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SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE
July Events Heat Up Clams, Critters and Curiosities in Our Waters Interview with Former Diving Horse Rider Message in a Bottle Found 50 Years Later EHT Grad Heads to MLB
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E
The messages we leave behind
very day, we receive thouhood imagination would sands of messages. one day bring smiles to thousands of strangers Texts. Emails. Social media posts. Road signs. Comand reconnect her loved mercials. Most are read in seconds, ones with a treasured forgotten in minutes and replaced by memory. the next thing demanding our attenThink about that for a moment. A little girl tion. Yet sometimes, the messages tossed a bottle into the that leave the deepest impression water without any exare the ones that take the longest to arrive. pectation of what would While volunteering to clean South happen next. She simply Jersey's marshlands, John Kauterput something hopeful man spotted what appeared to be just into the world and let the currents decide the rest. another discarded bottle. Instead, he discovered something extraordinary: Isn't that what all of us a handwritten note sealed inside for are doing in one way or more than 50 years. another? The message was simple, playful Every kind word we and wonderfully imaginative. Written offer. Every child we encourage. Every in 1973 by two sisters vacationing in neighbor we help. Every smile, every Ocean City, it joked about being capthank you, every act of generosity tured by "ruthless sponge fishermen" becomes its own message in a bottle. and forced to dive in shark-infested We rarely know where it will end up waters. Like so many childhood ador whose life it may touch years from ventures, it was never meant to be now. anything more than a moment of fun. John Kauterman wasn't searching Or so they thought. for a viral story. He was simply picking More than five decades later, that up trash to help protect the marshes. tiny piece of notebook paper found His willingness to volunteer not only its way back to the family that created improved the environment but unit. One of the sisters had passed away covered a remarkable reminder that Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly. years earlier, never knowing her childsmall acts often lead to extraordinary Issue 396
outcomes. It's easy to believe the world is defined by conflict, negativity and division because those stories travel the fastest. But every community is also filled with quiet people doing meaningful work without expecting recognition. They mentor children, coach youth sports, stock food pantries, check on elderly neighbors and spend Saturday mornings cleaning marshes. Most of those stories never make headlines. But they matter.
Perhaps the greatest irony is that in an age when we can reach someone across the globe in an instant, it was a handwritten note drifting with the tides that reminded us how lasting human connection can be. The technology of instant communication and social media outreach helped solve the mystery, but it was imagination, kindness and curiosity that made the story unforgettable. As you enjoy another week at the Shore, consider the messages you're sending into the world. They may not be written on notebook paper or sealed inside a glass bottle. They may be carried in your actions, your words or your willingness to help someone else. You may never know where they end up. But just like that little bottle from 1973, they might have a way of reaching exactly the right person when the time is right.
Peace & Love, Cindy
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July 16, 2026
From hatchery to harvest: Inside New Jersey’s hard clam industry
By Julia Train
H
ard clams are a staple on many South Jersey menus, and plenty of residents enjoy digging for them in local bays. But fewer people know how many of those shellfish are grown through aquaculture before
Billy Mayer, Jr. harvesting clams in the bay behind Brigantine.
ever reaching a dinner plate. Hard clams naturally inhabit bays and estuaries along the Atlantic coast, with New Jersey among the species' most productive habitats, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). While recreational clamming remains a popular pastime, wild harvests have declined because of poor water quality, habitat loss and overharvesting. As wild clam populations declined, aquaculture became an increasingly important way to meet demand. Clam Daddy’s, located in Brigantine, is a family-owned and -operated clam farm that has supplied local restaurants and Brigantine’s farmers market with hard clams for 50 out of the 52 weeks of the year since 1984. Bill Mayer started the business out of necessity. After beginning his career as a wild clammer, he turned to aquaculture when wild clam populations declined and he could no longer meet customer demand. Clam Daddy's raises hard clams through aquaculture, a practice the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) describes
Clam Daddy’s employees planting clams in the bay. as farming aquatic organisms for food production, habitat restoration and conservation. In New Jersey, hard clam aquaculture became established during the 1970s and remains the state's largest aquaculture industry, according to NJDEP. Because few people were farming clams at the time, Mayer largely learned through trial and error, according to his son, Billy Mayer Jr.
After being harvested, the clams are bagged, cleaned and sorted to get ready for the market.
How clam farming works
In the wild, hard clams spawn each spring as warming bay waters trigger the release of eggs and sperm. After
Kelli is committed to helping you receive full and fair compensation.
Clams ready to be planted
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fertilization, larvae drift in the water for several weeks before settling into the sand or mud, where they grow to maturity, according to NJDEP. Hard clam aquaculture replicates and accelerates that natural process in a controlled environment. For Clam Daddy's, the process begins on land, where clams are spawned in a laboratory. Once the young clams reach the appropriate stage, they are transferred to an outdoor nursery, where tanks are supplied with water pumped directly from the bay. As the clams filter the bay water for food, they naturally help improve water quality while continuing to grow. Once the young clams reach about 8 to 12 millimeters — roughly the size
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↘Continued from 6 of a pencil eraser — they are planted in underwater plots covered with protective mesh to shield them from predators such as stingrays, crabs and birds. After three to four years, when the clams reach the legal market size of 1.5 inches, they're harvested during low tide using a 24-inch-wide bull rake fitted with metal teeth and
Buckets of clams ready to be cleaned and sorted to meet the needs of local businesses.
Clam Daddy’s can be seen at Brigantine’s farmer’s markets. a collection basket. Workers then gather any remaining clams by hand,
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a process known as treading. The harvested clams are brought ashore, where they're cleaned, sorted, bagged and prepared for market. Despite the years of work required to raise a crop of clams, Billy Mayer Jr. said he wouldn't trade the job for anything. “It’s a passion of mine. I love being out in the water. We have a beautiful office, I like being on the bay watching the sunrise,” he said. “Every single
Bill Mayer, Sr. is ready to plant clams.
day, you’re doing the same things, but it’s different because you’re dealing with Mother Nature.” As wild shellfish populations continue to face environmental challenges, aquaculture helps provide a reliable supply of hard clams while easing pressure on natural beds. For those interested in harvesting wild clams, Mayer recommends obtaining a New Jersey shellfish license and checking the NJDEP's certified
shellfish maps before heading out, since some waters remain closed because of pollution. Julia graduated from Rider University in 2024 with a BA in multiplatform journalism and minor in social media strategies. In addition to reporting on local news for Shore Local, she is a social media strategist for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @ juliatrain on Instagram.
July 16, 2026
EHT grad leads strong local draft crop
By David Weinberg
E
gg Harbor Township High School graduate Cameron Flukey realized a dream on Saturday. The Detroit Tigers selected the hard-throwing, right-handed pitcher from Coastal Carolina University in the first round of the Major League Draft, taking him with the 22nd overall pick. “It was a surreal feeling, for sure,” Flukey said during a Zoom call with media.
ed to be a part of the Detroit Tigers organization,” Flukey told NJ.com. “I can’t wait to get started on the mound and begin this next chapter of my journey.” Flukey barely got out of his driveway at the start of the journey. He was a 5-foot-8 freshman at EHT throwing 75 miles an hour. He barely made the Eagles’ freshman team and contemplated giving up the sport. His father, Vincent, encouraged him to stay with it. He sought out Mike Adams, co-owner of the Baseball Performance Center in Egg Harbor
Township and former minor-league pitcher. “It’s just awesome to see the way he’s developed,” Adams told NBC10. com. Flukey grew to 6-foot-4 by his sophomore season and continued to improve. As a senior at EHT, he recorded 83 Strikeouts in 46.2 innings with a 0.45 earned run average and ended his high school career with a complete-game shutout with 10 strikeouts in a state playoff game against Toms River North. As a junior at Coastal Carolina in
2025, he went 7-2 with 118 striketouts in 101.2 innings in helping the Chantacleers each the College World Series. A stress fracture in his rib limited him to 24 innings this season. “Cam’s journey shows that dreams are attainable,” EHT coach Bryan Carmichael told NJ.com. “He worked relentlessly, stayed true to himself, and has represented Egg Harbor Township with tremendous class.” Weingartner was the first local high school player drafted since Pet-
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The Detroit Tigers selected pitcher Cameron Flukey of Egg Harbor Township in the draft. He was one of five players from Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland Counties to be drafted over the weekend, joining St. Augustine Prep shortstop/pitcher Alex Weingartner (Chicago White Sox, sixth round), St. Augustine/St. Joseph’s University pitcher Andrew Gaines (Milwaukee Brewers, 10th round), Cedar Creek High School/ St. Joseph’s pitcher Christian Coppola (Phillies, 12th round) and Ocean City High School/ St. Joseph’s pitcher Duke McCarron (Miami Marlins, 17th round). Flukey, a 6-foot-6, 210-pound right-hander, became the fourth local athlete to be drafted in the first round, joining football player William Green from Holy Spirit High School and baseball players Mike Trout (Millville High School) and Chase Petty (Mainland Regional High School). Green, a running back from Boston College, was taken 16th overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2002 NFL Draft. Trout, the three-time American League Most Valuable Player, was selected by the Los Angeles Angels with the 25th overall pick in 2009. Petty, a pitcher, was taken 26th overall by the Minnesota Twins in 2021 before being traded to the Cincinnati Reds. Flukey’s slot value as the No. 22 pick is $4.08 million. “I am incredibly honored and excit-
July 16, 2026
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by Golf Digest, Golf Week and Golf. com. Twisted Dune Golf Club in Egg Harbor Towship earned the highest ranking, placing second in the state behind Ballyowen Golf Club in Hamburg in Sussex County. Shoregate Golf Club in Ocean View (No. 4), the Bay Course at Seaview in Galloway Township (No. 5) and Ballamor in Egg Harbor Township (No. 8) also landed in the top 10. Cape May National Golf Club in Lower Township and Blue Heron Pines Golf Club in Egg Harbor City placed 17th and 19th, respectively.
ty. He was taken by the White Sox with the first pick of the sixth round, No. 166 overall. The 6-2, 200-pounder batted .495 with seven home runs, 36 RBI, 33 stolen bases and 46 runs scored. As a pitcher, he notched 81 strikeouts in 48.1 innings with a 0.87 ERA. He was New Jersey’s Gatorade Player of the Year. His slot value is $413,900. He also has a full scholarship to Penn State. “There are not a lot of words to describe hearing your name called,” Weingartner told NJ.com. “The feeling of getting picked is something I’ll never forget. I’m just super excited for the opportunity.”
Atlantic City, Ocean City beach patrols earn wins
The Atlantic City and Ocean City beach patrols posted impressive victories in the opening events of the local lifeguard racing season last week. Atlantic City earned two wins, taking first place in both the Michael D. McGrath Longport Memorials and Longport Women’s Invitational race. Ocean City rallied to win the Cape May County Lifeguard Championships for the first time since 2018. Swimmer Ady Elko and the surf dash relay team of Emma Crozier,
The Ocean City Beach Patrol won the 2026 Cape May County Lifeguard Championships on Friday, July 10, 2026 Grace Marczyk, Tess Roman and Madison Listinsin took top honors for Atlantic City in the Longport Women’s Invitational. Ocean City was in third place after six events in the Cape May County races in Wildwood Crest before sweeping the women’s and men’s surf dash relays to claim the team title for the 19th time since the competition began in 1984. Abby Hays, Chloe Care, Grace Cullen and Claudia Booth won the women’s surf dash, then Matt Bell,
Wyatt Clayton, Andrew Shaw and Jack Behm clinched the title in the men’s race. Rhylee Cornell won the women’s box swim for Ocean City. The action resumed this week with three more events. The Chief Bill Kuhn Lifeguard Invitational Twisted Dune Golf Club in Brigantine and the Buzz Mogck Memorial Cape May Harbor Pines Golf Club and McSuperAthalon were scheduled for Cullough’s Emerald Links, both in Egg Monday. Harbor Township, earned honorable Tuesday featured the Ocean City mentions. Women’s Championships, followed David is a nationally recognized by the Beschen-Callahan Memorial sports columnist who has covered Races in North Wildwood on Friday. Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Local golf courses Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his honored Six local public courses were votown Facebook page, Dave Weinberg ed among the top 20 layouts in New Extra Points. Send comments to weinJersey in a consensus from rankings bergd419@comcast.net.
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Multi-day Events
Events and Happenings
entrance to Corson’s Inlet State Park at 59th Street and Central Avenue. Family Nights
'Fame the Musical' Presented by OCTC
▶Friday, July 17 & Saturday, July 18, 7:30 p.m.
▶Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 – 9 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk This high-octane musical features the Academy Award-winning title song along with a host of other catchy pop numbers, reaching new generations of performers and audience members. Visit www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com for more information. Fool Moon Theatre Presents 'The Drowsy Chaperone'
Ocean City Boardwalk from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets Families are invited to the boardwalk for an evening of entertainment, including magicians, music, characters, and more. For details, visit www. oceancityvacation.com. Mummers Nights
▶Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m.
▶Friday, July 17 – Sunday, July 26
Margate Community Church, 8100 Ventnor Avenue, Margate This hard-hitting performance is guaranteed to entertain audiences with one show-stopping song and dance number after another. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday evening at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person, $30 for seniors, and $20 for students and may be purchased at the door or by visiting www.foolmoontheatre.org. Play Readings and a Play
▶Friday, July 24, 5:30 p.m. & Saturday, July 25, 12:30 p.m.
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Celebrate Lucy the Elephant's 145th birthday, the 50th anniversary of her designation as a National Historic Landmark and America's 250th birthday. Photo credit: Lucy the Elephant John F. Scarpa Academic Center, 3711 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City The South Jersey Players and its cultural partner, Players and Playwrights by the Jersey Shore, are collaborating for a weekend of playreadings and a play with a buffet dinner. The production will be held in the Fannie Lou Hamer Event Room at Stockton University’s Atlantic City campus. Tickets are $40 per person. For reservations, please call 347-
920-6399. Ocean City Beach Walks
▶Tuesdays, 9 a.m., Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.
59th Street Beach Join Ocean City for their weekly guided beach walks this summer. Volunteer beachguides will share information on a variety of topics, including shells, birds, the ocean, beach vegetation, and more. Tours run for approximately one hour. Meet at the
Ocean City Boardwalk from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets See the Mummers strut the boardwalk every Thursday night this summer, beginning at Sixth and 14th Streets and meeting at 10th Street. For details, visit www.oceancityvacation.com. Market Days in Ocean City
▶Thursdays, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Asbury Avenue from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets Join Ocean City for Market Days every Thursday for strolling entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors, and more.
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July 16, 2026
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Thursday, July 16
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 every Thursday between the bulkhead and dunes. Grab your beach chairs and blankets and watch ‘Dog Man’ on screen this Thursday, July 16. Plus, mark your calendars for a screening of the newest ‘Smurfs’ movie on July 23. Arrive at 6:30 p.m. for free kids crafts from Lucy the Elephant. The movie will begin at approximately 7 p.m.
Friday, July 17
Beach Exercise: Low Impact
▶8 – 9 a.m.
6th Street Beach, Ocean City Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for free Low Impact exercise classes every Friday. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-398-6900. Ocean City Walking Club
▶8 – 10 a.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to meet outside the
ticket booth at the Music Pier to walk the length of the boardwalk. Stay active, meet friends, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Weather permitting.
Saturday, July 18
Skate AC's Uptown Takeover
▶2 p.m.
201 N. Massachusetts Ave., Atlantic City The event features skate demos beginning at 2 p.m. with professional skateboarders including Brandon Westgate, Ronnie Kessner, Blake Carpenter, Ish Cepeda and more. Cash prizes and a best trick contest begin at 4 p.m. Live music by Pool Scum starts at 6 p.m., with food available from Sadboyz. Admission is free. Lucy the Elephant Birthday Celebration
▶10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Lucy the Elephant, Margate Celebrate Lucy the Elephant's 145th birthday, the 50th anniversary of her designation as a National Historic Landmark and America's 250th birthday. The family-friendly event features inflatable attractions, the Lucy Express Trackless Train, mini golf, food vendors, birthday festivities at 3 p.m. with donuts, commemorative merchandise and tours inside the landmark throughout the day. Atlantic Avenue will be closed to eastbound traffic from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
America 250: Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show Huge Book Sale
▶8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Atlantic County Historical Society Museum, 907 Shore Road, Somers Point Join ACHS next Saturday for their summer book sale. Hundreds of books, postcards, magazines, and puzzles will be available and priced to sell. The museum is located next to Somers Mansion. Parrot Head Party
▶5 – 10 p.m.
Brigantine VFW, 121 31st Street S. The Brigantine VFW invites the
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▶6 p.m.
Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater at Tony Canale Park Mark your calendars and pack your beach chairs and blankets for a movie night in the park. Watch the latest Lilo & Stitch movie with family and friends. Sponsored by EHT Clean Communities.
Sunday, July 19 Zumba at the Library
▶11 a.m.
Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Join Longport Library for a fun morning of dancing and exercising. Please call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more. Simply The Best: The Music of Tina Turner
▶7:30 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk ‘Simply the Best’ celebrates the stories and songs that made Tina Turner one of the greatest performers around the globe. Performed by Grammy Award winning vocalist Tamika Lawrence and Broadway’s Shaleah Adkisson, this show celebrates the iconic singer’s star-studded career. Visit www.oceancityvacation.com for more information.
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public to join their Parrot Head Party. Escape to Margaritaville and enjoy live music by Sounds of the Islands Steel Drums, along with a delicious buffet menu. EHT Movies in the Park
Monday, July 20 Beach Exercise: Yoga
▶8 – 9 a.m.
6th Street Beach, Ocean City Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for free Yoga classes every Monday. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-398-6900.
July 16, 2026
EHT Monday Morning Madness
▶11 a.m.
Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater at Tony Canale Park Bring your family and friends and join EHT Recreation for Monday Morning Madness. This week, Tuckers’ Tales presents a theatrical performance of “It’s the Wolf.” Penguins at the Library
▶6 p.m.
Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Join Longport Library as they welcome some cool guests from Jenkinson’s Aquarium. Please call 609-487-7403 for more information. Somers Point Kid Concerts on the Beach
▶6:30 p.m.
William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue Join Somers Point Recreation every Monday for free summer kids concerts on the beach. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening of live music by Mark Rust along with free family-friendly activities. Judy Collins and Richard Thompson
▶7 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Singer-songwriters Judy Collins and Richard Thompson will perform live on-stage at the Music Pier this Monday. Inspired by artists such as Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, Collins has released more than 25 studio albums and numerous live recordings. Thompson is a renowned singer-songwriter who is acclaimed as one of the top guitarists of all time. Visit www.ocnj.us/summerconcertseries for more information and to purchase tickets. Produced by BRE Presents.
America 250: Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show
▶9 p.m.
Ocean City Beach and Boardwalk South of Sixth Street Ocean City celebrates the 250th anniversary of our nation with a weekly patriotic drone show over the beach and boardwalk. The show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the night sky, creating animations that salute America. The 15-minute shows will be held after dusk on Mondays through Aug. 24.
Tuesday, July 21
Funtastic Tuesdays in Ocean City
▶10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Asbury Avenue from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets Join Ocean City for Funtastic Tuesdays every week, featuring strolling entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors, and more. The Berenstain Bears Presented by OCTC
Senior Dance Society
▶7 – 9:30 p.m.
Somers Point Fire Co. No. 1, 447 Bethel Road Join in the fun and enjoy an evening of dancing with live music duos every Tuesdays. Activities include social dancing, line dancing, dance mixers and more. For more information, contact Sharon at kookiecar@ yahoo.com.
Wednesday, July 22 Beach Exercise: Pilates
▶8 – 9 a.m.
6th Street Beach, Ocean City Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for
free Pilates every Wednesday. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-3986900. Wacky Wednesday: Christmas in July
▶10:30 a.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Celebrate the Christmas holiday season in July with a special craft and a visit from Santa while he is in town on vacation. Visit with Santa from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. and enjoy the sounds of the season with Christmas
↘Continued on 16
▶10:30 a.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Join Ocean City Theatre Company as the classic Berenstain Bears books come to life in an entertaining way. This performance will weave together stories from the beloved children’s series, allowing each of the tales to leap seamlessly from the pages to the stage. Visit www. oceancitytheatrecompany.com for more information. Music Bingo at the Library
▶6:30 p.m.
Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Avenue Join Longport Library for a funfilled evening of music bingo with prizes and great company. Please call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more.
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↘Continued from 15 Music Bingo at 11 a.m. Participants must be present at the Music Pier at 10:30 a.m. to participate. Wacky Wednesdays at Absecon Lighthouse
▶11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
31 S. Rhode Island Avenue Join Absecon Lighthouse all summer as they host Wacky Wednesdays. Free for kids with regular admission. Enjoy crafts and activities, coloring fun for all ages, and new themes weekly, including the Salty Sea, Pirates & Mermaids, and Fairy Tales. 34th Street Summer Series
▶6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Sandcastle Park, 3401 West Avenue Join Ocean City for an evening of family-friendly entertainment. Activities include themed entertainment, live performances, face painters, and balloon makers. The Summer Series will be held Wednesdays through Aug. 19. The Jersey Tenors
▶7:30 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Join the Friends of the Ocean City Pops as they welcome The Jersey Tenors, the newest opera/ rock mash-up sensation. The group creates an immersive blend of iconic opera classics alongside rock giants
like Queen, Bon Jovi, and Elton John. Visit www.oceancityvacation.com for more information.
Thursday, July 23
Throwback Thursday with JFS Village
▶10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Beth El Synagogue, 500 N. Jerome Avenue, Margate Join the Jewish Federation of Atlantic & Cape May Counties and JFS Village for a special program that will showcase the captivating journey of South Jersey’s Jewish past. This program will focus on the lost shuls of the Pine Barrons. RSVP by July 17 by emailing tserota@jfsvillage.org or call 609-287-8872. Absecon Galloway Rotary Club Meetings
▶6 p.m.
Gourmet Italian Restaurant, 324 South Pitney Road, Galloway. Learn more about Rotary, how they serve our local community, and meet local community members. For club information, go to www.facebook.com/AbseconGallowayRotary or email Rose McCarthy, Club President, at bluerose46@aol.com.
Friday, July 24
Memoir Workshop with JFS Village
▶10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Katz JCC, 501 N. Jerome Avenue,
BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS BEST BAGELS
Locations in: Margate • Somers Point • Northfield • Atlantic City
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Margate Experience the thrill of capturing your life’s adventures, history, and ancestry. Plus, learn how to publish your work. A laptop or pen and paper is needed for this workshop. RSVP by July 22 by emailing tserota@jfsvillage.org or call 609-287-8872. 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.
Saturday, July 25
Night in Venice 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk
▶8 a.m.
