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SHORE LOCAL | Oceancity | July 31, 2025

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July 31, 2025

3


BUY & SELL CARDS

The best things in life are free

Letter from the editor

A

s a child, summer meant catching fireflies at dusk, collecting seashells along the shore and riding bikes until the streetlights came on. It was the simple pleasures that made those days unforgettable — moments that didn’t cost a thing but left lasting memories. Decades later, that still holds true. My favorite summer activities are early morning walks on the beach, tending the flower garden and paddleboarding or boating on the bay. These quiet, peaceful experiences bring me the most joy — and none of them come with a price tag. It took me years to truly appreciate it, but it’s clear now: the best things in life really are free. Like many of us, I spent a lot of time chasing the tangible — a bigger house, a newer car, the latest gadgets or designer labels. But those things never brought lasting happiness. There was always something more to want, another

milestone to chase. Eventually, I realized that pursuit is endless — and often empty. What I value most today are the experiences that foster connection — to nature, to loved ones, and to myself. Choosing gratitude over comparison, and wonder over worry, has opened the door to contentment. And for me, that’s a far more peaceful and fulfilling mindset. This summer, I hope you’ll find joy

in the little things — a cool breeze off the ocean, a good book in the shade, a heartfelt conversation, the beauty of a sunset. These are the memories that linger. These are the moments that truly matter. Wishing you sunshine, serenity and the simple joys of summer.

Peace & Love, Cindy

Issue 346

Established 2016

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SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

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July 31, 2025


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The ocean’s warm - the complete opposite of last summer By Meteorologist Joe Martucci

D

espite some stormy and cool weekends this summer, there’s one thing we can say about the Jersey Shore right now: “Come on in; the water’s warm!” The ocean water has been above average for most of the summer so far. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 75-degree water temperatures were recorded off the Steel Pier in Atlantic City on July 5, 6, 8, 12-17, and 23-28. In other words, over half of the July days, the ocean water temperature was warm. That’s more like South Carolina than South Jersey. It’s the complete opposite of last summer. June and July had zero days with a water temperature above 75

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degrees. In fact, 11 July days were in the very chilly 50s, and 55 degrees was the 8 a.m. water temperature on July 18, 2024. Getting in the ocean was tough. To explain why summer 2025 has been an absolute warm ocean lover’s delight, I’ll use another mantra: “Life’s at ease with an ocean breeze.” Wind direction determines ocean water temperature Ranking behind the strength of the warming sun and the currents, the direction of the wind plays the biggest role in water temperatures in New Jersey. In fact, it’s the main player for the day-to-day, or hour-tohour variations. Cooler ocean waters are caused by upwelling. Upwelling describes what happens when the typically warmer sea surface water moves away from the coast and out to sea. Colder water from the sea floor then rises to the top along the shoreline. This is a critical part of our marine ecosystem. That cold water is nutrient-rich and keeps our living ocean alive. Upwelling is caused by Ekman

Spiraling, according to the American Meteorological Society’s glossary. I’ll save the meteorology for you, but for the Jersey Shore, and the Northern Hemisphere, upwelling occurs any time the coastline is to the left of the direction of the wind. In our case it means a wind from the southwest or south. The Jersey Shore is to the left of the air current. That causes Ekman Spiraling, which pushes that warm water away. On the other hand, warmer water gets pushed onshore with onshore winds. A wind from the southeast, east or even northeast will blow warmer-than-usual water in from the Gulf Stream our way. From the time climatological summer began on June 1, to July 28, winds were out of the favorable southeast, east and northeast direction 30% of the time at Atlantic City International Airport in Egg Harbor Township, according to the Iowa Environmental Mesonet. Yes, the airport is inland, but the largescale wind measurement known as synoptic wind direction, is usually the same between the airport and the coast itself. During summer of 2024, winds blew from the southeast, east to northeast just 12% of the time. During the summer of 2025, it has been above the long-term average of roughly 20%. Go up the coast and you have had the same results only more often. Readings at Monmouth County Executive Airport in Wall show wind direction out of the southeast, east or northeast a whopping 55% of the time through July 28, according to the Mesonet. Last summer it was about 30%. Eighty-degree ocean water is possible come August Offshore winds should continue to be a focal point of the August fore-

cast, and with the climatological peak of our ocean waters coming at the end of the month, a few 80-degree ocean water temperatures are very possible. While I’m not as keen on it as I was in our Halfway Through Summer Outlook column a few weeks ago, there is still a better-than-50% chance that the wind direction comes from the southeast, east or northeast more than average during August. We average at least one day with a water temperature at or above 80 degrees at the Atlantic City station in August. So, hitting 80 is not unusual. However, given the constant 70s we’ve had up and down the coast so far, more onshore winds would likely give us at least a few days in the tropical 80s. Shore summer weekend weather report card update The report card’s been holding its own over the month of July. However, summer 2025 will need to study hard, put in the work and give us beautiful, dry weekends for August in order to keep this summer out of last place. I graded the July 25-27 weekend a ‘B.’ That brings the grade point average since Memorial Day Weekend to a 2.7 – right around a B-minus. In the eight summers that I’ve graded the weekend weather, the lowest final grade point average was a 3.0 back in 2021. Climatologically, our weather becomes less rainy in mid-August. So, there’s still time to earn a few ‘A’ grades and dig out of last place. Joe Martucci, a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist and Digital Meteorologist, is the President and Director of Meteorology for Cup A Joe Weather and Drone. You can connect with him at cupajoe.live.

July 31, 2025


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Hard rockers perform show at Charlie's Bar for charity

By Holly Fertsch

O

n Sunday night, July 27, Ben Burnley of Breaking Benjamin and Lacey Sturm of Flyleaf performed an acoustic set at Charlie’s

Bar in Somers Point. Admission was $20 at the door and all proceeds benefited FACES 4 Autism, a local nonprofit that provides support for people with autism and their families. Those who kept a pulse on what was playing on rock radio throughout the 2000s, those band names are likely familiar. After rising to fame in the early 2000s, the rock bands often toured together, drawing huge crowds to their concerts. So, why play at a local bar, now that their gig days are done? Well, Ben Burnley is a local. In fact,

Jim and Jeff Thomas, owners of Charlie's, with Ben Burnley, Josh and Lacey Sturm, and 'Cheech' following their unplugged set on Sunday, July 27, 2025.

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as he told the crowd on Sunday, he goes to Charlie’s all the time. Burnley was born in Atlantic City and was raised in Ocean City. He moved to Pennsylvania as a teenager, where he founded the band Breaking Benjamin in 1999. In 2013, he moved back to the island and is a resident today. Jimmy and Jeff Thomas, owners of Charlie’s, explained that they had been asking Burnley to play a show at the bar after noticing his frequent visits. Burnley replied that he would need to find someone to perform an acoustic set with him. This year, Burnley and Lacey Sturm teamed up for an eight-date “unplugged” tour across the United States. Josh Sturm, Lacey’s husband and guitarist for her solo career, accompanied them with acoustic guitar during their sets. On July 17, Burnley and Sturm played at Borgata as part of that tour. Now that he had been doing an acoustic tour with the Sturms, Burnley felt the timing was right for a performance at Charlie’s. So, he contacted the bar’s owners to work out the details of doing a set for charity. The Thomases suggested raising funds for FACES 4 Autism because they had done fundraisers earlier in the summer for other local nonprofits that serve people with autism and wanted to spread the love equally. The plan was then set in motion. On Sunday, July 27, Charlie’s was packed to the brim with hardcore Breaking Benjamin and Flyleaf fans, along with some of Burnley’s local friends. One fan explained that they had been waiting in the bar for over three hours, determined to make it into the limited-capacity show. Another fan showed off his Breaking Benjamin CD. The restaurant was buzzing with anticipation.

Charlie’s converted a dining area into a performing space and had the musicians enter through the kitchen. When they came out, the crowd roared. Mere inches separated the audience from Lacey and Burnley. As Josh picked up an acoustic guitar, Burnley introduced his son, who took the stage with them. Burnley’s son is also named Ben, but goes by “Cheech.” He had his own mic and sang alongside his father and Lacey. The crowd loved the father-son performance and would go on to chant Cheech’s name at several points in the show. Cheech was an instant hero to the crowd when he declared the band would play “three more songs” shortly after Burnley announced they would play one more.

Frontman Ben Burnley at Charlie's. At the tail-end of the set, Burnley’s mother came out as well and performed a cover of “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac with Lacey. The setlist was similar to what they had performed on their recent tour in much bigger venues. They alternated Breaking Benjamin songs with Flyleaf songs, before performing cover songs toward the end.

July 31, 2025


Burnley said he requested the specific Flyleaf songs in the set, mostly from the band's debut self-titled album. He commented that the ballad “So I Thought” was a song he wished he had written himself. Lacey explained that a member of Flyleaf had met Breaking Benjamin at a festival and gave Burnley a CD of their songs before that debut album had been released. Burnley was impressed by it, and the vocalists have been friends ever since. Rock ballads like “So I Thought” and “All Around Me,” the latter being their most commercially successful hit, constitute part of Flyleaf’s sound, which transferred over well into the acoustic setlist. Flyleaf’s genre rides the line between grunge and alternative metal, though casual listeners may not know of the band’s heavier tracks. For many Gen Z listeners, Lacey Sturm was the first female vocalist they ever heard perform screams and harsh vocals. Speaking of which, Lacey did not disappoint in that area. The Flyleaf song “Sorrow” ends with Lacey screaming, “Joy will come.” Despite the acoustic accompaniment, Lacey performed the song as written, harsh vocals and all. The crowd adored the hints of metal in the otherwise mellow set. Burnley commented that she had been throwing in screams

all tour, making him question whether he should scream as well on his Breaking Benjamin songs in the acoustic set. Like Flyleaf, Breaking Benjamin is often categorized as hard rock, alternative metal and post-grunge. The band’s single “Diary of Jane” earned them wide recognition in 2006. In 2009, their hit single “I Will Not Bow” was well known to hard rock listeners at the time. Breaking Benjamin is also known for “Dear Agony,” a particularly vulnerable rock ballad; In 2020, the band rereleased the song as an acoustic duet with Lacey Sturm. This collaboration sparked their recent “unplugged” tour. So, of course, that song was performed as a duet at Charlie’s, while the audience sang along. It cannot be stressed enough how impressive the show was, considering how impromptu it was put together. The musicians didn't have their crew with them and had set up the instruments themselves. At the beginning of the set, Burnley gave a disclaimer, “We don’t have any in-ear monitors, so no judgment. Sing along if you know it. Drown us out, please… We were in Columbus, Ohio, last night, and we just got in this morning. So, extra no judgment, OK?” Yet, the vocals were spectacular.

Ben Burnley of Breaking Benjamin, along with his son and guest vocalist Lacey Sturm, performed an unplugged set with Josh Sturm on guitar. Josh did a great job accompanying them on guitar, even playing the bass parts with his thumb to create a fuller sound. The audience also kept their promise to sing along. From belting out “Diary of Jane” at the top of their lungs to singing along to a cover of “Iris” by The Goo Goo Dolls, nearly drowning out the performers. The fans’ energy was contagious. The concert at Charlie’s was magical, even more so because it was for charity. FACES 4 Autism was one of this area’s first nonprofits to provide resources and events for local families impacted by autism.

Courtney Corson commented how surreal it was for her two worlds to collide; She grew up attending FACES events as a sibling to someone with autism and credited Breaking Benjamin’s music for getting her through middle school. If you see Burnley around town, maybe don’t start cheering and screaming when he’s just picking up wings from Charlie’s. However, this is a great reminder of the hidden talents in our community. Who knows? The person sitting next to you at your local bar might be a rockstar without you even realizing it. Photos by Steffen Klenk

July 31, 2025

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National Night Out Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025

Absecon

▶6 - 9 p.m.

Pitney Park East, Pitney Rd. & Crestview Ave. Join the members of the Absecon Police Department for free food and fun. Local vendors and community organizations will be in attendance, along with demonstrations from the Atlantic County Regional SWAT Team, Absecon Fire Department and a helicopter flyover. Atlantic City

▶5 – 8 p.m.

Pete Pallitto Field, 3301 Fairmount Ave. Join the Atlantic City Police Department and City of Atlantic City for a fun-filled event, with appearances by the ACPD SWAT, AC Fire Department, ACPO, AC Police Foundation and Atlantic County Toys for Kids, along with other organizations. There will be raffles for bicycles and helmets, a K9 demonstration, music by DJ K-AVE and free hamburgers and hot dogs. All kids must be accompanied by an adult. Brigantine

▶6 – 9 p.m.

26th Street Ball Field

Join members of the Brigantine Police Department for a fun night out, with local vendors, food, games, an outdoor movie and SWAT demonstrations. Egg Harbor Township

Department, announces the return of National Night Out. The community is invited to this free, family-friendly community event. There will be a variety of activities for the kids, including inflatables, face painting, characters, a dunk tank and DJ. There will be demos from Emergency Services, including a touch-a-truck. Plus, meet with local businesses and community organizations. Pleasantville

▶5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Veterans Memorial Park, 2153 Ocean Heights Ave. Join the Egg Harbor Township Police Department for an evening of giveaways and games, free activities, displays and demos. Local groups, organizations, and businesses will be in attendance, along with plenty of food trucks, children’s activities, music, K9 demos and helicopters. Plus, enjoy a dazzling firework display at dusk. Galloway

▶5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Galloway Municipal Complex, 300 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd. Join the Galloway Township Police Department for an evening of police and community partnerships. There will be games, food and fun, along with a 50/50 drawing and entertainment. Plus, K-9, S.W.A.T. and Fire demonstrations, and helicopters. Hamilton Township

▶6 – 9 p.m.

Lake Lenape East, 753 Park Rd. Join the Township of Hamilton Police Department for an evening of food trucks, face painting, bounce houses, live music and giveaways, along with a dazzling firework display at dusk. This year’s event will be held at Lake Lenape East. Linwood

▶5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Memorial Field, Wabash Ave. Save the Date and join Linwood Police Department for an evening in the community with activities for the kids, demonstrations, local businesses and community organizations. Northfield

▶Thursday, Aug. 7, 6 – 8 p.m.

Birch Grove Park Join the City of Northfield Police Department and the community in a fun-filled family evening. There will be plenty of activities for the kids, food, entertainment and community resources. Ocean City

▶5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Carey Stadium, 500 Boardwalk The City of Ocean City, in coordination with the Ocean City Police

▶5 – 8 p.m.

Tilton Rd. & Langston Ave. Join the City of Pleasantville for their annual community event, with free food, a live DJ, games, face painting, food trucks, free ice cream, and more. Plus, meet K9 Titus and check out the community resource vendors in attendance. Somers Point

▶5 – 8 p.m.

Kennedy Park The Somers Point Police Department will host a free community policing event. Head to JFK Park for an evening of live music, food trucks, local vendors, face painting, cornhole and bounce houses. Ventnor

▶5 – 8 p.m.

Ski Beach, Dorset & Burk Aves. Enjoy a fun night out with the community and meet members of the Police, Fire, OEM, and Beach Patrol. There will be plenty of activities for all to enjoy, including food trucks, DJ, face painting, crafters, interactive children’s games, inflatables and public safety vehicle displays. All events are scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 5, except where noted.

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Heritage Park Bring your chairs or blankets and enjoy classic rock and country by the Motts Creek Pickers. The music begins at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be available for purchase.a Brigantine Summer Concert Series

▶Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

This week, John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band return to the beach. The multi-platinum original “Eddie & The Cruisers” Soundtrack Artists will have concert-goers dancing in the sand. Visit www.concertsonthebeachinsomerspoint.com for the full summer lineup. Longport Concert Series

▶Tuesday, Aug. 5, 6:30 p.m.

Brigantine Community Center 265 42nd St. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the sounds of TK and the Howlers. In the event of rain, all concerts will be held the following Thursday. For more information, call the recreation office at 609-264-7350. EHT Rhythm in the Park

Borough Hall Gazebo 2305 Atlantic Ave. This Tuesday, the Longport Public Library will host a special concert, featuring the local sounds of Pan Gravy. In case of rain, the concert will be held indoors. Registration is encouraged by calling 609-487-7403. Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk

Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheater in Tony Canale Park Bring your blankets and chairs and join EHT Parks & Recreation for outdoor concerts at Tony Canale Park, featuring Poor Mouth Henry. Visit www.ehtrec. com or www.facebook.com/EHTRecreation in the event of inclement weather. Jazz on the Beach

Kennedy Plaza 2300 Boardwalk, Atlantic City This Wednesday, Aug. 6, Galactic returns to the stage at Kennedy Plaza, joined by the Ocean Avenue Stompers. For more information, visit tonymart. com. Ventnor City Summer Beach Jam

▶Fridays, 7 – 9 p.m.

▶Thursdays, 7 – 10 p.m.

Kennedy Plaza 2300 Boardwalk, Atlantic City Join the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation for their free concert series every Thursday. On July 31, enjoy the sounds of Vijay Iyer Trio & Adam O’Farrill, with local jazz by Soundever. In the event of rain, the show will be moved to the Celebrity Theater at Claridge Hotel, 4th floor. Visit www. chickenbonebeach.org for updates. Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point

▶Fridays, 7 p.m.

William Morrow Beach 800 Bay Ave.

▶Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

▶Saturdays, 6:30 p.m.

Newport Avenue Beach Get your fins ready and join the Summer Beach Jam in a tribute to Jimmy Buffett with Parrot Beach. The music begins at 6:30 p.m. Food and crafters will be ready to serve you at 5:30 p.m. Ventnor City Sunset at Ski Beach

▶Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Dorset & Burk Ave. The Ski Beach concert continues this week with the Sensational Soul Cruisers, playing the best in Motown, soul, and R&B. The music begins at 6:30 p.m. Food and crafters will be ready to serve you at 5:30 p.m.

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July 31, 2025


Brigantine Farmers Market

Farmers Markets

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

▶Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Brigantine Community School parking lot Sheridan Blvd. The Brigantine Farmers Market will be open to customers on Saturdays, rain or shine, through Sept. 6. For more information, visit www. facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket. C.R.O.P.S. Farmers Market

319 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd. Galloway Shop local and support dozens of local vendors selling fresh produce, fantastic food, locally-sourced products, and crafts. Open Sundays through Sept. 28. Somers Point Farmers Market

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

▶Fridays, 4 – 6 p.m.

