SHORE LOCAL | Oceancity | June 25, 2026 by Mike Kurov

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE

EHT Woman Crowned Miss NJ

Fourth of July Festivities

Little Caesars Founders to Own Entire Ocean Casino

Getting Closer to a Plan for Former Wonderland

A celebration 250 years in the making

Letter from the editor

There are certain moments in history that bring generations together. America's Bicentennial in 1976 was one of those moments. I remember it well.

As an 8-year-old student, I was chosen to play the Statue of Liberty in my school play. It sounded like an important role, and the best part was I didn't have any lines to memorize. Holding that torch high above my head was not easy though. It felt like forever and by the end of the performance, my arm was aching. Still, I was proud to be part of something special.

The excitement surrounding America's 200th birthday was impossible to miss. The u.S. Mint released special Bicentennial quarters. My friends and I collected them as treasured keepsakes. Stores were filled with red, white and blue merchandise. "Spirit of '76" shirts, coffee mugs, posters and patriotic decorations seemed to be everywhere.

There were neighborhood block parties, hometown parades, historical pageants, reenactments and of course, school performances. Fam -

ilies proudly displayed their flags. Children dressed as Betsy Ross, George Washington and other figures from our nation's founding. now, 50 years later, I can feel that same excitement building as our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday. While driving around, I see more and more American flags waving proudly from porches, businesses and front yards. Plans are set for festivals, parades, fireworks displays and other commemorative events.

Cover photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly.

During the Bicentennial in 1976, America was emerging from a difficult period marked by the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Many people felt discouraged and divided. Yet the Bicentennial sparked something remarkable. It reminded us of our shared history and common values. For a moment, patriotism, civic pride and optimism took center stage.

Life at The Southern NJ Shore

Publisher– Bob Fertsch (609) 334-1691 shorelocalads@gmail.com

Executive Editor - Cindy Christy Fertsch (609) 705-5323 shorelocalcindy@gmail.com

Publisher Assistant - Julia Train

Copy Editors - James FitzPatrick, Holly Fertsch, Julia Train

Advertising Sales - Meg Perry (609)425-5407 shorelocalmeg@gmail.com

Web Designer - Holly Martin

Contributors – Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Chuck Darrow, Alex Corson, Delaney Crawford, Ursula Duffy, Robin Stoloff, Alanna Stoloff, Tynan Hand, Lisa Segelman, Bruce Klauber

Cover photo of Miss New Jersey Kylie Wright by Ste en Klenk

Just like then, today America faces its share of challenges. There are foreign conflicts, inflation concerns and major political divisions. Yet milestones such as this remind us that we are all part of a larger story — one that began two and a half centuries ago.

For this moment in time, we come together, united as Americans. Whether it's attending a parade, gathering with family, visiting a historic site or simply watching fireworks light up the summer sky, each of us will remember this occasion.

This edition marks the first of two special Shore Local issues dedicated to America's 250th birthday. Throughout these pages, you'll find stories, events and local perspectives highlighting this extraordinary milestone.

We know this year is especially meaningful so make your plans early. Gather your family and friends to celebrate and take a moment to appreciate being part of the u nited States Semiquincentennial.

Peace & Love, Cindy

EHT’s Kylie Wright crowned Miss New Jersey 2026

An

By Steffen Klenk

It was a spectacular week of pageantry in Ocean City as Miss n ew Jersey made its return to the Music Pier for the first time

since 2018. The island community welcomed more than a dozen local titleholders from across the state for a full week of pageant activities. Parents and supporters filled the auditorium on Saturday night for the

final evening of competition. Kylie Gene Wright of egg Harbor Township was awarded the title of Miss new Jersey. Wright, who served as Miss Cumberland County, has experience in karate and wrestling. A standout athlete at egg Harbor Township High School, she placed sixth overall in the n ew Jersey State Wrestling Championship in 2024 and ↘

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They did amazing work on my home. Lenny Petrelli worked with me since February on getting this project done and he was amazing to deal with, always got back to me and kept me in the loop to what was happening next. I had a vision and he made it happen. Paul & Matt Petrille did an amazing job on my windows!! They went over and beyond to help me with the ﬁnal touches. A Five Star Business.”

Donna Salamone, Ventnor Heights

competed on the wrestling team at ursinus College. Today, she is pursuing a business degree from Atlantic Cape Community College and teaches karate in her hometown.

thousands of dollars through various demonstrations and seminars. Wright aims to use her platform as Miss new Jersey to empower women with hands-on techniques to lead with confidence.

Wright also serves as east Coast Chapter President of T.A.K. e . Defense, a nationwide initiative that provides vital self-defense skills for women. As part of her Community Service Initiative, she has helped raise

In her first official statement as Miss new Jersey, Wright thanked her family, friends, coaches, and mentors for providing valuable life lessons and words of encouragement. “As a lifelong martial artist, karate has

shaped who I am today. It has taught me discipline, resilience, and confidence to keep getting back up when life knocks me down.

“The lessons I learned on the mat have prepared me for this opportunity, and I am proud to carry these values with me as Miss n ew Jersey.”

Wright is the fourth eHT resident to be crowned Miss n ew Jersey. The township was last represented by Kaitlyn Schoeffel in 2017. As Miss n ew Jersey, Wright will soon take

her talents to the national stage as part of Miss America, which will be held later this year in West Palm Beach, Fla. “I’m so excited, honored, and proud to be representing Miss n ew Jersey on the Miss America stage and throughout this upcoming year," Wright said.

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.

Photos by Steffen Klenk

Tiny clinging jellyfish can pack a painful sting in New Jersey back bays

By Cindy Christy Fertsch

Residents and visitors enjoying n ew Jersey’s waterways this summer are being urged to use caution after reports of clinging jellyfish surfaced in locations stretching from Monmouth County to Cape May.

Despite the sightings, marine experts stress that ocean beachgoers along the Atlantic coastline have little reason for concern. Clinging jellyfish are not found in the ocean surf. Instead, the invasive species inhabits protected waterways such as estuaries, back bays and tidal rivers.

According to marine biologist Paul Bologna, the tiny creatures are commonly found attached to underwater vegetation in shallow water. People wading through seagrass beds may unknowingly brush against them and receive a sting.

The jellyfish are difficult to detect because they are nearly transparent and measure only about one-quarter inch in diameter. Their small size and camouflage make encounters hard

to avoid in areas where they are established.

What makes clinging jellyfish particularly concerning is the severity of their sting. u nlike the more familiar moon jellyfish or sea nettles, whose stings typically cause localized pain that gradually subsides, clinging jellyfish release powerful toxins that can trigger a much stronger reaction.

Victims often feel an immediate burning or stinging sensation.

However, symptoms may intensify over the following hours as toxins spread through the body. Severe muscle cramps, abdominal pain, chest pain and widespread discomfort have been reported. The pain can become debilitating enough to require emergency medical treatment. While no deaths have been linked to clinging jellyfish stings in new Jersey, some victims have been hospitalized for pain management. In one case, a patient reportedly required a morphine drip after being stung.

The symptoms can be alarming. Some individuals have mistaken the intense chest pain caused by a sting for a heart attack before learning the source was a jellyfish encounter.

Most recently, a 6-year-old girl was taken to an emergency room after being stung by a clinging jellyfish in the Metedeconk River in Brick Township.

While highly unlikely to be found at ocean beaches, these clinging jellyfish can be found in shallow bay and estuarine waters where they attach to seagrass and other aquatic vegetation. Despite their size, they can deliver an extremely painful sting.

Help reduce your risk of an encounter:

● Avoid wading in areas with dense seagrass or submerged aquatic vegetation

● Wear waders or long sleeves when recreating in waters where clinging jellyfish have been observed

● Stay aware of your surroundings when crabbing, fishing, kayaking, or exploring coastal bays and tidal creeks

If stung:

● Rinse the area with saltwater

● Carefully remove any tentacle material using gloves, a plastic card, or a thick towel

● Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen

Clinging jellyfish are native to the western Pacific Ocean and are believed to have arrived in n orth America through international shipping. Since then, populations have become established in portions of the northeast, including n ew Jersey coastal waterways.

e xperts recommend avoiding contact with submerged vegetation in shallow bay waters where the jellyfish are most likely to be present. Swimmers, kayakers, paddleboarders and boaters should remain aware of

their surroundings, especially in areas where sightings have been reported. While the presence of clinging jellyfish serves as a reminder to exercise caution in back-bay environments, ocean beachgoers can continue enjoying the Jersey Shore without concern. The species does not inhabit the surf zone, making n ew Jersey’s ocean beaches a safer option for summer recreation.

Multi-day Events

Ventnor Citywide Yard Sale

▶Saturday, June 27 & Sunday, June 28, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Events and Happenings

Mark your calendars for Ventnor City’s annual Yard Sale. Bargain hunters will enjoy a fantastic weekend of deals. Shop for pre-used and gently-used items including clothing and accessories, home décor, furniture, and collectables. Visit www.ventnorcity.org for additional information.

Thursday, June 25

Northfield 250th Freedom Festival

▶4 – 7 p.m.

Birch Grove Park

The northfield 250th Committee invites the community to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the united States. The event will include local food trucks, vendors, and live entertainment. Admission is free. For more information, contact Carolyn at cbucco@cityofnorthfield.org.

Absecon Galloway Rotary Club

Meetings

▶6 p.m.

Gourmet Italian Restaurant, 324 South Pitney Road, Galloway

The members of the Absecon Galloway Rotary Club invite the public

to be their guest at their upcoming meeting. Learn more about Rotary, how they serve our local community, and meet local community members. For club information, email Rose McCarthy, Club President, at bluerose46@aol.com.

Friday, June 26

Smithville Car Cruise

▶5 – 8 p.m.

Historic Smithville, 615 e . Moss Mill Road

Cruise over to Smithville and hang out with fellow car enthusiasts. Drive to the side parking lot of the Village Green near the red-covered bridge, and look for the orange cones set up. Move a cone and park your ride. Visit www.historicsmithville.com for more information.

Saturday, June 27

Margate Beachstock

▶8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Huntington Avenue Beach

The Planet’s Biggest Beach Party returns for a spectacular day of free activities with new food vendors, more kid’s activities, an eclectic lineup of live music, free surf and kite lessons, volleyball, cornhole, a Tiki Beach Bar, a surf competition, and more. The event is free to attend, and no beach tags are required. Rain date: Sunday, June 28. Visit www.margatehasmore. com for the complete event schedule. Pineapple Classic Surf Tournament

▶8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Huntington Avenue Beach, Margate

Jetty and Ben Gravy are teaming up to bring a multi-divisional surfing competition to Margate beach. Professional surfer Ben Gravy will headline the event, which will feature team-based heats, open competition, and experiences for youth surfers. Sign up on-site or online at www. margatehasmore.com.

Ocean City Antique Auto Show

▶9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Ocean City Tabernacle Grounds, 550 Wesley Ave.

Join the Jersey Cape Region Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) for their

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Margate's Beachstock Photo by Tom Briglia/PhotoGraphics

70th Annual Memorial Antique Auto Show. Dozens of classic cars will be parked between 5th and 6th Streets off Asbury Ave. A boardwalk parade will proceed the event at 2 p.m. More information is available at jerseycape. aaca.com/calendar.

Mays Landing Hometown Celebration

▶10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

War Memorial Park, Main Street and Route 50

Join the Mays Landing Merchants Association in celebrating the 27th Annual Hometown Celebration. Attendees will be treated to a full day of fun and festivities, with live music, prizes and giveaways, food trucks, craft and art vendors, chalk walk, bouncy house, corn hole toss, and more. Admission is free.

Somers Point Historical Society Open House

▶10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

745 Shore Road

Join the Somers Point Historical Society for their annual Open House this Saturday. Residents and visitors are invited to tour the museum and see their latest exhibits. A special ribbon cutting will be held outside the museum at 10 a.m.

Disability Awareness and Support Day

▶11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cape May County Park and Zoo, 707 Route 9, Cape May Court House

Join the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office as they host their Blue envelope Program Kick-Off event this Saturday. Bring your family and friends for a day at the zoo, and enjoy special prize giveaways, vendor appearances, and game activities. Plus learn about services and programs for children and adults with different abilities and special needs. Admission is free and the event will be held rain or shine.

Sunday, June 28

Concert for a Cure

▶2 p.m.

Gateway Playhouse, 738 Bay Avenue, Somers Point

Join Gateway for an unforgettable afternoon of original music featuring the music of Philadelphia indie rock band Tide II Moon, along with singer-songwriter Steven Lemon, and Rachel Burghen, accompanied by Brian Conover on piano. This special fundraising event will support the American Cancer Society, Gilda’s Club, and Wigs for Wishes. Visit www. gatewaybythebay.org for tickets and more information.

Brandon Tomasello: One Man Rat Pack with the OC POPS

▶7:30 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

The Ocean City Pops kicks off their 2026 season with class, comedy, and flair. The Rat Pack comes to musical life with Ocean City favorite Brandon Tomasello as hey presents a timeless and unmistakable performance of Frank, Dean, and Sammy. Tickets are available at www.oceancityvacation. com/boxoffice.

Mac McAnally

▶8 p.m.

Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Avenue

Record setting ten-time CMA Musician of the Year Mac McAnally is a renowned songwriter, singer, and instrumentalist who has written dozens of hit records for artists like Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and Sawyer Brown. Visit www.capemaycity.com/ boxoffice for more information.

Monday, June 29

Jurassic Adventure with Dinosaurs Arise

▶6 p.m.

Otto Bruyns Public Library, 241 W. Mill Road, northfield

Come face-to-face with a T. Rex at the library. Children and their families are invited to enjoy a pre-historic adventure as they meet a life-like eightfoot T. Rex, along with baby dinosaur puppets. Participants will also be invited to feed a small triceratops, dig into discovery, and unearth fossils. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required. Please call 609-6464476 for more information. Straight No Chaser

▶7 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

e xperience the thrilling sounds and stunning vocals of Straight n o Chaser this Monday at the Music Pier. The nine-member vocal group will blend harmonies, hits and humor in their upcoming “Beach Bash.” Visit www.ocnj.us/summerconcertseries for more information and to purchase tickets. Produced by BRe Presents.

Tuesday, June 30

Senior Dance Society

▶7 – 9:30 p.m.

Somers Point Fire Co. n o. 1, 447 Bethel Road

Join in the fun and enjoy an evening of dancing with live music duos every Tuesday. Activities include social dancing, line dancing, dance mixers and more. For more information, contact Sharon at kookiecar@ yahoo.com.

Wednesday, July 1

Beach Exercise: Pilates

▶8 – 9 a.m.

6th Street Beach, Ocean City Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for free Pilates every Wednesday. Bring

a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-3986900.

Wacky Wednesday: Pie Eating Contest

▶10:30 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of America with a good old-fashioned apple and cherry pie eating contest, no hands allowed. The contest is free and is open to the first 150 participants. Participants must be present at the Music Pier at 10:30 a.m. to participate. Freckle Contest

▶6 p.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

Join Ocean City as they host their annual Freckle Contest. Registration is free and begins at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Music Pier.

JCC Summer Series w/ B Street Band

▶7 p.m.

Marjorie & Lewis Katz JCC Auditorium, 501 n . Jerome Avenue, Margate Join JCC in Margate as they kick off their 2026 Summer Series with an evening of live music, merriment, and memories. The B Street Band opens the season, playing the best in Bruce Springsteen. Audiences will enjoy an enjoyable evening of dancing and singing along. Visit www.jccatlantic. org for more information.

Thursday, July 2

Market Days in Ocean City

▶10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Asbury Avenue from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets

Join Ocean City for Market Days every Thursday for strolling entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors, and more.

Sand Sculpting Contest

▶9 a.m.

Sixth Street Beach, Ocean City Open to kids, teens, adults and families. Registration is free and begins at 9 a.m. Judging will take place at 11 a.m. Visit www.oceancityvacation.com for more information.

Thrilling Thursday Movies on the Beach

▶6:30 – 9 p.m.

Granville and Huntington Avenue Beach, Margate

enjoy a free movie on the beach to end the day every Thursday between the bulkhead and dunes. Arrive at 6:30 p.m. for a free fun activity and giveaways while supplies last. The movie will begin at approximately 7 p.m. Mummers Night

▶7 – 9 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk from Sixth to Fourteenth Streets

↘Continued on 16

See the Mummers strut the boardwalk every Thursday night this summer, beginning at Sixth and 14th Streets and meeting at 10th Street. For details, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Ocean City Pops FREE Patriotic Drone Show and Outdoor Concert

▶8 p.m.

Carey Stadium, 6th St. & Atlantic Ave.

The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor concert followed by a dazzling patriotic drone show provided by the Friends of the POPs organization above the beach and boardwalk. The city’s legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. The show is outdoors with seating on the field and bleachers. Please bring a beach chair or towel to sit on the field.

Friday, July 3

Beach Exercise: Low Impact

▶8 – 9 a.m.

6th Street Beach, Ocean City

Meet on the beach between the boardwalk and volleyball courts for free. Low Impact exercise classes every Friday. Bring a towel and a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information, call 609-398-6900.

Ocean City Walking Club

▶8 – 10 a.m.

Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk

People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to meet outside the ticket booth at the Music Pier to walk the length of the boardwalk. Stay active, meet friends, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Weather permitting. Broadway Under the Stars

▶8 p.m.

Carey Stadium, 6th St. & Atlantic Ave.

Hear the best of Broadway under a blanket of stars as Pops Maestro

Vince Lee takes audiences on a whirlwind tour of the biggest hits of modern Broadway, with vocals by Shannon Cochran and David Gordon-Johnson. Visit www.oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice for tickets and more information.

Health and Wellness

Depression and Anxiety Group

▶Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

Atlantic Community Wellness Center 1125 Atlantic Ave. Suite 617, Atlantic City

This weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking

Welcome New Members

coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness, and recovery. Meetings are led by peers who have lived experience. n o 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, July 1, 1:30 p.m.

egg Harbor Township Community Center 5045 english Creek Ave.

Held on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at 609-402-6966 for more information. NAMI Connections and Family Support Groups

▶Monday, July 13, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point n AMI of Atlantic/Cape May offers free self-help, peer led support groups for family members, caregivers, and friends of individuals over the age of 18 living with a mental illness. Family Support and Connections groups meet on the second Monday of each month. Please visit www. namiacm.org for further information.

Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.

Photo by Cat Pepe

Fourth of July Festivities

America’s 250th Birthday

Borgata Fireworks Spectacular

▶Friday, July 3, 9:30 p.m.

1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa will host a spectacular fireworks show that will light the night sky across Atlantic City. Produced by Fireworks by Grucci, this 20-minute, musically synchronized display can be viewed from Borgata’s surface lot. Public viewing areas will open at 8:30 p.m. Galloway Township Fourth of July Parade

▶Saturday, July 4

9 a.m.

Smithville Blvd. & Moss Mill Road to Historic Smithville, 615 e . Moss Mill Road

The parade will begin at the Smithville Square Shopping Center on Smithville Blvd. to Moss Mill Road then past Historic Smithville where the parade will end at the Village Greene. More information is available at www.july4galloway.com.

Linwood Bike Parade

▶Saturday, July 4

10 a.m.

Linwood Historical Society Museum, 16 Poplar Avenue

Join the Linwood Historical So -

ciety and Linwood Fire Department for their annual Bike Parade, which will begin and end at the museum.

Decorate your bike and stop by the Museum and Fire Department after the parade for more activities.

Longport American Mile

▶Saturday, July 4

6:30 p.m.

Longport Fire House, 2305 Atlantic Avenue

Join the Longport Volunteer Fire Department for their annual American Mile. The course will be a point-to-point race, beginning at 11th Avenue and Atlantic Ave, running north on Atlantic to the finish line at Pelham Avenue Sign up at www.

longportnj.gov.

Margate Fourth of July Fireworks

Extravaganza

▶Saturday, July 4

9 p.m.

Huntington Avenue Beach

Hosted by the Margate Mothers Association. Bring your beach chairs, blankets, and kids, and enjoy spectacular fireworks displayed over the beach. Learn more at www.margatehasmore.com or call 609-823-9144.

Northfield Connolly Mile

▶Saturday, July 4

8:30 a.m.

City Hall, 1600 Shore Road

Join n orthfield’s annual Connolly Memorial Mile Run, a beautiful treelined, traffic-free one mile run on Shore Road to City Hall, prior to the city’s annual Fourth of July Parade. Race day registration will be open from 7 – 8:15 a.m.

Northfield July 4th Parade

▶Saturday, July 4

10 a.m.

Shore Road & Jackson Avenue to Burton Avenue Fire Station

The parade will take place along

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Shore Road from Jackson Avenue to the Burton Avenue Fire Station via Mill Road. Parade participants are welcome to join, including volunteers, community groups, floats, northfield businesses, and kids on bikes. Rain date: Saturday, July 11.

Ocean City Fourth of July Celebration

▶Saturday, July 4

7 – 9 p.m.

Ocean City Boardwalk

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a kite flying competition at 7 p.m. next to the Music Pier at Moorlyn Terrace and the beach, followed by entertainment next to the Music Pier. A spectacular boardwalk fireworks display tops off the evening at 9 p.m., viewable along the beach and boardwalk. For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

Ocean City Pops Free Outdoor Concert

▶Saturday, July 4

8 p.m.

Carey Stadium, Sixth Street and Boardwalk

The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor show of patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field; there will be seating available in the bleachers.

Ocean City North End Bike Parade

▶Saturday, July 4

10 a.m.

Longport Bridge parking lot at n ewcastle Road

Sponsored by the Gardens Civic Association. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the parade begins at 10 a.m.

Ocean City South End Bike Parade

▶Saturday, July 4

10 a.m.

40th Street and Asbury Avenue

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SERVINGTHESHORE FOROVER20YEARS

Beachstock returns to Margate with Phillie Phanatic, new surf contest and

fun

Beachstock: The Planet’s Biggest Beach Party returns to Margate on Saturday, June 27, featuring a first-ever appearance by the Phillie Phanatic, a new surf contest hosted by Ben Gravy, live music, food vendors and family-friendly activities along the beachfront.

The free festival, now in its 15th year, will take place from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. between Huntington and Gran -

ville avenues. A rain date is scheduled for June 28. Organizers expect more than 8,000 visitors throughout the day.

n ew this year is the Jetty x Ben Gravy Pineapple Classic, a multi-division surf contest presented by Jetty, the Jetty Rock Foundation and the Margate Business Association. The competition will feature men’s and women’s divisions along with a Foamie Free-for-All session. Surfers ages

12 and older with intermediate-level experience are invited to participate. All registered surfers will receive a commemorative event T-shirt.

Ben Gravy, one of the east Coast’s most recognizable surfing personalities, will headline the event. Known for documenting his travels and wave-chasing adventures around the world, Gravy has built a large following through his energetic approach to surfing and storytelling.

The competition will include teamstyle heats, open sessions and youth surf experiences throughout the day. Stacey’s Surf Camp will offer free surf lessons for attendees interested in trying the sport.