19th Street and Haven Avenue, Ocean City One of Ocean City’s newest events, the Night in Venice 5K and 1 Mile Walk will start and finish along the bike path. Race-day registration will open next Saturday at the 19th Street Basketball Courts behind the Intermediate School. All proceeds benefit the Ocean City Boys & Girls Cross Country and Track & Field Boosters. Visit https://runsignup. com/Race/NJ/OceanCity/Nightinvenice5k for more information. Live Q&A with Randy Quaid and Christmas Vacation Screening
▶12 p.m.
Ocean City Tabernacle, 550 Wesley Avenue The Night in Venice Committee welcomes beloved actor Randy Quaid, star of Cousin Eddie in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, for an afternoon of laughs, memories, and holiday cheer. Enjoy a screening of the classic film at 12 p.m. followed by a live Q&A. Meet and greets, including commemorative photos and signed posters, will be available. Visit www.oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice for tickets. Donny Fund Day
▶4:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Yacht Club of Pleasantville, 344 E. Bayview Avenue The 32nd Annual Donny Funday Day will take place along with their annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. Attendees will enjoy a buffet by Hannah G’s and full evening of activities, with all proceeds benefiting The Donny Fund for kids with special needs. Contact John Glassey at 609-6418666 or email drjgfromac@aol.com for more information. Ocean City Night in Venice
▶6:30 p.m.
Ocean City Bay from Battersea
Ocean City's Night in Venice is Saturday, July 25. Road to Tennessee Avenue The 71st Annual Night in Venice celebration will mark the 250th anniversary of the United States and Christmas in July with “Stars, Stripes, and Christmas Lights.” Enjoy a parade of beautifully decorated boats, with a special guest appearance by this year’s grand marshal, actor Randy Quaid, best known as the character of Cousin Eddie in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, along with a fireworks display following the parade. Visit www.ocnj.us/niv for additional information.
Health and Wellness Depression and Anxiety Group
▶Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.
Atlantic Community Wellness Center 1125 Atlantic Ave. Suite 617, Atlantic City This weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness, and recovery. Meetings are led by peers who have lived experience. No cost to participate. Offered by the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County. For more information, call 609-6523800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org. Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, August 5, 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, August 10, 7 p.m.
St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point NAMI of Atlantic/Cape May offers free self-help, peer led support groups for family members, caregivers, and friends of individuals over the age of 18 living with a mental illness. Family Support and Connections groups meet on the second Monday of each month. Please visit www. namiacm.org for further information. Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@ gmail.com.
July 16, 2026
Celebrating
Lucy’s
145
TH
B i r t h day
At 3pm, we will sing Happy Birthday to Lucy and hand out birthday donuts.
Rain Date August 1 Check our Social media for updates due to inclement weather.
22’ Double Lane Stars & Stripes Water Slide
The Lucy Express Trackless Train Ride 9-Hole Mini-Golf
Patriotic Colored Cones And Sodas
Fire Dog Belly Bounce
Hot Dogs & French Fries
Mexican Street Corn
Carnival Smash
Philly Hot Pretzels
Money Grab Machine
For more information, call (609)823-6473 or visit us online at www.LucyTheElephant.org The Save Lucy Committee, Inc. received an operating support grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.
One marsh's recovery offers hope for South Jersey's disappearing Wetlands By Sarah Fertsch
T
o many visitors, the vast expanse of salt marsh stretching toward the back bays as simply part of the scenery. But beneath the grasses lies one of South Jersey's greatest defenses against coastal flooding, storm surge and erosion — and one of its most threatened ecosystems. As sea levels continue to rise,
New Jersey's salt marshes are disappearing faster than they can naturally rebuild themselves. Scientists estimate the marshes surrounding The Wetlands Institute alone have lost more than 30 percent of their acreage since the 1950s, and without intervention, another 30% could disappear by the middle of the century. That is why researchers are looking beyond traditional shoreline protection and investing in nature-based
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solutions that strengthen the coast from the ground up. One of the most promising examples is Scotch Bonnet Island, a small tidal marsh located in the back bays west of Stone Harbor near The Wetlands Institute. Although relatively small in size, the marsh has become an important testing ground for restoration techniques that could help preserve wetlands throughout South Jersey and beyond. One year after completing the first phase of restoration there, scientists say they are already seeing encouraging signs that the marsh is recovering.
More than just open space
Salt marshes are among the hardest-working ecosystems along the Jersey Shore. Their dense grasses slow incoming water during storms, absorb wave energy and help reduce flooding in nearby communities. Their roots stabilize sediment, helping shorelines withstand erosion, while also filtering pollutants from coastal waters. Marshes are more than environmental assets — they are natural infrastructure that quietly protects homes, businesses and local economies every day. Yet these ecosystems face increasing pressure from sea-level rise. As tides rise higher and remain on the marsh longer, grasses begin to die. Without vegetation to trap sediment and build elevation, marshes gradually sink below the water's surface, eventually becoming open bays. Without healthy marshes, coastal communities become increasingly vulnerable to flooding while losing habitat that supports wildlife, recreation and commercial fisheries.
A nursery for coastal wildlife
At first glance, New Jersey's salt marshes may appear quiet—a landscape of waving grasses, winding tidal creeks and shallow pools stretching toward the horizon. In reality, they are among the most productive ecosystems on the East Coast, supporting an extraordinary diversity of life both above and below the water. The dominant marsh grasses, including smooth cordgrass and saltmeadow hay, provide shelter and food for countless species while helping stabilize the marsh's muddy soils. Twice each day, the tides flood the marsh with nutrient-rich water, creating ideal conditions for fish,
shellfish and invertebrates to thrive. Many of the fish that populate New Jersey's bays and coastal waters begin their lives in these protected wetlands. Juvenile summer flounder, striped bass, bluefish, Atlantic menhaden and killifish use the marsh creeks as nurseries, where dense vegetation and shallow water offer protection from larger predators. Blue crabs forage among the grasses, while fiddler crabs and ribbed mussels help aerate the soil and improve water quality. The marshes are equally important for birds. Great blue herons, great egrets, snowy egrets and glossy ibises stalk the tidal pools in search of fish and crustaceans. Ospreys soar overhead, while clapper rails, willets and seaside sparrows depend almost entirely on healthy salt marsh habitat for nesting and raising their young. Each spring, migrating shorebirds—including the federally threatened red knot—stop along New Jersey's coast to rest and refuel before continuing thousands of miles to Arctic breeding grounds. Many rely on the rich feeding grounds found in and around marshes, making these wetlands an essential link in one of the world's great wildlife migrations. The marshes also provide critical habitat for diamondback terrapins, the only turtle species in North America that lives exclusively in brackish coastal waters. Females emerge from the marshes each summer to lay their eggs on nearby sandy uplands before returning to the tidal creeks. Beyond supporting wildlife, healthy marshes improve water quality by filtering excess nutrients and trapping sediment. They also store significant amounts of carbon in their soils, making them an important natural ally in addressing climate change while protecting nearby communities from flooding and storm surge. "When people look across the marsh, they often see open space," conservationists say. "In reality, it's a living, breathing ecosystem that supports the entire health of our coastal environment."
A living laboratory
Recognizing the urgency of the problem, The Wetlands Institute partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to launch the Seven Mile Island Innovation Lab, an initiative focused on developing practical, sci-
July 16, 2026
ence-based solutions for marsh restoration. Completed in fall 2024, the Scotch Bonnet Marsh Enhancement Project restored approximately 5.5 acres of low-lying marsh by placing beneficially reused dredged sediment across the marsh surface. The additional material raised portions of the marsh by as much as 2 feet — enough to restore elevations that allow native marsh grasses to survive and thrive once again. Rather than relying on seawalls or hard infrastructure, the project works with natural tidal processes, allowing vegetation to reclaim the marsh over time. Researchers say the results after one year have been encouraging. Monitoring shows the restored marsh has stabilized at the elevations scientists intended, while native marsh grasses have already begun naturally recolonizing the area. Based on similar restoration projects completed elsewhere in southern New Jersey, researchers expect the marsh to become fully vegetated within about three years. "One year after construction, we are again seeing indications that restoring marsh elevation can help reverse the trajectory of marsh loss," said Dr. Lenore Tedesco, executive director of The Wetlands Institute. "This project demonstrates how working with natural processes can reverse marsh loss, rebuild marsh function, support wildlife and strengthen the resilience of threatened coastal systems."
of protecting both wildlife and the communities that call the Jersey Shore home.
As restoration efforts continue at Scotch Bonnet Island and other marshes, Institute leaders say community support remains essential. Donations help fund scientific research, habitat restoration projects, wildlife conservation and educational programming that inspires the next generation of environmental stewards. Those interested in supporting the Institute can become members, make a one-time or recurring donation, volunteer, or participate in one of the organization's many public programs throughout the year. More information is available at wetlandsinstitute.org.
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
Looking ahead
The Wetlands Institute plans to continue monitoring Scotch Bonnet Island while expanding restoration efforts throughout the surrounding marsh complex. A recently awarded $3.075 million grant through New Jersey's Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Natural Climate Solutions Program will fund the Salt Marsh Trail Revitalization Project, restoring additional marsh habitat, improving conditions for atrisk wildlife and elevating portions of the Institute's popular Salt Marsh Trail. For more than 50 years, The Wetlands Institute has combined scientific research, conservation and environmental education to protect New Jersey's coastal ecosystems. Through research, habitat restoration and public outreach, the nonprofit works to ensure that future generations inherit healthy wetlands capable
July 16, 2026
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Somers Point woman publishes book with a sweet South Jersey spin By Sarah Fertsch
W
hat if Ocean City became Ocean Sweetie? What if a stroll along the Boardwalk led to candy-coated adventures, or an evening by the bay was filled with peppermint breezes instead of salty air? Those familiar South Jersey places come to life in a delightfully imaginative way in "Sweet Tooth Scribbles," the debut children's book by Somers Point resident Diana Guaschino. Filled with hand-drawn illustrations and original stories, the book transforms beloved Jersey Shore landmarks into whimsical destinations while celebrating the power of creativity and imagination. Many local residents already know Guaschino as the owner of Bark and Breakfast, her pet boarding business. Now, she's adding another title to her résumé: author and illustrator. While "Sweet Tooth Scribbles" may transport readers to a magical Candyland, its heart is unmistakably rooted in South Jersey.
"I had to write stories to go with the pictures," Guaschino said. "Art has always been a part of my life." That passion for drawing began long before she ever imagined publishing a book. Growing up in a creative family, Guaschino was surrounded by art. Both of her parents enjoyed drawing and sketching, and as a child she eagerly waited for each issue of "Highlights" magazine so she could flip straight to the illustrations by artist Bill Basso. Like many creative hobbies, however, drawing slowly gave way to adulthood. Between work, responsibilities and building Bark and Breakfast into a thriving business, there wasn't much time left for artistic pursuits. Then, during a 2021 trip to Pittsburgh, inspiration arrived unexpectedly. While visiting Sarah's Candies, an old-fashioned candy and ice cream
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shop, Guaschino found herself captivated by enormous candy-themed murals covering the walls. When she returned home to Somers Point, she began sketching her own Candyland—one illustration at a time. Originally, every illustration was drawn the traditional way using colored pencils and markers. She occasionally shared the artwork on Instagram, where friends repeatedly encouraged her to turn it into a children's book. "It was an undertaking," she said. "There were tears and doubt and wondering, 'Why am I doing this?'" But when the first printed copy finally arrived, every late night suddenly felt worthwhile. Beneath the book's whimsical Candyland setting are scenes inspired by the places many South Jersey residents know and love. Readers first discover a secret doorway inside a candy shop before arriving in "Ocean Sweetie," a playful tribute to Ocean City. Guaschino spent childhood summers there, and it was also where she worked her very first job as a beach tag inspector. "Once you're in Candyland, I started asking myself, 'Where would I want to go next?'" she said. Naturally, the next stop was the Boardwalk. From there, readers cross the bridge to "Peppermint Bay," inspired by Somers Point's waterfront summer concert series. Other adventures include prehistoric landscapes, candy-covered mountains inspired by Guaschino's years of snowboarding, and even "Spearmint Airlines," where
flights depart from Hershey, Pennsylvania. The stories evolved much like planning a family vacation. Beyond the recognizable locations, the illustrations are packed with hidden details that reward observant readers. As a nod to her business Bark N’Breakfast, paw prints are hidden across each page of the book. Movie references, family memories, nods to South Philadelphia and playful inside jokes are scattered throughout the pages—details many adults will appreciate while reading alongside their children. The response since the book's release over the Fourth of July weekend has been beyond the author’s expectations. Friends immediately began placing orders, and before long Guaschino's phone filled with photos of children proudly holding the book before bedtime. Although she's exploring opportunities to place copies in local coffee shops and businesses—including conversations with shops in Somers Point and nearby communities—commercial success was never the driving force behind the project. Ideas for a second installment are already beginning to take shape, though Guaschino admits she is still recovering from the months-long process of creating the first book. For Guaschino, holding the finished book was proof that taking creative risks is worthwhile. "When you hold that finished product, even if you're the only person who ever appreciates it, it's such a testament to hard work and creativity," she said. "I don't think we should ever let imagination die." After all, imagination isn't something reserved for childhood. "We don't grow out of imagination," she said. "It's a little world you can always go into." "Sweet Tooth Scribbles" is available through Lulu's online bookstore by searching the book's title or by visiting the link in the book's Instagram page, **@sweettoothscribbles**. Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.
July 16, 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
Live whelks surprise young beachcombers in Ocean City By Cindy Christy Fertsch
A
day at the beach in Ocean City turned into an unexpected marine biology lesson last week when several children discovered live whelks along the shoreline. While many visitors are familiar with the large spiral shells that frequently wash onto South Jersey beaches, finding a live whelk is much less common. The discovery sparked curiosity among beachgoers, many of whom had never seen the animal that creates one of the Jersey Shore's most recognizable shells. A whelk is a large marine snail that spends most of its life on the ocean floor. Unlike
the empty shells commonly collected, a live whelk remains tucked inside its shell, emerging with a muscular foot that allows it to slowly move across the seafloor. It also has a long siphon, a tube-like organ it uses to draw in seawater and detect food. Whelks are carnivores that feed primarily on clams, mussels and other shellfish. Using a specialized rasping organ known as a radula, they can drill through or pry apart shells to reach their prey. As predators and scavengers, they play an important role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Most whelks remain in deeper water, but strong tides, rough surf and coastal storms can occasionally carry them into the surf zone or wash them ashore alive. Marine
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onto beaches throughout South Jersey. Because whelk shells are much thicker and stronger than clam or scallop shells, they are more resistant to breaking in the surf. As a result, they are among the shells most frequently found along the high tide line, particularly after periods of rough weather. New Jersey's long association with the species led lawmakers to designate the A single egg case may contain about 150 whelk as the state's official developing eggs. shell in 1995. The legislation, signed by Gov. Christine single strand may contain about 150 Todd Whitman, followed a developing eggs. As the embryos campaign led by students mature, tiny whelks hatch inside the and educators who sought a capsules before emerging into the state symbol reflecting New ocean to begin life on the seafloor. Jersey's coastal identity and Sometimes, the ocean gives us a commercial fishing heritage. glimpse of the living world that exists Another unusual beach just below the surface. find associated with whelks is For the children who discovered the egg case. Often mistaken live whelks on the 57th Street beach Children discover live whelks along the shoreline. for seaweed or drift debris, in Ocean City, a day at the beach experts recommend observing live these long strands of papery capsules became an exciting lesson in marine biology. whelks without attempting to remove are actually protective nurseries. A them from their shells. If the animal appears healthy, returning it to the Insurance Specialists Since 1879 ocean will improve its chances of survival. Cape May County is home to one of the nation's most productive commercial whelk fisheries. Local fishermen harvest thousands of whelks each year using baited pots placed on the ocean floor. The meat is considered a delicacy and is exported to seafood markets around the world. After processing, however, the shells BUSINESS ~ HOME ~ FLOOD ~ AUTO & MORE are often discarded. Many eventually
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July 16, 2026
By Julia Train
Honoring veterans by serving those they leave behind
F
or Chuck Knutson, one military funeral changed everything. More than a decade ago, the Marine Corps veteran agreed to help conduct funeral honors for a fellow service member. Although he had spent years volunteering for veteran-related causes, he was hesitant to take on such an emotional responsibility. But after some convincing from his wife, who is a Marine veteran, he decided to do it. After folding the American flag and presenting it to the veteran's widow, Knutson realized the significance of that final gesture. "She was very emotional, and it was like an epiphany that I was trading that flag that we had just folded for her husband, who laid in the casket behind me," Knutson said. "She was leaving him there at the cemetery and taking the flag home to remember him. It was going to be displayed on a fireplace mantel or on a shelf for everyone to see, and that represented her husband. I realized
July 16, 2026
Last Salute's Memorial Prayer Box contains the prayer cards or photographs of every veteran it has honored. More than 2,000 cards have been placed inside. just how important what I had just done was for her and her family." That experience inspired Knutson to found Last Salute, an all-volunteer military funeral honor guard that provides funeral ceremonies for veterans throughout South Jersey. Today, the organization conducts between 125 and 150 military funerals
each year, serving Atlantic County and parts of Ocean, Gloucester, Burlington, Cape May and Cumberland counties. "We don't like telling families no," Knutson said. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Last Salute's workload increased dramatically as military personnel were
often unavailable to conduct funeral honors. Knutson said the military would tell families to call him. Last Salute has since become known for ceremonies that go beyond the traditional military funeral protocol. While the military often sends two service members to play taps and present the folded flag, Knutson wanted families to experience something more meaningful. "I wanted it to be more elaborate than that," he said. "When the military would send a couple young people to do a funeral, it might be somebody that had a Bronze Star or a Silver Star. They weren't putting enough effort into it." Today, Last Salute ceremonies can include Civil War-era cannons, a rifle team, military vehicle transport and the organization's Memorial Prayer Box, which contains the prayer cards or photographs of every veteran it has honored. More than 2,000 cards have been placed inside the box, symbolizing what Knutson calls the eternal presence of those who served.
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Helping those going into and leaving the military
The organization's equipment also carries a unique distinction. Its black Humvee, used at every funeral, bears the signatures of 11 Medal of Honor recipients, while a second Humvee, used as a caisson to transport flag-draped caskets, has been signed by nine Medal of Honor recipients. Among the most memorable services Last Salute has performed was the funeral of Hershel "Woody" Williams, the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient. "He actually put it in his will that he wanted us to do his funeral," Knutson said.
Though best known for funeral honors, Last Salute reflects just one part of Knutson's broader commitment to veterans and youth. Long before creating the organization, he organized charity motorcycle raffles benefiting veterans, operated the Magnus Mud Run, a free military-style obstacle course for children, and worked with military recruiters to prepare future service members for boot camp. He continues mentoring recruits today, helping them improve their physical fitness while also offering advice on finances, saving money and adjusting
Events Here are some of the fun events happening in the Wildwoods: JULY 17 - 19 New Jersey Bronco Invasion
JULY 25 - 26 Jus Nice Sneaker Convention in the Wildwoods Convention Center
JULY 18 Boogie Board Races in North Wildwood JULY 23 Legends of Wrestling Night in the Wildwoods Convention Center JULY 25 Community Band By The Sea Performance in Wildwood Kelly’s Kidz 5K & Family Fun Walk on the Wildwood Boardwalk Christmas in July with Surfing Santas and Santa Claus on the North Wildwood Beaches Wildwood Christmas in July Golf Cart Parade on the Wildwood Boardwalk Wildwood Crest Christmas in July Festival and Boat Parade
TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS
Arts in the Parks 7 p.m. | June 23 - August 27
TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS
Doo Wop and Neon Night Tours 8 p.m. | June 16 - August 27 SATURDAY MORNINGS UNTIL AUGUST 30
Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market
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
to military life. "It's not just about training them and preparing them physically for the rigors of boot camp," Knutson said. "It's also mentally preparing them so they're not terrified when they get there." He believes those conversations help build stronger adults. "Anything I can do to help them live better, more confident, positive lives is going to help society overall," he said. "If we can Last Salute ceremonies can include Civil War-era make young people more cannons, a rifle team and military vehicle transport. responsible, confident and productive, how is that not helping standing beside the grave. "[The family sees] that somebody all of us?" cared enough to show up and honor Last Salute also visits schools the person that they love," he said. throughout the year, particularly around Veterans Day and Flag Day, That belief reflects a broader phidemonstrating flag-folding ceremolosophy that has guided his decades of volunteer work. nies, teaching military traditions and, when appropriate, firing ceremonial "I want to be a positive member cannons for students. of society," Knutson said. "I want to "We love the kids," Knutson said. help people where I can, and this just happens to be the best place for me "You just want to make them see that there are people who care about to do it because this is where my skill them and are excited to show and set is." teach them stuff." Whether mentoring future MaThe organization is staffed entirerines, teaching schoolchildren about ly by volunteers, most of whom are military service or presenting one military veterans. Anyone interested final folded flag to a grieving family, in serving must verify their military Knutson hopes every act of service service and meet the organization's inspires another. standards for professionalism and "If you smile at somebody, they appearance. smile back," he said. "If you do good, maybe somebody else will do good." Despite its reputation and recognition — including being entered Families interested in arranging into the Congressional Record and military funeral honors through Last serving as the official military funeral Salute can contact the organization honor guard for several South Jersey at LastSaluteUS@gmail.com or by municipalities — Last Salute receives calling 609-780-7432. Because Last no government funding. The organiSalute is an all-volunteer organizazation provides its services free of tion that provides its services free of charge and relies entirely on donacharge, it relies entirely on donations tions to cover expenses. to continue its mission. Donations can Knutson said his motivation has be made through the organization's never been recognition; it’s the family website, lastsalute.us.
