SHORE LOCAL | Oceancity | August 27, 2026 by Mike Kurov

Free August 27, 2026

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

End of Summer Happenings Where Have All the Weakfish Gone? Looking Back to Lake Lenape's Singing Lighthouse Community Bands Together For Back-To-School Drive Tornado Touchdown Confirmed

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

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 8/27 through 8/31

SEEDLESS

WATERMELON CALIFORNIA

ROMAINE HEARTS

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

$2.50

$3.99

YUKON GOLD

5 LBS FOR

$2.00

$3.00

AMERICAN CHEESE ................................................................................................ $ 5 . 2 9 L B IMPORTED HAM ...................................................................................................... $ 7 . 9 9 L B GOURMET CHICKEN BREAST ............................................................................ $ 7 . 9 9 L B BLACK PEPPER TURKEY BREAST ................................................................... $11.49LB GERMAN BOLOGNA ............................................................................................... $ 5 . 9 9 L B JALEPENO & CAYENNE CHEDDAR CHEESE................................................ $ 7 . 4 9 L B EXTRA LEAN ROAST BEEF................................................................................. $12.49LB HONEY AND MAPLE HAM ................................................................................. $ 7 . 9 9 L B HONEY BARBQUE CHICKEN BREAST ............................................................ $ 7 . 9 9 L B STORED SLICED PROVOLONE CHEESE .......................................................... $ 5 . 6 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

No time to bake?

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

3 LB. PKG FOR

2 LBS. FOR

POTATOES

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

$3.00

RED OR GREEN

PEPPERS

Relax and enjoy homemade ice cream inside our cozy parlor!

$2.99

2 LBS. FOR

GRAPES

Eat In

LG. 6 CT. PKG. FOR

SWEET CALIFORNIA

SEEDLESS WHITE

ENTERTAINING? WE CAN HELP!

$2.50

3 LBS. FOR

PLUMS

Serving Ocean City for Over 50 Years

EACH

PLUM

TOMATOES

Ice Cream Parlor

Have a large group on a Rainy Day?

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

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

www.alamodeicecreamparlor.com www.a alamo

August 27, 2026

New beginnings and big feelings Letter from the editor

hen my children were growing up, the end of summer and start of a new school year brought a noticeable change. With three kids close in age, our house was already full of activity, noise and emotion. Back-to-school season, with all its changes, turned up that volume. When summer’s relaxed rhythm gave way to alarm clocks, bus schedules, packed lunches, homework and the rush to get everyone out the door, emotions ran high in our house. There were new teachers, unfamiliar classrooms and changing friendships. When behaviors inevitably arose, I focused on what I could see: the argument that needed to end, the raised voice that needed to come down or the child who needed to get ready. There was rarely time to consider what might be driving the behavior. Looking back, there are moments I wish I could revisit. I would listen more closely, pause before responding and try harder to understand the feeling beneath the reaction. But parenting does not offer do-overs. We make decisions in real time, often while overwhelmed ourselves. Most

of us do the best we can in the situation. “Emotional regulation” was not a term I heard often when my children were young, but I wish it had been. It is essentially emotional intelligence — the ability to recognize a feeling without allowing it to take control. It does not mean ignoring anger, sadness, anxiety or frustration. Rather it's creating space between the emotion and your response. It often helps you make a better choice. That sounds simple, but it can be difficult for children and adults alike. Yet, it is critical for maintaining relationships, both personally and professionally. Over the years, I learned that behavior was only part of the story. Anger could be covering anxiety. Defiance could grow from frustration. A meltdown might have less to do with what had just happened and more to do with exhaustion, disappointment or a change that felt overwhelming. Every strong reaction comes from a raw feeling. Those reactions usually

Issue 402

make things worse. Feelings, like clouds, are always moving and changing. Some are light and pass quickly. Others arrive dark, heavy and feel as though they will remain forever. But then, the clouds shift, change shape and eventually move on. Feelings do the same. Not every emotion needs a response. Sometimes it simply needs to be noticed and given room to pass. Mindfulness has helped me pause, look beyond the words and consider what may actually be happening.

I still do not get it right every time. None of us do. Patience runs short, emotions take over and words sometimes come out differently than intended. We all remain works in progress, regardless of our age. As another school year begins, students, parents and teachers are carrying far more than backpacks and lesson plans. They are carr ying excitement, uncertainty, hope, pressure and expectations. Soon, the routines will settle, unfamiliar faces will become friends and confusing hallways will feel familiar. The emotions surrounding this new beginning may feel large at first, but like clouds crossing the sky, they will shift, soften and move along. And in their place, something new will begin. Wishing all the students, teachers, and families a great start to this new school year!

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 Bob Fertsch

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

649

Per window

NO TAXES

Charged

week

August 27, 2026

GO FOR THE

FUN TIMES . AND THE TAN LINES.

GO FOR THE PROMOTIONS.

SPIN TO

Free Tickets.

WIN

Free T-Shirt.

NEW MEMBERS

Spin & Win up to $250 Free Play

NOW - OCTOBER 31

AUDI Q5 QUATTRO SWEEPSTAKES

LABOR DAY WEEKEND

$300,000 SWEEPSTAKES OVE R 5 5 0 WI N N E R S !

SEPTEMBER 1 NOVEMBER 27

SEPTEMBER 4-6

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN SEPTEMBER & SEPTEMBER 27

GO FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT.

DARK STAR ORCHESTRA SEPTEMBER 12

ASHANTI AND TREY SONGZ OCTOBER 2

THE REVIVALISTS OCTOBER 10

GO FOR THE

VIEWS. BOOK NOW

DAUGHTRY OCTOBER 17

HAPPY HOUR TUESDAY - FRIDAY & SUNDAY Indulge in bar bites, cocktail specials & more!

G O TO O C E A N | G O FO R T H E WI N 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.

WINNER | OVERALL CASINO

STEVE MARTIN & MARTIN SHORT NOVEMBER 7

Tornado confirmed in Estell Manor following South Jersey warnings by Cindy Christy Fertsch

he National Weather Service has confirmed that a tornado touched down in Estell Manor during a series of severe storms that moved across South Jersey on Thursday, Aug. 20. The brief tornado formed at approximately 4:41 p.m. in an inaccessible wooded or marshy area about 4 miles southeast of Estell Manor. It remained on the ground for approximately 30 seconds or less. Video recorded along the Great Egg Harbor River in the English Creek section of Egg Harbor Township captured the tornado across the river. The National Weather Service reviewed the footage, radar data and information from first responders before confirming the touchdown Saturday. No injuries were reported, and investigators found no damage that could be definitively attributed to the tornado. The tornado was classified as EF-U, meaning its strength was unknown. Because the area was

Bundle & Save Installation Discount

inaccessible and no related damage could be examined, meteorologists were unable to estimate the tornado’s wind speed, path length or width. The confirmation came after emergency alerts sounded on cellphones throughout parts of Atlantic County, warning residents to seek shelter. Although many people did not see a funnel cloud or other visible evidence of a tornado, the warnings were issued after dangerous rotation was detected in the region. Severe weather continued later that evening in Cape May County. At approximately 7:07 p.m., radar confirmed a waterspout just offshore near North Cape May. The waterspout was moving east at 45 mph and appeared to be heading toward land, prompting another tornado warning for southwestern Cape May County. The warning included Cape May, North Wildwood, Wildwood Crest,

Avalon, Stone Harbor and several surrounding communities. No subsequent reports indicated that the waterspout moved ashore or caused damage. A waterspout is a rotating column of air over water. If it reaches land, it is classified as a tornado. The confirmed tornado in Estell Manor and the waterspout near the Cape May County shoreline demonstrated why emergency weather

alerts should be taken seriously, even when dangerous conditions are not immediately visible. A tornado watch means atmospheric conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop and residents should remain alert. A tornado warning is more urgent. It means a tornado has been spotted or radar has detected rotation capable of producing one. When a tornado warning is issued, people should move to a basement when one is available. Otherwise, they should shelter in a small interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. Bathrooms, closets and interior hallways may offer additional protection. Residents should not wait to see a tornado before seeking shelter. Tornadoes can be obscured by rain, clouds, trees or darkness, leaving little time to react once they become visible.

ing Spaces, 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 6

609-813-2323

Smartchoicekbf.com August 27, 2026

Somers Point remembers the sacrifice of Richard Somers By Seth Grossman

uring the night of Sept. 4, 1804, a small merchant ship sailed alone into the harbor of Tripoli, in

North Africa. It carried no cargo. It was instead loaded with bombs and explosives. Its captain was 26- year-old Richard Somers, from Somers Point, New Jersey. He and all 12 members of his crew knew they had little chance of coming back alive. Yet they had all volunteered for this mission. For three years, they had been at war with fanatic sea fighters who were commonly called “Barbary Pirates.” However, those sea fighters were not pirates. Pirates were criminals who were immediately tried and executed if captured. These sea fighters were “privateers” or “corsairs.” They had been hired by nations that were legally at war with the United States. If captured, they were to be treated as prisoners of war. Their war had started long before the United States existed. It began in the year 708 when Arabs conquered the Roman cities of Tangier, Algiers, Tunis and Tripoli in North Africa. They then became known as the “Barbary” kingdoms. They later became allies of the Ot-

The Sept. 4 ceremony to remember Richard Somers and the crew of his ship will be held at 10 a.m. by the statue and mural dedicated to them by the library at 801 Shore Road. toman Turks who were also at war with Christian Europe. For 1,000 years, the Barbary kingdoms hired raiders to attack European ships and coastal towns as far away as Iceland. They captured more than 1 million Europeans and sold them as slaves in North Africa. In 1560, Pope Pius V formed a “Holy

League” of many nations to fight back. By the 1700s, most European nations, even the British Empire, stopped fighting. They decided it was cheaper to instead pay bribes, or “tribute” to the Barbary kingdoms. American ships were protected by that tribute when we were part of the

OP YEAR EN -RO Daily UND July & in Augu st

$1 OFF Admission to Climb Coupon good for up to 4

August 27, 2026

British Empire. However, they were attacked when we won our independence in 1783. We then paid our own tribute to keep our people safe. However, the more we paid, the more the Barbary kingdoms demanded. They knew we had no choice. Our nation loved peace so much that we had no navy to protect our ships. By 1798, Americans had enough. We said “ Millions for defense, not one cent for tribute.” We built a navy. Richard Somers, of Somers Point, was one of the first to join. In 1801, Thomas Jefferson sent our navy to North Africa to fight the Barbary

light fuses, escape and kingdoms. have their ship explode During the first two near the enemy fleet that years, the American fleet was led by naïve and was anchored there. cautious commanders. Their plan failed. The They were repeatedly ship exploded premaplayed and outwitted by turely. Somers and his a deceptive enemy. That entire crew were killed quickly changed when instantly. Edward Preble was made However, their saccommodore in December rifice inspired the rest of 1803. During the next of the fleet to continue 10 months, the Amerithe fight. One year later, American Marines made cans aggressively hunted, attacked and captured a daring raid that brought Barbary ships and blockthem to the “shores of Tripoli.” The actions of aded their ports. All but those brave Americans one of the Barbary kingwon respect and peace doms quickly made peace for Americans in the Midwith America. However, one of them, dle East for the next 160 Tripoli, did not. It had years. its warships retreat to Every Sept. 4, Somers the safety of its harbor. Point holds a ceremony Its ruler believed that to remember Richard Americans would soon Somers and the crew get tired of paying for an of his ship Intrepid. This expensive foreign war year it will be held at 10 a.m. by the statue and 5,000 miles away. mural dedicated to them Richard Somers and most of his fellow sailors Every Sept. 4, Somers Point holds a ceremony to remember Richard by the library at 801 Shore Road. The public agreed. They therefore Somers and the crew of his ship Intrepid. agreed to take an enoris invited and admission is mous gamble to win the war in a ship with explosives. They then sailed free. There will then be a $20 breaksingle stroke. Somers and twelve it into Tripoli harbor, pretending to fast at 11 a.m. at Sal’s Coal Fired Pizza, volunteers packed a captured Arab be a friendly vessel. They planned to 501 New Road in Somers Point.

EXCLUDES ART & SQUISHIES

BRING YOUR BAGS! August 27, 2026

Everyone’s Children set to get back-to-school backpacks How South Jersey shows up for local kids

By Delaney Crawford

he words community and South Jersey tend to go hand in hand. Between the locals, all the small businesses and nonprofits in our area, there are endless amounts of ways to get involved, help others and connect with people. When given an opportunity or an event to help others, the people and places that make up our South Jersey community really pull through. One instance of the community showing up for each other is the Everyone’s Children yearly back-toschool backpack drive. Everyone’s Children is a local nonprofit organization that helps children and families in our community. They have three initiatives a year: making spring baskets, holiday adopt-a-child, and their back-to-school backpack drive. This year, the back-to-school backpack drive is set to be the largest backpack drive organizer Christine

Sands-Bennett has done in the last 20-plus years of running Everyone’s Children. A large part of that is due to a new partnership with Motivated Mommies and Curve Orthodontics, as well as Melissa McAlarnen from Shore to Please Designs/Shore Connect for involving more than 60 businesses in the backpack drive and raising money. Between these organizations and the locals who run them, in just a few days’ time, they were able to raise enough money to donate more than 280 filled backpacks for our local community. After running Everyone’s Children for so long, Sands-Bennett has a list of people in our community who she knows need help. She knows which children could use the backpacks and school supplies and will distribute them to the members of our community who need them most.

This year, these donated backpacks will also be stuffed with the school supplies the students will need. Morgan Orlowski, founder of Motivated Mommies, shared that all of their kids and friends will be coming to help load the bags. She added that not only will this be a huge blessing for the kids receiving the bags, but also for the kids who are coming to help, so they can see what it’s like to help and do things for members of our community. “This initiative means that our community shows up,” Orlowski said. It really took all of Christine’s hard work, for Motivated Mommies and Curve to get involved and those 60 other businesses to help. It was like a ripple effect of everyone wanting to get involved and help, and as more joined, more reached out.” The goal of this initiative is simple: to help ease the burden of families within our community. Whether that be your neighbor, friend or a com-

plete stranger, you never truly know what anyone is going through, but in our community, the goal is to help one another regardless. “Our community definitely has each other’s backs,” Orlowski said. With this drive, we’re able to see that the greatest thing is [how] the community [has eachother's] backs. As our community continues to grow, people’s generosity is growing, too.” And now, that community has one more opportunity to show up. On Aug. 27, volunteers are invited to join Everyone’s Children, Motivated Mommies and the many people who helped make this drive possible at the Linwood Library Resource Room from 4-6 p.m. Whether you come with your kids, a friend, a coworker or on your own, every set of hands can make a difference. Come help fill these backpacks, get them ready to go and be a part of the ripple effect that made this year’s drive possible. After all, this is what South Jersey does best: showing up for one another. 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.

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

Kelli A. Prinz, Esquire

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

August 27, 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

Events and Happenings Multi-day Events

Ventnor Food Truck Festival

▶ Friday, August 28 & Saturday, August 29, 7:30 p.m.

Ski Beach, Ventnor Join Ventnor City Special Events for their inaugural Food Truck Festival. Come hungry and enjoy three full days of delicious food and fun with over fifteen of the area’s best and most renowned food trucks. The event will be held Friday, Sept. 4 and Saturday, Sept. 5 from 3 – 9 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 6 from 3 – 6 p.m. Yoga in the Park

▶ Friday, September 4 – Sunday, September 6

OCTC Presents High School Musical Jr.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk OCTC’s Middle School Jr. Company present Disney’s High School Musical Jr. Fans will hear all the beloved songs and classics from the Disney Channel original movie. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at www.oceancitytheatrecompany. com.

▶ Monday – Thursday, 5:30 p.m.

M&S PRODUCE & DELI

OUTLET 3 3 SEEDLESS

99¢

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

Dietz & Watson $

CHICKEN

7.49 CRACKED PEPPERMILL Boar’s Head

BREAST

11.49

Dietz & Watson $ LONDON BROILED

ROAST BEEF LB $

JUMBO

CARROTS

2.00 FRESH THIS WEEK!

FOR 3LB

GREEN

PEPPERS

3.00 SALE PRICES

FOR 2LB

YELLOW

ONIONS

2.00

FOR 3LB

BI-COLOR $

CORN

TURKEY $ 13.99lb

VIRGINIA

HAM $ 5.99lb SEEDLESS

WATERMELON

$400 EACH

8/27/26 – 9/3/26 BLACK NEW LOWER PRICES! GRAPES

4.00

FOR 2LB

$ 4.99 Romaine $3.00 4.99 MOZZARELLA CHEESE POUND LETTUCE

DOZEN

TROPICAL PLANTS

Thursday, August 27

Margate Community Farmers Market

▶ 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. Steve & Cookie’s, Amherst & Monroe Avenues The Margate Community Farmers Market features over 20 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 Sept. 3. Absecon Galloway Rotary Club Meetings

▶ 6 p.m. Gourmet Italian Restaurant, 324 South Pitney Road, Galloway The members of the Absecon Galloway Rotary Club invite the public to be their guest at their upcoming meeting. Networking will start at 5:30 p.m. followed by the meeting at 6 p.m. Learn more about Rotary, how they serve our local community, and meet local community members. For club information, go to www.facebook. com/AbseconGallowayRotar y or email Rose McCarthy, Club President, at bluerose46@aol.com. Thrilling Thursday Movies on the Beach

▶ 6:30 – 9 p.m. Huntington Avenue Beach, Margate Enjoy a free movie on the beach

to end the day between the bulkhead and dunes. Grab your beach chairs and blankets and watch ‘Despicable Me 4’ on-screen, along with pre-movie activities, and food available for purchase. Mummers Night

▶ 7 – 9 p.m. Ocean City Boardwalk, Sixth to 14th Streets Strut over to the boardwalk for the final Mummers Night of the season, featuring the Pennsport and Fralinger String Bands. Summer Lecture Series

▶ 7 p.m. Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Avenue This week, local historian John Loeper recollects the value of Small Boats in the American Revolution. The presentation will be held in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. Admission is free and seating is first come, first served.

Friday, August 28

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

▶ 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

FOR 2 HEADS

$ 3.99 Puglisi EXTRA LARGE 3.00

Block & Barrel $

FRUIT $4.99 AMERICAN SALAD POUND CHEESE

Smithfield

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.

POUND

EGGS

FOR 2 DOZEN

HAM AND CHEESE 9" HOAGIES

DICED FRUITS $ 5.99 AVAILABLE

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 27, 2026

foods, baked goods, beverages, and beautiful handmade wares. Visit vcfm. org for more information. Smithville Car Cruise

▶ 5 – 8 p.m. Historic Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Road Cruise over to Smithville and hang out with fellow car enthusiasts. Drive to the side parking lot of the Village Green near the red-covered bridge and look for the orange cones set up. Move a cone and park your ride. Visit www.historicsmithville.com for more information. Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point

▶ 7 p.m. William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue Pack your beach chairs and blankets and head to the beach in Somers Point for an evening of rock featuring Deep Blue Something, the band behind the chart-topping hit song ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s, along with a Slow Hands Tribute to Eric Clapton. The concert is hosted by Tony Mart Presents.

Saturday, August 29

Brigantine Farmers Market

▶ 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Brigantine Community School, Sheridan Boulevard Stop by the Brigantine Farmers Market 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

locally-owned businesses. Family Drum Circle

▶ 3 p.m. Ventnor Library, 6500 Atlantic Avenue Who says libraries need to be quiet? Join Steven Beste as he shares the secrets of drum circles. Bring your own drum or use one of their own. There will also be tambourines and other small musical instruments to play. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call 609-823-4614. Ventnor Summer Beach Jam

▶ 6:30 p.m. Newport Avenue Beach The Ventnor Summer Beach Jam concert series concludes its 2026 season this Saturday. Kick off your shoes and dance to the sounds of Plaid Salmon. 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. Movie on the Beach in Longport

▶ 7 p.m. 35th Avenue Beach Longport Library invites the public to their movie on the beach this Saturday. Bring your beach chairs and towels and enjoy a screening of the Steven Spielberg hit film ‘Disclosure Day’. Please call 609-487-7403 for more information.

Sunday, August 30

Egg Harbor Township Community Farmers Market

▶ 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 1 Swift Drive EHT’s farmers market features 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. 319 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway Shop for fresh produce, homemade goods, fresh baked treats, and more every Sunday at Risley Square. This outdoor market features dozens of local businesses and vendors. Explore the market every Sunday through Sept. 27. Zumba at the Library

▶ 11 a.m. Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Join the library for fun dancing and exercise with friends and neighbors. Participants are encouraged to wear loose, comfortable athletic clothing. Please call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more. When Life Gives You Lemons Book Launch by Jennifer Salerno

▶ 1 p.m. Gateway by the Bay, 738 Bay Avenue, Somers Point

Join Gateway for a celebration of community, courage, and kindness. This heartwarming afternoon will mark the launch of ‘When Life Gives You Lemons’, inspired by a local six year old’s journey with a rare kidney disease. Audiences will enjoy a special live reading, interactive family activities, treats, and special guests. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children. Kids under two are free. Purchase tickets online at www.gatewaybythebay.org. Four Magnificent Male Icons

▶ 7:30 p.m. Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk The music of Neil Diamond, Elvis Presley, Bobby Darin, and Barry Manilow will come to life in this star-studded show. Vocalists Chas Fortescue, Johnny Drumgoole, Massino Brutto, and Noah Bloom emulate the larger-than-life singers and their expansive catalogs with impressive precession. Tickets are available at w w w.oceancity vacation.com/boxoffice.