For the first time, Beachstock also will welcome a special appearance by the Phillie Phanatic. The popular mascot is expected to make appearances throughout the festival, entertaining children and adults alike.

Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of

food and beverage options from local vendors, including Margate Dairy Bar & Burger, Tacocat, Sherri’s Crab Cakes, California Yogurt, Le Onde Pizza and AC Concessions. Desserts and refreshments will be available from For Goodness Cakes and Ma & Squeezie’s Lemonade.

Adults can visit the beer garden and beachfront tiki bar, featuring selections from Stateside Super Lyte, Alibi Gin, Good Boy Vodka and Frank’s espresso Martinis.

Family-friendly activities will be offered throughout the day, including a Wiffle ball home run derby, sand sculpting, surfing lessons, kite demonstrations by Air Circus, the Margate Cornhole League Tournament and an AC Volleyball Factory competition.

Face painter Alisa Dirato and The Hairy Fairy Lady will provide additional entertainment for children. The Margate City Police Department will

host a booth with giveaways, while Jamaican Me Crazy will offer hacky sack demonstrations and merchandise. Attendees also will have the opportunity to take photos with two Lombardi Trophies from the Philadelphia eagles’ Super Bowl championship teams.

Live entertainment will take place on two stages throughout the day. The Cat Country 107.3 main stage will feature performances by The Shoobs, n o Clue Band and Right Turn at 40.

Beachstock favorites The South Pacific Island Dancers will return with their Polynesian dance performances. Cat Country 107.3 and eSPn 97.3 will broadcast from the event, with eSPn airing live from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Additional entertainment includes appearances by performers from Atlantic City’s hit variety show, “The Hook,” and longtime emcee Dick Marlin. Featured performer Chanel will showcase her hula hoop artistry during a special beach performance.

The children’s stage will feature an appearance by Miss n ew Jersey, along with performances by students from Susie n eustadter, Blake’s Gymnastics and emerald Isle Academy of Irish Dance. educational activities will include an eco-friendly treasure

hunt and “Wonders of the Beach” presentations with Sustainable Downbeach’s Scuba Steve.The Margate City Fire Department will offer its popular “5-Minute Cool Blast” at the top and bottom of each hour.

Following sunset, Beachstock After Dark will feature a performance by South Jersey band i Candee, known for its high-energy mix of classic and contemporary hits. The South Pacific Island Dancers will

return with a traditional Polynesian luau and fire dancing performance. The evening also includes a beachside screening of “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants,” along with a bonfire and continued service at the beachfront tiki bar until 10 p.m.

Visitors can also explore sponsor exhibits from Colmar Home Center, Renewal by Andersen, Freedom Boat Club, LeafGuard and the State of new Jersey unclaimed Property Program.

To help ease traffic and parking concerns, complimentary jitney shuttle service will operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. along Atlantic Avenue between Coolidge and Fredericksburg avenues and the eugene A. Tighe School.

Beachstock is organized by the Margate Business Association in partnership with the City of Margate. For more information, visit margatehasmore.com.

Atlantic City Farmers Market

▶Fridays, 4 – 6 p.m.

Fisherman’s Park Community Garden, Massachusetts & Drexel Avenues

Join C.R.O.P.S. for their weekly farmers markets, where you can shop for locally grown vegetables, fruit and herbs. Plus, enjoy free activities and a community garden with harvested vegetables and herbs. Markets are open Fridays through Sept. 18.

Brigantine Farmers Market

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Brigantine Community School parking lot, Sheridan Boulevard

The Brigantine Farmers Market will be open to customers on Saturdays, rain or shine, through Sept. 5. For more information, visit www. facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket.

Egg Harbor Township Community Farmers Market

Farmers Markets

market, featuring dozens of area vendors and businesses, food, crafters, and more. Markets are open weekly through Oct. 11.

Galloway Green Market

▶Thursdays, 4 – 7 p.m.

Historic Smithville Village Greene, 615 e . Moss Mill Road

Go Green Galloway hosts their weekly Green Market, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates. Markets are open Thursdays through Aug. 27.

Margate Community Farmers Market

▶Thursdays, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Steve & Cookie’s, Amherst & Monroe Avenues

The Margate Community Farmers Market is open for the 2026 season, with dozens of local vendors selling prepared food, baked goods, and more. Parking is available in the lot on Monroe Ave. Markets are open on Thursdays through Sept. 3.

Ocean City Farmers Market

▶Wednesdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Ocean City Tabernacle Grounds, Asbury Avenue from 5th – 6th Streets

Visit dozens of vendors on the grounds of the Tabernacle, and crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave. Markets are open Wednesdays through Sept. 16. For more information, call 1-800-B e ACH- nJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.

Risley Square Farmers Market

▶Sundays, July 12 – September 27, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

319 e . Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway

Come shop for produce, homemade goods, fresh baked treats, local crafts, and more. It is the perfect way to spend a Sunday while supporting

Somers Point Farmers Market

▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Somers Mansion, 1000 Shore Road

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

Ventnor City Farmers Market

▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

n ewport & Atlantic Avenues

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

Photo captured at the Margate Farmers Market by Cat Pepe

Meet Aryiane Hill: The teen leader inspiring an entire region

Eleven years ago, a shy kindergartner walked through the doors of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. Today, this young woman stands among the most outstanding young leaders in America.

Aryiane Hill, a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City, has been named the 2026 n ortheast Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Events

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

JUNE 28

Reenactment of Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet in Wildwood Crest

JUNE 29

Patriotic Drone Show in Wildwood Crest

JULY 2

Anglesea Nights in North Wildwood

JULY 3 - 5

Sports Card, Toys, Comics & Collectibles July Show in the Wildwoods Convention Center

JULY 3 - 5

Boardwalk Craft Show

JULY 4

Independence Day Family and Pooch Parade in North Wildwood

Jump City Jazz Orchestra in Wildwood

July 4 Celebration in Wildwood Crest

Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular in Wildwood

JULY 5 Drone Show on the Wildwood Beaches

JULY 6 Army Band Concert in Wildwood

TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS Arts in the Parks

7 p m | June 23 - August 27

TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS Doo Wop and Neon Night Tours

8 p m | June 16 - August 27

SATURDAY MORNINGS UNTIL AUGUST 30 Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market

at Sunset Lake

p m | June 29- August 24

Tuesdays at Crest Arts Pavilion

7 p m | June 30 - August 25

Wednesdays at Centennial Park 7 p m | Food Trucks 5-9 p m July 1 - August 26

Thursdays at Byrne Plaza

7:30 p m | June 18 - September 10 Saturdays at Centennial Park 7 p m | June 27 - September 5

WILDWOODS ISLAND SHUTTLE LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US

Jitney service from Diamond Beach to Olde New Jersey Avenue and everywhere in between!

Download the free Jitney Surfer app.

Plan your visit today and enter to win a free family vacation

Selected from the top Youth of the Year finalists across 12 states and territories, Aryiane now represents the entire northeast Region and will advance to compete for the national Youth of the Year title this fall.

Along with this prestigious honor, Aryiane has earned a $20,000 college scholarship and the opportunity to represent millions of Club youth across the nation.

Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s highest honor. It recognizes young people who exemplify academic success, leadership, service, character and a commitment to creating positive change.

For Aryiane, this recognition is the result of years of perseverance, mentorship and growth.

As a Club member, she participated in Keystone Club, Junior Staff, leadership development programs,

workforce readiness experiences and community service initiatives. She discovered her voice through public speaking opportunities, learned the value of service and developed the confidence to lead others.

This fall, Aryiane will attend Stockton u niversity, where she plans to study political science and pursue a career as a criminal defense attorney.

When asked about her journey, Aryiane often reflects on the impact of her longtime Club mentor, Ms. Karen.

When she first arrived at the Club as a young child, Ms. Karen saw potential before Aryiane saw it in herself.

That encouragement became confidence.

That confidence became leadership.

That leadership became purpose.

And today, that purpose has inspired an entire region.

Aryiane’s success did not happen by accident. It happened because caring adults showed up, donors invested in opportunities and mentors believed in a young person before she believed in herself.

every day at Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City, young people are discov-

ering who they can become through academic support, workforce development, leadership opportunities, STe AM education, mentorship and life changing experiences. Programs like Keystone Club, Youth of the Year, Center of Transformation, career pathways and college readiness initiatives help transform potential into possibility.

Postcards From The Past

Somers Point once was home to a bowling alley, which later became a movie theater. Shore Orthopedic is now there on MacArthur Boulevard.

Credit Brian Lee Kennedy, Somers Point Historical Society

Ilitch family, founders of Little Caesars, moves to take full ownership of Ocean Casino Resort

By Julia Train

The Ilitch family, best known for founding the Little Caesars pizza chain and owning several major Detroit sports franchises, is moving to acquire full ownership of Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City.

The transaction will give the family control of the remaining 50% stake in the casino currently owned

by Luxor Capital, a new York-based investment firm. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The acquisition was announced June 18 alongside the launch of Ilitch Gaming, a newly formed company that will oversee the family's gaming and hospitality interests. In addition to Ocean Casino Resort, the portfolio includes MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit and, pending approvals, Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort in D'Iberville, Mississippi.

Ocean Casino Resort General Manager Bill Callahan said the ownership change represents a continuation of the property's recent trajectory.

“Ocean Casino Resort is thrilled to become a member of Ilitch Gaming’s portfolio. As Ocean’s managing partner for the past three years, this transaction by Ilitch represents a natural next step in Ocean’s journey and a continuation of the strategy and vision that have fueled our success,” Callahan said in a statement to Shore Local. “Guests can continue to expect the exceptional experiences, dedicated team members, and ongoing investments that have established Ocean as one of Atlantic City’s premier resort destinations.”

Chris Ilitch, CeO of Ilitch Companies and chairman of the newly formed Ilitch Gaming, said the new venture builds on the gaming legacy established by his mother, who played a significant role in developing Detroit's commercial casino industry through MotorCity Casino Hotel.

“My mother Marian Ilitch’s vision for MotorCity Casino Hotel and our success in Detroit over nearly three decades is the inspiration for what comes next,” Ilitch said in a company announcement. “The formation of Ilitch Gaming marks a defining new chapter in the evolution of our gaming and hospitality business. We remain committed to creating memorable experiences for guests, supporting responsible gaming, and serving as a positive economic force in the communities where we operate.”

According to reporting by The Associated Press, the Ilitch family first purchased a 50% interest in Ocean Casino Resort from Luxor Capital in 2021. Luxor had assumed control of the property after the 2019 death of former owner Bruce Deifik, who had purchased the casino after its earlier life as Revel.

Originally opened as Revel in 2012, the property closed two years later after struggling financially. Luxor subsequently invested millions of dollars into renovations, debt reduction and operational improvements while assembling a management team with extensive Atlantic City experience.

In recent years, Ocean has emerged as one of Atlantic City's strongest-performing casino properties. The Associated Press reported that the resort regularly ranks among the city's top three casinos for gam -

bling revenue, following Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.

In 2024, Ocean generated approximately $468 million in revenue from in-person gambling, representing the largest year-over-year increase among Atlantic City's nine casinos. Ilitch Companies said it has worked closely with Ocean's leadership team since becoming a part-owner of the property, supporting capital improvements and operational growth initiatives.

The newly announced Ilitch Gaming platform will be led by CeO and Chief Development Officer John Policicchio, with Bruce Dall serving as vice chairman. Policicchio said the company intends to focus on supporting employees, enhancing guest experiences and investing in the communities where its properties operate.

“Our focus is straightforward: support great teams, deliver exceptional guest experiences, invest in the communities we serve, and responsibly grow the business over time,” Policicchio said in the company's announcement.

The Ocean Casino acquisition, the Scarlet Pearl purchase and the formation of Ilitch Gaming all remain subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. u ntil those approvals are secured, the properties will continue operating under their current structures, according to the company.

Julia graduated from Rider University in 2024 with a BA in multiplatform journalism and minor in social media strategies. In addition to reporting on local news for Shore Local, she is a social media strategist for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @ juliatrain on Instagram.

The Ilitch family is moving from owning 50% of the casino to 100%. Photo provided by Ocean Casino Resort

Hamilton Township moves forward with tax agreement for proposed Amazon fulfillment center

By Cindy Christy Fertsch

Hamilton Township officials have taken another step toward redevelopment of the former Atlantic City Race Course property by introducing an ordinance that would establish a long-term payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement for Amazon's proposed fulfillment center.

The ordinance, introduced during the Township Committee's June 15 meeting, outlines a 29-year agreement that would generate more than $2.4 million in annual revenue for the township. The annual payment would increase by 2.25% each year throughout the life of the agreement. under the proposal, Atlantic County would receive 5% of the annual PILOT payments.

A public hearing and final vote on the ordinance are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. July 6 at the municipal building on 13th Street.

Township leaders view the proposed agreement as another milestone in the long-awaited redevelopment of the former race course, which has remained vacant since

horse racing ended more than a decade ago. Officials anticipate Amazon will receive its building permit no later than Sept. 30, allowing construction to move forward later this year.

The proposed fulfillment center would rely heavily on advanced automation to process customer orders. Products would be stored within

designed to improve efficiency while reducing the amount of time needed to move merchandise throughout the warehouse.

to transform the former Atlantic City Race Course into one of the region's largest logistics facilities. In addition to generating new tax revenue through the PILOT agreement, the project is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs during the building phase, followed by permanent positions once the warehouse becomes operational.

a sophisticated automated storage and retrieval system, where robotic technology would transport inventory through the facility to employees responsible for packing and shipping orders. The automated process is

Plans for the project were delayed approximately six months after Amazon revised the building's design. Initial proposals called for a taller, multi-level structure, but the company later redesigned the facility to better accommodate its operational needs. The updated plans required additional engineering and municipal review before moving forward.

The fulfillment center is expected

Redevelopment of the long-vacant property has been discussed for years, with several proposals falling through before Amazon selected the site for its next South Jersey distribution center. If the remaining approvals proceed on schedule, township officials expect construction activity to begin after permits are issued later this year.

The project represents one of the largest private investments proposed in Hamilton Township in recent years and is expected to significantly reshape the former race track property while strengthening the township's commercial tax base for decades to come.

Seven local family fun summer spots

By Delaney Crawford

Summer has finally come swinging into South Jersey. With the kids now out on summer break, it’s the perfect time to plan those family outings and playdates to keep them busy and happy all season long. Between long beach days ending with sandy toes and boardwalk night hangs, there are plenty of other fun activities right in our area to keep them entertained and making memories too.

To help busy parents plan some adventures, we put together a list of fun activities the kids can indulge in this season. Here are our seven must-visit spots this summer that the whole family can enjoy!

Storybook Land

An iconic landmark that people travel near and far to visit is luckily right in our backyard. Storybook Land is the perfect place to take the kids, let them run around, enjoy rides, grab some snacks, and spend a full day having family-friendly fun. Between the roller coasters, storybook sights, other kids running around, and rides of all sizes, it’s a great stop for all ages to enjoy.

6415 Black Horse Pike, egg Harbor Township | storybookland.com

OC

Aqua Park

Think bouncy house, but on the water. Located in Ocean City, this is the only inflatable water obstacle course on the island, complete with slides, monkey bars, diving boards, climbing features, and so much more. With lifeguards on duty, the park is designed for kids ages 6 and up, with designated splash sessions available for younger children as well. Water, activities, and bouncy fun are calling for your kids this summer, and they are sure to have a blast.

228 Bay Avenue, Ocean City | aquaparkocnj.com

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Looking for something a little more chill but still sure to impress the kids? Take them to the Cape May County Park & Zoo. Free to enter, families can walk through and admire all the incredible animals that call the zoo home. Grab some souvenirs and treats to keep everyone fed and happy while enjoying a day filled with sights, sounds, and family fun. Any

zoo makes for a great day trip, and ours is no different.

707 uS-9 north, Cape May Court House | capemaycountynj.gov

Aquarium

Much like the zoo, but a little more on theme for summer. The Atlantic City Aquarium recently reopened and is better than ever, just in time for the season. Walk through the space, let the kids wander up close to the glass to see these amazing animals, and parents can thank us later for the air conditioning. With interactive exhibits throughout, the kids will never be bored exploring everything the aquarium has to offer.

800 n new Hampshire Ave, Atlantic City | acnj.gov

The Yard

A spot for the kids to run around and play without making your car a mess afterwards. The Yard in Ocean City is a newer feature to our favorite family resort. Kids can climb, play, jump and run in the ultimate aerial netted outdoor playground. There are also simulators where the kids can virtually experience 20 different sports. It’s the ultimate kid zone for a fun day of play or a summer birthday party.

741 West Ave, Ocean City | theyardocnj.com

Morey’s Pier

n othing screams summer quite like heading down to Wildwood and enjoying the day at Morey’s Pier. From the expansive amusement rides to the water park haven, Morey’s is the place every kid wants to spend a

summer day. Head down for the day or make it a weekend staycation! The kids will love every aspect of it.

3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood | moreyspiers.com

Funny Farm

Another chance to see some animals, and this time, feed them! At the Funny Farm in Mays Landing, visitors can interact with and feed hundreds of different animals. Known as a rescue and sanctuary, the Funny Farm is home to animals of all kinds, from cats to emus and everything in between. It’s the perfect place for kids to get up close with animals they normally wouldn’t encounter, all while supporting a great cause and exerting some energy this summer.

6908 Railroad Blvd, Mays Landing | funnyfarmrescue.org no matter what kind of adventure your family is looking for this summer, around here we have a ton of kid-friendly fun to indulge in. Whether you spend the day running around through Storybook Land, bouncing across the Aqua Park, meeting animals at the zoo or exploring the creatures of the ocean, these local attractions offer plenty of opportunities to create lasting summer memories. So, grab the sunscreen, pack the kids and start checking off your family's summer bucket list.

Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DLC Media, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.

Aqua Park brings bounce house fun to the water

Open Wed, Thurs. Fri. 10:00-3:00

Saturday and Sunday 11:00-5:00.

Closed Monday & Tuesday

Local girls soccer team advances to National Championship

Agroup of young athletes from across the South Jersey Shore is preparing to take the field on one of youth soccer's biggest stages after winning the 2026 uS Youth Soccer n ortheast Regional Presidents Cup Championship.

The roster includes players from communities throughout South Jersey, including Marmora, Ocean City, Ocean View, egg Harbor Township, northfield, Brigantine, Lower Township, and Middle Township, making the team's success a source of pride for families across both Atlantic and Cape May Counties.

Representing n J Surf South Shore, the u14 girls team captured the northeast Regional title in Simsbury, Connecticut this past Sunday, defeating top teams from throughout the region and securing the opportunity to compete for a national championship beginning July 7.

The accomplishment comes less

than a year after the team claimed the 2025 n ew Jersey State President’s Cup Championship, continuing a remarkable run that has positioned them among the nation's top youth soccer teams.

Should they win the n ational Presidents Cup, the team would become the first u14 girls team from n ew Jersey to capture a uS Youth Soccer national Presidents Cup Championship, marking a historic achievement for youth soccer in the Garden State. What makes this accomplishment especially meaningful is that many of the players have been teammates since they were old enough to kick a soccer ball. Over the years, they have grown together through practices,

tournaments, road trips, victories, and setbacks, creating friendships that extend far beyond the soccer field.

Head Coach Leon Brown, affectionately reflected on the significance of the achievement.

"In my career as a coach, I've had five teams make it to the northeast Regionals, but this is the first team that has won and advanced to compete at nationals. I guess it was fifth time's the charm for me," Brown quipped.

"I'm so proud of these young women. From their grit and determination to their intense work ethic, it all contributes to them competing so successfully at this high level. They've earned every bit of this opportunity."

Team captain Malley Heenan said the regional championship was the result of years of dedication and teamwork.

"Winning the northeast Regional Presidents Cup was an amazing feeling because we knew how much work everyone had put in to get there. now we have the chance to compete against the best teams in the country, and that's something we've dreamed about for a long time."

The team's excitement has only grown as they prepare for nationals during a summer when soccer is capturing attention around the world.

As soccer enjoys unprecedented popularity across the united States, these young athletes now have the opportunity to represent not only nJ Surf South Shore, but also South Jersey, n ew Jersey, and the entire n ortheast Region on the national stage.

With the n ational Presidents Cup beginning on July 7 in Wichita, Kansas, the team is currently working to offset travel expenses, including airfare, lodging, meals, and transportation. The estimated cost is approximately $3,000 per player and one family member, and fundraising efforts are underway to help every athlete participate in this once-in-alifetime experience.

Community members and local businesses interested in supporting the team's journey to n ationals are encouraged to contribute to the team's fundraising campaign and help these young women pursue a national championship. Fundraising Link: https://gofund.me/52a0978d2

Old Mays Landing school sold to residential developer

By Cindy Christy Fertsch

Along-vacant school property in Mays Landing could be transformed into a 69-unit residential community under a redevelopment proposal presented to township officials this week.

Philadelphia-based Odin Properties has been designated the conditional redeveloper of the former Harold J. Duberson School property following approval of a Township Committee resolution. The designation marks an early step in what is expected to be a lengthy approval process.

Developers told township officials the proposal is intended to preserve the school's historic appearance while adapting the property for residential use. The building has remained vacant for more than two decades and will require extensive rehabilitation before construction can move forward.

Preservation efforts will be reviewed by multiple state and federal agencies, including the n ew Jersey Historic Trust, the n ew Jersey Historic Preservation Office, the n ew Jersey Pinelands Commission and the national Park Service. The township's Preservation Commission also will review the project to help ensure

The former K-8 school was sold to the developer by the Hamilton Township Board of education last September. Financial terms of the sale were not released. Odin Properties, established in 2009, focuses on redeveloping aging and underused properties.

Plans call for converting the historic school building into one-bedroom apartments while constructing additional duplex homes throughout the property. The duplexes would include a combination of two- and three-bedroom residences.

the building's historic character is maintained.

Township officials expressed support for the concept, describing the proposal as an opportunity to breathe new life into a property that has sat unused for years.

Before construction can begin, the developer must obtain Planning Board approval and negotiate a formal redevelopment agreement with the township. Officials said the proposal remains in the preliminary stages, with additional reviews and approvals still required.

Train rides with Santa from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. each day.

Santa will be visiting participating shops each day for Photos.

Stores will have specials and treats.

Family friendly activities, pop-ups and contests.

PARTICIPATING SHOPS

Beachwood Trading Co.

The Bee’s Knees

Candle Shoppe

Castle in the Air

Celebrity Collectibles

Coast House & Co.

Crafting Cellar

The Glass Nook

Historic Smithville Inn

Honey Pot House of Jerky

Sol

N Grape

Nation

Dazzle

Surf Road Coffee Bar The Village Sweet Shoppe The Underground

DOZENS OF CRAFTING VENDORS

Thank You for Voting Us the Best Jewelry Store

Calmer hurricane season expected in Atlantic as worries over federal response persist

By Sam Gauntt, NJ Monitor

The Atlantic Ocean is predicted to have a tamer-than-usual hurricane season this year, but experts say it’s necessary to remain vigilant as it can take only one serious storm to cause significant damage.