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July 16, 2026
By Bruce Klauber
The Summer of 1957 in Margate
L
ong after the fact, I was told by surviving family members that my mother loved the Atlantic City area, and my father hated it. Mom loved Lou’s in Ventnor. Dad preferred playing golf and tennis in Tamarac, Florida. Still, being the relatively good husband that he was, he did take our family to the Atlantic City area several times, and through the 1950s and early 1960s, we stayed for several days during the season at the Traymore and Deauville Hotels, and during a summer when money was issue, a long-defunct, God awful motel on the Black Horse Pike called the Oasis. Though the Oasis advertised that it had three swimming pools, I could only see one. The most memorable family excursion, at least for me, was the summer of 1957, when my father bit the bullet and rented a three-bedroom home at 8205 Monmouth Avenue in Margate. I had just turned five years of age, and the prospect of spending the summer at Million Dollar Pier, Steel Pier and Steeplechase Pier was thrilling. I didn’t learn until later on that Monmouth Avenue was about
My mom on the Atlantic City boardwalk. a half-mile from the beach, and that the distance to Million Dollar Pier was close to five miles. No matter. I’d find a way to get there. The plan, as I recall, was to rent the house from Memorial Day through Labor Day. My mother, brother and I would be there for the entire season, while my father — who ran a business in Philadelphia — would come down on weekends, like a lot of fathers/
husbands who rented summer homes for their families did at the time. But it was rarely, if ever, just the three or four of us on Monmouth Avenue. Family members — aunts, uncles and cousins — seemingly came out of the woodwork to join us in Margate that summer, and if memory serves, guests stayed with us for a week at a time, sometimes more. It was a fun and joyous time, and
even though I didn’t get to enjoy my beloved amusement rides as often as I wanted — my nagging, I learned, would only take me so far — what made that summer so memorable and so special was that I had the opportunity to bond with my father in a manner I never really experienced again. During his weekend visits, he took me fishing off the rocks in Longport, showed me the rudiments of putting on the miniature golf course, and taught me beach protocol. He may have, as it was told to me, hated the shore, but it sure didn’t seem like that to me in the summer of 1957. While we all went out to dinner from time to time — the old Sid Hartfield’s on the Boardwalk, which we called “Sid Heartburns,” was a favorite — but mostly we had gigantic family meals at home, helped in no small measure by a housekeeper/ baby sitter my mother hired for the summer. My introduction to the Steel Pier happened that summer on one of the season’s few rainy days. Despite my protests, I was deemed too young to travel alone, so the babysitter was in put in charge of getting me to the Pier and back that day. And what a day it was. Though I hadn’t yet de-
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July 16, 2026
veloped an interest in jazz or jazz drumming, in that my tastes didn’t go much beyond Elvis at that time, I was still mesmerized by the performers I saw at the Pier that day. In the Music Hall, the star of the show was none other than Tony Bennett, who was still playing to family audiences at the time, in that he wouldn’t record “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” until 1962. In the Marine Ballroom, two giants of jazz, trumpeter Maynard Ferguson and drummer Gene Krupa, alternated. Perhaps the seed for my eventual love of jazz and my career in jazz was Me, at the Million Dollar Pier in 1957. planted that day. And yes, at Steeplechase Pier, adjacent to the that day at the Pier, I also experienced the Diving Bell and the famed Diving Steel Pier. Though Steeplechase, at Horse. Nap time came courtesy of the time, had more adult/thrill rides the Pier’s movie theater, where I fell than Million Dollar Pier. Steepleasleep during “20 Million Miles to chase’s Tilt-O-Whirl was more than Earth,” one of three, family-oriented enough to satisfy my enthusiasm for films that ran continuously through amusement rides. At least for that the day and evening. Pier owner moment. Million Dollar Pier would George Hamid booked films that come later. What made that summer so wonwould appeal to the entire family. Boardwalk food? I think I had it all derful was that I had never seen my that day, and as an extra special treat, parents and my brother so happy. There would be other family trips after the Pier, we made a short stop
through the years, including a pre-I95 motor trip to Miami Beach in 1960 and a couple of visits to the Catskill Mountain resorts, but none were as joyous as that summer of 1957 in Margate. Things would change for my family around 1961. My father made the decision to move us out of our row house in Overbook to a more upscale neighborhood. My brother and mother hated the decision and our new location. Truth be told, they were never the same after that. Some years later, in an effort to recapture the happiness and togetherness of 1957, my mother lobbied strongly to purchase a condo at the Berkley in Atlantic City in 1973. A two-bedroom condo at the Berkley in that year, the year it was completed, cost around $35,000. It was a no-go. My father still disliked the shore, so, upon his retirement three years later, mother and father moved to Tamarac, Florida near Ft. Lauderdale. My mother hated it. I sometimes drive by that house on Monmouth Avenue, and though I make it a point not to live in the past
or to try to recapture anything, the memories of that summer almost 70 years ago are rich and fond, and that time did help cement my passion for the Atlantic City region. I loved it then, and I love it now. Even without Million Dollar Pier. 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.
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Farmers Markets Atlantic City Farmers Market
▶Fridays, 4 – 6 p.m.
Fisherman’s Park Community Garden, Massachusetts & Drexel Avenues Join C.R.O.P.S. for their weekly farmers markets, where you can shop for locally grown vegetables, fruit and herbs. Plus, enjoy free activities and a community garden with harvested vegetables and herbs. Markets are open Fridays through Sept. 18. Brigantine Farmers Market
▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Brigantine Community School parking lot, Sheridan Boulevard 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
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▶Thursdays, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
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The Margate Community Farmers 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 information, call 1-800-BEACH-NJ or visit oceancityvacation.com. Risley Square 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.
Somers Mansion, 1000 Shore Road The Somers Point Farmers Market is open for the 2026 season. Dozens of local food vendors, crafters, and hometown businesses will set up on the grounds of historic and beautiful Somers Mansion each week. Markets are open on Saturdays through Sept. 12. Ventnor City Farmers Market
▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Newport & Atlantic Avenues The parking lot at St. James Church brims with 70+ farmers, food vendors, and crafters who offer fresh, seasonal picks, delicious artisan foods, baked goods, beverages, and beautiful handmade wares. Visit vcfm.org for more information.
July 16, 2026
85-year old diving horse rider remembers Steel Pier's golden age
one of the most famous entertainment venues in America.
By Sarah Fertsch
A
t 85 years old, Barbara Gose can still picture the view from the top of the Steel Pier diving tower. Perched bareback on a horse nearly 50 feet above the water, she would look out over thousands of spectators filling Atlantic City's legendary amusement pier. Then, with only seconds to think, horse and rider would leap together into history. For one unforgettable summer in 1966, the Atlantic City native became one of the final women to ride the world-famous diving horses, an attraction that defined Steel Pier for generations and remains one of the Jersey Shore's most iconic spectacles.
'The Showplace of the Nation'
When Gose climbed the diving tower in 1966, Steel Pier was still living through the twilight of its golden era. Known for decades as the "Showplace of the Nation," the pier
Our
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An unexpected opportunity
Barbara Gose attracted millions of visitors with an unmatched lineup of entertainment. Guests could spend an entire day watching the diving horses, high divers, animal acts, comedians and novelty performers before settling into the Music Hall to see some of the biggest names in show business.
That summer, New Jersey legends Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons were among the headlining acts entertaining crowds, their chart-topping hits making them one of the hottest groups in America. For Gose, it wasn't just another summer job. She was performing at
Personalized Service
Gose never planned on becoming a diving horse rider. As a mother of three at 27 years old, Gose was already living an unconventional life. Her husband was a surfer in California and she helped him film surfing movies. They traveled back and forth in a hearse, donned with longboards and dried flowers in the trunk. In the summers, Barbara’s husband, Mickey Gose, was regularly performing at Steel Pier as part of a high-diving comedy act. One day, he came home with an unexpected proposition. A regular rider needed time off for a wedding, and Steel Pier needed someone to finish the remainder of the summer season. "He said, 'I'll give you an hour to think about it,'" Gose recalled. Her answer came quickly. Within days, she was backstage meeting the horses, learning how to
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↘Continued from 29 ride bareback and climbing the towering platform for the very first time. Then came another surprise. "They said, 'Okay, you're doing the 2 o'clock show.'"
Trusting the horse
The horses were brought to the top of the tower on a hand-cranked elevator before calmly walking onto the diving platform some 45 to 50 feet above the water. Most people assume fear would have been overwhelming. Gose says otherwise. "The reason I wasn't afraid—I love animals, and I knew he would take care of me. I just had that feeling." Her first horse, a dark brown horse named Gamal, gave her confidence from the very beginning. Once the horse placed its front legs onto the padded diving board, she knew it was ready. As horse and rider entered the water, Gose tucked tightly against its neck, holding the reins until they resurfaced and climbed the underwater ramp. Then came the applause. Stepping off the horse onto the platform, she took a bow before returning backstage to her dressing room. "It was an exciting feeling," she said.
Becoming part of the show
Gose's workday revolved around multiple performances beginning around 10 a.m. and continuing until the final nighttime show. The evening dives were the hardest. "The people looked like ants, and it was so dark outside," she recalled. "And the tower would weave back and forth because it was windy." Between performances, she explored Steel Pier with her three young children, who often spent the day in her dressing room. They rode the diving bell and watched her husband perform. The pier itself was a world unto its own, filled with caricature artists, glassblowers, novelty attractions and performers from around the globe. "It was like its own little community with fellow performers speaking French or Romanian," she said. Her very first day also made her something of a celebrity. Walking along the Boardwalk after her debut dive, a family rushed over asking for her autograph. She offered her husband's autograph, too. His response still makes her laugh. "I've been diving for 10 years. I do 100-foot dives into the open ocean," he joked. "Nobody's ever asked me for my autograph. My wife goes on her first day..." Later that summer, comedian
Barbara Gose prepares to dive off the towering platform in 1966. Soupy Sales mentioned her on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson after seeing her perform at Steel Pier, another unforgettable brush with fame.
More than a thrill
Despite the attraction's daring reputation, Gose says she and the horses were remarkably safe. Only once did a horse briefly roll onto its side after entering the water. Unlike humans, horses can struggle to flip upside, and their powerful legs could cause a traumatic brain injury. Following her training, Gose stayed clear until the animal regained its footing. "When you've had an accident, you've got to get back in that car to drive," she said. "That's the way I felt." She completed the season without injury. Although she only rode for one summer, she says the experience changed her forever. "I wanted to show myself if I had the guts to do it," she said. "I've always wanted to do it." Gose shared that she was invited to join a traveling circus after the season ended, but she needed to focus on her motherhood responsibilities and her husband’s surfing career. Above all, she would soon become pregnant with her fourth child.
Remembering a different Atlantic City
As an Atlantic City High School graduate (Class of 1957), Gose also remembers an Atlantic City that has largely disappeared. She recalls boarding houses lining States Avenue, small cottages instead
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of towering condominiums, bustling sidewalks and families filling the Boardwalk every summer. She later worked at Planters Peanuts, with a glassblower on Steel Pier and eventually spent more than 40 years as a hairdresser in Margate before moving to Florida in the 1990s. “I would make seventy-five cents per hour, and end the week with $150 in my pocket,” she said. “That was a big deal!” After she divorced her husband, Gose cared for her children while living in Smithville, running a hair salon in Margate. She also crafted hobby horses which she sold to children.
A living piece of Shore history
The diving horse act remains one of Atlantic City's most recognizable traditions. Created by William "Doc" Carver in the late 19th century and later popularized at Steel Pier by his daughter, Lorena Carver, the attraction drew millions of visitors over several decades. Gose knew Lorena personally and believes her role in creating one of America's most famous entertainment acts deserves greater recognition. Today, Gose returns to South Jersey each summer to visit family in Cape May. She currently resides in northwest Florida. Nearly six decades after her final dive, she can still hear the cheers echoing across Steel Pier. Today, she is one of the few people left who can say she experienced the legendary diving horses not from the grandstands, but from atop of the horse as it dove through the air.
July 16, 2026
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Ocean City Fishing Club to host 49th annual Children's Surf Fishing Tournament
T
he Ocean City Fishing Club (OCFC), in partnership with the City of Ocean City, invites young anglers to participate in its 49th Annual Boys & Girls Surf Fishing Tournament on Saturday, Aug. 8, beginning at 9 a.m. at the north-end beach near the Longport–Ocean City Bridge.
The free event, open to boys and girls ages 8 to 16, is expected to attract 150 participants. Every child
who pre-registers and fishes will receive a gift bag. All registered anglers can participate in a free raffle at the conclusion of the awards ceremony, where several prizes will be awarded. Parents or guardians are encouraged to register in advance through the Ocean City Fishing Club website and complete the required waiver forms before arriving to help reduce registration lines on tournament day. "This tournament continues to grow each year, and registering online with completed waiver forms will help families get on the beach and fishing more quickly," said Ed Parkinson, OCFC trustee and tournament chair. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. Fishing starts promptly at 9 a.m. and concludes at 11 a.m., followed immediately by the awards ceremony. The tournament will be held rain or shine. Participants must bring their own fishing rod, reel and tackle. Fresh bait is optional because every angler will receive a FishBites bloodworm sample pack. Parents may assist children
vision, with first- and second-place prizes awarded. An electronic scoring system will speed the awards presentation, while OCFC volunteers will assist participants with baiting hooks, untangling lines, measuring catches, recording results and safely releasing fish. Every participant will receive a 31-inch flexible Release Ruler displaying current New Jersey fishing regulations to support the tournament's catch-measure-andrelease format. The event is made possible through the dedication of OCFC volunteers, generous sponsors, local businesses and club members. Last year, nearly $9,000 in fishing equipment, accessories and prizes was distributed to participating children. Founded in 1913, the Ocean City Fishing Club is the oldest continuously operating fishing club in the United States. For registration and additional information, visit www.oceancityfishingclub.com or contact Ed Parkinson, Tournament Chair, at 215-680-6652 or eparkinson718@gmail.com.
ages 13 and younger with casting, but youngsters must catch their own fish. New this year, tournament awards will be based on age groups. The only exception is the 14-16 division, which will compete as a single combined group. Awards will be presented based on total fish inches in each di-
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Ocean City Theatre Company presents 'Fame The Musical' at the Ocean City Music Pier
T
his July, the spotlight shines on the next generation of performers as the Ocean City Theatre Company (OCTC) presents "Fame The Musical," featuring the talented students of OCTC’s High School Junior Company. Performances will take place on July 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Ocean City Music Pier. Based on the iconic film and television series, "Fame The Musical" is an electrifying celebration of ambition, creativity, and the pursuit of dreams. The story follows a group of students attending New York City’s renowned High School for the Performing Arts as they navigate the challenges of adolescence while pursuing careers in music, dance, drama, and the arts. Featuring the Academy Award-winning title song and an unforgettable score, "Fame" continues to inspire audiences around the world. OCTC’s High School Junior Company provides aspiring performers with a professional-level theatrical experience, offering rigorous training and performance opportunities in a supportive and inspiring environment. Through this program, students work alongside experienced directors, choreographers, music directors, and production staff while developing valuable artistic and life skills. “'Fame' is a story about passion,
perseverance, and finding your voice,” said Michael Hartman, artistic director of Ocean City Theatre Company. “Our High School Junior Company students have dedicated countless hours to bringing this powerful production to life, and audiences will be amazed by their talent, energy, and commitment. We are also excited to announce that this production will feature a live band!” Tickets are $15 and are available at oceancitytheatrecompany.com. Audience members are encouraged to purchase tickets early and support the incredible young artists who make this production possible. Of note, this production does contain some adult themes.
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Volunteer's marsh cleanup uncovers a 53-year-old message in a bottle
By Sarah Fertsch
S
ome treasures they're written in pencil on a scrap of notebook paper, tucked inside a glass bottle and forgotten for more than half a century. That's exactly what happened when Avalon resident John Kauterman was volunteering with the Tidelands Initiative during a wetlands cleanup in Upper Township earlier this month. As he collected litter from the marsh, one bottle stood out from the rest. It wasn't just another piece of debris. Inside was a handwritten note dated Aug. 20, 1973. The message, signed by 9-year-old Laurie Blair Brown, was delightfully dramatic: “Please notify my family that a band of ruthless sponge fishermen are forcing me to dive for them in shark-infested waters.” Kauterman posted photos of the discovery in the Ocean City Facebook community, asking a simple question: "Anybody know Laurie?" Within days, thousands of people had shared the post, hoping to solve
the mystery. The answer came from an unexpected place. Laurie's younger sister, Allison Spencer, recognized the name immediately and contacted Kauterman. The story, it turned out, was even sweeter than anyone expected. Although Laurie signed the note, Spencer revealed that she had actually written it while her older sister dreamed up the outlandish tale. During a family vacation in Ocean City, the girls slipped the message into a bottle and tossed it into the water, imagining it might someday be discovered by a stranger. They never expected that "someday" would arrive more than five decades later. The reunion was bittersweet. Laurie died in 2017, never knowing her childhood adventure would one day become an internet sensation. But thanks to Kauterman's curiosity— and the reach of social media—her family was able to reconnect with a cherished piece of her childhood. After the story spread, Spencer and other family members met with Kauterman in person to see the bot-
tle and its remarkable contents. The emotional reunion brought together complete strangers connected by one small act of childhood imagination. For Kauterman, the discovery happened while doing something much less glamorous: picking up trash. The Tidelands Initiative organizes volunteers to remove litter from South Jersey's fragile marshes, protecting habitats that serve as nurseries for fish, shellfish and countless bird species while helping buffer coastal communities from storms and flooding. The South Jersey discovery isn't the only remarkable bottle to capture New Jerseyans' imaginations in recent years. In 2025, another long-lost message resurfaced after an even more ambitious voyage.
A Dr Pepper bottle tossed overboard in 1971 by 18-year-old John Forsyth while working aboard the Miss Belmar about 90 miles east of Belmar Inlet was discovered on a remote island in the Bahamas 54 years later. After Utah beachcomber Clint Buffington shared the find on social media, the note was traced back to Forsyth's family. Experts believe the bottle may have traveled thousands of miles through the North Atlantic Gyre before washing ashore, underscoring the unpredictable journeys these simple messages can take—and the enduring connections they create decades later. Additionally, last year, Stone Harbor resident Doug Basile discovered a bottle while picking up litter on the beach, expecting to throw away another piece of trash. Instead, he found a heartfelt letter written by a woman named Kim reflecting on what she believed might be her final beach day with her 85-year-old mother. The message struck an especially personal chord: Basile had recently lost his own 85-year-old mother. What began as an ordinary beach walk became, in his words, a deeply serendipitous reminder that sometimes a simple note can find exactly the person who needs to read it. In an era dominated by smartphones and instant communication, a handwritten note carried by the tides accomplished something remarkable: it reunited a family with a memory they thought had been lost forever.
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July 16, 2026
Randy Quaid named 2026 Night in Venice grand marshal
Actor will hold Q&A after special screening of ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’
T
he Night in Venice Committee is excited to announce that actor Randy Quaid, beloved for his unforgettable portrayal of Cousin Eddie in “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation,” will serve as the grand marshal for the 2026 Night in Venice celebration on Saturday, July 25, 2026. This year's Night in Venice theme, "Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights,” celebrates America's 250th anniversary while bringing the magic of Christmas in July to Ocean City's spectacular annual boat parade. Quaid's appearance is the perfect addition to this one-ofa-kind patriotic and holiday-themed celebration. Before leading the evening’s Actor Randy Quaid, who played Cousin Eddie Night in Venice festivities, Quaid in “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation,” will appear at a special screening will serve as the grand marshal for the 2026 of “National Lampoon's Christmas Night in Venice. Vacation” at 12 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at the Ocean City Tabernacle. City's signature traditions, and we're Following the screening, fans will thrilled to welcome Randy Quaid to have the opportunity to enjoy a live help us celebrate this year's unique Q&A with Quaid, where he will share theme,” Mayor Jay Gillian said. “His stories from his career and discuss iconic role in one of America's favorthe making of the holiday classic. ite holiday movies makes him the perGuests may also purchase exclusive fect grand marshal for a celebration that combines patriotism, Christmas VIP meet-and-greet tickets, which spirit, and one of the country's most include a commemorative digital spectacular boat parades.” photo with Randy Quaid and an autographed commemorative movie Night in Venice is one of the poster. Fans are encouraged to come largest boat parades in the country, dressed in their best Cousin Eddie-infeaturing decorated boats, themed spired attire. bayfront homes, live entertainment, “Night in Venice is one of Ocean and a spectacular fireworks display.
This year's “Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights” theme promises a memorable celebration honoring both the nation's 250th anniversary and the joy of the holiday season. Movie screening sponsors include the Stainton’s Family of Stores. Tickets for the movie screening featuring a live Q&A with Quaid and VIP tickets are now available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice. Entries are currently being accepted from all those who want to participate in the annual bayfront celebration. The boat parade and decorated bayfront home contests provide a
chance to be part of the highlight of the summer season in Ocean City. Thousands of spectators line the bayfront, and thousands more attend private parties at homes along the route from the Ocean City-Longport Bridge to Tennessee Avenue. The theme is always optional, and entries for boats and homes are currently being accepted online at ocnj.us/niv or by calling 609-399-6111. A spectacular fireworks display over the bayfront will be launched after the boat parade. This year’s Night in Venice presenting sponsors include ACME and OCNJ Watersports.
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he 2026 Night in Venice celebration on July 25 will feature former Philadelphia Phillies all-star John Kruk and actor Randy Quaid as grand marshals. This year's theme, “Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights,” celebrates America’s 250th anniversary while bringing together two of the nation's favorite traditions: patriotism and Christmas in July. Quaid will appear at a special screening of “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation” at 12 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, at the Ocean City Former Phillies player John Kruk will join actor Tabernacle. Following the Randy Quaid as grand marshal for Ocean City's screening, fans will have the 2026 Night in Venice. Photo credit: The Team opportunity to enjoy a live Q&A with Quaid, where he will share Ocean City has a full calendar of stories from his career and discuss special events lined up for the coming the making of the holiday classic. week, including: Guests may also purchase exclusive VIP meet-and-greet tickets, which Thursday, July 16 include a commemorative digital ● Market Days: Ocean City’s downtown shopping district photo with Randy Quaid and an aualong Asbury Avenue features tographed commemorative movie entertainment, face-painters, poster. Tickets for the movie screening featuring a live Q&A with Quaid balloon-sculptors and more from and VIP tickets are now available at 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice. ● Mummers Night: String bands strut the Boardwalk between A spectacular fireworks display over the bayfront will be launched Sixth Street and 14th Street beafter the boat parade. This year’s tween 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Night in Venice presenting sponsors ● USLA Mid-Atlantic Craft Regioninclude ACME and OCNJ Wateral Lifeguard Championships: Watch lifeguards and former sports. Movie screening sponsors include the Ocean City Tabernacle guards of all ages compete with and the Stainton’s Family of Stores. boats, boards and other rescue
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craft in a regional championship. The competition starts at 10 a.m. at 58th Street Beach.
Friday, July 17 ●
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Beach Exercise — Low Impact: Free program (no registration needed) on the beach at Sixth Street starts at 8 a.m. Bring a towel and a friend. Walking Club: Ocean City’s Walking Club invites people of all ages and fitness levels to join them to walk the length (or any portion) of the Boardwalk. Meet at the Ocean City Music Pier at 8 a.m.
Sunday, July 19 ●
‘Simply the Best — the Music of Tina Turner’ with the Ocean City Pops: Performed by a trio of singers led by two-time Grammy Award-winning vocalist Tamika Lawrence and Broadway’s Shaleah Adkisson, this Pops show celebrates the stories and songs that made Tina Turner one of the greatest performers the world has ever known. The show is at 7:30 p.m. at the Music Pier, and tickets are available at oceancityvacation. com/boxoffice.