Monday, August 31 Mahjong Mondays

▶ 10 a.m. Otto Bruyns Library, 241 W. Mill Road, Northfield

↘Continued on 14

▶ 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

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

August 27, 2026

↘Continued from 13 Join in this game of skill, strategy and luck with friends and neighbors every Monday. Interested players are invited to drop-in. No pre-registration is required. 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 the final Monday Morning Madness of the season. This week, pack your chairs and blankets and enjoy the ventriloquism of Justin Thomas. The event is free to attend. Bingo at the Library

▶ 6:30 p.m. Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Test your knowledge with family, friends, and great company and join Longport Library for a fun-filled evening of bingo. Winners will receive a special prize. Please call 609-4877403 to register or learn more. Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk

▶ 7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City Head to the world-famous Atlantic City boardwalk on Monday for Lundi Gras. Celebrate the beginning of a new week with the sounds of New Orleans funk and jam band Flow Tribe. Hosted by Tony Mart Presents.

Tuesday, September 1

Wednesday, September 2

▶ 3 p.m.

▶ 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Margate Library, 8100 Atlantic Avenue Join JFS Village for their monthly book club gathering to discuss the best-selling book ‘Raising Hare: A Memoir’. The title, written by Chloe Dalton, focuses on life in the English countryside away from the bustle of city life. RSVP by Aug. 27 by calling 609-287-8872 or email tserota@ jfsatlantic.org. Furry Buddies

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. Boardwalk Hall Organ Recital and Tour

Thoughts from the Bookshelf

▶ 6 p.m. Mays Landing Library, 40 Farragut Avenue Read a story to therapy dogs Fritz and Frieda, who love sharing stories with children. Open to children of all ages; children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Please call 609-625-2776 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.

Ocean City Farmers Market

▶ 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 Peter Richard Conte 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. Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk

Wednesday, September 9

▶ 7 p.m.

Depression and Anxiety Group

Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City Bring your chairs and dancing shoes for an evening of live music on the Atlantic City boardwalk. Hear the sounds of Teddy Pendergrass come alive with an official tribute by Love T.K.O. The show will also include a performance by The Ashcats and the Plaid Salmon Horns. Hosted by Tony Mart Presents. Starman: The Best of David Bowie

▶ 7:30 p.m. Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk David Bowie left a permanent mark on the world of popular music and a career that spanned almost 50 years. Vocalist Camille K will join Ocean City Pops Maestro Vince Lee and the Vince League Superstars on a journey through the entire Bowie catalog. Tickets are available at www.oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

Friday, September 4

Heart & Soul: A Tribute to the Timeless Tunes of Carole King

▶ 10:30 a.m.

Open Everyday except Tues.

Ski Beach, Ventnor Mark your calendars for the final outdoor concert of the season in Ventnor for 2026 this Labor Day Weekend. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening of party favorites by The Usual Suspects. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, 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.

Katz JCC, 501 N. Jerome Avenue, Margate Join JFS Village for a musical brunch featuring singer and pianist Shaina Faith as she blends a unique style to create a meaningful experience that resonates with all audiences. Sing along to beloved Carole King classics you know and love. Attend in-person at the Katz JCC Boardroom. RSVP by Aug. 28 by calling 609-287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

Saturday, September 5

Ventnor Goodbye to Summer Concert

▶ 6:30 p.m.

Cold Cookin’ Sweet Snacks for the Jewish New Year

▶ 10:30 a.m. Katz JCC, 501 N. Jerome Avenue, Margate Join JFS Village for a fun class on cooking overnight apples and honey oats. Learn about other flavor combinations to spice up your breakfast. RSVP by Sept. 2 by calling 609-2878872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic. org.

Health and Wellness ▶ Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Atlantic Community Wellness Center 1125 Atlantic Ave. Suite 617, Atlantic City This weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, selfcare, 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 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@ mhanj.org. Dementia Support Group

▶ Wednesday, September 2, 1:30 p.m. Egg Harbor Township Community Center 5045 English Creek Ave. Held on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at 609-402-6966 for more information. NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶ Monday, 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. Participants gain the support of peer who understand their experience and gain insight into others challenges and successes. 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.

August 27, 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.

New businesses coming to Historic Smithville Business Buzz By Rich Baehrle

istoric Smithville and the Village Greene have long ranked among South Jersey’s most distinctive destinations. Cobblestone walkways, footbridges, historic buildings and locally owned shops and restaurants surround Lake Meone, creating an experience that is difficult to duplicate. At the center of the village is the historic Smithville Inn, which traces its roots to 1787. James Baremore built what became a popular stop for travelers between the Philadelphia area and the Jersey Shore. Fred and Ethel Noyes purchased the building in 1952, restored it and opened a 42-seat restaurant. The inn can now accommodate more than 200 guests. As its popularity grew, other historic South Jersey buildings were moved to the property, restored and converted into shops and eateries. Today, Historic Smithville and the Village Greene feature more than 60 specialty shops, seven eateries and family attractions that include a train, carousel and paddleboats. The village also presents more than 30 free

Brick Shoppe events and festivals throughout the year, including Mayfest, Oktoberfest, car shows, children’s activities, Girls Night Out and holiday celebrations. Smithville introduced Christmas in July this year, combining seasonal decorations and activities with summertime shopping. The traditional holiday season remains one of its biggest draws, highlighted by the Magical Talking Tree and the Holiday Light

“We’re a unique destination for LEGO fans of all ages,” Cameron Lease said. Brick Shoppe will carry a variety of LEGO sets and allow customers to purchase individual bricks in bulk and create their own minifigures. The inventory will also include LEGO-themed backpacks, lunchboxes, storage containers, books, accessories and gifts. Cameron Lease grew up in Mays Landing and graduated from Oakcrest High School. Julia Lease grew up in Toms River. They met while attending Ramapo College and now live in Barnegat. The couple’s inspiration for the store came from Brayden’s enthusiasm for LEGO products. As chief kid officer, he helps inspect sets, pieces and other products to determine what might appeal to young customers. The store is scheduled to open Sept. 1. The Toy Cellar and Brick Shoppe reflect the character of Historic

Show on the Lake. The show features more than 120 illuminated Christmas trees synchronized to music. Two new independent stores, The Toy Cellar and Brick Shoppe, are joining the village’s retail lineup. The Toy Cellar opened July 24. Owner Darlene Hinrichsen, who also operates the Crafting Cellar, plans to hold a grand opening celebration. The independently owned toy store offers classic toys, stuffed animals, squishies, books, games and craft activities. Its slogan, “The best memories start here,” reflects Hinrichsen’s goal of offering toys that evoke childhood memories in a destination known for nostalgia and family traditions. Hinrichsen grew up in Milmay and began her career operating an accounting and bookkeeping business. She later turned her interest in crafting from a home-based venture into a retail operation. She gained retail experience The Toy Cellar on the Wildwood Boardwalk from 1993 through 1998. She now atSmithville, where independent busitends trade shows to find distinctive ness owners can turn personal interproducts and classic toys that may ests into specialized retail concepts. In turn, visitors can find products and not be available at big-box retailers. experiences unavailable at many conHinrichsen said she was drawn to Smithville’s charm and strong sense ventional shopping centers. of community. She and her husband, Supporting these locally owned Mike, have two sons, three grandstores helps preserve the personality and economic vitality of Smithville daughters and three Jack Russell terriers. and the surrounding community. Brick Shoppe, meanwhile, is Rich Baehrle is a commercial and preparing to open at 3 N. New York residential real estate broker with Road, across from the Smithville Inn. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Cameron and Julia Lease own the Fox & Roach, Realtors. He has been a store, with help from their 5-year-old real estate professional for 43 years. son, Brayden, who holds the playful He can be reached at 609-226-6680 title of “chief kid officer.” or richard.baehrle@foxroach.com.

August 27, 2026

Farmers Markets Atlantic City Farmers Market

tion, call 1-800-BEACH-NJ or visit oceancityvacation.com. Risley Square Farmers Market

▶ Fridays, 4 – 6 p.m. Fisherman’s Park Community Garden, Massachusetts & Drexel Avenues Join C.R.O.P.S. for their weekly farmers markets, where you can shop for locally grown vegetables, fruit and herbs. Plus, enjoy free activities and a community garden with harvested vegetables and herbs. Markets are open Fridays through Sept. 18. Brigantine Farmers Market

▶ Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 319 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway Come shop for produce, homemade goods, fresh baked treats, local crafts, and more. It is the perfect way to spend a Sunday while supporting local and connecting with the community. Markets are open Sundays through Sept. 27. Somers Point Farmers Market

▶ 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

▶ Thursday, August 27, 4 – 7 p.m. Historic Smithville Village Greene,

▶ Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

615 E. Moss Mill Road Go Green Galloway hosts their Green Market this Thursday, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates. Margate Community Farmers Market

▶ Thursdays, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. Steve & Cookie’s, Amherst & Monroe Avenues The Margate Community Farm-

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

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

▶ Wednesdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Ocean City Tabernacle Grounds, Asbury Avenue from 5th – 6th Streets Visit dozens of vendors on the grounds of the Tabernacle, and crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave. Markets are open Wednesdays through Sept. 16. For more informa-

Somers Mansion, 1000 Shore Road The Somers Point Farmers Market features dozens of local food vendors, crafters, and hometown businesses is set up on the grounds of the 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.

Women’s 21+

BASKETBALL LEAGUE

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 27, 2026

Looking back at the singing tower of Lake Lenape created by damming the Great the ice melted in spring, the Egg Harbor River. The first soil dropped into place around dam at the site was constructn the quiet shoreline of the foundation. Lake Lenape in Mays ed around 1844 by Jeremiah Using largely hand tools Landing stands a lightStull, flooding roughly 300 and receiving occasional help acres and creating what was house that has never from local children, Dehn coninitially called Mays Landing guided a ship home. structed a five-story, roughly Pond. The water would later 65-foot wooden lighthouse. There is no rocky coastline here, help power local industry, inThe ambitious project took no ocean fog and no freighters four years, with the tower searching for a safe harbor. Instead, cluding a cotton mill. completed around 1943. A the 65-foot tower was built for a By the early 20th century, much more whimsical purpose: to fill however, the lake was becom- Historic postcard promoting Lake Lenape Park as a place of semi-spiral staircase connecta popular South Jersey amusement ing known just as much for amusements and leisure ed its floors. park with music. recreation. But unlike the lighthousFor years, hymns and gospel music According to the Township of es lining New Jersey’s coast, Lake Hundreds of people reportedly arHamilton Historical Society, the story Lenape’s tower was never designed floated from speakers near the top of rived for Fourth of July festivities of Lenape Park as a public gathering the Lake Lenape Lighthouse, earning by boat, wagon, bicycle and on foot, as an aid to navigation. place began in 1907, when the Rev. the unusual landmark the nickname enjoying music, boating, dancing, a Its attraction was sound rather McCormick, who later became the “the Singing Tower.” baseball game and fireworks. than light. first pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Today, the music is gone, but the Vintage advertisements later Speakers mounted high on the Church, approached the Leiling family lighthouse remains a weathered repromoted Lenape Park as the “Ideal structure broadcast hymns and Picnic and Amusement Park of South gospel music over the lake, creating minder of the days when Lake Lenape about allowing church picnics on their Jersey.” Visitors could swim, canoe the “Singing Lighthouse” or “Tower was one of the region’s favorite sumlakefront property. and boat, while the property also of Music.” The songs could be heard mer playgrounds. The outings proved popular, atboasted bathing houses, amusement by families swimming, boating and Its story begins long before the tracting churches from as far away as Philadelphia. In 1910, the Leilings tower rose above the water. rides and a large roller-skating rink. picnicking around the resort. officially opened Lake Lenape Park. Against that backdrop, the LeilThe novelty helped make the lightFrom mill pond to A newspaper account from July ing family decided the park needed house famous beyond Mays Landing. 1911 shows just how quickly the park Lighthouse Digest reported that something unforgettable. summer destination became a community destination. postcards advertising the Singing Lake Lenape itself is man-made, Lighthouse circulated far beyond Building an island — and South Jersey. a lighthouse Insurance Specialists Since 1879 In 1939, the Leilings commissioned Imagine a summer evening at Lenape Park in the 1940s or 1950s: Herman Dehn Sr. to build a lighthouse swimmers coming out of the water, at the park. families gathered around picnic taThe first challenge was that there was nowhere to put it. Dehn created a bles, boats moving across the lake and music drifting from a lighthouse small artificial island in the lake, using that did not need a beacon because concrete and drums to establish a foundation beneath the water. it had a voice. During the winter, dirt was piled For a generation of visitors, that onto the frozen lake above it. When was part of summer in Mays Landing. By Sarah Fertsch

BUSINESS ~ HOME ~ FLOOD ~ AUTO & MORE

COMPETITIVE RATES FOR THE PROTECTION YOU NEED AT THE SHORE AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES.

Thank you for making us your Local Choice

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!

609-800-3177

barthtaxandﬁnancialservices.com August 27, 2026

When the Singing Tower went silent The Leiling era eventually came to an end. The park was sold to Ed and Winnie Young around 1960 or 1961. The Young family continued operating Lenape Park, and in 1973 reopened its indoor roller-skating rink after an earlier rink had been destroyed by fire. But Mays Landing was changing. As development increased around the lake, the music that had once been considered part of the park's charm apparently became less welcome. Neighbors complained about the sound, and local officials eventually directed that the music be stopped. The Singing Lighthouse lost its voice. The tower remained, though, taking on a different role in local life. Lighthouse Digest reported in 1999 that children of the Young family sometimes spent summer nights inside the lighthouse. In later years, the structure was used primarily to store boating and beach equipment. Meanwhile, generations continued associating the lighthouse with Lenape Park. It appeared in local publications, served as a landmark for boaters and rowing events and became a backdrop for weddings and photographs.

ago. Today, Lake Lenape Park East and West together encompass nearly 2,000 acres. The county maintains recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, playgrounds, picnic areas and pavilions. The lake itself remains central to Mays Landing life, just as it was more than a century ago.

The lighthouse that didn't need a light

An aging South Jersey landmark As the decades passed, maintaining the unusual wooden structure became increasingly difficult. Ownership of the park changed again beginning in 1999, and Atlantic County ultimately acquired the property. By the 2010s and early 2020s, preservation advocates were raising alarms about the lighthouse's deteriorating condition. A group known as Friends of the Lighthouse sought

money for restoration, while estimates for significant repairs climbed into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Whatever its structural future, Atlantic County still recognizes the tower as one of Lake Lenape Park East's defining features. The county's current park information lists a “Historic Lighthouse” among the park's amenities. The surrounding park has changed significantly from the amusement destination visitors knew a century

South Jersey has no shortage of famous lighthouses. Cape May, Absecon and Barnegat all tell stories of shipwrecks, maritime travel and keepers watching the horizon. Lake Lenape's lighthouse tells another kind of story. It is the story of the era when families traveled to local amusement parks for an entire summer day, when church picnics drew hundreds of people and when swimming, roller skating, canoeing and dancing could turn a lake in Mays Landing into a regional vacation destination. And it is the story of a builder who spent four years creating an island and erecting a five-story tower for a lighthouse that never needed to shine. For decades, its purpose was simply to make a summer evening on Lake Lenape a little more memorable.

NEW 2026 BATHING SUITS ARE HERE!

Everyday 11am-5pm

August 27, 2026

Where have South Jersey’s weakfish gone? By Sarah Fertsch

or generations of South Jersey anglers, weakfish were once as much a part of a day on the Bay as salt air, bait buckets and early-morning boat rides. In Fortescue, the small Cumberland County fishing village that once proudly billed itself as the “Weakfish Capital of the World,” fishermen could expect to return to the dock with coolers full of the speckled fish. Farther south, Cape May was another legendary destination for anglers hoping to hook a hefty “tide runner,” the nickname given to trophy-sized weakfish. Today, those fish have become considerably harder to find. Weakfish populations have been considered depleted along the Atlantic Coast since 2003, according to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. Although fishing pressure itself is not currently considered excessive, scientists say unusually high natural mortality has prevented the stock from making a meaningful recovery. The decline is particularly noticeable around the Delaware Bay, where weakfish once supported a thriving recreational fishing culture. South Jersey has attracted generations of fishermen seeking weakfish, especially the enormous tide runners that migrated into local waters. The connection is more than folklore. New Jersey’s state-record weakfish — an 18-pound, 8-ounce fish caught by Karl Jones in 1986 — came from the Delaware Bay. Those catches are almost unimaginable today.

Anglers are taking responsibility for the decline, assuming that overfishing has been the problem. Fifteen years ago, anglers could keep as many as 15 fish apiece. Today, New Jersey limits recreational fishermen to one weakfish of at least 13 inches per day. But scientists say the reason weakfish have failed to rebound is more complicated. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection claims that natural mortality — rather than current fishing pressure — appears to be one of the primary forces keeping the population low. Researchers have examined predation from dolphins and striped bass, changes in water temperature, food availability, bycatch and other environmental factors. Gorzo said estimates have attributed a significant portion of weakfish mortality to dolphin predation, particularly when the fish move offshore during winter. The Delaware River Basin Commission’s 2025 State of the Basin report classified the weakfish population as being in “poor” condition. While abundance measurements in the Delaware Bay were near historical averages in some surveys, the report found that weakfish survival remained low and catches of legal-sized fish had become uncommon. Roughly 80% of weakfish recorded in one Delaware survey were younger than two years old, suggesting relatively few fish are surviving long

enough to become the large adults anglers remember. That matters because the giant weakfish of South Jersey fishing lore did not become tide runners overnight. A fish had to survive multiple seasons, migrations and predators to reach trophy size. Today, anglers may still encounter smaller weakfish in local bays and inlets, but the double-digit-pound fish that once drew people to Fortescue are increasingly rare. The area was once such a wellknown weakfish destination that a recent fishing podcast examining the species’ disappearance referred to

the fish as the “Ghosts of Cape May.” Longtime fishermen have shared memories of childhood seasons when weakfish seemed almost limitless in South Jersey waters. The question remains whether warmer water is pushing the fish farther north or changing their migration patterns. Some point to growing populations of predators such as striped bass and dolphins. Still others believe decades of historic harvesting played a role. There may not be one simple answer. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission currently lists weakfish as depleted but says overfishing is not occurring. A 2025 assessment update was not accepted for use in management decisions, and fisheries managers are beginning work on a new benchmark stock assessment to more closely examine the population and the causes of its unusually high mortality. Until scientists better understand what is happening, strict harvest limits remain in place. For South Jersey fishermen, however, weakfish are more than numbers in a fisheries report. The weakfish are not gone entirely. Each spring and summer, anglers still find them along the South Jersey coast, and every big fish caught offers hope that the tide runners could someday become more than a memory.

August 27, 2026

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

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

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.

Pleasantville expansion gives Angels in Motion more room to serve

or Angels in Motion, a larger building means more than just extra square footage. It means more shelves for food. More racks for clothing. A room for yoga and breathwork. A lawn where families can gather to remember loved ones lost to the opioid epidemic. And, perhaps most importantly, more opportunities to meet people exactly where they are. The nonprofit organization, which serves people affected by substance use disorder, homelessness and other challenges, expanded its space at 2 W. Glendale Ave. in Pleasantville this sum-

mer, marking another step forward for a grassroots effort that has steadily grown throughout Atlantic County. “We knew there was a need for more community support,” Executive Director Susan Long said. “Our main thing was always street outreach, but there’s so many other needs with people in the community, with food and basic needs, and recovery support services.”

From the streets to a community hub Angels in Motion began in Philadelphia in 2015 after founder Carol Ros-

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

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!

tucher searched the streets of Kensington for her son, who was struggling with substance use disorder. Along the way, she encountered many other people in need and began distributing food, clothing, hygiene supplies and resource information with an emphasis on compassion rather than judgment. Her efforts attracted other volunteers and eventually grew into Angels in Motion. Long, who is herself in longterm recovery, volunteered with AIM in Philadelphia before helping establish its New Jersey chapter with Kerry Sullivan. The organization’s trademark “Blessing Bags” is the heart of its outreach. Filled with snacks, toiletries, clothing, resource information and notes of encouragement, the bags provide both immediate necessities and a way for volunteers to begin building trust with people they meet on the streets. The Atlantic County operation has distributed thousands of bags each month through the help of volunteers, churches, schools and families. The Pleasantville location began years ago with a more modest mission. Long said AIM originally occupied a small portion of the former OCEAN Inc. building, primarily using it for office space and donated clothing. Volunteers initially opened the center only a few days each week. As the need and support grew, so did the operation. A grant allowed AIM to hire a fulltime employee, expand its hours and develop a community garden where visitors can pick produce, help water plants or simply spend time outside. This June, AIM expanded farther into the building. Long said the Pleasantville location is particularly valuable because it sits along a bus route, offers parking and is centrally located in the community. Now, AIM also has a large front

porch, front lawn and garden where it can hold programs and events. “This space is for the community,” Long said.

Food, clothing and everyday necessities AIM has enlarged its food pantry, clothing closet and toiletry supplies. Case manager and recovery coach Laura Rowan said anyone in need can come in for assistance without having to prove income or provide identification. “They can get a food bag. If they need toiletries, if they need clothing, anything like that, we don’t ask any questions,” Rowan said. Those items can be particularly important for someone moving from the streets into treatment or sober living, or for someone temporarily staying in a hotel.

