means for children heading back to school in New Jersey. Here is the most important thing to know: New Jersey’s immunization requirements for school and childcare attendance remain in place and have not changed as a result of recent federal actions. The New Jersey Department of Health reaffirmed that position earlier this year. Visit nj.gov to learn more. For students entering kindergarten or first grade, New Jersey re-

70

quires vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, commonly given as DTaP, along with polio, measles, mumps and rubella, chickenpox and hepatitis B. Older students also have requirements for Tdap and meningococcal vaccination. The exact number of doses can depend on a child’s age and previous vaccination history, so parents should check with their pediatrician or school nurse rather than trying to sort through the schedule themselves. Children who attend childcare or preschool have additional age specific requirements. For example, New Jersey requires an annual flu vaccine by November 30 for children six months and older who are enrolled in childcare or preschool. Why does all of this matter? Schools are perfect environments for infections to spread. Children spend hours together in classrooms,

cafeterias, buses, locker rooms and after school activities. They share supplies, touch the same surfaces and, as every parent knows, are not always perfect at covering coughs or washing their hands. Vaccination provides protection before a child is exposed. Diseases such as measles, whooping cough, meningococcal disease and chickenpox can sometimes be dismissed as illnesses of the past or simply part of childhood. But these infections can lead to serious complications, hospitalization and, in rare cases, death. Vaccination has dramatically reduced the amount of illness caused by many vaccine preventable diseases. It also protects more than the individual child. High vaccination rates help reduce the opportunity for infections to spread to babies who are too young to receive certain vaccines, people with weakened immune systems and others who may be especially vulnerable. There have been some changes at the federal level, which is where some of the confusion comes in. In January 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revised the way it organizes its childhood and adolescent immunization recommendations. Vaccines are now divided into three categories: those recommended for all children, those recommended for certain higher risk groups, and those considered through shared decision making between families and health care providers. Learn more at cdc. gov. The vaccines remaining in the federal category recommended for all children include protection against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, pertussis, tetanus, diphtheria, Haemophilus influenzae type B, pneumococcal disease, HPV and chickenpox.

There have also been specific federal changes involving other vaccines. COVID vaccination is now handled through individual or shared clinical decision making rather than a universal recommendation. Federal guidance surrounding the hepatitis B birth dose has also changed for babies born to mothers who test negative for hepatitis B. Parents and clinicians may now use shared decision making about when to begin the series in those cases. Babies whose mothers test positive or whose hepatitis B status is unknown should still receive the birth dose along with hepatitis B immune globulin. Those federal changes, however, do not eliminate New Jersey’s school vaccination requirements. For example, hepatitis B vaccination continues to be required for New Jersey school attendance, with three doses or an approved two dose series required. That distinction is important. Federal recommendations provide clinical guidance, while states establish vaccination requirements for school attendance. If your child has fallen behind, do not panic or assume the entire series needs to be started again. Catch up schedules allow children to continue where they left off in many circumstances. Your pediatrician can review the record and determine exactly what is needed. Back-to-school season is already busy enough. Checking vaccination records now can prevent a last-minute scramble when school forms are due. More importantly, immunizations are about much more than paperwork. They are one of the best tools we have to protect our children, their classmates and our communities from illnesses we know how to prevent. So along with the backpacks, sneakers and notebooks, schedule that annual checkup, pull out the immunization record and have a conversation with your child’s health care provider. A healthy school year is a great way to start the year. Robin Stoloff is an award-winning health reporter in South Jersey. A former TV reporter, she now hosts Living Well with Robin Stoloff, Sunday mornings at 10 am on Lite 96.9 WFPG.

August 20, 2026


By Jack Connelly

How tides shape your beach day along the Jersey Shore

A

long the Jersey Shore, tides shape nearly every coastal experience. They determine how much beach is available for a towel, when boats can safely move through shallow waterways and where anglers may find feeding fish. Tides also influence where waves break and how currents move through inlets and back bays. Understanding the rhythm of the tides can help boaters avoid an unexpected grounding — and help everyone plan a safer, more enjoyable day at the Shore.

A constantly changing coastline

Changing tides can make or break a day at the beach. Many beachgoers have settled into a comfortable spot only to discover the ocean creeping closer to their towels, chairs and umbrellas. At high tide, the water reaches farther up the sand, leaving less room for beachgoers. Low tide exposes more of the beach and may reveal sandbars, shells and other features that were underwater only hours earlier. Boaters must pay close attention to changing water depths, especially in shallow back bays, tidal creeks and inlets. A route that is passable at high tide may become too shallow as the water recedes. Tide charts are useful, but boaters must also consider local channel markers, shifting shoals, wind and weather conditions. Tides can affect swimmers, although they are only one part of ocean safety. Wind, waves, rip currents, storms and the shape of the shoreline also influence conditions. Beachgoers should always swim near a lifeguard and follow posted warnings.

What tides mean for surfers and anglers

Surfers pay close attention to the tides because water depth can influence where and how waves break. Some surf spots perform best at high tide, while others produce better waves at low or mid-tide. If the tide is too high, waves may lose their shape or break too close to shore. At low tide, waves may break over shallow sandbars. Many surfers favor a rising tide because incoming water can sometimes improve wave conditions. This is commonly described as a “tidal push,” although its effect varies by location and depends on the swell, wind, seafloor and shoreline.

August 20, 2026

Tides also influence fishing. Anglers often prefer periods of moving water because tidal currents carry baitfish and other food sources. Larger fish may follow those food sources or gather near areas where currents concentrate them. Jetties, reefs, bridges, channels and inlets can become productive fishing locations as water flows around them. However, the strongest current does not necessarily occur at the exact time of high or low tide. Tide height and tidal current are related but distinct, and the timing of slack water varies by location.

The moon’s pull

What causes the ocean’s regular rise and fall? The moon is the primary force behind Earth’s tides. Its gravitational pull creates a bulge in the ocean on the side of Earth closest to the moon. A second bulge forms on the opposite side because the moon’s gravity is weaker there than it is at Earth’s center. This difference in gravitational pull stretches the planet and its oceans along the Earth-moon line. As Earth rotates through these bulges, most coastal locations experience two high tides and two low tides during a lunar day, which lasts approximately 24 hours and 50 minutes. The Jersey Shore generally experiences this twice-daily, or semidiurnal, tidal pattern. Successive high tides are usually about 12 hours and 25 minutes apart, and tide times occur roughly 50 minutes later from one day to the next. The actual timing and height of the tides vary from place to place. Landmasses, water depth, the shape of the coastline and the configuration of bays and inlets prevent the ocean from responding to the moon’s pull in a simple, uniform way.

water levels. Onshore winds can pile water against the shoreline and raise water levels. Atmospheric pressure also plays a role. Lower pressure associated with storms can contribute to elevated water levels, while higher pressure can slightly suppress them. During major coastal storms, storm surge can push water well above the predicted astronomical tide.

