SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY'S NEWSMAGAZINE
Washed-Up Skeleton Identi ed as Captain from 1800s Brigantine Shipwreck
95-Year-Old Artist Still Creating & Teaching
Will Canadians Give Cape May County the Cold Shoulder?
Recycle your Shells to Restore Oyster Reef
Interview with Heart about their upcoming AC Show
Irecently ran into the grocery store to pick up a few items. While I left with everything on my list, I also left with a firm resolve not to return anytime soon.
a s I approached the cashier, her demeanor was indifferent at best. There was no greeting, no “thank you,” not even a mention of the total cost. a s I swiped my debit card, she stared at her phone instead of helping me bag the groceries sitting in front of her next to my empty bags. Having worked retail jobs in my youth, I can’t imagine treating a customer that way. Have you had an experience like this? I’d be pleasantly surprised if you said no.
When did customer service begin to slip? Is it the rise of self-checkout machines, workforce shortages in the wake of the pandemic, or a broader cultural shift? and who is ultimately responsible — the employee, the business owner or parents?
ery summer. at the heart of our tourism economy should be the warmth and hospitality of our service workers. From teenagers scooping ice cream to retail clerks and ride operators, every interaction plays a role in shaping a visitor’s experience.
a growing concern is the loss of personability in customer service. While technology and staffing challenges contribute, many workers, especially those who are young, simply haven’t been taught how to treat customers. That’s where we all come in.
Parents and grandparents — talk to your kids about pride in their work. Teach them that a kind word, a helpful attitude and a willingness to go the extra mile can truly make a difference.
Employers — insist that your staff put down their phones, greet every customer and offer a simple “thank you.” Don’t just hand out a name tag and hope for the best. Train, mentor and lead by example. That investment will pay dividends.
Young employees — every shift is a chance to grow. a genuine smile or a friendly “How can I help you?” can leave a lasting impression. and to our seasoned workers — be a mentor. Share your experience and model the kind of service that sets the bar for excellence.
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 Digital Marketing - Liz Katz
Contributors – Charles Eberson, Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Rebecca Oldham, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Rachael King, Elisa Jo Eagan, Joe Martucci, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Chuck Darrow, Bruce Klauber, Christina Martin, Delaney Crawford, Ursula Duffy, Robin Stoloff, Tynan Hand, Madison Russ
Cover photo by Charles Eberson
What used to be a given — a smile, a greeting, a bit of eye contact — is now increasingly rare. Even if you’re lucky enough to get a cashier instead of scanning your own items, there’s a good chance they won’t greet or thank you.
Here at the Jersey Shore, we welcome tens of thousands of visitors ev-
The Jersey Shore’s charm has always been its people. Let’s ensure that charm continues to shine — not just through efficiency or convenience, but through kindness, professionalism and human connection.
Peace & Love, Cindy
By Sarah Fertsch Staff Writer
For decades, beachgoers along South Jersey’s picturesque coastline stumbled upon scattered human bones, an eerie reminder of an unsolved mystery. What story could these remains tell? This question puzzled investigators for nearly 30 years — until now.
Thanks to cutting-edge genetic genealogy and the dedication of forensic experts, the skeletal fragments have been identified as belonging to a 19th-century ship captain whose ill-fated voyage ended in tragedy just off the coast of Brigantine in 1844.
The Oriental was transporting approximately 60 tons of marble for the construction of Girard College in Philadelphia when it encountered
disaster. Departing from Connecticut, the schooner began to take on water near Brigantine Shoal.
Despite efforts to save the vessel, it sank about a mile from the shore, killing all five crew members aboard. Reports from The york Democratic Press and Boston Daily Bee documented the tragedy, noting that only
one body — a crew member named John Keith — was recovered at the time.
The ship’s cargo of marble was meant to form part of the architectural grandeur of Girard College, a prestigious boarding school that would later open its doors in 1848. Historical records indicate that work
on the facility continued, albeit under challenging circumstances, after The Oriental’s demise.
The mystery began in 1995, when a skull was found on the beach in Longport. Over the next two decades, additional bones surfaced: in Margate in 1999 and in Ocean City in 2013. Due to the scattered locations, investigators referred to the remains as “Scattered Man John Doe.”