Creating space for wellness The expansion is also giving AIM room to address needs that go beyond food and clothing. One area has become the Amber Blue Wellness Room, named in memory of one of Long’s close friends who died from an overdose. In that space, AIM offers free yoga, breathing workshops, drumming and other stress-reducing activities designed to promote connection and emotional well-being. Rowan said current offerings include garden yoga on Tuesday evenings along with free yoga programs offered through community partners later in the week. The expanded office also includes meeting space where representatives from other agencies can speak with AIM staff about their services.

A community remembers The larger property recently became the setting for one of AIM’s most

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

August 27, 2026

that can include referrals meaningful annual traditions: its to inpatient and outpatient overdose awareness gathering. treatment, connections to Families, service organisupportive housing, overzations and members of the recovery community gathered dose-prevention education outside the Pleasantville office and Narcan, along with to remember lives lost to overnonjudgmental guidance for dose. people navigating recovery. Visitors wrote the names of In Atlantic County, that loved ones and messages on work has increasingly includpurple flags, then placed the ed formal case management. flags around a tree on the propCounty records show Anerty, creating a memorial visible gels in Motion was awarded a 2026 professional services from the road. agreement for case manA number of people who had lost loved ones also spoke agement as part of Atlantic during the event. “It’s really a From left is Hassan Jones, Tricia Bradley, Beth Senay, and County’s allocation of opioid beautiful event,” Rowan said. settlement funds. Susan Long. Earlier gatherings were also For Rowan, that can held on the Ventnor beach and at First mean helping someone with issues tions can also form fundraising teams Steps Church in Pleasantville. This that may seem routine until a person or sponsor the event. year, AIM’s expanded property made has to navigate them while starting It will be the second Angels at the it possible to bring the event directly Shore Recovery Walk. The inaugural over. event was held in Atlantic City in 2024. to its own grounds. She assists clients with transportaThis year, AIM is bringing it home to tion to recovery court, replacing birth certificates or Social Security cards, Walking for recovery in Pleasantville. obtaining identification and connect“It’s really a walk to celebrate all 2026 of our recovery,” Long said. “But we The next major event on AIM’s ing with public assistance. also try to remember all the people calendar is the Angels at the Shore Transportation can be a major obRecovery Walk, set for Saturday, Sept. we’ve lost.” stacle, Rowan said. Someone living in 26, at Lakes Bay Unity Park in Pleasa sober home may technically have a bus route to an appointment but face antville. Removing the small Walk-day activities run from 9 to 11 hours of travel because of transfers. barriers a.m., and registration is $20, according Much of Angels in Motion’s work The organization also works to to the Greater Atlantic City Chamber’s connect people leaving treatment happens outside of public events. event listing. Individuals and organizawith sober living and other support. AIM provides recovery support

August 27, 2026

Rowan said move-in costs of several hundred dollars can present a major hurdle for someone coming directly from treatment or homelessness. Atlantic County has identified sober living, transportation and case management among significant recovery-support needs locally, according to its opioid settlement strategic plan.

Lived experience comes full circle That mission is especially personal for many of the people doing the work. Rowan is in long-term recovery and said she spent years homeless while struggling with addiction. Years ago, when she began her own recovery, she said many of the services she now helps people access were not nearly as readily available. Today, she gets to watch people piece their lives back together by securing documents and health coverage, setting goals, building resumes and looking for jobs. Rowan and Long described people AIM once encountered while they were homeless or actively using substances who later entered recovery, came back to volunteer and eventually became employees. “There are people that we actually got off the streets,” Long said. “Now they have an opportunity to help others.”

Somers Point Good Old Days Festival returns Sept. 12 with free entertainment, $1 food and community traditions Great Bay Country Club neighborhood, looping around the golf course. Proceeds from the race support the Somers Point Historical Society’s efforts to provide scholarships, educational programs and preservation initiatives for future generations. "This event is our opportunity to say thank you," McGuigan, who is also the race director, said. "Every day, our first responders answer the call without hesitation. The Run to Remember allows our community to recognize their dedication, honor those we've lost, and celebrate the

By Julia Train

or nearly five decades, the Somers Point Good Old Days Festival has brought generations of residents together for a day of music, food, activities, community — and $1 hot dogs and hamburgers. The annual festival will take place Saturday, Sept. 12, at John F. Kennedy Park in Somers Point. Organized by a subcommittee of the Somers Point Historical Society, the event will feature free entertainment, children’s activities, community groups, vendors, classic cars and more. Sean McGuigan, chairman of the festival’s organizing committee, has been involved with the event for approximately 25 years. He said the festival’s appeal comes from its ability to bring people together while maintaining the traditions that have made it a local favorite. “The essence of it — or the core of it — has remained the same,” McGuigan said. “And really that is the coming together and renewing old friendships and spending some time with your neighbors.” The festival began 48 years ago as

A beer garden and tent provides adult beverages. an end-of-summer picnic organized by Lawrence “Bud” Kern, who helped establish the Somers Point Recreation Department, Little League and other local recreation programs. The picnic was intended as a way for residents to reconnect before the start of the school year and the return to regular routines. Over the years, the picnic grew into the Good Old Days Festival.

While the event has lost two years — one because of a hurricane and another because of the COVID-19 pandemic — its traditions have continued. One of the most recognizable is the festival’s $1 hamburg- The festival features three bands performing free music from ers and hot dogs, noon to 6 p.m. which McGuigan said spirit of service that keeps our comremain a highlight of the day. “You can come to the festival and munities safe." reminisce about the good old days, Transportation to the event is when you could buy a hamburger for also a priority. Festival parking will be available at several locations $1,” he said. throughout Somers Point, including The festival will also feature three Firehouse No. 1 on Bethel Road, bands performing free music from Dawes Avenue School, Jordan Road noon to 6 p.m., along with children’s School and Gregory’s Restaurant activities, crafters, community orga& Bar on Shore Road. Free shuttle nizations and a selection of classic buses will transport attendees to and cars. This year, attendees can expect from JFK Park. to see two to three times as many McGuigan said the festival typicalclassic cars as in previous years as ly draws between 6,000 and 7,000 the Historical Society incorporates people, including visitors who return elements of its former October car to Somers Point specifically for the show into the festival. annual gathering. A beer garden and tent will also be “Since it’s been so long, we now have generations and generations,” available for adults. he said. “Perhaps kids and people For those looking to get active that have moved out of town put it before the festival begins, the Run on a calendar and they come back to to Remember 5K will start at 9 a.m. The race honors first responders who Somers Point just to see old friends.” lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001, while McGuigan said attendees are enalso recognizing first responders in couraged to bring a beach chair, take the free shuttle and settle in for the the local community. A new team competition will day. debut this year, with police, fire, disJulia graduated from Rider Unipatchers, sheriff offices, rescue and versity in 2024 with a BA in mulother agencies throughout the state tiplatform journalism and minor in forming teams. McGuigan said the social media strategies. In addition five fastest times from each team will to reporting on local news for Shore be averaged, with the team posting Local, she is a social media strategist the lowest average time earning a for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @ trophy to keep until next year’s race. The 5K course winds through the juliatrain on Instagram.

August 27, 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

UPCOMING SHOWS

Dolly Parton leaves lasting connection to Atlantic City

ountry music icon Dolly Parton, who brought her voice and larger-than-life personality to Atlantic City stages, died Tuesday, Aug. 25, in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80.

JOSH BASSETT

PRESENTS JERSEY MAGICK

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

community SPOTLIGHT

The Vagina Monologues AUGUST 22 & 23

Parton’s publicist said she died peacefully after a brief battle with cancer. Her death prompted tributes from generations of fans. Parton opened her Vintage Tour at the House of Blues at Showboat

Atlantic City on Aug. 16, 2005. The sold-out concert gave South Jersey fans a look at the production, which promoted her album “Those Were the Days.” The show blended selections from the recording with Parton’s best-known songs, including “9 to 5,” “Jolene,” “My Tennessee Mountain Home” and “Coat of Many Colors.” The tour continued through the United States and Canada, but its first performance took place on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Parton returned to the resort May 3, 2008, for a concert at the Borgata Event Center during her Backwoods Barbie Tour. That tour supported the album of the same name, which included the title track, “Better Get to Livin’” and “Jesus & Gravity.” Born Jan. 19, 1946, in Sevier County, Tennessee, Parton rose from humble beginnings in the Great Smoky Mountains to become one of the world’s most recognized singers, songwriters and entertainers. Her seven-decade career produced clas-

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

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS Book Launch Celebration

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30

GATEWAYBYTHEBAY.ORG

609-653-0553

738 BAY AVENUE | SOMERS POINT, NJ

sics such as “I Will Always Love You” and earned honors across music, film and television. Parton’s influence extended beyond entertainment. Through her Imagination Library, she helped provide free books to children around the world. For Atlantic City concertgoers, Parton’s local appearances offered opportunities to experience a star whose warmth, humor and storytelling felt personal, even in a crowded theater. Photos by Tom Briglia.

AS LOW AS

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? 26

August 27, 2026

Switching gears as we bid farewell to summer By Robin Stoloff

here is a very specific feeling that hits us every year around this time. The mornings start to feel a little different, the light changes, and somewhere in the back of our minds a switch flips that says summer is ending and it is time to get serious again. If we have kids or grandkids, the shift is impossible to miss. One week we are negotiating bedtime around fireworks and ice cream trucks, and the next we are back to packing lunches, checking backpacks, and getting everyone out the door on a schedule. Back to school is not a gentle transition. It is a full reset, and most of us feel the effects of it right along with the kids. What we do not talk about enough is that this shift happens even for those of us whose kids are grown and long past school age. We may not be packing lunches anymore, but Labor Day still feels like a big shift. Maybe it comes from years of following this calendar, or maybe it is simply that the season itself changes and our routines change with it. Either way, September starts to feel like a second January, a natural point to reset.

It hits me every year, even though my own kids are grown and building their own lives. There is a moment in late August when I catch myself thinking it is time to get back to business, as if I still have to get the kids ready for their first day of school. There is something useful in this feeling if we choose to use it. Psychologists refer to moments like this as temporal landmarks, the points in the year our minds naturally use to reset habits and intentions. New

Year's Day gets most of the attention, but Labor Day may be the more honest version of it. It comes with real structural change. Schedules shift, routines tighten, and our internal clocks respond whether we plan for it or not. Instead of treating the end of summer as a loss, we can treat it as an opening. For those of us with kids heading back into a routine, this is the moment to rebuild the basics without overcomplicating it. Earlier bedtimes

matter more than we sometimes admit, and so does returning to regular meals instead of the mix of snacks that gets us through a beach day. It is also a good time to bring some structured movement back into the week, whether that is a walk after dinner or a bike ride before. Summer gave us longer days, warmer weather and plenty of carefree moments. Now it is time to shift gears. Over the next few weeks, we can each set one small goal to ease back into a routine. Maybe that means an earlier bedtime for the kids, an earlier bedtime for ourselves, getting back to regular workouts or simply pulling the fall clothes out of storage and accepting that summer has run its course. There is something energizing about a fresh start, and September hands us one every single year. As we head into a new season, let's embrace it and step into fall feeling a little lighter, a little steadier and ready for whatever comes next. 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.

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 27, 2026

Back to school: Five tips for families, local school first days By Julia Train

ummer vacation is winding down, and soon kids will trade flip-flops and bathing suits for sneakers and backpacks as families swap slow mornings and days in the sun for earlier alarms, packed lunches and school-day routines. After more than two months of relaxed summer days, getting back into the swing of the school year can take some time. A little preparation, however, can help make the transition easier for both parents and kids.

1. Get back into a routine Waking up late on summer mornings is great, but they can make the first early-morning alarm of the school year feel even harder. Start easing kids back into their school-year sleep schedule a week or two before classes begin, including earlier bedtimes and wake-up times. Shannon Crawford, who has taught second grade at St. Joseph Regional School in Somers Point for 25 years, agrees that getting back into a routine before the first day can make the transition easier.

As a parent, Crawford followed a similar routine with her own children, getting them to bed by 8 p.m. and waking them at 7 a.m., or earlier depending on their school’s start time. As a teacher, Crawford said she can see the struggle in transition with her students after months lacking schedules. “They're usually very tired because they're not used to that structure. So if they get enough sleep and they get a good breakfast, you're already starting them off on the right foot,” Crawford said. “[One of the most common mistakes] is thinking it's still summer and staying up till 10 p.m. and [thinking] they'll adjust. They won't. They're going to be falling asleep in school, and they're going to be irritable. And it's just not a good way to start off.”

2. Get organized before the first day Avoid the back-to-school scramble by getting supplies, backpacks, clothes and other essentials ready ahead of time. Once supplies are purchased, have kids help organize their backpacks and school materials so they know where everything belongs before the first

morning. As a parent, Crawford made sure to get her children’s supplies together before the first day, but as a teacher, she sees students who struggle because their parents didn’t do that. “A kid that comes in that's already maybe a little nervous will be really nervous if they don't have what they need. So start getting their supplies ready, their backpacks ready, put them in a special spot in the house. So you know where their lunch is going to go, or who's responsible for picking the snacks out, that type of thing,” she said. “I see kids that come in unprepared, and I just feel bad for them, especially if they're a little nervous that first week of school.” Crawford also said laying out outfits the night before will help with getting ready.

3. Talk about the year ahead Whether they’re excited, nervous or somewhere in between, kids may have plenty of thoughts about returning to school. Take some time to talk about what they’re looking forward to, what they may be worried about and what they can expect during the first few days. Ask what they’re excited about, what they’re nervous about and what questions they have. For younger children especially, talking through what the first day might look like — from meeting a new teacher to finding their classroom — can make the unknown feel less intimidating.

4. Re-establish healthy habits Summer schedules can make it easy for healthy routines, like eating meals at the same time and limiting screen time, to slip. As school approaches, get kids back to regular mealtimes and less screen time before bed to help them feel rested and ready to learn. Each healthier habit will help the transition be as smooth as possible. “You want them to be well rested, well fed. It's just it makes all the difference. Make sure they have their snacks. Make sure they have their supplies, and they're ready to go,” Crawford said. Another way to re-establish a school-year routine is to make reading part of the evening again. Crawford said she wishes parents would read to their kids, not just for mandatory summer reading, but for pleasure. She said it’s not just a way to be ready for school, but it’ll also help them with life as a whole. “Have books at your home. Surround your kids with books. It's the single best

thing you can do to get your child ready for school academically in all the subject areas,” she said.

5. Give everyone time to adjust The first week back doesn’t have to be perfect. Between new schedules, homework, activities and early mornings, it can take time for the whole family to settle into a routine. It can feel like going from 0 to 100 with everything starting back up, for kids and parents alike. Be patient with yourself and your kids and give everyone some time to find their rhythm. Don't expect everything to fall into place immediately. The first week can be a trial-and-error period as families figure out new wake-up times, transportation, homework schedules and extracurricular activities. With a little preparation, families can make the transition from summer to school a bit easier. And with the first day arriving earlier than usual for some local students this year, it helps to know when that transition officially begins.

Local schools’ first day for the 2026-27 school year: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Absecon Public School District, Sept. 3 Atlantic City Public Schools, Sept. 1; Atlantic City High School, Sept. 3 ACIT, Sept. 3 Brigantine Public Schools, Sept. 8 Buena Regional School District, Sept. 3 Chartertech High School for the Performing Arts, Sept. 2. Egg Harbor City School District, Sept. 2 Egg Harbor Township High School and Public Schools, Sept. 1 Estell Manor School District, Sept. 2 Folsom Borough School District, Aug. 31 Galloway Public Schools, Sept. 3 Greater Egg Harbor Regional High School District, Sept. 2 Hamilton Township Schools, Sept. 2 Hammonton High School and Public Schools, Sept. 1 Linwood Public Schools, Sept. 2 Ocean City School District, Sept. 2 Mainland Regional High School District, Sept. 1 Margate City Schools, Sept. 2 Mullica Township School District, Sept. 3 Northfield Community Schools, Sept. 3 Pleasantville Public Schools, Sept. 4 Port Republic School District, Sept. 2 Somers Point Public Schools, Sept. 4 Ventnor City School District, Sept. 8

August 27, 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

Lifeguard races a staple of summer By David Weinberg

ifeguard racing has been a staple of summer on local beaches for over a century. Last week’s South Jersey Championships in Avalon marked the 105th edition of the event. The first one was held in 1919, when Atlantic City Beach Patrol chief Charles Bossert held a doubles row involving crews from Cape May, Wildwood and Atlantic City. It has since become as much of a part of summer on the Jersey Shore as strolling the Ocean City Boardwalk on a cool evening, getting sandy and salty at the beach in Ventnor, and being careful to “Waa, waa, watch the Tram Car please” in Wildwood. This summer was chock full of exciting races in events that stretched from Cape May Point to Brigantine. Along the way, the Atlantic City Beach Patrol emerged as the top team this summer, posting back-toback victories in the Margate Memorials and South Jersey’s. Other patrols also enjoyed success. Cape May relied on its depth and versatility to take top honors at the Dutch Hoffman Memorials in Wildwood for the first time since

and Avalon’s Ryan Finnegan. Granese t hw a r t e d Fitzpatrick’s bid for a “Big Three” sweep with a thrilling win in the South Jersey’s. The 35-year-old was one of only two rowers to earn points with top-five finishes in all three major singles races along with Longport’s McGrath. According to SJL Racing, McGrath’s fifth-place finish in the South Jersey’s enabled him to set a record as South Jersey’s alltime career points leader. McGrath, who has won Avalon’s James Hanway enjoyed success in lifeguard racing this season. three South Jersey singles Open doubles row titles (2016, ’18, ’25) has unofficially This summer featured a number of McGrath and Duffey placed fourth amassed 100 career points primarily tandems that could lay claim to being at the South Jersey’s after taking by rowing in singles and doubles varfifth at the Dutch Hoffman’s and secthe best boat. Atlantic City’s Vince Granese and ond in Margate. ious events. Nick Guidara get the nod as the top Margate’s Bobby Bechtal and He reportedly passed former doubles pair after by winning the Hayden Smallwood was also one of Ventnor rower David Funk in the caDutch Hoffman and South Jersey the top boats, winning on their host reer standings. races. beach and placing fourth at the Dutch Funk was a fourth-time South Jersey singles champion (2006, ’07, Longport veterans Mike McGrath Hoffman’s. ’09, 15) and teamed with Andrew and Sean Duffey continued their long Upper Township’s Chase Brown Funk (’02, ’03), Mike Tripician (’06, streak of success as the only one of and Ryan Manning had a pair of ’08, 12) and Mike Holland (’17) to win the 15 doubles crews to finish in the second-place showings at the Dutch Hoffman’s and South Jersey’s, retop five of all three major races. six doubles South Jersey races. spectively. Cape May’s Andrew Treffeison and Mike Fitzpatrick were third in both events. 1997. On the women’s side, Atlantic City emerged as the top team by winning the Longport Women’s Invitational and Bill Howarth Women’s Invitationl races. Longport edged Margate in the South Jersey Women’s Championship in Ventnor. Here are some of the top rowers, swimmers, paddleboard racers and other competitors who contributed to another outstanding summer for one of the area’s most popular and exciting sports.

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

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

Open swim A slew of outstanding swimmers made waves in the major races, but Atlantic City’s Charles Schreiner was at the top of the pack. Schreiner, a graduate of Egg Harbor Township High School and a rising junior at Boston University, won both the Dutch Hoffman’s and Margate Memorials before finishing third behind Avalon’s Tim Hanway and Upper Township’s Logan Manning in the South Jersey’s. Schreiner, Hanway and Manning all placed in the top five in each of the three major races. Brigantine’s James Haney and Ventnor’s Brian Falk were topfive in two of the events.

Singles row Cape May’s Michael Fitzpatrick was the most successful of a large contingent of tremendous singles rowers this summer. Fitzpatrick was the only two-time winner in singles, earning victories in the Dutch Hoffman’s and Margate Memorials. He also finished third in the Cape May County Championships behind Wildwood Crest’s Jake Klecko

Open paddleboard Cape May’s Clay Stephens had superb showing in paddleboard races. Stephens won both the Cape May County Championships and Dutch Hoffman Memorials and did so by comfortable margins. North Wildwood’s Luca DeFrisco also placed in the top five in both events.

August 27, 2026

Men’s surf dash relay

Women’s swim

The highlight of the Cape May County Lifeguard Championships in Wildwood Crest is almost always the surf dash relay. This year was no different. Ocean City’s Matt Bell, Wyatt Clayton, Andrew Shaw and anchor Jack Behm combined to win an exciting race and also help Ocean City earn the overall team title. Behm caught a wave at the end of the final leg to edge Wildwood Crest.