But with many of the nation’s climate and weather-focused and emergency response agencies facing proposed funding cuts, some policy analysts are warning that states’ ability to respond to serious weather events could be weakened.

The national Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts there will likely be between eight and 14 named storms, with between three and six of those becoming hurricanes, this season.

n OAA estimates there will be between one and three serious hurricanes — those ranging from Category

3 to Category 5, which brings winds higher than 157 mph. An average hurricane season has about 14 named storms and three serious hurricanes.

This season’s relatively lesser predicted intensity comes mainly from the current el nino, according to Matthew Rosencrans, nOAA’s lead for seasonal hurricane outlook.

“August, September, October is really the peak of the hurricane season, that accounts for 90% of all your tropical storm and hurricane activity in the Atlantic,” he said. “And we’re expecting even that to be quiet, too.”

While n OAA will update its forecast for the remainder of the season in August, Rosencrans said the difference between the early and later summer forecasts is not typically large, but often a change of just one or two predicted storms.

Being prepared e ven though the upcoming

hurricane season isn’t likely to be as intense as in years past, some storm-prone states may be more unprepared to respond to them, some experts warn.

The Trump administration’s funding cuts, layoffs and reorganization efforts to the nation’s weather and climate-related agencies have put these communities at risk, according to a recent report from the liberal-leaning Center for American Progress.

“The Trump administration has just made it its mission to stretch out our federal agencies way too thin,” Lucero Marquez, the center’s associate director for federal climate policy, said.

Marquez said that many states don’t have the infrastructure to handle severe weather events entirely on their own without federal assistance. If local governments are forced to shoulder more of the burden, she said, it could affect their ability to respond to crises.

If agencies like the Federal emergency Management Agency were to withdraw support, she said, state and local communities would not be equipped.

Top u.S. House Democrats on the Homeland Security Committee say more than 5,000 FeMA employees have left since January 2025 and a

recent report by a review panel recommended more cutbacks.

According to data from the Disaster Dollar Database, a tool launched by the Carnegie endowment for International Peace that tracks federal funding for disaster recovery efforts, residents and households in Florida, Texas and Louisiana alone have received more than $10 billion in relief payments since 2015.

FEMA says it’s ready

But representatives for the federal government’s weather and emergency response agencies said they’re fully prepared for the season.

operations and mission readiness,” the statement read.

In a statement to States n ewsroom, a FeMA spokesperson said the agency is “ensuring workforce stability and a strong, deployable force for upcoming national events and potential disasters; making the agency leaner, faster and laser-focused on supporting state, local, tribal and territorial partners before, during and after disasters.”

“FeMA continues to maintain a roster of experienced leadership and support staff across headquarters and regional offices, including through acting and career personnel serving in key roles to ensure continuity of

A representative for the national Weather Service echoed this sentiment.

“We have been and continue to be fully staffed for around-the-clock operations to meet the rigorous demands of severe weather season, hurricane season, and all other weather hazards,” erica Cei, a spokesperson for the national Weather Service and its national Hurricane Center, said in a statement to States n ewsroom.

Best safety practices

A lighter season doesn’t mean there still can’t be a dangerous or

damaging storm.

Rosencrans, the n OAA meteorologist, said that the forecasts predicted the overall amount of storm activity, not necessarily the strength of an individual storm.

“Definitely the potential for any one of the storms that does form to go all the way to Cat 5, if it hits the right area of low wind shear and the right area of warm sea surface temperatures,” he said. “In bulk, we’re not expecting to see as many of them this year, because you just don’t have as much energy in the Atlantic.”

To stay safe during significant weather events, Rosencrans recommended preparing ahead of time and stocking up on food, water and gas.

He also advised residents to gather all necessary paperwork, such as proof of residency documentation, in addition to reviewing insurance policies for flooding or storm damage.

Rosencrans also stressed the importance of monitoring current storm conditions. He advised checking the weather.gov and hurricanes.gov trackers frequently, as well as staying up to date with your local county, parish or state emergency managers for community-specific information and updates.

By Robin Stoloff

S'Redo in two,' the simple sunscreen habit that works

ummer at the shore has officially arrived and so has our annual reminder about sunscreen. Most of us already know we need it. The bigger question, the one that trips so many of us up, is reapplication. We slather on SPF before we leave the house, feel good about ourselves, and then spend six hours at the beach without giving it another thought. That's where the real risk creeps in.

Here's the thing about sunscreen: it isn't a force field. It's more like an umbrella that slowly springs leaks. Water, sweat, sand, and simple time all break down its protection, and by hour two, even the most expensive bottle on the shelf is losing its effectiveness. That's why we've started using a phrase on my radio show, Living Well that's easy to remember: "Redo in Two." every two hours, no matter how high the SPF number, it's time to reapply. If we've been swimming or sweating, that clock resets even faster.

There's a reason dermatologists keep hammering this point. Skin damage from uV exposure is cumulative, which means every unprotected hour adds up over a lifetime, not just a single afternoon. The sunburns we remember from childhood summers, the ones that peeled and stung, all count toward our long-term skin cancer risk. The good news is that consistent protection now genuinely changes that trajectory.

So what does good protection actually look like? Dermatologists recommend a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher, applied generously, about a shot glass worth for the whole body. Most of us use far less than that without realizing it. We also tend to miss the same spots over and over: the tops of our ears, the back of the neck, the tops of our feet, and the part in our hair, where we can use spray-on scalp sunscreens.

With so many bottles on the shelf, it's worth knowing the two main types of sunscreens. Mineral sunscreen, made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, sit on top of the skin and physically block uV rays. They tend to be gentler for sensitive skin and begin to work the moment they're applied, though some leave a slight white cast and can feel a bit thicker going on. Chemical sunscreens, with ingredients like avobenzone or octocrylene, absorb into the skin and convert uV rays into heat. They're

typically lighter, blend in invisibly, and are a favorite for everyday wear, but they need about fifteen to twenty minutes to fully activate before sun exposure.

There are also a few hybrid formulas that combine both types, aiming to capture the best of each. For anyone with sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or little ones in the family, mineral sunscreens are often the gentler choice. For everyday use under makeup or for an active beach day where a smooth, invisible finish matters, a chemical formula might feel more comfortable. either way, the most important factor isn't which type we choose, it's that we're applying it generously and sticking to "Redo in Two.”

Reapplication doesn't have to be a hassle. Spray formulas make it easy to do a quick pass without breaking up the day, and setting a phone timer for two hours takes the guesswork out completely. Some families have made it a fun group ritual: when the timer goes off, everyone pauses for a thirty-second "sunscreen huddle" before going back to their sandcastles or their book. It turns a chore into a shared rhythm of the day.

Clothing and shade matter too, and they're an easy complement to sunscreen rather than a replacement for it. A wide brimmed hat, uV-protective rash guards for the kids, and a beach umbrella during the strongest midday hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. all add real protection without any extra products. Think of sunglasses as sunscreen for our eyes, which are also vulnerable to uV

damage.

It's worth saying that tanning is not a sign of health. A "base tan" doesn't protect us from burning, no matter what that old myth claims. Our skin darkening is actually a visible sign of

damage already happening beneath the surface. There's no such thing as a safe tan, only varying degrees of unprotected exposure.

If we do get a sunburn, despite our best efforts, cool compresses, plenty of hydration, and aloe-based products can ease the discomfort while skin heals. Blistering, fever, or a burn covering a large portion of the body are signs to call a doctor rather than just riding it out.

The bigger picture here is simple: a few seconds of effort every two hours protects decades of skin health. So, as we head into a summer full of beach days, boardwalk strolls, and backyard barbecues, let's make "Redo in Two" part of our routine.

Here’s to a summer full of sunshine, and skin that's well protected to enjoy every bit of it.

Robin is a former television reporter for NBC News 40. She currently hosts a podcast and radio program called Living Well with Robin Stoloff. It airs Sundays at 10 AM on Lite 96.9. You can email Robin at livingwellwithrobin@gmail.com

Miss Night in Venice contestants start fundraising

The seven young women who are competing in the 2026 Miss night in Venice fundraising competition have less than one month left to collect as much money as possible for 13 local charities in Cape May and Atlantic Counties.

nadia Marzano, Madison Richards,

Aarlene Sanchez, n oley Schenck, Madison Specht, Bridget Towers and April Wright are also collecting community service hours and the chance to win $1,000 toward a college scholarship or a donation to a local nonprofit.

On Monday, July 20 at 7 p.m. the contestant who collects the highest

amount of donations will be crowned Miss n ight in Venice 2026 on the stage of The Ocean City Tabernacle.

The queen, her court and contestants are part of Ocean City’s annual night in Venice Boat Parade and they will ride the lead vessel.

The boat parade is scheduled for Saturday, July 25.

Nadia Marzano

Bridget Towers Araalene Sanchez

The 13 qualifying charities benefiting from all the contestants’ hard work are: CASA, Case For Smiles, Casting for Recovery, Hero Campaign, Masterworks Choir, OC ecumenical

Council, OC Tabernacle, SJ Field of Dreams, Shore Medical Center, SJ Chapter Quilts of Valor, Sunshine Foundation, Volunteers in Medicine and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

Your boat, any size–docking and boat handling by an expert instructor, US Coast Guard Licensed Merchant Marine Master Captain

April Wright

Noley Schenck

Madison Richards

Madison Specht

Boardwalk subcommittee envisions compromise for former Wonderland site

By Julia Train

After about seven months of research, public input and analysis, Ocean City's Boardwalk Subcommittee unveiled its recommendations for the future of the boardwalk. n ow, City Council will be voting on whether to designate the property as an area “in need of rehabilitation.”

The subcommittee’s report suggested a compromise approach for the former Wonderland Pier site, rejecting both a return to a traditional amusement park and the largescale hotel proposal currently under consideration.

The nine-member advisory panel presented its findings on June 12, outlining recommendations for the entire boardwalk while also addressing the future of the vacant 600 Boardwalk property, the former home of Gillian's Wonderland Pier.

man and Fourth Ward Councilman Dave Winslow said the group identified several features it would like to see in a future hotel development, including restaurants, entertainment, parking and boardwalk-facing retail.

He said the committee intentionally avoided recommending a specific height or size for a potential hotel.

"We said it would need to be somewhat in keeping with the neighborhood, and not overshadow the boardwalk to the effect that all you

see is the hotel and nothing else," Winslow said in an interview with Shore Local. "[We] want to keep the flow in the nature of the boardwalk."

The report did not endorse a specific project. However, it suggested that any future development should preserve the character of the boardwalk, include public-facing entertainment and amenities, and avoid overwhelming neighboring properties.

Boardwalk Subcommittee Chair-

The future of the property has been one of Ocean City's most divisive issues since Wonderland Pier closed in October 2024.

Developer eustace Mita, owner of the property, proposed an eight-story, 252-room luxury hotel project that has generated both support and op -

Gillian's Wonderland in 2022

position throughout the community.

Ocean City 2050, a community advocacy group that has opposed Mita's proposed hotel project, said it agrees with the report’s finding that the Boardwalk’s primary challenge is a lack of entertainment and supports gathering additional data before major zoning changes are implemented. The group also expressed appreciation for the report’s emphasis on traditional planning tools.

“We are also encouraged by the recommendation that any development at 600 Boardwalk include substantial Boardwalk-facing entertainment, and be designed so as not to overwhelm neighboring homes,” said Bill Merritt, a member of Ocean City 2050, in a statement to Shore Local. “We remain cautious about allowing residential units above Boardwalk businesses and believe any mixed-use zoning must come with conditions that clearly enhance the entertainment experience and also preserve the iconic low-rise character that makes the Ocean City Boardwalk unique.”

Although the committee's recommendations rejected the scale of Mita's current proposal, the possibility of a smaller mixed-use resort development that includes entertainment, dining, retail and event space was left open.

A report driven by data

Winslow said that the subcommittee relied heavily on research rather than personal opinions when developing its recommendations.

"Our work was very data-driven," he said. "We eliminated the emotional piece of it, and we just [asked], 'What does the data show us as far as visitor trends?'"

The group reviewed parking patterns, beach tag revenue, tourism trends and demographic data while also examining how other resort

communities are adapting to changing visitor expectations.

One major conclusion was the need for additional entertainment attractions along the boardwalk.

"The boardwalk, in and of itself, is an attraction, but we've seen a need for more entertainment on the boardwalk," Winslow said. "That's the primary driver."

According to its report, entertainment should remain the central attraction of the boardwalk experience while future development

incorporates modern amenities and evolving visitor preferences.

Throughout the presentation, speakers emphasized the need for compromise.

"The community realizes that we're not going to have an amusement park there — that will never come back. It's not financially viable, and a large high-rise hotel is not what the community wants, so compromise is somewhere in between," Winslow said.

Now it’s in City Council’s hands

The report described the former Wonderland property as a "once-in-a-generation" development opportunity. Winslow said the site's size and location make it uniquely important to Ocean City's future.

Measuring 300 feet by 300 feet and sitting at the northern edge of the commercial boardwalk district, it’s the largest parcel on the boardwalk and a gateway location capable of influencing future economic activity, Winslow said.

"It serves as an anchor, and now we have the opportunity to really work with either this developer or any other developer and make this ↘Continued on 40

The Ocean City Boardwalk Subcommittee shares its final report.

property something spectacular," Winslow said. "These types of opportunities to basically start from the ground up don't come very often."

very attuned to the emotional connection that a lot of people had."

Winslow acknowledged that disagreement is likely to continue but said the committee focused on what it believed would best serve the city as a whole.

Although much public attention has centered on 600 Boardwalk, Winslow said the committee's assignment was to determine what the future of the entire boardwalk should look like, including that parcel.

"We tried to come up with a compromise plan that really fit in with what is best for Ocean City," he said, expressing concern that ongo -

For that reason, they deliberately avoided taking a position on whether the property should receive an "in need of rehabilitation" designation, a determination that could affect future development options.

The designation remains under separate consideration by City Council, which is expected to decide the issue at a June 25 meeting.

A recent report by City Planner Jennifer Heller concluded that the property meets state criteria for rehabilitation due to structural deterioration and longterm underutilization.

The designation would not approve a specific redevelopment plan or alter existing zoning, but could provide additional options for future development of the site.

For residents who remain divided over the future of the former Wonderland site, Winslow hopes the panel’s work demonstrates an effort to balance competing viewpoints.

"We went in with an open mind," he said. "We were very attuned to residents' feedback, and we were

ing public disputes surrounding the issue could ultimately damage the city's image. "Closing Wonderland has been a very emotional thing for a lot of people, and it's become very, very divisive, and social media has made it worse.”

Boardwalk last summer.

Body of missing Ocean City swimmer recovered, identified

By Cindy Christy Fertsch

The body recovered last week in Sea Isle City has been positively identified as the swimmer who disappeared in the ocean off Ocean City more than a month ago.

Law enforcement agencies, Sea Isle City Police, Ocean City Police, the n ew Jersey State Police and the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office responded June 19 to the area of 72nd Street in Sea Isle City after a deceased male was discovered in the water.

Following an investigation involving the responding agencies and the Southern Regional Medical examiner’s Office, authorities confirmed the victim was the swimmer reported missing May 18 at the 10th Street beach in Ocean City.

as authorities worked to locate the missing swimmer. Despite the largescale operation, no trace of him was found at the time.

The discovery in Sea Isle City came more than four weeks after the swimmer was reported missing. Officials have not released additional details about where or how the body was located. Authorities said the

victim’s family has been notified and requested privacy as they continue to grieve.

The swimmer, a college student visiting Ocean City with friends for a day trip, disappeared after being swept from his boogie board by a wave. The incident prompted an extensive multi-agency search involving local police, the u.S. Coast Guard, n ew Jersey State Police, Ocean City Beach Patrol and numerous emergency responders.

Search efforts continued both on the water and along the shoreline

The identification brings a measure of closure to a case that drew widespread attention across the Jersey Shore and prompted an outpouring of support from residents, visitors and first responders who assisted in the search.

Officials have not indicated whether any additional findings from the investigation will be made public. At the request of the family, authorities are withholding further information at this time.

Photo credit: Jersey Coast Emergency Facebook

The dangers of relying on Monte Carlo when planning retirement

By Eric Reich

Investors who are nearing retirement all want to know one thing: Will my money last as long as I do? This is the question that causes pre-retirees a lot of sleepless nights. n ot knowing the answer to this question also causes many pre-retirees to delay retirement out of fear of possibly running out of money at an age where most people can do little to fix the problem. I don’t think too many folks in their 90s want to go back to work after being retired for a few decades. The reason that this question can be so difficult to answer is due to the fact that there are so many possible random factors that contribute to the final outcome. Trying to answer the question of whether money will last is what drives many pre-retirees to seek financial advice from professionals. In an attempt to help these pre-retirees, many advisors use software to help determine the likelihood of having a “successful” retirement. While there are literally dozens of different types of software to help assess the viability of your retirement, the most common metric used to gauge success or failure is known as a Monte Carlo simulation. Monte Carlo simulations are certainly not limited to the world of finance, but they can be very help -

ful in trying to manage all of the possible outcomes relating to market returns and withdrawal rates. The idea is that they can test all of the possible outcomes to give you a percentage likelihood that you will have a successful outcome of your retirement. There are simply too many variables, such as taxes, inflation, market returns, and life expectancy, to try to estimate what the outcome of your retirement might be. This is what Monte Carlo simulations in retirement try to calculate for you. I am simplifying how Monte Carlo works here because if I didn’t, you’d all fall asleep before the end of this article.

These limitations include, but are not limited to:

1. Monte Carlo assumes that markets are perfectly efficient.

A “confidence score” is what the Monte Carlo simulations are trying to predict for a retiree. A retiree might, for example, have a score of 85% confidence that their plan will work out the way they hoped. So far, Monte Carlo simulations sound pretty good, right? Here is where the issues start. While Monte Carlo can account for a whole host of different variables, there are a few major ones that it cannot account for, and they can be so large as to render the data nearly useless.

As we all know, they are not. It assumes an expected return for different asset classes, etc. We all know that these returns are averages, not constants.

2. Investor behavior cannot be accounted for in Monte Carlo simulations.

This is a major issue. Is it realistic to think that an investor will not panic and sell if the markets crash? History tells us that the majority of investors will, if not panic, at least they will reduce risk in the portfolio.

3. Magnitude of failure

While investor behavior is a major issue in relying on Monte Carlo, the

Servicing Atlantic and Cape May Counties and Beyond

biggest issue, in my opinion, is the magnitude of failure. If I told you that you had a 60% chance of having a successful outcome, would you be confident in your plan? Probably not. Most people try to achieve as high a confidence score as possible. In order for most investors to feel confident, they like to see a score well into the 90-95% range. In order to go from 60% to 95%, you would likely be required to make significant changes to your goals. Here is where I feel Monte Carlo falls short, and it is the reason I do not use it in my retirement projections. What if I told you that of the 40% of the time your plan “failed,” it did so by less than $1,000, 90% of the time? To put it another way, let’s say you lived exactly the way you wanted to live in retirement for 30-plus years, but your goal was to have $1,000,000 at the end of your life. However, in reality, you only had $999,000. Would you say that your retirement plan failed? no, of course not. It’s only $1,000 over your long retirement after all. The problem is that any failure, even by $1, is considered a failure under a Monte Carlo simulation.

While Monte Carlo can be designed to account for any number of variables, the reality is that the specific software used to calculate your likelihood of a successful retirement was designed with a specific set of parameters.

This article is intended to just scratch the surface of what Monte Carlo can and cannot do. It’s more important that you take any retirement confidence score with a grain of salt because it is highly likely to be inaccurate.

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.

What’s happening in Ocean City

Another great summer at the Ocean City Music Pier opens this week with Brandon Tomasello joining the Ocean City Pops for the season opener on Sunday and a cappella favorites Straight n o Chaser opening the Boardwalk Summer Concert Series on Monday.

The Pops will kick off the 2026 season with a “One Man Rat Pack” show at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 28. The “Rat Pack” will come to musical life as Ocean City favorite Brandon Tomasello expertly presents the timeless and unmistakable sounds of the Sinatra era. Come hear the best of Frank, Dean and Sammy as Tomasello sings and swings with the Pops.

Tickets are on sale online at oceancityvacation.com/box-office or in-person at the Ocean City Music Pier Box Office and at welcome centers in town.

Straight no Chaser to perform at the Music Pier June 29.

Auto show and all-girls skate party

More than 300 vintage vehicles will be on display on Saturday, June 27, during the annual Antique Auto Show. The cars will be on the Tabernacle grounds at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., then move up to the Boardwalk for a parade after 2 p.m. For more information, visit jerseycape.aaca.com.

Join the fun for an all-girls Chica De Mayo skate park party at the Ocean City Skate Park on Sunday, June 28. Fun starts at 10 a.m. at the Skate Park, and the event is free to attend. For more details, call 609525-9304.

Weekly family events start in July

A full summer of weekly events will begin in July. The lineup this year will include:

at 6th Street Beach) and Family Nights on the Boardwalk (7-9 p.m.) on Mondays.

● Beach Exercise - Yoga (8 a.m.

The nine-member Straight n o Chaser blends harmonies, hits and humor in their shows, and they have been a popular act in previous visits to the Music Pier. Their 2026 show is billed as a “Beach Bash.” The show is at 7 p.m. June 29. Tickets are available at etix.com and at the Music Pier Box Office.

● Beach Exercise – Low Impact (8 a.m. at 6th Street Beach) and Walking Club (8 a.m. on the Boardwalk from the Music Pier) on Fridays.

n ew weekly events this year include the “America 250: Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show ” on Mondays and the 34th Street Sandcastle Park Summer Entertainment Series on Wednesdays.

● Beach Walks (9 a.m. at 59th Street and Central), Fantastic Tuesdays (10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Asbury Avenue) and Mummers Nights (7-9 p.m. on the Boardwalk) on Tuesdays.

● Beach Exercise – Pilates Yoga (8 a.m. at 6th Street Beach), Beach Walks (6:30 p.m. at 59th Street and Central), and Family Nights on the Boardwalk (7-9 p.m.) on Wednesdays.

● Market Days (10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Asbury Avenue) and Mummers Nights (7-9 p.m. on the Boardwalk) on Thursdays.

Ocean City will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation this summer with a weekly patriotic drone show over the beach and Boardwalk south of Sixth Street. The show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the sky and creating animations that salute America. The 15-minute shows will be held after dusk on seven Mondays from July 6 through Aug. 17. The weekly event is made possible through a $25,000 grant from the Cape May County Board of Commissioners, sponsorships from Boardwalk merchants and city funding. The 34th Street Series will be from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 8 through Aug. 19. events will feature themed entertainment, live performers, face painters and balloon makers.