Monday, July 20 ●
Judy Collins and Richard Thompson in Concert: Inspired by artists
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such as Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, singer-songwriter Judy Collins has released over 25 studio albums and numerous live and compilation albums, including singles such as ‘Someday Soon’ and ‘Turn! Turn! Turn!’ Richard Thompson is a world-renowned singer-songwriter who was named by Rolling Stone as one of the “Top 20 Guitarists of All Time. Tickets available at etix.com. America 250 — Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show: Ocean City will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation this
summer with a weekly patriotic drone show over the beach and boardwalk south of Sixth Street. The show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the sky and creating animations that salute America. The 15-minute shows will be held after dusk (for this week, approximately 9 p.m.) on seven Mondays through August 24. The weekly event is made possible through a $25,000 grant from the Cape May County Board of Commissioners, sponsorships from Boardwalk merchants and city funding.
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By Tammy Thornton
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Little Gardens Club of Atlantic City 2026 garden tour
unny skies set the scene for a perfect summer day for The Little Gardens Club of Atlantic City 2026 garden tour, held on Sunday, July 12. Attendees of the self-guided tour were able to wander through and admire private gardens in Egg Harbor Township and Linwood. Each garden provided visitors with fresh and unique ideas that they could bring home to implement into their own gardens. Beginning with a mainstay of the tour, Linwood Arboretum on Wabash Avenue presented their latest project that uses drone technology to map the growth and health of plants. Minutes away, the lovely outdoor space and gardens of Christine Herron and Tom Tobolsk were filled with flowers and herbs alongside a koi pond and a nearby The garden of Aileen Privitera and Derek Nye with a peaceful lake side view. fairy garden. On the bay side, the peaceful backyard gardens of Julianne Japanese maples, lavender, and hywhere the backyard retreat of Pat and Paul Weaver featured a pond filled drangeas surrounded the pond. and Bill Hurst began with a ¼-acre with koi happily swimming among Just a short drive away, the tour natural pond. An eye-catching fountowering water cannas in bloom while continued on to Egg Harbor Township tain drew visitors in as they watched
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artist Susan E. Daly capture the scenic view with her live painting during the tour. After passing the arbor covered in trumpet vine, nature was on full display as the Patcong Creek provided the backdrop to the backyard garden. Only minutes away, attendees of the tour found themselves at the lake view garden of Aileen Privitera and Derek Nye. Large stone steps led the way to the soothing water of the Beaver Lake running along the property. Guests could take a peaceful moment to enjoy the garden filled with plants highlighted by interesting foliage, while the red flowers of Crocosmia and the purple flowers of tall verbena (Verbena bonariensis) provided pops of color. Continuing the tour took fellow gardeners to the front and backyard sanctuary of artist Marie Natale. An arbor of giant crepe paper flowers welcomed guests to the “Artist’s Garden Atelier” and led to woodland garden paths lined with natural timbers. Natale’s watercolor artwork was displayed on easels
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Koi swim happily in the garden pond of Julianne and Paul Weaver. among the curves of the pathways which meandered back to the yard. For the grand finale, the multiple gardens of Pat and Scott Warner surround the 1905 Victorian that the Warners have called home since 1969. These long-curated gardens are filled with collected treasures and unique features that would take countless visits to fully appreciate. Each twist and turn was full of surprises. Scott displayed his 1928 Chevy Sports Cabriolet Coupe with a rumble seat filled with a basket of flowers. Guests were caught off guard as the “ding-ding” driveway signal bell sounded among the circle of vintage gas pumps behind the Chevy. But this was only the beginning of wonders as the path leading behind the house turned into a labyrinth of passageways with interest at each step of the way. Water features could be seen and heard throughout as the meandering paths which led to various vignettes framed
by wrought iron fences filled with coneflowers, trumpet vines, roses, hydrangeas and unending perennials with water fountain focal points. This garden was a real treat and a visual labor of love. Each year, the tour seems to take on an unintended theme. This year, water was predominant in each of the featured gardens, starting with a daylong rainstorm that fed the thirsty gardens on the eve of the tour. Koi ponds, fountains, lakes, creeks, and trickling waterfalls set the peaceful mood for an enchanting summer garden tour full of wonderful water features and flowers. We would love to hear from our readers. Send your comments, questions, and pictures to: shorelocalgardener@gmail.com. Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
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Pulled muscle or something more? What groin pain may be trying to tell you Views from the Shore By Brian Cahill
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efore I interviewed Dr. Matthew J. Finnegan, a robotic general and colorectal surgeon with Shore Physicians Group, I thought about the times I had dealt with groin pain myself. Like many people, it usually followed a trip to the gym, a soccer game, or some other physical activity. I always assumed it was a pulled muscle that just needed a few days of rest. Dr. Finnegan told me that while muscle strains are certainly a common cause of groin pain, persistent or worsening pain can sometimes signal a more serious condition. Knowing what to watch for can help you seek treatment before a relatively minor problem becomes a major one. One of the most common causes of groin pain is an inguinal hernia. This happens when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. Some people notice a small lump near the belt line or a dull ache that comes and goes, especially when lifting, coughing, exercising, or standing for
long periods. What surprised me most was learning how many people simply live with these symptoms. Dr. Finnegan told me he often sees patients who have ignored a small lump because it wasn't painful enough to worry about. Then they decide to get back into the gym, lose weight, help someone move furniture, or simply become more active. Suddenly, that area that barely bothered them before becomes painful. That doesn't necessarily mean it's a hernia. One of the most interesting things I learned during our con- Dr. Mathew Finnegan versation was the difference between a true hernia and what's That distinction matters because commonly called a sports hernia. the treatments are completely difDespite the name, a sports hernia ferent. isn't actually a hernia at all. Instead, A sports hernia often responds it's a tear of the muscle or tendon in well to physical therapy and rehabilitation. A true inguinal hernia, on the the groin, often involving the large other hand, is a weakness in the abadductor muscles that athletes rely on for cutting, sprinting, and changing dominal wall that generally requires direction. surgery because the opening will not repair itself. Dr. Finnegan also pointed out that not every lump in the groin is a hernia. Swollen lymph nodes, cysts, skin infections, and benign fatty growths called lipomas can all appear in the same area. That's why he recommends having any lump evaluated if it continues to grow, persists for several weeks, or causes pain. While he recommends prompt evaluation for lumps around the size of a golf ball, he emphasized
that even smaller lumps shouldn't be ignored if they concern you. Perhaps the biggest takeaway from our conversation was what can happen when a true hernia is left untreated. In some cases, part of the intestine can become trapped inside the hernia. What might have been a relatively straightforward repair can become a much more complicated operation requiring emergency surgery. The lesson I took away from my conversation with Dr. Finnegan is simple: don't automatically assume groin pain is just a pulled muscle. If the pain doesn't improve, keeps returning, or is accompanied by a lump, nausea, fever, changes in bowel habits, or increasing discomfort, it's worth getting checked out. Most causes of groin pain are treatable, and sometimes seeking care sooner rather than later can make all the difference. To schedule an appointment with Matthew J. Finnegan, MD, Robotic General & Colorectal Surgeon with Shore Physicians Group, call 609365-6239. Dr. Finnegan treats patients age 18 and older at 649 Shore Road, Somers Point. Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He also volunteers on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and the Somers Point Economic Advisory Commission. Brian is also an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
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The meat allergy caused by a tick bite By Robin Stoloff
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t sounds like something out of a science fiction movie: a tiny insect causing an allergy to red meat. If you love a tasty sirloin or a juicy burger fresh off the grill, you probably can’t imagine never eating them again. Yet that's exactly what's happening to a growing number of people, and it’s not caused by something in the food. It’s caused by a tick bite. It's called alpha-gal syndrome, and it develops in some people after the bite of a Lone Star tick. The CDC estimates that as many as 450,000 Americans may be living with alpha-gal syndrome. However, the actual number isn't known because the condition isn't tracked nationwide and many cases likely go undiagnosed. The good news is that not everyone bitten by a Lone Star tick develops the allergy. Researchers are still learning why certain people develop symptoms while others never do. Here in New Jersey, we can breathe a little easier. The state re-
Lone star tick Photo credit: Stamford Health ported 374 cases in 2024, a relatively low number, although health officials say growing awareness is helping more people recognize the condition and take steps to prevent tick bites before they become a problem. Alpha-gal syndrome can be difficult to recognize because, unlike most food allergies, reactions don't happen right away. They often occur three to six hours after eating, making it difficult to connect dinner with symptoms that appear later that night.
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After a Lone Star tick bite, some people become allergic to a sugar molecule found in beef, pork, lamb and other mammal-derived products. Red meat is the most common trigger, but dairy products can also cause reactions in some people. About half of people with alpha-gal syndrome can still enjoy dairy without problems, while others may react to foods like milk, cheese or ice cream. Symptoms may include hives, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or, in rare cases, a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Researchers recently documented what is believed to be the first reported death linked to alpha-gal syndrome after a New Jersey man experienced a severe delayed allergic reaction. While tragedies like this are extremely rare, they remind us that unusual allergic reactions after eating red meat or dairy shouldn't be ignored. If you experience unexplained allergic symptoms after eating red meat or dairy, especially after a tick bite or being outdoors, talk with your healthcare provider. A simple blood test can often confirm the diagnosis. Whether it’s alpha-gal syndrome or Lyme disease, the best way to prevent tick-borne illness is to take some simple precautions. Fortunately, they don’t have to be complicated. Wear long sleeves and pants when
July 16, 2026
walking through wooded or grassy areas, use an EPA-registered tick repellent and yes, tuck your pants into your socks to reduce your risk. It may not win any fashion awards, but it works. You can also lower your risk even more if you stay in the center of trails whenever possible, avoid tall grass and shrubs, wear light-colored clothing so ticks are easier to spot, shower within two hours of coming indoors and perform a thorough tick check after spending time outside. Planning a long hike or working all day in the yard? Consider treating your clothing and outdoor gear, never your skin, with permethrin. Used as directed, it's recommended by the CDC because it kills ticks on contact and keeps working through several washings. Just let treated clothing dry completely before wearing it and remember that wet permethrin is toxic to cats until it fully dries. For a more natural approach, products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) have been shown to provide good protection against
ticks. Other essential oils, including cedarwood, geranium, peppermint and citronella, may offer some repellent properties, but they haven't been proven to work as consistently. If you are often in areas where ticks are common, don't rely on essential oils alone. When checking for ticks, pay close attention to the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, around the waistline and behind the knees. If you find a tick attached, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible and pull straight
upward with steady pressure. Then wash the area with soap and water and watch for a rash, fever, flu-like symptoms or unusual reactions over the next several weeks. Don't forget about your pets. Dogs and outdoor cats can bring ticks into the house even when we've been careful ourselves. Regular tick checks and veterinarian-recommended preventatives help protect both our furry companions and our families. None of this should keep us indoors. Our beautiful beaches, trails, parks and backyards are meant to be enjoyed. So go ahead and take that hike, work in the garden or fire up the grill. With a little awareness and a few simple precautions, we can safely enjoy everything a New Jersey summer has to offer. Robin is a former television reporter for NBC News 40. She currently hosts a podcast and radio program called Living Well with Robin Stoloff. It airs Sundays at 10 AM on Lite 96.9. You can email Robin at livingwellwithrobin@gmail.com
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A mission of empowerment and support: A conversation with Claudia Ratzlaff, former CEO at AVANZAR Coastal Conversations with Alanna Stoloff
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ome people find their life's work almost by accident. Claudia Ratzlaff found hers nearly 40 years ago and never looked
back. When she joined what was then the Atlantic County Women's Center, now known as AVANZAR, in 1986, she began a career dedicated to standing beside survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking, helping them rebuild their lives when everything else had been taken from them. Over the next four decades, she helped guide the organization through tremendous growth, ultimately serving as its chief executive officer before retiring in June 2026. Her leadership helped transform AVANZAR into one of the region's most vital safety nets, providing survivors with not only emergency shelter and crisis support, but also a pathway toward safety, dignity and independence. I spoke with Claudia about AVANZAR's remarkable growth over the years, the challenges survivors continue to face today, and what it will take
for our community to keep showing up for those who need us most. This conversation is especially meaningful as it reflects on her extraordinary career and the legacy she leaves following her recent retirement. Before we get to that, mark your calendar: on Friday, Aug. 7, from 6 to 10 p.m., AVANZAR will celebrate “51 Years of Empowerment” at The Wave at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Guests can enjoy an evening of delicious food, a cash bar, chef-crafted cocktail and mocktail tastings, live music and basket raffles, all while supporting AVANZAR's ongoing mission to empower survivors and strengthen our community. Get tickets here: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/ w78Tfw?vid=1rcmmr. Here are some excerpts from our Coastal Conversation: AS: What inspired you to pursue a career in advocacy and nonprofit leadership, and what led you to become CEO of AVANZAR? CR: I always felt compelled to be an advocate for vulnerable populations and decided to pursue a degree in social work. I had the opportunity to work at the New Lisbon Developmental Center for a year and then came to
2000 Pleasant Avenue in Somers Point , NJ Salt Creek Condominiums and Triad Associates have announced that Preliminary Applications are currently being accepted for their Affordable Sales Program, in Somers Point, NJ. To be eligible for an affordable housing sales unit in this region, your household must fall within the established regional income limits listed below.
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The Atlantic County Women's Center, now AVANZAR, in 1986. AS: For readers who may not be familiar with AVANZAR, can you tell us about the organization's mission and the communities it serves? CR: AVANZAR works to fulfill a mission to empower individuals and families by working to secure their physical safety, emotional well-being, individual freedom and economic equality. We are the lead agency in Atlantic County for domestic violence and sexual assault victim services. We provide workforce development services in Atlantic and Mercer counties, early childhood education support services through the Grow New Jersey Kids Technical Assistance in seven southern counties and statewide services for child victims of human trafficking. AS: AVANZAR has evolved significantly over the years. How has the organization grown, and what are some of the most important services it provides today? CR: Our core services throughout our history are 24/7 crisis hotline for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, emergency shelter, transitional housing, advocacy services and counseling. We have added programs such as PALS- Peace A Learned Solution for child victims of domestic violence and their non-offending parents, Abuse Intervention Program services seeking to end recidivism of offenders of domestic violence, sexual violence prevention services that focuses on supporting the community to promote healthy relationships among young people. Our most recent addition is a housing readiness program that focuses on supporting individuals to gain and retain housing through advocacy and individualized support. AS: Domestic violence, sexual violence and human trafficking remain critical issues. What are some of the biggest challenges survivors face when seeking help? CR: Economic and housing insecurity keeps vulnerable families from achieving personal safety and sustainable self-sufficiency.
AS: How does AVANZAR work to empower survivors and help them rebuild their lives? CR: Through client centered trauma informed programming that provides unconditional positive regard to all, offering information, resources and referrals for necessary wrap around services, advocating for them within systems and assisting them to see choices that are available to them. AS: What role do community partnerships play in advancing AVANZAR's mission? CR: We could not succeed without a community of service. No one organization can do it all and Atlantic County as a committed community of organizations and individuals working to improve the quality of life for all. AS: Can you share a success story or accomplishment that highlights the impact AVANZAR has had in our region? CR: The success story is AVANZAR's story. A 51-year history of answering the hotline, providing free and confidential services, shelter and crisis outreach to area hospitals, police stations, and family and municipal courts. Countless individuals and families have been supported in their darkest hours because the community supports the work we do. AS: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future of AVANZAR, and how can the community support its mission? CR: AVANZAR is looking to expand our reach by adding volunteers, and individual and corporate donors to ensure our work can move forward. We need the community to partner with us to end interpersonal violence. With Claudia at the helm, it's easy to see why AVANZAR has been trusted by this community for more than five decades. Her steady, unwavering commitment to survivors reflects the spirit of the organization itself, one built on showing up, again and again, for people in their hardest moments. A heartfelt thank you to Claudia Ratzlaff for sharing her time and her insight into the work AVANZAR does every single day. If you're looking for a way to give back locally, her closing message says it best: this is work that takes an entire community, and there's a place in it for all of us. 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.
July 16, 2026
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The great beach tent debate comes to Ocean City By Sarah Fertsch
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cean City is considering a new ordinance that would prohibit camping and sleeping in public places, including beaches, parks and other city-owned property. The proposal comes as Jersey Shore communities continue grappling with the growing presence of beach tents, overnight camping equipment and oversized shade structures that many officials say have changed the character—and safety—of the shoreline. If adopted, the ordinance would prohibit people from camping or sleeping on public property and would also prohibit leaving camping equipment or personal belongings unattended. While Ocean City officials have emphasized that the measure is intended to preserve public spaces and discourage overnight encampments, it also reflects a broader conversation happening up and down New Jersey's coastline about how beaches are being used. For generations, a day at the Jersey Shore meant a beach chair, colorful umbrella and cooler. It also
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typically includes a snoozing sunbather lounging on a towel. Today, many beaches look noticeably different. Large canopy tents, pop-up shelters and enclosed beach tents have become increasingly common over the last decade. Families appreciate the additional shade, particularly for infants, older adults and beachgoers trying to escape the increasingly intense summer sun. But lifeguards, emergency responders and municipal officials have raised concerns that the structures can obstruct sightlines, crowd beaches and make it more difficult to respond during emergencies. In some communities, the tents have grown so large that they resemble temporary campsites rather than day-use shelters. The issue gained widespread attention in recent years as videos and photographs of sprawling "beach camps" circulated on social media, prompting many municipalities to revisit their regulations. Ocean City is far from alone. At least 23 Jersey Shore communities either ban or significantly restrict beach tents and canopies.
Rules vary from town to town. Some municipalities prohibit enclosed tents altogether, while others allow only small open-sided canopies. Several communities also restrict tent size or prohibit structures during guarded beach hours because they can interfere with lifeguards' visibility. Communities with restrictions include Sea Isle City, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Wildwood Crest, Cape May, Long Beach Township, Mantoloking, and Bay Head. The differing regulations mean visitors should always check local rules before setting up a tent. Beach patrols across New Jersey have repeatedly pointed to safety as the primary reason behind tent restrictions. Even relatively small shelters can create blind spots that prevent lifeguards from seeing swimmers in distress. During busy weekends, rows of canopies can also make it harder for emergency personnel to transport rescue equipment across the sand. Strong coastal winds present another hazard. Every summer, beachgoers witness umbrellas and lightweight tents becoming airborne during sudden gusts, creating dangerous projectiles capable of causing serious injuries. While beach tent regulations have focused primarily on daytime recreation, Ocean City's proposed ordinance addresses another concern entirely: overnight camping and sleeping on public property. It's worth noting that the proposed ordinance is not intended
to prevent a beachgoer from dozing off while enjoying a day at the shore. Taking a nap in a beach chair or on a towel remains a common summertime activity and, by itself, is generally not the focus of the proposed regulations. Instead, the ordinance is aimed at overnight sleeping or establishing temporary camps on public property with sleeping bags, tents, cots or other camping equipment. The distinction is one of intent and duration: resting during a day at the beach is still part of the traditional shore experience, while using public beaches and parks as overnight accommodations would be prohibited under the proposed law. With regulations varying from one beach town to the next, visitors are encouraged to review local ordinances before bringing tents or canopies to the shore. What may be permitted in one municipality could result in a warning—or a request to remove the structure—in another. As New Jersey beaches continue welcoming record numbers of visitors each summer, many municipalities are trying to strike a balance between providing comfort for families and maintaining safe, open shorelines for everyone. Ocean City's proposed ordinance represents another step in that ongoing effort, reinforcing a message many Jersey Shore communities are adopting: beaches are meant for enjoying the day—but not for setting up camp.
July 16, 2026
Coffee Hub creates a neighborhood gathering place in Egg Harbor Township Business Buzz By Rich Baehrle
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or Coffee Hub owner Cassandra Ferro, opening a coffee shop was about more than serving beverages. It was about creating a welcoming place where neighbors could gather, reconnect and enjoy a sense of community. Located at 6105 W. Jersey Ave., Suite 6, in Egg Harbor Township, Coffee Hub celebrated its grand opening in Januaryof this year. Since opening, the café has become a popular destination for residents looking for handcrafted coffee, light fare and a comfortable place to meet friends or work remotely. Its motto, "Sip, Stay, Smile," reflects the atmosphere Ferro set out to create. Originally from New Castle, Pennsylvania, Ferro moved to New Jersey as a young child. She graduated from Oakcrest High School before attending Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. Her hospitality career began as guest services manager at the
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Sheraton Hotel in Atlantic City before she opened CJC Coffee & Gifts, which operated inside the Claridge Hotel. After living in Egg Harbor Township for more than 20 years, Ferro said she realized the community lacked a neighborhood coffee shop where people could slow down and enjoy face-to-face conversations. "I love coffee and conversations with family and friends," she said. "There wasn't a neighborhood coffee shop where people could gather, put their phones down and enjoy meaningful face-to-face conversations." The storefront was built from an unfinished shell, allowing Ferro to design the café from the ground up. Today, the space features comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi and a large mural that adds color and character to the interior.
Customers use the café as a place to meet with friends, catch up on work,
read or simply enjoy a quiet break during the day. Coffee Hub serves Lavazza coffee, offering espresso drinks, cappuccinos, lattes, cold brews and a rotating selection of specialty beverages. New signature drinks are introduced every two weeks. The menu also includes fresh pastries, muffins, açaí bowls, Bassett's Ice Cream and other light refreshments. The café employs five baristas who focus on friendly service and consistency. A customer loyalty rewards program and gift cards are also available. While quality coffee remains at the heart of the business, Ferro said creating connections within the community has always been the primary goal. Coffee Hub is located at 6105 W. Jersey Ave., Suite 6, Egg Harbor Township. For more information, visit coffeehubeht.com.
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Art meets science at The Shores this summer By Delaney Crawford
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rising junior at Lehigh University is spending her summer with new friends while living at The Shores, a senior living community in Ocean City. Leah Strasser is currently studying cognitive science with a concentration in cognitive neuroscience, along with minors in studio arts and health medicine and society. She heard about the opportunity to live and work at The Shores for the summer and jumped at it, thinking it would be the perfect fit to combine her passion for art with her neuroscience interests. She teaches various art classes to residents at The Shores, offering sessions that are accessible to everyone and that anyone can join. When asked why she decided to take this job and live at a senior living community, she said, “I mean getting to live a few blocks from the shore didn’t hurt, but I’ve always been very close with my grandparents and I’ve always gotten along well with older people. Since being here I have made a lot of friends.” Strasser shared that while the
community and residents themselves have been great, she was initially excited about what this opportunity presented for her academically and professionally. “In the initial interview, they really dove into my angle that not only is this good for their well-being and creativity, but also the neuroscience that can go behind it,” Strasser said. “They sort of saw my vision and neuroscience angle that I was hoping to bring in and let me run with it.” Strasser shared that these art classes are great for the residents at The Shores because they allow them to use creativity as a form of self-expression while also giving them a sense of community. Not only are they gaining the benefits of learning something new, but they are also meeting new people, socializing and creating in an expressive environment. Two current residents and avid participants in Strasser's classes, Joseph Walters and Priscilla Jackson, had nothing but glowing things to say about both the classes and Strasser herself.