Atlantic City’s Ady Elko was arguably the area’s most dominant lifeguard competitor this summer. Elko won all three major women’s races she entered, taking first in the Longport Women’s Invitiational, Bill Howarth Women’s Invitational and South Jersey Women’s Championships. Cape May’s Madelyn Cassidy was another Atlantic City’s Vince Granese. top performer. She won the women’s swim at the Dutch Women’s paddleboard Hoffman Memorials and took second This was another event that proto Elko in the South Jersey Women’s duced multiple champions. race. Brigantine veteran racer Grace Emig won at the Dutch Hoffman Ocean City’s Rhylee Cornell won Memorials in a narrow victory over the Cape May County Championships. Ocean City’s Brynn Gallagher. Women’s singles row Wildwood Crest’s Lauren CrouthThis was a wide-open event this amel was first in the Cape May Counsummer with the three major events ty Championships and placed third at producing separate winners. the Dutch Hoffman’s. Margate’s Alexis Smallwood was Upper Township’s Gemma Kohles the South Jersey Women’s chamearned the top spot in the Longport Women’s Invitational ahead of Marpion. Ventnor’s Sam Keough easily won the Longport Invitational while gate’s Maria Zappone and Gallagher. Atlantic City’s Madison Lisitin nipped Longport’s Maddie Fox to win the Bill Women’s surf dash relay Howarth Invitational. Again, different races produced

Women’s doubles row Longport’s Lauren and Madelyn Fox were the top women’s doubles boat this summer. They opened the season with a victory in the Longport Women’s Invitational and ended it with another win in the South Jersey Women’s Lifeguard Championships. Ventnor’s Charlotte Thomas and Kailey Nirenberg took first in the Bill Howarth Women’s Invitational by edging Upper Township’s Connell and Kailey Grimley. A special shoutout goes to Sea Isle City’s Molly and Maura Quinn. When a member of Sea Isle’s regular doubles crew was forced to withdraw due to injury at the Margate Memorials, the Quinn’s stepped in and became the first women’s doubles crew to compete in the 80-year history of the race.

Our

35th

Personalized Service

different winners. Atlantic C i t y ’s Emma Crozier, Grace Marczyk, Tess Roman and Madison Listinsin crossed first in the Longpor t Women’s Invitational just ahead of Margate. Margate’s Isabella Jordanov, Ava McDole, Kami Smallwood and Callie Duff answered with a victory in the Bill Howarth Invitational. Ocean City’s Abby Hays, Chloe Care, Grace Cullen and Claudia Booth were first in the Cape May County championships. Congrats to all the competitors for another outstanding lifeguard racing season. But most importantly, thank you for keeping our beaches safe for another summer. David is a nationally recognized sports columnist who has covered Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his own Facebook page, Dave Weinberg Ex tra Points. Send comments to weinbergd419@ comcast.net.

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 27, 2026

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

A slice of summer: Exploring Ocean City’s pizza scene By Marcella Curcio

here are some foods that just feel like summer at the Jersey Shore, and pizza is pretty high on that list. Whether it’s a classic cheese slice, pepperoni, a specialty pie loaded with toppings, or something a little outside the box, pizza has long been the go-to meal for families looking for something quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. It can be a grab-and-go lunch between beach and boardwalk plans, a slice enjoyed while walking along the boards, or a full sit-down meal with family and friends. Especially in Ocean City, you certainly are not short on options. The Ocean City Boardwalk is home to several pizza shops, each bringing its own personality, style and loyal following. While their menus and specialties may differ, they all have something in common: pizza has a way of bringing people together. From a quick beach lunch to a latenight slice after a day of rides, pizza is practically part of the Ocean City summer experience. You can't talk about Ocean City pizza without talking about Manco & Manco. Its iconic location at the Ninth Street corner has become a boardwalk landmark, with its bright lights, colorful branding and merchandise shop helping draw your attention before you even reach the door. During

the summer, the line can tell you everything you need to know — stretching down the boardwalk as hungry beachgoers wait for their slice. For me, Manco & Manco is more than just a pizza shop. It is one of those places tied to my own Ocean City memories. It was actually what I ate on my first birthday, and growing up, Manco & Manco became part of my summers whenever my cousins would come down for vacation. I would always meet them there after getting off the beach, making it one of those familiar Ocean City traditions that sticks with you. That is what makes places like Manco & Manco so special. It is not just about the pizza. It is about the memories attached to it. Just outside Playland, you will find another Ocean City favorite: Prep's. One of the best parts about Prep's is that it offers a little bit of every-

#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

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

399-1343 398-5466 Delivery Available

August 27, 2026

thing for the ultimate boardwalk stop. Pizza and ice cream, all in one place? That's a pretty hard combination to beat. The location makes it especially convenient for families spending the day at Playland. You can grab pizza before heading onto the rides, stop for ice cream afterward, or simply make the short walk around the corner for a little bit of both. For families with kids, it is practically the perfect boardwalk equation: rides, pizza and ice cream. A newer addition to Ocean City's pizza scene, Alex's Pizza is already making its mark. Located on 12th Street, Alex's brings a little Philadelphia influence down the shore and is quickly building a following during its first summer in Ocean City. One of my personal favorites is the Sicilian pizza. I love the doughy texture while still getting that crispness on the outside. It has that combination of soft and crunchy that makes a Sicilian slice especially satisfying. It is always fun to see a newer restaurant find its footing at the shore, and Alex's is already becoming part of the local pizza conversation. Down on Sixth Street, Roma Pizza is another longtime go-to for slices and specialty pies. Pizza is certainly the star of the show, but it's not the only thing worth mentioning here. Roma also offers Italian dishes, including fresh meatballs that are juicy, tender, and worth ordering on their own. It's the kind of place that works whether you are grabbing a quick slice or looking for something a little more substantial. Right along the Promenade, Gigi's NY Pizza has a location that's hard to beat. Sitting near the Ocean City Wa-

terpark, it is an easy stop for anyone looking to grab something before or after a day of sliding down the waterslides. The menu goes beyond traditional pizza, with different pizza options and strombolis, along with cauliflower and gluten-free pizza options. If you are spending the day in that section of the boardwalk, it is a convenient spot to grab a quick bite without having to venture too far from the attractions. While it's not technically on the boardwalk, Express Pizza on Battersea Road is another Ocean City option worth mentioning. Located as you are heading toward the Gardens section of town, Express offers pizza alongside classic sandwiches, platters, and other favorites. It is a convenient neighborhood option for grabbing a pie to bring home, especially when you're looking for something outside the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk. Once you cross over the 34th Street Bridge and head into Ocean City's south end, Randazzo's is another family-friendly Italian restaurant to keep in mind. Located on 34th Street, it is a convenient stop whether you are

Events Here are some of the fun events happening in the Wildwoods: AUGUST 28 - 30 OPA Greek Fest

SEPTEMBER 13 PigDog Puppa Palooza

Sports Card, Toys, Comics & Collectibles August Show at the Wildwoods Convention Center

SEPTEMBER 18 - 19 Boots at the Beach State Fireman’s Convention, Fire Expo & Parade

SEPTEMBER 5 Ed’s Funcade World Championship Skeeball Tournament SEPTEMBER 6 Wildwood End of Summer Block Party at Fox Park

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 11 - 12 Mummers New Year’s in North Wildwood SEPTEMBER 11 - 13 Roots Classic Volkswagen Car Show North Wildwood Surf Fishing Tournament

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

of pizza lover. Ultimately, I think that is why pizza has become such a staple of the shore experience. It does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it is just sitting around a table with your family, grabbing slices with your cousins, eating on a bench after the beach, or walking the boardwalk with a paper plate in your hand. For me, those simple pizza stops are connected to some of my favorite Ocean City memories — from my first birthday at Manco & Manco to meeting my cousins there during summer vacations. It is not just a meal; it is part of summer.

arriving on the island and looking for dinner or spending the day down in the south end. Their pizzas feature a soft, doughy crust, and the welcoming, family-style atmosphere makes it feel like a place where you can settle in for more than just a quick slice. What I love about Ocean City's pizza scene is that there really is not one definition of the perfect slice. Maybe you're looking for a classic cheese pizza after the beach. Maybe you want a Sicilian with a crispy edge and doughy center. Maybe you're feeding a family before Playland. Or perhaps you're looking for gluten-free or cauliflower options. There is something for just about every kind

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

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

WILDWOODS ISLAND SHUTTLE—LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US Jitney service from Diamond Beach to Olde New Jersey Avenue... and everywhere in between!

• 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

August 27, 2026

Download the free Jitney Surfer app. Plan your visit today and enter to win a free family vacation. WILDWOODSNJ.COM 800.992.9732

Patriotic drone show lights up Ocean City sky

cean City celebrated America’s 250th anniversary with a patriotic drone show that illuminated the night sky above the beach and Boardwalk. Hundreds of synchronized drones formed colorful images and animations honoring the nation’s history, creating a memorable display for residents and visitors gathered along the shoreline. The 15-minute presen-

tation was visible from the beach and Boardwalk south of Sixth Street. The event marked Ocean City’s final patriotic drone show of the summer, concluding a series of aerial displays held as part of the community’s America 250 observances. Instead of traditional fireworks, the drones used carefully coordinated lights and movements to create changing designs against the dark sky. Photos by Pam Mariani.

TAKE OUT PLATTERS PARTY TRAYS KID’S MENU

STREET

SEAFOOD

Fresh Market & Cooked Seafood Platters

TRY OUR TASTY HAND-BREADED CHICKEN!

FREE KITE, YO-YO & JUGGLING LESSONS!

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

August 27, 2026

Phillie Phanatic brings playful antics to Ocean City Boardwalk

he Phillie Phanatic brought his trademark energy and playful antics to the Ocean City Boardwalk during a special appearance at Playland’s Castaway Cove Monday, August 24. The Philadelphia Phillies mascot greeted fans throughout the evening, posing for photos, joining families for selfies and entertaining visitors with his familiar brand of mischief.

August 27, 2026

Children and adults gathered around the colorful mascot as he made his way through the amusement park, creating memorable moments for Phillies fans spending time at the Shore. The Phanatic also ventured beyond Castaway Cove, stopping at neighboring Prep’s Pizza and Dairy Bar. His surprise visit drew plenty of

attention as customers and boardwalk visitors paused to take photos and watch the mascot interact with employees and guests.

The appearance included a brief stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk, where the Phanatic continued greeting fans and turning an ordinary evening into an unexpected celebration of Phillies baseball. With his oversized personality and unmistakable green fur, the Phanatic brought a touch of Citizens Bank Park to the Jersey Shore and gave visitors another highlight to remember from the final weeks of summer in Ocean City. Photos by Alex Corson.

Boardwalk toys and treasures By Marcella Curcio

here is something about walking down the Ocean City Boardwalk that makes you feel like a kid again. From the bright lights, the sounds coming from the rides, or the smell of fresh caramelized popcorn and saltwater taffy. Or maybe it is simply seeing all the colorful toys and treasures packed into the shops along the boardwalk. From classic toys to the latest trending collectibles, squishies, stuffed animals, games, puzzles, gag gifts, and everything in between, the Ocean City Boardwalk has no shortage of ways to bring home a little piece of summer. While some of these stores are better known for other things, their toy selections are part of what makes wandering through the boardwalk shops so much fun. Air Circus is one of those stores that catches your attention before you even walk through the door. Located around 11th Street, there always seems to be something happening outside, whether it's bubble machines, barking plush dogs, walking toy dogs on leashes, or other fun

outdoor toys. The fun and thrills do not stop at the entrance. Inside, you will find plenty of the trendy squishy toys that seem to be everywhere right now, including fun designs like dumplings and even a squishy stick of butter. There is also a prank wall filled with silly gag gifts, from fake mustaches to fun nerd glasses. Growing up, I remember my dad always pointing out those types of toys when we walked by because he was a total jokester himself. Those little moments are part of what makes a boardwalk toy store memorable — sometimes you are not even looking for anything, but you end up laughing at something you find. Air Circus also has a dedicated kite selection, including plenty of colorful options right along the beach outside the store. I remember getting kites there as a kid and being amazed by how high they could actually fly. There is something about watching your kite disappear higher and higher into the summer sky that feels like a quintessential childhood beach memory. Surf Mall is another Ocean City classic, and even the outside of the store feels like an experience. With its

movie-theater-style entrance, walking inside feels almost like stepping into a retro world. There is plenty to explore, from clothing and accessories to posters and collectibles. Of course, toys are part of the fun. One standout is “Slimeology”, where you can customize your own slime with different colors and addins. For kids — and let's be honest, plenty of adults — getting to create your own slime is half the fun. The store also has a large collection of Funko Pops, featuring characters ranging from Batman and the Joker to countless other favorites. Then there are the mystery and surprise boxes, where you don't know exactly which toy or character you are going to get until you open it. Add in the collection of squishy plush toys,

HOMEMADE SOUPS SERVED DAILY

and you could easily spend plenty of time browsing before deciding what is coming home with you. Right next to each other in front of Playland, Jilly's T-Shirt Factory and Candy Factory make for a pretty perfect post-ride stop. Of course, you can find plenty of Ocean City-themed shirts and sweet treats, but don't overlook the toy selections. There are fun plush toys, including bubble-tea-inspired characters, plush chip bags with stuffed-animal kittens popping out, and other colorful items that are just as tempting as the candy. There is also the Jilly's French fries mascot plushie, which makes for a fun souvenir to remember your boardwalk day. There is something very Ocean City about walking off a ride at Playland, grabbing a piece of candy, and then finding a little toy or souvenir to take home. The “World's Smallest Toy Store” – the name really does say it all. Tucked between other stores around Ninth Street, World's Smallest Toy Store may be small and narrow, but that does not mean there is not plenty to discover. Growing up, I knew the store was tiny, but somehow that was part of the experience. I remember going in with my mom and feeling like the space was almost our own little world. It was small enough that it felt like you could explore the whole store without anyone else around — even though, in reality, you probably could not fit many people inside at once. That is part of the charm. In a boardwalk filled with large, flashy

↘Continued on 38

SOUP & BREAKFAST SANDWICH SERVED SPECIALS ALL DAY

Open Daily 7am-3pm, Sunday 7am-2pm

Take Out Available

Enjoy Indoor or Outdoor Dining

415 Eighth Street • Ocean City • 609-399-4418 36

August 27, 2026

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.

↘Continued from 36

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

stores, there is something memorable about the tiny shop that makes you slow down and see what treasures are packed inside. When most people think of Shrivers, candy and saltwater taffy probably come to mind first. But growing up, I thought of Shrivers as having some of the most fun treats that could double as toys. There are candies shaped like meals, food, and other objects, and as kids, my friends and I could turn them into part of our own imaginary games. We'd use them to "feed" our dolls or play restaurant. Other candies come packaged or shaped like fun objects, making them feel like a two-forone: something sweet to eat and something fun to play with first. Shrivers does not stop at candy. The shop also has branded taffy plush toys and other Ocean City-themed stuffed animals that make great keepsakes. But if you are visiting during the summer, don't miss the famous taffy balloons. These things are massive. I remember getting one as a kid and feeling so cool walking down the boardwalk with this giant taffy balloon that seemed almost twice my size. It was impossible to miss — which, of course, was exactly the point. What I love about these boardwalk shops is that they are not just places to buy something. They are places where you can create a memory. Maybe it is picking out a kite and seeing how high you can get it to fly. Maybe it is opening a mystery box and finding out which character you got. Maybe it is making your own slime, buying a silly prank toy for someone in your family, or walking down the

boardwalk carrying a giant taffy balloon. That is the magic of boardwalk toys. Some of the things that seem small at the time become the memories you remember years later. I do not remember every toy I had

growing up. But I remember the kite I watched fly higher than I thought it could. I remember my dad pointing out the goofy prank toys. I remember squeezing into the World's Smallest Toy Store with my mom. And I definitely remember walking down the boardwalk with a giant Shrivers taffy balloon. That's what makes Ocean City's boardwalk shops so special. You might walk in looking for a toy, but you might walk out with a summer memory.

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

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 27, 2026

What’s happening in Ocean City

Ocean City events wind down as summer comes to a close

cean City’s summer calendar is winding down, with several weekly favorites making their final appearances before Labor Day. From Market Days and Mummers Night to free beach exercise classes and a special concert at the Music Pier, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the final days of summer in Ocean City.

Thursday, Aug. 27 ●

●

Market Days: Ocean Cit y’s downtown shopping district along Asbury Avenue features entertainment, face-painters, balloon-sculptors and more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This will be the final Market Day of the season. Mummers Night: String bands strut the Boardwalk between Sixth Street and 14th Street between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. This will be the final Mummers Night of the season.

Friday, Aug. 28 ●

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

Ocean City's final Mummers Night of the season is onThursday, Aug. 27. Photo by Cat Pepe Pops. 7:30 p.m. at the Music Pier. Tickets are available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

el and a friend. Monday, Wednesday and Friday beach exercise classes run through Sept. 4.

Sunday, Aug. 30

Monday, Aug. 31

●

Four Magnificent Male Icons: Special concert featuring the music of Neil Diamond, Barry Manilow, Elvis Presley and Bobby Darin. This concert is sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean City Pops but does not include the

Beach Exercise — Yoga: Free program (no registration needed) on the beach at Sixth Street starts at 8 a.m. Bring a towel and a friend. Monday, Wednesday and Friday beach exercise classes run through Sept. 4.

RNFS SU SSO LE

INCLUDES THE USE OF BOARD &WETSUIT

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

August 27, 2026

Recent Jersey Shore crashes highlight the importance of boat safety

inlet jetty

Aug./Sept.

High

Low

Rise

Set

Fri

8:38

8:5

2:43

6:23

7:35

Sat

9:15

9:32

3:14

3:21

6:24

7:33

Sun

9:54

10:11

3:46

4:02

6:25

7:32

Mon

10:36

10:53

4:2

4:48

6:25

7:30

Tue

11:23

11:41

5:00

5:39

6:26

7:29

Wed

12:14

5:45

6:37

6:27

7:27

Thu

12:33

1:11

6:37

7:42

6:28

7:26

Fri

1:33

2:16

7:38

8:56

6:29

7:24

Sat

2:44

3:28

8:49

10:09

6:30

7:23

Sun

3:59

4:37

10:02

11:16

6:31

7:21

Mon

5:08

5:40

11:11

6:32

7:19

Tue

6:09

6:37

12:16

12:15

6:33

7:18

Wed

7:03

7:28

1:09

1:12

6:34

7:16

Thu

7:52

8:13

1:55

2:04

6:35

7:15

Moon

By Sarah Fertsch

n the back bays of Atlantic and Cape May counties, many boaters will be squeezing in their final fishing trips, sunset cruises and afternoons spent with family and friends. However, a string of serious boating accidents along the Jersey Shore this summer offers a sobering reminder: A relaxing day on the water can turn dangerous in seconds. Several high-profile incidents this year have involved collisions, passengers being thrown overboard and emergency airlifts. As boat traffic increases for the holiday weekend, officials are urging people to slow down, pay attention, wear life jackets and leave alcohol out of the captain's seat.

Memorial Day crash turns fatal

BAIT & TACKLE

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

GOT BAIT?

On May 25, a boat carrying six people struck a channel marker in Barnegat Bay near Long Beach Island, according to New Jersey State Police. Two occupants were ejected from the boat and critically injured. The other four people aboard suffered minor injuries. One of those thrown from the vessel, 28-year-old Gunnar Pearson of Barnegat, later died from his injuries. At the time, investigators had not announced what caused the crash. Witnesses told news outlets that visibility on the bay had been poor and foggy around the time of the collision. Nearly three months later, the case took another turn. State Police charged Pearson's mother, 59-yearold Jennifer Pearson, in August, alleging that she was operating the boat while intoxicated when it struck the marker. She has been charged with death by vessel, operating a vessel under the influence, reckless operation, operating without a Boating Safety Certificate and failure to maintain a proper lookout. She was released following a detention hearing Aug. 21 as the case proceeds through court. The charges are allegations, and Pearson has not been convicted. The case underscores a basic principle that applies just as much on the water as it does on the road: The person behind the wheel needs to remain sober, alert and focused.

Alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in fatal recreational boating accidents nationwide. In the Coast Guard's 2024 statistics, it was the leading factor in 20% of boating deaths where a primary cause was known.

Collision offshore prompts Coast Guard rescue Another serious accident occurred July 31. Two boats carrying a total of four people collided roughly 10 miles offshore shortly before 11:30 a.m., prompting a mayday call and response from the U.S. Coast Guard. One person suffered injuries to the head and arm and was airlifted to a hospital. Coast Guard crews deployed both a rescue boat and helicopter, while the damaged vessels were eventually towed to a marina. New Jersey State Police later said the crash involved a group of divers whose vessel was anchored above a shipwreck and a 33-foot fishing boat traveling about 25 knots on autopilot. One injured diver was flown to a hospital after the collision. The incident illustrates why a proper lookout remains essential even when a boat is equipped with modern navigation systems. Autopilot, GPS and other technology can assist an operator, but they do not eliminate the need for someone to actively watch the water ahead.

Safety starts before leaving the dock Fortunately, most days on New Jersey's waterways end exactly as they should — with everyone returning safely to shore. Preparation can help keep it that way. Before heading out, the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau recommends checking the weather, making sure necessary safety equipment is aboard, wearing life jackets while underway and abstaining from alcohol while boating. Boaters should also make sure someone on land knows where they are going and approximately when they plan to return. A simple float plan can include the names of passengers, a description of the boat, the departure location, destination and expected return time. If the boat never returns, that information can give rescuers an important head start.

August 27, 2026

Put the life jacket on Having enough life jackets aboard the boat is important. Wearing them is even better. The U.S. Coast Guard found that 76% of fatal recreational boating accident victims whose cause of death was known in 2024 drowned. Among drowning victims whose life-jacket use was known, 87% were not wearing one. New Jersey requires boats to carry a properly sized, Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device for everyone aboard. Requirements vary by vessel, but boats 16 feet or longer generally must also carry an immediately accessible throwable flotation device. Children age 12 and younger must wear an approved life jacket while the vessel is underway unless they are inside an enclosed cabin. A life jacket should fit snugly and be appropriate for the wearer's size. For children, State Police recommend testing the fit before leaving the dock rather than discovering a problem once an emergency is underway.