Spring and neap tides

The sun also contributes to Earth’s tides. Although it is much farther away than the moon, its enormous mass gives it significant gravitational influence. When the sun, moon and Earth align during a new moon or full moon, their combined gravitational forces produce a greater difference between high and low tide. These are known as spring tides, although the name has nothing to do with the season. Spring tides occur throughout the year. When the sun and moon are positioned at approximately right angles to Earth during the moon’s first- and third-quarter phases, their tidal forc-

es partially counteract one another. This produces neap tides, when the difference between high and low tide is smaller. Spring tides typically bring higher high tides and lower low tides. Neap tides generally produce lower high tides and higher low tides.

Check before heading out

Tide predictions are available through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Tides and Currents website. Boaters should check the predictions for the station closest to where they will be traveling, rather than relying on the times listed for a distant oceanfront location. Anglers, surfers and beachgoers can also use tide predictions to plan their day, but they should remember that tides do not tell the whole story. Wind, waves, currents, storms and local geography can all change conditions. The ocean is always moving. A little knowledge of the tides can help boaters avoid getting stranded, guide anglers and surfers toward favorable conditions and keep beach towels safely above the advancing water.

Local geography and weather

The shape of bays, estuaries and inlets can increase or decrease the height and timing of tides. Narrow or shallow waterways may restrict the movement of water, while funnel-shaped bays can amplify tidal changes. That means the tide at an oceanfront beach may differ from conditions in a nearby back bay. It can also take time for the tidal change to move through winding creeks and inland waterways. Weather can create noticeable differences between predicted and observed water levels. Strong offshore winds may push water away from the coast, producing lower-than-expected

71


Crafting stories that make an impact: Danielle Gomes on the power of storytelling Coastal Conversations with Alanna Stoloff

W

TRADE IN, TRADE UP Trade in your Old Clubs Trade up for New Clubs

Follow us on

72

ith a passion for stor y telling and connecting people through meaningful narratives, Danielle Gomes is the author of “Roll Them Bones,” and three other published novels. She has built a career centered on communication, creativity and community. As an author, freelance journalist and brand development specialist, she works with individuals and organizations to help share their stories in authentic and impactful ways. Whether reporting on local issues, highlighting inspiring people or helping businesses strengthen their public presence, Danielle brings a thoughtful and engaging approach to her work. Her diverse experiences offer a unique perspective on the power of storytelling and the important role it plays in building connections and fostering growth. Here are the excerpts from our Coastal Conversation: AS: What first inspired you to pursue a career in journalism and storytelling? DG: I always wanted to tell my dad's story from when he was in law enforcement and helped clean the mob out of the gaming industry. Growing up, I heard him tell his story so many times, and regardless of who he was telling it to, they were always completely engrossed. It didn't matter if they were my friends from college or investment bankers; everyone loved his stories. So when I was in graduate school, I took a screenwriting class. The entire grade for the course was based on one assignment: you had to pitch, then write, a full-length screenplay. When it was my turn to pitch, I told my dad's story. The pitch was supposed to last at least 20 minutes, but I ended up talking for two 45-minute class periods. The class was very into the story. From that assignment, I turned my dad's story into a screenplay, then eventually a book proposal, and ended up getting my first book deal. Through the process of writing that book, I knew that I had found my passion in life. I loved telling stories. AS: As a freelance journalist, what types of stories are you most passionate about covering? DG: I really love writing about people and sharing their life stories. Whether I'm covering a new restaurant that just opened or writing about a homeless

person, I believe that everyone has a unique story. I think it's interesting and powerful to understand what brought them to where they are in their lives — both the successes and the difficulties. AS: How has the media landscape changed since you began your career, and how have you adapted to those changes? DG: The media landscape has changed dramatically since I began writing. I pulled back on some freelance journalism work because it became primarily ad-driven, and that wasn't what I wanted to do. AI is also rapidly changing the media landscape, and I'm not sure which writing careers will still be viable in the future. AS: In addition to journalism, you work in brand development. How do storytelling and branding complement one another? DG: Branding and storytelling go hand in hand. Brand development is essentially helping a company develop and tell its story. I think that for a company or product to be successful, it has to have a story people can relate to. So working in branding is really just an extension of storytelling. Also, as an author, it's essential to build a brand around your writing. AS: What are some of the key elements that help a person, business or organization build a strong and authentic brand? DG: One of the key elements that helps a person, business or organization build a strong and authentic brand is, first and foremost, having a deep understanding of the brand’s mission. Before you can create messaging, visuals, marketing materials, or even decide how you want the brand to sound, you need to know what the brand truly stands for and why it exists. For example, with “Cuticle-B-Gone,” I began the company’s branding by peeling it down to one central statement. I wanted to understand not just what the product did, but what problem it solved and why that mattered. Once you can clearly define the mission, it becomes much easier to build everything else around it. Your messaging becomes more consistent, your voice becomes more authentic, and your audience has a clearer understanding of who you are and what you offer. AS: Can you share a project or story that has been especially meaningful or memorable to you? DG: “Hit Me! Fighting the Las Vegas Mob by the Numbers” is especially meaningful

August 20, 2026


to me because it's my dad's story and the reason I became a writer. AS: What challenges do freelancers face in today’s media and communications environment? DG: I think the biggest challenge to freelancers in today's market is AI. Most publications that I work with, including publishers, have a strict no-AI policy. However, I'm not sure how long that will remain. There have been authors whose careers have been ruined because they were caught using AI and had lied about it. However, there are platforms that also allow it, as long as it's acknowledged. AS: How important is community engagement when it comes to both journalism and brand development? DG: Community engagement is essential. Writing, journalism and brand development are all fundamentally built around connecting with an audience. As human beings, we understand our world through

stories. It’s one of the ways we make sense of our experiences and connect with one another. AS: What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in writing, journalism or communications? DG: Read, write, then read some more. Read the stories that you want to write and then write the stories you like to read. I think the ability to write is like a muscle that can be trained. The more you do it, the more you work out, the better you get at it. AS: Looking ahead, what goals or projects are you most excited about, and what do you hope to accomplish in the future? DG: That's an easy question to answer! I love writing fiction novels. They are definitely what I am most passionate about. I've written and published four novels so far. I have a fifth book that's in editing, and I am currently working on my sixth book. Many thanks to Danielle Gomes for sharing her insights and experiences. Her dedication to storytelling, communication and helping others share their message serves as a reminder of the powerful connections that can be created through words and authentic engagement. Coastal Conversations highlights people in our community who are making a meaningful impact. If you know someone who would be a great fit for a future column, please contact me at ShoreCoastalConversations@ gmail.com. From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.

Your Home Course At The Shore Just Minutes From Ocean City

Golf Club

Finish A Round In Under 2 Hours 30 DAY MEMBERSHIP $200 WALKING UNLIMITED PLAY! If you choose to continue yearly Just $650 additional

Ten Round Passes $250 Yearly membership $850 Scan to Book Online Please Call Ahead Tee Times Required Book online at golfheritagelinks.com

August 20, 2026

73


By Sarah Fertsch

Fresh cookout recipes to savor the summer

4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill and serve with lemon wedges. Pair it with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob or a simple summer salad.