Fisherman’s Park Community Garden Massachusetts & Drexel Ave. Atlantic City Purchase local fruits, vegetables, and herbs, enjoy nature’s beauty, and share gardening knowledge with C.R.O.P.S. Open Fridays through Sept. 19. EHT Community Farmers Market

▶Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Atlantic County Library 1 Swift Dr. Just Organics Marketplace and Honeytree Health host a Community Farmers Market on Sundays, featuring a variety of local pesticide-free farmers, food vendors, artists, crafters, music, and fun activities. Support family farmers. Markets open Sundays through Aug. 24. For more information, visit thehoneytree.net or e-mail wellness@thehoneytree.net.

Risley Square Farmers Market

Locally grown produce at C.R.O.P.S. market. Photo by Christina Martin Galloway Green Market

▶Thursdays, 4 – 7 p.m.

Historic Smithville Village Greene 615 E. Moss Mill Rd. Go Green Galloway hosts their weekly Green Market, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Markets open Thursdays through Sept. 4. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates. Margate Community Farmers Market

▶Thursdays, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Steve and Cookies Parking Lot

9700 Amherst Ave. The Margate Farmers Market is preparing to open for the 2025 season. Markets will be open Thursdays through Aug. 28. For more information, visit margatehasmore.com. 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. Wednesdays through Sept. 3. For more information, call 1-800-BEACHNJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.

Somers Mansion 1000 Shore Rd. The Somers Point Farmers Market is open for the 2025 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. 6. For more information, go to visitsomerspoint.com. Ventnor City Farmers Market

▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Newport & Atlantic Ave. Entering its 9th season, the Ventnor City Farmers Market is one of the most delightful places to shop on Fridays. 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. Open Fridays through Aug. 29. Visit vcfm.org for more.

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13


Multi-day Events

Events and Happenings

Art of Surfing

▶Thursday, July 31-Saturday, Aug. 2

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Mark your calendars for the return of the annual Art of Surfing Festival. This free family event brings all the good vibes to the Music Pier for three days of surf art, live music and a chance to meet artists from across the country. The festivities will take place on Thursday, July 31 from 5 to 10 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 1 and Saturday, Aug. 2 from 12 to 10 p.m. Visit their Instagram @artofsurfingocnj for more information. Ocean City Boardwalk Art Show

▶Friday, Aug. 1-Sunday, Aug. 3

Ocean City Boardwalk, Seventh to 10th streets Explore the magnificent display of artwork by talented artists from throughout the East Coast as they exhibit and sell their work. From incredible pieces in oils, acrylics, watercolor, photography and mixed media, this show is the perfect opportunity to enhance your collection. The show will run Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. OCTC Presents ‘Footloose’ with

the OC Pops

▶Aug. 5, 6, 8, 12, 13, and 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 7 and 14 at 2 p.m. Hughes Performing Arts Center, Sixth St. and Atlantic avenues The iconic movie meets Broadway. “Footloose” celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people while guiding them with a warm heart and open mind. Audiences will be dancing and tapping their toes to the rockin’ rhythm of its Oscar- and Tony-nominated Top 40 score, accompanied with dynamic new songs. Tickets are available online at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com.

Thursday, July 31

Thrilling Thursdays in Margate

▶7 p.m.

Huntington Ave. and the Beach, Margate Grab your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy a free movie on the beach. The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. with pre-movie activities on terrapins by Scott’s Dock, food from Jace’s Pizza, followed by a screening of the film “Despicable Me 4.” Visit www.margatehasmore.com for the complete Thrilling Thursdays schedule.

Friday, August 1

Beach Exercise: Low Impact

▶8-9 a.m.

Sixth 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. Margate Memorial Lifeguard Races

▶6:30 p.m.

Decatur Ave. Beach, Margate The Margate Memorials are a favorite among lifeguards, locals and athletes of all ages. Beach patrols from Brigantine to Cape May will compete in a series of races, including the 1-mile doubles row, half-mile swim and 1,000-foot singles row. See

www.margatehasmore.com for more information.

Saturday, August 2 Brigantine Triathlon

▶8 a.m.

26th Street Recreational Complex Several hundred athletes will participate in the event, which kicks off with a quarter-mile swim in the bay, beginning at the 26th St. City Dock. The race follows with a scenic 11-mile bike ride around the island, and a short 4-mile run. An awards ceremony follows the race. Proceeds benefit local community organizations. Learn more at https://runsignup.com/btri. Zoo to You: Cape May County Zoo Visits Ventnor Library

▶11 a.m.

6500 Ventnor Ave., Ventnor Open to all. Learn appreciation for our natural world through this handson, interactive program, along with special animal visitors and interactions. EHC Volunteer Fire Department Spaghetti Dinner

▶4-7 p.m.

Egg Harbor City Fire Department, 225 W. White Horse Pike

↘Continued on 16

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July 31, 2025


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TAKE $1 OFF ADMISSION OR RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR GIFT SHOP PURCHASE *Coupon must be surrendered at the time of purchase and may not be combined with any other offer. No cash value. Discount is limited to four (4) admission tickets. Gift Shop discount excludes the purchase of selected jewelry as well as Steven Winkelstein (a.k.a. “The Winkle”) and Aunt Evelyn books. Coupon expires December 31, 2025. Valid in-store only. Coupon Code: SL The Save Lucy Committee, Inc. received an operating support grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.


↘Continued from 14 Support our local firefighters and enjoy a spectacular spaghetti dinner this Saturday. Adults are $15, children $8. Eat in or take out.

Sunday, August 3

The Great Race on the Mighty Mullica

▶11:30 a.m.

Sweetwater Marina & Riverdeck, 2870 Seventh Ave., Sweetwater Sweetwater Yacht Club invites the public and spectators to their upcoming cardboard boat competition this Sunday. The race will consist of multiple categories, with individuals and family participation. Prizes will be awarded. For additional information, visit www.sweetwateryachtclub.com. Opera by the Sea

▶4 p.m.

Community Presbyterian Church, 1501 W. Brigantine Ave., Brigantine Join Opera by the Sea for their performance of Donizetti’s “L'elisir d’amore,” fully staged in costume. Tickets are $30 per person. For more information, call 215-224-0257 or search for Amici Opera Company on Facebook. Ocean City Pops Presents: Hollywood Blockbusters

▶7:30 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

It’s movie night in Ocean City. Come hear the Pops at its best as Maestro Vince Lee takes you on a grand tour of the biggest hits from the Silver Screen. Featured movie composers include Elmer Bernstein, Alan Silvestri, Lalo Schifrin, Hans Zimmer and many more. Tickets can be purchased at the Music Pier Box Office or online at www.oceancityvacation.com.

Monday, August 4 Beach Exercise: Yoga

▶8-9 a.m.

Sixth 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. JFS House Tour

▶11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

The 36th Annual House Tour will provide guests with the rare opportunity to view several luxurious Downbeach homes, featuring state-of-the-art kitchens, custom woodworking, unique décor and lighting and beautiful landscaping. All attendees will enjoy a complimentary lunch. Tickets are available for purchase at www.jfsatlantic.org/ house-tour.

Trust the local experts

FULL SERVICE SHOP

Art of Surfing will take place from Thursday, July 31 to Saturday, Aug. 2 at the Ocean City Music Pier. Photo by Steffen Klenk EHT Monday Morning Madness

Family Night in Ocean City

Robert J. Lincoln Amphitheatre at Tony Canale Park Join EHT Recreation for free, family-friendly shows every Monday morning. This week, enjoy an amazing performance by the Curriers Bubble Show. Weather permitting, some shows may be moved indoors. Visit www.ehtrec.com for additional information. Sand Art in the Park

Ocean City Boardwalk from Sixth14th St. Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, including jugglers, music, characters and more on the Boardwalk. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com. An Evening with Steve & Steve

▶11 a.m.

▶12-2 p.m.

Estell Manor Park, 109 Route 50 S. Come celebrate sand art under the yellow pavilion in Estell Manor Park this Monday. All materials are supplied and free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the event of rain, this activity will be held in the Nature Center. Registration is required by visiting www.atlanticcountynj.gov. Scroll to the Government Information tab and click on County Calendar. Monday Music Under the Tent

▶6 p.m.

Margate Public Library, 8100 Atlantic Ave., Margate Paula Johns and the Dave Hartl Quartet present a tribute to the music of Burt Bacharach and his Greatest Muse, Miss Dionne Warwick. All performances will be held under the tent at the corner of Atlantic and Huntington Ave. Seating is limited.

▶7-9 p.m.

▶7:30 p.m.

Dominic A. Potena Performing Arts Center, 7998 Monmouth Ave., Margate Singer-songwriters Steve Messinger and Steve Bernstein bring their eclectic and harmonization set to the stage in Margate. Fans will enjoy a harmonizing set of music spanning the ’60s and beyond, with proceeds from the concert benefiting Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Learn more at www.concerts4research.com.

Tuesday, August 5 Beach Walks in Ocean City

▶9 a.m.

59th St. and Central Ave. Grab your flip flops or beach shoes and enjoy a leisurely walk on the beach. The walks will start at the entrance to Corson’s Inlet State Park. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.

↘Continued on 18

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↘Continued from 16 Thoughts from the Bookshelf

▶3 p.m.

Margate Library, 8100 Ventnor Ave. Join JFS Village for their monthly book club gathering. This month, the group will discuss the novel, “The Librarian of Burned Books” by Brianna Labuskes. This captivating story focuses on the intertwined fates of three women who believe in the power of books to triumph over the darkest moments. RSVP by July 31 by emailing tserota@jfsatlantic.org or call 609-287-8872. Mummers Nights

▶7-9 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk The Mummers will strut the Boardwalk twice a week, starting at Sixth and 14th streets. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com. Senior Dance Society

▶7:30-10 p.m.

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

Wednesday, August 6

Twins Contest in Ocean City

▶8-9 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk This fun contest awards prizes for those who look the most and least alike. Open to all ages. Registration is free and opens at 5:30 p.m. The contest begins at 6 p.m. in front of the Music Pier. Somers Point Pinochle Club

Beach Exercise: Pilates

Sixth 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: Prince and Princess Party

▶10:30 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk Use your creativity to design your own Prince or Princess crown with Miss Ocean City, Junior Miss Ocean City and Little Miss Ocean City. The contest is free. Participants must be present at the Music Pier at 10:30 a.m. to participate. Lunch Around Town with JFS Village

▶12-1:30 p.m.

La Cucine Restaurant, 1205 Tilton Road, Northfield JFS Village invites you to enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends while supporting a local restaurant. This month, the group will dine at La Cucina. Come prepared for good food and conversation. Order off the menu and pay individually. RSVP by Aug. 1 by emailing tserota@jfsatlantic.org or call 609-287-8872.

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▶6 p.m.

▶6-8:30 p.m.

Somers Point Senior Center, 22 N. Ambler Road The Pinochle Club gathers every Wednesday night throughout the year to play. All are welcome to join. Family Night in Ocean City

▶7-9 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk from Sixth14th St. Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, including jugglers, music, characters and more on the Boardwalk. For more information, visit www. oceancityvacation.com.

Thursday, August 7 Market Days

▶10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Downtown Asbury Avenue Ocean City Enjoy a variety of free entertainment while strolling Asbury Avenue between Sixth and 11th streets. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com. Mummers Nights

▶7-9 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk The Mummers will strut the Boardwalk twice a week, from Sixth to 14th streets. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com. Bus Trips

▶Phillies vs. Orioles in South Philadelphia Wednesday, Aug. 6

Hosted by Waldo Bus Tours. Catch the Phillies as they take on the Orioles. Game time is 12:35 p.m. Cost is $100 per person. Includes 300 level tickets, bus ride to the game and $12 voucher good for anything in the stadium. Driver gratuity and assorted beverages for the ride are included. For more information, call 609-703-5418 or email jwaltersjr@ comcast.net.

Health and Wellness Monday Meditation and Stretching

▶Mondays, 11:30 a.m.

Mental Health Association in Atlantic County, 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway The Atlantic County Wellness Center provides a weekly 15–20-minute meditation, follow-up discussion and light stretch on Mondays. For more information, call 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org. Depression and Anxiety Group

▶Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Atlantic Community Wellness Center, 1125 Atlantic Ave., Suite 617, Atlantic City This weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness and recovery. 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, Aug. 6, 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.

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July 31, 2025


gain the support of peers who understand their experiences and gain insight into others’ challenges and successes. Visit www. namiacm.org or call 609-741-5125 for more information. MHA Atlantic Family Meetings

▶ Thursday, Aug. 14, 10 a.m.

These virtual support groups and educational programs are for individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/ or substance use disorders. Meetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday and 7 p.m. every third Wednesday. Contact Gail Christian at 609The Great Race on the Mighty Mullica is Sunday, Aug. 3. 652-3800, ext. 0301 Photo credit: Sweetwater Marina and Riverdeck Facebook or gchristian@mhanj. NAMI Family Support org to receive a meeting link. and Connection Meeting

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19


Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation rallies the community to Surf for a Cause

By Julia Train

I

tion hosts multiple fundraisers throughout the year. Jon Baker, president of the foundation, first got involved after attending the second Surf for a Cause contest. A local artist and longtime fan of Randazzo, he donated a painting for a raffle and was later invited to join the board. The 24th annual Surf for a Cause is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 6, the Saturday after Labor Day, and 300 people are expected to take part in the competition. The surf contest takes place in Margate between Decatur and Huntington avenues, on the beach in front of the Ventura’s Greenhouse. “People come in from all over the country. They make it a point to come in at that time of year and reconnect and visit with old friends, and everybody hangs out on the beach, and it’s just such a magical day, truly,” Baker said.

n 2001, Dean Randazzo was at the top of his career when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the immune system. Nicknamed the “Jersey Devil,” Randazzo was the first and only New Jersey surfer to qualify for the prestigious World Surf League tour. Faced with the life-altering news, Randazzo struggled with whether to tell his sponsors, fearing it would jeopardize the support that fueled his career. He ultimately re- Surfers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate in the competition. vealed his diagnosis at the U.S. Open of Surfing in 2001, and while positive — give back and help other a younger age, where a lot of my some sponsors pulled away, many friends weren't really too concerned people.” stepped up to support Randazzo’s about insurance, just because when That same year, he started the fundraising efforts. you're young, you feel healthy and Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation. Randazzo, who was in his early invincible,” Randazzo said. “So I was Although the nonprofit wasn't 30s at the time, used his situation just thinking, ‘What if other people officially formed at the time, the first to drive his efforts in helping others out there got sick like I did and didn't Surf for a Cause event was held in fighting similar battles. have health insurance?’ So I figured September 2001, “I had insurance but I was at I’d turn a bad situation into something just months after his diagnosis. Now, more than two decades later, the foundation has raised over $1 million to assist cancer patients and their families and has expanded its fundraising efforts to include events like Paddle for a Cause, Yoga for a Cause, Golf for a Cause and Concert for a Cause. All proceeds go toward the foundation’s mission of easing financial stress by supply- Dean Randazzo used his situation to drive his efforts in helping ing aid for travel, others fighting similar battles as him. treatment, rent and Surfers of all ages and skill levels mortgage payments for those under— from 8-year-olds to adults in their going cancer treatment. “When someone in a family is di70s — are encouraged to participate. agnosed, it affects everybody. People Registration is open at thedrcf.org. have to take off work, and there's loss The contest runs from 8 a.m. into the of finances and [it] becomes a real early afternoon and is followed by stress,” Randazzo said. “The last thing a beachside after-party with buffet we want is people stressing about food, live music by Head High, raffle finances when they should focus on prizes and a cash bar. the disease and get better. “My favorite part [of the day] is The nonprofit was officially grantbringing the community together. Friends and people come from all ed 501(c)(3) status in 2021, and its reach has grown exponentially since. over and it's a reunion type setting,” All board members and event orgaRandazzo said. “It’s built around nizers are volunteers, and the foundasomething I love — surfing.”

20

July 31, 2025


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Wonderland’s Ferris wheel lit up once again

By Julia Train

F

or nearly 10 months, the 144-foot-tall Ferris wheel at the former Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, once visible from the Ninth Street Bridge, has stood dark and lifeless. But not anymore. On Monday, July 28, Bill Merritt, and another member of the civic group Ocean City 2050, installed rotating laser lights at the base of the Ferris wheel. The lighting effort follows a proposal Merritt presented at the Thursday, July 17 City Council meeting. In his remarks, Merritt outlined a plan to illuminate the structure using simple, low-cost laser lights, commonly seen in home holiday displays, for the remainder of the summer. “Electricity is going to cost $12 for about two months because it's LEDs.

They're really cheap,” said Merritt, a founding member of Ocean City 2050. While he requested support from the governing body, the council did not comment on the proposal during the session. Despite the lack of formal feedback, Merritt talked to Eustace Mita himself, the owner of the property and hotel developer who wants to turn the site into a 252-room luxury resort hotel. Mita told Merritt he could try to do it, although it wouldn’t have the same effect as before, so he did. The installation involved mounting five lasers on four wooden, 2-by-6foot boards, which were then laid beneath the Ferris wheel and angled upward. The lasers, which emit red, green and blue beams, are aimed to reflect off the wheel’s spokes and cars, Merritt said. The project is not intended to bring the Ferris wheel back into operation as a ride. The goal is entirely aesthetic: to reintegrate the once-beloved attraction into the Boardwalk’s nighttime experience, if only visually. The Ferris wheel itself remains non-functional.

Photo by Steffen Klenk The lights are clearly visible from nearby locations such as the Boardwalk ramp at Sixth Street, though visibility decreases with distance due to ambient lighting throughout Ocean City. Merritt said he will continue to experiment with laser positioning and rotation speed to enhance the effect. Adjustments are ongoing to improve brightness and reflection angles, especially to make the lights more noticeable from farther away. Mita told the Press of Atlantic City that the Ferris wheel has its own lights and the ride could be programmed to display different images for different times of year such as a

rotating pumpkin for Halloween, or green trees or candy canes for Christmas. However, he said that those lights are not currently functioning and it would cost about $700,000 to make them operational. Ocean City 2050 launched on March 3, and was formed in response to growing concerns over governance, planning and development. The group aims to be a voice for the community, especially with the future of the defunct Gillian’s Wonderland Pier. “At the end of the day, this is not about bringing back Wonderland in its old form,” Merritt said. “We know we have to move the town forward, but it is about the kids. They need a place to go.” Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain

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23


Seven spots to watch the sunrise in South Jersey

By Delaney Crawford

T

here’s no better way to start your day than with salty air, watching as pink skies brighten the world. Something about a South Jersey sunrise hits differently. Maybe it’s the gentle hush of waves meeting the shore or the glowing colors that stretch across the sky as the rest of the world slowly wakes up. Whatever it is, we’re lucky to have some of the best sunrise views right here on our coast, and there’s no better way to start the day. Whether you’re a morning person or just willing to wake up early for the view, here are seven of the best spots in South Jersey to catch a breathtaking sunrise. Make August the month of sunrises and check them all out!