Slow down when the waterways get crowded Labor Day weekend can bring significantly more traffic to bays, rivers and inlets. More boats mean less room for error. Operators should maintain a safe speed for the conditions and keep a constant lookout for other boats, personal watercraft, paddlers, swimmers, channel markers and other hazards. New Jersey law requires vessels to slow to "slow speed/no wake" in a number of circumstances, including when passing within 200 feet of marinas, docks and piers and while traveling through certain narrow lagoons, canals and bridge openings. Even when a posted speed restriction isn't present, operators are responsible for adjusting their speed when congestion, poor visibility, waves or other conditions make faster travel unsafe. That becomes especially important around inlets and channels, where currents can be strong and boats of dramatically different sizes may be sharing a relatively small space.

August 27, 2026

Know the rules before taking the helm New Jersey generally requires operators of power vessels to complete an approved boating safety course and possess a Boating Safety Certificate. Out-of-state visitors staying in New Jersey for less than 90 days may meet the requirement with an accepted safety certificate or proof of an approved course from their home state. Operating a boat while impaired is also illegal. New Jersey considers a blood-alcohol concentration of .08% or greater legally intoxicated for operating a vessel, just as it does for driving. For a holiday weekend barbecue on the water, the safest approach is simple: designate a sober operator from the beginning and keep that person sober for the entire trip.

A boating checklist Before leaving the dock: ● Check the marine forecast and continue monitoring changing conditions. ● Make sure every passenger has a properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved life jacket — and encourage everyone to wear it. ● Keep children 12 and younger in their life jackets while underway. ● Confirm that navigation lights, sound-producing devices, distress signals and other required equipment are working. ● Carry a charged phone or marine radio for emergencies. ● Tell someone on shore where you're headed and when you expect to return. ● Assign a sober operator. ● Keep a dedicated lookout rather than relying solely on GPS, radar or autopilot. ● Slow down near docks, marinas, swimmers and congested waterways. ● Pay close attention to channel markers and navigational aids. ● Give other vessels plenty of room and avoid sudden course changes. ● If visibility deteriorates or storms approach, slow down or head for shore. The Coast Guard recorded 3,887 recreational boating incidents nationwide, resulting in 556 deaths and 2,170 injuries. Those numbers shouldn't discourage people from enjoying the Shore's waterways. They should reinforce how much responsibility comes with taking the helm. The goal isn't to squeeze every possible minute out of summer. It's to make sure everyone aboard gets another summer on the water next year.

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

Weather deserves special attention at the Shore, where conditions can change quickly. Fog can dramatically reduce visibility, while summer thunderstorms can bring lightning, strong winds and rough water. If thunderstorms threaten while you're on the water, emergency officials recommend getting to land as quickly as possible.

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

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

www.FLYOCNJ.com 41

Giving back, one grant at a time: Kyle Ruffin on the importance of investing in South Jersey communities Coastal Conversations By Alanna Stoloff

very community thrives because of people who are passionate about making a difference. Through leadership, philanthropy and a commitment to helping others, Kyle Ruffin has become a driving force behind initiatives that strengthen nonprofit organizations and improve the lives of South Jersey residents. As the former president of Impact100 South Jersey, Kyle has worked alongside women who pool their resources to award transformative grants to local nonprofits, helping them expand their reach and create lasting change. Kyle shares what inspires her work, the impact of collective giving and why investing in the community is more important than ever. AS: Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to pursue community leadership? KR: In my work life, I always gravitated to initiatives that help people. I started my career at KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia where I engaged with

nonprofits throughout the region. I loved putting the station’s resources to work for the community. Eventually, I began working for nonprofits, and over the years, I served on several boards. The board that led to the launch of Impact100 South Jersey was Community Foundation of South Jersey’s (CFSJ). AS: You were a founding member of Impact100 South Jersey. What inspired you to become involved, and what has it meant to watch the organization grow over the years? KR: CFSJ was looking for a way to introduce collective giving to South Jersey. I didn’t see how we could pull this off until I learned about Impact100. One woman, one $1,000 donation, one vote. Surely we could find 100 women to donate $1,000. Impact100 is an international women’s collective giving model that has

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! • 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 42

• 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

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

granted over $178 million in local communities since 2001. In 2017, seven generous, compassionate South Jersey women launched our chapter, which was awarded over $1.6 million to 30 organizations. It has meant a lot to see Impact100 South Jersey grow and support more organizations. I also enjoy seeing how much our members are engaged with us and with some of the organizations we have funded. AS: Impact100 South Jersey has awarded transformational grants to local nonprofits. Are there any projects or success stories that have especially inspired you? KR: We’ve awarded dozens of grants, so there are many wonderful stories. Our $50,000 Pinelands Preservation Alliance grant in 2020 allowed them to build accessible paths at Atsion Lake for those who typically can’t enjoy hiking. Our 2026 $100,000 grant to Cherry Hill Free Clinic, which provides free medical care for uninsured people throughout our area, will modernize front office capacity so patients can access services more easily by phone, text or web chat. In 2025, Joseph House of Camden was awarded $100,000 to give homeless people 24-hour shelter, which helps keep them on track toward recovery and financial security. Every single Impact100 South Jersey grant has an inspiring story behind it. The need in our region is staggering, so finding inspiration in the grants we’re awarding is easy. The hard part is not being able to fund every grant application we receive. AS: In your opinion, what are some of the greatest needs facing South Jersey nonprofits today, and how can community members help make a difference? KR: Giving back is always important, but I believe today’s greatest

need is the result of severely reduced funding for organizations serving our neighbors in need. Funding cuts have dramatically affected human services, environmental, and arts and culture organizations. Just pick your passion and make a much needed donation today! AS: What advice would you give to someone who wants to become more involved in philanthropy or volunteer work but isn't sure where to begin? KR: Many people have personal connections to causes to which they give or volunteer. The disease impacted someone close to them. Their kids are part of a program that needs volunteers or donations. Their town has an initiative that provides a chance to be part of something that matters. If nothing comes to mind, join a friend who volunteers or ask others what organizations they support. AS: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of philanthropy and community engagement in South Jersey? KR: There is a huge wealth transfer happening in South Jersey. I hope to see more families using this opportunity to leave legacies of generosity by setting up Donor Advised Funds with CFSJ or through another wealth manager so they can give in perpetuity. I’d also love to see more Impact100s or another collective giving model in the counties our chapter doesn’t fund. Our chapter serves Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Cumberland Counties. Atlantic, Cape May and Salem counties would benefit greatly from individuals joining forces to collectively support local organizations in a way that works for their unique community. A huge thanks to Kyle, for her work in South Jersey through philanthropy and community service. Her commitment to supporting local nonprofits and making a difference in the community is deeply appreciated. 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.

August 27, 2026

Winter weather can be tough on your home, but you don't have to face it alone. McAllister helps keep your home safe and protected through the coldest months by ensuring your heating system is ready to perform when you need it most helping protect your pipes from freezing and giving you greater peace of mind all season long. Don't wait until the temperatures drop. Schedule your heating tune-up today and be ready for whatever winter brings. We also offer full service plumbing!

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

$500 OFF Tankless or Standard

Hot Water Heater Install

$50 OFF

Any Repair Work 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 9/30/2026

$1,000 OFF Heating/Cooling System

$79 Heating Tune-Up

Restrictions apply. Must be presented at the time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Call for more details. Expires 9/30/2026

a new

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

Heating / Cooling Install & Repair

Ductless Systems

Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Generators

Preventative Maintenance Plans

FREE ESTIMATE FOR NEW INSTALL 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

Top Weekly Entertainment Picks Who: Wu-Tang Clan Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena When: Friday, August 28 Time: 8 p.m. Website: https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic- cit y/event- calendar/ wu-tang-forever-the-final-chamber Hip-hop legends Wu-Tang Clan bring their memorable sound to the Etess Arena stage this Friday. Hailing from Staten Island, the group helped shape East Coast rap and continue to influence generations of artists. Hear their classic tracks and high-energy performance for one night only.

By Steffen Klenk

ake the most of summer’s final weeks with an exciting lineup of entertainment across South Jersey. RÜFÜS DU SOL brings its highly anticipated tour to the Atlantic City beach, 1990s rock band Deep Blue Something takes the stage in Somers Point, and pop star Demi Lovato returns to the Shore. Find these events and more in this week’s Top Entertainment Picks. Who: Demi Lovato Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino When: Friday, August 28 Time: 9 p.m. Website: w w w.theoceanac.com/ enter tainment /headliners-summer-event/demi-lovato Get ready for an outstanding night of

hit songs with Grammy-nominated global superstar Demi Lovato. The renowned singer has captivated audiences with her phenomenal vocals, genre-defying hits, and electric

What: Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point Where: William Morrow Beach When: Fridays Time: 7 p.m. Website: www.concertsonthebeachinsomerspoint.com

stage presence. Audiences will hear her chart-topping favorites, including “Cool for the Summer” and “Sorry Not Sorry.”

NOW OPEN!

The Boo Bar Pop-Up — Witches Edition THE HAUNT IS ON!

SEPTEMBER 5 | NOON – 4PM BOARDWALK

HORSE SOLDIER DINNER

Light Bites & Stories of Service SEPTEMBER 9 | 6PM | $90 PP

INCLUDES A BOTTLE OF HORSE SOLDIER STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

LIVE MUSIC

Contests and prizes with Bacardi Ardi, face painting, free leis and more!

LIVE MUSIC BY PARROTBEACH NOON – 4PM

THE JIMMY BUFFETT TRIBUTE BAND

Coastal Views & Award-Winning Italian

OPEN THURSDAY – SUNDAY | FREE PARKING BUBBLES & BRUNCH | SUNDAYS | 9AM – 3PM

Rumours ATL — A Fleetwood Mac Tribute SEPTEMBER 18 | 9PM

LIVE MUSIC

MARGARITAVILLE CRUISE

SEPTEMBER 5 OR 6

DOUBLE COMPS Uptown Motown AUGUST 29 | 8PM

EARN 40 TIER POINTS DAY OF TO CLAIM! *STAR CARD REQUIRED

EXCLUSIVE PERKS:

VISIT RESORTSAC.COM FOR DETAILS 2026 FORD MUSTANG ECOBOOST® RWD FASTBACK & $25,000 SLOT CASH SWEEPSTAKES

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

Earn Double Comps All Summer Long

Earn Entries Through September 6 GRAND PRIZE DRAWING SEPTEMBER 6

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

Atlantic & Cape May County Residents Only!

August 27, 2026

the stage. Known for their electrifying performance and incredible musicianship, the group is defined as one of the world’s premier Michael Jackson tribute bands. Fans of all ages will sing, dance, and celebrate the songs that defined the late singer’s career.

Nothing says summer at the Jersey Shore like outdoor concerts on the beach, and Somers Point is the place to be for a stellar lineup of live music. This Friday will feature '90s alt-rockers Deep Blue Something, performing their most famous song “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” along with special guest Slow Hands performing a tribute to Eric Clapton. What: Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience Where: The Concert Venue at Harrah’s When: Friday, August 28 Time: 9 p.m. Website: w w w.visitatlanticcit y. com/event /whos-bad%3a-the - ultimate -michael-jack son- experience/7343/ Experience the music of the King of Pop come to life as Who’s Bad takes

August 27, 2026

Who: RÜFÜS DU SOL Where: Atlantic City Beach When: Saturday, August 29 Time: 7:30 p.m.

Website: www.ticketmaster.com/rufus-du-sol-north-america-2026 -atlantic-city-new-jersey- 08-29-2026/ event/02006450B0A29227 Grammy-winning electronic trio Rüfüs Du Sol brings their expansive summer tour to our shores. The group has become one of the most in-demand live acts across the country, bringing their immersive show to stadiums and well-known open-air venues throughout North America. Rufus Du Sol will perform with special guest Ben Bohmer.

Who: Air Supply Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena When: Saturday, August 29 Time: 8 p.m. Website: https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic- cit y/event- calendar/ air-supply-a-matter-of-time-tour

Legendary pop duo Air Supply returns to Atlantic City as they celebrate 50 years of chart-topping hits. Led by original members Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock, fans will hear an unforgettable performance of beloved classics along with new music from the band’s latest release "A Matter of Time."

Who: Jawn of the Dead Where: Anchor Rock Club When: Saturday, August 29 Time: 8 p.m. Website: www.anchorrockclub.com/ events-calendar Break out your tie-dye shirts and jam out to classic Grateful Dead melodies with Jawn of the Dead. The Philadelphia-based Dead tribute

↘Continued on 46

↘Continued from 45

artists and vocalists. On Sept. 1, Casey Abrams from "American Idol" will sit in with the No Vacancy Orchestra, and mark your calendars as the top qualifying contestants from Miss New Jersey perform.

band will bring heartfelt fan classics and impressive improvisation to this intimate shore town venue.

of art, music, dancing, and immersive attractions. Witness a Rocky Horror Cabaret performance, live mural painting, guest musical performances, and Twilight faire.

What: Lunar Faire Where: Atlantic County 4H Fairgrounds, Mays Landing When: Saturday, August 29 Time: 5 – 10 p.m. Website: www.lunarfaire.com As the moon rises, the Lunar Faire night market opens in Mays Landing. This traveling bi-monthly event brings thousands together for an evening

Who: Alabama Where: Borgata Event Center When: Sunday, August 30 Time: 8 p.m. Website: ht tps: //borgata.mgm r e s o r t s . c o m /e n /e n t e r t a i n , e n t / event-center/alabama.html Experience the musicianship and legendary sounds of Alabama live in concert this Sunday night. Audiences will be treated to an unforgettable evening of chart-topping classics and

fan favorites. Whether you are a devoted listener or are just discovering the band, this is a must-see concert experience. What: It’s Pure AC Where: Kennedy Plaza When: Tuesdays Time: 7 p.m. Website: www.itspureac. com You still have time to wit- Dave Damiani ness world-class music and entertainment on the world-famous Steffen Klenk is a photographer and Atlantic City Boardwalk. Dave Damultimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of miani & The No Vacancy Orchestra shore life. You may contact Steffen at present free weekly concerts, featuring an impressive lineup of talented shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.

August 27, 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

From Shakira to Phish, Atlantic City’s riding a non-casino entertainment wave

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.

The Casino File By Chuck Darrow

lobal pop monarch Shakira made but 12 stops on the recent U.S. leg of her current world tour (not including her World Cup appearance in San Jose, Calif.). Among the cities were such no-brainer locales as New York, Boston, Atlanta and Los Angeles. But also on the itinerary was Atlantic City. The “Whenever, Wherever” singer’s July 25 extravaganza at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall was hardly an outlier. Thanks to a three-pronged cooperative effort, Our Town has established itself as a destination for large-scale concerts, both at the historic, almost-14,000-seat auditorium and on the beach. Besides Shakira,

Phish hit Boardwalk Hall for what is expected to be three sold-out shows, while another major, similarly formatted unit, Goose, brings its beloved “Goosemas” rave-ups to the hall Dec. 11 and 12. Of course, having major acts come to town is hardly a novelty. After all, casinos have hosted countless topshelf attractions from Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. to David Bowie and Prince. Nor is Boardwalk Hall a stranger to big-name entertainment: Past decades have seen it visited by such immortals as Bruce Springsteen, Barbra Streisand and The Rolling Stones. But this time, the shows aren’t just one-offs. Instead, they are part of an unprecedented tourism-marketing strategy being jointly executed by three entities, Visit Atlantic City,

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

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

LIVE

THUR M USIC S&S AT Pop megastar Shakira performing at Boardwalk Hall. Atlantic City was one of just a dozen cities on the U.S. leg of her current 'Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran' tour. Photo credit: PhotoGraphics Photography

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

Journey — reportedly on its farewell tour — hit the massive Boardwalk Hall stage on May 23. Other 2026 bills have featured the likes of ’70s R&B favorites Tower of Power and WAR (April 3), classic soul titans The Spinners (April 23) and Jodeci, XSCAPE and Kenny Latimore (May 9). And the hits keep coming: This Saturday, top Electronic Dance Music attraction RUFUS DU SOL headline a sold-out beach concert that will draw 35,000 revelers. October 2-4, “jam band” giants

which oversees the town’s tourism efforts, Oak View Group, which manages entertainment venues (including Boardwalk Hall) around the world and concert-promotion behemoth Live Nation. “A year-and-a-half ago, Visit Atlantic City took on all marketing responsibilities. So that means leisure marketing, that means it's a different visitor that we focus on,” explained Gary Musich, Visit Atlantic City’s president and CEO. “We said, ‘Okay, we have to change

August 27, 2026

how entertainment's handled because that's a big part of what makes people come here, and [figure out] how to get visitors to stay an extra night. We stopped doing that, and Atlantic City was just meetings, trade shows and events. Now we have this leisure component. “So, [the challenge was] how do we change this? I'm going to point to collaboration because that's how you change this.” The next step, he continued, was to create a working partnership with Boardwalk Hall General Manager Jim McDonald. The two men and their respective organizations had worked together before, but what was new was a semi-formalized partnership that extended beyond specific events and instead focused on a much bigger picture. “Jim and I sat down and talked about what entertainment here looks like,” recalled Musich. “And it’s not just concerts. It’s other things. It's boxing matches. It's beach concerts. It’s ‘Disney on Ice’ [booked at Boardwalk Hall Nov. 6-8] It's all these different things that drive a diversified visitor to Atlantic City with different reasons to come. So that plan's been in place now for a year and a half.” While the beach plays a role in the marketing blueprint, the linchpin is Boardwalk Hall. According to McDon-

Iconic Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall is the key to marketing Atlantic City as an entertainment destination. Photo credit: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall ald, the lure for artists goes beyond the physical structure and its location in an East Coast leisure-time capital. “It’s the history,” he insisted. “A lot of the artists that come through here know the history of the building, know that it's been standing since the 1920s. And they want to play this unique venue. “Look at Shakira. She stopped at twelve venues throughout the United States. But she picked Atlantic City. She picked this building. And truth be told, when an artist has a great experience here at this venue, they go out

NO COVER $ 3 BEERS

and they amplify the message that we're pushing day in and day out.” History may be a powerful draw for an artist, but if those responsible for booking tours don’t know — or don’t believe in — the viability and credibility of a venue, all the history in the world is not going to matter. Live Nation, the other member of the triumvirate, is arguably the key player as it controls so much of the concert industry. And, thanks in large part to what Musich and McDonald have conjured, it is solidly with the program.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT BBQ FROM THE GRILL SUMMERTIME COCKTAILS

“We’ve had tremendous success delivering unparalleled experiences in Atlantic City over the years,” said Molly Warren, executive vice president of Live Nation Northeast. “We’re excited to partner with Visit Atlantic City to bring more great shows and unforgettable moments that give people new reasons to visit and enjoy the region.” As noted above, there’s a larger story to tell than just about a specific concert or two. As McDonald sees it, it’s about making the argument that AyCee can hold its own with any tourist destination on the East Coast and beyond. “I invite people that may have a negative perception about Atlantic City to come down to a show here, to have the experience that you get, not just [at Boardwalk Hall], but in that restaurant, in that hotel,” he offered. “And I think that this collaboration that Gary and I are talking about is specific to Boardwalk Hall, but it's really that everybody else is buying in and they're doing their part. “But Gary's organization is allowing [visitors] to see what else Atlantic City has to offer. And I'm here at this venue servicing [visitors] and servicing artists.” Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.

¡ ¢ ¥ § ¥ Ú ¦ £ ¥ ¥ § ¥ ¨ §

OPEN EVERY DAY AT 11AM (Weather permitting)

ENTER TAINM E

¦ §¨¥ ¬ ¦ £§ BEACHSIDE PART

SUMMER TIME COC

THE DISCOTEKS

DISCO 70’S TRIBUTE AUGUST 28

¥ ¡ ¥¢¢

¥ " %£

¢¢¥¦ § $£

§¥ ¨§ §¢ §¨¥ ¡ § ¥ ¦§ §¦ ¦ ¢ ¦ ¡ ¡ ¤¨ ¡ ¡ ¡¬ ¢¥ TICKETS STARTING AT $ 30

KTAILS

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW

HAPPY HOUR

¦¨¡ ¬ ¥ ¬ £ g "£ &£

MOST OFFERS. MOST REWARDS. MOST VALUE.

& £ © ¡ ¨ § ¡ § § ¬ ¡ % !

August 27, 2026

Atlantic City Headliners Thursday, August 27

Friday, September 4

▶ 8 p.m.

Magical Mystery Doors

Ricardo Montaner

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall Zarna Garg

Friday, August 28

▶ 9 p.m.

Squeeze w/ Adam Ant

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

▶ 8 p.m. Borgata Event Center Demi Lovato

▶ 7:30 p.m.

▶ 9 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Wu-Tang Clan

Saturday, September 5

▶ 8 p.m.

Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias

▶ 5 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Cooper Alan

Borgata Event Center ABBA Revisited

▶ 8 p.m. The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, August 29 Air Supply

▶ 8 p.m.

Photo credit: Gabriel Iglesias Facebook

Bally’s Grand Ballroom

Boat House Row

Friday, September 11

▶ 4 p.m. Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Collective Soul

▶ 8 p.m. Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Uptown Motown

▶ 8 p.m. Superstar Theater at Resorts

Sunday, August 30 Alabama

▶ 8 p.m. Borgata Event Center

John Fogerty and Steve Winwood

▶ 8 p.m.

Monday, August 31

Photo credit: Demi Lovato Facebook

Flow Tribe

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Justin Hayward

Saturday, September 12

▶ 7 p.m.