A

s summer winds down, cookouts are also a perfect excuse to take advantage of the season’s abundance. Local farm markets are overflowing with tomatoes, watermelon, herbs and other produce that require very little work to turn into something special. Whether you are hosting a backyard gathering, heading to a family barbecue or simply looking for an excuse to eat dinner outside, these recipes offer a fresh take on classic summer cooking.

Farm Market Bruschetta

Grilled Lemon Salmon

Burgers and hot dogs may get most of the attention at a cookout, but salmon is surprisingly easy to prepare on the grill. Lemon, garlic and fresh herbs keep this version light and summery. Ingredients: ● 4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each ● 2 tablespoons olive oil ● 1 lemon ● 2 cloves garlic, minced

74

1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ● 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill ● Lemon wedges, for serving Directions: 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. 2. Pat the salmon dry and brush ● ●

each fillet with olive oil. Zest half of the lemon over the salmon, then squeeze its juice on top. Rub with garlic and season with salt and pepper. 3. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes, then carefully flip and grill for another 2 to 4 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

When tomatoes are at their peak, there is little reason to complicate them. This easy bruschetta puts juicy farm market tomatoes front and center and makes an ideal appetizer while everyone waits for the grill. Ingredients: ● 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced ● ¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced ● 2 cloves garlic, minced ● 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil ● 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar ● Salt and black pepper, to taste ● 1 baguette ● Olive oil for brushing ● Optional: balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella or crumbled goat cheese Directions: 1. Combine the tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper and allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes so the flavors can mingle.

August 20, 2026


2. Slice the baguette into ½-inch pieces and lightly brush both sides with olive oil. Grill for about one minute per side until lightly toasted. 3. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the warm bread just before serving. For a richer version, add fresh mozzarella or goat cheese, or finish each piece with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Lavender Lemonade

A pitcher of homemade lemonade already feels like summer. Adding lavender gives the classic drink a subtle floral flavor and turns it into something worthy of a garden party — without requiring much extra effort. Ingredients: ● 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, about 5 to 6 lemons ● ¾ cup sugar ● 1 cup water, for the syrup ● 1 tablespoon culinary-grade dried lavender ● 4 cups cold water ● Ice ● Lemon slices for garnish ● Fresh lavender sprigs or mint, optional Directions: 1. Combine 1 cup of water and the sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. 2. Remove from heat, add the dried lavender and allow it to steep

Our

35th

for about 10 minutes. Strain out the lavender and let the syrup cool. 3. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, lavender syrup and 4 cups of cold water. Taste and add additional water if you prefer a less tart drink. 4. Serve over plenty of ice with lemon slices. Make sure to use culinary-grade lavender, rather than flowers intended for decoration or crafting, which may have been treated with chemicals. For a fizzy variation, replace some of the water with sparkling water immediately before serving.

Campfire-Style S'mores Skillet

No cookout is complete without dessert, and this skillet delivers everything people love about s'mores without requiring everyone to balance a marshmallow over a flame. Ingredients: ● 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate ● 3 cups mini marshmallows ● Graham crackers, for dipping ● Optional: peanut butter cups, sliced strawberries or caramel sauce

Hand everyone a stack of graham crackers and dig in! For an extra-indulgent version, tuck peanut butter cups among the chocolate before adding the marshmallows.

A Taste of August

Directions: 1. Preheat the grill to about 350 to 400 degrees. 2. Spread the chocolate evenly across the bottom of a cast-iron skillet. Cover with marshmallows. 3. Place the skillet on the grill and close the lid. Heat for about 5 to 8 minutes, watching closely, until the chocolate has melted and the marshmallows are soft and beginning to brown. 4. Carefully remove the skillet from the grill — the handle will be extremely hot — and place it on a heat-safe surface.

Personalized Service

A summer cookout does not have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. In fact, some of the best warm-weather meals begin with ingredients that are already doing most of the work. Pick up tomatoes and watermelon from a South Jersey farm market, grab a few lemons and fresh herbs, fire up the grill and invite a few people over. Serve lemonade in a glass pitcher, put the bruschetta in the middle of the table and finish the night passing graham crackers around a bubbling skillet of chocolate and marshmallows. Summer may be fleeting, but there is still plenty of time for one more cookout. Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

Seasonal Items

Year

Visit our climate controlled 21,000 square foot facility! New Dealers Welcome! Come spend the day!

Cash & Cards Now Accepted

Jersey Shore's Largest Со-Ор • Open 7 Days а Week • 1Oam-6pm

August 20, 2026

150 S. New York Road (Route 9), Galloway, NJ 609.652.7011 • DaysofOldeAntiques.com

75


In-person casino gambling surges during July in Atlantic City

By Cindy Fertsch

G

amblers returned to Atlantic City’s casino floors in large numbers during the height of the summer season, producing the resort’s best July for in-person gaming since 2012.

The city’s nine casinos won a combined $304.2 million from slot machines and table games in July, according to the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement. The total was 7.1% higher than the $284.1 million recorded in July 2025. Traditional casino gambling also outpaced internet gaming for the first time this year. Online casino platforms generated $276.9 million during July, setting a monthly record despite finishing below the amount won inside Atlantic City’s casinos. Internet gaming revenue increased 12% from the $247.3 million reported during the same month last year. James T. Plousis, chairman of the New Jersey Casino Control Com-

76

mission, said New Jersey surpassed $4 billion in total gaming revenue earlier in the calendar year than ever before. The July figures were reported despite a disruption at Ocean Casino Resort late in the month. A fire during the early morning hours of July 27 led to extensive water damage and a ceiling collapse in the lobby. The casino floor closed temporarily and reopened the following day. No injuries were reported. Brian Tyrrell, director of Stockton University’s Lloyd D. Levenson Institute of Gaming, Hospitality and Tourism, said the shutdown had the potential to affect Ocean’s monthly performance. However, the casino and the Atlantic City market overall still posted strong July results. Sports betting provided another boost to the statewide industry. New Jersey’s casinos, racetracks and online wagering partners re-

ported $97 million in sports wagering revenue, an increase of 29.7% from $74.8 million in July 2025. Tyrrell said wagering associated with the FIFA World Cup may have contributed to the increase. Sportsbook operators also retained a greater share of wagers in July than they did in June, when results were more favorable to bettors. Revenue from all regulated gaming activity — casino floors, internet

gambling and sports wagering — totaled $678.1 million statewide in July. That was an 11.9% increase from $606.2 million one year earlier. Through the end of July, New Jersey’s total gaming revenue reached $4.2 billion. That figure was 6.9% above the $3.92 billion reported during the first seven months of 2025. Strong revenue, however, does not necessarily mean casinos experienced an equal increase in profits. Internet gaming and sports betting proceeds are often shared with outside companies, while casinos continue to contend with rising operating expenses. The July results nevertheless showed growth in each of New Jersey’s three major gaming categories, led by Atlantic City’s strongest July casino-floor performance in 14 years.