Tickets on sale for Night in Venice viewing area at Bayside Center

Ticket sales will open at 10 a.m. Wednesday (June 24) for a special viewing area at the Bayside Center for night in Venice.

The Bayside Center at 520 Bay Ave. will be open with family entertainment and activities for the 2026

Brandon Tomasello

n ight in Venice boat parade on July 25. The viewing area will include a picnic spot and snack stand, face-painting, a DJ, and bleacher seating. Ticket prices will be $6 for children (12-and-under) and $10 for adults (with service fees included). The area will remain open and provide a perfect spot to view a spectacular fireworks display after the boat parade.

The boat parade starts at 6:30 p.m. and the fireworks display will go off at approximately 9:30 p.m. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. entertainment will be provided until the parade arrives and will resume until the fireworks start. n o alcohol is permitted, and no parking will be available, but the free shuttle service will be available from remote parking at the Ocean City Municipal Airport, Ocean City Community Center and Shelter Road parking area. Admission is limited, so don’t wait to make your purchase.

contest starts at 6 p.m.

● July 2 — Sand Sculpting Contest: Open to kids, teens, adults and families! Registration is free and begins at 9 a.m. at the Sixth Street Beach. Judging takes place by 11 a.m.

Tickets will be available online at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice, by calling 609-399-6111 or in-person at the Music Pier Box Office, City Hall, the Welcome Center on the n inth Street causeway, and the 46th Street Information Center.

Presenting sponsors for 2026 n ight in Venice are ACM e Markets and OCnJ Watersports.

Registration open for new Miss Night in Venice pageants

n ight in Venice will include two new pageants this year. Little Miss night in Venice and Junior Miss night in Venice will make their debut with a crowning at the Music Pier on July 15, and the queens and their courts will preside over the night In Venice boat parade on July 25. These events will be fun, free and open to anyone ages 8 to 11 (Little Miss n IV) or ages 12 to 15 (Junior Miss n IV). “It’s exciting to see our annual night in Venice celebration continue to grow with new elements each year,” Mayor Jay Gillian said. Registration is now open at ocnj. recdesk.com.

Fourth of July events

Ocean City is planning a great lineup of special events leading up to and throughout Fourth of July Weekend as our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary.

● July 1 — Freckle Contest: Registration is free and begins at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Music Pier. The

● July 2 — Ocean City Pops Free Patriotic Drone Show and Outdoor Concert: The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor concert at 8 p.m. followed by a dazzling patriotic drone show presented by the Friends of the Pops organization above the beach and Boardwalk. Carey Stadium (Sixth Street and Boardwalk). Our legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers.

● July 3 — Broadway Under the Stars!: This outdoor show at Carey Stadium will be performed by the Vince League, a superstar band led by Pops Maestro Vince Lee. Hear the best of Broadway under the stars! Ocean City favorites Shannon Cochran and David Gordon-Johnson will take you on a whirlwind tour of some of the biggest hits of modern Broadway. The concert will be at Carey Stadium, just off the boardwalk between 5th and 6th streets at 8 p.m. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

● July 4 — Bike Parade: Sponsored by the Gardens Civic Association Registration 9 a.m. at the Longport Bridge parking lot. The parade begins at 10 a.m.

● July 4 — Bike Parade: Sponsored by the South OC Improvement

● July 4 — Fourth of July Celebration: Kite-flying competition at 7 p.m. adjacent to Music Pier. A spectacular fireworks display will top off the evening at 9 p.m. The fireworks will be launched from a barge off the moored off the beach at ninth Street.

● July 4 — Ocean City Pops Free Outdoor Concert: The Ocean City Pops will perform a free outdoor concert at 8 p.m. at Carey Stadium. Our legendary local orchestra will perform patriotic classics and audience favorites in honor of our nation’s birthday. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on the field, and there will be seating available in the bleachers.

Association, City of Ocean City and the Chamber of Commerce. Registration 9 a.m. at 40th Street and Asbury Avenue. The parade begins at 10 a.m.

● July 4 — Bike Parade: Sponsored by the Riviera neighborhood. Registration at 11:30 a.m. at the Leyte Lane Park. The parade begins at noon.

● July 5 — Direct from Sweden: The Music of ABBA Performing with the OC POPs: Some of Sweden’s most experienced and talented singers and musicians will deliver the closest ABBA experience you’ll ever get alongside the Ocean City Pops Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. at the Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.

● July 6 — Bruce in the USA: The World's #1 Tribute to Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band!: The concert begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com or the Music Pier Box Office.

Shore Medical Center has expanded its sensory-friendly programs to include respiratory therapy and radiology services, helping neurodiverse patients receive more personalized care in an environment designed to reduce anxiety, support individual sensory needs and improve access to essential healthcare services and patient outcomes.

The expansion was made possible through the generous support of the eagles Autism Foundation, which funded sensory-friendly enhancements in respiratory therapy, and Mike and Jeannie Monichetti, whose philanthropy supported the addition of sensory-friendly accommodations within radiology, to include CT scans and X-rays.

Developed in partnership with experts from the Atlantic County Special Services School District, including occupational and speech therapists, Shore's sensory-friendly program is designed to help neurodiverse patients and others with sensory sensitivities feel more comfortable, supported and understood

throughout their healthcare experience.

The addition of respiratory therapy and radiology builds upon Shore's existing sensory-friendly services, which are available in the Pediatric Care Center (a separate child-friendly eR and inpatient unit), Adult emergency Department and Outpatient Testing for bloodwork and eKGs.

"At Shore, we believe every patient deserves access to care in an environment where they feel safe, respected and supported," said Jill Shultz, R n , MS n , chief nursing officer at Shore Medical Center. "The expansion of our sensory-friendly program allows us to better meet the needs of patients and families who can benefit from additional support in traditional healthcare settings. We are deeply grateful to the eagles Autism Foundation and Mike and Jeannie Monichetti for helping us continue this important work."

The new sensory-friendly radiology program includes a mobile sensory care cart filled with sensory tools and toys, including weighted blankets and noise

canceling head-phones, as well as undersea projections above the imaging area, dimmable lighting, reduced-noise environments, communication tools and radiologic technologists trained in sensory-friendly care. These accommodations are designed to help patients feel more at ease while undergoing X-rays and CT scans.

Sensory-friendly respiratory therapy services feature a mobile sensory care cart, animal-themed nebulizer masks for children, quiet nebulizers, visual communication tools and staff trained in sensory-friendly care. These enhancements help create a more positive experience for patients receiving respiratory treatments and evaluations.

In addition to department-specific accommodations, Shore Medical Center offers resources that help patients and families prepare for healthcare visits before they arrive. Families can participate in pre-visit planning and sensory conferences with trained staff, and take advantage of a reserved sensory-friendly parking space designed to make arriving

at the hospital easier and less stressful.

Shore Medical Center launched its sensory-friendly healthcare initiative to address barriers that can make medical care challenging for individuals with autism, sensory processing differences, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and others who benefit from additional support. The program emphasizes communication, environmental modifications and individualized approaches that help patients successfully navigate healthcare experiences.

"This expansion reflects Shore's commitment to providing care that recognizes and respects the unique needs of every individual," Shultz said. "We're proud to continue building a healthcare environment where patients and families feel welcomed, understood, and empowered throughout their care journey."

For more information about Shore Medical Center's sensory-friendly services, visit www.shoremedicalcenter. org/departments/sensory-friendly-care-programs.

By Sarah Fertsch

TQuestions remain after plane leaving Ocean City crashes

hree men boarded a small plane at Ocean City Municipal Airport on Saturday, expecting to arrive in Maryland before midnight. Instead, the flight ended in a wooded park, leaving investigators searching for answers and families grieving an unimaginable loss.

According to Maryland State Police, the single-engine Piper PA-28 Cherokee went down around 11:30 p.m. near Archer Park in Bowie, Maryland, a residential community about 20 miles east of Washington, D.C. The aircraft had taken off from Ocean City and was headed to Montgomery County Airpark in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

The victims were identified Monday as pilot Yoav Bomrind, 26, of Israel, and passengers David Rabinovich, 19, of Israel, and elad n eidik, 20, of Canada.

All three men were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released additional information about why they were traveling from

South Jersey or the nature of their trip.

e mergency crews were first alerted to the crash by an automated iPhone crash detection notification shortly before midnight. Multiple agencies launched a ground and aerial search before locating the wreckage in a wooded section of the park around 3:45 a.m. Sunday.

Despite the aircraft coming down near homes and a neighborhood playground, no one on the ground was injured.

Investigators believe the flight may have been a training exercise. The aircraft reportedly belonged to a Montgomery County-based flight school, though officials have not confirmed what caused it to go down.

The national Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are leading the investigation, a process that could take months to complete.

The aircraft's final journey began at Ocean City Municipal Airport, a general aviation hub that serves recreational pilots, flight schools and even visitors to the Jersey Shore on occasion. The

airport regularly accommodates small private aircraft traveling throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

Although several high-profile aviation accidents across the country have heightened public concern in recent years, experts say plane crashes remain exceedingly rare.

Federal investigators have not indicated that there were any issues related to the new Jersey airport or the aircraft's departure. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

The crash is also a reminder of the important role small airports play in South Jersey's transportation network. Ocean City Municipal Airport, which sits just minutes from the beach

and boardwalk, serves as a gateway for private pilots, flight training and recreational aviation throughout the Mid-Atlantic.

On any given summer day, small aircraft arrive and depart from the airport, carrying vacationers, business travelers and flight students.

Aviation experts note that while crashes involving private planes often garner significant attention, millions of general aviation flights take place safely across the united States each year.

Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

Make the viral cheese canvas for your next summer party

By Tammy Thornton

Welcome to summer!

If you are anything like me, summertime means an influx of visitors and parties. Fortunately, you will now have the perfect cheese board to wow your guests or hostesses. However, this is not your typical charcuterie, but the viral cheese canvas — a unique, edible work of art that you can create even if you’ve never painted in your life. This fun appetizer will be an instant hit, and your friends will be snapping pictures of this centerpiece that looks almost too good to eat.

You only need a few ingredients, and, as you will see, this cheese and crackers board can be adapted to different themes. First, take a thin, clean, new painting canvas (also called a canvas board) and cover it with cling wrap. You may want to tape the back to secure the wrap if it is not adhering well. Your work of art will look more interesting if the cheeses are different in color or appearance. For my boards, I used goat cheese at

the top, red pepper hummus in the middle, and Boursin cheese at the bottom. Let your budget and your creativity guide you, but choose cheeses that are soft and easy to spread. You could limit it to two different cheeses and alternate them. You will also need crackers that are a bit firm, so that they don’t crumble when your guests scoop the cheese off the board. Pita chips and pretzel crackers are good options. You will also need a small plate stand, which can often be found at dollar stores.

Once you have assembled all your ingredients and wrapped your board, you simply apply the cheese in three different rows on the board. Starting at the top of the board with the small end at the top (portrait style), add your first row of cheese, using about ⅓ of the board. You will want to push the cheese firmly into the board to make sure it sticks. u se the back of a teaspoon to make smooth indentations along the row. next, add your second

row of cheese, overlapping it with the bottom of the first row. Since I wanted contrast with the other cheeses, I used red pepper hummus, which was colorful and spread beautifully. Then, add your bottom layer and, after using the back of the spoon, smooth around the edges of the board. now comes the fun, creative part. You can use edible herbs and flowers from your garden to make your work of art. But of course, you can also simply purchase herbs and fruit from the market for this project. For my

boards, I used lemon thyme that was starting to flower, parsley, little purple violets, honeysuckle flowers, and the blue star flowers from my borage plant. You could also use rosemary, cilantro, halved grapes, tomatoes, or strawberries. now that I have made this a couple of times, my head is full of fun new ideas to try. While my board was on the savory side, I can also envision a sweet board. You could use mascarpone cheese, cream cheese, and different flavors of jam. These could be served with fruit, graham crackers, or cinnamon pita chips. Another cute idea would be to make a board for a baby shower or a child’s birthday party. You could whiz up some cream cheese with blueberries and layer white and blue cream cheese to make a little ocean scene. Then add parsley or cilantro as your “seaweed” and press goldfish crackers into the bottom of the board. You could also add strawberries to cream cheese and make a patriotic red, white, and blue board. The possibilities are endless. You are going to have fun with this one, and I cannot wait to see what our readers come up with. Send pictures of your creations to: shorelocalgardener@gmail.com.

Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.

Edible blue star borage flowers top this cheese canvas that’s almost too pretty to eat.

A teacher's heart in the financial world

Views from the

By Brian Cahill

Shore

One of the rewards of being involved in the community is meeting people whose careers have taken unexpected turns. Through the Somers Point Business Association, I recently met Thomas Farron, a financial professional with n ew York Life Insurance Company whose journey to helping families plan for their financial futures began in an entirely different setting, the classroom.

Before joining n ew York Life, Tom spent nearly two decades as a Spanish teacher. He taught from 2000 to 2019, helping students learn not only a language but also how to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand different cultures. During that time, he earned a doctorate in education from Saint Joseph's university and eventually transitioned into school administration, serving as principal at Holy Spirit High School.

Tom's first year as principal coincided with one of the most challenging periods in modern education: the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to proactive planning and teamwork, Holy Spirit was prepared when schools

suddenly closed in March 2020. The experience reinforced one of the principles that continues to guide him today, prepare for the unexpected.

While many people might see education and financial strategy as completely different careers, Tom sees a direct connection between the two.

"As a teacher, my job was to guide students and help them understand their options," he told me. "I look at financial strategy the same way. My role isn't to tell people what to do. It's to help them understand their choices and make informed decisions that fit their financial goals."

That philosophy was evident when Tom and I sat down to discuss financial strategy. Rather than presenting a single solution, he walked me through multiple options, explaining the benefits and considerations of each.

Whether discussing life insurance, retirement planning, college savings, disability income protection, or longterm care insurance, his approach was educational rather than transactional.

One topic we discussed was the changing landscape of college savings. Many parents wonder whether a traditional college path is still the right choice for their children. Tom explained how today's 529 education

savings plans have become far more flexible than they once were. Funds can now be used for various educational paths, including trade schools, and in certain circumstances can even be rolled into retirement accounts if they aren't needed for education.

What struck me most was how much of Tom's teaching background remains part of who he is. He encourages questions. He believes people shouldn't be afraid to admit what they don't know. Most importantly, he focuses on helping people understand complex topics rather than overwhelming them with jargon.

In many ways, Tom hasn't stopped being an educator. He's simply

changed classrooms.

Whether he's helping a family save for a child's future, preparing someone for retirement, or protecting a business owner against unexpected challenges, Tom's goal remains the same: helping people learn, understand, and make decisions with confidence. To learn more, contact Thomas J. Farren, Sr., Financial Professional with n ew York Life Insurance Company, at (215) 287-1292 or tfarren@ft.newyorklife. com. Registered Representative offering securities through nYLIFe Securities LLC (Member FInRA/SIPC), a Licensed Insurance Agency and a new York Life Company. 3000 Atrium Way, Suite 330, Mt. Laurel, nJ 00854

Sometimes the most valuable lessons don't happen in a school building. Sometimes they happen across a conference table, over a cup of coffee, with someone who still believes that education is the key to making better choices.

Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center. He is also on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association, an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University, and is a founding member of Somers Point-Community First, a local volunteer organization

Thomas Farron, a financial professional with New York Life Insurance Company

Powerboat racing has deep roots in A.C.

By David Weinberg

This weekend’s Atlantic City Sports Offshore Grand Prix powerboat racing marks the continuation of a legacy that stretches back nearly 40 years.

Local beachgoers have been hearing the roar of the boats as they speed through and over waves since the late 1980s, when celebrities such as former “Miami Vice” star Don Johnson and the late Popeye’s Chicken founder “Big Al” Copeland competed in the American Power Boat Association.

One of the top teams was local, however.

Atlantic City native Mac Seelig, sons Jason, Jeff and Jerry Seelig, and former n FL quarterback Joe Theisman dominated the C Class for almost a decade, ultimately winning the World Championship in 1995.

“I loved every minute of it,” Theisman said. “Racing with Mac and his sons was a special time.”

Mac Seelig, who turns 84 in August, got into racing in the mid1980s.

The American Power Boat Association started holding events in

Atlantic City in 1987 at the request of current President Donald Trump, who was seeking ways to promote Trump Castle at the time.

Race weeks were filled with parties and casino events, with Trump hosting celebrities and guests aboard his yacht, Trump Princess, which was docked across the street at Frank S. Farley Marina.

In 1989, Trump outbid Key West, Florida for the right to host the World Championships in Atlantic City.

A rival casino contacted Seelig, a 1960 Atlantic City High School graduate who founded A.C. Coin & Slot at his home in 1978.

“Harrah’s reached out to me because they wanted to compete with Trump in powerboat racing,” Seelig said.

Growing up in the area proved to be a valuable asset in his first race.

The boat he had at the time wasn’t nearly as fast as the others, but he still managed to finish third.

“It was extremely foggy and no one else had any idea where they

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were going,” Seelig said.

n ot long afterward, Seelig was at a trade show in Las Vegas and encountered Theisman, who was signing autographs.

Seelig was seeking someone to serve as a spokesperson and bring attention to his racing team and thought Theismann, a Super Bowl champion and n FL Most Valuable Player during his 12-year career with the Washington Redskins, would be perfect.

He offered Theismann, who grew up in South River, n ew Jersey, a chance to take a ride in his boat. He jumped at the opportunity.

“I had always loved speed,” Theismann said. “I had muscle cars as a kid. My first car was a yellow GTO and I owned seven (Corvettes) when I was playing for Toronto (in the Canadian Football League).

“I went to Atlantic City to visit Mac and as soon as he turned that engine on, I was hooked. We couldn’t race that day because the ocean was too rough. But all I needed was to hear the roar of that engine.”

Despite the encouraging start, Mac and his team didn’t have much early success.

But each race served as a learning experience, a chance to develop the chemistry that is so vital in the ocean.

Mac Seelig was the driver, Jason Seelig was throttleman and Theismann was a navigator.

“We were absolutely terrible at first,” Seelig said. “We finished last a lot. But as time went on, we became pretty good.”

They were also cocky and colorful.

The clothing company Zubaz became as sponsor. The team sported the baggy, bright pants at press conferences and appearances and had the personalities to match.

“ n ot a lot of people liked us,”

Seelig said. “To be honest, we were kind of (obnoxious).”

But they back up the bravado.

Their Harrah’s 777 boat won four straight C-Class national Champions in 1993-96. In 1995, they captured the Offshore Powerboat Racing World Championship in Key West.

Jason Seelig was a two-time Throttleman of the Year. Both Jason and Mac were selected for the 1996 APBA Hall of Champions.

All these years later, Mac still harbors a need for speed. n ow living in Florida, he never turns down an invitation to climb aboard a powerboat for a ride.

Sometimes, he even takes the wheel.

Theismann, now 76, splits his time between Virginia and n ashville. He got rid of his Corvettes long ago, but still feels the occasional need for speed.

“I can’t drive sports cars, anymore,” he said. “And I haven’t been on a boat in a while. But I’ll always remember those days. Being on that powerboat was the thrill of a lifetime.”

Local MLB update

Angels outfielder Mike Trout (Millville High School) is dealing with another injury.

The three-time American League Most Valuable Player is on the 10day injured list with a strained right hamstring.

Trout was enjoying a solid season. He was only batting .234, but has 17 home runs and 36 RBIs.

His status for the All-Star game remains up in the air, though it’s fair to assume he’s hoping to participate, considering it’s being held in Philadelphia.

Reds pitcher Chase Petty (Mainland Regional) threw a scoreless ninth inning last Saturday in a 10-2 victory over the n ew York Yankees. He allowed one hit and no walks with a strikeout.

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.

Atlantic City native Mac Seelig, sons Jason, Jeff and Jerry Seelig, and former NFL quarterback Joe Theisman won the World Championship in 1995.

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Top Weekly Entertainment Picks

By Steffen Klenk

With America’s 250th Anniversary approaching, there are many star-spangled activities taking place in South Jersey, including a fireworks spectacular in Atlantic City, Beachstock in Margate, and cover bands galore at The Deck. Read all about it in our Top Weekly entertainment Picks.

What : Fakefest

Where: The Deck at Golden nugget

When : now – Sunday, June 28 Website: www.goldennugget.com/ atlantic-city/restaurants/the-deckbayfront-bar-restaurant/fakefest32/ More than a dozen of the top east Coast cover bands have converged for a full week of high-energy tribute performances at this free concert

event. Sing along, dance, and relive the greatest hits of all time featuring tributes of Bruce Springsteen, Van Halen, Journey, u2, AC/DC, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, and many more.

What : Atlantic City Sports

Offshore Grand Prix

Where : Atlantic City Beach and Boardwalk

When : Friday, June 26 – Sunday, June 28

Time: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Website: www.raceworldoffshore. com/atlantic-city/

Offshore boat racing takes to the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean for three days of high-energy competition. Spectators will witness the thunder of over 200+ mph racing

along the signature coastline. The action will be best seen along the beach and boardwalk between Ocean Casino and Boardwalk Hall.

Who: Iliza Shlesinger

Where: Borgata event Center

When : Friday, June 26

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : https://borgata.mgm -

resorts.com/en/entertainment/event-center/ iliza-shlesinger.html

Iliza Shlesinger is one of the world’s top comedians, known for entertaining audiences globally through her acclaimed tours and stand-up specials. She has also written and will star in the upcoming romantic dramedy "Chasing Summer."

Who: Lord Huron

Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Resort

When : Friday, June 26

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Website : www.theoceanac.com/ lord-huron

Lord Huron is best known for their cinematic and genre-blending sound,

fusing rock and folk with modern experimentation and an immersive visual experience. Whether you are new to their sound or a dedicated fan, this show will captivate all audiences.

What : north Beach Fireworks

Where : Atlantic City Beach and Boardwalk

When : Friday, June 26

Time: 9 p.m.

Website : www.atlanticcitynorthbeach.com/events/north-beach-atlantic-city-fireworks-2026/ n orth Beach AC will host its annual summer fireworks display. Several viewing spots will be set up along the north end of the boardwalk, including

Steel Pier, Hard Rock, Resorts, Showboat, and Ocean Casino. Prior to the fireworks, attendees will enjoy live music, fantastic specials, and other activities. The event is free to attend.

What : Margate Beachstock

Where: Huntington Avenue Beach

When : Saturday, June 27

Time: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Website: https://margatehasmore. com/event/margate-beachstock/ Margate Beachstock is known as The Planet’s Biggest Beach Party and includes a full day of activities for all ages. This year, attendees will soak up the sun with live music, fantastic food and drinks, surfing, volleyball, cornhole, home run derby, and giveaways, along with a special appearance by the Phillie Phanatic. As the sun begins to set, stay on the beach for a free screening of "The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants," along with a bonfire, and music from iCandee. Admission is free.