1. Ocean City Boardwalk

If you want the perfect combination of peacefulness and people-watching,

Ride OF

the Ocean City Boardwalk is the place to be. The boardwalk offers unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean and plenty of space to find your own perfect sunrise-watching perch. You’ll spot runners, dog walkers and bikers getting their day started as the sun peeks over the horizon.

in the distance and the curve of the beach drawing your eye toward the sunrise, it’s a picture-perfect view and you’ll often catch a few surfers out catching early waves, adding to the serene energy.

2. The beach at Fifth Street, Ocean City

For those who want something a little quieter than the boardwalk towns, Margate’s beach at Huntington Avenue is a hidden gem. Just far enough from the busiest parts of town, it’s got everything you want for a peaceful sunrise moment: soft sand, views and a front-row seat to the sky turning pink, orange and gold.

Just a few steps off the boardwalk, the beach at Fifth Street is a quiet favorite among locals and photographers. It’s wide, clean and rarely crowded at dawn. With the pier

3. Margate Beach at Huntington Avenue

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Brigantine’s jetty is where the ocean meets the bay, and it's a must-visit for sunrise chasers. The sun rises directly over the water here, casting light across the jetty rocks and creating a glow that seems to hang in the air. It’s also one of the few places where you can feel totally immersed in nature while still being just minutes from the city. Bring your camera, or just your coffee, and soak in the view from the rocks or the sand nearby.

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Ventnor’s fishing pier offers a stunning, less-crowded alternative to some of the more touristy areas. The long stretch of wooden boards takes you right out over the ocean, offering a unique vantage point for sunrise, especially on clear mornings when the horizon is sharp and glowing. The surrounding beaches are equally inviting, and there’s something about being directly over the water that makes the sun’s arrival feel even more special.

6. Cape May Point State Park

For a slightly more adventurous

morning, head down to Cape May Point and watch the sunrise from the beach by the lighthouse. It’s where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, and the sunrise views here are unlike anywhere else in the state. As the sun comes up, it casts light on the historic Cape May Lighthouse and the rolling dunes around it. There are also quiet walking trails nearby if you want to take a sunrise stroll after the show.

7. The Cove, Cape May

The Cove is one of those magical South Jersey spots where the horizon feels endless and the crowd always seems to stay quiet in reverence of the view. Located at the southern tip of Cape May, this stretch of beach offers sunrise views that melt into the morning mist.

Rise and shine, South Jersey

No matter where you go, catching the sunrise in South Jersey is a reminder of just how lucky we are to live, or vacation, here. It’s free, it’s peaceful, and it’s a daily reminder of nature’s beauty, before the emails, errands and crowds. So set that alarm a little earlier, grab your coffee and watch the day begin the best way possible. Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. After earning a BA in Communications, Delaney built a successful career in the newspaper industry, honing skills in, news writing, media, and content creation. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DC's Social Media & Content Creation, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.

July 31, 2025


Summer Fridays at Fisherman’s Park

By Chef Christina Martin

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recently visited Fisherman’s Park, Massachusetts and Drexel avenues in Atlantic City, for one of its C.R.O.P.S. Summer Fridays.

C.R.O.P.S. (Communities Revolutionizing Open Public Spaces), partnered with the Atlantic Center for Independent Living at Fisherman’s Park to provide access to food through the Community Garden and Farmers Market. Summer Fridays run through Sept. 19. There is free round-trip jitney transportation from two Atlantic City locations: Baltic Plaza, departing at 3:45 p.m.; and Altman Terrace, departing at 5:15 p.m. Transportation is on a first-come-first-serve basis for up to 13 passengers.

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The day I visited, the C.R.O.P.S. team was hard at work stocking the market tables with gorgeous, locally grown fresh produce. The market also had herbs as well as honey. There was fresh watermelon, garlic, zucchini, herbs, corn on the cob, peppers, kale, cabbage and more. It had such a community feel, the way farmers markets were intended to be. They accept SNAP/EBT, CROPS team members Soph, Liam(intern) and WIC vouchers, cash and card. Alexis at the Friday market They offer hands-on activities in the beautiful community was also yoga in the park for those gardens. You can stroll next to the wishing to stretch and enjoy the marina and clamming boats. It's a tranquility. There are some upcoming events calming and relaxing place to visit. you may want to take part in, includVolunteers were there tending ing Wellness in the Garden at Fisherthe gardens along with members of C.R.O.P.S., who maintain the garden man’s Park Community Garden, 4-6 beds. p.m. Friday, Aug. 1. Attendees will Shannon Gee, a UCAN (Urban enjoy mindful movement, gardening, nutrition education and journaling. Coastal Agriculture Network) farmer, greeted me with a big hug. He told Also upcoming is the C.R.O.P.S. me about what he is producing in the 5th Annual Farm to Fork Fundraiser, garden beds at Fisherman’s Park. He 6 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 30 at Cardinal also sells his produce at other local restaurant, 201 S. New York Ave. in Atlantic City. The event helps farmers markets. pay operating costs for C.R.O.P.S. The C.R.O.P.S. team was friendly and helpful to people who had come programs including the farm share, to purchase fresh veggies. There farmers markets and the C.R.O.P.S.

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Summer Fridays Farmers Market. Photos by Christina Martin Food Hub. It also supports the UCAN farm training program and education workshops. Garden volunteer days take place 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21 at The Arc Community Garden, 1311 N. Main St., Pleasantville; and 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22 at Fisherman’s Park Community Gardens. Both have free parking. To volunteer RSVP to jazcona@cropsnj.org Visit the C.R.O.P.S. website at www.cropsnj.org for more information and for tickets to upcoming events. Below is a recipe using beans, radishes, onions and basil which you can find at the markets. It’s an easy and light summer side dish highlighting what is freshly harvested from the garden.

Fresh Bean Salad

Ingredients: ● 1 quart thin fresh beans, mixed green and yellow, trimmed ● 6-8 radishes thinly sliced ● 1 small red onion thinly sliced ● 1 small bunch basil, thinly sliced in ribbons ● 1 lemon, juiced ● 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ● Salt and pepper to taste Procedure: Blanch the beans in a large pot of salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Shock in ice water and allow to drain dry. Toss the beans, radishes, onions and basil with the lemon juice and zest, olive oil, salt and pepper. Enjoy and refrigerate leftovers.

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Shore True Value in Somers Point rebrands: A 60-year family legacy continues

Business Buzz By Rich Baehrle

S

hore True Value Hardware is now Shore Ace Hardware — marking a new chapter for the third-generation family business. We go through our daily lives not knowing the stories behind some of our favorite businesses in our communities. We don’t realize the blood, sweat and tears that go on to make them not only survive, but to thrive. Competition over the years has become more intense between not only local businesses, but now each and every one faces fierce online competitors. We don’t even know or meet the online competitors, but we know they are there every time Fedex or UPS delivers a package at

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our neighbors’ doors. the business over to the next The consumers have a generation of Guintas. Paul Jr. variety of choices where they and Alison not only learned the can purchase their merchanbusiness, but also they became dise. The question is, what deeply embedded and involved does a business have to do with the community, which to differentiate themselves? helps to maintain and expand The owners of Shore Ace the bond with the customers. Hardware, formerly Shore The road was not always easy for Paul Jr. and Alison. True Value, have been sepThey expanded their prodarating themselves from the competition for over 60 ucts and services in order to years. maintain and expand their From the first day of customer base. business in 1963, propriHowever, along the way they have faced challenges etor and entrepreneur Sam Giunta started Shore True from a fire in June 2018 and Value Hardware with one the Covid-19 pandemic. Their thought in mind: quality loyal customers seemed to like service. He wanted to make the friendly environment with sure when customers came knowledgeable employees, who know their customers’ into the store, he and all of names and needs. It is parthe employees would have the proper answers to the amount to have a team who many questions about home reflects the core family values repair and maintenance. This Paul Guinta Jr. and Alison Dannenhower owners of Shore Ace and goals. philosophy rings clear to this Hardware and brother and sister After much thought and day. consideration, The Guintas reShore Hardware is a true family been passed down three generations. cently made the decision to rebrand success story where the torch has Sam Guinta was fortunate to have a Shore True Value Hardware as Shore son, Paul, who was raised in the busiAce Hardware. ness, where he learned the original “We are keeping the same fanmotto: “Provide the best service postastic team members. We will be sible and you will have a customer for conducting the change over the next life.” Paul and his wife Alison assumed couple of months with an expected the reins back in the early 1980s. The completion in October of 2025. The Somers Point community came to inventory will be expanding. We will expect the same courteous service be offering online options, loyalty that Sam provided. programs and national promotions,” The store services and products Paul Jr. said. grew almost exponentially to the Customers will still be able to 10,000- square-foot building as find hard-to-find parts and quality it is today. Paul knew if the store merchandise for just about every was going to continue to grow, the household need. product lines and services would So far, the transition from to Shore have to expand; So, he did just that. Ace Hardware has been seamless. Ace They listened to their customers' Hardware, like True Value, is deeply requests and expanded the invenrooted in the communities they serve. tory to include such items as paint The store will continue to be a vital mixing, top-of-the-line Weber and resource for local residents, offering Traeger grills and accessories and expert advice and support for all of one of South Jersey’s largest lawn the home improvement needs. and garden supplies. Stop in at 515 New Road, Somers Point to see the difference with even However, they pride themselves on quality and knowledgeable embetter tools, paint products and other ployees who can solve any question items. See them on facebook shore — simple or complex — that customace hardware or on Instagram. ers generally cannot receive at the Remember to shop local, especialbig box stores. ly small businesses. In 2005, Paul Jr. and his sister Alison Dannenhower, who were raised in Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire the business and learned everything Hathaway Fox and Roach, can from nuts and bolts to running the be reached at 609-226-6680 business, knew it was time to step up or 609-641-0011. Email richand purchase the business. ardbaehrle@gmail.com or see Paul senior and his wife Alison also www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com knew the time was right to transition

July 31, 2025


Celebrating 70 Years!

yday r e v E n e p Now O sday e u T t p e c x E SCAN FOR TICKETS


Atlantic County 4-H Fair returns for 76th year, celebrating youth achievement

By Madison Russ

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or 76 years, the Atlantic County 4-H Fair has been a summertime staple. This year, the tradition continues with two days of contests, performances and family fun from Aug. 8 through 9. The fair is also a chance to celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of local 4-H students. This year’s event features a full lineup of activities, including fan favorites such as the pie- and watermelon-eating contests, live music, a car show, a chicken barbecue, free crafts, rides, and a baby parade followed by a “Teddy Bear Tea.” Visitors can also catch the pet parade and performances by 4-H clubs such as the Twirlybirds baton

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Attendees can visit and play with a variety of animals at the fair. twirlers, Clover Cloggers and Tae Kwon Do club. New this year are free games for children. Atlantic County’s 4-H program dates back to around 1930. The county fair, officially launched in 1948, is the organization’s biggest fundraiser

of the year. Joni Grunow, who has been volunteering with Atlantic County 4-H for 50 years and serves as a leader for the Twirlybirds club, was involved in 4-H when she was younger, alongside her mother. Her granddaughter has

since become a co-leader for the Twirlybirds. For Grunow, seeing kids thrive at the fair is the best part. “My favorite part is when I see my girls up there. When they’re all up there, they all smile when they’re up there,” she said. “I just see them enjoying it, which is why I’m here doing what I’m doing. We do it for the kids.” Nationally, 4-H is the largest youth development organization in the country, serving more than 6.5 million children. In New Jersey, it reaches more than 55,000 youth from cities, suburbs and rural areas alike, offering hands-on experiences that help kids from kindergarten through 13th (one year out of high school) build lifelong skills. Largely powered through the efforts of volunteers like Grunow, 4-H offers many children a positive outlet. Despite the misconception that 4-H is just for farm kids, Atlantic County’s 4-H program includes clubs ranging from livestock to STEM and sewing. “We used to have a button years ago that used to say, ‘4-H ain’t all cows and cooking,’ and it’s because,

July 31, 2025


back in the day, that’s how it started with everybody having farms, and it was the girls were cooking and the boys were taking care of the animals. And it’s so much more, like baton twirling,” Grunow said. “We’re not just animals or canning.” Today, the local clubs give back to the community through outreach efforts like Thanksgiving food drives, creating Christmas stockings for veterans, a Tae Kwon Do club kicka-thon to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Twirlybirds’ goodie bags for local seniors. Grunow said they try to remind the community that 4-H is active year-round, not just in August during the fair. The pie eating contest is one of the fair's beloved activities. Jenny Schreiber of Estell Manor, whose children have been involved in as important. and we want more kids and we want 4-H over the years, said there’s a club “Just basically passing the word more volunteers,” she said. “Our main for everyone. Her daughter, 29-yeararound to let them know we’re here focus now is just to get the word out old Sarahann, came back as a volunteer, and her son, 13-year-old Zachary, is involved with the Tae Kwon Do and poultry clubs. “I would definitely tell other parents to get involved,” Jenny said. “There’s definitely a club for every child, from robotics to sharpshooters to chickens, rabbits, tractors, small engines.” The Atlantic County 4-H program also provides kids with enriching experiences, such as trips for teens to Washington, D.C., to learn more about government and a chance to attend the National 4-H Congress. As Sarahann explains, 4-H helps guide kids toward becoming productive members of society and keeps them active. “They’re not sitting on their tablets or phone — they’re getting involved, working on a project and applying themselves to something, which is nice, and these are skills they will be able to use later in life, all the while feeling like they can actually do something for themselves,” said Sarahann. Jenny said 4-H has given her kids valuable life skills, such as public speaking, which Sarahann agrees with. “It definitely forced me out of my bubble and my little shell. And with a lot of those trips, I was able to meet 4-Hers from all over the country,” Sarahann said. “By coming out to the fair, you’re not only supporting the kids, you’re supporting your own community in a sense. You’re helping that next generation and saying to them that they are important and all their hard work is important in their own community and to keep doing what you’re doing.” Grunow said attending the fair is one way to support Atlantic County 4-H, but spreading the word is just

July 31, 2025

there — when somebody sees that clover or hears the word '4-H,' they know what we are.” The Atlantic County 4-H Fair will take place Friday, Aug. 8, from 2-10 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 9, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. at the Atlantic County 4-H Fairgrounds at 3210 Route 50 in Mays Landing. Admission is free, and parking is $5. For more information, visit ac4hfair.org. Madison Russ is an awardwinning journalist , copy editor and adjunct professor of communication based in Atlantic County. An Ocean City native, Madison is passionate about telling stories that matter to locals , often spotlighting nonprofits and exploring the area's vibrant arts scene.

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Sweetwater Marina & Riverdeck to host fifth annual duct tape boat regatta

By Rebecca Oldham

The Sweetwater Marina & Riverdeck, located at 2780 7th Ave.,

prepares to host The Great Race on the Mighty Mullica, its fifth annual duct tape boat regatta. Presented by the Sweetwater Yacht Club, the River Deck will hold the event on Sunday, Aug. 3, bringing together creative minds and fearless paddlers for a day of fun on the Mullica River. Contestants will compete with boats made entirely out of duct tape and cardboard to see who can survive the journey to the finish line without

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sinking. Jet skis and boats will be stationed throughout the course to ensure a safe recovery in the case that the soggy boats do sink. Registration is posted online and will remain open until July 30 with a $10 entry fee per team. However, there is still hope for last-minute racers if they miss the deadline. According to Sweetwater Yacht Club member Ed McAllister, a few spots will remain open for registration on the day of the event. “There will be a few spots left for walk-in registration, but it really is a festival of fun, so a lot of people just like to watch,” said McAllister. As of right now, there are about 10 boats getting ready for competition. However, that is subject to change as the date for the race approaches. “A lot of people register near the end, so we really don’t have a headcount just yet,” McAllister said. Contestants may sign up as single entrants, braving the journey on their cardboard vessels solo, or on teams. Single entrants must be over 18 years old. Teams may include families. All children competing must be over 6 years old and accompanied by an adult. Check-in begins at 10 a.m., followed by boat check and safety inspection at 10:30 a.m. The race kicks off at 11:30 a.m., with prizes

awarded to contestants at the end of the day. Judges will decide on first, second and third place, but there is also a People’s Choice Award and a "Titanic Award” for the best sinking ship. Spectators can look forward to a lively atmosphere and plenty of

laughs as the duct tape boats fight to try and stay afloat. The regatta has become a beloved summer tradition, challenging the creativity of its contestants to see who can design the sturdiest boat. The event promises entertainment, creativity and a splash of friendly competition. All information regarding the event and registration forms can be found at SweetwaterYachtClub.com. Rebecca Oldham is an emerging journalist and writer located in South Jersey’s Pine Barrens. She enjoys writing about the arts and all things community.

July 31, 2025


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Gardening advice and expertise just a phone call away intensive training program and are also required to fulfill a period of volunteer service hours to earn their Master Gardener certification. The Rutgers Master Gardeners use their skills to perform a wide range of community services, including performing gardening demonstrations, staffing the horticultural helpline, staffing information booths at the 4-H fair and assisting at other public events. In addition to other programs run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, the 4-H Fair is one of their largest fundraisers of the year. The Atlantic County 4-H Fair will take place Aug. 8 and 9.