August 20, 2026


Try this ‘leave it’ exercise to prevent your dog from going rogue on walks

By Heidi Clayton

W

hen you are training a reactive dog to not be reactive anymore, progress may seem slow at times. However, following a step-by-step process is crucial to turning your dog around. A valuable skill to teach them is a “leave it” command that relates to them exhibiting self-control.

I use the “leave it” command for everything that I don’t want my dogs to do or that I want them to stop doing. One of those things is to ignore another dog if, for some reason, they decide they don’t like the looks of it. Teaching your dog to “leave it” will involve your dog being under their threshold of excitement and being able to take food. What is great about this exercise is that you can pull up a chair or find yourself a park bench where you can sit and be relaxed, instead of being

stressed about your dog going ballistic and pulling on the leash. Bring a treat that is so incredibly tasty that your dog will find it incredibly rewarding, such as chicken or steak bits. The next step is to just sit down and relax, then start rewarding your dog for any automatic check-ins that they offer with both praise and a little taste of the treat. There is no real expectation of “obedience.” That is, if your dog doesn’t sit or lie down, that is OK. Set the bar low, and just focus on your dog offering check-ins or answering to their name. When another dog enters your dog's view, let them see the dog, and if they do not react, praise them with a nice and happy “good leave it!” while giving them a jackpot of treats. Timing is important, so don’t say “leave it” immediately, particularly if your dog is reacting to the other dog. If your dog is reacting, try last week's assignment of trying to feed them in the presence of the other dog until the dog is out of view. If you get nowhere, try giving yourself some distance and moving farther away, so you will still see the dogs but have some space. If your dog reacts and then you start saying “leave it” nonstop despite the fact that your dog is, in fact, not leaving it, you are giving the command the opposite meaning. The

DOG WASTE REMOVAL Local family owned and operated business Flexible Scheduling to fit your busy lifestyle Gate Photos and On The Way Texts Over 100 5 star reviews

DOG WASTE MANAGEMENT PROS (609)356-8999

dogwastemanagementpros.com info@dogwastemanagementpros.com

August 20, 2026

message of “leave it” then becomes “you can leave it whenever you would like.” What we are after is to mark the exact second that they do not react to another dog, no matter what the distance is, and reward it, thus teaching them what “leave it” means. This, like all other exercises, may take time if your dog is highly reactive. Keeping yourself and the dog stationary while doing so reduces your stress and gives you more control over how close a dog will get to you. After a few sessions of this, try shifting from just

saying your dog's name and start asking them to “leave it” when they see a dog. If you are successful, reward them generously. You can transition from being stationary to walking when your dog begins just ignoring others from a distance. Movement always adds stimulation to a dog, so when you are finally walking your reactive dog, be sure to ask for “leave it.” Reward them when they are successful, and do so as often as possible, so they do not regress. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net. Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, reward-based dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https://fouronthefloordogtraining.net

Positive & Reward based training for Dogs of all ages Group Classes, Rescue Reboot & Behavior Modification

We spec ializ e in

Pup py Tr ain

in g!

(609)377-6208 www.fouronthefloordogtraining.net fouronthefloor@gmail.com

77


Is lifestyle creep holding you back? How extra pay seems to go away

By T. Eric Reich

T

hink back to the last real raise you got. Now, be honest with yourself: where did that money go? If you're like most people, you're not entirely sure. The raise felt great for a month or two, and then somehow life just got a little more expensive and the extra money quietly disappeared. That, in a nutshell, is lifestyle creep, and I'd argue it's one of the biggest reasons people who make good money still feel like they're not getting ahead. This week, let's talk about what it is, why it's so sneaky, and how to keep it from holding you back. Lifestyle creep is what happens when your spending rises right alongside your income. You get a raise, and instead of saving it, you upgrade. A nicer car, a bigger house, a few more subscriptions, dinners out that used to be a treat are now just a Tuesday. None of these things are wrong on their own. The problem is that when your expenses climb every time your income does, you end up running in place. You're making more than ever and have no more to show for it than you did years ago.

Here's what makes lifestyle creep so dangerous: It doesn't happen all at once. Nobody wakes up and decides to blow their raise. It happens $50 at a time, one small upgrade after another, each one perfectly reasonable in the moment. That's exactly why it's so easy to miss. A sudden $2,000 expense would get your attention immediately, but $200 a month in slowly rising spending barely registers, even though over a year, it's the same money. The creep hides in the fact that no single decision feels like a mistake. These expenses add up, and next thing you know, it's like your raise disappeared. I see this play out all the time. I remember a client who was thrilled to tell me about a big promotion and the raise that came with it. A year later, we sat down, and his savings hadn't moved an inch. The raise was real, but so were the new car payment, the club membership, and the vacation that got a little nicer. He wasn't being reckless; he genuinely couldn't point to anything extravagant. That's the whole trap. He'd simply let his lifestyle rise to meet his income, dollar for dollar, and his future didn't get one bit closer. The real cost of lifestyle creep isn't

The Premier The WINDOWS, AND SIDING A T L AWindow, NDOORS T I C Premier CRoofing APE WINDOWS, DOORS ANDRoofing SIDING &Window, Siding Company & Siding Company In Atlantic & Cape May County

Our professional team is here to ensure your home gets the look you deserve. With over 30 years experience, your home will be in good hands. Call for a FREE estimate 609-601-2601 today.

In Atlantic & Cape May County acwindowsanddoorsl@gmail.com

D O DO

609-515-3103 609-516-3103

OR

S

O R

•

S

•

N N G G

609-601-2601 609-516-3103 I SI D I SI D

Honest, Up-Front Pricing Honest, &Up-Front Top Quality Work Pricing By Dedicated & Top Quality Crew. Work By Windows Dedicated Crew. Installed

ork Crew. ork Crew..

sionals

By In-House WindowsProfessionals Installed By In-House Professionals

sionals

78

just the money you're not saving today. It's that every increase in your lifestyle raises the bar for what you'll need in retirement. The more you spend to live now, the bigger the nest egg you'll need to maintain that same life later. So creep hits you twice. It steals the money you could have saved, and at the same time, it makes your target number bigger. That's a tough way to reach financial independence. So how do you fight it? The trick isn't to never enjoy your money; it's to decide where the money goes before it has a chance to disappear. My rule of thumb is simple. When you get a raise, give at least half of it a job before you ever see it. Bump up your retirement contributions, add to savings, or knock down debt automatically, so the increase never lands in your checking account and never gets a chance to become a habit. What you don't see, you don't spend. Now, I'm not telling you to live like a monk. You worked hard for that raise, and you should absolutely enjoy some of it. The difference between a reward and lifestyle creep is intention. A reward is a choice you make

on purpose. Creep is what happens when you don't make any choice at all. Decide in advance what you'll do with a raise, and you get the best of both worlds: a little more enjoyment today and real progress toward tomorrow. And if you're not sure how much you can afford to enjoy versus save, that's a great conversation to have with your advisor. Give every raise a purpose before it arrives, reward yourself on your own terms, and you'll finally start to feel like the money you earn is actually moving you forward. 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.