▶ 8 p.m.

▶ 7 p.m.

Wednesday, September 2

The Music Box at Borgata Atlantic City Jazz Fest

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Starship feat. Mickey Thomas

▶ 8 p.m.

▶ 7:30 p.m.

Love TKO: The Official Teddy Pendergrass Tribute

Sound Waves at Hard Rock Sonu Nigam

The Music Box at Borgata Atlantic City Jazz Fest

▶ 7 p.m.

▶ 8 p.m.

▶ 7 p.m.

Kennedy Plaza

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Dark Star Orchestra

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

August 27, 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. Ticket purchase required.

SEPTEMBER 17 - 20 SEPTEMBER 24 - 27

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.

OCTOBER 23

At Harrah’s, ‘Star Wars’ + burlesque = ‘The Empire Strips Back’ The Casino File By Chuck Darrow

hose seeking gaming-hall entertainment of a different stripe are directed to Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City this weekend and next as “The Empire Strips Back,” a saucy, high-energy presentation that pokes fun at the “Star Wars” film franchise continues its mini-residency at the bayside pleasure dome. “The Empire Strips Back,” which is billed as a “burlesque parody,” debuted Aug. 15, returned last Saturday and can be seen at The Concert Venue this Saturday and again on Sept. 4 and 5. According to its producer, the program is not easy to categorize. “It is a parody burlesque of the sort-of world of ‘Star Wars,’ offered David J. Foster in his unmistakably Australian accent from his home base of Las Vegas. “It's burlesque, although ‘burlesque’ has a sort of broad definition. It's not topless or nude or anything. It's a dance show; the key components of the show are dance and comedy.

“It’s a parody of ‘Star Wars’ that is expressed through dance and comedy. It's essentially a variety-show format. So, there's a host, a comedian and then there's each of the numbers. It's a very strange thing.”

Fos ter, who uses his middle initial to avoid being confused with the Grammy-glomming record producer of the same name, is not the show’s originator. “It was created by some other folks in Australia. I'm Australian, but I’ve lived in the States for almost

30 years. So, coincidentally, this was created by an Australian director. “He had a venue in Sydney, a small music venue. And they did a bunch of these shows. They did a ‘Game of Thrones’ one, they did a ‘Batman’ one, but it was the ‘Star Wars’ one that really popped.

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

August 27, 2026

“It’s a great story. It started in this tiny little 100-seat rock venue, and they refined it and refined it. And it just got bigger and bigger and soon they were playing like 1,000-seat theaters and touring Australia.” Ultimately, Foster continued, "TESB" made its way to these shores for a couple tours, and then its producer pulled the plug. “And then, about three years ago, myself and my co-producer licensed it. But they previously toured like a band would tour: One night here, one night there. We treat it like a theatrical show, like a Broadway show. So, we'll sit in a city for three months. And sometimes it'll only be a week [or a handful of performances as at Harrah’s], but we treat it like a theatrical production.” Anytime the word "burlesque" is applied to a production show, the question arises about its content — specifically, how far to the right on the raunch-o-meter the needle goes. But Foster advised that the more, shall we say, sensitive among us needn’t be concerned. “I think the good thing about this show is that it's very funny. It’s sexy, but never sleazy. And then you undercut that with some silly comedy stuff; those comic twists in the dance numbers really keep it from walking

across the line. It’s sexy, but it doesn’t cross those lines. So, it’s a very cool show.” For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.

Halloween comes early to Resorts The calendar says Halloween is still two months away, but the folks at Resorts Casino-Hotel say “Boo!” to that. By the time you read this, the Boo Bar: Witches Edition, a Halloween-themed pop-up saloon, will have

Photos by Tom Briglia/PhotoGraphics

returned to Bar One, which is located off the casino floor. Decorated in a witchy motif, Boo Bar will be scaring up a cauldron full of appropriately named cocktails, among them The Witch (Rum Haven, Blue Curacao, pineapple juice and Sprite), and The Warlock (Jose Cuervo, Blue Curaca, Green Apple syrup, sour mix and grenadine). Beginning at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12, the lounge will host the weekly “The Witches Dance,” for which patrons are encouraged to

come in witch/warlock costumes. In addition to drink specials, revelers will be taught what’s described as a “special group dance” that will be flash-mob-ized at the 5 O’clock Somewhere bar near the Boardwalk entrance. And in case your wardrobe doesn’t include a witch’s hat, you’ll be able to grab a free one at the bar (while supplies last). Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.

...When nothing else will do!!!

LaPizzatega

Restaurant & Pizzeria

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

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

August 27, 2026

653-8442 53

Cheers to Cabernet Sauvignon! Drink Up! By David Setley

ug. 30 is International Cabernet Sauvignon Day. Wine historians have determined that French winemakers in Bordeaux experimented with grapevine grafting with numerous varietals in the 1600s, resulting in what is now known as Cabernet Sauvignon. Over the next four centuries, this grape has traveled the world to vineyards on many continents and become one of the most recognized varietals the wine world has ever known. Although it was long assumed that Cabernet Sauvignon was created by grafting together Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, plant geneticist Carole Meredith, from the University of California in Davis, California, utilized DNA fingerprinting techniques in 1997 to confirm its heritage. Cabernet Sauvignon has its origins specifically in the Bordeaux wine region of France. In Bordeaux, red wine is traditionally blended. You may occasionally find single-varietal red wines there, but the vast majority are blends. This technique has become so associated with this region that winemakers far and wide refer to

their blended red wines as Bordeaux-style blends. In Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon is typically blended with Merlot, Malbec, Petite Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. As you likely have read in prior articles, the French believe that terroir – a combination of soil, climate, elevation, and winemaking tradition – is everything. Bordeaux is divided into the Right and Left Banks by the Garonne, Dordogne, and Gironde rivers. Both banks have continental climates, but the Left Bank has a much stronger maritime influence due to its nearer proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. This results in cooler summer temperatures than the Right Bank experiences. The soil of the Left Bank is composed of gravel, limestone, and clay. Having seen this firsthand on a trip a few years back, I would have thought this soil would be incapable of supporting vegetation, but it is perfect for growing Cabernet Sauvignon! The vines develop an incredible root structure that grows deep into the soil for nutrients and water. French winemakers would say that stressed vines produce grapes

~ ~

with more vibrant flavors, more balanced acidity, and smoother tannins. The Right Bank has less rocky, more fertile soil that is perfect for Merlot. So, why is Cabernet Sauvignon so popular, especially here in the United States? A report published earlier this year stated that the combined sales of rosé and white wines have now surpassed red wine. That said, among all wine drinkers in our country, Cabernet Sauvignon was the top pick, followed by Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Zinfandel. Cabernet Sauvignon has a flavor and texture that is well-suited to the American palate. Cab is dry and full-bodied, with smooth, rich tannins, mild acidity, and the robust flavor of dark fruit and notes of wood. This profile pairs well with the foods many Americans favor, including steak, barbecued meats, hamburgers, lamb, pizza, almost all Italian food with red sauce, meatloaf, beef stews, Yankee Pot Roast, cheesesteak sandwiches, and on, and on. It is extremely food-friendly with the traditional American diet. Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in nearly every major wine-producing country in the world. For recommendations, I’ll start in this wine’s homeland, France. Some French Bordeaux wines can be rather pricey, but the Chateau Haut Grignon-Medoc is an excellent, award-winning example of Left Bank, Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant wines at a very affordable price. Some moderately priced examples include the Chateau Carbonneau La Verriere, the Margaux Private Reserve and the Chateau Tourteran Cru Bourgeois Haut-Medoc. These wines are smooth and dry with plenty of dark fruit flavor. Notably, the tannins in these wines have a level of restraint that demonstrates the gravel soil and the mastery of centuries of winemaking in the region. The Cru Bourgeois is relatively new. It is an official quality classification for red wines from the Médoc region in Bordeaux and identifies high-value,

high-quality wines produced by estates for estates that were not included in the historic 1855 Grand Cru Classé system. The United States has become the home away from home for Cabernet Sauvignon, with California Cabs being the most famous. The Mediterranean climate of the Golden State is great for growing wine grapes with awesome terroir. The climate provides a long growing season, warm days, and cooler nights. The soil is rich in many of the minerals and nutrients that contribute to the wonderfully complex flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon. There are many famous Cali Cabs that have become names recognized by even the most casual wine lovers. These include Caymus, Stags Leap Artemis, and Quilt. Two fantastic, and more price-friendly examples for your consideration would be Brady Vineyards from Paso Robles and Stack House Vineyards from Sonoma. Quick note: while each of these wines only lists Cabernet Sauvignon on the label, all of them have other varietals blended in. California only requires a concentration of 75% to name the wine by that varietal alone. And finally, a few recommendations from areas you may not expect. From Washington State, try Chateau St. Michelle or Columbia Crest Cabernet Sauvignon. The Columbia Valley benefits from a maritime influence, much like the Left Bank of Bordeaux, providing moderate year-round temperatures in the Pacific Northwest. From South America, try the El Esteco Don David Cabernet Sauvignon or Fabre Montmayou from Argentina or the Chono Single Vineyard or Rayun from Chile. Cabernet Sauvignon truly deserves its designation as a noble grape. The noble grapes are those wine grapes that are widely planted throughout the world and produced into fine wine. The lists of noble grapes vary from as few as six to as many as eighteen, depending on the source, but one thing’s for certain: every list includes Cabernet Sauvignon. I hope you enjoyed this spotlight on Cabernet Sauvignon. As always, contact me with questions at dsetley@passionvines.com, or stop into the Somers Point store. Until next time, Happy Cabernet Sauvignon Day and happy wining! David Setley is enjoying his retirement from higher education as a wine educator and certified sommelier at Passion Vines in Somers Point, New Jersey.

August 27, 2026

Live & Local Music Calendar Thursday, August 27

Atlantic City Angeloni’s Club Madrid Bob Mower. 6 p.m. 2400 Arctic Ave. Landshark Bar & Grill Flannel and Lace 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 Triple Rail Turn 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Stealing Savannah 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy Paul Dempsey 6 – 9 p.m.

Photo credit: Stealing Savannah Facebook

JULY

NOLAN QUINN

JERSEY BEACH BOYS

AUG

GLENN ROBERTS

BOURBON TASTING DINNER

AUG

TRIBUTE SHOW - ticketed event

ticketed event

CHRIS YODER TRIO

YACHTZEE DUO

STEVE GITTO & JOE FAUNCE

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/

6629 Black Horse Pike Galloway Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Shaina Faith 4 – 9 p.m. 1 N. New York Rd. Linwood Fox Den at LCC Twisted Livin’ 6 – 10 p.m. 500 Shore Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Joey DeNoble 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Tideline Taylor Lenahan 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Karaoke Night w/ DJ Mike 8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Starr 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s NYC 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Phil Stocker 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Gregory’s Haley Daly 6 p.m. 800 Shore Rd. The Point Sensational Soul Cruisers 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Friday, August 28 Atlantic City Bally’s Beach Bar Special K

8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Borgata B Bar Isn’t it Always Trio 7:30 – 11 p.m. Ballistic Berry Trio 11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Landshark Bar & Grill DJ Ronnie D 1 – 7 p.m. DJ Actinup 7 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Dan Jost Duo 7 p.m. Gypsy Wisdom 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s DJ Philly Will 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Amy Faden Duo 6 – 10 p.m. M80 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget Goodman Fiske 8 – 11:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Who Brought the Dog 5 – 8:30 p.m. Steal the Sky 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Yard at Bally’s The Diskoteks 9 p.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Shot of Southern 6 – 10 p.m. DJ Pat Man 10 p.m. – close

August 27, 2026

Live Saxophone 7 – 10 p.m. 101 E. Maryland Ave. The Point Groove Heart 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Sweetwater Sweetwater Marina Tell All Your Friends 6 – 10 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Saturday, August 29

Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club Jawn of the Dead: Tribute to Grateful Dead

Photo credit: Goodman Fiske Facebook 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy Kelli Glover 6 – 9 p.m. 6629 Black Horse Pike The Roost Pub & Grill Steve Gitto & Joe Faunce 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 500 St. Andrews Dr. Galloway Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Zach Gitto 7 – 10 p.m. 1 N. New York Rd. Linwood Fox Den at LCC British Invasion 6 – 10 p.m. 500 Shore Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Steve Dee Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Memories Fat Mezz 8 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave.

8 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Bally’s Beach Bar Groove Operator 2 – 6 p.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Borgata B Bar Dan Jost Trio 7:30 – 11 p.m. Who Brought the Dog Trio 11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Landshark Bar & Grill DJ Culprit 1 – 7 p.m. DJ Weedies

↘Continued on 58

Tomatoes Gene Shepherd 6 – 9 p.m. 9300 Amherst Ave. Ventura’s Greenhouse Tiki Bar Steve Moore & Company 7 – 10 p.m. 106 S. Benson Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Animal House 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Ryptide 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Starr 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Maya & Nat 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Pablo DJ Lowski 6 – 10 p.m.

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

August 27, 2026

↘Continued from 57 7 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Patty & Bugzy 7 p.m. 3AM Tokyo 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s Tony Malandro 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Atley Moon & The Say Somethings 5 – 9 p.m. Incognito 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall No Clue Band. 7 p.m. 133 S. Tennessee Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget Synergy 2:30 – 6 p.m. Cheers the Band 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Grooveheart 5 – 8:30 p.m. The Benjamins 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino The Zone Trio

5:30 p.m. Ryan Tennis Duo 9 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Garden State Radio 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy Rob Birnhohm 6 – 9 p.m. 6629 Black Horse Pike Galloway Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Tom & Sara 7 – 10 p.m. 1 N. New York Rd. Linwood Fox Den at LCC Bryan McCloud 6 – 10 p.m. 500 Shore Rd. Margate Memories Split Decision 8 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave. Tideline Good Delivery 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Anger Management

Photo credit: Split Decision Facebook 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Dr. Phil & The Heart Attacks 4 – 8 p.m. Radio Revolution 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap NYC. 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Jazzmen 1 – 4 p.m. John Nistorenko 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Keegan McDevitt 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Pablo DJ Kurteousy 6 – 10 p.m. 101 E. Maryland Ave. The Point LeCompt 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Sweetwater Sweetwater Marina King Richard 6 – 10 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Sunday, August 30

Atlantic City Bally’s Beach Bar 3 Hour Tour 2 – 6 p.m. Jumper 6 – 10 p.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Landshark Bar & Grill DJ Slick 1 – 7 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Dueling Pianos

8 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Amy Faden Duo 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. 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 Gilligan 4 – 7:30 p.m. Out of Spite 8:30 – 11:30 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Incognito 1 – 5 p.m. LoveLace 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 Galloway 10th Hole at Pomona Brandon Ireland Duo 1 – 4 p.m. 400 W. Moss Mill Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Jack Mangene 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Lenahan Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Tideline Fin. 1 – 4 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Philly Keys

↘Continued on 60

August 27, 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 58 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Big Foot Band 4 – 8 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap The Budesa Brothers 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Doug Jennings 1 – 4 p.m. Chris Yoder 2 Broadway 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 Hickstown Road 2 – 6 p.m. 2780 7th Ave.

Monday, August 31

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

Tuesday, September 1

Atlantic City Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Patty and Bugzy 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget Hawkins Cove 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave.

Photo credit: The Exceptions Facebook

Atlantic City Landshark Bar & Grill Smokey Starr 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget CiBon 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 The Benderz 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Adam & Min Duo 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Somers Point Crab Trap Lew London & Bob Mower 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Jeff X 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway The Point Virus 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock DJ Johnny Looch 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris 7 – 9 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. The Point Joe Grasso 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Wednesday, September 2

Atlantic City Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Michael Stevens 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget Triple Rail Turn 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. Millville Levoy Theatre Big Bad Voodoo Daddy 7 p.m. 126-130 N. High St. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Open Mic Night w/ Blue Eagle 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Josie Kelly’s Jimmy Brogan 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Rob McMahon 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Events subject to change.

August 27, 2026

Brian Luo wins World Series of Poker Circuit Main Event in Atlantic City

Your Home Course At The Shore Just Minutes From Ocean City

rian Luo captured the World Series of Poker Circuit Main Event title at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City on Aug. 24, earning $189,145 and his second career WSOP Circuit ring. The Philadelphia native, who now lives in Madison, Wisconsin, outlasted a field of 698 entries in the $1,700 No-Limit Hold’em Main Event. The tournament generated a prize pool of $964,164. The victory marked the largest WSOP cash of Luo’s career. He won his first Circuit ring during an online Super Circuit event in 2022, collecting $4,667. Luo defeated Salvatore Evola in heads-up play to secure the Atlantic City championship. Evola received $126,067 for second place, while Yuriy Kudrynskyy earned $87,187 for finishing third. The Main Event concluded an 18-tournament series at Harrah’s, where several other players delivered notable performances. Joe McKeehen, the 2015 WSOP Main Event champion, won two tournaments during the series. He earned $37,439 in the $1,100 No-Limit Hold’em event and $39,929 in the $2,200 No-Limit Hold’em High Roller, collecting $77,368 in combined firstplace prize money. The victories raised McKeehen’s career total to six WSOP Circuit rings. He also holds three WSOP bracelets. New Jersey player Stephano Kim won the $500 No-Limit Hold’em Mini Main Event and its $71,546 top prize. The victory earned Kim his first WSOP Circuit ring and represented the second-largest first-place payout of the Atlantic City series. Other champions included Giuseppe Lomuscio, who earned $47,227 in the $400 No-Limit Hold’em Monster Stack; Richard Orr, who collected $28,644 in the $400 No-Limit Hold’em 40/40/40 event; and Thomas Bigosinski, who received $24,005 for winning the $400 Seniors Event. Each 2026 WSOP Circuit ring winner also received a $5,000 package to attend WSOP Paradise in

August 27, 2026

Golf Club

Finish A Round In Under 2 Hours the Bahamas. The package includes accommodations and entry into the 2026 WSOP Circuit Championship Mystery Bounty tournament. The promotion gives Circuit winners an opportunity to compete on an international stage for another major title. In 2025, qualifier Mark Darner won the $2,750 WSOP Circuit Championship No-Limit Hold’em Mystery Bounty at WSOP Paradise. He earned his second WSOP bracelet and the tournament’s $350,000 first-place prize. Main Event final table results ● Brian Luo — $189,145 ● Salvatore Evola — $126,067 ● Yuriy Kudrynskyy — $87,187 ● Brian Lombardi — $61,409 ● Michael Bohmerwald — $44,065 ● Patrick Martorella — $32,224 ● Raymund Uy — $24,025 ● Michael Lavin — $18,268 ● Jake Dynes — $14,172 The Atlantic City series included winners across several poker formats. Ilya Dyment won the $400 Limit Big O tournament, while Harry Pozefsky prevailed in the $600 Pot-Limit Omaha event. Sarah Wasch won the $400 Ladies Event. David Semless opened the series by winning the $400 No-Limit Hold’em Double Stack Opener. Anthony Farelli closed it with a victory in the $400 No-Limit Hold’em Double Stack Closer. Luo and the other Atlantic City champions will now have the chance to carry their success to the Bahamas and compete against fellow Circuit winners at WSOP Paradise.

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

Free Outdoor Concerts EHT Rhythm in the Park

▶ Thursday, August 27, 7 – 9 p.m. Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater at Tony Canale Park On Aug. 27, enjoy an evening of live music by Poor Mouth Henry as they take the Egg Harbor Township stage. It’s Pure AC Concert Series

▶ Tuesday, September 1, 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, "American Idol" finalist and viral sensation Casey Abrams brings his distinct, high-energy musical style to the Kennedy Plaza stage. Jazz on the Beach Concert Series

Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point

▶ Thursdays, 7 p.m.

▶ Friday, August 28, 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 Jenn Carn, along with local jazz by Gina Roche this Thursday, and mark your calendars as Bob Baldwin and Cason Jazz Express take the stage on Thursday, September 3.

William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue The Legacy Beach Concerts in Somers Point presents a double header of rock. Get ready for a set of 90s alt-rock by Deep Blue Something. The band came to fame with their hit song “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. Plus, Slow Hands presents a Tribute to Eric Clapton. Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk

▶ Monday, August 31, 7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City Join Tony Mart Presents for their weekly Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk concert series. This week, Flow Tribe

T.K.O. The Official Teddy Pendergrass Tribute. Hear the sensational sounds of the late R&B vocalist come to life. Visit www.tonymart.com for more information. Ventnor Goodbye to Summer Concert

▶ Saturday, September 5, 6:30 p.m. Ski Beach, Ventnor Mark your calendars for the final outdoor concert of the 2026 season in Ventnor. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy a spectacular evening of popular songs and favorites by The Usual Suspects. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.

Ventnor Summer Beach Jam Photos by Alex Corson brings an evening of New Orelans funk and jam to the stage. Visit www. tonymart.com for more information. Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk

▶ Wednesday, September 2, 7 p.m. Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City The Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk Concert Series concludes its 2026 season this Wednesday with Love

Ventnor Summer Beach Jam

▶ Saturday, August 29, 6:30 p.m. Newport Avenue Beach Join Ventnor City for their upcoming Beach Jam. Audiences will enjoy a night of party hits featuring South Jersey’s own Plaid Salmon. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.