By Tammy Thornton

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hether you have a sick plant, questionable insects or would like your soil tested, gardening expertise is just a phone call away through the Rutgers Cooperative Extension. With offices serving both Atlantic and Cape May counties, residents have access to a wealth of gardening information right at their fingertips. The Cooperative Extension System was established way back in 1914 through the Smith-Lever Act, creating a framework for land-grant institutions to educate the public in agricultural practices. Today, these universities continue to support their communities with research and education. For local gardeners, certified Master Gardeners serve as a volunteer arm of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension through various educational events and programs as well as a horticultural helpline. Both the Atlantic and Cape May County extensions also offer a diverse 4-H Youth Development Program. Wondering what weird bugs are crawling all over your zinnias or why your previously healthy zucchini plants have abruptly died? The Rutgers Cooperative Extension can help you solve these garden mysteries. While Master Gardeners are happy to answer these types of questions over the phone, they may need to see your problem

This rain or shine event will feature rides, horse shows, exhibits, vendors, demonstrations, robotics, a car show and live music. The fair will be held at the Atlantic County 4-H Fairgrounds at 3210 Rt. 50, Mays Landing. For gardening questions, you can contact the Horticultural Helpline, and a friendly Master Gardener will be happy to help you. In Atlantic County, call: (609) 625-0056. Cape May County gardeners can call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3653. You can also explore the website for a wealth of information by visiting the Rutgers Cooperative Extension online.

plant in person. If so, you can also make an appointment and bring a sample of the questionable culprit for a more in-depth examination. Recently, Maria Moss of Egg Harbor Township was having a problem with discoloration of the leaves on her miniature boxwood plants. She was concerned that the issue was spreading to her other plants, but she wanted to treat the problem with something that would be environmentally safe and not harm her other flowers. She consulted with her Master Gardener friend, Mary Breckley of Northfield, who suggested they have Rutgers Extension take a closer look. The friends made an appointment and took a sample of the boxwood to the Atlantic County Extension. Moss later reported, “I was very pleased with their assessment of the problem and the solution they offered. They were able to look at my boxwood cuttings under a microscope and give a diagnosis. I was relieved that they could recommend an environmentally safe product.” Master Gardeners go through an

July 31, 2025

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or the 24th year in a row, art and surfing collide in a must-see event on the Ocean City Boardwalk. The Art of Surfing is a vibrant celebration of surf culture in South Jersey, brought to life through original art, live music and the craftsmanship of surfboard-making. This free, family-friendly event invites guests to experience surf culture in a whole new way, by shopping local artwork, meeting artists from across the country, enjoying live music and embracing the laid-back beach vibe that is South Jersey. Kicking off Thursday, July 31, and running through Saturday, Art of Surfing will take place at the Ocean City Music Pier. The event opens tonight from 5-10 p.m., and continues Friday and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., allowing everyone plenty of time to explore all that it has to offer. Wondering what to expect? As soon as you step inside the Music Pier, you’ll be transported into a surfer’s paradise. Twenty-four local artists and makers will be scattered throughout the space, each selling original, surf-inspired work. From beach-themed paintings and photography to handmade clothing, jewelry and more, the range of art is wide and all of it is rooted in the surf and shore lifestyle. You’ll also find live demonstrations of how surfboards are made, showcasing the skill and artistry that goes into shaping these boards by hand.

“That feeling that people get when they come here, that’s what we’re trying to highlight,” said Aaron ‘Bogy’ Bogushefsky, the event’s showrunner. “Surfing is a huge part of our beach culture here, but it may not be for everyone, so we’re trying to make it more accessible to everyone through this event.” Bogy took over the operations of the Art of Surfing event four years ago. Since then, he’s placed a bigger focus on highlighting not only the surf community as a whole, but also the artists and makers within that world. His mission is to keep the event local, showcasing the creators who live and work in the area. While the event draws crowds from near and far, many people have said they even plan their vacations around it. However, the heart of it is rooted in the local scene. Bogy emphasized that Art of Surfing is a platform to give exposure to our local artists, connect them with new audiences, and teach visitors about the deeper culture that exists along the Jersey Shore. “We have every imaginable art style you can think of, from oil painting, illustrations, wood carving and recycled artwork to clothing, jewelry-making, bathing suits and everything in between,” Bogy said. “We were really trying to hit everything, and I think we have a great variety this year of artists.” After 24 years, some events might lose steam, but Art of Surfing has only grown. What began in a small Ocean City art gallery has expanded

July 31, 2025


to the Ocean City Music Pier, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Crowds pour in from the Boardwalk to explore the vibrant, creative scene inside, and, as Bogy hopes, leave with a new appreciation for surf culture, beach life and local art. “We’re happy to be involved each year and continue to promote the surf culture,” Bogy said. “We think of it as almost an insight into the locals’ scene. Outside people may not really understand the culture here, but once they come in, they can kind of learn and grow more respect and appreciation for our area and what goes on here year-round.” Adding to the weekend’s excitement, live music will fill the Music Pier all three days. Local bands will take the stage, bringing even more energy and local pride to the event. Petty Cash kicks off the festivities

tonight from 5 to 10 p.m. On Friday, L&J Band will open the day, with Te Vista closing the night. Saturday’s lineup includes The Asburys in the afternoon, and HeadHigh will wrap up the event with a final evening performance. All performers, like the artists and vendors, are local creatives who give back to the community through their work, whether that’s through music, crafting or art. “We’re trying to really promote the locals,” Bogy said. “Between the music, the makers, and the artists, I’m really trying to help support the local people that are creating things and making something exciting for us here.” Bogy and the team who bring this event to life each year are driven by a love for the beach, the arts and the people who make this area special. “My hope for the artists is that they have success in sharing their work with others and that they can support themselves further to continue their work,” Bogy said. “For all the people who will come in, I hope they gain a greater appreciation for the beach culture down here that they might not have been aware of before.” Photos by Steffen Klenk

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July 31, 2025

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Night in Venice celebrates champions

Flyers mascot Gritty greeting fans. By Steffen Klenk

I

t was a party like no other on Saturday night as Ocean City marked its 70th annual Night in Venice boat parade. Thousands

found prime viewing spots along the bayside, some adorning their favorite team’s jersey, for this year’s theme commemorating “70 Years of Champions.” Over 50 themed boats participated in the festivities,

Mayor Jay Gillian, and wife Michele. many brandishing the colors of Philadelphia’s popular sports teams. The Super Bowl champion Eagles were

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a clear favorite among paradegoers this year. The grand marshals this year included a trove of Philadelphia sports icons. Flyers goalie Bernie Parent led the procession, joined by the team’s beloved fluffy, orange mascot, Gritty. Former Eagles wide receiver Vince Papale was also aboard for Saturday’s event, as was former Phillies outfielder and general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. Also appearing along the parade route were the Miss Night in Venice contestants; Mayor Jay Gillian and his wife, Michele; members of City Council; this year’s Miss Night in Venice Queen, Giuliana Guardascione; Miss New Jersey Belle Nicholas and this year’s Queen Infanta, who will preside over the Baby Parade on Thurs., Aug. 14 at 10:30 a.m. on the boardwalk. Next year, Night in Venice will mark its 71st anniversary on July 25, 2026. Mark your calendars now, and visit www.ocnj.us/niv for a complete rundown of all of this year’s boat results. Photos by Steffen Klenk

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July 31, 2025


Photos by Steffen Klenk

July 31, 2025

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New nurses find a home at Shore

Views from the Shore By Brian Cahill

I

recently had the pleasure of spending some time with three of Shore Medical Center’s newer nurses — Jessica Dagene, Taylor McCreight and Tyler Melnicove — and hearing firsthand why they chose to start their careers here. After listening to their stories, it’s easy to see why Shore is such a special place. Jessica Dagene works on our Med/Surg and neuro floor. She just graduated from Stockton’s accelerated nursing program in December and has been with Shore for about four months — her very first nursing job. What stuck with me was how she approaches each patient as a person first. “The first thing I want all my patients to know is that I’m here for them, and I care about what’s import-

Jessica Dagene, a recent graduate of Stockton’s accelerated nursing program, works on Shore’s Med/Surg and neuro floor in her first nursing role. She’s known for approaching each patient as a person first. ant to them,” Jessica told me. “Even if it’s something outside their diagnosis. I learned quickly that finding out what matters most to them really elevates how they see the care they’re getting here.” Jessica actually did her first hospital clinical at Shore with Elaine

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helping them know what’s normal. Sometimes it’s just talking about their other kids or pets to keep them comfortable. It’s those small things that make a big difference.” And then there’s Tyler Melnicove, who works in our ER. Tyler spent more than a decade in EMS before going back to school during the pandemic, inspired by a nurse he worked with on critical care transports. “The teamwork here is just top notch,” Tyler said. “Everybody works together — from nursing to respiratory to aides. Even when we’re busy, we work as a team to make sure patients get the best care.” Taylor McCreight, now a nurse in Maternal He also couldn’t say enough Child Health, graduated from Stockton’s about the education program. accelerated program and previously worked at “For a standalone private hospiShore as a nurse aide, gaining experience on tal, it’s really impressive. The clinnearly every floor and a deep appreciation for the ical educators and my preceptor team’s culture of care. have molded me into the nurse Toolsie. That experience made such I am, and that just continues every an impact that Elaine told her to apply week.” right then and held her application until she finished school. Now, Jessica says, “There’s never a day where I feel like I can’t talk to one of my coworkers or my charge nurse or manager. That was a huge part of why I picked coming to Shore.” Then there’s Taylor McCreight in Maternal Child Health. Taylor also graduated from Stockton’s accelerated program, but even before that, she worked at Shore as a nurse aide, floating through nearly every floor. It gave her a real feel for the people here and how they care for one another. “When I was an aide, I got to see so many different departments and meet so many amazing nurses and managers,” she said. “So, when I finished school, I knew this was where I wanted Tyler Melnicove, now working in Shore’s ER, to be.” spent over a decade in EMS before going back to Taylor was thrilled to start her school during the pandemic, inspired by a nurse full-time career right in maternity he worked with on critical care transports. — the place she’d always hoped for. “It really is my dream job,” she told Talking with Jessica, Taylor and me. “I love being there for families, Tyler was a great reminder that while especially during such an important Shore invests in technology and faand sometimes overwhelming time.” cilities, it’s our people — and the way She shared how quickly her team they care — that truly sets us apart. comes together when it matters most. “When someone comes in Brian Cahill is the Director of already far along in labor, everyone Marketing for Shore Medical Cenjumps in to get lines, labs — everyter and Shore Physicians Group. thing — ready. It can be a lot, but He also volunteers on the Board it’s really amazing how we all work of the Somers Point Business Astogether so smoothly.” sociation and is an Adjunct ProTaylor also values the little mofessor in the School of Business ments. “There’s a lot of coaching and at Stockton University. reassurance — answering questions,

July 31, 2025


What’s happening in Ocean City

Boardwalk Art Show and Art of Surfing return to Ocean City

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he 62nd annual Boardwalk Art Show will be held Friday through Sunday (Aug. 1 - 3) on the Boardwalk between Eighth Street and 13th Street. Artists from throughout the region will exhibit and sell their works. The show will feature fine art, including oils, acrylics, watercolors, drawings, mixed media and photography. There is something for everyone at the show, and it’s a great opportunity to start or increase your art collection. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Awards are given to the top entries in the show. The event is sponsored by the Ocean City Arts Center and made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. For further information, call the Ocean City Arts Center at 609-399-7628 or visit www.oceancityartscenter.org. The celebration of the arts will include the 24th annual Art of Surfing Festival – Thursday to Saturday (July 31 to Aug. 2) at the Ocean City Music Pier.

This annual art festival is an event featuring original surf-related artwork, locally shaped boards and a chance to meet artists from across the region. It also features classic surfboards, memorabilia and live music. Admission is free to the show 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday (July 31) and noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday (Aug. 1 and 2). For more information on this year’s show and vendors, visit facebook.com/artofsurfingfestival.

Ocean City Pops perform blockbuster hits

At 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, the Ocean City Pops will perform “Hollywood Blockbusters,” featuring a grand tour of the biggest hits from the Silver Screen. The shows are at the Ocean City Music Pier. For tickets, visit oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice, call 609399-6111 or stop by the Music Pier Box Office.

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July 31, 2025


Cars and Coffee on tap for Saturday

The 10th annual Cars and Coffee from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 2 will combine two of everybody’s favorite things. More than 100 classic and unique cars will be on display on the grounds of the Ocean City Tabernacle at 550 Wesley Ave. Admission is free, and the rain date is Aug. 9.

Weekly happenings

The popular weekly Farmers Market on the grounds of the Ocean City Tabernacle is open 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Wednesday. The market features the best of fresh produce from local

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday through the summer. Downtown Asbury Avenue will feature entertainment, face-painters, balloon sculptors and more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, July 31 for Market Days.

made the transition from film to Broadway stage and is currently playing at the Hughes Performing Arts Center, presented by the City of Ocean City, the Ocean City Theatre Company and the Ocean City Pops Orchestra. With music from its Oscar- and Tony-nominated score and with dynamic new songs, “Footloose” blends the best of the iconic movie and the Broadway show. The show runs on August 5, 6, 8, 12, 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m., and on Aug. 7 and 14 at

2 p.m. For tickets ($27 to $32), visit oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice, call 609-399-6111 or stop by the Music Pier Box Office. Registration open for 115th annual Baby Parade The 115th annual Baby Parade in Ocean City is set for 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025 and registration is now open. All families with children ages 10 and under are invited to participate. Bands, performing groups and commercial floats are also encouraged to join in the fun. Complete information and registration parade are available at ocnj. us/BabyParade.

Tickets on sale for ‘Footloose’ Aug. 5 to 14

farms in the region, along with a variety of craft vendors. Mummers Night on July 31 will feature string bands strutting the Boardwalk between Sixth Street and 14th Street. Mummers Nights run

The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company and the Ocean City Pops Orchestra will team up this summer to present the musical “Footloose” with eight performances scheduled from Aug. 5 to Aug. 14 at the Bill and Nancy Hughes Performing Arts Center in Ocean City (within Ocean City High School at Sixth Street and Atlantic Avenue). “Footloose” was a groundbreaking film released in 1984. Starring a relatively unknown Kevin Bacon, the film popularized dancing like never before. Its unforgettable soundtrack, featuring artists such as Kenny Loggins, Bonnie Tyler and Sammy Hagar, perfectly complemented the expressive and emotional dance scenes. Now, "Footloose" has

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July 31, 2025


Michael Rizol, Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, helps Bill and Muriel Elliott and their daughter Jennifer unveil the Salem County Sheriff's new HERO Patrol Car. Earlier Tuesday, the Salem County Sheriff’s Department dedicated its new HERO cruiser, wrapped with the HERO Campaign’s distinctive blue and gold colors and the message, “Be a HERO. Be a Designated Driver.” The HERO vehicles then formed a motorcade for the five-mile trip to the wreath presentation ceremony. Speaking at the unveiling ceremonies, Michael Rizol, director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety (NJDHTS), applauded the Elliotts and the HERO Campaign for saving “countless lives by promoting the use of safe and sober designated drivers.” He noted that 30,000 cars of drivers arrested for DUI are impounded each year under John’s Law, passed in Elliott’s memory in 2001. The NJDHTS provides funding for the HERO cruisers. Salem County Deputy Sheriff John Cuzzupe said that he remembered the night of John Elliott’s crash and shared the Elliotts’ resolve to prevent

other families from experiencing the dreaded “knock on the door” they received, informing them of their son’s death. “John dreamed of serving his country,” said his father Bill, chairman and co-founder of the John R. Elliott HERO Campaign with his wife Muriel. “Now saving lives will be his legacy.” The HERO Campaign promotes its message of safe and sober designated driving in partnership with prevention agencies, high schools, colleges, law enforcement, bars and taverns and professional sports teams. In his memory, John’s Law in N.J. requires police to impound the cars of drunken drivers for 12 hours. In 2017, the section of Route 40 where he was killed was renamed the John R. Elliott Memorial Highway. In November 2024, the N.J. Department of Transportation dedicated the new intersection connecting I-295 with Route 42 in Camden County as the John R. Elliott Memorial Interchange.

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More than 125 young anglers expected at OCFC’s 48th annual Boys and Girls Surf Fishing Tournament

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he Ocean City Fishing Club (OCFC) expects more than 125 young fishers to participate in its 48th annual Boys and Girls Surf Fishing Tournament, which will be held Saturday, Aug. 9, and feature prizes for all anglers. Parents or guardians may register their children for the tournament on the OCFC website www.oceancityfishingclub.com, where they also will be able print out required waiver forms. Entrants will be given a gift bag and two tickets to win additional prizes when they hand in their signed waiver forms at the tournament. “We expect at least 125 youngsters to participate,” said Ed Parkinson, a club trustee who chairs the tournament committee. “Registering online and having the waivers completed ahead of time will eliminate the long lines we’ve had in the past on tournament day. Last year, we had 118 turn out to fish.” Boys and girls can begin arriving at 9 a.m. to pick their fishing spots at the north end beach near the

Longport-Ocean City bridge. Each child must bring his or her own fishing gear and bait. Fishing starts at 10 a.m. and ends at noon, when an awards presentation will be held. The tournament will be held rain or shine. The tournament has three age categories: 8-10, 11-13 and 14-16 years

old, with a boys’ and girls’ division in each age group. Parents may help children 13 years old and under to cast, but participants must do their own fishing after that. Every child who fishes will receive a prize. A complete list of rules appears on the OCFC website.

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Special prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place for both boys and girls in each age group, for not only the biggest fish caught, but for the smallest, too. Boys and girls should stay for the awards presentation whether they caught fish or not. They may find they will receive a prize because of the tickets they received when turning in their waiver forms. Club members are donating gift cards and prizes, as are many local and offshore businesses. They range from fishing rigs and accessories, to major fishing gear like three custom rods from Advanced Fishing in Avalon, one of which is the grand prize valued at $400. Other top prizes include five rod and reel combos from Tight Lines Bait & Tackle in Somers Point, with Bass Pro Shops also donating rods and reels. Fishbites supplied sample packs from its line of artificial baits, and some hungry anglers may get gift cards to McDonald’s. “I encourage everyone to stay to cheer for the age group winners,” Parkinson said, “and because winners must be present to receive these great prizes.”

An electronic, centralized scoring system will reduce waiting time before the awards ceremony. OCFC members will be on the beach to collect catch data, as well as help young anglers untangle lines, bait hooks, cast lines and release any fish caught. “Our goal is to move into the awards ceremony without any delay,” Parkinson said. “Last year, we had to track down some prize winners who left before they knew the fish they caught earned them some of our premium prizes. We don’t want that to happen again.”