El Jardin Flower Shop

Brighten Your Day! Send to Someone You Love! We Deliver. (609) 727-5560

3912 Ventnor Ave Atlantic City, NJ 08401 www.eljardinflowershop.com August 20, 2026


HERE YESTERDAY HERE TODAY

WILL BE HERE TOMORROW IN BUSINESS SINCE 1970

Beachcomber Coins and Collectibles

6692 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp. Our only location.

WE ARE BUYING (still)

Gold and Silver Jewelry

Gold and Silver Bars and Coins

Sports and Non Sports Cards

Memorabilia

Comic Books

Old Paper Money

Silver Dollars

Coin Collections

Train Collections

Wrist and Pocket Watches Antique and Modern Firearms

? ASK

(APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR FIREARMS)

NOW SELLING (CASH ONLY)

Gold Eagles All Sizes

Silver Eagles 1 Ounce

Silver Rounds 1 Ounce

Silver Bars 1 Ounce - 5 Ounce 10 Ounce

Open Mon. Tues. Thurs. Fri. & Sat. 10am-5pm Closed Sun. & Wed. Appointments Suggested Visit beachcombercoinsinc.com for current buy and sell prices 609-645-1031


By Bruce Klauber

The hidden history of Atlantic City nightclubs

W

hile there’s no doubt that Atlantic City’ 500 Club is the most famous nightspot in the city’s history, there were other clubs in the boardwalk area through the years that, at least for a time, rivaled the 500 in terms of popularity and notoriety. However, clubs like the Dude Ranch, Hialeah Club, and Yacht Club are long forgotten. The 500 Club is anything but. The Dude Ranch, on the Boardwalk at Connecticut Avenue, was the first—and the only—country and western bar and restaurant to operate in the city. Run by entrepreneur Ben Coty, the Ranch was open from the mid-1930s through the 1950s. It had, of course, a flamboyant western motif throughout and a gigantic dance floor. The Ranch booked name attractions from time to time and in 1954, no longer able to fill the Steel Pier, Louis Prima and Keely Smith performed there, shortly before they ventured to Las Vegas and became big stars.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

80

Doc Bagby The Hialeah Club, at the Boardwalk near Michigan Avenue, was also in operation from the mid-1930s through the mid-1960s. During its long history, this club presented entertainment that ranged from drag shows to country music to jazz. In 1962, early rock guitarist Duane Eddy appeared at the club. The following summer, the Hialeah went the jazz route and booked Lionel Hampton, the Four Freshman, Louis Armstrong

Le Bistro and George Shearing. Babette’s was one of the earliest and most spectacular of Atlantic City nightclubs where illegal gambling was rampant. On Pacific Avenue and just across from Boardwalk Hall, the club opened in the early 1920s, and was sold in 1950. It then became the Yacht Club and big names appeared there from time to time, including a stint by Pearl Bailey in the summer of 1951. The building was torn down in 1955. Le Bistro, at Missouri and Pacific Avenues, tried to compete with the neighboring 500 Club, and in the summer of 1963, the club presented singers Jack Jones and Della Reese, as well as pianist Mike Longo’s trio. The club lasted, without name bookings, into the early 1980s. Jazz aficionados of a certain age in this region are likely aware of the iconic Club Harlem, Grace’s Little Belmont, Wonder Gardens, and Club Paradise, but some enterprising folks on Facebook have discovered the existence of several other jazz clubs, previously undocumented in any history of jazz or Atlantic City. The most impressive of these nightspots was called Mack’s Musical Tavern, on 132 New York Avenue. Mack’s, which advertised itself with the catchphrase “where the stars are the brightest,” was in operation for several years in the 1950s. Owners were listed as Lawrence E. McCall and Frank Williams. This was a fullscale operation, in that it had an adjoining liquor store, a popular Sunday afternoon jam session that ran from 5 to 8 pm., and live radio broadcasts direct from the club via WMID. Lawrence McCall was likely the one responsible for bringing in the stellar lineup of jazz stars, which included Dizzy Gillespie, Errol Gar-

ner, Art Tatum, Carmen McRae, and most surprisingly, circa 1953, Oscar Peterson, then on brief hiatus from touring worldwide with the Jazz at the Philharmonic troupe. McCall was well connected in the jazz world, in that he was partners with Bob Bell, who ran the Wonder Gardens, a club that booked jazz almost continuously from 1929 to around 2000. Not a lot is known about Sarge’s After Hour Room, on 117 North South Carolina Avenue, which was open for several years, beginning in the early 1950s. We can only surmise via vintage newspaper ads that Sarge’s was attempting to compete with several area jazz clubs, like Grace’s Little Belmont, that focused almost exclusively on booking jazz organists. Sarge’s biggest booking was organist Doc Bagby, a Philadelphian active in recording and producing rhythm and

August 20, 2026


Oscar Peterson

Pearl Bailey

blues artists. Another little-known spot open in the 1950s was Joe Morgano’s Welcome Bar, at 2203 Atlantic Avenue. If Morgano’s is remembered at all, it’s for the booking of one of the few, female jazz trumpeters, Norma Carson. Those who heard Carson through the years say she was a world-class player who more than held her own next to brass giants like Clark Terry. Harold Abrams was well known in the city. He owned the Paradise Club, which merged with Club Harlem in 1954, was the general manager at the 500 Club for years, and also owned Harold’s Club and a venue called Basin Street. Basin Street, at 5 North Illinois

Avenue, wasn’t in operation long — it was open from the late 1950s through the early 1960s — but Abrams used his connections to bring in national acts like Lambert, Hendricks, and Bavan (Yolande Bavan had replaced Annie Ross in the famed, jazz singing trio) in the summer of 1963. The Midtown Bar at 1719 Pacific Avenue became known nationally as the place where future star Nina Simone had one of her first professional jobs in the summer of 1955. Hired as a pianist at first, she was convinced to sing as well — which she reluctantly did — and the rest is history. Though the New York Times named Atlantic City’s All That Jazz

club in a 1982, “places to go in Atlantic City” feature, noting the club’s allglass interior and attractive photos of the stars of jazz, not much is known about the venue at 2405 Pacific Avenue. In talking to people who performed there, notably bassist Andy Lalasis, the sense is that All That Jazz was an after hours spot where those playing in casino house bands could meet, connect, hang and jam after their regular gigs were over. After its closure, the property briefly opened as something called City Lights, and later on, rather infamously, had a new and long life as the Delilah’s Den Strip club.