Who: James Taylor

Where: Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

When : Saturday, June 27

Time: 7 p.m.

Website : https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ james-taylor

James Taylor and His All-Star Band comes to Atlantic City for a full

evening of timeless classics. Fans will enjoy an unforgettable night of musicianship, storytelling, and classic hits, including “Fire and Rain” and “Caroline in My Mind.”

Who: The Struts

Where: Sound Waves at Hard Rock

When : Saturday, June 27

Time: 9 p.m.

Website : https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ the-struts

The Struts will present a full evening of glam rock energy and an electrifying performance that will have audiences out of their seats. Led by frontman Luke Spiller, these British rockers will showcase their largerthan-life stage presence with arena rock anthems such as “Body Talks,” “Could Have Been Me,” and “Kiss This.”

What : WWe Raw and SmackDown

Where: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

When : Monday, June 29

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Website: www.boardwalkhall.com/ event/detail/wwe-2026

WWe makes its long-awaited return to Atlantic City for an unforgettable night of sports entertainment, with a historic double taping of Monday night Raw and Friday n ight SmackDown. Fans will see top in-ring action from the World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns, undisputed WWe Champion Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, Rhea Ripley, The usos, and more.

Who: Straight no Chaser

Where: Ocean City Music Pier

When : Monday, June 29

Time: 7 p.m.

Website: www.ocnj.us/summerconcertseries

Ocean City’s 2026 Summer Concert Series kicks off this Monday as Straight no Chaser brings their Beach Bash to the shore. The nine-member group blends harmonious vocals, hits and humor to each of their shows. 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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Downbeach-bred singer-songwriter Tom Sless goes from troubadour to ‘Tommy Turbo’

By Chuck Darrow

After he left the world of accounting and decided to devote his life to music, Tom Sless went all-in on the troubadour’s life.

For years, singer-songwriter Sless, 33, who was raised in Margate and Ventnor but is now Dallas-based, traveled the country in his van, booking gigs not only in major cities, but in such off-thebeaten-track locales as McCall, Idaho; Slidell, La.; and Gardner, Mont.

“Obviously the bigger cities were kind of the signposts along the way if I was building the spine of a tour," offered Sless during a recent phone call in advance of his July 1 (5 to 8 p.m.) solo-acoustic performance at Betty’s Seafood Shack in Margate.

“Like in Florida, I would look at Orlando and Tampa and Miami — the big cities, but there are so many miles in-between. I wanted to experience it from the driving perspective. I was a bi-coastal kid, grew up mostly on the east Coast and I would fly over the

‘flyover’ states. And I just felt like this was an opportunity to explore parts of the country I'd heard about.

“I only knew stories of all these states and just didn't know anything about them, didn't know what was there. And I figured if there was a bar to play at, well, at least there's something there for me to hold onto and then see what else was out there.”

love. When we started working on this new record and thinking about it, I [realized] after all these shows how much I enjoyed performing, how much I now have lived life as a performing artist. And that persona onstage felt more real than ever.

“And so, we built a bit of lore and a story around a character called ‘Tommy Turbo,’ who is, of course, loosely based on my persona on stage.

“The album is a bit of a concept album with its own kind of ‘Ziggy Stardust’ vibe to it,” he added, re -

Introducing Tommy Turbo

To this point, Sless’ sonic blueprint has comfortably fit into the singer-songwriter/ country-rock/Americana side of things. His 2020 debut album, “California Dream,” and 2024’s sophomore effort, “Heartland Ballerina,” are comprised of tracks that would not be out of place on a playlist focusing on artists like Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne and Bruce Springsteen in his quieter, more introspective mode. But these days, he’s taking a different route by getting inspiration from more theatrical rockers.

“I was always really drawn to someone like a [Jimi] Hendrix, a Jim Morrison, Freddie Mercury, Roger Daltry from the Who — front people who had all eyes on them. And some of that was because when I was in high school, I would be nervous playing the trumpet. But whenever I was on stage with my guitar and just being the front man, it never felt scary,” he explained.

“And it just made me see myself in those shoes. And as I started getting into it, I just felt really comfortable being the leader of a group. I kind of always have leaned into some heightened theatricality.”

Taking a cue from Bowie

As such, he continued, he has created a character who will, if all goes according to plan, be introduced on his third LP which he plans to release later this year.

“‘Tommy Turbo’ is the name for the alter ego that essentially emerges when I'm on stage,” he offered. “Performing has always been my first

ferring to David Bowie’s legendary 1972 record that tells the story of a messiah-like extraterrestrial rock star who comes to earth only to wind up being murdered by his fans.

According to Sless, who recently released the LP’s first single, “Don’t Save My Soul” (available on all streaming platforms) the “Turbo” concept is a direct result of his previous experiences.

“I don't think Turbo emerges without giving the persona the chance to emerge over the course of those years on the road,” he reasoned.

For Sless, the forthcoming “Tommy Turbo” album will be the perfect capstone on a trilogy that documents his career to this point.

“It’s almost like the first album, ‘California Dream,’ represents my diving into music. ‘Heartland Ballerina’ represents the 'van journey.' And now, ‘Tommy Turbo’ is the next era culminating from all of that.”

Betty’s Seafood Shack is located at9315 Amherst Ave. Admission is free.

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

Craig Youngblood

Zach Adams

THURSDAYS NOW - SEPTEMBER 3*

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

SUNDAYS JULY 5 - SEPTEMBER 6

Get Ready for the ultimate tribute to the 70’s & 80’s, featuring soft rock such as Hall & Oates, Michael McDonald, Kelly Loggins, Christopher Cross, Steely Dan, Toto, icons of a sound that deﬁned an era. Ticket purchase required. *No show on July 9. Ticket purchase required.

FOUR SHOWS SEPTEMBER 17 - 20 SEPTEMBER 24 - 27 JULY 24 & 25

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ENTREES DESSERTS

CREAMY MUSHROOM SHORT RIB 25

Braised short rib in a creamy beef mushroom sauce served with mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus.

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Mango glazed salmon served over mashed potatoes and sauteed garlic spinach.

SURF & TURF 30

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BACON WRAPPED MAHI 22

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BUFFALO CHICKEN ALFREDO 20

Buffalo grilled chicken breast served over fresh fettuccine in a creamy bleu cheese sauce.

Atlantic City Headliners

Thursday, June 25

Magical Mystery Doors

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Friday, June 26

Lord Huron

▶8:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Iliza Shlesinger

▶8 p.m.

Borgata event Center

Jesse & Joy

▶7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Vishal Mishra

▶8:30 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Saturday, June 27

James Taylor

▶7:30 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

The Struts

▶9 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Joe Bonamassa

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

The Police Experience

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Sunday, June 28

80’s Live

▶4 p.m.

The Concert Venue at Harrah’s

Friday, July 3

Stavros Halkias

▶9 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Saturday, July 4

The Disco Biscuits

▶8 p.m.

Borgata event Center

Let’s Groove Tonight: Earth, Wind & Fire Ultimate Tribute

Tom Papa

▶9 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Russell Peters

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theatre at Caesars

DeRay Davis

▶8 p.m.

The Concert Venue at Harrah’s

Sunday, July 12

Jeff Dunham

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Grease the Musical

▶3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Friday, July 17

Adam Lambert

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Weird Al Yankovic

▶8 p.m.

Borgata event Center

Lucas Zelnick

▶7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, July 18

Dirty Heads and 311

▶5:30 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Quincy Jones Experience feat.

Dave Damiani & No Vacancy

Orchestra

CREME BRULEE 9

NY CHEESECAKE 7

COBBLER DU JOUR 7

MONDAY SNOW CRAB 38

TUESDAY

12 oz PRIME RIB 25

FRIDAY

LOBSTER TAIL 42

LIVE MUSIC THURS & SAT

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

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Sunday, July 5

Boat House Row

▶4 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Friday, July 10

Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Tom Papa

▶9 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, July 11

The Guess Who

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Dusty Slay

▶7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Desi Banks

▶8 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom

Derek Hough: Symphony of Dance

Encore

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theatre at Caesars

Sunday, July 19

Buju Banton & Stephen Marley

▶7 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

The Used

▶8 p.m.

Borgata event Center

Photo credit: Jeff Dunham Facebook

Brandon Tomasello opens Ocean City Pops season with ‘One-Man Rat Pack’ spectacular

Acclaimed vocalist and entertainer Brandon Tomasello will open the 2026 Ocean City Pops season with his highly anticipated "One-Man Rat Pack" concert on Sunday, June 28, at the historic Ocean City Music Pier. The Rat Pack will come to life musically on stage as local favorite Tomasello presents the timeless and unmistakable sounds of this remarkable musical era.

Celebrating the timeless music, charm and swagger of the legendary Rat Pack era, Tomasello will bring the unforgettable sounds of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. to life in a dynamic solo performance backed by the renowned Ocean City Pops. The evening will be an entertaining blend of classic hits, storytelling and vintage Vegas-style showmanship.

The concert officially launches the Ocean City Pops' 2026 summer season, offering audiences a journey through the Great American Songbook. According to the Pops’ website, the performance will feature "class,

reates the atmosphere of the Sinatra era with his signature vocal style and engaging stage presence.

A favorite among Jersey Shore and Philadelphia audiences, Tomasello is regarded for his interpretations of swingtime favorites and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages. For his "One Man Rat Pack" show,

Tomasello will perform hits such as Sinatra’s “Fly Me To The Moon,” Martin’s “ everybody Loves Somebody” and Davis’ “The Candy Man,” among others.

unique opportunity to hear this music the way it was intended with a full orchestra.

Tomasello secured the arrangements himself for his standout tribute to these three iconic entertainers. Local musician and band leader ed Vezinho, of egg Harbor Township, also specially arranged some tunes for Tomasello’s performance.

"I am so excited to be back performing with Conductor Vince Lee and the Ocean City Pops — and even more ecstatic to help them kick off their summer season," said Tomasello. "To perform and share these songs, most in their original arrangements, with this orchestra is something that I know audiences will cherish. And I can’t wait to debut ed Vezinho’s arrangements which are sure to knock some socks off.”

In a rare treat for audiences, several of these Rat Pack hits will be performed in their original arrangements, providing ticketholders the

The concert takes place at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at the Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk in Ocean City. Tickets are $27 and $32 at ShowPass.com. Tomasello’s new album “The Lost Sinatra-Basie” will be for sale at the show.

Caesars gives ‘The Hook’ the hook. What happens next?

By Chuck Darrow

Last week, Caesars Atlantic City announced that the news that “The Hook,” the groundbreaking comedy-variety show at Caesars Atlantic City, will close on Sept. 6.

When it debuted three Junes ago in its specially-built theater located in what was the Depression-era Warner Theater movie palace (at a reported cost of $40 million — 90 percent of which went into creating the venue), it was the first — and still only — local production following the Las Vegas blueprint of a year-round, weeknight performance schedule.

More skeptical (realistic?) observers predicted that the adults-only program wasn’t going to do a lot of winter-weeknight business, despite it being a lot of fun and the fact that it was housed in an intimate, 420-capcity state-of-the-art theater in which even the farthest seat from the elongated, vertical stage is probably no more than 50 feet from the action.

Besides the always-slow winter months, another issue was that

the AyCee casino market isn’t large enough to support a multi-year run of a presentation that essentially never changes (to be sure, “The Hook” regularly changed cast members, but they were always the same type of acts). Perhaps that sameness was a problem; unlike Vegas, which annually has tens of millions of visitors from all over the nation and world, the local market is far more geographically limited.

Is it possible that ‘Hook’ impresario Ross Mollinson and his minions at his Las Vegas-based production company Spiegelworld didn’t do enough research into the Atlantic City market? After all, Our Town’s history since the expansion of legal gaming in surrounding states suggests the same show can’t run for longer than six months (pre-2006, it was rare, but not unheard of: For instance, the “An evening at La Cage”

drag revue at Bally’s Park Place ran multiple nights a week pretty much unchanged for 11 years). Maybe things would have worked out better had two entirely different productions rotated on an everysix-months basis.

But enough of the post-mortem. What is important now is: What comes next?

n ot surprisingly, Caesars execs haven’t offered any forward-looking hints.

So far, the only official word from the midtown gambling den is the following statement:

“We’re proud of the distinctive entertainment and dining experiences these concepts have brought to our guests, and we thank the talented teams who made them so memorable. Guests still have a full summer ahead to enjoy both.

“This transition marks the start of a new chapter, reflecting our continued focus on innovation and delivering fresh, compelling experiences to The Boardwalk and beyond. With new developments on the horizon, including the upcoming Caesars Beach Club, we remain focused on delivering exciting reasons for guests to return again and again.”

So, in the absence of hard info, let’s do some speculating.

As noted, The Hook (the room shares the show’s name) is a marvelous performance space. As such it would be a shame for it to be permanently shuttered.

The complex’s size and amenities (including Superfrico, which Spiegelworld famously bills as a “psychedelic Italian” eatery) make it special and if, as could happen, the gambling den’s management doesn’t want another production show, it still could be successful.

There is a dearth of rooms this size that are suitable for up-and-coming acts, comedians in particular. In fact, it would be perfect for a (weekends-only) comedy club showcasing artists who have outgrown smaller chuckle huts, but aren’t quite ready to sell 1,000-1,500 tickets at places like the Music Box inside Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and Sound Waves at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.

If bands were included, the long, narrow runway-like stage would have to be removed. This would eliminate

some of the space’s intimacy, but it would still be a great place for live music — and likely add seating/standing room capacity.

n onetheless, there’s no reason production shows couldn’t thrive there, especially on a limited schedule; locally-based producer Allen Valentine, whose “’80s Live” finishes up its current every-Sunday-afternoon run at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City this weekend, has enjoyed years of success with the once-a-week strategy at various AyCee properties.

There is another type of ongoing program that could work without any physical changes to the space — and which would solve the “same-old, same-old” issue: An improvisational-comedy troupe along the lines of Chicago’s Second City or the Los Angeles-and- n ew-York-based u pright Citizens Brigade. Because of the nature of improv, no two shows can be identical, thus giving the public a reason for repeat visits.

Obviously, we’ll eventually learn what the plans are (plans, incidentally, that are likely to be affected by the impending sale of the Caesars entertainment conglomerate to Fertitta entertainment, which owns Golden nugget Atlantic City). But what’s certain is that the venue is too valuable an asset for it to disappear. Here’s hoping it will remain a part of the local entertainment landscape for years — and decades — to come.

Celebrating the semiquincentennial

not surprisingly, Our Town’s gambling dens are not letting the nation’s 250th birthday pass unnoticed.

For instance, Ocean Casino Resort is marking the day with daytime and nightlife parties that include an 11 a.m. set by DJ duo Two Friends at the HQ2 Beachclub. AR/CO will also perform.

Resorts Casino-Hotel will honor the nation’s founding in a most American way: Winding up its $250,000 Stars & Stripes Sweepstakes. In addition, the earth, Wind & Fire tribute band Groove Tonight is scheduled to perform. And the festivities conclude with the annual north Beach fireworks display beginning at 9:30 p.m.

And speaking of bombs bursting in air, at the other end of the Boardwalk, Tropicana (which will offer pyrotechnics every other Saturday through the summer) will end the night with a 10 p.m. fireworks extravaganza.

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

The ultimate Sunday Shore Thing: Sexy plates, small prices served up at Resorts’ Bubbles & Brunch

By Scott Cronick

For years, Resorts Casino Hotel has been the undisputed Atlantic City brunch champion.

Capriccio, the longest running casino restaurant in the city and one of the most classically beautiful dining rooms in the city, has hosted some of the best brunch experiences in the city.

But, like other great brunches that once were plentiful in the city, Capriccio’s buffet brunch disappeared after Covid to only resurrect itself for seasonal or special appearances like easter and Mother’s Day.

Thankfully, Resorts made a stellar move forward for all of us craving a destination Sunday brunch option in Atlantic City when it launched Bubbles & Brunch at Capriccio earlier this month, serving 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

weekly. Plus, Resorts is offering free valet and self-parking for all brunch attendees.

Adapting to modern times and filling a huge void in the Sunday brunch scene, Bubbles & Brunch features many of the dishes we all loved at Capriccio’s buffet brunches in a new a la carte format while adding some stellar items and topping it all with an unlimited mimosas and Bloody Mary option for just 15 bucks.

“We’re very excited about this new offering, Bubbles & Brunch,” said Director of Food and Beverage Jeff Wray, a giant in the Atlantic City brunch scene who has overseen other glorious brunch incarnations in the city’s history, most notably Caesars Atlantic City’s buffet brunch at the now-closed nero’s. "Chef David (Wong) and Chef Robert (Levinson) and the culinary team have made an exceptional menu with some appetizer courses, some traditional breakfast things, some lunchy things, a great selection of entrees, some Italian options, some great choices of sides and, of course, desserts. It’s wonderful. It’s in our classic venue, Capriccio, with the veranda, and it’s just off to a great restart, and we’re happy to have it back.”

The Vibe

and the veranda, and people just seem to love it.”

Bubbles & Brunch is a perfect compromise for those longing for the more traditional buffet brunch. The a la carte menu offers a more contemporary approach to brunch, and the multiple seating options offer a setting for everyone.

The Menu

The food, of course, is the main attraction, and executive Sous Chef and Capriccio Room Chef David Wong is preparing some fantastic cuisine that scratches all the itches for a great Sunday brunch.

Capriccio’s setting is perfect for a Sunday brunch vibe. If you prefer a traditional brunch setting, guests can sit inside and enjoy the acclaimed restaurant’s classic Venetian murals, white tablecloths, air conditioning, large banquette booths and quieter atmosphere. But, I strongly advise to sit on the balcony that oversees the Boardwalk, Steel Pier wheel, beach and ocean while DJ Joe Castro spins a mix of retro and modern music while you take in the summer ocean breeze.

“Joe is a wonderful addition,” Wray said. “We have the music piped through the beautiful dining room

“We were trying to envision how we could reincarnate a different version of brunch," Wong said. “Some people want something light. Some people want something heavy. Some people want something traditional. Some people want something exciting. So, we considered all of that and try to have something for everyone.”

Brunch is always fun when you can get a bunch of people together and start the day sharing items like their antipasti full of cured meats and imported cheeses; lamb lollipops with haystack potatoes, fig reduction and pomegranates; the house-cured lox platter with eggs, capers, red onion and bagels; and my favorite new dish, the reimagined take on burrata toast with strawberry agrodolce, pistachio and toasted brioche.

“I wanted to turn this into something very light and fresh, maybe a little sexy on the plate,” Wong said. “So, I take this very nice brioche and

pan sear it with some butter — mimicking almost like a French toast — and I make this strawberry agrodolce. Then I take stracciatella, which is the curd that’s inside a burrata, mix that all together, and it’s heaven. I’m trying to break something out, make it electrifying for somebody to say, ‘Wow, that was different! That was light. That was unique.’ And I’ll change that up as the summer goes on, and the blueberries are out.”

On the traditional side, entrees include a build your own omelet option, eggs Benedict, a T-bone pork chop with wild mushrooms and potato puree, the best-selling steak and eggs with a beautiful prime sirloin and eggs cooked any way, and the best Belgian waffle on the planet made with a waffle iron that nicely stamps the Resorts logo in the center.

“We’re just trying to bring some of the favorite hits, but at the same time, we’re going to have fun,” Wong said. “My waffle is the lightest thing that you can have. It doesn’t sit in the bottom of your stomach. It comes with maple syrup, fresh berries, butter and fresh whipped cream. The key is to make that waffle batter fresh every morning. That’s why it’s so light.”

For those looking for the Italian experience, Capriccio has that covered with its tagliatelle al frutti di mare with shellfish, parmesan andherbs; the cavatelli verde with Italian sausage, broccolini, basil pesto and breadcrumbs; and the signature meatball sandwich with provolone and ricotta on a toasted, seeded French roll.

There’s also desserts and pastries made in house, including a seasonal sorbet, blueberry buckwheat scones, a variety of danish, a n ew York-style crumb cake, banana bread and more.

If you want something really light and healthy, check out the fresh fruit with honey yogurt, berries, walnuts, maple drizzle and flax seed.

The Cocktails

In addition to the $15 all-you-candrink mimosas and Bloody Marys,

make sure you check out the Bubbles & Brunch cocktail menu, which is whimsical, creative and delightful for a Sunday overlooking the ocean in the summer.

to other casinos. We’re comparing ourselves to rooftop brunches in Philly and other local restaurants. How are we going to bring people here and keep them here? We looked at local prices. We looked at other competitors in this market. We’re all about the locals.”

“And with the free parking, we surely want the locals to come in here,” Wray added. “We don’t want to price them out.”

If you’re looking for a perfect way to start your Sunday, I can’t recommend Capriccio’s Bubbles & Brunch more.

With stellar food and a setting like this, Capriccio’s brunch should be

packed every Sunday. There’s nothing else like it in the city.

Places like this are what you come visit the shore for.

(Capriccio’s Bubbles & Brunch is offered 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays at Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. Reservations are strongly recommended by calling 609-340-6300 or go to OpenTable.com. Go to ResortsAC.com.)

Scott Cronick is an award-winning journalist. He hosts a daily radio show – "Off The Press with Scott Cronick" - 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.

The signature Aperol Spritz collection features the Italian sparkle with twists that include Pina Colada and vanilla peach versions, plus there’s espresso and coffee cocktails like the espresso martini and classic Irish coffee.

Garden and tropical cocktails include a rosemary paloma, coconut mojito, passion fruit sunrise and strawberry basil Rossini.

The Price is Right

Another thing this a la carte Bubbles & Brunch experience provides is the removal of a $60 to $70 brunch price tag, plus Resorts is also pricing this menu very fairly. Add in the free parking, and I can go as far as saying that Resorts’ brunch is a great value, something hard to find these days, especially in casinos.

n o appetizer is priced above $24; no entrée over $34; and most are priced in the teens. e xamples include $16 for the house-cured lox platter, $17 for eggs Benedict, $16 for the meatball sandwich, $24 for the cavatelli, $15 for the waffle, $17 for the burrata toast, and $34 for the prime sirloin and eggs.

“We were talking about it and didn’t want to price it comparing it

A Somers Point staple: Fitzpatrick’s Deli delivers on flavor and service

By Holly Martin

For decades, Fitzpatrick’s Deli has been a staple in Somers Point, serving up hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and the kind of hometown hospitality that keeps generations of families coming back. For many locals, myself included, a trip to Fitzpatrick’s is more than just a meal; it's a tradition.

Growing up, I can remember enjoying a bacon, egg, and cheese on a croissant on Sunday mornings before begging my dad for one of their famous chocolate chip cookies on the way out. Years later, not much has changed. When my family is craving delicious food and friendly service, Fitzpatrick’s Deli is still one of our first choices.

Summer weekends in Somers Point can be hectic. Between

beachgoers heading to Ocean City and visitors exploring the Jersey Shore, finding a place to eat and a place to park can be challenging. Fortunately, Fitzpatrick’s offers a spacious parking lot with additional parking across the street, making it an easy stop before a day at the beach.