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Seldon, Sanchez earn wins at Tropicana

By David Weinberg

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mithville heavyweight boxer Bruce Seldon, Jr. ruined the game plan last Friday night. Co-managers Jim Kurtz and David Dubinsky and trainer Julio Sanchez had scheduled Seldon to fight in his first six-round bout at Tropicana Casino Resort against Alexis Soriano Taveras of the Dominican Republic in an effort to test his durability. But the fight lasted less than a minute. Seldon (7-0, 6 KOs), son of former World Boxing Association world heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon, needed just 46 seconds to register the victory. “I came in here ready for a sixround fight,” Seldon said. “I had a whole game plan, to pace myself a little bit more, so I don’t get burned out in the beginning. But I personally like to let my opponents feel my power in the beginning and see how they take it, then either box or keep the pressure on.” Taveras (3-3, 1 KO) obviously didn’t take it well. Seldon backed him into the ropes in the opening seconds of the fight, then unleashed a flurry of punches while Taveras sagged to the canvas. Fans seated in the bleachers next

48

to the ring rose and roared while referee Eddie Claudio started the 10-count. Taveras sat on the canvas, his back pressed against the bottom rung of the ropes, until Claudio reached eight. He managed to get to one knee, but couldn’t pull himself up in time to avoid the stoppage. “I don’t even know what shot it was that put him down,” Seldon said. “I might have been the uppercut. It was right up the middle and then I saw him on the floor.” It marked the fastest vic- Bruce Seldon Jr. tory of Seldon’s young career, topping a 53-second knockout over put me in the best situations and as Gabriel Costa at the Tropicana in long as I keep putting in the work, March, and was his fifth first-round things will fall into place.” win. Seldon puts in the work at the Pleasantville Recreation Center, Because he had no amateur career and recently turned 30 years where Sanchez oversees a group of old, Kurtz and the rest of DKO Boxfighters that also includes his son, ing have him on an accelerated pace lightweight Julio Sanchez III. in an effort to gain experience and The younger Sanchez (2-1, 1 KO), a confidence against opponents with 23-year-old former basketball standa variety of styles. out at Atlantic City and Pleasantville Last Friday’s bout was his seventh high schools, rebounded from his first in 13 months. He’s scheduled to fight career loss with a solid performance again at the Trop in November, where that netted a TKO over Alexander he enjoys a huge following from his Stone (1-6-1, 1 KO), of Jackson, Tenn. days at Absegami High School and Referee David Franciosi stopped Atlantic City-area boxing fans. the scheduled four-round bout at the “Man, I’m still so much in the end of the third round on the advice of Stone’s corner. beginning of my career,” he said. “I am getting a little more confidence Sanchez’s best performance acwithin myself each fight, but we still tually came after the bout, when he have a ways to go. I’ve still got a lot climbed into the crowd that was in to learn. the bleachers next to the ring and “Fortunately, I have a great team gave his robe to Shaniqua Moore. behind me. I’m very blessed to have Shaniqua’s 13-year-old son, people in my corner who actually Mu’Zair “Mu” Moore of Pleasantville, died in March from injuries after getcare. I know they’re always going to ting hit by a car while walking with a friend in Egg Harbor Township. “He was on his way to becoming one of the best young athletes ever from our city,” Sanchez said. “It just felt important to me because I used to see the little boy every day. He was in the gym training, putting in the work, and I knew he was going to be special. I felt like I owed it to him to give his mom my robe.” Seldon and Sanchez fought last Friday as part of a tremendous card staged by Margate native Larry Goldberg of Boxing Insider Promotions. The show featured a terrific, action-packed main event that saw Las Vegas light-flyweight Andy Dominguez Velasquez (13-1, 6 KOs) take a 10-round, split decision over Byron Rojas (29-5-3, 12 KOs), of Holland, Mich. It was Goldberg’s fifth show at the Tropicana in the last 14 months, continuing a tradition that was started

by the late Don Elbaum and the late Teddy Menas in the 1980s and later extended by Diane Lee Fischer a decade later. Elbaum and Menas staged an amazing 196 shows as part of their Tuesday Night Fights series at the Tropicana Showroom, prompting Goldberg to honor him with a watch and plaque at the casino last November. Sadly, Elbaum passed away Sunday night at age 97. The local boxing community is also mourning the loss of former world light-heavyweight and cruiserweight champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi. Qawi, nicknamed the “Camden Buzzsaw,” died at age 72 after a five-year fight with dementia. Qawi, formerly known as Dwight Braxton, finished a 20-year pro career with a 41-11-1 record with 25 KOs. That included 23 fights in Atlantic City, where he went 21-2.

Margate Memorials, PFl slated for Friday

The 75th Margate Memorial lifeguard races are scheduled for Friday, as is the Professional Fighters League tournament at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. The Margate Memorials, the second leg of lifeguard racing’s “Big Three,” will be held at Margate’s Decatur Avenue beach starting at 6:30 p.m. and will feature the doubles row, swim and singles row. The PFL’s return to Atlantic City will feature its welterweight and featherweight Tournament Championship finals. In the main event, undefeated Thad Jean (10-0) of Haiti faces former interim Bellator champion Logan Storley (18-3) in the welterweight final. Former PFL featherweight champs Jesus Pinedo (25-6-1) and Movlid Khaybulaev (23-0-1, 1 NC) will fight in the co-main event. The 10-bout card starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. David is a nationally recognized sports columnist who has covered Philadelphia and local sports for over 40 years. After 35 years with The Press, he has served as a columnist for 973ESPN.com and created his own Facebook page, Dave Weinberg Extra Points. Send comments to weinbergd419@comcast.net.

July 31, 2025


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Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Top Weekly Entertainment Picks By Steffen Klenk

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t’s another sizzling hot summer weekend in South Jersey. Fireworks and drones offer a cool show for the Atlantic City skyline while headline acts heat up the stage. Plus, a Bee Gees tribute band performance benefits the local arts community, and illusionist Leon Etienne combines magic and rock for one magnificent show. It’s all in this week’s Entertainment Picks. Who: Toto, Men at Work, and Chris-

ST

topher Cross Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena When: Friday, Aug. 1 Time: Thursday, 5-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Website: https://casino.hardrock.

evening. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their music, this concert is a must-see. What: Fireworks and Drone Show Where: Ocean Casino Resort

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When: Friday, Aug. 1 Time: 9 p.m. Website: www.theoceanac.com/ fireworks/drone/shows Ocean Casino Resort is celebrating its seventh birthday with a spectacular Fireworks and Drone Show over the beach and Boardwalk. Witness stunning aerial formations created by choreographed drones and fireworks. With a beautiful ocean backdrop, this is an unforgettable summer celebration you won’t want to miss. What: Schultz-Hill Foundation: Disco Ball Benefit Concert Where: Superstar Theater at Resorts When: Friday, Aug. 1

July 31, 2025

Time: 8:30 p.m. Website: www.resortsac.com/entertainment/bee-gees-tribute The Schultz-Hill Foundation is hosting its annual Disco Ball this Friday evening. The event features the high-energy New York Bee Gees tribute band, along with “American Idol” finalist Crystal Stark performing a special tribute to Donna Summer. Proceeds support the foundation’s year-round arts and music outreach programs to seniors in the Atlantic City area. Who: ‘Magic ROCKS!’ Illusionist Leon Etienne Where: Sound Waves at Hard Rock

When: Saturday, Aug. 2 Time: 4 and 8 p.m. Website: https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ magic-rocks Illusionist Leon Etienne has sold out venues all over the world with his blockbuster performance of “Magic Rocks!” This critically acclaimed, interactive production is a hit for all ages and has been seen on “America’s Got Talent” and “Penn & Teller: Fool Us.” Who: The O’Jays Where: Borgata Event Center When: Saturday, Aug. 2 Time: 8 p.m.

Website: https://www.eventticketscenter.com/the-ojays-atlantic-citytickets/1154092/e After more than 60 years of entertaining audiences worldwide, the extraordinary R&B and soul kings, The O’Jays, are on their final tour. Featuring original members Eddie Levert Sr. and Walter Williams Sr., The O’Jays represent a living connection to a sound that shaped generations. Who: Dark Star Orchestra Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena When: Saturday, Aug. 2 Time: 7 p.m.

↘Continued on 52

51


↘Continued from 51 Website: https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ dark-star-orchestra Dark Star Orchestra continues the Grateful Dead live concert experience with an impressive show built off of the Dead’s extensive catalog, and a talented lineup of seven fine musicians. Fans young and old will revel in the band’s unique style and sound. Who: Lil Wayne Where: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall When: Saturday, Aug. 2 Time: 8 p.m. Website: https://w w w.boardwalkhall.com/events Catch rap icon Lil Wayne as he celebrates over 20 years of Carter Classics. The five-time Grammy winner is known for chart-topping hits and albums, and has made history with 183 entries on the Billboard Hot 100

charts. The show will open with special guest French Montana. What: Pats Place 4 Comedy Where: Studio Space, 112 Woodland Ave., Somers Point When: Saturday, Aug. 2 Time: 8 p.m. Website: www.patsplace4comedy. com

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Join Studio Space for an evening of laughs and camaraderie, featuring locally-recognized comedians and entertainers. Scheduled to perform are Randi Simon Lupo, Buda the Comedian, Scott Friedman, Leesa Toscano, and Susie Reed. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

of all New Orleans recording artists, Galactic, bring world-class talent and energy to the Atlantic City Boardwalk, led by Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph. Joining them on stage will be the Ocean Avenue Stompers, bringing an evening of high-energy brass and a taste of NOLA to South Jersey. The concert is free.

Who: Galactic and Ocean Avenue Stompers Where: Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City When: Wednesday, Aug. 6 Time: 7 p.m. Website: www.tonymart.com One of the greatest and most famous

Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.

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Directed & Choreographed by Morgan D'Alessio | Choreographed by Hannah Catanoso Music Director: Jonathan K. Kreamer | Artistic Director: Michael J. Hartman

All performances are at the Hughes Performing Arts Center (501 Atlantic Ave) Tickets range from $25 - $30. To purchase tickets visit oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice

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July 31, 2025


At Hard Rock, an ‘original’ idea for a concert series The Casino File By Chuck Darrow

O

ne byproduct of Atlantic City’s legal-gambling era has been the never-ending parade of musical acts that have hit local casino stages. Their numbers are legion and include everyone from Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett to James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, David Bowie, Andrea Bocelli and Luciano Pavarotti. But the one thing the local gaming industry has always shied away from is regional artists who perform their own material. That all changes beginning Aug. 8 as Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City launches a first-for-Atlantic City concert series dedicated to New Jersey-based artists who perform original music. The once-a-month

Michael Woodside, VP of Entertainment program, dubbed “Garden State Live,” kicks off with an appearance by Low Cut Connie, the no-frills rock 'n' roll outfit fronted by electrifying, Springsteen-adjacent singer-songwriter — and Cherry Hill native — Adam Weiner. According to Michael Woodside, Hard Rock’s vice president of entertainment, the casino wants to recog-

nize Jersey artists who may fly under the radar of its regular customers, and the public in general. “There was a moment in time when Bruce Springsteen was playing in a bar in Asbury and no one knew who he was,” Woodside said. “And as an industry, [casinos] haven't really supported the up-and-coming artists. There’s so much great talent, but we'd

never give them a chance to show their true creativity with their original content.” Woodside continued that each “Garden State Live” presentation will feature multiple acts, all of which will fit in appropriate musical categories. “Probably the biggest challenge of this whole project was that we had to cluster artists together in genres that are consistent for the night; we don't want people to show up for a country night and there’s a reggae band or whatever,” he said. The Hard Rock executive explained that to ensure consistency in the bills, the gaming hall’s partners on the project — the folks who produce the annual North2Shore festival in several Garden State locales including Atlantic City — “actually lumped all the groups together in certain categories. So, we've got pop, and we've got rock. And we've got country and we've got blues. They’ll all have dedicated nights.” Making the concept all the more enticing is that tickets for all the shows — which will be staged in the Sound Waves theater, a facility that

P R E S E N T S :

THE DISCO BALL Dust off your dancing shoes and join us for The Disco Ball - an unforgettable night of music, memories, and making a difference! Enjoy live performances by The NY Bee Gees, the premier tribute band, and special guest Crystal Stark from American Idol performing a tribute to iconic female vocalist Donna Summer.

FOR VIP TICKETS OR MORE INFORMATION VISIT SCHULTZ-HILL.ORG

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July 31, 2025


At each of the participating outposts inside the Tropicana, visitors can collect stamps to be redeemed for rewards. The more stops made, the better the rewards. The ultimate prize is a free overnight midweek stay which can be earned by spending at least $10 at each of the 14 eateries and bars. For details including the full list of participating outlets, go to caesars. com/tropicana-ac/things-to-do/ nightlife/ultimate-happy-hour-trail. can accommodate up to 1,500 people — are just $10, arguably making it Atlantic City’s bargain of the century. Woodside noted that the Jersey-centricness of “Garden State Live” doesn’t end with the talent roster. “When people arrive for these shows, we'll have New Jersey-based beer-and-wine vendors there as well,” he offered. "So, it'll be like a taste of New Jersey, both on the original content and on the beverages.” The concert series is planned to continue through June 2026, but only the 2025 shows are currently on sale: ● Aug. 8: Low Cut Connie/Isn’t It Always. ● Sept. 5: Blues night featuring Billy Walton, Twisted Livin’ and Debra Devi. ● Oct. 3: Pop-rock night featur-

ing Destinee, Red and The Grip Weeds. ● Nov. 21: Country night featuring Megan Knight, Holdyn, Barder and Kenny Curcio. ● Dec. 19: Singer-songwriter night featuring Max Davey, Maddie Hogan and Camille. For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.

gram takes the standard happy-hour concept to a different level with an interactive element:

Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.

Food for thought (and crawling)

Tropicana Atlantic City is bringing back what is billed as Atlantic City's largest food crawl. For the next year, the Ultimate Happy Hour Trail will offer guests 21 and over the opportunity to avail themselves of 14 “happy hours,” each with exclusive offerings. The pro-

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Schultz-Hill Foundation hosts The Disco Ball benefit concert

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he Schultz-Hill Foundation invites you to dust off your bell bottoms and join the rhythm of giving at its annual benefit concert, The Disco Ball, on Friday, Aug. 1, at 8:30 p.m. at the Superstar Theater in Resorts Casino Hotel. This year’s show features the New York Bee Gees tribute band, with special guest Crystal Stark of "American Idol" fame. Proceeds from The Disco Ball support the Schultz-Hill Foundation’s year-round arts and music outreach programs, which bring creative inspiration to students and seniors across the greater Atlantic City region. Known for their powerhouse vocals and high-energy performances, the New York Bee Gees Tribute Show brings the iconic sounds of the Bee Gees to life — from disco-era hits like “Stayin’ Alive” and “Night Fever” to early favorites like “To Love Somebody” and “Massachusetts.” The band’s members have performed with legendary artists and bands including The Alan Parsons Project,

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Featuring the New York Bee Gees

The New York Bee Gees, a Bee Gees tribute band, will be performing to raise funds for Schultz-Hill Foundation. Meatloaf, Enrique Iglesias, Queen and more. Crystal Stark will bring her signature sound with a tribute to iconic female vocalist Donna Summer. VIP tickets are available for $175 and include preferred seating plus a post-show champagne and dessert reception. General admission ($40) and preferred seating ($55) tickets are available via Ticketmaster or at the Resorts Box Office. VIP tickets

may be purchased directly at www.schultz-hill.org. Resorts Casino Hotel is the presenting sponsor, with Resorts President Mark Giannantonio and Mrs. Susan Giannantonio Crystal Stark, a top contender from "American Idol," serving as honorary chairs will be a guest performer at the benefit concert. of the event’s Celebrity Committee. Additional sponsorships and individuals a chance to support begin at $500 and offer businesses arts education in a meaningful way.

July 31, 2025


Melody Trucks keeping the Allman Brothers legacy alive at the Jersey Shore Melody and Vaylor for any? Trucks, daughter and Melody: The Fitzkee son of the late Allman Brothers and I have a Brothers Band drumproject together (Melmer Butch Trucks, ody Trucks and The will make their South Fitzkee Brothers), and Jersey debut at the we are currently writTune In, Turn On Somers Point Concert ing an album together. With Doug Deutsch Series, presented by It’s pretty exciting to be Tony Mart, on Friday, writing again. here continues to be a Aug. 8. The free show is DD: Where do you groundswell of love and scheduled for 7 p.m. at see yourself, musically, support for the Allman five years from now? William Morrow Beach, Brothers Band here at the on Bay Avenue. Melody: I see myself continuing Jersey Shore, even after the legendHere’s an interview the work I am doing ary band played its final show at the we did with Melody. I with the foundation Beacon Theatre in New York City in once did publicity work I am creating in my 2014. for her and her late fadad’s name – The The children of the Allman Brothther, Butch Trucks. Butch Trucks Legacy ers Band founders are keeping the DD: Talk about the Foundation. I want band’s legacy alive in South Jersey show you’re bringing to continue working to the southern New with their musical performances. Jersey area for your Devon Allman, son of the late Gregg with young musicians, Allman, performed last month at August 8 appearance; helping them navigate Borgata Casino as part of the Allman who is in your band, Melody Trucks and her brother, Vaylor, will make their South Jersey debut at the music industry and Betts Band, alongside Duane Betts, etc? the Somers Point Concert Series 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8. Photo by Sidney Smith helping to pass on the son of late Dickey Betts. Devon will Melody: This band musical traditions of return to Atlantic City with his Blues is a dream. Everyone in the band is Ryan Gregg will be on the keys, and jam. The last three years I have been Summit on Aug. 20 at Kennedy Plaza amazing. My brother, Vaylor, will be my rhythm section will be the Fitzkee working with the Fitzkee Brothers on the Boardwalk. on guitar; phenom and local legend Brothers (Drew on bass and Alex on and their family. Their mother, Chadrums). All are Roots Rock Revival na Fitzkee, has been my partner in alum and insanely talented. helping to create the foundation DD: What would you say are the and plan and execute our passion most important lessons you gleaned project, Road to Roots. This project is something that is very dear to us. from your father as far as performing music and living the life of a musician? We partner with music programs Melody: There were definitely to teach the fundamentals of jam some amazing lessons he taught me music and spread the word about about playing the type of music he Roots Rock Revival – a music mashelped to pioneer. First and foremost ters retreat that my dad created – never be afraid to sound bad. What that happens in Big Indian, New York that means is, get out of your own every year (usually occurring the last ego and put the music first. The muweek of July/first week of August). sic is ALWAYS first. He loved doing The Fitzkee Brothers have been inwhat he called “dangling his toes tegral in keeping this project moving FULL BAR over the edge of oblivion.” You put forward, being the core of the band that travels with me for this project. yourself out there musically, letting 7 DAYS A WEEK 4-7PM everything go. If the people playing I also see myself continuing to write, with you are doing the same; it could record and tour with the Fitzkees. I love them! possibly turn into a train wreck, but it could also take you somewhere you’ve never been before. That is the Tune Ups magic of music. The Dark Star Orchestra, the bigDD: What does the Allman Brothgest, most popular of the Grateful ers Band legacy mean to you? Dead tribute bands, will play AC this Saturday, Aug. 2, at Hard Rock Live/ Melody: The Allman Brothers Etess Arena. Band was more than just a band to me. They are my family. I have on a Selection of immense pride in what they accomDoug is the owner/operator of plished. Their music has changed the Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, world, but they’ve done it by touching which since 1995 has been Sun-Thurs 1pm-10pm • Fri & Sat 1pm-11pm people in profound ways that you servicing nationally touring cannot quantify. I am honored that I GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE acts, and working record release get to play even a tiny part in keeping campaigns for clients. Doug can that alive. be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@ DD: Have you done any recent new gmail.com 9210 Ventnor Avenue, Margate • (609) 822-4759 recordings, and/or do you have plans

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By Delaney Crawford

O

ne thing special about South Jersey is the locals’ loyalty to their favorite food and drink joints. One such place that locals and visitors alike flocked to time and time again was Waterdog Smoke House, located on Ventnor Ave in Ventnor City. With its recent closure, many wondered where they’d find that same quality and flavor again. But, of course, Waterdog owners Steve Marchel and Robin Kramer knew they couldn’t let Margate go without their expertise, or their food, for long.