Atlantic City has always been a jazz town, though the emphasis these days has shifted from nightclubs to jazz festivals. But I doubt if we’ll see anything approaching the 1950s for jazz, when on any given night, legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Oscar Peterson, Pearl Bailey, Wild Bill Davis and dozens of other icons could be heard performing nightly. 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.

... to Lives Well Lived Now publishing Every week. 12,000 copies to Atlantic County, Ocean City and Upper Twp in Cape May County. E-edition readership 7,000 per week. Online at ShoreLocalNews.com Facebook post on Mondays, with a reach of 65,000

Publishes every Thursday Submissions accepted until Monday 5pm Email to shorelocalads@gmail.com for information

August 20, 2026

81


Weekly Horoscopes The Cosmic Connection By Ursula Duffy

Rising sign horoscopes for Aug. 20 – 26

Aries: Do something to ground your energy every day. Whether it’s your favorite fitness practice, eating foods that grow in the ground, or walking outside barefoot, your body will thank you. Taurus: Presence and experience are important for you. Slow down, and intentionally invite more pleasure and joy into your life. Remember you’re a human being, not a human doing. Gemini: Home is where your heart is. Appreciate more the things that your domicile provides you. It may also be a great time to clean and rearrange your space or focus on a home project. Cancer: The art and practice of communication are wonderful for emoting. Having an overdue conversation, writing, journaling, or affirmations are all excellent outlets for release. Leo: Dedicate some time and attention to the flow of your resources. This includes income, expenditures, time, and clutter that may need clearing. Refinement can build your confidence. Virgo: As the sun shines the spotlight on you, think about how you’re feeling in your body. Are you holding any tension or having any unease? Nourish yourself and aim to feel amazing. Libra: It’s the time and season to go within more than usual. Recharge and restore balance with rest, retreat, and dreaming. Wholeness

Let Progressive Help You!

and wellness in body, mind, and spirit are the goals. Scorpio: Get out and enjoy time with your friends. Activities that deepen your connection while also supporting wellness are ideal. Surround yourself with people who feel good to you. Sagittarius: Consider ways in which you can be more of service in your daily life. It can be as simple as holding a door for a stranger, or as devotional as volunteering for your favorite cause. Capricorn: Think about your favorite way to expand your perspective and broaden your horizons. It could be a new experience, travel, or a class. Whatever you do, make sure fun is on the itinerary. Aquarius: Take a deep dive into the mysterious. Seek to learn more about anything out of the ordinary

SOLVE THE MEDICARE PUZZLE

Long-Term Care Planning Steady Income Solutions

• Fencing • Railing • Decking • Gates • Pergolas • Arbors • Roofing • Siding

• Windows • Trim Boards • Column Wraps • Awnings ! • Sheds & More • Play-Sets • Outdoor Showers • Trash Enclosures

• Annui�es for income or growth • IRA & Pension Discussions Disability Income Protec�on Planning for Re�rement

Reduce taxes and risks in retirement • Tax-smart income strategies • Market vola�lity planning

I can help you put the pieces together.

609-449-8079

www.ProgressiveFenceAndRail.com NJ Loc#: 13VH07478800

82

that piques your interest. The exploration may lead to a new path of self-discovery. Pisces: Spend some quality time with your bestie. Relationships are perfectly imperfect and oftentimes the quality time gets lost in the pace of life. Buddy up and enjoy each other.

Weekly astrology summary:

The cosmos is currently dominated by the fire and air elements. While these elements inspire action and are the spark and spice of life, their fast pace can be overwhelming at times. On Saturday, Aug. 22, we can welcome in some grounding, practical, refining earth energy with the sun’s shift in the zodiac sign Virgo. The flavor of Virgo season this year, especially the beginning, will feel different for two important reasons.

First off, the sun will immediately make a harmonious connection with master Chiron sitting quietly in the early degrees of Taurus. This will add support for making sense of some of the lessons and things surfacing during the current eclipse season. Secondly, for the first time in approximately 18 months, Virgo season will begin without the co-presence of the south node of the moon. The south node is a point of release, and one of Virgo’s qualities is purification. It’s probably felt like this constant pressure to surrender or let go of something that was creating inefficiency in life. That pressure is now gone, and we can all breathe a little more easily and enjoy Virgo season more than we have for a while. Virgo’s not all about organizing, crunching numbers, and having a critical eye. It’s also about celebrating the beauty and bountiful earth, the harvest season here in the northern hemisphere, devotion, and feeling whole and well in our earthly human bodies. Enjoy some nature and the refresh! This week’s horoscopes are focused on the sun’s shift into Virgo; 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 info/tutorial video on my Ursa Alchemy YouTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com. Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, Certified Aromatherapist and founder of Ursa Alchemy. www. ursaalchemy.com or ursaalchemy@ gmail.com.

Live in Touch with Your Soul URSA ALCHEMY is a unique blend of Astrology, Aromatherapy and Cosmic Guidance co-created with the Cosmos, Plants and Spirit. Offering Astrological Aromatherapy, a variety of Astrology readings, Aromatherapy consults and products, the Becoming Chiron podcast, downloadable classes and guided meditations. Ursula is the author of The Cosmic Connection weekly horoscopes and astrology summaries featured here in Shore Local Newsmagazine!

RICHARD T. GERBER LUTCF, CSA, RMC, MMC 327 Central Avenue, Suite 101 Linwood, NJ 08221

(609) 653 - 9101

Save 10% OFF a 60-Minute Astrology Reading with Ursula! Use code: URSALOCAL | www.ursaalchemy.com

August 20, 2026


the area’s largest slection of

outdoor clothing & boots!

$

10

$

5

OFF OFF

any purchase of $50 or more (excludes boots) Not to be combined with any other offer or on sale priced items

any purchase of $25 or more (excludes boots) Not to be combined with any other offer or on sale priced items .

Expires 9-30-26

Expires 9-30-26

Petsmart Center

259

• 609-926-0688

We Shorten Pants for FREE


Shore Local Trivia Test Your Local Knowledge 1. This boardwalk ends at Fredericksburg Avenue: a) Atlantic City Boardwalk b) Ventnor Boardwalk c) Ocean City Boardwalk d) Sea Isle City Boardwalk 2. This closed casino later became Ocean Casino Resort: a) Revel b) Taj Mahal c) Trump Plaza d) Atlantic Club

7. The B.L. England plant on the bay in Beesley’s Point made: a) Concrete b) Boats c) Chocolate d) Electricity

609-710-3408

12-31-26

3. This water tower watches over: a) Somers Point b) Sea Isle City c) Longport d) Margate

8. This 10-foot tree adorned with hub caps can be found on this road: a) White Horse Pike b) Route 9 c) Black Horse Pike d) Pitney Road

All Correct - SURELY LOCAL. You’ve got sand in your toes and pines needles by your feet.

5. This island town has three bridges that cross over the bay to the mainland: a) Margate b) Ventnor c) Ocean City d) Atlantic City

5 correct - SEMI LOCAL. Not born and raised, but not bad.