During our recent visit, we were greeted warmly and seated right away. A quick look at the menu and daily specials was all it took for everyone at the table to make their decision. One of the best things about Fitzpatrick’s? Breakfast is served all day, making it easy to satisfy both breakfast and lunch cravings.

weighed down.

My mother opted for her go-to favorite: a classic cheeseburger. Cooked perfectly and topped with melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato, it was everything a diner-style burger should be. One bite in, she was hooked. In fact, she's still talking about it days later.

While waiting for our check, we took a moment to admire one of the things that makes Fitzpatrick’s so special: the old-school deli counter in the back. Stocked with deli favorites, baked goods, and those legendary chocolate chip cookies, it feels like stepping back into a classic neighborhood delicatessen. It's the perfect place to grab lunch to-go before heading to the beach, boating, or exploring the Shore.

My husband and I both gravitated toward one of the breakfast specials: the egg white veggie omelet served with turkey bacon, toast, and fresh fruit. The generous portion arrived packed with mushrooms, peppers, spinach, and feta cheese. Paired with rye toast and a side of sweet, ripe fruit, it was a filling and flavorful meal that didn't leave us feeling

Many families throughout Atlantic County have grown up eating at Fitzpatrick’s Deli. When longtime owner Jim Fitzpatrick announced his retirement, locals were thrilled to learn that the business would remain in the family. Today, his son is carrying on the tradition, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the quality food, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional service that have made Fitzpatrick’s a Somers Point favorite for decades.

Whether you're looking for an allday breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a taste of local tradition, Fitzpatrick’s Deli remains one of the best places to eat in Somers Point.

Holly Martin has been immersed in the media world since 2012. She has also hosted as a DJ and created the blog SNJ Sober Party Girl.

A perfectly cooked cheeseburger topped with melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato proves why this classic lunch favorite remains a customer favorite at Fitzpatrick's Deli in Somers Point.

The egg white veggie omelet special at Fitzpatrick's Deli is loaded with mushrooms, peppers, spinach, and feta cheese, and served with turkey bacon, toast, and fresh fruit—a hearty breakfast that's available all day long.

Absecon Concerts in the Park

▶Sunday, June 28, 7 p.m.

Heritage Park

Free Outdoor Concerts

enjoy an evening of blues rock featuring TK and the Howlers. Bring a chair and blanket and enjoy a rockin’ good time. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.

Brigantine Summer Concert Series

▶Wednesday, July 8, 7 p.m.

Brigantine Community Center Side Lawn, 265 42nd Street

Join the Brigantine Community, education, and Recreation Department next Wednesday for their outdoor concert series, featuring a Beatles tribute by Beatle Soul. Bring a beach chair or blanket. In the event of inclement weather, the show will be moved to the Brigantine Community School Auditorium. The Brigantine Summer Concert Series will be held on Wednesdays throughout the season.

Jazz on the Beach Concert Series

▶Thursday, Aug. 6, 7 p.m.

Kennedy Plaza, Atlantic City

Mark your calendars and join the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation for their annual Jazz on the Beach Concert Series, featuring an eclectic lineup of acclaimed jazz artists and musicians.

Legacy Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point

▶Friday, June 26, 7 p.m.

William Morrow Beach, 800 Bay Ave.

The Legacy Beach Concerts in Somers Point continues this Friday with an evening of Jersey Shore rock

'n’ roll as The Dane Anthony Band brings an evening of party dance music to the sand. Visit www.somerspointbeachconcerts.com for the full summer lineup.

Ventnor Summer Beach Jam

▶ Saturday, June 27, 6:30 p.m.

n ewport Avenue Beach

Join Ventnor City as they celebrate the summer season and end of school with a free concert on the beach. enjoy live music by Kick it Out as they present a tribute to Heart. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, enjoy delicious food and check out the vendors starting at 5:30 p.m.

Photo by John Loreaux

South Jersey representation in pop culture

By Sarah Fertsch

Let’s consider the geographic layout of our neck of the woods. We have Philadelphia, home of cheesesteaks and eagles fans. Then, we have the Jersey suburbs of Philly, like Cherry Hill, Camden and Collingswood. The Pinelands lay between those towns and the Jersey Shore. And we all know the Jersey Shore is more than big hair and partying. How is the Jersey Shore represented in pop culture? Here are a few examples:

Silver Linings Playbook (Book and Movie)

The story surrounds Pat Peoples, a mentally ill man who falls in love with Tiffany, another person struggling with loss and trauma. After leaving a mental health facility, Pat moves back in with his parents in Collingswood. He and his friends visit Ocean City. The author Matthew Quick describes the n inth Street Bridge, the Wonderland Ferris Wheel, and spending time on the beach. Pat, as he reintegrates into normal life, celebrates his identity as a South Jersey resident (watching eagles games, visiting Philadelphia, and eating cheesesteaks).

The Wonder Years (Pop-punk Band)

The alternative, poppunk band has roots in Philadelphia, but the lead singer has fond memories of spending summers in Ocean City. In fact, the band has a song, “I Don’t Like Who I Was Then,” that recounts an experience the lead singer had at Shore

Boardwalk Empire (Television Show)

Rosalind Cash (Actress)

She was an American singer and actress, and was born in 1938 in Atlantic City. Cash graduated with honors from Atlantic City High School. She performed in "The Cosby Show," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "The Golden Girls," "L.A. Law," and films such as "The Omega Man" and "Wrong is Right." She received an emmy Award nomination for her work in "Go Tell It On The Mountain." Cash passed away in 1995.

Memorial Hospital in Somers Point. The Wonder Years describe their sound as perfect for “a kid from the suburbs with a whole lot of feelings.”

The HBO series is set primarily in Atlantic City, and follows n ucky Johnson, the mayor-gangster who orchestrates various schemes during the Prohibition era. The show features characters such as the sheriff of Atlantic County and other gangsters from Atlantic City and beyond. The show was nominated for 57 emmy awards, winning 20. Watch this suspenseful show to learn more about the rich history of Atlantic City and the cultural seed that bloomed into our home today.

Grace Kelly (Actress)

The Kelly family owned a beach house in Ocean CIty on 26th and Wesley Avenue. Grace starred in “High noon,” an Alfred Hitchcock film that won four Academy Awards. She also acted in the following films: “The Bridge to Toko-Ri”, “Rear Window,” “The Country Girl,” and “Rear Fire.” Kelly passed away in 1982, after earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Can you think of more? Let us know. email shorelocalnews@gmail.com

Three decades of music and harmonies

By Delaney Crawford

For over 30 years now, local band Hawkins Road has been serving up music, harmonies, good vibes and gigs.

What started out as a simple, for fun writing project between two friends at a local Denny’s has transformed into a longtime local favorite band that continues to play gigs and entertain throughout our area.

In 1992, Brian Conover and Jim Glenn got together to write some country tunes. At the time, the pair were both doing different things, playing with bands and such, and they got together to try out some writing with a focus on country music.

cians, and took the gig.

This was during the height of the pop-country era, and as they were playing around and seeing what they could come up with, a call for a gig looking for an all-country band came up. Conover and Glenn jumped at the chance, grabbed a few more musi -

n ow, decades later, the duo still continues to play together under a different name, Hawkins Cove. While maintaining their country roots, they have since morphed into more of a yacht rock, reggae and summertime music band as well.

While the genre, lineup and name have changed over the years, Hawkins

Cove, along with Conover and Glenn, has at its core remained a local band that aims to please crowds and play the best they can at any gig.

The switch to more tropical and summertime tunes happened when they got a weekly gig at The Deck at the Golden nugget. In the beginning, it was strictly country music. They did “Two-Stepping Tuesdays” before The Deck was even a thing. Back in 1992, they were playing inside Golden n ugget at the Diva’s Lounge, which eventually led to them still performing at The Deck today.

n ow, over 20 summers later, they’re still playing at The Deck, this time for “Tropical Tuesdays.” The venue has evolved, and so has the band, but the switch from country

to reggae and island tunes wasn’t challenging for the group at all.

“We’re all musicians who know music. We played weddings for years, so we know all kinds of music. We’re familiar with the styles and genres, so it was really about seeing what we already knew and adding some more tunes in to fill out the set,” Conover said.

“ everyone in the band reads music and knows the genres, so it’s definitely not a one-trick pony,” Glenn added.

Anyone who goes to see Hawkins Cove play can expect yacht rock, Jimmy Buffett, some reggae music and plenty of summertime favorites. Think good-time, summer vibes music that you can dance and jive to.

The duo shared that making their set list is all about reading the room. They want to throw in a little variety, please everyone and feel out the crowd.

“It’s one thing to play music and have people dance and have a good time, but for us, people may not

from here who know each other and know the music well. While they have recurring and rotating musicians who fill in for different gigs, the three core

known for their incredible harmonies together.

“When the three of us sing together, we almost breathe together,”

new old song the other day,” Glenn said. “There are some songs that just go over well, and over the years, since we’ve been doing this long enough, you kind of know what works and what a crowd is into. You learn your audience, so there are nights where we don’t play certain songs, and there are nights where we do. That’s been a constant growth experience for the band.”

Despite being a part of other bands and projects through the years, both Conover and Glenn think of Hawkins Cove as something special.

“Just singing with the other guys is my favorite, the harmony,” Conover said. “I’ve played with lots of other musicians and bands, but with this group, it’s the vocal harmonies we sing together that make it more special.” That happens with no band, Glenn added.

Hawkins Cove currently plays every other Tuesday night at the Golden n ugget Deck. You can also check their website, hawkinsroad.com, for

Blues guitarist-vocalist Tab Benoit coming to AC Boardwalk

The last time the Houma, Louisiana-based Benoit performed in southern n ew Jersey was in May 2022 at the exit Zero Jazz Festival in Cape May.

Opening for Benoit on this leg of the tour is Sgt. Splendor, featuring road-tested rockers Kate Vargas and eric McFadden.

"You could certainly feel (Tab's) '72 Telecaster, plugged straight into his amp, scream, cry, laugh and love from the first note," wrote Atlanta Concert Reviews' Andrew Agresta in a mid-April 2026 review. "(Benoit's) entire performance was driven by feel. n o setlist, no rules, just what felt right. The way he plays is encompassing, and being in the room felt therapeutic."

As for the band, Agresta enthused, "They were completely locked in. It was hard to believe that wall of sound was coming from just three musicians."

"I Hear Thunder" marked Benoit's triumphant return to releasing new music, reaching n o. 1 on the

Billboard Blues Chart in September 2024. The following year, Benoit won four Blues Blast Music Awards: Rock Blues Album (I Hear Thunder), Blues Band, Male Blues Artist and electric Guitarist of the Year.

The victories served as recognition from Benoit's peers for a longtime musician whose influence continues to grow.

Benoit's journey began in 1992

with a radio hit from his debut album, " nice and Warm." Since then, he has earned multiple Blues Music Awards and four Grammy Award nominations.

Beyond the music, Benoit is celebrated for his environmental activism, particularly his efforts to raise awareness about Louisiana wetlands and coastal erosion. He has seamlessly intertwined his artistic accomplishments with a commitment to environmental advocacy, ensuring his legacy extends beyond the stage and into the landscape that inspires his music.

Benoit does more than play the blues. He honors the genre's rich traditions while helping shape its future.

"Louisiana's Living Legend"

Bayou blues guitarist-vocalist

Tab Benoit has embarked on his yearlong 2026 "Soul of the Swamp" Tour, with a local performance scheduled for Tony Mart's AC Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk at Kennedy Plaza, 2498 Boardwalk, on Wednesday, July 8. Showtime is 7 p.m. Admission is free and open to all ages. For information, call 609-653-6069 or visit www.tonymart.com.

The Shore Starts Here

Enjoy a cool spritz for the nation’s anniversary

Drink Up By David Setley, Passion Vines

In beautiful Southern n ew Jersey, Independence Day means flip-flops, beach days, family picnics, evenings on the porch, and…traffic. When I was a child, the holiday also meant afternoons at the pool or playing in the backyard with my siblings, spritzing each other with the garden hose to cool off and sliding on a slip and slide. A few years ago, when my wife and I vacationed in Italy, we became entrenched in the Italian tradition of “taking a Spritz” to beat the heat. A far cry from the garden hose, the Spritz is a refreshing beverage, ideal for summer months. Venice claims to be the birthplace of the Spritz. While that claim is contested by other parts of n orthern Italy, one thing is agreed upon: Spritzes were introduced by Austrian workers temporarily on assignment in n orthern Italy. Italian wines were stronger and more full-bodied than

Austrians were accustomed to drinking, so they spritzed the wine. Spritz, the Austrian slang word for soda water, simply meant adding soda water to lighten the wine. Voila, the wine spritzer was born. Italians took things a step further, adding soda water and Prosecco to bitters or aperitifs to create the refreshing summer drink now known as the Spritz. What started in the northern regions has spread throughout Italy. When we were there, there was not a single drinking establishment that didn’t offer a variety of Spritzes on its menu. Like all good researchers do, I think we tried them all!

The two most common Italian Spritzes are the Aperol Spritz and the Campari Spritz. Both are quite simple to make, and the ingredients are easy to find. The exact recipes vary between establishments, but my favorite is the 3-2-1. Three ounces of Prosecco, such as Brilla! Prosecco, two ounces of Aperol (or Campari), and one ounce of soda water/club soda.

We often saw these garnished with a slice of orange and, occasionally, with an olive. Additional variations can be made using Cynar Ricetta Originale, an artichoke-based bitter, or Fernet-Branca Amaro, a bitter, herbal Italian liquor, in place of the Aperol. Or, for an Italian variation on the classic Campari Spritz, try the Bicicletta, which uses Campari and still white wine in place of the Prosecco. Pinot Grigio, such as Cantina Zaccagnini, is a common choice for this drink, but I would encourage you to try a different Italian white as your base, such as Terredora DiPaolo Falanghina or Amorino Pecorino D’Abruzzo. If you are not a fan of “bubbles,” the Bicicletta is a less bubbly, but equally refreshing option.

A very popular option that we saw throughout Italy was the Hugo Spritz, a refreshing drink that uses St. Germain or St. elder elderflower liquor in place of the bitters. The recipe is a bit more involved, but far from difficult. Add ½ ounce of St. Germain and a sprig of fresh mint to your wine glass. Gently muddle to release the essence of the mint. Then add ice, four ounces of Prosecco and one ounce of soda water; garnish with another mint sprig and a thin slice of lemon or lime (or both). These are very refreshing and somewhat reminiscent of a mojito cocktail.

Locations around the world are adding their own variation on Spritzes. The French 75 is a very refreshing variation that originated in Paris during World War I. This cocktail uses an ounce of Gin, ½ ounce of fresh lemon juice, ½ ounce of simple syrup, and three ounces of Champagne, Cava, or Prosecco, with a twist of lemon as the garnish.

The Grand Marnier Spritz is a great option for lovers of this cognac-based orange liqueur. Simply add two ounces of Grand Marnier to a glass filled with ice and add two ounces of Prosecco, Champagne, or other sparkling wine. Add a splash of

lemon juice and a twist of lemon, and you are ready to enjoy.

The Lillet & Basil Spritz takes one ounce of Lillet Blanc (a fruity French white wine made of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes), four or five basil leaves, four ounces of the sparkling wine of your choice, a splash of lime juice and a basil leaf for garnish. Or, a newer variation on this is the Spa Spritz. In a glass filled with ice, add slices of lemon, orange, and/or lime, slices of cucumber, and a few leaves of mint or basil. Add two ounces of Lillet Blanc, three ounces of sparkling wine, and a splash of club soda to taste. This is not only

refreshing, but it is a beautiful visual at your next patio party. Thematically, I prefer to use Champagne, or at least French sparkling wine (Crémant) for the French variations. You don’t have to break the budget on expensive Champagne. Try my favorite, the Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray Brut or even the Café de Paris Vin de France Blanc de Blancs Brut.

Probably the most unusual and intriguing alternative I have found is the Tomato Spritz. You read that right. Tomato! This cocktail can be found on the bar menu at Saxon + Parole in the Bowery in new York City. The ingredients are ¼ ounce gin, two ounces extra-dry vermouth, 1 ½ ounces tomato water, two ounces Prosecco, and club soda to top it off. Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and a bit of parsley. Can I count this as a salad?

As you can see, there are no rules to “spritzing” through the Fourth of July. The variations are only limited by your imagination and taste. e xperiment and find your favorite(s)! As always, contact me with any questions at dsetley@passionvines.com, or stop into the store. until next time, happy spritzing!

David Setley is enjoying his retirement from higher education as a wine educator and certified sommelier at Passion Vines in Somers Point, New Jersey.

Ocean City Theatre Company to celebrate 15th Annual Broadway Brunch

Ocean City Theatre Company (OCTC) invites community members, patrons and supporters to attend its 15th Annual Broadway Brunch on Sunday, July 19, at 11:30 a.m. at The Flanders Hotel.

The Broadway Brunch is OCTC's signature fundraising event, bringing together theatre lovers, community leaders and supporters for an afternoon of entertainment, celebration and recognition of individuals whose dedication has helped strengthen the arts and enrich the Ocean City community. Guests will also enjoy a delicious and extensive, award-winning brunch, adding to the festive atmosphere of this signature summer tradition.

This year's Star of the Show Honorees include David n ahan, The Lloyd Family and Reverend G. Douglas eberly. each honoree has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to community service, civic engagement, and support for the performing arts.

tinguished community members, OCTC will celebrate several members of the Class of 2026 who have made lasting contributions to the organization through their participation in productions, educational programs and community outreach

In addition to honoring these dis-

ented young artists who have grown up with OCTC, this event highlights the spirit of generosity, creativity and community that defines our organization."

efforts. This year's graduating seniors being recognized are Samantha Friedman, emma Kuzinski and Sophia

Guests will also enjoy a special performance by Skyler Raye n oyes, an OCTC and regional theatre favorite whose powerful performances have delighted audiences throughout the region. n oyes will also be featured this summer in OCTC's Broadway Series production of Sister Act.

"The Broadway Brunch is one of our favorite traditions because it allows us to celebrate the incredible people who make our work possible," said Michael Hartman, artistic director of Ocean City Theatre Company. "From dedicated community leaders and longtime supporters to the tal -

Proceeds from the Broadway Brunch support OCTC's productions, educational programs, scholarships and community outreach initiatives, helping ensure that quality arts experiences remain accessible to residents and visitors of all ages.

"This summer event literally fuels our nonprofit organization," added Hartman. "OCTC cannot operate without events like this, and we hope our fans — and potential new fans — will help make our 15th annual brunch a smashing success."

Tickets are $75 per person and must be purchased by July 10. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at oceancitytheatrecompany.com. Payments made payable to OCTC may also be mailed to: Ocean City Theatre Company 1501 West Avenue Ocean City, nJ 08226

Matyas.

Photos by Tom Briglia/ PhotoGraphics

Live & Local Music Calendar

Thursday, June 25

Atlantic City

Angeloni’s Club Madrid

Heather Holloway

6 p.m.

2400 Arctic Ave.

Steel Pier

Bar none Duo

7 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Deck at Golden Nugget

B Street Band. 7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

nolan Quinn Band

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

The Whitewalls

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Paul Dempsey

5 – 8 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

Linwood

Fox Den at LCC

Bryan McCloud

6 – 10 p.m.

500 Shore Rd.

Margate

Betty’s Seafood Shack

The notion

4 – 8 p.m.

9315 Amherst Ave.

The Lot at Tomatoes

TriSmiley

6 – 9 p.m.

212 n . Washington Ave.

Tideline

Jack Mangene

6 – 9 p.m.

9317 Amherst Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Bob Kelly’s Happy Hour w/ DJ eric

Bartello

5 – 8 p.m.

Karaoke night w/ DJ Mike

8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

Doug Jennings

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

Broken Strings

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Fitzpatrick’s

Glen Sarkis

5 – 8 p.m.

650 n ew Rd.

The Point

Sensational Soul Cruisers

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

eric Johanson

7:30 p.m.

217 e . Main St.

Friday, June 26

Atlantic City

Anchor Rock Club

Bit Brigade

8 p.m.

247 S. n ew York Ave.

Bally Bet Sportsbook

Beth Tinnon

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Bally’s Beach Bar

The Loop

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Borgata B Bar

Jimmy Brogan Trio

7:30 – 11 p.m.

Laura Lea Trio

11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m.

1 Borgata Way

Hard Rock Café

Atley Moon & The Say Somethings

8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Patty & Bugzy

7 p.m.

Out of Spite

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Brooke Dicaro Duo

6 – 10 p.m.

Priceless

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall

Andy Frankel

7 – 10 p.m.

133 S. Tennessee Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Completely unchained: Van Halen

Tribute

7 p.m. & 9:40 p.m.

Separate Ways: Journey Tribute

8:45 p.m. & 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Daddy Pop

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Turning the Tide

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The West at Caesars

The Kicks

10 p.m.

2100 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Max Davey Trio

5 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Don’t Call Me Francis

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Freddie Maul

6 – 9 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

Linwood

Fox Den at LCC

Dead Reckoning

6 – 10 p.m.

500 Shore Rd.

Margate

Bocca

Jesse Deane

6 – 9 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Memories

My Hero Zero

8 p.m.

9518 Amherst Ave.

The Lot at Tomatoes

Zach Runfolo

6 – 9 p.m.

212 n . Washington Ave.

Ventura’s Greenhouse Tiki Bar

Steve Moore & Company

7 – 10 p.m.

106 S. Benson Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Animal House

6 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Yachtzee Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

Doug Jennings

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

James Howell

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

The Point

The usual Suspects

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Mysterious Ways: The u2 e xpe -

rience

7:30 p.m.

217 e . Main St.

Saturday, June 27

Atlantic City

Anchor Rock Club

Sharp Pins

8 p.m.

247 S. n ew York Ave.

Bally’s Beach Bar

Smooth edge Band

2 – 6 p.m.

Take 2 Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Bally Bet Sportsbook

Dale and Amy

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Borgata Beer Garden

Cat 5

1 – 5 p.m.

1 Borgata Way

Hard Rock Café

Andrew Moorer Band

8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Jimmy Brogan Duo

7 p.m.

Sky City Social

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s T Bone Manning

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Camille K Band

5 – 9 p.m.

Brandon Ireland Band

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Gimme Back My Skynyrd

1:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.

unforgettable Fire: u2 Tribute

3:10 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

Back in Black: AC/DC Tribute

4:50 p.m. & 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Cheers The Band

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The West at Caesars

Lost in Paris

10 p.m.

2100 Pacific Ave.

The Yard at Bally’s

nolan Quinn Band

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino

Pickles Duo

9 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Synergy

1 – 5 p.m.

Anger Management

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Tim McGlynn

6 – 9 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

Galloway

McGettigan’s

Isn’t it Always. 8 – 11 p.m.

500 S. n ew York Rd.

Linwood

Fox Den at LCC

Twisted Livin’

6 – 10 p.m.