Enter Betty’s

The first addition to the now-beloved Betty’s brand, Betty’s Seafood Shack, opened in May 2023 and quickly became a neighborhood favorite. Fast forward to May 2025, and the husband-and-wife duo launched a second concept, Betty’s BBQ & Fried Chicken, located just steps away. And, as of just last week, they completed the trifecta with Betty’s Creemee Stand, an ice cream and water ice spot rounding out the block, all right on the bay. The ideas for the three concepts had each been brewing for years.

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From Waterdog to Betty’s: A South Jersey duo brings new life to Amherst Ave

Steve and Robin, both born and raised in South Jersey and graduates of Atlantic City High School, spent time living in New England during college, where they fell in love with the region’s food culture. Inspired by those coastal seafood shacks, they wanted to bring those concepts back home. “We still to this day go up and stop along all the different seafood shops up there, and I just thought to myself, ‘Margate needs something like this,’” Steve said. Thus was born Betty's Seafood Shack: A shack like the ones they loved all throughout New England where everyone can come to enjoy reasonably priced, well-prepared fried and sautéed seafood all right on the water. Steve wrote the menu, while Robin created the vibe and décor. The shack serves fried and sautéed seafood, reasonably priced and well-prepared,

with a strong nod to New England authenticity. Now in its third season, Steve says the community support has been overwhelming. “It’s been super fulfilling and successful. People seem to like it, and we see them multiple times a week. We’ve developed a family through it.” Key to the seafood shack’s success is Luis Oliba, the chef and partner who helped bring the menu and business to life. He runs the seafood concept alongside Robin.

Next up: Barbecue

Betty’s BBQ & Fried Chicken, located right next door to the seafood shack, opened in May 2025. Though the space is small, just 350 square feet, it packs in bold flavors. The shack shares an outdoor seating area with the seafood shack, and BBQ patrons are welcome to eat inside if they prefer. The barbecue concept came to life after a trip to Dallas-Fort Worth. “We got to enjoy all the barbecue joints down there and realized it was another cuisine that was kind of lacking here,” Steve said. “No one was doing it authentically in a West Texas fashion, so we spent a lot of time putting that menu together.” The two concepts go together well, offering a wide range of different cuisines. Now families can come to this laid-back place, order whatever they want from whichever spot and sit, relax, stay awhile and enjoy.

To top it all off, let’s add ice cream

Betty’s Creemee Stand, located right on the BBQ deck, just opened last week in a temporary structure.

July 31, 2025


Featuring ice cream and water ice, it was a natural final piece of the puzzle. “Back on the bay here, Amherst Ave is kind of going through a renaissance. With our restaurants, Tide Line, and Bay Buzz, there’s a lot going on,” Steve said. “But there wasn’t an ice cream place right here to match. There’s so much foot traffic here now, so it felt silly to not also have ice cream and water ice, so that’s what we did.” Patrons of either BBQ or Seafood can now spend even more time on the water by enjoying quality ice cream right after their meals, making the Betty’s block a true one-stop shop. While Steve oversees all three businesses, Keith Hurley, another operating partner, runs the BBQ and ice cream operations. Robin and Luis manage the seafood shack, making it a true team effort. The goal of all three places is to have top-quality ingredients and to always serve the best food. With the incredible views, vibes and flavors, no taste buds go unhappy when entering the Betty’s block. “We want to compete with the best restaurants in the area in terms of food, but in our environment of bathing suits and flip-flops,” Marchel said. “Same quality ingredients as the nicer spots just with our unbeatable vibes.”

So why the name ‘Betty’s’?

Betty was their beloved Portuguese water dog who passed away seven years ago. “She loved food, and one time she got into all the salmon I had just bought and ate it all,” Steve said, laughing. “The image of Betty with the salmon in her mouth became the Waterdog logo, and now she has a lobster in her mouth for the seafood shack and a rack of ribs for the BBQ. It keeps her memory alive in a new Robin Kramer and Steve Marchel way which I love.” Being AC High grads and South Keeping Waterdog alive Jersey locals, Steve and Robin feel Even though Waterdog Smoke a deep connection to the area. “We House has closed, Steve and Robin love our locals that come in as well have kept the spirit alive. “We have as our seasonal patrons. There’s not three or four breakfast sandwichmuch old Margate left, and we all es on the seafood shack menu, we reminisce and long for the days when smoke salmon the way we did at Wakids rode bikes to restaurants and terdog, and every week at the BBQ just hung out. That’s what we wanted shack we run an OG Waterdog sandto create here.” wich special,” Steve said. “Favorite The team’s dedication to quality items that people loved and miss. We is clear, from the ingredients they kind of try to keep that spirit going.” source to the welcoming environment they’ve created. What’s next for Betty’s? “Our music playlist is almost as im“We’ve fielded calls from people portant as our ingredient list,” Steve interested in opening both concepts joked. “The vibe we’ve created is very in different towns,” Steve shared. “It’s accessible, a little hippy, vintage. We out there, and we’re open to it, but want people to feel like they’re on nothing is set yet. Our hands are full right now. We think both businesses vacation when they come in.”

are scalable and could do well in the right location, but Margate is a tough spot to beat.” In addition to giving to the city of Margate daily with their great food, the couple also gives back in other ways. On Aug. 9, Betty’s BBQ & Fried Chicken will host a Rib Eating Contest, with all proceeds benefiting CASA of Atlantic, Cape May, and Camden Counties, which supports children in foster care. “We did this five years ago at Waterdog to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of AC. This year we’ve got 10 men eating three 3-pound racks each. No napkins, no forks, just six minutes of chaos,” Steve said. “The most important thing is raising money for CASA. It’ll be a fun day with live music and a great vibe, but it’s all for a good cause.”

At the end of the day, what keeps them going?

“It’s a ton of work and attention to detail. Our mantra is that everything matters. Small and large details all matter,” Steve said. “But we love what we do. We love hearing how great the food is, and we’re proud to offer that in this setting. It’s a dream come true.”

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Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, July 31

Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club Dave Hill 8 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. LandShark Bar & Grill Smokey Starr 4 – 8 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino DJ Gabor Kiss 8 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Steel Pier Tiki Bar Troy Rusnack 3 – 7 p.m. Bar None Duo 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget E Street Shuffle 7 – 11 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Austin City Nights 7 – 11 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House 3AM Tokyo 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor City The Inn on St. Louis Fabulous Silver Wings Duo 7 – 10 p.m. 446 St. Louis Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Atley Moon & The Say Somethings 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Somers Point Crab Trap Dead Reckoning Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Keith Hickman 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Glen Eric Sarkis 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Gregory’s John Wood 6 p.m. 900 Shore Rd. Josie Kelly’s B’Jam Band 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. Mexiquila Vahe Sarkissian

John Wood will perform at Gregory’s at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 31. Photo credit: John Wood Facebook 6 – 9 p.m. 101 E. Maryland Ave. The Point High Five Duo 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Tuckerton The Lizzie Rose Music Room Deadgrass 7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St.

Friday, August 1

Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club Molly Ringworm, Teen Idle, Kennedy Shaw, Great Oblivion

7:30 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Borgata B Bar No Standards Trio 9 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Hard Rock Café Dueling Pianos 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Who Brought the Dog Duo 7 p.m. The Loop 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Steel Pier Tiki Bar House Party 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Stretch & The Armstrongs 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 600 Huron Ave. Topgolf Swing Suite at Ocean Casino DJ Cowboy Kevin Bowers 6 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino Ballistic Berry

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July 31, 2025


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↘Continued from 62 9 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Wyndham Skyline Tower Magic Comedy Hour feat. Joe Holiday 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. 100 S. North Carolina Ave. Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Kicking Sunrise 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Galloway 279 Social Originaire Duo 7 – 11 p.m. 279 S. New York Rd. Margate Memories Jay Roy 10 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave. Marmora Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern Class of 84 6 p.m. 316 Roosevelt Blvd. Smithville Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Brandon Ireland 7 – 10 p.m. 1 New York Rd. Somers Point Crab Trap Lew London & Bob Mower 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Jeff X 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s Tom Brett 6 p.m. Playback Band 9 p.m. 908 Shore Rd.

The Point Lenahan Band 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Saturday, August 2

Atlantic City Anchor Rock Club Debi Tirar Mas Fiestas 10 p.m. 247 S. New York Ave. Borgata B Bar John McNutt Trio 6:30 – 10 p.m. Adam Holcombe Trio 9 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. 1 Borgata Way Borgata Beer Garden Band of Make Believe 1 – 5 p.m. 1 Borgata Way Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Indelible Groove 7 p.m. Band of Make Believe 10 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Steel Pier Tiki Bar Glenn Roberts 3 – 7 p.m. No Clue Duo 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Don’t Call Me Francis 8 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Aftershock 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Topgolf Swing Suite at Ocean Casino Lisa Bouchelle Duo 6 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Villain and Saint at Ocean Casino Big Bang Baby

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July 31, 2025


9 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House The Whitewalls 1 – 5 p.m. Goody Blue Shoes 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Egg Harbor Township EHT Vagabond The Dead Reckoning 7 – 10 p.m. 3016 Ocean Heights Ave. Galloway 279 Social The Beasts Duo 7 – 11 p.m. 279 S. New York Rd. Margate Maynards Café Mas Tequila 5:30 p.m. 9306 Amherst Ave. Memories Split Decision 7 p.m. DJ Smooth 10 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave. Smithville Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Ben Rynes 7 – 10 p.m. 1 New York Rd.

7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St. Ventnor Ventnor Coffee Open Mic 6 – 9 p.m. 108 N. Dorset Ave.

Sunday, August 3

Kicking Sunrise will perform at LaScala’s Beach House from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 1. Photo by Aiden Scott Somers Point Crab Trap Lew London & Bob Mower 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Marlene Howell 1 – 4 p.m. Head Above Water 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Glen Eric

5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Josie Kelly’s The People’s Choice 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Grooveheart 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Tuckerton The Lizzie Rose Music Room Stone Flower: Santana Tribute

Atlantic City Borgata Beer Garden The Loop 1 – 5 p.m. 1 Borgata Way Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino Dueling Pianos. 8 p.m. 500 Boardwalk Steel Pier Tiki Bar Glenn Roberts 3 – 7 p.m. Bar None 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Stealing Savanah 8:30 – 11:30 p.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Incognito 12 – 4 p.m. Chaotics 5 – 9 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave.

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↘Continued from 65 Galloway 279 Social Brandon Ireland 12 – 3 p.m. 279 S. New York Rd. Margate Memories DJ Joel Stephens 6 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave. Somers Point Crab Trap Rich Cassenti Duo 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Hailey Rose 1 – 4 p.m. Bob Mower & Glen Eric 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Fitzpatrick’s Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris 5 – 8 p.m. 650 New Rd. Gregory’s Backyard Bar May Day 6 p.m. 900 Shore Rd. Josie Kelly’s Traditional Irish Session 1 – 4 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point The Verdict 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Monday, August 4 Atlantic City LandShark Bar & Grill Smokey Starr 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Steel Pier Tiki Bar Glenn Roberts 3 – 7 p.m. Bar None 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Red 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House Adam and Min 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Trivia Night w/ DJ Bill 7 – 9 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap One Hot Mess 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s John Rodden 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway

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The Point Dave Cunningham 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Tuesday, August 5

Atlantic City LandShark Bar & Grill Scott Shelby 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk Steel Pier Tiki Bar Ludo M 3 – 7 p.m. Troy Rusnack 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House No Clue Band 6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris 7 – 9 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Medicine Man. 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Tropical Tuesday Steel Drums 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s DJ Special K

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One Hot Mess will perform at the Crab Trap from 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 4. Photo credit: One Hot Mess Band Facebook 5 – 9 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Shauny Mac 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave.

Wednesday, August 6 Atlantic City LandShark Bar & Grill Duval Street 5 – 9 p.m. 1133 Boardwalk

Steel Pier Tiki Bar Troy Rusnack 3 – 7 p.m. Bar None 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 1000 Boardwalk The Deck at Golden Nugget Hawkins Road 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 600 Huron Ave. Brigantine LaScala’s Beach House The Company

Events subject to change.

TONY MART PRESENTS LEGACY CONCERTS ON THE BEACH IN SOMERS POINT

World Class Road House Rockin' Blues of The Nighthawks Hilarious Boogie Woogie Pianist Reverend Billy C. Wirtz Rockabilly, Elvis, Conway Twitty

"On The Dark Side“, “Tender Years“ , “Wild Summer Nights“

Allman Brothers Legacy from the daughter of Butch Trucks

Now Touring Internationally

Southern Rock, Americana, Little Feat, The Band, Derek & The Dominoes, Traffic & The Allman Brothers

Patty Blee, Lew London, Dr. Bobby Fingers, Danny Eyer, The Tony Mart Allstars, Howard Isaacson Campanell Family Tribute to Bobby Campanell

Hall of Fame BMA Winner - Best Sax in 2025! Delaware Valley's Own International Blues Rock Star

Mitch Ryder

Multi-Million Selling Classic Rock Star with The Tony Mart Allstars featuring Danny Eyer. lue Dress", "Sock It ItToTo B Me" "Devil With The Blue Me" Special Guest Twisted Livin' Band

July 31, 2025

6 – 10 p.m. 1400 Ocean Ave. Margate Bocca Live Jazz by Bob & The Bocca Boys 7 – 10 p.m. 7805 Ventnor Ave. Somers Point Caroline’s by the Bay Open Mic Night w/ Blue Eagle 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. 450 Bay Ave. Crab Trap Lew London & Bob Mower 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Crabby Jack’s Dave Turner 6 – 9 p.m. 2 Broadway Josie Kelly’s Jimmy Brogan 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 908 Shore Rd. The Point Mike Tobin 6 – 10 p.m. 998 Bay Ave. Tuckerton The Lizzie Rose Music Room Rory Block 7:30 p.m. 217 E. Main St.

Our 32nd Season Tony Mart Cares gives back to musicians in need

Location changes due to inclement weather will be posted on Tony Mart Presents Facebook/ Instagram page.

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Atlantic City Headliners

Friday, August 1 Toto + Men at Work + Christopher Cross

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Ashanti

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Eddie Griffin

▶9 p.m.

The Concert Venue at Harrah’s The New York Bee Gees

Dark Star Orchestra will be at Hard Rock on Saturday, Aug. 2. Photo credit: Dark Star Orchestra Facebook

▶8:30 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Saturday, August 2 Dark Star Orchestra

The Black Keys w/ Gary Clark Jr.

▶8 p.m.

Borgata Event Center The Avett Brothers

▶7 p.m.

▶8 p.m.

▶8 p.m.

▶8 p.m.

▶8 p.m.

Friday, August 15

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena The O’Jays Borgata Event Center Lil Wayne

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Straight No Chaser The Concert Venue at Harrah’s

Train

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall Colin Jost

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Magic Rocks: Illusionist Leon Etienne

▶7:30 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock Steve Trevino

Saturday, August 16

▶8 p.m.

▶4 p.m. & 8 p.m. ▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Sunday, August 3 The Super 70’s Rock Show

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Dropkick Murphys and Bad Religion Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena In This Moment

▶4 p.m.

▶6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, August 6

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Galactic

▶7 p.m.

Kennedy Plaza Amphitheatre

Thursday, August 7 Magical Mystery Doors

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Friday, August 8

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Matt McCusker Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Jamie Lever

▶8:30 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Saturday, August 23 The Who

▶7:30 p.m.

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

David Lee Roth

On Sale This Week

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Rebelution

▶Sun. Nov. 16

▶8 p.m. ▶8 p.m.

Erykah Badu

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena Lead Singers of Classic Rock: Jason Scheff & Tommy DeCarlo

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Low Cut Connie

▶Fri. Nov. 7

Sound Waves at Hard Rock GenX Comedy The Takeover Tour

▶Sat. Jan. 24

▶8 p.m. ▶9 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars

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Saturday, August 9

The Concert Venue at Harrah’s Andrew Santino Borgata Event Center Tickets on sale Fri. Aug. 1, 10 a.m.