6. Fish Alley is located in: a) Somers Point b) Margate c) Sea Isle City d) Brigantine

84

Y DVML R F Y R F O Y K Y QK V X F T I RNGOE T KG L P E NR L F H Y L Z T OD I V T SWS AQZ UQN P A U Y S WP I H K BOBO L R B S F Q I UZ I P T TM I R RORMA Z E UNR RNNN L GOXQMQZ B C S G T QNMA T K GC LWV A L QQ R S Y B O A T S T E F E U O E C A P N WW X T C G V C F E D W L O G R P A XWKWY H V L I I E S H X EM F F E R R I SWH E E L E A G H O B P R L K V J M J OE EO I VN J E I UUH F UD P S C R AMB L E R R VU P SMA R MM E R R Y GO R O U N DM B M E P N O E S S P J YWE QZD P F C T B P E T G J L T J ORO L L E R COA S T E R S H E I T I L T AWH I R L T B E X M C B O GDB B I A S NMSW I NG S K J AD P R E J I S I F L LWP QRQO L A RO P Y R S A X P E Q J F GOCHO LWS I E F J V X E DC A ROU S E L R K B C V R

6 or 7 correct - SOLID LOCAL. You know your way around.

3 or 4 correct - NEWBIE. Take another exit. You should get around more. 0 to 2 correct - SHOOBIE – Welcome to South Jersey. The beach is that way.

12-31-26

Boardwalk Rides

Answers on page 86

4. The original Noyes museum was located in: a) Egg Harbor Township b) Northfield c) Galloway Township d) Absecon

12-31-26

Flyingelephants

Rollercoaster

Motorcyclejump

Merrygoround

Ferriswheel

mirrormaze

Bumpercars

tiltawhirl

Froghopper

scrambler

carousel

logflume

swings

Boats

hauntedhouse

pirateship

Droptower

slide

August 20, 2026


SUDOKU Solution on page 86

THEME: FICTIONAL DETECTIVES

OPEN FROM 11AM CLOSED MONDAY

609-645-0500

ACROSS 1. Invitation request, acr. 5. Workout unit 8. Prohibit 11. Affirmative response 12. Type of lure, pl. 13. Small silvery fish 15. Seed covering 16. Gumbo vegetable 17. Like Siberian winters 18. *"Murder, She Wrote" amateur sleuth 20. Descartes's "therefore" 21. *Apparition investigated in a Scooby-Doo cartoon 22. ____ Air in L.A. 23. *Arthur Conan Doyle's detective 26. Deposit, in Paris 30. "Wheel of Fortune" purchase (2 words) 31. Always, in Rome 34. "She ____ blue velvet..." 35. From then on 37. Am is to I as ____ is to we 38. Prison-related 39. International Civil Aviation Organization 40. Window-shop 42. "He ____ and drank the precious words..." 43. Announce 45. *Agatha Christie's Hercule 47. Ryder Cup participant 48. Fern leaf 50. Charitable contribution 52. *"The Pink Panther" Inspector 55. Diver's breathing device 56. Vietnam neighbor 57. Bald eagle's home 59. Bother 60. Highland tongue 61. Get checkmated 62. Cribbage piece 63. Like certain nurse 64. Ginger cookie

DOWN 1. Shag rug 2. Lord's worker 3. Colorado skiing destination 4. Mucus in lungs 5. Adherents of Sikhism 6. Wading bird 7. Russia's 1917 abdicator 8. Titanic's inanimate foe 9. "The Sun is ____ a Star" 10. Unknown power 12. Humorous 13. Blind followers 14. *Raymond Chandler's hardboiled detective 19. Not those 22. Quilting gathering 23. Orthodox Judaism adherent 24. Chilled (2 words) 25. Cancer-treating machine, acr. 26. *Carolyn Keene's amateur sleuth 27. Navigational aid 28. Inspiration for poets and musicians 29. Get a new tenant 32. Stud's companion 33. Trained instructor at a country club 36. *Peter Falk's Lieutenant 38. Lowly workers 40. Lingerie item 41. *Nick to Nora in The Thin Man series 44. Analyze 46. Paragons 48. Bell-bottoms bottom 49. Fowl perch 50. Skin problem 51. Miner's black one 52. Ball of yarn 53. Same as eon 54. Major one in the sky 55. Tree juice 58. Casual affirmative

See Solution on Page 86

August 20, 2026

85


Atlantic City’s post-Labor Day promotion gave rise to Miss America

Contributed by Lynn Wood

M

ore than a century ago, Atlantic City business leaders searching for a way to extend the summer tourism season created an event that would become a national institution.

Sixteen-year-old Margaret Gorman of Washington, D.C., emerged as the top contestant during the Atlantic City Pageant, a two-day festival held Sept. 7 and 8, 1921. The competition later evolved into the Miss America pageant, with Gorman recognized as its first winner. The event grew out of the Fall Frolic, a promotion organized by Atlantic City businesses in 1920 to encourage visitors to remain at the resort beyond Labor Day. Although the first celebration achieved modest success, organizers expanded it the following year with parades, entertainment and a competition featuring young women representing several East Coast cities. Newspapers helped select the contestants through local popularity contests. Gorman, then a student at Western High

School, entered after her photograph was submitted to The Washington Herald. After being chosen to represent Washington, she received an expenses-paid trip to Atlantic City. The visiting contestants became known as the “Inter-City Beauties.” They appeared in a Boardwalk parade and participated in the Inter-City Beauty Contest on Sept. 7. The competition was judged partly by a panel and partly by audience response. Gorman, whose appearance was frequently compared with that of silent film star Mary Pickford, won the amateur division and received the Watkins Trophy. The following day, she joined contestants in the Bather’s Revue, which brought to-

Miss America title was not formally used for her until she returned to Atlantic City for the 1922 competition. A new representative had already been selected as Miss Washington, prompting organizers to introduce Gorman under the title “Miss America.” The festival featured elaborate floats, decorated rolling chairs and a theatrical appearance by Hudson Maxim, an inventor who portrayed King Neptune. Contestants were judged at Keith’s Theatre on Garden Pier, where political leaders, artists and entertainers served on the judging panel. The event accomplished its original purpose by drawing attention and visitors Atlantic City Mayor Edward L. Bader presents a ceremonial key to the city to Atlantic City after to Margaret Gorman, the winner of the 1921 competition that became the the traditional close of Miss America pageant. the summer season. It also established gether more than 200 women in a tradition that became closely several categories. connected with the resort for Gorman again earned the top generations. honor, receiving the Golden MerGorman died in 1995 at age 90. maid trophy and recognition as Her victory remains a defining mo“the most beautiful bathing girl ment in Atlantic City history and in America.” Although she is now the beginning of one of the nation’s known as Miss America 1921, the most recognizable competitions.

Answers to page 84 Trivia Puzzle: 1. B) Ventnor Boardwalk 2. A) Revel 3. C) Longport 4. C) Galloway Township

5. D) Atlantic City 6. C) Sea Isle City 7. D) Electricity 8. C) Black Horse Pike

Solutions to page 85 puzzles. Check yourself!