500 Shore Rd.

Margate

Bocca

Lovelight Trio

7 – 10 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Memories

The Whitewalls. 8 p.m.

9518 Amherst Ave.

Sunrise Tequila Bar

CallMeJack. 1 – 4 p.m.

9700 Ventnor Ave.

Tideline

Joe Grasso

1 – 4 p.m.

9317 Amherst Ave.

Marmora

Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern

Gilligan Yacht Rock

7 p.m.

316 Roosevelt Blvd.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Hickstown Road

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

Doug Jennings

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

Jazzmen experience

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Fitzpatrick’s

Keegan McDevitt

5 – 8 p.m.

650 n ew Rd.

The Point

Sidestory

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Dana Fuchs

7:30 p.m.

217 e . Main St.

Sunday, June 28

Atlantic City

Angeloni’s Club Madrid

Joe McGinty & Friends

7 p.m.

2400 Arctic Ave.

Bally’s Beach Bar

Camille K Band. 2 – 6 p.m.

Jumper. 6 – 10 p.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Borgata Beer Garden

Yani. 1 – 5 p.m.

1 Borgata Way

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Dueling Pianos. 8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Allie & Tim

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Steel Pier

Bar none Duo

7 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Fleetwood Macked

1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Hello I Must Be Going: Phil Collins

Tribute

2:45 p.m. & 8:45 p.m.

Black Dog: Led Zeppelin Tribute

4:30 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

DJ Ben Campbell 4 – 7:30 p.m.

The Loop

8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Incognito. 1 – 5 p.m.

Chaotics. 6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Rick & Laura 5 – 8 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

Galloway

10th Hole at Pomona

Brandon Ireland Duo

1 – 4 p.m.

400 W. Moss Mill Rd.

Margate

Sunrise Tequila Bar

Maya & natalie. 1 – 4 p.m.

9700 Ventnor Ave.

Tideline

nancy Malcun

1 – 4 p.m.

9317 Amherst Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

The Turtle Heads

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

The Budesa Brothers

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

Glen eric & Bob Mower

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

The Point

The Verdict. 7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Monday, June 29

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Good n ’ Plenty

7 – 11 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Red. 6:30 – 10:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Sidestory

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Adam & Min Duo

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Somers Point

Crab Trap

Bill Klinger. 6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s

Jamie & The Quietmen

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

The Point

Joe Grasso

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Tuesday, June 30

Atlantic City

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Patty & Bugzy

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Deck at Golden Nugget

Hawkins Cove

6:30 – 10:30 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony Band

7 – 11 p.m.

DJ Johnny Looch

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Camille K Band

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Margate

Betty’s Seafood Shack

Cosmic Charlie

5 – 8 p.m.

9315 Amherst Ave.

Tideline

Camille Peruto

6 – 9 p.m.

9317 Amherst Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris 7 – 9 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

One Hot Mess

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Crabby Jack’s Jeff X. 6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

The Point

Mike Carney

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Wednesday, July 1

Atlantic City

Steel Pier

Bar none Duo

7 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Brigantine

LaScala’s Beach House

Philly Heart & Soul

6 – 10 p.m.

1400 Ocean Ave.

Margate

Bocca

Live Jazz with Bob Sterling & 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.

The Point

Rob McMahon

7 – 11 p.m.

998 Bay Ave.

Events subject to change.

Somers Point’s restaurant scene: A hidden gem

Grub Club with Marcella Curcio

Just over the bridge from Ocean City sits Somers Point, a small town waterfront community that has quietly built a diverse dining scene. While many visitors pass through on their way to other shore towns like Ocean City and Margate, those who take the time to explore quickly discover a town filled with local favorites, waterfront views, and restaurants that have become traditions for generations of families.

As someone who spends much of my time at the shore and grew up over the bridge in Ocean City, I've found that Somers Point has become one of my favorite places to meet friends, enjoy dinner with family, or grab

some drinks on a summer evening. From seafood restaurants overlooking the bay to neighborhood pubs and family-owned eateries, there is something for every appetite. Here

are a few local favorites that keep me coming back.

Few restaurants are as notable in Somers Point as The Crab Trap. For decades, families have gathered along the bay to enjoy fresh seafood, generous portions, and beautiful waterfront views. The restaurant has become a tradition for many shore visitors, offering the kind of classic Jersey Shore dining experience people look forward to year after year. For me, a visit usually begins next door at Crabby Jack's. Friends and I often meet there for appetizers and

drinks before heading over for dinner. Sitting outside overlooking the water, watching boats pass by, and catching up with friends has become part of the experience. It is one of those places that immediately puts you in a summer mindset.

Charlie's Bar has long been one of Somers Point's most popular neighborhood gathering spots. Known for its casual atmosphere, famous wings, and signature Orange Crush cocktails, the restaurant consistently attracts both locals and visitors looking for a relaxed meal.

Whenever there is a game on television, and I am craving wings, Charlie's is usually my first choice.

The energy inside is always lively, especially during football season, and it feels like one of those places where everyone knows someone. even firsttime visitors quickly feel welcome. Whenever I bring a friend for the first time, they comment on the fun crowd and the wings, especially the sauce they are in.

Gregory's has earned a reputation as one of the area's most dependable restaurants thanks to its extensive menu and comfortable atmosphere. Whether guests are craving seafood, burgers, soups, salads, or classic comfort food, there is truly something for everyone.

It is often my recommendation

when dining with a group because everyone can find something they enjoy. The portions are generous, the service is consistently friendly, meals are always fresh tasting, and the relaxed setting makes it easy to linger over a meal and conversation.

Breakfast is serious business at the shore, and CJ's Corner Grill remains one of my favorite spots to start the day. The menu is packed with breakfast classics, from omelets and eggs Benedict to hearty breakfast sandwiches and lunch options. My personal favorites to satisfy my sweet tooth are the Chunky

↘Continued on 80

Gregory's offers many excellent dishes.

Monkey Pancakes and the Cinnamon Bun Pancakes, along with other fun pancakes they have. They are indulgent, delicious, and worth every bite. During the summer months, CJ's is the perfect stop before heading to the beach for the day.

no Somers Point restaurant holds more nostalgia for me than Smitty's Clam Bar. The seasonal waterfront restaurant has been part of my family's summers for as long as I can remember. With seating that overlooks the bay and seafood arriving fresh from the kitchen, it embodies everything I love about the Jersey Shore.

My family always orders the seafood salad and clam chowder, two dishes that have become part of our tradition. Smitty's is also where I tried my very first clam. even now, a visit there feels like the unofficial start of summer, bringing back memories of countless family dinners by the water.

For those looking for a more tropical atmosphere, The Point offers a completely different side of Somers Point dining. With live music, tiki-inspired décor, waterfront views, and a menu of casual beach fare, it feels like a mini vacation without leaving town.

Friends and I often meet there on summer evenings to enjoy drinks while watching the sunset over the bay. Between the music, the boats,

and the relaxed crowd, it is one of my favorite places to unwind after a busy week.

Pablo's brings vibrant energy and bold flavors to Somers Point's dining scene. The menu features everything from tacos and street corn to creative cocktails, making it a fun option for groups and casual nights out.

I especially enjoy going with friends and ordering several dishes to share. It creates a more social dining experience where everyone can sample something different while enjoying the restaurant's lively atmosphere.

For classic Italian dining, Buona Vita remains a longtime local favorite. Known for generous portions and a menu filled with traditional Italian specialties, the restaurant has become a gathering place for families celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying dinner together.

What I appreciate most is how welcoming the restaurant feels. Mul-

tiple generations can sit around the same table, each finding a favorite dish. It reflects the family-oriented spirit that has always been such an important part of the shore community.

Somers Point may not always receive the same attention as some of its neighboring shore towns, but its restaurant scene continues to be one of South Jersey's hidden gems. Whether you are looking for fresh seafood, a hearty breakfast, waterfront cocktails, or a family dinner, the town offers countless memorable dining experiences.

The food is excellent, the views are beautiful, and many of these restaurants have become part of my own shore traditions. If you find yourself crossing the bridge this summer, consider stopping for a meal. You may just discover your new favorite spot.

This scallop dish at Smitty's is just one of their seafood offerings.

Rock around Wildwood: New virtual tour guides you in the footsteps of legends

By Sarah Fertsch

Wildwood has been known for its beaches, boardwalk and neon-lit Doo Wop architecture.

But long before the resort became synonymous with summer vacations and thrill rides, it was one of America's great music towns — a place where aspiring singers got their first big break and legendary performers played to packed ballrooms.

ers to explore the places where musical history was made, all from the convenience of their smartphones.

now, visitors can experience that history in an entirely new way.

The City of Wildwood has launched the Wildwood Virtual Music History Tour, an interactive experience on the Let's Rallie app that guides users through the island's storied musical past, highlighting the venues, hotels and clubs that helped shape American popular music.

From the sounds of doo-wop and early rock 'n' roll to disco and country music, the self-guided tour invites us-

The tour stretches from Park and Pacific avenues to Schellenger Avenue and the Boardwalk, tracing a route through some of Wildwood's most iconic entertainment districts.

Along the way, participants can learn about the hotels, bars, lounges and clubs that once hosted performers who would later become household names.

During the 1950s and '60s, performers flocked to the island's clubs and dance halls, often playing several

venues in a single summer season. The resort's thriving nightlife scene became a launching pad for singers and bands looking to make it big.

The island's musical legacy is perhaps best captured in songs like Bobby Rydell's "Wildwood Days" and Charlie Gracie's "On the Way to Cape May," both of which are featured in the tour's playlist.

Mayor ernie Troiano Jr. said the project is about more than nostalgia. "This has been a great opportunity

The experience also encourages exploration. users can physically visit the sites and "check in" through the app, turning the tour into a scavenger hunt of sorts.

Those who complete stops along the route will be entered for a chance to win a pair of general admission tickets to the 2027 Barefoot Country Music Fest.

to preserve our island's music history in a fun and interactive way," Troiano said when announcing the initiative. "We've had many firsts here."

The mayor pointed to entertainer Tony Orlando, who got his start at Wildwood's Rainbow Club when he was just 15 years old, as one example of the city's influence on the music industry.

u sing the Let's Rallie app, participants can travel through the city while listening to music, reading historical information and discovering stories behind venues that many visitors pass by without realizing their significance.

er that behind every neon sign and vintage motel lies another chapter in the soundtrack of Wildwood. The following songs are included on the listening tour:

● Three Coins in The Fountain by Frank Sinatra

● What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye

● Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley & His Comets

● The Twist by Chubby Checker

● Keep a Knockin’ by Little Richard

● Before He Cheats by Carrie underwood

● Surfin’ uSA by The Beach Boys

● n eed a Favor by Jelly Roll

● I Love Rock n ’ Roll by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts

● Your Song by elton John

● Wagon Wheel by Darius Rucker

● The Way You Look Tonight by Tony Bennett

● O Sole Mio by Mario Lanza

● Banana Boat (Day-O) by Harry Belafonte

● And More!

Download the Let’s Rallie App at https://app.letsrallie.com/events/ wildwood_music_history_tour on desktop, Iphone, or Android smartphones.

Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

The project was made possible through funding from the Cape May County Board of County Commissioners via the Cape May County Division of Culture and Heritage, with additional support from the n ew Jersey State Historical Commission and the n eighborhood Preservation Program. The effort also involved contributions from local historians and preservationists, including the George F. Boyer Historical Museum and the Doo Wop Preservation League.

Wildwood's music story is still being written. every summer, concerts and festivals continue to draw thousands of visitors to the island, including the ever-growing Barefoot Country Music Fest.

Yet the new virtual tour serves as a reminder that today's music scene stands on the shoulders of decades of performers, promoters and venues that helped put Wildwood on the map.

For visitors looking for a break from the beach, the Wildwood Virtual Music History Tour offers something different: a chance to stroll the same streets where stars once sang, danced and launched careers — and to discov-

Photo credit: Wildwoods, New Jersey Facebook

James Taylor, one of the great troubadours of our time, plays Hard Rock on Saturday

Tune In Turn On

With Doug Deutsch

One of the truly special long-standing figures in American music, James Taylor is coming to Hard Rock Live at etess Arena this Saturday, June 27, with his All-Star Band. Taylor has certainly led quite a charmed life, despite a serious one-time drug addiction that almost

not only threatened to derail his then-promising career, but also his very existence.

Taylor, 78 — whose career started way back in 1960 — was the first artist to be signed and have an album released on The Beatles' fledgling Apple Records imprint, which released his eponymous self-titled debut, James Taylor, in 1968. n ot long thereafter, and following his recuperation from a severe motorcycle accident, Taylor

relocated to California and released his iconic, career-defining album Sweet Baby James, which featured the now-classic tracks "Country Road," "Fire and Rain," the title track and more.

Sweet Baby James went all the way to n o. 3 on the Billboard album chart. More importantly, Taylor is credited as being one of the main proponents who launched the singer-songwriter movement of the 1970s.

In his long, storied career, Taylor has been recognized with six Grammy Awards and 19 nominations. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015 and was awarded the national Medal of Arts by President Barack Obama in 2011. He was inducted into both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2000.

Oh, and did we mention Taylor's marriage to the lovely and talented Carly Simon, at one time the heartthrob of virtually every American teenage male? Simon famously declared she was going to marry Taylor nine months before they even had their first date after seeing his photo on the cover of Time magazine.

Taylor and Simon became one of the most well-known power couples of the 1970s, with Simon even singing backup on several of Taylor's albums — Walking Man, Gorilla and JT, among others. The couple's marriage was unfortunately imperiled by Taylor's continued addiction. They divorced in 1983. Their marriage produced two children, Sarah and Benjamin.

These older star musicians — and James Taylor certainly is included in this category — won't be performing too much longer, so it's important to see them while we still can. Here's one show that shouldn't be missed. Take your significant other!

James Taylor and his All-Star Band, Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, Saturday, June 27, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $139. Information: casino. hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/james-taylor.

Tune-Ups

● Ana Popovic & Fantastafunk at Tony Mart AC Concerts on the Boardwalk, Wednesday, July 1: One of today's premier blues-rock guitarists took a bit of a detour on her most recent full-length release, her 12th overall, Dance to the Rhythm. Listeners expecting a full-throttle blues-rock record might be surprised by the direction the Belgrade, Serbia-born musician took. n onetheless, expect to hear Popovic, 50, and her band Fantastafunk rock out on the Boardwalk that night. 7 p.m. Free. Information: www.tonymart.com.

● Joe Bonamassa at Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City, Saturday, June 27: One of the biggest names in the blues world, the guitarist's most recent release is titled Breakthrough. Tickets start at $72.

● Sharp Pins at Anchor Rock Club, Atlantic City, Saturday, June 27: Breakout young rock artist Kai Slater fronts Sharp Pins, with sets that evening by Te Vista, Super Jack and a special appearance by WFM u 's well-known Todd-oPhonic, who was one of the main organizers of the memorable indie rock concert Frantic City, which took place in Atlantic City in September 2022. Also of note: Te Vista guitarist n iko Berardo recently played several tour dates with Slater, so expect them to jam together at the Anchor. Tickets are $20.14. Information: www. anchorrockclub.com.

Renowned troubadour James Taylor: At Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City this Saturday

Coach Jimmy Johnson’s Atlantic City Championship Fishing Week returns for 6th annual ‘Quest for the Ring’ Championship tournament

FTRADE IN, TRADE UP

Trade in your Old Clubs

Trade up for New Clubs

ish Hard events announced the return of the 6th Annual Jimmy Johnson’s Atlantic City “Quest for the Ring” Championship Fishing Week (JJFISHWeeKAC), hosted in partnership with Visit Atlantic City and the Atlantic City Sports Commission, and presented by Yamaha Outboards and Contender Boats.

performances, and growing community impact year after year. These events have evolved into multi-day celebrations that lift communities, support local nonprofits, and create memories that last long after the boats return to the dock. I can’t wait to see what 2026 brings.”

The n ortheast installment of Coach Johnson’s acclaimed tournament series returns July 12–18, 2026, hosted at the Frank S. Farley State Marina at the Golden n ugget in Atlantic City, with an additional weigh station available at Sunset Marina in Ocean City, Maryland, bringing seven days of world-class sportfishing, elevated hospitality, and a prize structure designed for anglers across the northeast region.

Tournament format and competition

Building on a strong 2025 tournament that drew more than 60 elite teams and awarded over $1 million in payouts, JJFISHWeeKAC continues to offer a flexible yet highly competitive format designed around strategy, conditions, and angler choice:

● Seven days of events and sponsor activations

● Fish three out of five eligible fishing days

Led by Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach Jimmy Johnson and the seasoned team at Fish Hard events, JJFISHWeeKAC continues to rank among the most anticipated competitive sportfishing events on the east Coast, drawing elite teams to chase championship titles, big-money payouts, and a one-of-a-kind tournament experience that is over the top night hospitality to make an unforgettable week.

“I’ve been involved with many fishing tournaments over the years, but this is not your typical fishing tournament – it is an experience,” said Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach Jimmy Johnson. “We’ve seen record-breaking purses, extraordinary

● Depart from your dock of choice

● Two weigh stations to help you end your day conveniently: Frank S. Farley State Marina at Golden n ugget Atlantic City and Sunset Marina in Ocean City, Maryland

The 2026 tournament will continue to offer a robust range of categories and optional calcuttas — including payouts for white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin, small boat divisions, non-sonar divisions, inlet challenges and JJ’S DAILY MVP Game Ball Calcutta for all species you won’t want to miss — ensuring competitive opportunities for every team and every preferred targeting strategy.

Hospitality and entertainment

Teams will enjoy dual-city hospitality throughout the week, with Atlantic City serving as the tournament’s central hub, hosting the nutrl Kickoff Party, additionally hosted by Tanger Outlets and Goodr Sunglasses, nightly hospitality suite dinners, daily spectator sponsored weigh station activations from 5 - 9 p.m., hosted by leading beverage partners to include Hendrick’s Gin, Michelob u ltra and Tito’s Vodka, and additional promotional programming featuring Jersey Cape Yachts, n ew Jersey Lottery and Johnson & Towers, the fan-favorite, the participants private ultimate Gifting e xperience, hosted by Hard Rock Atlantic City, where captains and anglers receive premium swag from tournament partners including apparel, performance gear, sunglasses, footwear and more.

Community impact

The week concludes with the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Closing Awards Bash, a signature celebration featuring live entertainment, open bars, culinary experiences, and the crowning of the newest inductee into Coach Johnson’s legendary Ring of Honor. This year’s theme: 007 BO n D!

Community impact remains a core pillar of JJFISHWeeKAC. In 2025, the tournament’s Catch for the Community program provided thousands of pounds of fresh fish to partners including the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City who support the feeding community in need throughout the Atlantic City area, presented by Greentree Mortgage, while more than $100,000 was raised for nonprofit beneficiaries at the Closing Awards Bash. The team at Fish Hard events annually participates in a community program while in town with the chefs from Hard Rock Atlantic City and Visit Atlantic City to learn some new culinary skills from the best. This tradition of charitable giving and community engagement will continue to grow heading into 2026.

Sponsors and partners

Jimmy Johnson’s Atlantic City ‘Quest for the Ring’ Championship Fishing Week is brought to you in partnership with Visit Atlantic City and the Atlantic City Sports Commission, hosted by Contender Boats, powered by Yamaha Outboards, and additionally hosted by Golden n ugget Atlantic City and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.

For more information, visit https:// questfortheringac.com/ or https:// jjfishweek.catchstat.com.

By Gary Mazin

TEHT Nature Reserve offers a peaceful summer retreat

he egg Harbor Township

n ature Reserve features many walking trails that offer peace and tranquility for visitors, whether they arrive with friends, family or the family dog. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet outdoor experience.

u pon arriving at the 220-acre reserve in the heart of egg Harbor Township, I quickly discovered a landscape filled with lush, towering trees swaying gently overhead. Winding trails meander through the scenery, carrying the scent of fresh pine and wildflowers. The gentle rustling of leaves and chirping birds create a peaceful atmosphere that immediately encourages relaxation.

The reserve is also well known for its recreational opportunities. It is a popular destination for bicyclists, anglers and kayakers who take advantage of the beautiful lake and surrounding trails. During the summer months, hiking, biking and walking are among the most popular activ-

visitors were walking or running, others stopped along the Fit Trail, which features 10 exercise stations designed to combine fitness with the outdoors.

ities. Birdwatching is also common, as the area provides habitat for numerous species. Wildlife enthusiasts frequently spot butterflies, turtles, songbirds and other native animals. established as part of the township's open-space preservation efforts, the reserve has become a favorite destination for residents and visitors seeking a peaceful alternative to the region's busier shore communities.

During my visit, dozens of people were enjoying the reserve's several miles of trails. A local running club gathered in the parking lot before beginning its workout. While many

The reserve's freshwater lake is one of its most popular attractions. Anglers regularly cast lines from the shoreline while kayakers paddle across the calm water. early mornings and evenings offer some of the most picturesque views as sunlight reflects off the lake and wildlife becomes increasingly active.

The lake is also where family traditions continue to thrive. During my visit, three generations of one local family — Dave Schrag, his son, DJ Schrag, and grandson, Quinn Schrag — were getting their poles ready to spend the afternoon fishing together along the shoreline. While they were

preparing to fish, DJ Schrag noted that his wife was also at the reserve walking the trails.

"Yes, we got everybody doing something here," he said. Their outing reflects a tradition shared by many local families who have returned to the reserve for years to enjoy time outdoors together.

Over the years, the reserve has also become an important community gathering place. It has hosted charity walks and runs, environmental education programs, art exhibits and seasonal events that encourage residents to enjoy the outdoors while promoting healthy lifestyles.

The reserve continues to evolve as improvements are added. Construction is underway on the Carman Memorial Pavilion Project, which will honor the Carman family. The project includes a pavilion, concrete walkways, landscaping and a stone memorial. According to information posted near the construction site, the project is being funded through donations from local contractors and community supporters.

Visitors are reminded to follow park regulations designed to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Swimming is prohibited in the lake. Dogs must remain on a leash, and motorized watercraft and recreational vehicles are not permitted.

As temperatures rise and nearby shore destinations become increasingly crowded, the egg Harbor Township nature Reserve offers a refreshing alternative. With its scenic trails, tranquil lake, diverse wildlife and educational opportunities, the reserve reminds visitors that some of South Jersey's most memorable summer experiences can be found away from the beach. Gary Mazin is a long time Ventnor resident. He has a love of writing, reading comic books and watching movies. He is a published author and is a graduate of both ACCC and New York Film Academy.

Gov. Sherrill signs bill cracking down on restaurant reservation scalping

By Sophie Nieto-Munoz, NJ Monitor

Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed bipartisan legislation last month barring third-party services from listing or selling reservations at n ew Jersey restaurants without the eateries’ consent. Lawmakers pushed to finalize this measure before the state began hosting World Cup matches. under the new law, any website or app that advertises, lists, promotes, or sells restaurant reservations without a formal agreement with the restaurant will be subject to civil penalties of up to $500 per violation, with fines accruing daily.