July 31, 2025


SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 EVENT CENTER LEARN MORE THEBORGATA.COM


When Jack Roy became Rodney Dangerfield and found some respect in AC By Bruce Klauber

It took comedian Rodney Dangerfield about 40 years to get some

respect. As Jack Roy, the first professional name taken by the man born Jacob Cohen, he worked every third-rate nightclub imaginable, and for years sold aluminum siding to finance his dream of making it big in showbiz. In a new Dangerfield biography, “Nothin’ Comes Easy,” written by celebrity biographer Michael Seth Starr, we learn how and why this sad, innovative, unique and funny man

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finally hit the big time, a big time that included some rarely-reported ties to Atlantic City. “I had to tell jokes,” he told a reporter in his later years. “I had to write them and tell them. It was like a fix, like I had the habit, you know?” That, perhaps, is the reason why, after having only middling success as Jack Roy, and after being out of the business for more than a dozen years, he decided to give show business another try at age 40, an old age, at least for a comic. The beginning of the real big time for Jack Roy came when he changed his name to Rodney Dangerfield.

There are several stories about how the Dangerfield name came about, but the most likely one traces to a character of the same name depicted on a 1941 episode of the “The Jack Benny Program,” a radio show. The name appealed to Jack Roy. It made him sound more like a schlepper, which was the image he wanted to cultivate. After a slow start as Rodney, by the early 1960s he was playing the better rooms, doing some guest spots on television, and in 1966 played the prestigious Copacabana nightclub in New York City. The real beginnings of stardom

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happened in 1967 when he was booked on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” When explaining, in later years, why he was such a hit on the Ed Sullivan program, he said, “My image did it. The image of a guy in whose life nothing goes right. That’s Rodney Dangerfield. And I do everything I can to feed that image.” What finally did it for the Dangerfield fame express was the “no respect” line, which he first used in clubs around 1969 and on “The Tonight Show” Starring Johnny Carson. He was on his way at long last, at 49 years old. Dangerfield parlayed his fame into ownership of a popular New York nightclub, which remained open from 1969 until 2020. He released his first comedy album, “I Get No Respect,” in 1970 and launched an impressive motion picture career that started with 1980 film, “Caddyshack.” Along the way, he broke new ground. He was a pioneer of cable television and his HBO specials were among the first of their kind on cable. He was the first major show business figure to use the internet as a means of promotion with the Rodney Dangerfield website. He was also proud of the fact that he nurtured and helped promote a slew of young performers including Jim Carrey, Rosanne Barr, Sam Kinison and Andrew Dice Clay. Because he never wanted to stray too far from his Dangerfield’s nightclub in New York, it would seem that Atlantic City, from the time gaming was legalized, was made

July 31, 2025

for him. However, on the weekend that Resorts International opened in May of 1978, Rodney Dangerfield could be found performing at the long-gone Sheraton Deauville on Brighton Avenue and the Boardwalk. His first known appearances at Resorts were for a full week in September of 1982. It’s been reported that he was pulling down $25,000 per performance at Resorts. There were also rumors at the time that Dangerfield bought a home in the Chelsea section of Atlantic City. In 1984 the Sands lured the comic away from Resorts with an exclusive, two-year contract. His first Sands performance was in February of 1985. He returned that summer for a week and performed frequently during the fall.

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In an effort to explain the loss of Dangerfield as a Resorts contract player, a Resorts spokesperson claimed that “Dangerfield was not strong with the high rollers. He’s very strong with the youth market.” Tom Cantone, then Sands’ vice president, disagreed. “He’s the perfect example of the use of entertainment as a casino marketing tool,” Cantone told the Press of Atlantic City at the time. “What it boils down to is Rodney brings in the casino players.” Though he was one of the biggest stars in the business, there were some career missteps through the years. One was his move from the Sands to the Golden Nugget in 1986. His stint there lasted for exactly one weekend in early October. He simply wasn’t right for the room. “He was under an extended contract with us,” Nugget owner Steve Wynn said at the time. “But it was mutually agreed that his presentation was not what our audiences had come to expect from us.” Dangerfield’s people only said, “Steve’s assessment was wrong. Rodney didn’t like the room so we got out.” As consistently hilarious as he was, Dangerfield took his work seriously. This is corroborated by several stage managers and bandsmen who worked his shows at Resorts and the Sands. A week or so prior to an engagement, the comic’s office would send out a cassette tape to the stage manager and bandleader detailing exactly how the show should go. On the tape, which can be heard in its entirety on YouTube, Dangerfield is out of character and totally serious. “Hi, this is Rodney,” is how the tape begins. “After video is shown (a career montage) for three-and-a-half minutes, there is a drum roll. On drum roll, I’m offstage. I will say the line, ‘I tell yah, I don’t get no respect at all!’ Immediately, drummer stops roll and band picks up music at letter ‘A’ while I make my entrance. Band plays until I give you a direct cutoff. The music

is always played loud, fast, and with high energy.” Indeed, comedy is a serious business. On May 25, 2004, Dangerfield’s surprisingly candid but thoroughly entertaining autobiography, “It’s Not Easy Being Me,” was published. Though in poor health, he still went on the road to promote the book. On July 6, he did an interview with Terry Gross of National Public Radio’s “Fresh Air.” During that interview, Dangerfield recalled his first-ever appearance in Atlantic City. “In fact in 1942, I once did a show with Al Jolson,” he told Gross. “I was

a kid, 21 years old, in Atlantic City. Jolson was doing a benefit show there and asked me to go on and do five minutes to warm up the audience.” And warm them up he did, as Jack Roy. On Oct. 5, 2004, just three months after he spoke to Terry Gross, Rodney Dangerfield died. He was 82 years old. He is buried at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park & Mortuary in Los Angeles. His tombstone reads: “RODNEY DANGERFIELD. There goes the neighborhood.” Even in death. No respect. 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.

July 31, 2025


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Legacy Concerts celebrate local history of legendary rockers By Carmen Marotta

T

he Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point are a standout celebration of rock 'n' roll history at the Jersey Shore.

Mitch Ryder Bill Haley & His Comets were playing at Tony Mart's in the late 1950s when DJ Alan Freed had them per-

July 31, 2025

form in what are often cited as the first true rock 'n' roll shows. Conway Twitty and Levon Helm came together playing rockabilly. In 1965, Conway played his final rock 'n' roll shows at Tony Mart's before Bob Dylan brought Levon and the Hawks to Newport and Woodstock. That left Tony Mart needing a replacement — and he booked Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels to close out the season. During that golden era, Tony Mart himself said the biggest week in gross sales came when Duane Eddy and the Rebels performed their iconic hit “Rebel Rouser.” Years later, a young rocker named John Cafferty was inspired by Eddy’s guitar sound — music that filled the Jersey Shore, including Tony Mart’s in John Cafferty 1963. In 1982, Marty Davidson, director Vance introduced him to John Cafof the classic film “The Lords of Flatferty, who would go on to write one bush,” asked Kenny Vance to find an of the most iconic cult soundtracks of artist with that “Jersey Shore sound.” all time — “Eddie and the Cruisers.”

It’s no accident that Cafferty remains one of the most dynamic rockers of our time, with a sound often compared to Springsteen’s. It’s also no coincidence that Springsteen encouraged him to write and record his latest album, “Sound of Waves,” which he’ll perform Friday, Aug. 1. Alongside his classics — “On the Dark Side,” “Tender Years” and “Wild Summer Nights” — Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band will also perform new tracks like “Day in the Sun” and “Loveland” during a twohour concert within shouting distance of the legendary Tony Marts. That spirit will continue Friday, Sept. 12, when Mitch Ryder headlines the “#1 in the Nation Celebration” concert with the Tony Mart Allstars at 7 p.m. Join us to celebrate the legacy of Jersey Shore rock. Let the good times roll! For more information, please visit tonymart.com

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Summer French wine from Sancerre and Muscadet quite literally a stop, not a station! Sancerre is the epitome of pastoral beauty as a small medieval hilltop town overlooking the Loire River with a population of about 1,300 people. Of all the places we have visited in France, Sancerre had the fewest English-speaking visitors. It appears that this is much more of a getaway destination for the French and other Europeans. That said, we had no major issues communicating, and people could not have been more friendly and welcoming. Sancerre Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) is located in Centre-Val de Loire (the Central Loire Valley). This region is comprised of the area immediately surrounding the town, plus 14 nearby villages. It is the terroir, specifically the soil, of this region that makes the Sauvignon Blanc of Sancerre so outstanding. The calcareous (calcium carbonate

Drink Up! By David Setley

L

ast week, I discussed wines from the Touraine-Amboise, Chinon and Vouvray appellations of the mid-Loire Valley wine region, also known as the “Garden of France.” This week, I’d like to introduce you to the Sancerre, Pouilly-Fume and Muscadet wine regions of the Loire Valley. Sancerre is a region that has become so famous that the wine produced there is better known by the name of the region rather than the grape varietal. Customers looking for a Sancerre may not realize they are actually requesting a Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon Blanc accounts for approximately 81% of all the grapes grown there. As famous as the wines are, however, this region is a bit off the beaten path. When my wife and I visited in May, we were surprised when the train doors opened onto grass. The Tracey-Sancerre stop is

and chalk) and silicious (silica limestone) soils are what give the region’s wines such wonderful minerality. The resulting wine is a perfect balance of fruit and minerality with a crisp, clean, fresh taste. Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc wines are dry and typically extremely low in sugar. Many wine enthusiasts consider Sancerre the world’s most perfect demonstration of Sauvignon Blanc wine, but I leave that for you to decide.

The Mellot family business

The name we saw more than any other when we visited Sancerre was “Mellot.” The Mellot family has been making wine in Sancerre for over 500 years. As young men, brothers Alphonse and Joseph Mellot worked together at Domaine La Moussiere Alphonse Mellot Wines. In 1969, Joseph broke off and established Domaine Joseph Mellot. Both have been very successful and have continued the family’s half-millennium tradition of outstanding winemaking. Try the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre La

Moussiere Sauvignon Blanc to experience exactly what makes Sancerre famous. You can also try the Domaine Henri Bourgeois Sancerre Blanc or the Karine Lauverjat — Sancerre. While Sauvignon Blanc is 81% of the grapes produced in Sancerre, the other 19% is Pinot Noir. Though not as famous as the Pinot Noir from Burgundy, the wines from Sancerre are gaining in awards and popularity every year. The Alphonse Mellot Côtes de Charité Pinot Noir will show you why. This has been one of my personal favorite Pinot Noirs for years. Before we leave the Centre-Val de Loire, there are several other appellations worth mentioning. Menetou-Salon is located very near Sancerre and also produces Sauvignon Blanc. What makes it unique from its larger, more famous sister is, you guessed it, terroir! The soil here is called Kimmeridgian and is similar to that found in Burgundy. This soil was deposited here after the last Jurassic

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Postcards from the Past

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Good Food! Good Service! Good Prices!

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↘Continued from 76 period. The wine is equally dry, crisp and fruity but with a touch of spice and mint. Try the Domaine Durand Menetou-Salon Blanc.

The Pouilly-Fumé and smoky wine

Also near Sancerre is Pouilly-Fumé, where Sauvignon Blanc is again the primary output, but with a different terroir once more. The soil is diverse with many of the types already discussed, but with a dominant vein of Silex. While walking through a vineyard in this region, a tour guide suggested we click two pieces of Silex rock together, which resulted in a smell similar to gunpowder. In the U.S., we call this rock flint. It adds slightly smoky notes to the white wines produced there. We met with Pauline Pabiot at Domaine Roger Pabiot in Pouilly-Fumé during this tour. Pabiot is the fifth generation to be the president and head winemaker of the family estate. Try the Roger Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé Coteaux des Girarmes to better understand why Pouilly-Fumé wines are becoming nearly as famous as Sancerre. Pabiot also offered us a taste of a wine that she spent four years studying in Switzerland after she graduated from university in Burgundy. Chasselas is an ancient, ancestral white grape grown in Pouilly-sur-Loire, an appellation adjacent to Pouilly-Fumé. Pabiot wanted to bring this grape back in honor of her family’s multigenerational history of winemaking. The Roger Pabiot et Fils Pouilly-surLoire L'Ancestral is a white wine with a unique flavor. It has slightly more body than Sauvignon Blanc and an interesting fruitiness that reminds me of dried apricot. I had never heard

of the grape before our trip, and was thrilled to be able to bring it into Passion Vines for you to try.

The Muscadet region

On the opposite end of the Loire Valley, near where the river empties into the Atlantic Ocean and near the city of Nantes, is the Muscadet AOC wine region and its primary appellation, Muscadet Sevre-etMaine. The wine produced there is known as Muscadet, but is made from a grape with an unusual name: Melon de Bourgogne. We visited a winery and were impressed by the meticulous process used to produce this wonderful wine. Upon crushing, the juice rests in holding vats for 48 hours. The temperature-controlled alcoholic fermentation then lasts 3-4 weeks. Then the wine is pumped into underground holding tanks for up to 14 months on the lees (sur lees). Lees are the dead yeast that fall to the bottom of the vat. Rather than pumping out the lees, the wine remains in contact throughout aging to enhance the flavor. Try the Domaine De La Bregeonnette Muscadet. It is great with all seafood, but is the ultimate “oyster wine.” I hope you enjoyed our two-week dive into the Loire Valley. I absolutely love the wines of this region and hope that these articles have inspired you to try them as well. As always, contact me with any questions at dsetley@passionvines.com or stop into the store. Until next time, “Santé” 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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Mental Health Reset: Small shifts that can make a big difference

By Robin Stoloff Health Reporter

I

Events Here are some of the fun events happening in the Wildwoods:

JULY 30 Wildwoods Baby Parade

TUESDAY AND THURSDAY NIGHTS TILL AUG. 21 Doo Wop Back to the ’50s Neon Night Tours

AUG. 1–3 Battle at the Beach Mixed Martial Arts Tournament AUG. 2 Sevens Down the Shore Beach Rugby

FRIDAY NIGHTS JUNE 27–AUG. 29 Friday Night Fireworks

AUG. 4 Wildwood Navy Seal Challenge

SATURDAY MORNINGS TILL AUG. 30 Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market

AUG. 8–10 MudHen Beach Baseball Tournament

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEK

Wildwood Crest 5K Beach Run

f your brain feels foggy, your patience is running thin, or you’re carrying stress like bricks in a backpack, you’re not alone. Mental health issues are common, yet they are not always loud or obvious. They can creep in slowly, through irritability, a lack of motivation, sleep trouble, or just a general feeling that everything feels harder than it used to be. But here’s the hopeful part: you don’t need to change your entire life to feel better. Small, steady shifts can have a powerful impact. According to data from the Nation-

al Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about one in five adults experience a mental illness annually. That means approximately 23% of U.S. adults, or more than 58 million people, are living with a mental health condition in any given year. Mental health conditions also impact about one in six adolescents aged 13 to 18, or approximately 17% each year. Mental health is influenced by everything from sleep and diet, to activity and social interactions. In fact, many researchers have found that simple habits play a key role in mental well-being. One large-scale review in The Lancet Psychiatry found that regular physical activity can help prevent symptoms of depression. Another study published in Nature Mental Health showed that sleep quality, social connection and regular exercise ranked among the most important lifestyle factors linked to emotional resilience.

Sundays at Fox Park 7:30 p.m. | June 29–Aug. 24

Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash AUG. 10 North Wildwood Flea Market AUG. 15–17 MudHen Beach Baseball Tournament

Mondays at Sunset Lake 7:30 p.m. | June 30–Aug. 18 Tuesdays at Crest Arts Pavilion 7 p.m. | July 1–Aug. 19

AUG. 22–24 Sports Cards, Toys, Comics & Collectibles Show

Wednesdays at Centennial Park 7 p.m. | July 2–Aug. 20

AUG. 24–28 Wildwoods August Restaurant Week

Thursdays at Byrne Plaza 7:30 p.m. | June 19–Aug. 28 Saturdays at Centennial Park 7 p.m. | June 28–Sept. 20

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Sleep: your brain’s nightly reset Let’s start with sleep. It’s the unsung hero of mental health. Think of it as a nightly reset button for your brain. Without enough of it, emotional regulation, focus and stress tolerance can plummet. You don’t need a fancy nighttime ritual to get better sleep. Start small; go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Dim the lights an hour before bed and try putting away screens that emit blue light, which can interfere with your body’s natural sleep signals. Even if you can’t fall asleep right away, keeping that routine helps train your brain to recognize when it’s time to wind down. Move more, feel better You don’t have to become a runner or lift heavy weights to reap the mental health benefits of physical activity. Simply getting your body moving most days of the week – whether walking the dog, following a yoga video, or dancing in your living room – can make a noticeable difference. It gives you a sense of accomplishment, which is especially helpful on those days when you are just not feeling motivated. Physical activity reduces stress hormones such as cortisol, and releases endorphins – the body’s natural mood boosters. I have never finished a workout and thought, “I wish I didn’t do that.” I am always happier, more energized and thankful that I did something for my body and mind. Feed your mood with better food Nutrition plays a role, too. Think of food as fuel – not just for your body, but also for your brain. Researchers have found that diets high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins are associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety. On the flip side, diets high in processed foods, refined sugar and saturated fats can increase the risk of mood disorders. Again, this doesn’t have to mean a major overhaul. Try adding a serving of vegetables to your lunch, swap soda for sparkling water, or prepare a simple, home-cooked meal a few times a week. These changes may seem small, but over time they add up to better energy and mental clarity. Connect with people, even in small ways Connection with others plays a huge role in our mental health. We are social creatures, and spending time with others, even in brief interactions, has been shown to boost feelings of well-being. Loneliness has become increasingly common, especially with more people working remotely or managing busy lives. Connection doesn’t

July 31, 2025

have to mean hosting a dinner party or joining a big group. Small moments count. Say hello to a neighbor, call a friend while you’re doing chores, or send a quick check-in text. You might be surprised how those little interactions boost your mood. Ove r wh e l m e d? Tr y th e one-drawer rule Feeling overwhelmed? That’s where the “one-drawer rule” comes in. It’s a simple concept: When life feels like it is too much, start with one small thing. Clean one drawer, reply to one email, or prepare one healthy meal. Tiny victories can help you build momentum, and completing even a small task can give you a sense of control and accomplishment. It’s not about doing everything; it’s about doing something. Quiet your mind and seek help when needed Another helpful practice? Take a break from your own brain. We can all use this one. Mindfulness exercises, journaling, or simply sitting quietly for five minutes can help calm racing thoughts. Apps and online resources can guide you through breathing exercises or short meditations. Some people find relief in creative activities such as drawing, knitting, or gardening – anything that lets their mind rest and reset. When you need support, don’t hesitate to ask for help, whether that’s reaching out to a friend, talking to your doctor, or connecting with a mental health professional. Getting help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Therapy and counseling are not just for a crisis; they can also be valuable tools for learning new coping skills and gaining perspective. Build a foundation for feeling good Mental health issues affect people across all age groups, backgrounds and walks of life. Understanding the scope of the issue is an important step toward reducing stigma and encouraging more people to seek help when they need it. It is not just the absence of illness; it’s about feeling grounded, present and able to enjoy life’s moments, big and small. By making a few intentional choices, prioritizing sleep, moving more, eating well, connecting with others and giving yourself space to breathe, you create a foundation for emotional well-being that supports everything else in your life. If you’re feeling out of sorts, keep in mind that you don’t need to fix everything all at once. Begin with one small change, then add another. Gradually, you’ll gain clarity, confidence and a renewed sense of self. Taking care of your mental health isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity, and it starts with you.