86

August 20, 2026


1450 Franklin Blvd Linwood $1,575,000

1033 Somers Point Road

33 East Rosedale Ave

710 Burghley Ave

Egg Harbor Township $999,900

Northfield $525,000

Ventnor $715,000

Exceptional Linwood estate on prestigious Franklin Boulevard featuring 5,498 square feet of beautifully renovated living space on a manicured .53-acre lot. Timeless elegance, luxury amenities, and outstanding craftsmanship combine to create a truly remarkable home. 5 Bedroom 5 Bath

Enjoy exceptional riverfront living with breathtaking water and golf course views, private decks, and direct access to the river from permitted docks. This beautifully renovated home features stylish updates, multiple outdoor living spaces, and incredible potential for future expansion. 2 bedrooms 2.5 baths

Rare opportunity to own in highly sought-after Ventnor Heights! This spacious home features a flexible layout, an expanded kitchen, and a private backyard with an in-ground pool, just minutes from the beach, boardwalk, dining, and shopping. 3 bedrooms 1.5 baths

Art Barrera 609-287-0923

Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384

Beautifully renovated and move-in ready, this Northfield ranch offers stylish updates, a modern kitchen, restored hardwood floors, and a spacious fenced backyard. A standout detached studio with heat and air conditioning adds incredible versatility as a home office, gym, studio, or creative retreat. 3 Bedrooms 1.5 baths

516 Pennsylvania Ave

306 Mallard Court

126 Red Bank Drive

Somers Point $435,000

Pleasantville $379,500

Mays Landing $359,000

310 Harbor Cove #3310

Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384

Full of charm and character, this beautifully updated home sits on an oversized corner lot offering exceptional outdoor space, original details, and modern touches. Enjoy a spacious layout, updated kitchen, and endless possibilities for entertaining, gardening, or creating your own private retreat. 2 bedrooms 1 bath

Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384

1205 Zion Road Northfield $349,000

Beautifully maintained Cape Cod nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac, featuring an updated custom kitchen with granite countertops and a warm, inviting layout. The backyard is an entertainer’s dream with a covered paver patio, built-in bar, fire pit, and space designed for year-round enjoyment. 3 bedrooms 2 baths

Art Barrera 609-287-0923

Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384

Somers Point $349,000

Beautifully maintained end-unit townhome in sought-after Victoria Crossing, offering the community's largest floor plan, stylish updates, and a private deck surrounded by nature. Enjoy resort-style amenities, including a pool, clubhouse, and playground, just minutes from shopping, dining, golf, and the Expressway. 3 bedrooms 1.5 baths

Experience carefree coastal living at Harbor Cove in Somers Point, where this charming marina-front condo offers stylish updates, a private balcony, and resort-style amenities just steps from the bay, beaches, dining, and entertainment. 1 bedroom 1 bath

550 Central Ave #I-16

10 Toni Lynn Court

Dominika Narewska 609-271-8032

18 Club Road Galloway $280,000

Linwood $269,500

Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384

Hammonton $269,000

Step back in time with this charming circa-1830 farmhouse offering timeless character, over 2,100 square feet of living space, and endless potential to make it your own. Ideally located in the heart of Northfield near the bike path, this historic gem blends vintage charm with everyday comfort. 3 bedrooms 1.5 baths

Move-in ready and beautifully renovated, this peaceful Villas home features designer finishes, a stunning granite kitchen, and the privacy of having no units above or below. Multiple patios and deck areas create exceptional indoor-outdoor living, perfect for relaxing and entertaining. 2 bedrooms 2 baths

Enjoy easy 55+ living in the Village at Linwood with this bright second-floor end unit featuring cathedral ceilings, updated finishes, and private balconies. Residents enjoy a pool, clubhouse, tennis, pickleball, walking paths, and a convenient location near shopping, dining, and the Shore. 2 bedrooms 2 baths

Charming two-story townhome offering comfortable living with modern finishes, a private backyard, balcony off the primary bedroom, and convenient amenities including in-unit laundry and assigned parking. Ideally located close to shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. 2 bedrooms 1.5 baths

3 Locust Court

4906 Willow Oak

98 Iroquois Drive

3801 Boardwalk Ave

Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384

Winslow Township $225,000

This desirable end-unit townhouse in Lehigh Manor Estates offers comfortable living with a private fencedyard and a convenient location close to everyday amenities. 3 bedroom 1 bath

Michele Zelig 609-432-3589

Deb Glenn 609-287-7648 / Christine Davis 609-402-1328

Mays Landing $224,900

Beautifully maintained townhome in the desirable Village at Harding Run II, offering spacious living, natural light, and low-maintenance living with community amenities including a clubhouse, tennis courts, and playground. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, schools, and the Atlantic City Expressway. 2 bedrooms 1.5 baths

Matthew Boyd 609-442-4957

Art Barrera 609-287-0923

Galloway $219,900

Beautifully updated second-floor condo in Society Hill II featuring luxury vinyl flooring, modernized kitchen and baths, fresh paint, and new bedroom windows. Enjoy a spacious private balcony and community pool in this conveniently located, low-maintenance home. 2 bedrooms 2 baths

Alex Terranova 973-615-5061

Marlene Barrera

Nicholas P. Brennan

609-287-4032

609-204-2287

Sales Associate

Broker Associate

609 -204 -2287

Michele Zelig 609-432-3589

Atlantic City $165,000

Oceanfront living awaits! This second-floor corner unit offers the perfect opportunity to own at the beach and boardwalk with community amenities including a pool, off-street parking, bike storage, and more. 1 bedroom 1 bath

Michele Zelig 609-432-3589

Sales Associate

Greg Neder

Michael Cifelli

Sales Associate

Sales Associate

609-805-3465

609- 432-6399

Joe LaMania

Sales Associate

702-410-4173

Thomas Venafro Jr. Sales Associate

609-204-8257

Camille Decaro

Sales Associate

609-626-4581

Nikki Fox

Sales Associate

609 -204 -2287

Sharon Eilenberg

Admin Assistant


BAYVIEW JET SKI WAVERUNNER RENTALS

Serving Ocean City for 39 Years!

OCEAN CITY'S ORIGINAL SINCE 1987! WALK UPS' WELCOME. RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED.

BOOK NOW

BAYVIEW WATERSPORTS MARINA 312-316 BAY AVE. OCEAN CITY

www.bayviewmarina.com

609-399-5100 bayviewjetskirentals Bayview Jet Ski Wave Runner Rentals

$

20 OFF

OPEN DAILY •

promo code FUN20 Limited Time Offer! www.BAYVIEWJETSKI.COM 609-399-5100

FULL AMENITIES, RESTROOMS & CHANGING ROOMS

ATM

CASH


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
SHORE LOCAL | Oceancity | August 20, 2026 by Mike Kurov - Issuu