August 27, 2026

Flow Tribe brings New Orleans sound to Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk Tune In, Turn On With Doug Deutsch

ew Orleans and Louisiana have produced generations of influential musicians, and several have performed at the Jersey Shore through concerts presented by Tony Mart’s Carmen and Nancy Marotta. Tab Benoit, Ivan Neville and Dumpstaphunk, Bonerama, George Porter Jr. and the Runnin’ Pardners, Soul Project NOLA, Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience, and John “Papa” Gros have appeared on the Atlantic City Boardwalk or in Somers Point this summer — all in free concerts. Flow Tribe will join that list when the New Orleans funk-rock band performs at Lundi Gras on the Boardwalk at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31. Formed in 2004, Flow Tribe

blends funk, rock, soul, R&B and other styles rooted in the city’s musical traditions. Tune In Turn On recently spoke with K.C. O’Rorke, the band’s vocalist and trumpet player, about its history, influences and future. Doug Deutsch: New Orleans has one of the country’s most celebrated music scenes. Where does Flow Tribe fit within the city’s musical heritage? K.C. O’Rorke: I think we see ourselves as part of the next chapter of that story. New Orleans has such a deep musical heritage, from jazz and brass bands to funk, soul, R&B, hiphop and everything in between. The beautiful thing is that the music here has never stayed in one lane. That melting-pot quality is a huge part of who Flow Tribe is. We’re not trying to recreate what came before us. We’re trying to take that New Orleans spirit — the groove, second-line energy and sense of

Cool Down This Summer at

Coupon expires 9-30-26

August 27, 2026

community — and push it forward in our own way. A lot of our music is about making people move and creating the feeling you get at a New Orleans parade or club show, where there is eventually no separation between the band and the audience. We feel lucky to have grown up here and learned from the musicians who came before us. Being part of that heritage means respecting the history while adding our own piece to it. Hopefully, years from now, somebody hears a Flow Tribe song and says, “Yeah, that’s New Orleans.” That would mean we did our job. Deutsch: How did Flow Tribe first come together? O’Rorke: It started organically. A bunch of us were friends at Brother Martin High School in New Orleans, and we would hang out after school and jam. We weren’t thinking about building a professional band. We were young guys who loved music and playing together. Then graduation happened, and everybody scattered to colleges and different parts of the country. We figured that was probably the end of it. Then Hurricane Katrina happened. We all returned to New Orleans to help our families and community rebuild. Seeing the city go through that made us realize how much New

Orleans — and its music dio, at festivals, in clubs and and culture — meant to us. at backyard parties, and it becomes part of how you We started playing together again, and it quickly understand rhythm. became more than someThen you add rock, R&B, Latin music, hip-hop thing fun to do. It felt like and whatever else you are a way to contribute to the rebuilding and bring some listening to, and it all comes energy and joy back to the out in the gumbo. That is the Flow Tribe philosophy. city. Our primary influences Deutsch: Which musiinclude Allen Toussaint, cians have influenced Flow Dr. John and Earth, Wind Tribe? O’Rorke: There are & Fire. many, and I think that is Deutsch: What can lispart of what makes Flow teners expect from your Tribe sound like Flow Tribe. New Orleans jam band Flow Tribe to perform at Lundi Gras on the latest recordings? We’ve never been a band Boardwalk Monday, August 31. O’Rorke: We are releasthat lives in one musical ing singles from our new box. New Orleans itself is probably Outside New Orleans, our influlive album, “Unleashed,” over the next our biggest influence, but so many ences include James Brown, Sly and few months. It was recorded at the the Family Stone, Parliament-Funkartists have shaped us. 2026 French Quarter Festival. The Meters are a major influence. adelic, Earth, Wind & Fire, and classic Deutsch: Where do you envision That deep New Orleans funk is in our soul and funk. Hip-hop also became Flow Tribe five years from now? DNA. Dr. John is another. We love his an important part of our musical O’Rorke: We hope to continue combination of funk, soul and blues, bringing our music to every corner upbringing. along with his unmistakable New of the globe. Spreading joy and conWorking with rapper and producOrleans personality. er Mannie Fresh on the single “Like necting through music is our ultimate a Boss” was especially meaningful George Porter Jr. and the Neville goal. because his music was part of the Brothers are also major influences. Doug is the owner/operator of soundtrack of growing up in New They showed us how powerful a Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing groove can be without making it overOrleans. nationally touring acts, and working ly complicated. Seeing Dr. John or We don’t sit down and say, “Let’s record release campaigns for clients. George Porter Jr. at the Maple Leaf sound like the Meters.” It is more Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalshowed us what New Orleans music subconscious. You grow up in New Orleans hearing this music on the rais supposed to feel like. Doug@gmail.com

August 27, 2026

Big flavor in Margate: A dinner at Miyako Sushi & Steakhouse By Holly Martin

argate is filled with plenty of great places to grab a bite, but just down the street from the legendary Lucy the Elephant is a restaurant that brings together fresh Japanese cuisine, hibachi entertainment, and plenty of flavor: Miyako Sushi & Steakhouse. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, noodles, hibachi, seafood, or a classic Japanese appetizer, there are plenty of choices to explore. There are also plenty of beverages to choose from, including cocktails, Ramune Japanese soda, and a classic Shirley Temple. With so many tempting choices, deciding what to order wasn’t easy. Hibachi is always a great choice for good food and a unique show. There’s something entertaining about watching your food being prepared right in front of you with big fires and fun commentary, making dinner feel like more than just a meal. It’s a great option for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to make an ordinary

night out a little more memorable. We settled on edamame, the chicken hibachi dinner entrée, and chicken yakisoba noodles. Our meal started with a simple but delicious side salad topped with a flavorful ginger dressing. It was a refreshing way to kick off the meal while we waited for our appetizers and entrées. Not long after, the edamame arrived piping hot and generously sprinkled with salt. It was the perfect ap-

petizer to share and one of those simple dishes that keeps you reaching for just one more handful. Before we could finish the edamame, our entrées began arriving at the table. The chicken hibachi was a standout. The chicken and shrimp were cooked perfectly and packed with

plates of food. There was plenty to eat, and the portions made it easy to see why Miyako is a popular choice for a full dinner rather than simply a quick bite. With so many restaurants lining the busy streets of Margate, choosing where to eat can be difficult. But if you’re looking for dinner with a little

flavor, while the fried rice had just the right texture and seasoning. The plate was also loaded with a generous portion of vegetables, making for a hearty and satisfying meal. The chicken yakisoba was equally impressive. Served on a large plate, the noodles were piled high with tender chicken and plenty of vegetables. It was a filling dish with the savory flavors you expect from a classic yakisoba. What stood out most during our visit was how quickly the meal came together. We were able to enjoy our appetizer while watching the restaurant's activity around us, and before long, the table was filled with colorful

entertainment, Miyako Sushi & Steakhouse is worth a visit. The restaurant may be cozy in size, but the flavors are anything but small. With Japanese favorites, hibachi cooking, sushi, and a menu filled with choices, Miyako brings an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine to the heart of Margate, just a short trip from Lucy the Elephant. Holly Martin has been immersed in the media world since 2012, building a dynamic and versatile career that spans nearly every corner of the industry. She has also hosted as a DJ and created the blog SNJ Sober Party Girl. She enjoys sharing stories that inspire connection and community.

August 27, 2026

Preparing for divorce financially This is the most important advice I can give you. A good divorce attorney is essential, but so is having a financial professional in your corner, whether that's your advisor, a CPA, or an estate attorney. The legal and financial sides are deeply connected, and having someone who can model out what a proposed settlement actually looks like 10 years down the road can be the difference between a fair outcome and a costly one. The money you spend on good advice here is almost always money well spent.

By T. Eric Reich

obody gets married planning to get divorced. But the sad reality is that a lot of marriages end that way, and when they do, the financial side is often the part people are least prepared for. Emotions are running high, big decisions are being made quickly, and the choices you make during a divorce can follow you for decades. This week, let's set the emotions aside for a moment and talk about how to protect yourself financially if you find yourself heading down this road. This isn't about being cold or calculating; it's about making sure you land on solid ground. The first step, before anything else, is to get a complete picture of your financial life. In other words, know exactly what you own and what you owe. That means gathering statements for every account: bank accounts, retirement accounts, brokerage accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and loans. You'd be surprised how many people, especially in marriages where one spouse had handled all the finances, have no real idea what the household actually owns or owes. You can't divide what you can't see. Make copies of everything, including tax returns going back a few years, and keep them somewhere safe and separate. When people think about splitting things up, they picture the house and the bank accounts. But some of the most valuable assets in a marriage are the ones nobody talks about, such as retirement plans, pensions, stock options, and a business, if one exists. A pension or a 401(k) built up over a

25-year marriage can be worth far more than the house. Dividing these correctly often requires special paperwork, like a QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order) for retirement plans, and getting it wrong can be an expensive mistake. This is not the place to guess. Once divorce is on the table, you'll want to start establishing some financial independence. Open a checking and savings account in your own name, and if you don't have credit in your own name, start building it. Far too often, one spouse comes out of a divorce with no individual credit history, which makes renting an apartment or buying a car surprisingly difficult. You want to walk into your new life able to stand on your own two feet financially, and that takes a little groundwork. The family home deserves special mention, since it's where emotion and money collide the hardest. In my opinion, this is where I see people make the biggest mistakes. Fighting to

keep a house you can't actually afford on one income is a recipe for trouble. A house comes with a mortgage, taxes, insurance, and upkeep, and what had felt manageable on two incomes can quickly become a burden on one. Don't let an emotional attachment to a home lead you into a financial decision you'll regret. Sometimes the smartest, and hardest, choice can be to let it go. Once the divorce is final, you need to make sure you update everything. This is the step people forget. You need to update the beneficiaries on your retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and anything else that passes by beneficiary designation. I've seen cases where an ex-spouse remained the named beneficiary years after the divorce, and that designation generally overrides whatever the will says. Update your estate documents and your account titling so your money ends up where you actually want it to go. Lastly, don’t try to do this alone.

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 68

August 27, 2026

Buying a home? Start with your lender By Mary Rodgers

crolling through online listings is exciting. Touring open houses is even better. But before falling in love with a home, it's important to understand what you can comfortably afford and which loan programs fit your financial situation. The first step should be a conversation with your lender. That discussion helps establish a realistic budget, identify financing options, and determine a monthly payment that fits your lifestyle before you begin searching for a home. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, looking for a larger home, relocating, purchasing a vacation property, or investing in real estate, every homebuying journey begins the same way: by understanding your financial goals and creating a plan. That starts with the pre-qualification process. You'll provide information about your income, assets, employment, debt, and credit history so your lender can evaluate your borrowing power and available loan options. Providing complete and accurate information from the start is essential because outdated or in-

August 27, 2026

complete details can affect loan eligibility, monthly payments, or financing programs later in the process. Many buyers assume they need a 20% down payment to purchase a home, but that isn't always the case. Qualified buyers may be able to purchase a primary residence with as little as 3% down. In addition, New Jersey offers assistance programs for many first-time homebuyers, and additional county- and employer-specific programs may also be available. Working with a knowledgeable lender can help you identify opportunities you may not realize exist and determine which options best fit your financial situation. Another important consideration is the property itself. While single-family homes are generally the most straightforward to finance, condominiums require lenders to evaluate both the buyer and the condominium association. Financial reserves, insurance coverage, owner occupancy, and even pending litigation can all affect financing eligibility. As a result, two buyers with identical financial qualifications could receive different loan approvals depending on the property they choose. Technology has also transformed

Mary Rodgers, Loan Officer with Union Home Mortgage the mortgage process. Automated underwriting and AI-powered verification tools now allow many traditional W-2 borrowers to receive approvals almost immediately. Electronic document verification, digital signatures, and online loan tracking simplify the experience and keep buyers informed throughout the process. In some cases, loans can close in as little as 10 to 14 days. While higher interest rates have

caused some buyers to pause their home search, it's important to remember that interest rates change over time and refinancing may be an option in the future if rates decline. Rather than focusing solely on the interest rate, buyers should consider whether the monthly payment comfortably fits their budget and longterm financial goals. Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. Clear communication, regular updates, and having someone available to answer questions throughout the process can make what feels overwhelming much less stressful. The home search becomes much more enjoyable when it begins with a conversation instead of a house listing. Knowing what you can afford, and understanding the financing options available, helps put you in the best position to find the right home with confidence. To learn more or begin the pre-qualification process, contact Mary Rodgers, Loan Officer with Union Home Mortgage, at (609) 5014296, email mrodgers@uhm.com. Mary is located at 2111 New Road, Suite 106, Northfield, NJ

Garden tasks for late summer By Tammy Thornton

ummer always seems to slip away all too fast. Just when we have time to catch our breath and enjoy the beach and our gardens, we find ourselves in late August and wonder where the time has gone. Fortunately, we have plenty of warm days ahead to look forward to, including locals summer. While it is a little early to jump into major fall gardening projects, August is a good time to assess your garden and take care of small tasks. This will enable you to have a smooth transition when you ease into maintaining the fall garden. Depending on which types of plants you are growing, you can use this time to tame out-of-control plants. For me, late August means that some plants have gotten too big for their britches and need to be pruned. You don’t want to do this at the peak of summer during a heat wave, because, when temperatures are extreme, your plants are in survival mode and you don’t want to give them added stress. But once extreme temperatures have passed, consider pruning plants, such as roses, that bloomed in early summer. You may

have no sign of coming back get a second flush of flowers to life, remove the plants, once your plant has bounced clean up the area, and make back from pruning. Do not early preparations for the prune plants like lilacs, befall garden. Add fresh soil or cause you will be cutting off compost, and you will have a next year’s buds. However, if healthy spot ready for new you have any plants that are damaged or diseased, you plants in the fall. should always prune away Late summer is also a these parts regardless of the time for dreaming and shoptype of plant. When a plant ping. While it is too warm to has some type of damage, it plant spring-blooming bulbs will try to heal itself, which such as tulips, daffodils, and draws valuable energy from alliums, it is the perfect time the entire plant. Removing to dream about your spring these bad sections can help garden. Make a plan, and start shopping. You’ll want the plant regain health, which to place your orders for will help it survive winter. these fall-planted bulbs soon, In addition to pruning, because the most popular continue to deadhead spent flower bulbs sell out quickly, flowers to get the maximum and it can take several weeks bloom from your flowering or months for your bulbs to plants. You can also encourarrive once your order is age the growth of your herbs by giving them a haircut. But placed. deadheading and trimming Last of all, savor these come with a caveat. If you last few weeks of summer. like to save seeds, you will Take time to enjoy the late summer garden and you may spy Take time to enjoy all the want to leave some of the black swallowtails on flowers like garden phlox. hard work that you have put flower heads of late suminto your garden. Stroll along the paths, brush your hand over your mer on the plant until they fully turn herbs. Once they have fully dried, brown and dry out so that they can remove the seed heads to store for lavender and rosemary, and indulge in produce seeds. This also applies to next year. Some good candidates for a fresh-picked cherry tomato. Sitting saving seeds are marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, cilantro, and dill. Leave a few seed heads on the plants for our feathered friends. Birds love to pick at the seeds of coneflowers, zinnias, sunflowers, and tall verbena (Verbena bonariensis). Stay on top of harvesting your vegetables. In the same way that deadheading flowers encourages blooms, harvesting your tomatoes, cucumbers, and zucchini will cause them to produce more vegetables, helping you maximize your yield before the first frost. At this point in the season, some of your plants may have given up the ghost. This doesn’t mean that you failed. Certain plants can live a full life but then shrivel up and fade away by the end of Pruning your roses could reward you with a fresh summer. However, you may flush of flowers. want to use this time to asstill near your garden will help you sess which plants thrived and which see the things that others miss, like ones were not worth the investment a hummingbird testing the flowers, in your garden. Each garden is unique, or a black swallowtail sampling the and each gardener has different phlox. These are the moments that goals. If you have a very shady garden, you may need to consider plants refresh the soul. that don’t need full sun. If your plants Tammy Thornton lives with her were fried by early summer, you may husband, children, and crazy pets want to plant heat-resistant varieties while enjoying a life of gardening, next year. If you do have plants that cooking, and going to the beach.

August 27, 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

What to do when your dog eats a sock ingested the foreign object, it may be too late for them to vomit it back up, and you should take them to the vet to see exactly where the object is in their digestive tract. If your dog has swallowed something poisonous, you should not leap to induce vomiting, but call your vet or poison control first to make sure that inducing vomit

By Heidi Clayton

ore than once I have fielded panicked phone calls from clients whose dogs have eaten inedible things ranging from socks, gloves, and underwear to chocolate or human heart medication. And more than once I have had to induce vomiting in my own dogs, who engaged in dietary indiscretions of the same nature. While it is possible to induce vomiting in a dog on your own, here are a few considerations before you try. First of all, be very certain that your dog did in fact swallow something before you try to induce vomiting. Secondly, and most importantly, do not panic. If you are at all uncertain that you will be able to remain calm and have a steady hand, do not attempt this at home and take your dog to a veterinarian. In fact, you should always at least call your vet when you are going to induce vomiting, if you have never done it before. Before you induce vomiting, If your dog has swallowed something poisonous, you some considerations are what and when your dog ate. If it has been should not leap to induce vomiting, but call your vet or over two hours since your dog poison control first.

on your own is enough for treatment. Dogs who have eaten batteries or medication, which is something that has happened to many of my clients, may need an absorber of some sort at the vet in addition to vomiting being induced. I recently tried to induce vomiting in a four-month-old bernadoodle mix, who went absolutely feral. I knew there was no way I was going to be able to get the dose into his mouth safely and told his owners he would need to visit the veterinary ER, where they would have more hands on deck to contain him and get the dose safely into him. Again, if you are nervous with a shaky hand or your dog is in a panic, it is best to allow someone else to do this. Hopefully, you never have to induce vomiting because your dog

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

has eaten something foolish, but it doesn’t hurt to be familiar with how to do it yourself if you have to! For more detailed instructions on how to induce vomiting in a dog, be sure to consult a professional who handles dog emergencies regularly, such as a veterinarian. Unfortunately, I’ve had to learn this skill, so I can also provide more specific step-by-step advice if needed. 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

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 27, 2026

Weekly Horoscopes The Cosmic Connection By Ursula Duffy

Rising sign horoscopes for Aug. 27 – Sept. 2 Aries: The vibration you hold within your body is the vibration you project out into the world. Tune up and watch for that which you attract to tune up in return. Like entices like. Taurus: One of those rare opportunities to adjust the course of your life’s path is arriving. Remember the adage “don’t look a gift horse in the mouth” and welcome infinite possibilities. Gemini: When the going gets tough in the outside world, there’s a multitude of ways to respond. Take a beat and a breath, and remember the divine thread connecting everyone is love. Cancer: How are you feeling, Cancer? If the answer is anything but fantastic, then it’s time for some relief from the mental exhaustion. Devote your energy to turning your light back on. Leo: Lions and lionesses are the kings and queens of the proverbial jungle for a reason. Examine the energy exchange in your relationships and call back your power where necessary. Virgo: Your closest relationships have been a very focused classroom for you for a while. Whatever remains to be learned will surface in perfect timing as a final exam about yourself. Libra: It’s easy to be on autopilot amidst daily routines. Be intentional about noticing the beauty and magic that surround you every day. More lively presence invites more

Let Progressive Help You!

vitality. Scorpio: Whether you’ve created life itself or you’re a creative, a relationship to what you’ve birthed into the world exists. Compassion is important when the relationship’s lessons arise. Sagittarius: Your reputation, your friends and partners, and your domicile are all simultaneously tugging you. Find balance and solace through connecting with your own divinity. Capricorn: Whenever you start sensing feelings of loneliness, it’s important to remember that you are never alone. Life cannot exist in a vacuum, and you are always surrounded by love. Aquarius: Some of life’s greatest gifts come through some of life’s greatest challenges. Reflect on this, and remember to count your blessings and that the universe has your back.

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

August 27, 2026

Pisces: Be present in your body and aware of all the magic within you. You are a well of vast depth and emotion. The light shines upon what you cannot see to show that you are the light.

Weekly astrology summary: Get ready to embark on a journey into the imaginal realm this week! Mercury will receive retroactive gratitude for helping us keep track of and document the details of the experience as the messenger planet holds council with the sun throughout the week’s cosmic events. Mercury blazed through the zodiac sign Leo and grounded into Virgo on Aug. 26. The midpoint of Mercury’s current cycle will be reached on Aug. 27; reflect on what was getting stirred up in your mind and heart in mid-July. Memories from that time will help process and make sense of what may surface and is maturing this week.