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Tax-exempt gifting to family By Eric Reich

G

ifting is one of those topics that comes up often with clients. The decision to give is one thing, but the way that you should give to family can be more complicated. There are three ways to gift on a tax-exempt basis.

1. Annual exclusion gifts

For 2025, you can give $19,000 (or $38,000 if you are married and split the gift) to anyone you want. Yes, anyone. These gifts are not taxable to you or the recipient. You can make these gifts every year, and this number is indexed for inflation each year.

2. Combine gifts with your spouse

Now with the passage of the Big Beautiful Tax Bill, your lifetime limit for gifts, not including the $19,000/$38,000 each year, is cur-

82

rently $15 million per donor. If you combine this with your spouse, you can give a combined $30 million either during your lifetime or upon your death. If your spouse passes, then their unused limit can be combined with yours, but you must file an estate tax return (Form 706) in order to do it. More specifically, Page 4 of the 706, Section C titled “DSUE Amount Portable to the Surviving Spouse.” DSUE stands for Deceased Spouse’s Unused Exemption. Gifts that skip a generation, known as Generation Skipping Gifts (GSTs), are not portable, so if they are not used before your death, they are lost.

3. Unlimited gifts for payments of medical expenses or tuition

Like annual exclusion gifts, these gifts can be made to anyone. Also, like annual exclusion gifts, they do not reduce your total lifetime gift limits. They are always tax-free, regardless of whether or not you have already used up all of your gift tax exclusion. Best of all, there are no limits on the amount you can give for these situations. Another issue is gifting during your lifetime or via an inheritance. If

you have already used up your lifetime exclusion and you want to continue to make gifts above the current $19,000/$38,000, and you are subject to estate taxes, then the math suggests you are better off making taxable gifts during your lifetime. For example, a $1 million gift to an heir would incur a 40% tax to you. Therefore, it would cost $1.4 million to make a $1 million gift. Via inheritance, the same $1.4 million gift at a tax of 40% would leave your heir with only $840,000, since $560,000 goes to the IRS instead of $400,000 via a lifetime gift. It's important to note that if you were to pass within three years of making that gift, then the gift tax paid would be added back to the estate, and the benefit of the lifetime gift would be nullified. Lastly, gifts to charities are best done via a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) if possible. You just need to be age 70 ½ or older in order to do it. This is done via a direct transfer from your IRA to the charity only. Why might you want to make gifts? Well, for starters, it reduces your estate. The purposes of the gifts could include business interests, life

insurance, paying the tax on a Roth IRA conversion, charitable trusts and paying off mortgages. Many people would rather see the benefits of a gift made today while they are still alive than make it upon their death when they can’t see all the good it did for their heirs at a time when they likely need it the most. 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.

July 31, 2025


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Why women should embrace muscle building

Empowering Women By Rachel King

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he phrase "muscle weighs more than fat" has been a source of confusion and controversy in the fitness world for years. But what does this actually mean? And why should women, in particular, pay attention to it? Understanding the phrase First, let's clarify the saying. A pound of muscle and a pound of fat weigh the same — one pound. However, the key difference lies in their density. Muscle is denser and takes up less space than fat. This means that even if your weight on the scale remains the same or even increases, your body composition can be improving as you gain muscle and lose fat. In essence, you can look leaner and more toned without seeing a drastic drop in weight. The benefits of building muscle Building muscle offers a myriad

of benefits, especially for women. It boosts your metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. It also strengthens bones, which is crucial in preventing osteoporosis as you age. Additionally, muscle helps improve posture, balance and overall physical performance. Debunking the ‘bulking up’ myth One of the most persistent myths is that lifting weights will make women bulky. The truth is, women have lower levels of testosterone compared to men, which makes it much harder to gain significant muscle mass. Achieving a "bulky" physique requires a specific type of training, diet and, often, supplementation, which is far beyond what most women engage in during regular strength training. Instead, what you’re likely to experience from lifting weights is a leaner, more defined physique. Strength training helps to sculpt the body, creating the toned look that many women desire. It enhances curves and boosts confidence, all while providing numerous health benefits. Why you shouldn't fear the scale Another common mistake is becoming overly fixated on the number on the scale. When you begin strength training and building muscle, you might

not see the scale move as much as you expect, or it might even go up slightly. This can be discouraging, but it’s important to remember that the scale doesn’t tell the full story. Muscle weighs more per unit volume than fat, so as you lose fat and gain muscle, your weight might not change much. Instead of relying solely on the scale, track your progress through other means. Take body measurements, notice how your clothes fit or even keep a photo journal of your progress. These methods will give you a more accurate picture of your transformation and help keep you motivated. Best ways to build muscle To effectively build muscle, focus on a combination of strength training, proper nutrition and adequate rest. Aim for resistance training exercises that target all major muscle groups, such as squats, deadlifts, push-ups and rows. Protein plays a critical role in muscle repair and growth, so ensure your diet includes enough of it. Incorporate lean proteins like chicken, fish, tofu and legumes into your meals. And don’t forget the importance of rest — muscles need time to recover and grow, so make sure you’re getting enough sleep and allowing your body to rest

between workouts. The phrase "muscle weighs more than fat" isn’t something to fear — it’s something to understand and embrace. Building muscle will not only help you achieve a toned, healthy body but also provide numerous health benefits. Don’t let misconceptions or the number on the scale deter you from your fitness goals. Focus on how you feel, how your clothes fit and the strength you’re gaining. After all, your body’s transformation is about more than just a number; it’s about becoming the healthiest, strongest version of yourself. Rachel King is the owner of Lift & Glitz Training Studio in Northfield, NJ. With 13 years of experience in the fitness industry, Rachel holds certifications in Personal & Group Fitness through ISSA and is a Zumba Fitness Instructor. A proud single mother of two, Rachel balances her professional and personal life with grace and determination. She earned her BA in Communications from Stockton University and resides in Northfield.

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How much does breed determine a dog’s temperament and behavior? By Heidi Clayton

W

hen I am assessing any dog or puppy that has, let’s say, an undesirable characteristic, such as aggression, the first thing I consider is the dog's overall temperament. In my opinion, a dog's temperament is the single most important factor in what makes a dog a good or bad one. Temperament in a dog is their innate personality — who they are and what makes them unique. Some believe that a dog’s temperament is purely biological, based on genetics and not on learned behavior, while others feel that a puppy’s life experiences shape their temperaments. What is clear is that a puppy's predisposed temperament does have

strong genetic components based on their breed. However, temperament is also influenced by environmental factors that start shaping your puppy while they are still in the womb. How healthy a mom is during her pregnancy and, equally important, how she is maintained during nursing of the puppies from birth will play a huge factor in temperament. For example, Amish puppy mill dogs have become genetically predisposed to fear and anxiety based on their parents living such sheltered lives. In the world of purebred dogs, breed type and temperament are based on what a particular breed was meant to do. For example, Scottish Terriers were bred to be independent vermin killers. They needed to be fearless when ridding a farm of vermin and “going to ground,” burrowing into holes to catch rats, groundhogs and whatever else the farmers didn’t want around. While most Scotties I know aren’t living on farms anymore, they do retain that spicy temperament that makes a Scottie a Scottie; They openly have a bit of an attitude when asked for

compliance with rules. On the flip side, golden retrievers were bred to listen to commands and retrieve things for their humans all day. They possess an innate work ethic that is mixed with just the right amount of joy. They would never dream of insulting their owners like a Scottie by simply walking away from them with zero guilt for not listening. Most toy breeds were literally bred to sit on your lap and be pleasant companions. They may be a tad more difficult to train as they were not designed to have a work ethic like the German

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Shepherd or the Border Collie. All of these breeds, when produced by a reputable breeder, have their own unique temperaments that make them what they are. In my bull terrier breeding program, I also assess the temperament of the people who want one of the puppies. Are they the type of person who can handle the bull terrier intensity? I know what the temperament of each and every one of my puppies is based on generations of breeding. I am very hesitant about my puppies going to busy homes where the owners won't have the time to attend training classes because they will not survive owning a bull terrier puppy without those classes. For mixed breeds, it may be a bit harder to nail down what well the dog's temperament is springing from. It is particularly difficult with the doodle mixes to determine which side the genetic coin will land when mixing a golden retriever, known for their social nature, with a poodle, who should have an air of distinction about them, making them appear aloof to strangers. I also know dozens of pit bull mixes who have absolutely lovely temperaments with people and would never dare bite a human. However, they hate other dogs down to their souls. Remember, sadly, pit bulls were originally bred to fight. While hopefully that is happening less in today's society, depending on the dog’s bloodlines, some may retain that innate prey drive that is simply who they are. When looking for a puppy, either purebred or mixed, consider temperament first, particularly if you have children. A herding dog or herding mix may never lose that desire to keep the children in one place in the household. I will talk next time about what I consider a poor temperament and how to set realistic training goals in response to that. If you have any questions, please email me at heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining.net. Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https:// fouronthefloordogtraining.net

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SUDOKU Solution on page 94

ACROSS 1. Mythical air spirit 6. Water glider 9. Opposite of eve 13. Artfully shyly 14. X 15. Move a plant 16. Saintly glows 17. Industrious insect 18. Inundated 19. *"An American Tragedy" author Theodore ____ 21. *Ignatius J. Reilly, "A Confederacy of Dunces" protagonist 23. Neither's partner 24. Flipside of pros 25. What hernias do 28. Snowman's corn cob 30. 1970s dancing venues 35. Home to China 37. Biceps exercise 39. W.E.B Du Bois's org. 40. Clays or mucks 41. Quetzalcoatl worshiper 43. Viracocha worshipper 44. Muse of love poetry 46. The Hippocratic one 47. High in decibels 48. Orthopedic device 50. Egyptian goddess of fertility 52. Before, before 53. Kitten's plaything 55. Between Cancer and Virgo 57. *Beatrice Belden's nickname 60. *American Library Association's medal for children's literature 64. C in CSI 65. To boot 67. #61 Down plus E 68. Altar's location, pl. 69. Fled 70. Indian cuisine dip 71. Give an impression 72. Mining product 73. See-through

DOWN 1. Common tropical marine fish 2. Part of BYO 3. Orpheus' instrument 4. *Patricia MacLachlan's "Sarah, ____ and Tall" 5. Medicinal herb 6. ____ anise, chai tea spice 7. *____ Kesey's "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" 8. Foreword 9. Whimper 10. Milky-white gem 11. Like certain people's glasses 12. Greatest possible 15. Ex grape 20. *"Fear of Flying" author ____ Jong 22. Finish line, e.g. 24. Not doubting 25. *Percival Everett's reimagining of "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" 26. Steal a throne 27. Type of wave 29. *"The Godfather" author Mario ____ 31. Go yachting 32. Birch bark vessel 33. Come to pass 34. *Dashiell Hammett's hardboiled detective Sam ____ 36. ____ Spumante 38. Classic game show "____ Make a Deal" 42. Argentina's western neighbor 45. December birthstone, pl. 49. "Mai" follower 51. Paris' underground tourist attraction 54. Yesteryear style 56. West African religious practice 57. Genealogical plant 58. Winter window design 59. Allah's cleric 60. Opposite of all 61. Huron's neighbor 62. Baptism or shiva, e.g. 63. 2025, e.g. 64. "The Young and the Restless" network, acr. 66. Boat propeller See Solution on Page 94

July 31, 2025

91


ATLANTIC CAPE WINDOWS

Preparing a road map for your loved ones Part 3 of a series

By Andrew Hoffman

I

n my last article, I pointed out how important it is to create a clear plan for your loved ones. We went into how a will creates peace of mind, reducing the risk of disputes among beneficiaries. Moving on to the next mile marker on this road map we just talked about financial institutions and individual’s and that leads us to life insurance. You should have your life insurance polices all gathered in one place and you should check on them to make sure they are currently in force and what type of insurance policy they are. There are many types of life insurance but the two most common is whole life and term life. Whole life offers lifelong coverage as long as you continue to pay the premiums and there is cash value which grows over time which you can borrow against if you need to. The premiums for this insurance are fixed meaning they never go up or down so that offers predictability but the premiums for whole life tend to be higher and more expensive than term life insurance.

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Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period (hence the verbiage “term”) usually 10, 20, or 30 years. Term insurance is generally more affordable than whole life because of its lower premiums, but it has no cash value. You should always make sure the beneficiaries to your life insurance are current. If you have divorced and left your spouse as the beneficiary to the policy, they are legally entitled to the proceeds even though your union is null and void. You also want to make sure that the beneficiary is currently alive and or you can designate contingent beneficiaries or also assign a portion or percentage of the life insurance to multiple beneficiaries. Another thing you should double check is to see if you employer provides group life insurance because some companies self-insure. Also, some social or professional organizations offer insurance to their members. You should always check to see if there is a policy on you and who is the beneficiary because every year in the United States millions of dollars of life insurance go unclaimed.

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Choosing your location where to live

tools that can shed light on the crime rates of other communities.

Transportation

If you move somewhere that makes your commute longer than an hour, you will likely get pretty tired of the location fairly quickly. It may be better to choose a place with public transportation or highway access nearby.

Real Estate Matters By Elisa Jo Eagan

W

hile the number of bedrooms and the size of the backyard are both important when searching for a home, location should not be overlooked. In fact, it is often said that in buying real estate and in choosing your place to call home, the most important factors are location, location and location. Here are a few things to keep in mind when searching for the perfect location and property for you.

Neighborhood

Whether it is peace and quiet surrounded by acres of land that you want, being closer to the ocean, beach and the water that you seek, or the culture, choices and public transportation of urban life that meet your needs, scoping out what

Geography

neighborhood will make you happy in the long run is crucial. Unfortunately, neighbors are non-negotiable, unless you purchase your own private island.

Property taxes

Property taxes play a large role in a monthly budget. While you have little control over the mandated costs, it is best to take a look at the tax history before you choose a home.

School district

Certainly if you are looking for a location for your own children, schools would most likely be your top

priority. If you do not have schoolaged children, a school district may not seem like an important factor. Even so a highly rated school district can drastically impact the value of your home, for better or for worse depending on the desirability of the district.

Crime rates

The safety of your neighborhood impacts everything from your happiness and security, to your home’s resale value. If you are considering moving out of town or to another state, there are numerous online

Your home's physical location certainly will have a huge impact on how you live. Think about factors like the climate, landscape, and environmental changes that will impact you down the line. Only you can decide the best location for you! It may take quite a bit of research, time and discernment. Choosing a location is truly a leap of faith, and here in our Shore Local area, an awesome one! For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan "The Real Estate Godmother" (609)703-0432 and Remember..."There's No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!"

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unfold in your community and your surroundings, your closest relationships may be impacted too. Align with those committed to you and your vision. Taurus: Rebirth and transformation are ongoing in your career and personal resources. Remember, slow and steady wins the race! Maintain balance and healthy habits to avoid burnout. Gemini: You have just begun to perceive yourself differently. A new self-image is connected to recognizing what truly lights you up. Release sources of angst and displeasure. Cancer: An awakening is happening, and you are learning more about yourself than ever before. What or who in your private life is impeding this new journey? Leo: Your learning experience in relationships is ongoing. Every relationship, no matter the duration, is a mirror for you. Consider what you’re learning about how you communicate. Virgo: Dramatic changes in your daily life are directly connected to your work and vice versa. The renovation of your life can be smoother by letting go of some of your stuff. Libra: Your connection to the muse is morphing into something else entirely. It’s an exciting adventure that requires an open mind. You will be shown the depth of your personal power. Scorpio: Whether you truly feel at home in your dwelling and in your family is under consideration. Be mindful of looping thought patterns that create stagnancy rather than momentum. Sagittarius: A complete overhaul of your experience with your

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The Cosmic Connection with Ursula Duffy

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strology, by definition, is the study of time and light. It is an art that has been utilized by humanity for millennia to provide a better understanding of how the cosmos affects life on Earth. One’s personal horoscope, also known as a birth chart or natal chart, is a snapshot of the sun, moon, planets and more at the moment of one’s birth (date, time and location). This snapshot holds many keys and secrets to one’s personality and can be considered a map, guidebook and lesson plan for life! Everything in the cosmos continues to move beyond the moment of your birth and influences your life in various and cyclical ways, according to the rhythm of the sun, moon, planets, stars, seasons and even at specific ages. The weekly horoscopes provided here in Shore Local Newsmagazine are written based on your rising sign. These horoscopes are intended to provide the cosmic connection to your lived experience based on these rhythms. So much is written in the stars! It is my intention that these entries will assist you in deciphering what is encoded within you.

Rising sign horoscopes for July 31 – Aug. 6

♈ Aries: As changes continue to

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immediate surroundings is underway. With this also comes a change in plans and a different community. Capricorn: The direct connection between your health, well-being and confidence is being revealed to you. It’s time to consider if a change in work could add value. Aquarius: As you have embarked on the journey of becoming your authentic self, you will learn that inspiration is a supportive companion. Outdated beliefs are excess baggage. Pisces: Boundaries are your primary task at hand. With your extremely absorptive constitution, keep yourself protected from external influences that siphon your energy.

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Weekly astrology summary:

August kicks off with a harmonious connection between several powerhouse planets, which will be present until the middle of the month. The element of air is highlighted, gifting us the ability to transform our perspective, test creatively innovative ideas, and sever ties with what’s preventing balance and fairness. The harmony is accompanied by some conflicting and challenging energies that may stir up quarrels, tempers, power dynamics and tension in relationships. Action, problem-solving and ingenuity are encouraged. Being truthful about sources of disillusionment will also be helpful. 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.

Solutions to page 91 puzzles. Check yourself!

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July 31, 2025


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