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Walters shared that he started doodling during the COVID-19 pandemic, realized how much he enjoyed it, but also realized he didn't know much about art. “When I started taking the classes with Leah, I noticed that each class had a learning process. We would do new skills and I felt like I was taking things away from the class. I built an interest in it and now I schedule everything else I do around here around the art classes because I enjoy it so much,” Walters said. “The enthusiasm that Leah brings in is great, she has a personality where she makes you feel comfortable no matter what level your art’s at.” “I have found after every single class that I leave happy. They’ve always offered art classes here and I never went to any of them because it didn’t interest me, but these classes are so interesting and good,” Jackson said. “Leah has us thinking, has our minds going the whole time we're working and it's wonderful. There is always a cognitive thing working while we’re painting.” While the residents praise Strasser's classes, she credits them right back, saying they've taught her even more. “I learn lessons from their lives and stories. Just seeing people willing to try new things at an older age is great. I’ve really learned and grown into myself more,” Strasser said. “I’ve grown into my teacher’s voice and learned how to be more expressive. This community is so supportive, and I’ve learned a lot about myself and about life.” To showcase all that Strasser and the residents have created throughout the summer, The Shores is hosting the Flow State Art Gallery on July 21 from 2 to 4 p.m. Strasser has held onto every piece of artwork created this summer, treating the gallery as a celebration of the creativity, growth and connections that have
developed throughout her classes. The gallery will be open to the public, giving the community a chance to see firsthand what the residents have accomplished. “It’s going to be a celebration of what these guys have done,” Strasser said. “A way to show how we united the community through art.” Strasser admitted that when she first came into this experience, she wasn't sure if it would directly correlate with her career path. Once she arrived, she realized she would gain something even more valuable, the human aspect of connection and learning how to work with people. “I’ve always loved art, and always searched for that connection between neuroscience and art,” Strasser said. “Being in a place as supportive as here has allowed me to delve into my interests and connect the two. Now, as a career path, I know I can do something with the two together and see the impact of this. It’s sparked a passion for combining them in a setting like this.” Speaking on the connection between the two and what art really gives these residents, Strasser shared, “Art and creating use self-expression, motor skills and dexterity. I think everyone deserves to express themselves. Even if there are verbal or physical challenges, art gives them a way to still express themselves.” She also added, “[By] using their hands to create, these novices experience all these things that research has shown: It’s good for their brains and good for them to learn something at this age.” For Strasser, what began as a summer internship blending art and neuroscience has become something much bigger. Through each class, conversation and painting, she has seen firsthand how creativity can strengthen minds, build friendships and foster confidence. As the summer comes to a close, the artwork hanging in the Flow State Art Gallery will represent more than colorful canvases, but as a reminder that learning, creating and finding community have no age limit. 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.
July 16, 2026
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Entertainment & Dining at the Shore By Steffen Klenk
Top Weekly Entertainment Picks
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rom beachside concerts to laugh out loud comedy, there’s something for everyone to do this weekend. Plus, see a stellar array of award-winning musicians in Atlantic City and cool off at the inaugural Water Ice Festival. Read all about it in the Top Weekly Entertainment Picks. Who: John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band Where: Somers Point Beach When: Friday, July 17 Time: 7 p.m. Website: www.tonymart.com Grab your beach chairs and blankets and head to the William Morrow Beach for the Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point. This week, enjoy a sensational show featuring
John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band, playing the original "Eddie and the Cruisers" soundtrack live. The concert will open with Dead Reckoning as they present “Bearly Stoned”, a tribute to the Rolling Stones.
Who: Adam Lambert Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino When: Friday, July 17 Time: 9 p.m. Website: www.theoceanac.com/ adam-lambert
Get ready for an unforgettable night of powerful vocals and electrifying performance as Adam Lambert returns to Atlantic City. The Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter
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JULY 18 | 8PM
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July 16, 2026
Website: www.theoceanac. com/water-ice-festival Cool off this weekend at the inaugural Water Ice Festival. This celebration of one of the region’s most popular frozen treats will bring over 30 water ice vendors from across the tri-state to showcase traditional and innovative flavors. Bring your taste buds and sample a variety of refreshing creations, plus vote for your favorites.
has captivated audiences around the world with chart-topping hits and a dynamic stage presence. Who: Weird Al Yankovic Where: Borgata Music Box When: Friday, July 17 Time: 8 p.m. Website: https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/ event-center/weird-al-yankovic.html “Weird Al” Yankovic is known for entertaining audiences with an array of classic hits and rare fan favorites.
to the stage. See Weird Al’s Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour for one night only.
With his longtime band, this multimedia comedy rock show brings delightful cover songs and full-scale laughs
July 16, 2026
Who: Craig Shoemaker Where: Celebrity Theatre at the Claridge When: Friday, July 17 & Saturday, July 18 Time: 8 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m.
Saturday Website: w w w.claridge.com/ events-promotions
Comic legend Craig Shoemaker brings his iconic set to the historic Celebrity Theatre this weekend. Best known for his role in the 1997 hit movie "The Love Master," Shoemaker has built a strong following for nearly three decades, delivering big laughs and sharp storytelling with every show. What: Water Ice Festival Where: The Park at Ocean Casino When: Saturday, June 18 Time: 2 – 5 p.m.
What: Knee High Knuckle Buster Micro Wrestling Where: Ducktown Tavern When: Saturday, July 18 Time: 6 – 10 p.m. Website: www.kneehighac.
com One of the most unforgettable summer traditions return as Knee High Micro Wrestling celebrates ten years at the Ducktown Tavern’s outdoor “Back Duck” arena. This larger-thanlife event will feature four matches, including an all-out royal rumble bout. Fans will enjoy high-flying action, along with photo opportunities, appearances from special guest, and interactive activities.
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↘Continued from 51 Who: Steve Hytner of Seinfeld in Margate Where: Dominick Potena PAC When: Saturday, July 18 Time: 8 p.m. Website: www.comiccure.com/margate Seinfeld fans: get ready for a night of laughter, fun, and nostalgia as Steve Hytner, best known for his role as Kenny Bania, performs live at the Potena Performing Arts Center in Margate. Hytner is one of America’s best stand-up comedians and most recognized character actors. The event will benefit Reed’s Farm and the Humane Society of Ocean City. What: The Quincy Jones Experience Where: Superstar Theater at Resorts When: Saturday, July 18 Time: 8 p.m. Website: www.resortsac. com/events-and-promotions/the-quincy-jones-experience/ The timeless music of legendary composer and producer Quincy Jones will be brought to life as Dave Damiani and the No Vacancy Orchestra deliver the songs
and stories honoring Jones’ career. Damiani will be joined by guest vocalist Elliott Yamin of "American Idol" and Ms. Monet of "The Voice." What: Tropicana Fireworks Where: Tropicana Casino and Resort When: Saturday, July 18 Time: 10 p.m.
The Atlantic City beach and boardwalk will light up in a dazzling display of color. Gather your friends, family, or special someone and enjoy a night under the stars watching this spectacular fireworks display. The show will be set off on the beach at Iowa Avenue and can be seen along the world-famous Boardwalk. Website: www.visitatlanticcity. com/event/tropicana-fireworks-series/7221/
Who: Buju Banton and Stephen Marley Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
When: Sunday, July 19 Time: 7 p.m. Website: https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ buju-banton-and-stephen-marleyroots-and-rhymes-tour Feel the rhythm of the summer and transform yourself to the islands as Buju Banton and Stephen Marley combine forces for their Roots and Rhymes Tour. Audiences will enjoy an incredible night of reggae, pairing a socially conscious sound with Grammy Award-winning artistry. Fans won’t want to miss this soulful summer concert experience.
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July 16, 2026
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Record release party for ‘The Pendulum Swings’ by Deardarkhead this Thursday at Anchor Tune In Turn On With Doug Deutsch
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Redhead, Beach House, M83 and Wild Nothing, mastered the album. It will be released on the band's own Fertile Crescent Records label. Wondering where the band's unusual name came from? It was inspired by Samuel Ferguson's 1867 Irish poem, Cean Dubh Dilis. There's no doubt Deardarkhead is excited to debut the new album before hometown fans. "We are beyond excited to be back at Anchor Rock Club for our record release show," Weiss said. "We've got a great lineup planned." The evening will feature DJ Bob Portella of WLFR 91.7 FM, who has hosted Transmission Radio since 1985, spinning records throughout the night.
s I sit here listening to advance tracks from "The Pendulum Swings," the 10-track instrumental album by longtime Atlantic City indie rock band Deardarkhead, I find myself preparing for the band's album release party Thursday, July 16, at Anchor Rock Club in Atlantic City's revitalized Orange Loop. Naturally, I wanted to learn more about this intriguing trio, whose sound blends shoegaze, dream pop, psychedelic rock and post-punk. So, Tune In Turn On reached out to drummer Robert Weiss, whom I've known for years. "'The Pendulum Swings' is a collection of both older and newer material that we are very proud of," Weiss said. "Each song has its own distinct vibe, but together they make up the DDH sound. The final and title track, 'The Pendulum Swings,' is one of our newer songs, but emotionally and thematically it perfectly summed up everything the band has been through over the years. It felt like a statement." In addition to Weiss on drums, Deardarkhead features guitarist Kevin Harrington and bassist James Malizia, who joined the band after "The Pendulum Malcolm Tent performs at the Jersey Gumbo Cookoff/Louisiana Swings" was completed, replacing Brandon Howard. Also performing are The Falling The group originally performed as Out, featuring members of several a four-piece with vocalist Michael longtime Philadelphia and South JerAmper, who departed in 2009. Since sey bands, including The Improbables, then, Deardarkhead has been an The Justines, The Blessed Muthas, all-instrumental band. The Tone Bandits, The Flyswatters Recorded at Miner Street Recordand The Midnight Beat. The group ings in Philadelphia, "The Pendulum combines strong vocal harmonies Swings" was produced, engineered with generous doses of reverb and and mixed by Brian McTear and Amy fuzz. Morrissey, whose credits include The Philadelphia-based Bitter Bitter War on Drugs, Kurt Vile and Sharon Weeks, led by McTear and Morrissey, Van Etten. Grammy-nominated enalso will perform. Joined by former gineer Joe Lambert, known for his Improbables drummer Jeremy Grites, work with Animal Collective, Blonde the band blends indie folk, avant-gar-
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July 16, 2026
de noise rock and Americana gether" to close his set at the annual Jersey Gumbo into an emotionally rich indie-rock sound. Cook-Off and Louisiana We also asked Weiss Music Festival, presented about the current state of the by Tony Mart Presents. Backed by Charlie Wigo independent music scene. Is it promising or prohibitive? IV and the Bearly Stoned "The indie music scene is band, Tent reminded the stronger than it's ever been crowd why he's long been in South Jersey," Weiss said. a favorite on the region"There are far more bands al music scene. He has now than when we started in opened for The Ramones 1988. Anchor Rock Club has and performed at the been a huge win for Atlantic legendary City Gardens in Trenton. City-area indie fans, and the crowds just keep getting Reggae-rock fans also bigger. Other venues like have two strong concert The Seed Brewery, Obscura options this weekend. Brewing Co. and Little Water Dirty Heads and 311, joined Distillery also support original by Ocean Alley and Rome, music, and it's great to see bring their "So Glad You people coming out." Made It" Tour to Ocean Making a living as an inde- Deardarkhead performs at Anchor Rock Club Thursday, July 16, an Album Release Party for "The Pendulum Casino Resort on Saturpendent musician, however, Swings." Photo by Rob Weiss day, July 18. On Sunday, remains difficult. July 19, Buju Banton and "Streaming has changed the entire The Falling Out, Bitter Bitter Weeks, za with Cherry Hill's The Modbeats Stephen Marley bring their "Roots music industry," Weiss said. "Bands DJ Bob Portella and special guests and The Spots. You'd have to drive and Rhymes" Tour to Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. don't make much money selling reThursday, July 16, at Anchor Rock more than an hour in almost any diUntil next week... cords anymore. Most income comes Club, 247 S. New York Ave., Atlantic rection to catch bands of this caliber, from constant touring and selling City. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Advance so support the independent venues Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, merchandise. It's possible to make it, tickets are $16.35. bringing original music to the area. but it's tough, even if you get lucky. Rock accordionist Malcolm Tent, which since 1995 has been servicing For Deardarkhead, success is about Tune-Ups always an entertaining storyteller, nationally touring acts, and working delivered a rousing, Velvet Underlongevity and continuing to release Another standout show at Anchor record release campaigns for clients. Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalthe music we want to make." Rock Club arrives Saturday, July 18, ground-inspired version of "We're Doug@gmail.com Deardarkhead performs with featuring Philadelphia's Super BonanGonna Have a Real Good Time To-
July 16, 2026
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Smithville Inn chef crowned 2026 Gumbo King at Jersey Gumbo Cook-Off
By Cindy Christy Fertsch
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taste of New Orleans came to the Jersey Shore on Monday as hundreds gathered at The Point Tiki Bar for the annual Jersey Gumbo CookOff & Louisiana Music Festival.
and friendly culinary competition as local chefs vied for the coveted title of 2026 Gumbo King. Executive Chef Philip Gormley of Smithville Inn successfully defended his title, earning the judges' top honor with his signature lobster gumbo, a rich, creamy creation infused with
The People's Choice Award went to Gregory's Chef Ryan Bakley for his smoked Cajun sausage and chicken gumbo.
Hosted by Tony Mart Presents, the event featured an afternoon of unlimited gumbo tastings, live music
Cajun spices. The People's Choice Award went to Chef Ryan Bakley for his smoked
(609)271-9658 56
Cajun sausage and chicken gumbo, with a lively second-line-style perwhich proved to be a crowd favorite formance. during the public tasting. Festivalgoers sampled a variety The competition featured a diof gumbos throughout the afternoon verse field of chefs, each putting a unique spin on the Louisiana classic. Executive Chef David Goldstein of the American Culinary Federation Chefs Association of South Jersey prepared a traditional chicken and sausage gumbo using his signature spice blend. Chef Mohammad of The Golden Pyramid showcased Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, while Gregory's Restaurant & Bar returned as a former People's Choice winner. Northend Grill made its competition debut with a barbecue-inspired gumbo, and retired surgeon Dr. Raymond Talucci of Wildwood Crest entered the event with his own original recipe. In addition to the culinary competition, guests enjoyed more than six The coveted title of 2026 Gumbo King went to Execuhours of live entertainment tive Chef Philip Gormley of Smithville Inn. celebrating the sounds of New Orleans. Soul Project NOLA before judges selected the overall headlined the festival with its signawinner. The event concluded with live ture blend of funk, R&B and Crescent music overlooking Somers Point's City rhythms. South Jersey favorite historic bayfront, continuing a traDead Reckoning also performed, dition that has become one of the joined by Margate accordionist Malregion's signature summer food and music festivals. colm Tent. The Plaid Salmon Horns Photos by Steffen Klenk. added to the festive atmosphere
July 16, 2026
Live & Local Music Calendar
Thursday, July 16
Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club Deardarkhead w/ The Falling Outs, Bitter Bitter Weeks, DJ Bob Portella 7:30 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Angeloni’s Club Madrid Kiara Vos 6 p.m. 2400 Arctic Ave. Bar One at Resorts Karaoke w/ DJ Joe 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk
The Deck at Golden Nugget B Street Band 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Yani. 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Steal the Sky 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Linwood Fox Den at LCC Tony Pontari Duo
6 – 10 p.m. 500 Shore Rd. Margate Tideline Joey DeNoble 4 – 7:30 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 That 70’s Band 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Maya Santarpio Trio 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Andy Frankel 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Gregory’s Will Murray. 6 p.m. 800 Shore Rd. Josie Kelly’s Toni Teschner & Billy Walton 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Sensational Soul Cruisers 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.
Friday, July 17
Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club 90’s Night w/ DJ Sleep Until Dark 8 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Bally’s Beach Bar Party Till Dawn 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Bar One at Resorts Beth Tinnon 6 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Borgata B Bar Gypsy Wisdom Trio 7:30 – 11 p.m. Modern Luxe Trio 11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Go Ham Duo 7 p.m. Garden State Radio 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Lisa Bouchelle 6 – 10 p.m. Shorty Long & The Jersey Horns 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Deck at Golden Nugget Don’t Call Me Francis
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8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Embers the Band 5 – 8:30 p.m. Steal the Sky 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The West at Caesars Crashed Chords 10 p.m. 2100 Pacific Ave. The Yard at Bally’s Winslow: Eagles Tribute 9 p.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Jamison 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township The Roost Pub & Grill Glenn Roberts 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 500 St. Andrews Dr. Galloway 279 Social Aaron & Eve 7 – 10 p.m. 279 S. New York Rd. McGettigan’s Indelible Groove 7 – 11 p.m. 500 S. New York Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Lenahan Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Memories My Hero Zero 8 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave. The Lot at Tomatoes Kat Rivers 6 – 9 p.m. 212 N. Washington Ave. Tideline Nick Sbaffoni 4 – 7:30 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Ventura’s Greenhouse Tiki Bar Steve Moore & Company 7 – 10 p.m. 106 S. Benson Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Lovelace 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay The Company 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap That 70’s Band 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway
July 16, 2026
Crabby Jack’s Jeff X 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s Born to Run Down the Dream 8:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Jumper 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Tuckerton The Lizzie Rose Music Room Johnny Kasun’s Jim Croce Tribute 7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St.
Saturday, July 18
Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club Super Bonanza w/ The Modbeats, The Spots 6 p.m. Dale! A Latin Dance Party 10 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Bally’s Beach Bar New Normal 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Bar One at Resorts Steve Tulli 6 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Borgata B Bar Adam Holcombe Trio 7:30 – 11 p.m. Who Brought the Dog Trio 11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Borgata Beer Garden Kristen & The Noise 1 – 5 p.m. 1 Borgata Way Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Lulu Duo 7 p.m. Liquid A 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s Tom Malandro 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1900 Pacific Ave. Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Megan Knight Band 5 – 9 p.m. Code Templeton & Co. 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. Steel Pier No Clue Duo. 7 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget The Deck Band 2:30 – 6:30 p.m. Run Down Romeo 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Band of Make Believe 5 – 8:30 p.m.
July 16, 2026
Sky City Social 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The West at Caesars Level Up 10 p.m. 2100 Pacific Ave. Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino P-Funk Trio 3:30 p.m. Amy Faden Duo 9 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Special K 1 – 5 p.m. Don’t Call Me Francis 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Galloway 279 Social Good Delivery 7 – 10 p.m. 279 S. New York Rd. La Masa Tequila and Taco Bar Beth Tinnon 6 – 9 p.m. 325 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd. Margate Memories Fat Mezz 8 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave. Sunrise Tequila Bar Kim MacKinnon Duo 1 – 4 p.m. 9700 Ventnor Ave. Tideline Zach & Tim Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Bar None 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Radio Revolution 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap That 70’s Band 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Floating Holidays & Zach Teti 1 – 4 p.m. Matt Adams Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Andy Frankel 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Gregory’s Rick Kauffeld. 6 p.m. 800 Shore Rd. Josie Kelly’s The Turtle Heads 9 p.m. 908 Shore Rd.
The Point Legacy Band 7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Tuckerton The Lizzie Rose Music Room Streetlife Serenade: The Billy Joel Experience. 7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St.
Sunday, July 19 Atlantic City Bally’s Beach Bar Bar None Band 2 – 6 p.m. Tailspin 6 – 10 p.m. 1900 Pacific Ave.
Borgata Beer Garden Gab Cinque. 1 – 5 p.m. 1 Borgata Way Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Dueling Pianos. 8 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Camille K 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.
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↘Continued from 59 The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Gilligan 4 – 7:30 p.m. Event Horizon 8:30 – 11:30 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Incognito 1 – 5 p.m. Goody Blue Shoes 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township EHT Vagabond Dead Reckoning 6 – 10 p.m. 3016 Ocean Heights Ave. Galloway McGettigan’s Nancy Malcun 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 500 S. New York Rd. Margate Maynard’s Cafe Eric Henriksen. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Aaron & Eve. 6 – 9 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Tideline Matt Speak. 1 – 4 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Philly Keys. 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay 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 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s Shaun Durnin. 9 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. Tuckerton The Lizzie Rose Music Room Heather Maloney & Hayley Reardon. 7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St.
Monday, July 20
Atlantic City Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Brooke DiCaro. 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave.
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The Deck at Golden Nugget Red 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Dane Anthony Band 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 One Hot Mess 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Mike Bracey 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway
Photo credit: Triple Rail Turn Facebook
Tuesday, July 21
Atlantic City Bar One at Resorts Karaoke w/ Kelli Glover 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1133 Boardwalk Steel Pier Bar None Duo 7 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Hawkins Cove 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Daddy Pop 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House The Lenahan Band 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Margate Tideline Rob Silvers 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris 7 – 9 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap One Hot Mess 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Jeff X 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s DJ Special K 5 – 9 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Richie Angelucci
7 – 11 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.
Wednesday, July 22
Atlantic City The Deck at Golden Nugget Triple Rail Turn 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Turning the Tide 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Sidestory 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Margate Bocca Live Jazz with Bob Sterling & The Bocca Boys 7 – 10 p.m. 7805 Ventnor Ave. Tideline Kat Rivers 6 – 9 p.m. 9317 Amherst Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Open Mic Night w/ Blue Eagle 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Jay Gentile 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Cosmic Charlie 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway 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. Tuckerton The Lizzie Rose Music Room Blues for Greeny w/ Dude Cervantes & The Panchos 7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St. Events subject to change.
July 16, 2026
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Atlantic City Headliners Saturday, July 18 Dirty Heads and 311
▶5:30 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Quincy Jones Experience feat. Dave Damiani & No Vacancy Orchestra
▶9 p.m.
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Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
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Sunday, July 19
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▶7 p.m.
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▶8 p.m.
Borgata Event Center Bingo Loco
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Matt Rife
▶7 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Super 70s Show feat. Super Trans Am
▶9 p.m.
Superstar Theater at Resorts Lil Mo Mozzarella
▶7 p.m. & 9:15 p.m.
Celebrity Theatre at the Claridge
Saturday, July 25 Shakira
▶8:30 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Matt Rife
▶7 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Dick Fox’s Golden Boys
▶4 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Michael Blaustein
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Borgata Event Center The Machine Performs Pink Floyd
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Golden Nugget Atlantic City Lil Mo Mozzarella
▶7 p.m. & 9:15 p.m.