The surfacing relates to the incoming Pisces full moon/partial lunar eclipse that will crest on Friday, Aug. 28 at 12:18 am. This full moon will push and blur boundaries and cause the imaginal to feel a little stranger as the opposition between the sun/ Mercury in Virgo and the full moon in Pisces will be challenged by unusual, yet thought-provoking Uranus Gemini. Pisces is transcendence itself and holds the energy of some of life’s greatest ponderings and unknowns. Full moons usually bring things to the surface, especially when there’s also an eclipse. Expect the unexpected and the weird leading up to and throughout the weekend. If eclipse viewing is your thing, you’re in luck! This eclipse will be almost total and visible here in southern New Jersey. Find more details, viewing times, and tips on timeanddate.com (be sure to set your location). As the week and the month close out, we’ll have some assistance and fiery motivation to bring something from the imaginal into fruition as expansive Jupiter and responsible Saturn connect harmoniously. This week’s horoscopes are focused on the Pisces full moon/ eclipse; see the above horoscope for your rising sign for more specific insight and guidance. If you’re unsure what your rising sign is, you can email me at ursaalchemy@gmail.com, learn more in my tutorial video on my Ursa Alchemy YouTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com. Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, Certified Aromatherapist and founder of Ursa Alchemy. 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

Can women really have it all? Maybe we need to redefine what that means By Rachel King

or generations, women have been told we can “have it all”: the career, family, financial independence, a successful marriage, a healthy lifestyle and a perfectly managed home. There is just one problem: No one really taught us how to balance it all. That was one of my biggest takeaways from Episode 2 of the “Lift & Glitz Podcast,” when I sat down with my cousin, Jordan Teichman. Jordan is a vice president and certified financial planner who has built a successful career in finance while also navigating marriage, motherhood and everything that comes with creating a life beyond work. Although our careers look very different, our conversation made me realize how similar our experiences as working women are. We both grew up surrounded by strong women — women who worked hard, cared for their families, supported others and figured things out along the way. But as Jordan and I talked, we acknowledged something

important: We were never really taught how to balance a career and a family. Honestly, I am still learning. Women can place tremendous pressure on themselves to succeed in every part of their lives at the same time. We want to be present as mothers and wives while continuing to pursue our professional goals. We want to care for our health, maintain friendships, manage our homes, build financial security and somehow still

find time for ourselves. When one area receives more attention, another can feel neglected. That does not mean we are doing it wrong. Maybe balance is not about giving everything equal attention every day. Perhaps it is about recognizing what needs us most during a particular season of life. Our conversation also touched on something more women need to feel comfortable discussing: money.

Jordan has built her career around helping families understand their finances, identify their goals and plan for the future. Women should be active participants in those conversations. Understanding your finances, asking questions and knowing where you stand are not just about money. They are essential to building independence and confidence. What I appreciated most about the episode was that neither of us pretended to have everything figured out. We are two women with careers we are proud of, families we love and goals we continue to pursue. Like so many others, we are learning as we go. Maybe “having it all” was never supposed to mean doing everything perfectly. Maybe it simply means building a life that feels like your own. Episode 2 of the “Lift & Glitz Podcast” is available on YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Rachel King is the owner and operator of Lift & Glitz Training Studio in Northfield.

August 27, 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

Dolly left her mark

n May 1981, Dolly Parton performed an extended concert engagement at Resorts International. Coming right off the massive success of her December 1980 film and chart-topping single "9 to 5," the major Hollywood and pop-country superstar packed the 1500 seat Superstar Theater for five days in May. During her multi-day stint, Dolly participated in the casino's "Entrance of the Stars" tradition. She left her signature and

famously small handprints pressed into a concrete block. It remains today.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

August 27, 2026

Obituaries

Anthony Della Vecchia

Anthony Della Vecchia, 93, passed away on August 16, 2026, in Galloway Township with his family by his side following a life marked by devotion, generosity, and steadfast love. He was born on June 7, 1933, in Egg Harbor City, where he spent his formative years and built the strong foundation of character that would guide him throughout his life. Anthony was the son of the late Arthur Della Vecchia and the late Matilda “Tillie” Della Vecchia, and he was also predeceased by his beloved wife, Babe Della Vecchia, formerly Delphine Dreager, as well as his sister Louise Tewell and his aunt Annie Kopf. Anthony graduated from Egg Harbor City High School with the Class of 1952, where he distinguished himself as an exceptional student-athlete. He earned varsity letters all four years in football, baseball, and basketball, and in 1952 he was voted Outstanding Football Player of the Year. He was also voted “Best Dressed” in his senior year, a distinction that helped capture the attention of the young woman who would become the love of his life. Anthony and Babe were married for 65 years, and their marriage stood as a lasting example of loyalty, devotion, and deep affection. Anthony served honorably in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 stationed in Nelligen Germany. He befriended and became lifelong friends with the Hans Steidle family while stationed in Germany. That friendship remained strong throughout all the years after Anthony's service, especially around Christmas. Anthony devoted 40 years of service to the

Adam Stanley Miklovis

November 14, 1936 -August 17, 2026 Galloway, New Jersey Adam Stanley Miklovis, 89, a retired U.S. Navy Captain, passed away peacefully at his home in Galloway, New Jersey. Adam was a proud first-generation Lithuanian American, born in Philadelphia to Tony and Nellie Miklovis. He attended Northeast Catholic High School and went on to study engineering at the Drexel Institute of Technology. His passion

August 27, 2026

Federal Government at NAFEC/FAA in Pomona, New Jersey. He was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and quiet professionalism. In addition to his government service, he was the owner of the Liberty Beer Garden in Egg Harbor City, a family business that remained in the family from August 1939 through 1989. Anthony took great pride in caring for his family and, with remarkable tenderness and consistency, looked after his mother Tillie and his aunt Annie Kopf every day for the rest of their lives. A Catholic man, Anthony lived his faith through his actions and the way he treated others. He was kind, thoughtful, and selfless, and those qualities were evident in every part of his life. He was deeply committed to his community, loved living in Egg Harbor City, and was a member of several organizations, including Goodfellows, the American Legion Rudolph Elmer Post 158, the VFW, the Knights of Columbus Council No. 3500, and Kickapoo Tribe No. 237 of Egg Harbor City. Anthony had a lifelong love of sports and a special gift for coaching young people. He served as an Atlantic County Youth Football League coach with the Egg Harbor Crusaders and coached basketball for many years at St. Nick’s Grammar School in Egg Harbor City. He especially valued the friendship and loyal support of Father Neal Dante during the many successful years of CYO basketball at St. Nick’s. His greatest goal as a coach was to teach young people that sportsmanship comes first, and he took great joy in watching many of his former players grow into successful adults. Anthony is survived by his son, Tony Della Vecchia and his wife Charlotte, his daughters Kathy Ford and her husband Ed, and Donna Romanelli. He also leaves behind seven adoring grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom will carry forward his memory with love and pride. Dad is also survived by his best friend and "Partner in Crime" Rich Senese. Anthony will be remembered for his devotion to family, his dedication to his community, and the example he set through a lifetime of hard work, humility, and care for others. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and quiet generosity that will continue to inspire all who knew him. And as Dad would say ...... "Don't let the door hit ya !" Anthony's service was held at Saint Nicholas Church, 525 St Louis Avenue, Egg Harbor City NJ on Saturday August 22, 2026. Entombment followed at Egg Harbor City Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, or to the charity of your choice

Clare Alcamo

Clare E. Alcamo, a friendly, faith-filled, and selfless woman, was born on February 12, 1939, in Somerville, New Jersey, and she passed away on August 16, 2026, in Galloway, New Jersey. Clare lived a life marked by devotion to God, love of family, and quiet acts of kindness that touched everyone around her. She was a Christian whose faith guided the way she cared for others, welcomed friends, and carried herself with grace. She attended Bound Brook High School and later built a long and dedicated career as an executive secretary for Ortho Pharmaceutical a subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson, where she served faithfully for 26 years before retiring. Her work ethic, dependability, and warm personality earned the respect of those who knew her professionally, and she was admired for the pride she took in doing her work well. Family was at the center of Clare’s life, and she treasured the bonds she shared with those she loved. She was preceded in death by her father, Maurizio Porto, her mother, Genueffa Porto, her husband, John Alcamo, her sisters Ellen Lombardi and Laura Velinsky, and her brother Guy Porto. She leaves behind cherished family members including her sister Jeanne Cassara, her brotherin-law Jimmy Cassara, her niece Janine Buckner, her nephew Jimmy Cassara, her son Paul Winkworth, her daughters-in-law Marcela Winkworth

and Sarah Winkworth, her granddaughter Rachel Winkworth, her grandson-in-law Kevin Cabana, her great-grandson Kevin Cabana Jr., her great-granddaughter Raelynn Cabana, her granddaughter Taylor Declement, her grandson Dean Winkworth, her nephew Robert Counts, and his wife Phyllis Counts. Each of them carries forward a part of the love, strength, and example she shared so generously throughout her life. Clare found great joy in the simple and meaningful rhythms of home and family life. She loved cooking and hosting dinner for her family and loved ones, and her table was a place where people felt welcomed, nourished, and cared for. She was known for always cleaning her house until it was spotless, reflecting the pride she took in her home and the comfort she created for those who entered it. She also loved jazz music and enjoyed going to hear her husband and grandson play the drums, cherishing those moments of music, companionship, and shared happiness. Her faith was not only something she believed, but something she lived. For 25 years, Clare was devoted to Beacon Church, where she served as head greeter and organized the people who welcomed churchgoers at the door. She understood the importance of greeting others with kindness and making them feel seen, valued, and at peace as they entered the house of the Lord. Her service to the church was an extension of her heart, and it reflected the warmth and generosity that defined her life. Those who knew Clare will remember her as a woman who gave of herself freely and who made others feel loved through her words, her actions, and her steady presence. She was a blessing to her family, her church, her coworkers, and her community. Her life was a beautiful witness to faith, humility, and devotion, and she leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Though her earthly journey has ended, Clare’s memory remains a source of comfort and gratitude. She lived with purpose, served with joy, and loved with an open heart. In the sure hope of the Christian faith, her loved ones trust that she now rests in the eternal peace of her Lord and Savior. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Beacon Evangelical Free Church- https://www. beaconefc.org/give or But God Ministries- https:// www.butgodministries.com/donate. A gathering of friends and family was held on Monday August 24th at Beacon Evangelical Free Church in Galloway.

for photography and his commitment to serving his country led him to Officer Candidate School and, ultimately, to a distinguished career in Naval Intelligence. During his military career, Adam served aboard the USS Intrepid and USS Forrestal and was a member of Squadron VFP-62. Throughout his professional life, he worked in the defense industry while continuing to serve actively in the Naval Reserve. His dedication, intelligence, and strong sense of duty were hallmarks of both his military and civilian careers. In his retirement, he was active with the Civil Air Patrol, and as an officer with his local Veteran’s group. Above all, Adam was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Dee Miklovis; his three children, Chris (Jim Whitford), John (Nancy), and Amy Boyle (David); seven grandchildren; two step-sons, Scott Scholes (Tammy), David Scholes (Karen); four step-grandchildren; and his cousin, Edward Kazikaitis. His grandchildren and step-grandchildren brought him tremendous pride and joy. Adam will be remembered for his quiet strength, devotion to his family, service to his country, and the many lives he touched throughout his 89 years. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, and the countless memories they will cherish forever. Services took place Saturday, August 22, 2026 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Absecon. May he rest peacefully and always be remembered.

Atlantic City dining back in the day By Bruce Klauber

tlantic City residents and visitors of a certain age have warm memories of their favorite restaurants of yore, with the most frequently mentioned as “missed” being Hackney’s, Captain Starn’s, and Lou’s Deli in Ventnor. Indeed, the pieces on Lou’s in Shore Local and in the recently-published “Hidden History of Atlantic City” book have received incredible responses. But there were other restaurants, probably more than a thousand of them, that were a part of Atlantic City’s landscape for decades, though most of them, sadly, disappeared by the latter 1960s. Several of these establishments, reflecting Atlantic City’s large, Jewish population from the 1930s through the mid-1960s, were Kosher or Kosher-styled establishments. Census records show that from the Depression though the 1950s, 20 percent of Atlantic City’s population — and that number did not include the populations of Ventnor, Margate or Longport — was Jewish. Any list of once-popular restaurants at the shore would have to include Kornblau’s Restaurant and

Delicatessen, at Pacific and Virginia Avenues, and in operation from the mid-1920s through 1970. Described as a “beloved landmark” in Atlantic City promotional materials of the 1950s, the family-owned restaurant specialized in Jewish delicacies and was a favorite of many of the headliners who performed at the Steel Pier, just a block up from Virginia Avenue on the Boardwalk. “Kornblau’s served the kind of Jewish South Jersey food that kept my grandparents going down to the shore every summer,” was only

one enthusiastic comment posted on a Facebook page dedicated to Atlantic City history. The African-American owned Wash’s Restaurant opened in 1937 and was originally a 20-seat venue on Kentucky Avenue near Club Harlem. Those who remember Wash’s recall that that their soul food was a favorite of all the entertainers who worked on Kentucky Avenue. Sometime in the 1950s, owners Clifton and Alma Washington moved the place to Arctic Avenue, where it continued to thrive with an expanded menu that specialized in seafood and ribs. In the early 1970s, the owners moved the operation to Pleasantville, where it operated quite successfully as a catering facility until it closed in 2012. The unfortunately-named Mammy’s, located right in front of Steeplechase Pier, simply could not be missed. The bustling location, the lights, and the large, donut-making machine positioned right in the front window on the Boardwalk, attracted thousands of diners daily. Mammy’s was owned by the boxer-turned-restaurateur Lew Tendler and his wife, Elia Lasker Tendler, who also operated several other spots at the shore and in Philadelphia. Mammy’s specialty was waffles and Boscul coffee, a Camden favorite. Mammy’s stayed open, with considerable difficulty in its final years, through the late 1970s. Steeplechase Pier lasted only a few more seasons. It closed permanently around 1983.

C a r s o n ’s Tr i a n g l e , at New Hampshire and Gramercy Avenues just behind Starn’s and Hackney’s at the inlet, served up its singular dishes of fried shrimp and what they called French-fried lobster tails since its 1934 opening. Stan Carson had been a bootlegger who was reportedly at loose ends when Prohibition was no longer law, so Stan and wife Madeline decided to open a bar. In order to get customers in the door, they gave away fried shrimp. It was a good move. Though Carson’s Triangle is forgotten today, it actually became the third most popular seafood restaurant — Hackney’s and Starn’s were numbers one and two — in the city during the 1950s. Carson’s burned down in 1976. Shumsky’s, a Kosher-styled, Rumanian restaurant at 2319 Pacific Avenue, across from what was then Convention Hall, opened in 1928. Owned by Joseph Shumsky and his wife, this was a popular spot for years in the Jewish community and beyond. Shumsky’s, which also featured live entertainment in its famed “Kishka Room,” was known for its desserts. Their “Cheese Cake of the Century,” as it was called, was a noted favorite. Because of its quality and because Shumsky’s always did great business, it hung on until the early 1980s.

Other noted spots: Alfred’s Villa, at 3413 Pacific Avenue, had seven dining rooms and billed itself as “one of America’s most picturesque restaurants” and “a gourmet rendezvous.” Quite popular in the 1950s, Alfred’s lasted until the mid-1960s. Another, Jewish-styled deli that seemed to be constantly packed was The Great Josh’s at 3709 Ventnor Avenue. In addition to the Jewish specialties, the subs were also terrific,

↘Continued on 82

August 27, 2026

the area’s largest slection of

outdoor clothing & boots!

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

Petsmart Center

259

• 609-926-0688

We Shorten Pants for FREE

NAME:_______________________________ DATE:_____________

Shore Local Trivia

Road Scholar V R H K K A F K J V B S E H I X B U G A T L A N T I C B V Q W G A S Z P A C I F I C X Z P C H R T W G J G P S D Q X D R F L D T P S K V A S B U R Y O I W W K E R J H N Y X F S N Q C W A O C E A N H E I G H T S V N S E Z L A M M Y M W C Y T M C H A S T X O P I Z E E D A J O I O L S Y S G L L S N O G D X N F U Q V S V Z K L T J E A S G J E X Z M M L B E R P C Z Y T R Z Y G I A L R Y A T O L A O V W E T L O I R B L Y A Y H N R X V N L F N G R E F C S Z L A N D I S B A C N E N H R D N U D L G K E D T T B B N F Z T D G G E B S I J A U H R L M G U B B D O P D Z S N M F M Z Q B U Y R V T H I V S M R

Test Your Local Knowledge ASBURY ATLANTIC CENTRAL FIRE LANDIS MILL MOSSMILL OCEANHEIGHTS PACIFIC PITNEY SHORE STAGECOACH WASHINGTON WESLEY ZION

This was the first Atlantic City casino to open back in 1978: a) Caesars b) Resorts International c) Trump Plaza d) Tropicana

2. What do you call the elastic rope that attaches to a surfer's ankle? a) Leash b) Cord c) Keeper d) Rubber band 3. These pedal-powered fourwheeled vehicles roll down the Ocean City boardwalk. a) Wheelie b) Coaster c) Push Cart d) Surrey

5. These prehistoric crabs thrive along our shores: a) Hermit Crab b) Helmet Crab c) Needle Nose Crab d) Horseshoe Crab Bonus Question! What Cape May County town on Route 9 could be accused of false advertising? Answers on page 82. All Correct - SURELY LOCAL. You’ve got sand in your toes and pines needles by your feet. 4 correct - SOLID LOCAL. You know your way around. 3 correct - SEMI LOCAL. Not born and raised, but not bad. 1 or 2 correct - NEWBIE. Take another exit. You should get around more. All incorrect - SHOOBIE – Welcome to South Jersey. The beach is that way.

4. Since this town's beach-side walkway is made of concrete, its called the promenade. a) Sea Isle b) Atlantic City c) Margate d) Avalon

SHORE FUNNY 1/2

609-710-3408

12-31-26

August 27, 2026

SUDOKU Solution on page 82

THEME: MOVIE ANIMALS

OPEN FROM 11AM CLOSED MONDAY

609-645-0500

ACROSS 1. Deli side 5. *"Breakfast at Tiffany's" animal 8. Songs for one 12. What formica and biochemical have in common 13. Prefix for partly 14. Dark 15. Crew equipment, pl. 16. Steinbeck's "East of ____" 17. Golf shirt 18. *"Marmaduke" animal 20. *"Away & Back" animal 21. Game "field" 22. Slightly insane 23. Casual top 26. Vending machine 30. Rocks, to a bartender 31. Bowling prop 34. Lush 35. Trots and canters 37. Broadcasting medium 38. Inflammatory swelling 39. Highland tongue 40. Sock pattern 42. Bring into play 43. Go back over 45. Theater passages 47. Part of a cheer 48. Lump of anything 50. Milo and Otis, e.g. 52. *"Dunston Checks In" animal 56. Wheel on a spur 57. CISC alternative 58. Private theater box 59. Resembling wings 60. MacFarlane or Rogen 61. Go-____ 62. *Bullseye, Hamm and Lotso Bear, e.g. 63. Lyric poem 64. Immediately, doctor's jargon

DOWN 1. Air quality concern 2. Fibber 3. Farm measure 4. Sushi condiment 5. Natural moth repellent 6. To change, as in the U.S. Constitution 7. Fork prong 8. *"Harry Potter" animal (2 words) 9. Earthenware pot 10. *"Born Free" animal 11. I in T.G.I.F. 13. Administer diazepam 14. When Cinderella wins 19. Civil wrongs 22. "Some Nights" band 23. *"Life of Pi" animal 24. Close call 25. Bank job 26. Gossamer 27. Cry like #5 Across 28. Liquorice flavored herb 29. Hues 32. Backgammon predecessor 33. *"Babe" animal 36. *"Anchorman" and "The Wizard of Oz" animals 38. Kundera's "Unbearable Lightness of ____" 40. "That feels good!" exclamation 41. Set in motion 44. Like a go-getter bird 46. Lies in ambush 48. Wept 49. It makes waste? 50. Singular of #17 Across 51. Home versus ____ game 52. Guesstimate phrase (2 words) 53. To perfection (3 words) 54. Taj Mahal city 55. As opposed to gross 56. *"Willard" animal See Solution on Page 82

August 27, 2026

↘Continued from 78

Since 1982 A family-run, all-service tire and automotive facility. We pride ourselves on our customer service and honesty. Our great relationship with our customers has allowed us to service their vehicles for over 40 years at the same location!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST TIRE CENTER

YOUR FULL SERVICE SHOP

$30 OFF

Set of 4 New Tires 8ʍͩͅࢶࢳ

Not to be combined with other offers. Expires 9/30/26

$12.50 OFF Pair of 2 New Tires

Not to be combined with other offers. Expires 9/30/26

and what made Josh’s extra-special was the fact that ice cream was also on the extensive menu. Teplitzky’s was a landmark in the city from just after World War II through the early 1970s. Standing at Chelsea and Pacific Avenue, Teplitzsky’s was a hotel, a guest house and a Kosher restaurant that hosted weddings, bar mitzvahs and other events, and, according to the Jewish newspaper, the Forward, “Teplitzsky’s was a central hub for Jewish family life. In mid-20th-century Atlantic City, there was nothing like Teplitzky’s for the Jewish tourist. Mostly, those tourists came from Philadelphia, Baltimore or New York, maybe for a week, maybe for a weekend, maybe only for Cousin Sammy’s wedding.” The Teplitzsky name was so much a part of Atlantic City history, that in 2008, the name was revived via the opening of a “new” Teplitzsky’s, located exactly where the original was. The new venue was more of a diner and coffee shop than the original, with gigantic breakfasts being their specialty. It lasted until the winter of 2017 and is now the site of Gilchrist’s. Culmone’s Restaurant and Bar, at 2437 Atlantic Avenue, was founded in 1960 by Frank and Maria Culmone, who immigrated to the city from Sicily in that year. Culmone’s was known for fabulous Italian food and for their famed “tableside Caesar

salad.” Culmone’s was in operation for an astounding 48 years, and the restaurant’s culinary legacy continued, as sons Giovanni and Giuseppe later became chefs in Atlantic City casinos. Let us know your favorites from “back in the day.” We’ll track down any available information and feature them in an upcoming piece. 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.

Answers to page 80 Trivia Puzzle: 1. 2. 3. 4.

b) Resorts International a) Leash d) Surrey d) Horseshoe Crab

5. a) Sea Isle Answer to Bonus Question: Ocean View

Solutions to page 81 puzzles. Check yourself!

August 27, 2026

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