The bill passed both chambers of the Legislature with overwhelming support in March.

The legislation takes aim at a practice that has become more popular in recent years. Third parties make reservations at popular restaurants and resell them, often at steep markups, without the knowledge of the businesses involved. If no one purchases the reservation, it can often be canceled at the last minute, potentially

leaving restaurants with empty tables and lost revenue.

During the 2025 Super Bowl in n ew Orleans, a third-party service sold a restaurant reservation for more than $2,000.

n ew Jersey lawmakers like Sen. Kristin Corrado (R-Passaic), a chief sponsor of the bill, said they were eager to eliminate reservation scalping before tens of thousands of tourists are expected to visit the region for

the World Cup at MetLife Stadium.

“Third-party reservation brokers have sold tables that they do not own for outrageous prices, often without the knowledge of a restaurant or small business. This new law protects patrons from price-gouging and ensures that the benefit of major events goes to our local businesses, not opportunistic middlemen,” Corrado said in a statement.

On reservation website Appoint-

mentTrader.com, a table for two on Saturday at popular Montclair eatery Pasta Ramen goes for $78. A reservation for two patrons at Razza in Jersey City would cost $121 for Saturday night, but could go for over $400.

A website spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment on the new law.

The law does not apply to reservation platforms like OpenTable and Resy, which have contractual relationships with restaurants and don’t allow patrons to buy other people’s reservations.

“When someone makes a dining reservation, they are placing their trust in the restaurant and in whoever facilitates that booking that their table will be available,” Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese (D-Bergen) said in a statement. “But when an unauthorized third party makes promises it has no obligation to honor, it is the patron who is left without a table, and the restaurant that is left to manage a situation entirely outside of its control.”

The law goes into effect immediately.

The law takes aim at a new practice that restaurants gripe can lead to canceled reservations and lost revenue. Photo by Dana DiFilippo

Capybara births at Cape May County Zoo

The Cape May County Park and Zoo announced the birth of another litter of capybara pups. It was Marigold’s turn to give birth to her second litter. She gave birth on June 18 to six healthy pups. They are under careful watch from the animal keepers and veterinary staff.

earlier this year, Buttercup gave birth to her second litter of pups as well. Marigold and the pups will be able to be seen periodically from the bridge at the capybara habitat, but they will be off habitat occasionally to give them some respite from crowds and weather. You are also likely to spot Marigold’s sister, Buttercup, with her two pups, as well as the pups from last year. The Zoo recommends arriving before 3:30 p.m., since that is typically when the keepers bring the moms and their pups into the building for the night.

seeing the growing family of pups now and in the future.”

“This is a very unique situation to have two litters of capybara pups so close to one another,” said Cape May County Commissioner Vice-Director Andrew Bulakowski, who also is liaison to the Cape May County Park and Zoo. “We know families will enjoy

Capybaras are native to South America and are semi-aquatic rodents. They are the largest of the rodent family and are found in forested areas near bodies of water, such as lakes, swamps, or rivers. Capybaras typically weigh between 75 and 150 pounds, with females being slightly heavier than males. They are a highly social species and can form large

groups to live in. Pups are up and walking within hours of being born and start eating grass as early as 1 week. However, pups will continue to suckle for about 16 weeks.

The Cape May

A lifetime of local history: A conversation with Kirk Hastings, president of the Wildwood Crest Historical Society

By Alanna Stoloff

With a passion for preserving local history and sharing the stories that shape a community, Kirk Hastings plays an important role in keeping the past alive in Wildwood Crest. Through his involvement with the Wildwood Crest Historical Society, he helps connect residents and visitors to the rich heritage of the area.

His dedication reflects a deep appreciation for history and the importance of understanding where we come from. By preserving local landmarks, stories and traditions, Kirk’s work offers a meaningful way for future generations to stay connected to the community’s roots.

Here are some excerpts from our Coastal Conversation:

AS: What inspired you to get involved with the Wildwood Crest Historical Society?

in the 1960s, and lived there as an adult also. I have long been fascinated with local history — especially the local mid-century modern motel architecture there. I even wrote a full color, photo/history book about that subject in 2007 called “Doo Wop Motels: Architectural Treasures of The Wildwoods” (now physically out of print, but still available as an e-book), and last year (2025) I published a middle-school mystery book based on my experiences growing up in Wildwood Crest in the 1960s called “The Mystery of The Haunted Motel” (both available on Amazon).

AS: Why is preserving local history so important, especially in a place like Wildwood Crest?

KH: Wildwood Crest has a rich history of very distinctive mid-century modern home and motel architecture that was built there in the 1950s through the 1970s. But because of modern development since the turn of the century, they have lost many of these classic buildings. We need

to remember how the town once pioneered the unique design and construction of that kind of architecture.

buildings — and today continues to endanger what is left.

AS: How has Wildwood Crest evolved over the years, and what stands out to you most?

AS: Can you share a story or piece of history about Wildwood Crest that people may not know? KH: An early Revolutionary War sea battle took place there (“The Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet”) on June 29, 1776, that involved a young Captain John Barry (who later would become Commodore Barry and be known as "The Father of the American navy").

AS: What role does the Historical Society play in the community today?

KH: We have a large collection of local documents and artifacts that are presently in storage and awaiting a new museum space; an extensive web page (www.cresthistory.org) that documents the history of the Crest; and we have a very active Facebook page that has almost 6000 members.

AS: How do you engage younger generations and spark their interest in local history?

KH: It has experienced a real estate development boom since the early 2000s, which has made many physical improvements in the town — but it has also, unfortunately, erased a great deal of its history (which goes back to its founding in 1910).

AS: How can residents and visitors get involved or support the Historical Society?

KH: Join our Facebook page, and make it known to Crest borough officials that you would like to see our historical museum reopen in the near future.

AS: What do you hope people take away from learning about the history of Wildwood Crest?

KH: The many memories that people today still have of growing up there and vacationing there over the years, and a greater appreciation for the unique, pioneering motel architecture that was once there in great abundance (and still exists there to some extent today).

KH: By directing people to our extensive web page, and posting interesting old photos of Wildwood Crest on our Facebook page that continue to spark old memories and new conversations.

AS: Are there any projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about right now?

KH: Right now we are anxiously awaiting a new location for our old historical museum (that used to be located in the Crest Pier Community Center).

AS: What challenges come with preserving historical sites and stories?

KH: Curbing local real estate development, which has taken many of our historic homes and motel

Many thanks to Kirk Hastings for sharing his passion and dedication to preserving the history of Wildwood Crest. His work ensures that the stories of the past continue to inform, inspire, and connect the community for generations to come.

Coastal Conversations highlights people in our community who are making a meaningful impact. If you know someone who would be a great fit for a future column, please contact me at ShoreCoastalConversations@ gmail.com.

From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.

Kirk Hastings helps connect residents and visitors to the rich heritage of Wildwood Crest.

Choose the Experienced, Local, Friendly Plumber

For over 40 years, Barron Plumbing & Heating has served the Atlantic City community as a family-owned, locally operated business. Four decades and over 20,000 families served are not just part of our story—they are the foundation of how we show up and serve you today.

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By Sarah Fertsch

TFive crowd-pleasing recipes for a star-spangled celebration

he Fourth of July is always a celebration, but this year feels especially significant, as our nation marks its 250th birthday. Families and friends will gather around picnic tables, backyard grills and beach blankets to celebrate with food.

Whether you're hosting a patriotic cookout, spending the holiday at the Shore or attending a neighborhood block party, these recipes bring together classic American flavors with a touch of celebration-worthy flair. From a seafood boil overflowing with shellfish to crispy fried chicken and a decadent strawberry cheesecake, this menu is designed for a birthday party 250 years in the making.

Coastal Seafood Boil with Crab Legs and Shrimp

nothing says summer on the east Coast quite like a seafood boil spread across a newspaper-covered table.

Ingredients

● 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined

● 2 pounds snow crab legs

● 1 pound small red potatoes

● 4 ears corn, cut into thirds

● 1 head of garlic, crushed

● 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced

● 2 lemons, halved

● 4 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning

● 1 stick butter, melted

● Fresh parsley

● Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Fill a large stockpot with water and add Old Bay, lemon halves and potatoes. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes.

2. Add sausage, garlic and corn. Cook 8 minutes.

3. Add crab legs and cook 5 minutes.

4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3 minutes.

5. Drain and spread onto a serving table or large platter.

6. Drizzle with melted butter and garnish with parsley.

Serve with extra lemon wedges and plenty of napkins.

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Corn on the Cob

A simple side dish becomes unforgettable when smoky bacon joins sweet summer corn.

Ingredients

● 8 ears corn, husked

● 8 slices bacon

● 2 tablespoons brown sugar

● 1 teaspoon paprika

● Fresh cracked pepper

Directions

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.

2. Wrap each ear of corn with one slice of bacon.

3. Sprinkle with brown sugar, paprika and pepper.

4. Grill for 20-25 minutes, turning frequently until bacon is crisp and corn is tender.

5. Serve immediately.

Crispy Fried Chicken

Golden, crunchy and juicy inside, this fried chicken is the star of any Independence Day table.

Ingredients

● 3 pounds chicken thighs or wings

● 2 cups buttermilk

● 2 teaspoons hot sauce

● 2 cups flour

● 1 tablespoon paprika

● 2 teaspoons garlic powder

● 2 teaspoons onion powder

● 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

● Salt and pepper

● Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

ries give this creamy dessert a festive red-and-white-and-blue appearance that's perfect for the holiday.

Ingredients

Crust

● 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

● 6 tablespoons melted butter

Filling

1. Marinate chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least four hours or overnight.

2. In a bowl, combine flour and seasonings.

3. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge thoroughly in seasoned flour.

4. Heat oil to 350 degrees.

5. Fry chicken in batches for 10-15 minutes, depending on piece size, until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Drain on a wire rack and sprinkle lightly with salt.

Patriotic Strawberry Blueberry Cheesecake

Fresh strawberries and blueber-

● 24 ounces cream cheese, softened

● 1 cup sugar

● 3 eggs

● 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

● 2 cups sliced strawberries

● 2 tablespoons strawberry preserves

● Whipped cream

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.

3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

4. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.

5. Pour over crust and bake for 55-60 minutes.

6. Cool completely, then refrigerate at least four hours.

7. Warm preserves slightly and toss with strawberries.

8. Spoon strawberries over cheesecake and garnish with blueberries before serving. For extra patriotic flair, decorate whipped cream stars.

Southern Sweet Tea

no Fourth of July gathering is complete without a pitcher of ice-cold sweet tea. Add some rum for an extra kickpour what feels right for your crowd.

Ingredients

● 6 black tea bags

● 1 cup sugar

● 8 cups water

● Lemon slices

● Fresh mint (optional)

Directions

1. Bring 4 cups water to a boil.

2. Remove from heat and steep tea bags for 10 minutes.

3. Remove tea bags and stir in sugar until dissolved.

4. Add remaining 4 cups cold water.

5. Chill thoroughly.

6. Serve over ice with lemon slices and mint.

America's semiquincentennial only comes around once. Whether you're watching fireworks over the bay, gathering around a backyard picnic table or celebrating at a beach house with family and friends, these recipes offer a delicious way to honor the nation's milestone birthday. After all, few traditions are more American than sharing good food with the people you love on a warm summer evening while fireworks light up the sky.

Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.

... to Lives Well Lived Now publishing Every week.

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

By Ursula Duffy

Rising sign horoscopes for June 25 – July 1

Aries: This week may usher in feelings of growing pains. Although your diligence pays off professionally (bravo!), it’s a balancing act between your own growth and your home life.

Taurus: The underlying theme this week is your perspective. A silver lining is revealed, yet fully seeing the new horizon will require keeping an open mind and trusting your intuition.

Gemini: The seesaw of your personal resources versus that which is shared with another holds steady on the shared side longer than usual. Tweaks may be necessary for future goals.

Cancer: How are you feeling in your profession and relationships, Cancer? The light shines on where you may require more commitment or structure, amidst your own soul-searching.

Leo: Daily dedication to your health and well-being pays off. As you bask in the glow of your physical vitality, consider your spiritual wellness. How can you be even more connected?

Virgo: This week brings a culmination in your creative endeavors that may also ripple out to your social network. Identify what’s collaborative and be sure to give credit where it’s due.

Libra: Your efforts to strengthen your foundation come to fruition. As you feel better on more solid ground, it becomes easier to deflect projections from others trying to rock your boat.

Weekly Horoscopes

Scorpio: You are shown the strength and power of your thoughts and words. Although you may not fully realize it at the time, daily efforts and willingness to change perspectives were key.

Sagittarius: The spotlight shines on your finances, resources, and confidence. The connection to your creative force, or a risk you took, is revealed. Contracts may come under review.

Capricorn: It’s your week to stand out and shine from the inside out, Capricorn. Be your true self in what sets you apart from your family and relationships. Authenticity is beautiful.

Aquarius: It’s a good week to capitalize on your natural tendency towards solitude. Rest, retreat, and refresh with some time away from all the daily noise to reconnect with your soul.

Pisces: efforts you’ve devoted to community, a greater sense of belonging, and your goals should solidify this week. enjoy what you’ve orchestrated for yourself along with the boosts.

Weekly astrology summary:

The first full moon after the solstice is incoming this week, along with several important planetary shifts that invite us to “stand still” like the sun just did, to be present, and to slow down to contemplate the path ahead as we approach the middle of the year. numinous, mystical neptune holds the cosmic mic with both challenging and supportive influence on the week’s events. e xpect the energies to feel parts magical, mysterious, and ethereal. extra solitude, rest, and quieting the mind may be required as the biennial occurrence of the sun squaring n eptune sets the tone on

June 25 and then Mars shifts into a more slow-witted Gemini on June 28. On June 29, the moon’s day, the second Mercury retrograde of the year begins in the early afternoon and then the moon reaches fullness in Capricorn at 7:56 p.m., steadying us and holding the space for power in pause. Think back to mid-January when the moon was new in Capricorn and what may be reaching fruition now. One lovely way to be present and in the moment could be enjoying the moonrise!

The month closes out with gusto as jubilant Jupiter shifts into the zodiac sign Leo on June 30. The largest planet’s presence in the sun-ruled sign of self, radiance, and heart-centered creativity is a big, magnetic energy that will grace us personally and collectively until July 2027. Jupiter spends roughly one year in each zodiac sign, so themes from 12 years ago may begin to resurface. The cosmos will light up like the fireworks we can expect next weekend as July begins, which I’ll cover in next week’s edition! This week’s horoscopes are focused on the Capricorn full moon; see the above horoscope for your rising sign for more specific insight and guidance. If you’re unsure what your rising sign is, you can email me at ursaalchemy@gmail.com, learn more in my tutorial video on my ursa Alchemy YouTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com.

Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, Certified Aromatherapist and founder of Ursa Alchemy. www. ursaalchemy.com or ursaalchemy@ gmail.com.

Developing impulse control in puppies

By Heidi Clayton

Puppies do what works for them in the moment, with little thought other than to seek instant gratification for their needs or pleasure. Things like jumping, pulling on a leash, and barging out of doorways are all a result of a lack of impulse control. For example, puppies think, “I want dinner, so I jump on my human when they try to put my food dish down. I want to get somewhere faster than my human is walking, so I will drag them.” Another big one is the door opens an inch, and the puppy is gone because they see the world is outside waiting for them. However, teaching a puppy self-control doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple way to instill impulse control is how you release them from their crates.

One of the keys to teaching a puppy to control their urges to jump or barge out the door is by remaining relatively passive and quiet towards them when they are actively engaged in the unwanted behavior. Walking up to a kennel full of puppies, or even one puppy, talking to them and asking them for things they do not yet fully understand or are unable to do, in my

experience, only gets puppies more excited. not only does your voice lead to more excitement, but people also tend to ask the puppy to do something repeatedly, like saying “sit” or “down” over and over. If the puppy has not volunteered to sit the first or second time you have asked, all you are doing is making the command an option that is allowed to be dismissed. Also, your puppy does not know what “stay” means, so please don’t say it! Instead of flooding a young puppy with words, try being quiet and calm

when teaching them impulse control. Also, make it easy on yourself by working on self-control at doorways from their crate door. Puppies barging out of doorways is a big complaint from clients, and the easiest way to avoid it is quite simple: Do not open the door if you think your puppy is going to bolt through it. Aside from the danger of your puppy getting loose and hurt, if there is a person on the other side of the door who will get jumped on, you are allowing the puppy to commit crimes that you are actually trying to prevent. Doorways are exciting places for dogs. We go to the door when someone is either on the other side of it, or we are taking them through it to go places. Try to minimize the excitement by being passive when someone knocks and not being in a rush to open the door. I start this training at the crate door by approaching the crate quietly and not asking if the puppy wants to come out, which may excite them.

normally, a puppy will assume that if you are walking up to their crate, you are there to free them. I wait for the puppy to offer me solid eye-to-eye contact for about 10 seconds. next, if the puppy knows what “sit” is, I will ask for it one time and one time only. If they have a case of the wiggles or stare at the crate door, I remain passive and wait. When the puppy finally sits on their own, I will reach toward the crate door, pretending I am going to open it. If the puppy breaks the “sit,” my hand goes away from the crate door. I will wait for the puppy to figure out that in order for my hand to open the door, they have to sit. Slowly start to open the crate door, and be ready to quickly shut it if they stand up to barge out. Reward them with treats or praise for remaining still. Once you are able to open the door entirely and stand up, you can start telling them a release word like “OK” or “free.”

You can start to instill calmness and impulse control at every doorway in the house with this simple exercise. Remember to give them plenty of treats and rewards for getting it right. In no time, your puppy will figure out that calmness gets them more things in life!

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, reward-based dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https://fouronthefloordogtraining.net

Shore Local Trivia

Test Your Local Knowledge

1. What breed of dogs strut their stuff at Ocean City’s Doo Dah parade?

a) Bassett Hounds

b) Chihuahuas

c) Golden retrievers

d) Bull Dogs

2. What sweet treat got its name on the Atlantic City Boardwalk?

a) Cracker jacks

b) Jimmies

c) Cotton Candy

d) Salt Water Taffy

3. How many drawbridges operate in Atlantic county?

a) One

b) Three

c) Five

d) Six

4. What is the name of the Natio nal Guard flight Squadron that flies out of Atlantic County?

a) Jersey Devils

b) Green Heads

c) Sea Gulls

d) Sting Rays

5. What was the name of the ride on the steel pier that took passengers below the ocean’s surface?

a) Kerplunk

b) The nautilus

c) The Diving Bell

d) Yellow Submarine

6. This is home to the longest Ocean Pier in NJ.

a) Ocean City

b) Margate

c) Ventnor

d) Atlantic City

7. The short lived Atlantic City arena football team was the:

a) Card Sharks

b) Black Jacks

c) String Rays

d) Seagulls

8. Geographically, what city is as far south as Cape May?

a) Washington DC

b) Wilmington Delaware

c) Baltimore

d) Philadelphia

9. The Gardens is a neighborhood of what town?

a) Somers Point

b) Ventnor

c) Margate

d) Ocean City

10.What is not a game token of Monopoly?

a) Scottie Dog

b) Piggy Bank

c) Race Car

d) Top Hat

Answers on page 102

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

8 or 9 correct - SOLID LOCAL. You know your way around.

6 or 7 correct - S eMI LOCAL. n ot born and raised, but not bad.

3 or 5 correct - neWBI e . Take another exit. You should get around more.

0 to 2 correct - SHOOBI e –Welcome to South Jersey. The beach is that way.

SUDOKU

ACROSS

1. "Beat it!"

6. Bupkis

9. Tobacco mouthful, slangily

13. "All My Children" diva

14. *Pie ____ ____ mode

15. Oil source

DOWN

1. Gets the picture

2. ____dad or ____fish

3. Stravinsky's "The ____ of Spring"

4. DnA and RnA

5. natalie Merchant, once?

6. Funny poet Ogden

16. *____ ____ or to go

17. Meghan Markle's Archie, e.g.

18. east Asian peninsula

19. *Italian or ____ meatballs

21. *la King or Kiev

23. Pine juice

24. Jury colleague

25. u.K. broadcaster

28. Make a reference

30. Wine grape

35. Riyadh native

37. *Wafer, cake or sugar

39. "no way" partner

40. On ____, or cheap

41. Old World lizard

43. Rani's dress

44. Like a Harvard building?

46. "Don't bet ____ ____!"

47. Table scraps

48. *With cream or sugar

50. Montana tribe

52. Make lacework

53. Prospector's mother

55. Directing Spike

57. *Shaken or stirred

61. *not on the rocks

65. ____ Bashevis Singer

66. Gobbled up

68. Between 10 and Queen

69. *Mini or maxi

70. no longer working abbr.

71. Saint in the Caribbean

72. nobel Peace Prize capital

73. Kum Ba ____, song

74. Triangular road sign

7. u n. working-conditions agcy.

8. Jousting pole

9. Chocolate candy, to a Brit

10. "____! The herald angles sing"

11. Toward the lee

12. Withdraw gradually

15. Vail trail

20. Virgo's brightest star

22. Request for tailor

24. Self-flagellation, e.g.

25. In its simplest form

26. Music to a performer's ears

27. Representative of Allah on earth

29. *eat in or ____ ____

31. Comme ci, comme a

32. Pie display

33. Largest artery

34. *Lime or ____

36. *Rare or medium

38. Chieftain in Arabia

42. Bikini, e.g.

45. Civil wrong

49. Bajillion years

51. More rare than daily

54. Dear one for writing

56. Boredom

57. Fermented soybeans

58. Says "What?"

59. *not top-shelf

60. Hawaiian tuber

61. Long for Liz

62. Small european freshwater fish

63. Bad to the bone

64. In Davy Jones' locker

67. *Hot or iced

THEME: HOW DO YOU LIKE IT

HERO Campaign promotes safe celebrations for graduating seniors

raduating seniors from Ocean City and e gg Harbor Township high schools marked the end of the school year with a reminder that the safest way to celebrate is by planning ahead.

Students gathered with H eRO Campaign-designated police patrol vehicles to help promote the organization's message en

couraging graduates to make responsible choices during

transportation plans before attending graduation par-

and

graduation season. The campaign emphasizes the importance of using a designated driver and making

celebrations. The H e RO Campaign reminds graduates that the designated driver is the true "Life of the Party," and encourages students to celebrate their accomplishments while keeping themselves, their friends and the community safe.

Photo courtesy of the HERO Campaign.

You Won't

Leave Hungry!

Serving consistently delicious Breakfast and Lunch for over 25 Years! Oversized omelets, home fries made fresh daily. Huge sandwiches served with french fries, coleslaw and a dill pickle! Homemade Soups! Delicious Daily Specials Lunch Served From 11:00 a.m.