Celebrity Theatre at the Claridge
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July 16, 2026
Northfield's local favorites worth the stop
Grub Club By Marcella Curcio
W
hether you're heading to the Jersey Shore for a summer getaway or making the drive back toward the Greater Philadelphia area, Northfield has become one of those towns that's easy to pass through — but worth slowing down for. While neighboring shore towns are often highlighted, Northfield has built a neighbor-town vibe with a collection of locally owned
restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and dessert shops that have become staples for residents and visitors alike. As someone who spends a lot of time traveling between Pennsylvania and South Jersey, I have seen my family develop a few traditions along the way. Some places are where we celebrate birthdays, others are our dependable dinner stops after a long drive, and a few have become mandatory whenever we're craving something sweet. Here are some of the Northfield favorites that continue to keep us coming back.
Carluccio's Coal Fired Pizza pasta dish One of those traditions starts at Carluccio's Coal Fired Pizza. For my family, it's our go-to stop for casual yet high-quality Italian food when traveling back and forth between the shore and the Philadelphia suburbs. The menu features everything you'd expect from a classic Italian restaurant, from homemade pasta dishes to coal-fired pizzas, making it easy for everyone at the table to find something they'll enjoy. Without fail, one appetizer always makes its way to our table — the eggplant rollatini. Tender, crispy thin slices of eggplant are stuffed with creamy ricotta cheese, topped with homemade tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. It's one of those dishes that's so popular in my family that sometimes my dad orders an extra serving just for himself because he knows the shared plate disappears almost immediately. While we've tried countless menu items over the years, it's that consistency and comforting Italian cooking that keeps us returning. Of course, no trip through Northfield feels complete without dessert. Nothing says summer at the Jersey Shore quite like ice cream, and Jersey Cow has become one of my favorite places to satisfy a sweet tooth. Whether you're stopping after dinner or simply looking for a refreshing treat on a warm evening, the shop consistently draws a crowd. As someone who genuinely loves ice cream, choosing a favorite flavor is nearly impossible because every visit usually ends with a different decision. One thing I never skip, though, is ordering it in one of their freshly made waffle cones. The aroma alone makes it difficult to resist before you
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even reach the counter. The line often stretches outside, especially during the summer months, but everything tastes incredibly fresh and sweet, making the wait worthwhile. For those looking for a lively atmosphere, Ventura's Offshore Cafe offers something for nearly every occasion. The restaurant combines a welcoming crowd with an extensive menu featuring pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, seafood, and rotating dinner specials. Happy hour also brings a selection of appetizers and specialty cocktails that make it a popular gathering place after work or on weekends. When my family visits, we usually turn dinner into a shared experience by ordering several appetizers for the table. Our favorites almost always include the Bang Bang Cauliflower, Coconut Shrimp, and Calamari Fritti. They're the kinds of dishes that disappear quickly as everyone reaches across the table for one more bite. Even after a full meal, dessert is hard to pass up. My personal favorite is the tiramisu. The combination of espresso, chocolate, mascarpone, and airy layers creates a rich yet balanced dessert that's difficult to beat. It's the perfect ending to an already enjoyable meal. If breakfast or lunch is more your style, Carangi's Cafe & Deli has become one of the easiest places to recommend when meeting friends or family.
The relaxed atmosphere and wide-ranging menu make it especially convenient when everyone in the group wants something different. Traditional breakfast favorites like
July 16, 2026
French toast, pancakes, waffles, and omelets share menu space with wraps, sandwiches, and lighter lunch options. Whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast before heading to the beach or meeting someone for lunch, the variety ensures there's something for nearly everyone without having to compromise. For those celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply looking to satisfy a sweet craving, The Bake Works has earned a reputation for beautifully crafted desserts. Over the years, I've ordered The Bake Shop birthday cake with cannoli filling several birthday cakes here, and they've consistently delivered exactbest shareable appetizers on the ly what I envisioned. Every cake has menu. been decorated with a clean, elegant When it comes to my own order, appearance while tasting just as imI almost always gravitate toward the pressive as it looks. shrimp tacos. They're packed with As someone who loves icing, I'm fresh ingredients and bright flavors usually pretty particular about butterthat make each bite feel light while cream, but theirs strikes the perfect still being satisfying. balance. It's sweet without becoming Whether you're stopping in for overwhelming and has a smooth, a casual lunch or dinner, the upbeat fresh texture that complements the environment adds to the overall excake rather than overpowering it. perience. One of my personal favorites has For those seeking a more elevated been their cannoli cream-filled cake, dining experience, La Cucina Ristocombining the flavors of a traditional rante offers classic Italian cuisine in Italian pastry into a celebration-woran atmosphere that's upscale without thy dessert that has become memofeeling intimidating. rable for my family. The restaurant combines attentive For something with a little more service with traditional Italian dishes spice and zest, Taco Lovers Grill while also offering catering options brings colorful flavors and an enfor special occasions and gatherings. ergetic atmosphere to Northfield's Whenever I visit an Italian restaudining scene. rant, seafood usually catches my atThe vibrant décor matches the tention first, and here it's the Risotto bold menu, making it a fun place to di Mare that continues to stand out. gather with friends or family. While Filled with a variety of seafood and there are plenty of traditional Mexserved in a creamy pink rosé sauce, ican-inspired dishes to choose from, it's a comforting dish that brings tothe nachos stand out as one of the gether fresh seafood with rich Italian
flavors. It's the type of entrée that encourages guests to slow down, enjoy conversation, and savor each bite. One of the things I appreciate most about Northfield's restaurant scene is its balance. Within just a few miles, visitors can enjoy everything from handcrafted Italian cuisine and family-owned bakeries to casual taco spots, lively sports bars, neighborhood cafés, and homemade ice cream. Many of these restaurants have become traditions for local families, including mine. Some are places we've visited for years after long drives to the shore. Others have become desti-
nations for birthdays, celebrations, or simply those evenings when no one feels like cooking. In a region filled with well-known shore destinations, Northfield quietly reminds visitors that memorable meals don't always have to come with an ocean view. Sometimes the best dining experiences come from the places where families continue to return year after year — not just because of the food, but because of the memories created around the table. Whether you're passing through or looking for your next local favorite, Northfield offers plenty of reasons to make a stop before continuing your journey.
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July 16, 2026
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The Casino File By Chuck Darrow
The Guess Who and Don Felder wow the crowd at Hard Rock
“You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet,” which received the evening’s first standing ovation (other BTO tunes included “Clap For the Wolfman” and the show-closing “Takin’ Care of Business,” part of a two-song encore that began with yet another Guess Who standard, “No Time”). The Guess Who’s set would have certainly sent the audience home fully satisfied, but the bonus attraction was Felder, who played with The Eagles during their most successful period as a recording
I
t was a grand night for musical baby boomer nostalgia last Saturday as The Guess Who and Don Felder hit the Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. The sold-out crowd definitely got its money’s worth as the Canadian band—more precisely the two leaders of the unit that dominated the turn-of-the-1970s pop charts and five hired guns—and the onetime member of The Eagles served up what, in the words of The Guess Who’s Burton Cumming, were "finger-snapping, toe-tapping” renditions of a jukebox-worth of hits. Currently touring as a team for the first time in more than 20 years thanks to an extended legal battle over ownership of the name “The Guess Who” that pitted them against two former members, guitarist Randy Bachman, 82, and lead-singer/ multi-instrumentalist Cummings, 78, and their quintet of supporting players turned in a fiery, signature-filled set that served as a solid reminder
Randy Bachman (left) and Burton Cummings of The Guess Who onstage at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City that one is never too old to rock & roll. While Bachman, who remained seated through the entire program, displayed impressive guitar chops, it was his partner who proved to be a revelation. Cummings is one of those humans to whom aging appears to be just a theoretical concept. That goes for his
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vocals as well as his physical appearance. Suffice it to say his powerful, clarion singing was not that of a person a couple of years shy of 80, but of someone decades younger as he performed such Guess Who smash hits as “Undun,” Don Felder, a former member of The Eagles, served “These Eyes” and “Laughing,” as The Guess Who's opening act. to name but three. Cummings also proved to be a act: He co-wrote “Hotel California” most agreeable and engaging front and “Victim of Love,” both of which man, chatty and clearly delighted to were satisfyingly rendered during his not only be fronting the band again, nine-song turn that was enhanced by but doing so for an audience whose a musically and vocally sharp trio of high levels of enthusiasm and unbacking musicians. abashed affection appeared to catch Felder’s time onstage also inhim off-guard. cluded superb renditions of “Already Known more as a pop-leaning outGone,” “One of These Nights,” “Heartfit thanks to their prodigious string of break Tonight” and the lesser-known turn-of-the-70s smash hits, the unit “Seven Bridges Road,” which gave as it is currently constituted held its the four musicians a chance to show own as a take-no-prisoners rock & off their formidable vocal-harmony roll band. talents. Metaphorically speaking, the unit In all, Felder was the perfect tawielded a sledgehammer rather than ble-setter for what will unequivocally a scalpel through the overwhelming go down as one of 2026’s best casino majority of the program. If there was concerts. anything missing, it was nuance; dynamics were generally in short supply The Hook update as the group pounded out almost two There’s nothing concrete to rehours’ worth of gritty, punch-in-theport yet, but it appears The Hook, mouth rock. But in the hands of the the $36 million venue built exclusiveexceptionally cohesive band, that was ly to house the variety show of the certainly not a bad thing; to the consame name will remain a part of the trary, it was downright exhilarating. gambling den’s show biz operation As for highlights, pretty much any after “The Hook” variety show ends of the band’s hits qualified, but our its 39-month run on Sept. 6. favorites included “Undun,” before If this turns out to be the case, which Cummings picked up a flute and it’s great news for Our Town’s enadmitted he was “No Ian Anderson,” tertainment scene as the intimate, a reference to Jethro Tull’s legendary state-of-the-art venue is a gem of a leader, a deeply grooved “American performance space and it would be a Woman,” whose extended intro briefshame to see it abandoned. ly quoted The Doors’ “Roadhouse Chuck Darrow has spent more Blues” and Bachman’s rousing rendithan 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos. tion of Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s
July 16, 2026
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Brigantine sets sail for Stars and Stripes on the Bay
By Delaney Crawford
I
n tune with our country's incredible milestone of celebrating 250 years, many towns are keeping the festivities going well beyond the Fourth of July, making it a summer filled with patriotic celebrations. One such town is Brigantine. On Friday, Aug. 8, residents and visitors alike will come together for Brigantine's own version of Ocean City's iconic Nights in Venice with this year's theme, Stars and Stripes on the Bay. For the last six years, Brigantine’s beloved coastal community has transformed its back bays into a floating celebration with a different theme each summer. Previous years have featured pirate adventures, tributes to first responders and other creative ideas, but this year's theme felt especially fitting in order to keep
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celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Joe Martin, who coordinates the event each year, said it continues to grow bigger and better with every summer. "It has evolved so much since that first year," Martin said. "Every year we see more participation and more people coming out to enjoy it." The event features a fleet of
around 50 boats, all decked out in red, white and blue with lights, decorations and plenty of patriotic fun. The boats line up in Brigantine’s Cove before slowly cruising through the island's back bays, putting on a show for spectators along the way. However, the fun isn't limited to just those on the boats. Homeowners along the bay also get into the spirit by decorating their homes, docks and
July 16, 2026
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bulkheads to match the theme. As the fleet passes by, boaters get to enjoy the festive displays while residents on shore cheer them on, creating a celebration for the whole island. Even those who don't live on the water or participate in the boat parade can still be part of the festivities. Friends and families gather along the streets to watch the decorated boats pass by, many dressed in patriotic colors themselves. The energy, excitement and community spirit make it one of Brigantine's signature summer traditions. "This day helps build community spirit," Martin said. "I love just seeing everyone getting involved. Getting the community all together is super rewarding." The community-wide participation extends to Brigantine's local businesses as well. Nearly every business
on the island contributes gift cards, prizes or donations for participants. Awards are presented in several categories, recognizing everything from the best-decorated boats to the most festive waterfront homes and the overall spirit of the event. While the lights, decorations and patriotic displays make for an unforgettable evening on the bay, Martin said the true heart of the event is the sense of community it creates. Neighbors, businesses and visitors all come together for one night to celebrate community and summer. 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.
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July 16, 2026
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Free Outdoor Concerts
Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point Photo by John Loreaux Absecon Concerts in the Park
▶Sunday, July 19, 7 p.m.
Heritage Park Mark your calendars this Sunday for Concerts in the Park in Absecon, sponsored by the Absecon Parks and Playground Committee. Enjoy an evening of live music by the 5 Pints Low Band. Bring a chair and blanket and enjoy a rockin’ good time. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.
Brigantine Summer Concert Series
▶Wednesday, July 22, 7 p.m.
Brigantine Community Center Side Lawn, 265 42nd Street Join the Brigantine Community, Education, and Recreation Department this Wednesday for their outdoor concert series, featuring T.K. and the Howlers. Bring a beach chair or blanket. In the event of inclement weather, the show will be moved to
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July 16, 2026
the Brigantine Community School Auditorium. The Brigantine Summer Concert Series will be held on Wednesdays throughout the season. EHT Rhythm in the Park
with John “Papa” Gros in a tribute to Billy Preston, Allen Toussaint and Levon Helm. Visit www.tonymart.com for more information. Margate Library Park Concert
▶Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m.
▶Saturday, July 25, 6 p.m.
Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater at Tony Canale Park Join Egg Harbor Township Parks and Recreation for their weekly concert series. On July 16, enjoy an evening of live music by 5 Pints Low and mark your calendars as Six Point Cross takes the EHT stage on July 23. It’s Pure AC Concert Series
8100 Ventnor Avenue Join Margate Public Library for an evening of live music featuring Dr. K’s Motown Revue. Bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy a night of rhythm and soul under the stars. Sunset at Ski Beach
▶Wednesday, July 22, 6:30 p.m.
▶Tuesday, July 21, 7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City Spend your Tuesday evenings with a free family-friendly summer concert series hosted by acclaimed bandleader Dave Damiani and the No Vacancy Orchestra. This week, the Benny Benack III Quartet will take the stage. The world-famous singer and trumpet player will kick off the weekly series on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Jazz on the Beach Concert Series
▶Thursday, August 6, 7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City Mark your calendars and join the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation for their annual Jazz on the Beach Concert Series, featuring an eclectic lineup of acclaimed jazz artists and musicians.
July 16, 2026
Longport Beach Concert Photo by Thomas E. Briglia / PhotoGraphics Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point
▶Friday, July 17, 7 p.m.
William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Avenue The Legacy Beach Concerts in Somers Point welcomes world class rock stars John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band to the sand. The group will perform songs from the original soundtrack of “Eddie and the Cruisers” which made Somers Point and Tony Marts famous. The Dead Reckoning will open the concert with a “Bearly Stoned” Rolling Stones tribute. Visit www.somerspointbeachconcerts.com for the full summer lineup.
Longport Beach Concert
▶Saturday, July 18, 6:30 p.m.
33rd Street and the Beach Join Longport Library for a live musical concert on the beach complete with a bonfire. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy the sounds of Lisa Bouchelle on stage. Please call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more. Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk
▶Wednesday, July 22, 7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City The Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk Concert Series welcomes George Porter Jr. & the Runnin’ Pardners, founder of The Meters and Grammy Lifetime Achievement winner, along
Ski Beach, Ventnor Join Ventnor City for their upcoming concert at Ski Beach concert. Mark your calendars for an evening of classic rock featuring red, and a tribute to the women in rock with The Girls Can’t Help It. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m. Ventnor Summer Beach Jam
▶Saturday, July 18, 6:30 p.m.
Newport Avenue Beach Join Ventnor City for their upcoming Summer Beach Jam as they welcome Funk Daddy to the stage. Audiences will enjoy a special evening of party hits and popular favorites. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.
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Discover one of Somers Point’s best pizza spots By Holly Martin
F
or years, Squares and Fare in Somers Point felt like South Jersey's best-kept secret. It wasn't the kind of pizza shop you could simply stop by on your way home. If you knew, you knew. Customers eagerly followed the business on social media, waiting for the next pizza drop and hoping they could claim one before they sold out. Getting your hands on one of their famous pies almost felt like winning the lottery. As someone who had been hearing the hype for years, I couldn't help but wonder what made this pizza so special. Every time another photo popped up on social media, I found myself thinking, One day, I'm going to try it. Thankfully, that day has finally arrived, especially since they have a storefront in Somers Point next to the famous Charlie’s Bar. No more setting reminders or racing through Facebook comments hoping to reserve a pizza. Today, you can simply walk into their cozy Somers Point shop, where you're greeted by friendly faces, the smell of fresh dough baking in the oven, and a
Nathan Rivera adding the finishing touches to the pizzas. chalkboard menu filled with that day's specialty slices. Of course, I couldn't settle for just one. We sampled four different specialty slices before taking home a traditional pie to enjoy later that evening. Every slice shared the same incredible foundation: a light, airy crust with just the right amount of
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crunch, topped with fresh ingredients that packed every bite with flavor. The standout of the day was undoubtedly the Black Truffle slice. Made with creamy vodka sauce, mozzarella, burrata, and finished with black truffle oil, it was rich without being overwhelming. The combination of the silky vodka sauce and earthy truffle created a slice that felt both comforting and elevated. It was one of those pizzas you immediately start planning to order again. Next was the Verdissimo, a white pizza topped with mozzarella, roasted garlic Locatelli cream, spinach, artichoke hearts, and a touch of lemon zest. The roasted garlic cream gave it a deep, savory flavor while the lemon added just enough brightness to balance everything out. It's the perfect choice for anyone who loves a fresh, vegetable-forward slice. Then came the classic Pepperoni. While pepperoni pizza is often loaded with grease, this one was refreshingly different. The small pepperoni cups crisped beautifully in the oven, adding just the right amount of crunch without leaving the slice swimming in oil. It’s simple, classic, and incredibly satisfying. Finally, we tried the White with Burrata. Sometimes less really is more. Creamy cheese, a perfectly baked crust, and a generous dollop of fresh burrata created a slice that let quality ingredients speak for themselves. One of the best parts of the visit was watching the pizzas come together right in front of us. Fresh ingredients were carefully layered onto
each pie before sliding into the oven. Just minutes later, a bubbling hot pizza emerged, and employee Nathan Rivera wasted no time showering it with freshly grated Parmesan. Oh, and fresh basil, literally the plant sitting in its pot on the counter, is added to the top of the traditional pie. "We have the best pizza around," Rivera said with a smile. "The Black Truffle is my favorite." Naturally, I had to ask if there was a secret ingredient behind all the hype. He just laughed and kept the secret to himself. Maybe that's exactly how it should be. What started as a small, homebased operation with a devoted online following has grown into one of Somers Point's most talked-about pizza destinations. Despite the move into a storefront, Squares and Fare has held onto the passion and attention to detail that made locals fall in love with it in the first place. Some places become popular because of social media. Others earn their reputation one slice at a time.
After finally experiencing Squares and Fare for myself, I can confidently say this wasn't just internet hype. From the perfectly baked crust to the fresh toppings and welcoming atmosphere, every bite lived up to the years of anticipation. The secret may be out now, but one thing hasn't changed: Squares and Fare is absolutely worth the wait. 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.
July 16, 2026
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The World Cup of wine and more
any of us have been captivated by the World Cup series that began on June 28 and will conclude on Sunday afternoon, July 19, at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford. At the time of submitting this article only the final four teams are known. I thought it would be fun to research and share with you my recommendations for the wine, beer, and spirits that reflect
the final four countries: Argentina, England, Spain, and France. Argentina is famous for Malbec, even though the varietal originated in Southwest France. Perhaps the most significant person to impact the Argentinean winemaking industry was the French agricultural engineer, Michel Aimé Pouget. It all began in 1853 when the Governor of the Cuyo (central) region, Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, a man who would later become the President of Argentina, sent a proposal to the national Argentinean government to develop
and expand the winemaking industry. Pouget was hired as a viticulture specialist and founded the first agricultural school and vine nursery in Mendoza, Argentina. He introduced numerous French grape varieties — including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Malbec — from cuttings he brought from France. A number of these grapes adapted very well to the terroir and produced wines of excellent concentration and quality. Malbec, or “la uva Francesa,” (the French Grape) as it was known in Argentina, adapted the best. Malbec plantings grew significantly throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries and expanded to many wine regions throughout the country. Michel Aimé Pouget is now known as the Father of Malbec in Argentina and the date he was hired, April 17, is celebrated internationally each year as World Malbec Day. There is no shortage of good Argentine Malbecs, but my two favorites are El Esteco Don David Reserve and Catena High Mountain Vines. Salud! England is not generally thought of as a wine country, but, in the words of Bob Dylan, “the times, they are changing,” and so is the climate. England is now producing sparkling
wine that is gaining global attention. Bride Valley Vineyards was founded in 2009 by Stephen Spurrier, the Englishman responsible for the Judgement of Paris 50 years ago, in which California wines were judged against French wines. Stephen and his wife Bella settled in Dorset, an area with chalk-rich soil similar to Champagne, France. In 2011, the vineyard released its first vintage of Bride Valley Brut, made with estate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier in the Méthode Traditionnelle, like in Champagne. Thanks to a good wine friend, I was able to taste this wine and can assure you that England produces excellent sparkling wine! Of course, I would be remiss not to mention the other adult beverages that England is best known for. London Dry Gin, such as Beefeaters and Tanqueray, is arguably the most famous spirit of England. Ales and Stouts such as Newcastle Brown Ale, Fuller’s ESB, Boddingtons and Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout are known worldwide. Finally, England is also known for hard ciders. Treat yourself and try the Strongbow Gold Dry Hard Cider. It is a real treat and a great choice for the game. Cheers! Spain has great red, white and
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sparkling wines. If you prefer a lighter, fresher, more acidic red, Garnacha is for you. This is the same grape known as Grenache in France and other parts of the world; the terroir of Spain is perfectly suited for this grape. There are many great Garnacha, including Evodia, Gulp Hablo, Lurra and Bodegas Breca Breca. Or, for an excellent full-bodied Spanish red, go with a Tempranillo wine, which have notes of dark fruit, tobacco, leather and baking spices. My favorites come from Bodegas Familia Chivarri. If your preference is a slightly lighter, young wine, choose the Larchago Tempranillo. For a more aged, earthy wine, the Larchago Crianza is a real crowd-pleaser. If you are into well-aged, more traditional Rioja wines, the Larchago Reserva is for you. For a white from Spain, choose Albariño as a wonderful, bright, crisp wine from Rias Baixas in the northwest section of Spain. The Marqués de Cáceres Deusa Nai Albariño is a wonderful example of this delicious, summery wine. Of course, my top choice if you are cheering for Spain is Cava. Cava comes from the Penedes region near Barcelona and is the sparkling wine of Spain. Roger Goulart Gran Reserve
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Extra Brut Cava is an exceptional sparkling wine at a very reasonable price. For me, Cava is the closest thing to Champagne at a fraction of the price. Toast Spain’s team as they do in the Basque region: Topa! France has plenty of wines to choose from and is the birthplace of many of the varietals most familiar to Americans, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s summer, so my $
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choice for a red is a Pinot Noir from Burgundy, such as Domaine Chevrot Bourgogne Hautes Cotes De Beaune. This is the perfect blend of rich dark cherry flavor and the earthiness that gives Pinot Noir its character. If a darker French red is your preference, try the Château Tourteran Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc from Bordeaux. This is a classic left-bank blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Cru Bourgeois
is a prestigious designation for exceptional wines from the Médoc appellation of Bordeaux. This is a must-try for Cab lovers at a price that will pleasantly surprise you. For a French white, grab a Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre, such as the Henri Bourgeois Sancerre. Wines from this region are very popular in the summer for their wonderfully light citrus notes and outstanding minerality. If Chardonnay is your favorite white, raise a glass of Novellum Chardonnay from Languedoc or of Domaine Chevrot Bourgogne Blanc from Burgundy. Of course, if France wins it all, Champagne will be flowing. The choices are numerous, but my favorite is Gonet-Medeville Premier Cru Tradition Brut. It sounds expensive and drinks like the best Champagnes, but at half the price. Sante! Even if World Cup soccer is not your thing, I hope you enjoyed this article and exploring the countries of wine. As always, if you have questions, contact me at dsetley@passionvines. com. Until next time, may the best team win, 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.
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Skate AC's Uptown Takeover returns with worldclass skateboarding, cash prizes and live music By Cindy Christy Fertsch
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n Saturday, July 18, Skate AC will celebrate the one-year anniversary of Uptown Skatepark with its largest Uptown Takeover yet. The free festival, held at Uptown Skatepark, 201 N. Massachusetts Ave., is part of the North to Shore Festival and will feature professional skateboarding demonstrations, live music, art, food vendors, contests, giveaways and family-friendly activities. Presented by New Balance Numeric, the event marks the third consecutive year that professional skateboarder Ronnie Kessner of Tuckerton has brought many of the world's top skateboarders to Atlantic City. This year's lineup includes Brandon Westgate, Ronnie Kessner, Blake Carpenter, Ish Cepeda, Brian Reid, Brian O'Dwyer, Joey Marrone, Steve Carty, John Shanahan and Marcello Campanello, along with surprise guests. Together, the featured professionals reach more than 10 million followers on social media, shining an international spotlight on Atlantic
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City's growing skateboarding community. The day's activities begin with a professional skate demonstration at 2 p.m., followed by a Cash for Tricks Best Trick Contest at 4 p.m. Live music by Pool Scum starts at 6 p.m., with food from SadBoyz, vendor activations and opportunities throughout the day for visitors to meet professional skateboarders. For Skate AC founder and Executive Director Jason Klotz, however, the event is about much more than skateboarding. It's about creating safe, welcoming spaces for young people to gather and feel like they belong. "Kids under 12 gather at playgrounds," Klotz said. "Adults often go to bars or clubs. But teens and young adults don't have spaces where they can simply hang out together. "
stay, participate and build community in a safe environment where they are supported. That vision has become the foundation of Skate AC, the nonprofit organization Klotz leads alongside Rohan Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley. The organization works to strengthen communities through skateboarding, mentorship, education, wellness and the creation of public spaces that provide positive opportunities for youth throughout Atlantic City and beyond. Major sponsors of this year's Uptown Takeover include New Balance Numeric, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Showboat Resort Atlantic City, April Skateboards, Thrasher Magazine, Thunder Trucks, Spitfire Wheels, Timeless, YETI, Pepper Grip Tape, Olympia, the North to Shore Festival,
Klotz believes those years between childhood and adulthood can be especially difficult. Without positive places to spend time, many young people feel isolated or are viewed with suspicion simply for congregating in public. Rather than discouraging them, he wants to celebrate them. That philosophy is reflected throughout Uptown Takeover, from cash giveaways and prizes to free activities designed to welcome skaters of every skill level while creating an environment centered on community, creativity and belonging. Ronnie Kessner, a pro skater who grew up in South Jersey, The mission is also did a backside noseblunt trick on the uptown park's new deeply personal. dice obstacle. Growing up, Klotz recalls frequently being chased away the Inlet Community Development by police and adults simply because Corporation and numerous commuhe was skateboarding with friends. nity partners. Those experiences left him feeling as More than a skateboarding festithough he didn't belong or have value val, Uptown Takeover has become a within the community. celebration of youth, community and Today, he is determined to create the belief that every young person the opposite experience for the next deserves a place where they feel generation. Instead of being told to welcome, valued and free to simply leave, young people are invited to be themselves.
July 16, 2026
Summer movie excitement hits theaters
By Gary Mazin
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ummer means different things to different people. For many, it brings barbecues, beach days and time with family. For movie lovers, it marks the arrival of blockbuster season, when theaters debut many of the year's biggest releases. Local theaters are preparing for one of their busiest times of the year, offering a diverse lineup of action, comedy, family films, science fiction and horror. Whether audiences are looking for superhero adventures, animated favorites or edge-of-yourseat thrillers, this summer's schedule has something for nearly every moviegoer. Among the season's most anticipated releases are "Masters of the Universe" and "Supergirl." Comedy fans can look forward to "The Devil Wears Prada 2" and "Scary Movie," while families can enjoy "Minions & Monsters" and "Toy Story 5." Horror enthusiasts also have plenty to choose from, including "Backrooms" and "Disclosure Day." Summer is traditionally the busiest season for movie theaters. With children out of school and
Tilton Square Theatre in Northfield Photo credit: Tilton Square Theatre Facebook families traveling, theaters often see increased attendance. Rainy weather can also provide a boost as beachgoers and vacationers look for indoor entertainment. The moviegoing experience has evolved significantly in recent years. Many theaters now feature reserved seating, reclining chairs and upgraded digital projection systems designed to provide greater comfort and an enhanced viewing experience. Concessions have also expanded beyond the traditional popcorn, can-
dy and soft drinks. Many theaters now serve items such as pizza, pretzels and other hot foods as they compete with restaurants and other entertainment venues. South Jersey moviegoers have several options. Tilton Square Theatre in Northfield and Ventnor Square Theatre in Ventnor continue to showcase the latest releases, while Regal Hamilton Commons in Mays Landing offers first-run films along with occasional screenings of classic favorites. The IMAX Theatre at Tropi-
cana Atlantic City provides audiences with the opportunity to experience select films on a larger screen with immersive sound. Buying tickets has never been easier. Online and mobile purchasing allows moviegoers to reserve seats before arriving, eliminating long lines at the box office and making it easier to secure tickets for highly anticipated releases. Although streaming services have transformed the entertainment industry by allowing audiences to watch movies from home, the theater experience continues to attract movie fans. The combination of a giant screen, immersive sound and the excitement of sharing a film with a live audience remains difficult to duplicate. As theaters continue investing in technology, comfort and expanded food options, the traditional trip to the movies remains a popular summer pastime for families, couples and film enthusiasts alike. Gary Mazin is a long time Ventnor resident. He has a love of writing, reading comic books and watching movies. He is a published author and is a graduate of both ACCC and New York Film Academy.
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Keeping Max's Magic alive By Delaney Crawford
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rief is a universal human experience that touches nearly everyone in some way. It can be such an isolating and lonely feeling, and there are so many ways people try to combat these ever-present emotions. One such way of dealing with grief comes from Sutton Fineran and Dylan Petro. Sutton’s husband and Dylan’s best friend, Max Fineran, tragically passed away in 2024. Sutton, with a baby on the way, decided to turn her grief into something that would not only honor her husband, but also continue to grow so her son could always have a piece of the father he never got to meet, while helping other grieving families along the way. Enter Max’s Magic, a foundation built to remember Max while making a difference in the community. “My husband was really into giving back to others,” Sutton said. “He was super lovable and always wanted to have fun but also always giving back and being a big part of our community.” Sutton shared that, aside from community, Max also loved Disney
and the beach. Because of that, the two organizations Max’s Magic supports are One Last Wave Project and Snowball Express. One Last Wave Project’s mission is to help grieving families cope with the loss of a loved one who had a deep connection to the ocean or nature. They etch their names onto locally hand-shaped surfboards and carry them out into the ocean to catch a symbolic last wave. Snowball Express is a Gary Sinise Foundation program that creates special Disney trips for military families experiencing the loss of a loved one. “Both of these organizations I felt tied into my husband’s hobbies and things he liked while also helping grieving families, which I unfortunately know firsthand what that feels like and what support is needed,” Sutton said. While the foundation itself is new, both Sutton and Dylan already have goals in mind to continue carrying out Max’s legacy. For Sutton, her main goal is for her son to eventually become a part of the foundation as well. For Dylan, he hopes to bring more events and fun to the organization as
well, sharing the love of summer and the good times that Max loved most. “I hope to make Max’s Magic something that facilitates more joyful experiences in South Jersey. By bringing in local businesses and nonprofits with events and things,” Dylan said. “One big pillar of Max was that he was a huge supporter of everything local and loved South Jersey so much.” While the foundation has already made headway by connecting with and donating to two organizations, they are now diving into the event side with their first kickoff celebration. On Aug. 8, from 4 to 7 p.m., everyone is welcome to head to Sweetwater Marina Deck for the foundation's kickoff event, Sunset Social. They shared that beaches and sunsets were a big part of what Max loved. Summer was his favorite time of year, and he loved any opportunity for a local gathering. The event honors those parts of who he was while also bringing the community together. There will be live local music, food, drinks and raffle baskets donated by numerous local businesses.
Dylan shared that a night like the one planned for Aug. 8 would have been one of Max’s favorite ways to spend a summer evening. Between the beauty of a summer sunset, the fun atmosphere and the gathering of the community, Max’s presence will be felt as the foundation kicks off its mission of making a difference. “My biggest driver through this is my son. My son unfortunately never got the chance to meet my husband, and for me, this was a way for people to come together, for people to talk about my husband and remember him in a way where my son will be able to hear and learn about him,” Sutton said. “Both of these organizations deal with grief and support other families that know what this feels like. Grief feels very lonely most of the time, so if there is something I can do to help and provide a feeling of community I’m more than happy to do that.” 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.
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What you need to know about Trump Accounts By T. Eric Reich
S
ince the passage of the Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA), we have received a lot of questions about Trump Accounts. We first discussed these accounts back in January when they were initially proposed, but now that they are officially available to open, we wanted to revisit the topic and provide an update on how they work and what families need to know. Questions have only increased over the last few months with announcements by both the Dell family and, most recently, by Ray Dalio, that they would make major contributions to these accounts on behalf of eligible children. The Dells have pledged an astounding $6.25 billion ($250 for up to 25 million eligible children), and Dalio pledged $75 million for children in Connecticut, his home state. Several employers have also signed on to make matching contributions to their employees’ contributions, including our own firm, BlackRock, Schwab, BNY Mellon, Dell, and others. So, what is a Trump Account and how does it work? Essentially, it is an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) for children under 18 who have a val-
id Social Security number, without them needing to have earned income to contribute. The government will make a one-time contribution of $1,000 to the account for children born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028. Children’s parents, grandparents, etc., can make their own contributions to the accounts in 2026 up to a combined limit of $5,000 per year, which will index for inflation starting in 2028. Employer matches can be made up to $2,500 per year, but those matching contributions do count towards the $5,000 total limit, unlike government contributions. The good news is that matches are not treated as taxable income to the employee. Contributions to Trump Accounts also do not affect regular IRA contribution limits, meaning that in addition to the $5,000 you can contribute to the Trump Account, you can also contribute up to $7,500 to another IRA. Trump Account contributions are not tax-deductible, as they might be for other traditional IRAs. Account owners should also maintain accurate records of all contributions, including employer matches and other deposits, to help ensure annual contribution limits are not exceeded and to support future tax reporting and account
administration. Logistics of the accounts include no withdrawals before age 18, other than rollovers. Once the child turns 18, the account converts to a traditional IRA. Distributions are allowed, but they follow the same IRA rules, which means unless they meet the strict criteria of exceptions (higher education, first home purchase, or disability), withdrawals prior to age 59 ½ are subject to a 10% penalty along with ordinary income tax. After age 59½, distributions are taxable but no longer subject to penalties. Accounts can be opened now via an online portal at https://trumpaccounts.gov/. There will be a list of funds and ETFs that the accounts are permitted to hold, but will mostly be made up of low-cost index-type funds. Financial institutions offering these accounts will also have recordkeeping and reporting responsibilities to track contributions, balances, and distributions in accordance with IRS requirements. Starting early with investing could be the ultimate benefit. The magic of compound interest is the reason it is so important to start as soon as possible, and Trump Accounts may make starting early even more attractive.
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.
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Step one of teaching dogs to come when called By Heidi Clayton
O
f any obedience-related commands that I teach my dogs, the single most important one is a reliable recall. Teaching a puppy to come to you when called can absolutely save their lives should they escape or get away from you, so I train this more than I train anything else. A reliable recall starts with establishing something seemingly obvious, which is that your puppy knows their name. While this may seem unthinkable, many puppies forget their names when they are not in the kitchen waiting for their dinner. When outside in a more stimulating environment, they may suddenly seem to forget who exactly they are and appear to blow your voice off completely. I start teaching my puppies their names by sitting in front of them and saying their names in the happiest voice I can muster and giving them a little treat while doing so. Also, when praising them, use their name in the praise, such as “Good Bento!” I test their name recognition by saying it when their backs are to me outside in the yard to see if they actually turn their heads completely and look at me. Since your puppy will become more distracted when outdoors, start teaching the steps of a reliable recall inside the house or garage where there are less distractions. I like to build what I call an insurance policy, which is a jackpot of treats delivered to the puppy on a variable reward schedule so that they never know when they are going to hit the jackpot. I also use what some people
would consider a bribe word to pique their interest in me; the word I use is “treats.” I start by sitting away from my puppy and saying their name in my happiest and highest-pitched voice possible. Once the puppy has looked at me, I show them my hand and say the word “treats.” Usually the puppy is very excited to come see what is in my hand and will come running. When they get to me, I give them a jackpot of treats while making a fuss over them. I give the jackpot about every third or fourth time they come when called. That said, always deliver at least one treat with lots of praise in between jackpots. When you move this game outdoors, you will notice that you simply are not as interesting to your puppy as you were inside. Smells and sounds will trump you, so to compete, I have an arsenal of treats ready to deliver. Start again by saying the puppy’s name from a close distance. If they look at you, say the word “treats” and reward them if they come to you. If the puppy does not turn their head and look at you, try closing the distance and making your voice higher-pitched and enticing. One of the most important steps to this game is to not say the word “come” right away. If your puppy is
not turning their head towards you when you say their name, you most certainly should not say the word “come” repeatedly. Doing so makes the word mean they can get to you
whenever they’d like or that they ignore you until they feel like it is OK to do. So start with just a “treat” word, and reward your puppy each and every time they come to you. Making yourself rewarding to come to is the first step to building a reliable recall. Play this game every day. Also, remember to stay tuned for how to phase out treats and add the word “come” to the game. 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
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Condo-geddon? Why condo owners may soon feel the squeeze By Jim Malamut
I
f you own a condo in southern New Jersey, don't be surprised if your HOA fee has gone up recently, or if a hefty increase is headed your way. Take, for example, the Villages at Harding Run in Mays Landing, where residents on social media had reported monthly HOA fees increasing from about $375 to $624 as of July 1. That's an increase of more than 65%! And while every association is different, it's part of a trend playing out across the country. Why the sudden increase in HOA fees? The short answer is that after the tragic Surfside condo collapse in Miami, Florida in 2021, the financial health of condominium associations started to get more attention. Regulators and lenders started taking a much closer look at whether condo associations are properly funding reserves, carrying adequate insurance and planning for major repairs before they become emergencies. Unfortunately, someone has to pay for all of that.
Why HOA fees are climbing
Much of the pressure comes from changes affecting loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the organizations setting many of the standards for conventional mortgages. One of the biggest changes involves reserve funding. Starting in 2027, condo associations must set aside 15% of their annual budget for “reserves” for future repairs and replacements. Previously, condo associations only had to put 10% aside. In New Jersey, associations are also required to do “reserve study” every 5 years and must follow the funding requirements outlined in the report. Many associations are now finding
themselves needing to collect substantially more money from owners as a result. Another change is the significantly increased scrutiny that condo associations have now been facing during the mortgage approval process. Whenever someone buys a condo using conventional financing, the lender reviews the overall financial condition of the HOA, not just the buyer's finances. Mortgage companies want to know whether the association is financially stable, adequately insured and properly planning for future maintenance. In the past, if a buyer put down a larger down payment, they qualified for a “limited” condo review, meaning less questions were asked about the financial health of the HOA. But starting in August 2026, all condo associations will need to comply with the “full” review process and provide detailed information about their finances and operations. That means weaknesses that may have gone unnoticed before could now be exposed. In the past, a larger down payment could overcome inadequate reserves or whether too many owners were behind on their dues, but that is about to change.
What happens if an HOA falls short?
If an association doesn't meet conventional lending standards, the community may be considered "non-warrantable." That's a term most condo owners have probably never heard of, but it can have real financial consequences. A “non-warrantable” condo can still be sold, but financing can be much more difficult. Buyers may need alternative loan programs that often carry higher interest rates, larger down payment requirements, and additional fees. Naturally, that shrinks the pool of qualified buyers. When fewer buyers can qualify, property values may decline. It can also create problems for existing owners hoping to refinance if interest rates fall in the future.
Why condos are different
Many buyers are surprised to learn that financing a condo is more complicated than financing a single-family home. With a house, the lender is primarily evaluating the borrower and the property itself. With a condo, the lender is also evaluating an entire business — the homeowner’s association. If the HOA is involved in major litigation, has deferred maintenance, lacks adequate insurance, has too many delinquent owners, has one entity that owns too many units, or faces critical repairs,
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those issues can affect every owner's ability to obtain financing. Even if your individual unit is in perfect condition, the financial health of the association will impact your ability to sell in the future.
Not all bad news
There is one long-standing condo financing hurdle that has become less significant: the percentage of owner-occupied units versus rentals. In the past, if there were more renters than owners in the HOA then the association could be deemed ineligible. Communities that previously struggled because they had too many rental units will now find it easier for buyers to obtain conventional financing. For some associations, that's a welcome change that could improve marketability.
Is this really "Condo-geddon?"
No, of course not. Condos remain an important part of the housing market, especially for first-time buyers, retirees and anyone looking for lower-maintenance living. They're not disappearing anytime soon. What we are likely to see is a period of adjustment. Some associations will raise HOA fees significantly in order to strengthen their finances. Owners won't be thrilled about writing larger monthly checks, even though those increases may help protect longterm property values. Other associations may try to avoid raising fees. That may feel like a win today, but it could create much bigger problems later if financing becomes more difficult or major repairs can't be funded. There may even be opportunities for investors willing to purchase condos in struggling associations and work toward improving their long-term financial health. But that's not a quick fix, as it can take years for an association to rebuild reserves and restore lender confidence. If you're thinking about buying a condo, don't just look at the kitchen, the view, or the monthly HOA fee. Ask questions like: How many owners are behind on their dues? Does the association's budget have enough for reserves? Are there any upcoming assessments to cover any critical repairs? In today's condo market, buying into the HOA is almost as important as buying the condo itself. Jim Malamut learned the intricacies of the mortgage business under the mentorship of his father, Bill Malamut. Graduating from Rutgers University Business School, Jim quickly established himself, leading their team to become the top lender in Atlantic County.
July 16, 2026
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Hip mobility and the golf swing
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ost golfers are weekend warriors and if there is extra time in anyone’s schedule for golf activities, more times than not this is allocated to swing training. As the last few articles have discussed, physical fitness is equally important. In order to have a world-class swing, the function of one’s musculoskeletal system also needs to be equipped. Golf is a sport that requires strength, power, coordination and mobility; no one of these is more important than the other. This weekly dive into the physical care of a golfer’s body will discuss the importance of hip mobility and stability in all golfers. In the golf community, the importance of spinal mobility and strength is well-documented. There have been numerous social media campaigns since the start of this golf season showing new creative ways to improve spinal mobility and strength. However, absent from these posts have been ways to improve hip strength and mobility; negating altogether the connection between the hip and the spine. The hip and the spine are intricately related. If one has movement issues in one area, it can transmit increased forces along the kinetic (movement) chain. In the presence of hip mobility issues the body increases motion in other joints. The body is almost too good at this compensation and creates more (too much) movement
in order to allow someone to function in a way that seems correct. In the presence of limited hip mobility, there may be excessive forces through the lumbar spine. This can happen at different points in the swing. Limited hip mobility can create issues in the back swing, during the initiation of swing and during the follow through. This also relates to other sporting activities as well. The hip is a joint that has sacrificed mobility for stability. The hip has six prime movements: flexion, extension, abduction, adduction and two forms of rotation (external and internal). The hip’s ability to extend backward, rotate inward and rotate outward are the primary movements lost. A loss of the ability to move the hip backward becomes an issue for the back leg on the swing’s follow through. If that motion is lost, the spine will extend to compensate, and this can create spinal pain. Limited rotational motion of the hip may also create issues during the swing. The compensation could be in the form of excessive lumbar rotation, but as explained earlier, it may also be extension or side bending. With all of that being said, the key point is that hip mobility issues can have profound effects on one’s swing. This is a topic that has been proven in peer review research, finding that golfers with back pain also had limited hip mobility. Hip strength is equally as important as mobility for the golf swing. Golfers that have imbalances in their hip strength will have swing balance,
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July 16, 2026
swing force and overall control issues. During the swing, if the hips cannot control the motion, it may cause the golfer’s body to over rotate and thus overcompensate. The hip is very important when it comes to lower extremity balance. The hip is the second strategy for balance, the first being the ankle. Understanding the importance of hip strength or motor control can help set the foundation for a great swing. Working with a trained physical therapist and a TPI certified swing coach can help to ensure that your mobility and motor control is supremely functional to maximize your swing potential. Physical therapists are experts in movement. A therapist working closely with your current swing practice and exercise regimen
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can help make necessary adjustments to allow one to enjoy the game that we all love a little bit more. SHORE ORTHOPAEDIC UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATES The Board-Certified physicians at Shore Orthopaedic University Associates are trained in the practice of general orthopaedics; additionally each of our doctors has devoted additional training and surgical expertise in orthopaedic sub -specialties. The surgeons at Shore Orthopaedic University Associates are experts in diagnosing musculoskeletal disorders, identifying and treating injuries, providing rehabilitation to an affected area and establishing a prevention protocol to inhibit further damage to a diseased area or component of the musculoskeletal system. SHORE ORTHOPAEDIC PHYSICAL THERAPY Following a thorough evaluation, our licensed therapists provide each patient with an individualized treatment approach. Our ultimate goal is obtaining superior functional outcomes that allow patients to return to a full life of sports, work, and recreation. Christopher C. Hanson, PT, MPT, DMT, OCS, FAAOMPT, is the Center Manager of Shore Orthopaedic Physical Therapy in Cape May Court House. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. To schedule A one-on-one Consultation, call (609) 927-1991.
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Weekly Horoscopes The Cosmic Connection By Ursula Duffy
Rising sign horoscopes for July 16 – 22
Aries: Your desire for more playfulness, self-expression, and joy is amplifying. This change within yourself has a direct dynamic with your community, which may also change to align. Taurus: Expansion in your home and family life may introduce pressure in your professional life. The key to balance is to remain grounded in your authenticity and your heart in both areas. Gemini: Your thoughts, voice, and mindset are roaring with new inspirations. As growth happens, liberating yourself from restrictive perspectives and roadblocks will be necessary. Cancer: There’s a face-off between personal resources and assets and that which you share intimately, or contractually, with another. Protect yourself and don’t relinquish your power. Leo: Personal evolution is becoming at odds with a close friend, partner, or colleague. Do you feel supported? That’s a good indicator of the relationship’s strength. It’s your time to rise up. Virgo: “All the world’s a stage” is the ideal quote to remember at this time. In order to reach the depths of your unconscious and your audience, it’s imperative to enhance your vitality daily. Libra: As you begin attracting more heart-centered, inspiring community, finding the golden nugget is important. The stimulation of your
own creativity and inspiration is the gift. Scorpio: Greater success in the public arena is lining up for you. However, the chapter of transformation in your private life is a longer story. Lean into the best vibrational match. Sagittarius: The learning curves in your life will be requiring a much wider swing. Knock it out of the park by welcoming new experiences and learning the lessons with deeper wisdom. Capricorn: An influx of prosperity comes with doing the work on yourself. The parts of you kept hidden are your gold mine. Excavate, shine, and your self-esteem reaps the rewards. Aquarius: You may notice yourself becoming more magnetic
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than usual. Be open to meeting new people who teach you important lessons about yourself. All relationships are a classroom. Pisces: Move your body and stimulate the energy in your body every day. Practices that engage your vessel and enhance spiritual connection are wonderful ways to achieve balance.
Weekly astrology summary:
Cue up the power dynamics! A very potent cosmic configuration occurs this week as the building face-off between jovial Jupiter in Leo and powerhouse Pluto in Aquarius becomes exact on July 20. Oppositions between planets, especially heavy hitters, create opportunities for balance. It’s a long game with
slower-moving planets, and for context it’s helpful to go back to when the larger cycle between them began. Jupiter and Pluto climbed mountains together, meeting up three times in Capricorn in 2020. They squared off in mid-May 2023, and now they’re opposing each other, balancing out light and shadow to stir something within us personally and collectively. No one alive currently has experienced this opposition! Hone in on the themes, reflect on the timeline, remember what was happening in 2020 and 2023, and retrieve the precious gems hidden just for you in this transit. This opposition will become more intense during the next full moon at the end of July. The sun makes its grand entrance into the heart-centered Leo flames on July 22. Leo shines like the sun from the inside out with warmth, grace, and authenticity. Harness the beaming light and passion of the zodiac season to uncover your golden nuggets and hidden treasures! This week’s horoscopes are focused on the Jupiter/Pluto opposition; 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.
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The other side of Grammy and Poppy’s house 5. We have a life of our own.
By Vincent Malfitano
I
f your parents live at the Jersey Shore, you’ve won the beach house lottery. Your spouse and children will get the best two weeks of summer vacation anyone could dream of. The paddle boards, crab traps and every other beach accessory is rental free, and home cooking waits at the end of every beach day. Grandma remembered your favorite dessert and you even have your own reserved parking spot. What could be better? In a word: you. As a public service to grandparents everywhere, I invite you to take a look at things from their perspective. What follows are a few points to consider. They might even broaden your perspective. Remember, before long, you might be a grandparent with a beach house as well.
1. You are not our life coach.
We don’t care about your crystal meditation, anabolic hot yoga or aromatherapy. We have already made it. We retired at the beach. We know you wouldn’t visit us for two weeks
Maybe it’s a big bocce ball tournament or a pinochle grudge match. But these things are important to us. We may even opt to go to our friends’ party over one of the grandkids’ many events. We actually laugh, tell dirty jokes with our old friends, and even talk politics without yelling at each other. It doesn’t mean that we don’t love you. But we love each other too —
straight if we lived elsewhere. We’re just fine with ourselves.
2. We don’t like your food or your music.
There’s a reason that the sale of old music surpassed new releases about the time you started consuming it. Our music had heart, imagination, depth, and beauty. Yours is a prepackaged assault on our ears. Ei-
ther use headphones or turn that garbage off. Speaking of prepackaged garbage, we are having steak and eggs for breakfast, and chicken, fresh jersey corn and tomatoes for dinner. We don’t want some unpronounceable gut biome, or other organic wonder food from some place we never heard of. We’re happy with what we eat.
3. We are not your kids.
We were not your friends when we were raising you; we were your parents. Our grandkids, however, are a different story. The truth is, we are the people you warned them about. 100% pure bad influence. You can make all the lists you want about the importance of the schedule and no treats before dinner and safety and blah, blah, blah. You may even notice a glazed over look in our eyes about 5 minutes into your lecture. There is an old saying: “The reason grandparents and grandchildren get along so well is because they have a common enemy.” That’s never going to change.
4. Our health is bad.
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In the book, “Conclave,” Cardinal Lawrence asks Cardinal Tedesco how he is. Cardinal Tedesco replies, “At our age, who is well?” This applies to us as well. We cannot always hike or watch too many kids at once or whatever activity you request of us anymore. We don’t want to alarm you with the details and no vitamins or management by you is going to make it any better. Father Time is undefeated. It’s a fact of life.
very much after all these years. We want to go out on a date, without you at times.
6. We will not officiate our kids’ disputes over who gets which weeks during the summer.
Work it out among yourselves and just tell us the results. If you think we have a favorite child, it’s only because we have a favorite child. And it’s probably not you. Still, we don’t want to hear who deserves which week over someone else.
7. Don’t take our stuff. Really.
We know you need a phone charger. So do we. That’s why we bought it. If you take our phone charger, it’s stealing. It doesn’t make it any better that it’s from your parents. In fact, it makes it worse. Any good vacation has a few broken items. Build some extra time into your schedule to fix the things around our house that the grandchildren break.
8. We won’t be around too much longer.
Let’s enjoy a sunset together. Finally, if any of my friends shows this article to any one of my kids, it will be the last thing you do. Vincent Malfitano is the author of Ocean City, New Jersey, America’s Greatest Family Resort: A Crime Novel
July 16, 2026
8-31-26
NAME:_______________________________ DATE:_____________
Shore Local Trivia
Top World Cup Teams
Test Your Local Knowledge 5. This island town has two bridges that cross over the bay to the mainland. a) Margate b) Ventnor c) Ocean City d) Atlantic City 1. The first Philadelphia day trippers arrived by car to the Jersey Shore with the completion of this bridge on July 1, 1926 a) Walt Whitman b) Betsy Ross c) Ben Franklin d) Delaware Memorial 2. This TV talk show host once owned Resorts casino. a) Merv Griffin b) Phil Donahue c) Jonny Carson d) Regis Philben 3. The “Barbary Coast” was an area of this town lined with bars and nightclubs. a) Somers Point b) Sea Isle City c) Atlantic City d) Margate
6. This former shopping mall was built to resemble a cruise ship. a) Shore Mall b) Voyager Mall c) Ocean One Mall d) Sea Pier Mall 7. Stockton University’s radio station goes by this name. a) WAVE 94.1 b) WLFR 91.7 c) WISP 89.9 d) WXYZ 90.3
Z V H D C H Q A T J B Q O F B T A W K Q A C F H Q Z C A J T S W E D E N J W B E L G I U M D I T O K P N F D S U Q Z R S Y H T E G Y P T E R T W J J A P A N K F Y T O D G E L C M U U B N O R W A Y S J I K W C H N R B B P D Q G E R M A N Y E T W V A D F Y S W I T Z E R L A N D L F W I F Z C A N A D A G J X U K B R A Z I L C P E Y N O H L B Z I H Q I M S E B Q Z E B M E Z X K S P A I N X N L V J R T W U V F X Z H A R G E N T I N A G P W K R A O W W N Q E N G L A N D G U N I T E D S T A T E S T C M A C B Y V Y I Y H L U U G I Q N V K W M X U C I G Y Z S R X S L S D N A N L A L F D H W S O W D M E X I C O Z I F I T X E K B A S J W D S T Z O H L P W E K D N E T H E R L A N D S R I B V G P O R T U G A L T P M D H I S A Z N N X M C U J E K B F R A N C E K C M O R O C C O G X N U M N N F U N A S P H Q M H H T B Z J D M C K B H P Z A H Z W U Q H H K L D L Q C H C I X A U S T R A L I A Y Z S S T J
ARGENTINA FRANCE SPAIN ENGLAND BRAZIL MOROCCO UNITEDSTATES PORTUGAL NETHERLANDS GERMANY SWITZERLAND MEXICO EGYPT SWEDEN JAPAN CANADA AUSTRALIA BELGIUM NORWAY
All Correct - SURELY LOCAL. You’ve got sand in your toes and pines needles by your feet. 6 correct - SOLID LOCAL. You know your way around. 5 correct - SEMI LOCAL. Not born and raised, but not bad. 3 or 4 correct - NEWBIE. Take another exit. You should get around more.
C) Ben Franklin Bridge A) Merv Griffin D) Margate D) 59th Street Pier
5. C) Ocean City 6. C) Ocean One Mall 7. B) WLFR 91.7
Answers to Trivia Puzzle: 90
1. 2. 3. 4.
4. This fishing pier was broken up by several storms over the years and later destroyed by Sandy. Nothing remains today. a) Hunt’s Pier b) Steeplechase Pier c) 14th Street Pier d) 59th Street Pier
1 to 2 correct - SHOOBIE – Welcome to South Jersey. The beach is that way.
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SUDOKU Solution on page 94
THEME: BEVERAGES
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ACROSS 1. Every which way 5. *Whole milk has about 8 grams of this per cup 8. Sound rebound 12. Not yet final, in law 13. Tibetan teacher 14. Twig of willow tree 15. Bad wishes 16. Like certain tradition 17. Separated 18. *Fermented tea 20. Trampled 21. Hermey and Buddy, e.g. 22. Pronoun 23. *Bee's favorite beverage 26. Like blabbermouth 30. Freud's concern 31. Becoming 34. Uncontrolled swerve 35. Type of heron 37. Unidentified John 38. Pocket change 39. Ding follower 40. Kenya's neighbor 42. "Five down" fighter pilot 43. Cuddle, romantically speaking 45. Eras 47. Film director's cry 48. Opinion 50. ____ Bora 52. *Blended fruit beverage 55. *Most-consumed beverage 56. Abbreviation, abbr. 57. Miniature whirlpool 59. The Brady Bunch, e.g. 60. Hanukkah gift 61. Came by horse 62. "For ____ the Bell Tolls" 63. Schiller's famous poem, e.g. 64. One-armed bandit
DOWN 1. "Wheel of Fortune" purchase 2. *Most popular choice for official state beverage 3. Nobel Peace Prize capital 4. It's meant to be 5. Travesty 6. Wet nurses 7. Samoan money 8. *Caffeinated "shot" 9. Bye, in Palermo 10. *Group of bovine milk producers 11. Table scrap 13. Mona Lisa's home 14. Presidential promises, e.g. 19. Detonation 22. *Plant-based "milk" choice 23. Must-haves 24. Encourage (2 words) 25. Cornua, sing. 26. Late country singer-songwriter Campbell 27. Relating to ilium 28. *Popular party beverage 29. Affirmatives 32. Competitive advantage 33. New Zealand's bygone bird 36. *Milk+carbonated water+syrup 38. Head of a body part, anatomically speaking 40. Preceding month 41. Send back to mother country 44. Road-crossing helper 46. Not these or those 48. Implant 49. Like duchess or count 50. Johann Sebastian of music fame 51. Sgt. Snorkel's dog 52. Palm starch 53. Object of worship 54. Starchy tuber 55. "Amazing!" 58. Thus far See Solution on Page 94
July 16, 2026
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Why become a funeral director?
By Andrew Hoffman
Over the years, I've written about many aspects of funeral service, but I haven't addressed the most obvious question: Why would anyone choose to become a funeral director? Everyone has a different story about how they entered the profession, and I'll share mine in a future column. For now, let's begin with what a funeral director does and why the role is so important. A funeral director is a licensed professional who helps families plan, arrange and carry out funeral and memorial services. While many people think of funeral directors as event coordinators, the job extends far beyond logistics. Funeral directors serve as advisers, helping families make important decisions during one of the most difficult times of their lives. They organize every aspect of the service, manage legal requirements and offer guidance, compassion and reassurance throughout the process. In many ways, funeral directors care for both the deceased and the living, ensuring each is treated with dignity and respect. The responsibilities of a funeral
director can be grouped into five primary areas. First, funeral directors help families make informed decisions. They explain burial and cremation options, assist with selecting a casket or urn, and help families choose the type of service that best reflects their loved one's wishes and values. Second, they handle the legal and administrative responsibilities. This includes preparing death certificates, securing permits and coordinating with cemeteries, crematories and other agencies. Managing these details allows families to focus on grieving rather than navigating paperwork and regulations. Third, funeral directors prepare and care for the deceased. Whether through embalming, dressing or cosmetic restoration, they strive to ensure each person is treated with dignity and respect. For many families, viewing their loved one one final time can be an important step in the grieving process. Fourth, funeral directors co-
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ordinate the service itself. They work closely with families to create meaningful ceremonies that reflect personal beliefs, traditions and values. They also oversee scheduling, transportation, clergy, musicians and other details to ensure everything runs smoothly. Finally, funeral directors provide emotional support. They listen, answer questions and guide families through unfamiliar decisions while offering compassion and understanding. Success in this profession is measured not only by organization
but also by the ability to help families feel heard, respected and supported. Compassion is what transforms a funeral service into a meaningful tribute. Funeral service is not for everyone. The profession deals daily with death, grief and loss, making it emotionally demanding. At the same time, it can be one of the most rewarding careers a person can choose. One of the greatest rewards is helping people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Funeral directors ease the burden of planning services, guide families through challenging decisions and help them honor their loved ones with dignity. For many of us, knowing we have made a difference for a family in need provides a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. In my next column, I'll take a closer look at both the rewards and the challenges of working in funeral service. Andrew Hoffman is the funeral director at Jeffries & Keates Funeral Home in Northfield.
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Marcia Kathryn Davis, 75, of Ocean City Marcia Kathryn Davis, 75, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 9th, after battling an illness for a long time. Born in Philadelphia, PA to James and Kathryn McMenamin (Powers), Marcia spent her life radiating vibrant energy, determination, and a wonderful entrepreneurial spirit. She was a proud graduate of Mount St. Joseph’s Academy (The Mount) in Flourtown, PA, Class of 1968. For many years, she successfully operated her own business before serving as the dedicated Condominium Account Underwriting Manager for Heist Insurance Agency in Ocean City, where she expertly oversaw coastal properties and built deep, lasting friendships. To her family, however, her greatest title was always 'Grammy.' For over 40 years, she loved nothing more than hosting warm gatherings for her children and grandchildren, filling her home with laughter, love, and a steady, comforting heartbeat. She is survived by her loving children: Shannon O’Brien and her husband James; Christian Davis and his wife Katie and Erin Ludy and her husband Jason. She also leaves behind ten beloved grandchildren who will forever carry her vibrant memory forward - Nathan, Kyle, Samantha, Emily, Abby, Hannah, Tyler, Savannah, Andrew and Allison. Honoring her personal wishes, memorial celebrations will be held privately. For details regarding services and arrangements, please contact the family directly. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Marcia’s name to the American Cancer Society or the Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center to support vital research and patient care. As we mark what would have been her 76th birthday on July 25th, we invite you to honor Marcia by living with the same strength and care for others that she modeled for us every single day.
Marian Talese It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Marian Talese on July 7. Ocean City has lost one of those rare people whose quiet generosity and unwavering love for the community made our island a brighter place. Marian was a gifted artist, a passionate preservationist, and someone who believed deeply in the history, beauty, and friendships that define Ocean City. Friends of OCNJ History & Culture came to know Marian shortly after the community preservation group was formed. As a member of the Ocean City Historic Preservation Commission, she reached out with a simple question: “How can I help?” Those were not just words—they were her way of life. She shared stories, photographs, historical insights, and encouragement whenever we needed them. In 2026, she graciously allowed us to feature her artwork in support of our organization in our annual calendar; another example of her generosity and commitment to preserving Ocean City’s heritage. Perhaps what was most remarkable about Marian was her outlook on life. Even in her final days, she never wanted the conversation to be about herself. Instead, she talked about Ocean City—its history, its future, and what could be done to make it an even better place. That optimism, grace, and selflessness inspired everyone fortunate enough to know her. Marian’s legacy will live on in the art she created, the history she helped preserve, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, her many friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed, but she will not be forgotten. Friends of OCNJ History & Culture
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One-room schoolhouse served early EHT students
By Lynn Wood
L
ong before modern school buildings and school buses, children in Bargaintown received their education in a small one-room schoolhouse along Patcong Creek. The modest structure, measuring just 18 by 16 feet, stood on what is now Mill Road and served students in all eight grade levels under the instruction of a single teacher. Inside, students sat shoulder to shoulder on wooden benches and completed their lessons
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on handheld slate boards using chalk. During the winter months, the school relied on a potbellied stove in the center of the room for heat. Older boys were responsible for keeping the fire burning throughout the day, ensuring the classroom
remained warm during the coldest weather. The school reflected the simplicity of rural life in the 19th century. Drinking water came from a hand-operated pump, while outdoor privies served as the school's restrooms. Although the schoolhouse no longer exists, its history remains an important part of Egg Harbor Township's past. The site where it once stood is now the entrance to Lakeside Condominiums. Patcong Creek, which once flowed beside the school, was later diverted during construction of the Garden State Parkway. Information is from Journey Through Time in Egg Harbor Township, N.J., by June Sheridan and Lynn Wood.
Solutions to page 91 puzzles. Check yourself!
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July 16, 2026
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Margate $725,000
Life at 9600 Atlantic—one of 9600 Atlantic Condominiums’s most sought-after oceanfront addresses, often referred to as the crown jewel of the Jersey Shore. This beautifully updated offering the perfect blend of modern design, coastal luxury, and effortless beach living. 2 Bedroom 2 bath
Lisa Alper Russo $609-289-2384
Why do you love real estate? I have worked many jobs that require 60+ hours a week. It is pleasurable to spend my time where it is actually needed.
3023 Ivins Ave
What's your favorite part of the job? I get to treat real estate as my own business. If I do not produce, I do not make money. If i need a break, I can take one. I can balance my mental health with my financial goals while still giving my clients the attention they deserve.
Egg Harbor Township $620,000
Classic all-brick ranch set on nearly 5 private acres offers a rare combination of 2,400 sq ft of true single-story living, oversized rooms, timeless design, and exceptional privacy just minutes from everyday conveniences. 3 bedroom 2.5 bath
Art Barrera 609-287-0923
207 E Plaza Place $469,000
Stunning custom home just steps from Lakes Bay, offering breathtaking panoramic water views and a prime Egg Harbor Township location with easy access to Atlantic City, beaches, boardwalk, schools, shopping, and dining. 3 bedroom 2 bath
Art Barrera 609-287-0923
What's one thing clients should know about you? I am not a salesmen, I am just a guy helping good people find their future homes. What's your favorite place in South Jersey? Nothing beats a good visit to the beach at sunset to clear the soul.
301 S Franklin Blvd
Connect with Matt 609-442-4957 mattboydrealestate@gmail.com
Pleasantville $409,900
Excellent owner-occupant opportunity with built-in income potential! Don’t miss this unique chance to own a spacious duplex while enjoying the feel and functionality of a single-family home. 5 bedroom 2 bath
Art Barrera 609-287-0923
25 Bucknell Road Somers Point $425,000
Charming updated ranch in a quiet neighborhood featuring modern finishes, a bright kitchen, spacious living areas, and French doors to a step-down den. A large Florida room adds versatile living space, while updated baths, comfortable bedrooms, and a newly resided exterior complete the package. 3 bedroom 2 bath
Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384
550 Central Ave #M12 Linwood $295,000
Discover the perfect opportunity in The Village at Linwood, where privacy, tranquility, and potential come together. Featuring a spacious open layout with cathedral ceilings and flexible living space, this residence is ready to be transformed into your own custom retreat. 3 Bedroom 2 Bath
Talia Priessman 609-517-8183
609 -204 -2287
Somers Point $370,000
Welcome to your perfect summer escape at Harbor Cove in Somers Point, a charming marina-front community along Bay Avenue where coastal living meets everyday convenience. Perched on the top level of a three-story building, this one-bedroom residence offers privacy, peaceful surroundings, and beautiful morning sunlight throughout. 1 Bedroom 1 bath
Lisa Alper Russo 609-289-2384
107 E Woodland Ave
1532 Hamilton Ave Hamilton Twp $230,000
Beautifully maintained end-unit townhome in Mays Landing Village has been thoughtfully refreshed with brand-new interior paint and updated lighting, creating a bright, modern feel from the moment you step inside. 2 Bedroom 1 Bath
Debra Glenn 609-287-7648
Marlene Barrera
Nicholas P. Brennan
609-287-4032
609-204-2287
Sales Associate
Broker Associate
310 Harbor Cove #3310
Absecon $212,900
Enjoy easy living in Woodland Village, a sought-after 55+ community offering a beautifully updated corner condo with luxury finishes throughout. Relax on your private deck with pergola and take advantage of the community pool, clubhouse, and convenient location near shopping, dining, beaches, and Atlantic City. 1 Bedroom 1 Bath
Alex Terranova 973-615-5061
Sales Associate
Michael Cifelli
Sales Associate
609- 432-6399
Joe LaMania
Thomas Venafro Jr.
702-410-4173
609-204-8257
Sales Associate
Sales Associate
Camille Decaro
Sales Associate
609-626-4581
Nikki Fox
Sales Associate
609 -204 -2287
Sharon Eilenberg
Admin Assistant
Greg Neder
Sales Associate
609-805-3465
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