Having made little progress, the New Jersey State Police partnered with the Ramapo College Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center (IGG) in 2023 to revisit the case. Genetic material was sent to Intermountain Forensics, a Salt Lake City-based nonprofit specializing in using DNa to identify human remains.
The lab extracted and uploaded the genetic profile to genealogy databases, including GEDmatch and FamilyTreeDNa , for comparison. This approach marked a significant turning point in the investigation.
The forensic lab played a pivotal role in unraveling the mystery. Using
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advanced DNa extraction techniques, scientists isolated viable genetic material from the remains — no small feat, given their exposure to harsh environmental conditions over nearly two centuries.
These efforts utilized next-generation sequencing (NGS), a technology capable of reading fragmented DNa and reconstructing enough of the genetic profile to enable comparisons.
The genetic data revealed matches linking the remains to living descendants. Through a process known as genetic triangulation, forensic genealogists pinpointed shared DNa segments among relatives, narrowing down the lineage to Henry Goodsell.
Historical documents, including ship manifests and 19th-century newspaper articles, corroborated these findings, cementing the connection between Goodsell and The Oriental’s ill-fated voyage.
Students at Ramapo College played a vital role in cracking the case. Guided by their professors, they researched Goodsell’s ancestry, tracing his family line back to the 1600s in Connecticut. alongside this genealogical work, the team delved into historical accounts of shipwrecks along the South Jersey coast, ultimately uncovering references to The Oriental in periodicals like The york
Democratic Press and Boston Daily Bee.
The students’ findings highlighted the ship’s tragic final moments in December 1844, when it sank approximately 1 mile from Brigantine Shoal. This evidence laid the groundwork for confirming Goodsell’s identity through genetic analysis.
Further investigation included genetic sampling from Goodsell’s great-great-grandchild. By a pril 2025, authorities confirmed that the remains belonged to Captain Henry Goodsell, making it one of the oldest cold cases solved through genetic genealogy.
“Identifying human remains is one of the most solemn and challenging responsibilities law enforcement is charged with,” said Patrick Snyder, chief of county detectives at the atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office. “This case reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that no one is forgotten and that we seek the truth for families.”
New Jersey State Police Superintendent Patrick Callahan echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the power of modern genealogy testing to bring closure even generations after a tragedy. “Our partnership with Ramapo College has been instrumental in making this possible, and we are incredibly proud of the
meaningful progress we continue to make together,” Callahan said.
The Oriental’s marble cargo was intended for Girard College, which opened in 1848 despite the shipwreck. Records show that construction continued actively just months after the disaster, with workers finding alternative means to complete the project.
This case not only solved a long-standing mystery, but it also highlighted the potential of genetic genealogy in uncovering historical truths. Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey Sutherland praised the collaboration, stating, “This work re -
veals a piece of South Jersey history while demonstrating the power of combining modern technology with traditional investigative methods.”
The use of consumer DNa testing platforms like GEDmatch and FamilyTreeDNa has revolutionized cold case investigations. However, it also raises important ethical questions about privacy and consent. Experts in the field, including those at Ramapo’s IGG, have called for transparent guidelines to balance the benefits of genetic genealogy with respect for individual rights.
The Goodsell case underscores how public cooperation and responsible use of DNa databases can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. a s more individuals opt to share their genetic information, investigators gain invaluable tools for solving mysteries once thought unsolvable.
Ramapo College’s genealogy center has been instrumental in solving numerous cold cases, including identifying partial remains in other parts of New Jersey. Since its launch in late 2022, the program has consulted on 92 cases and successfully identified more than a dozen human remains nationwide.
“The combination of cutting-edge science and meticulous detective work provides hope that other cold cases, even those thought unsolvable, may eventually yield answers,” said a spokesperson for the genealogy center.
Goodsell’s story, however, resonates deeply with South Jersey residents, tying together local history, maritime tragedy and scientific innovation.
The identification of Captain Henry Goodsell brings a sense of closure to a mystery that spanned nearly two centuries. For the families connected to this story, it’s a testament to the enduring power of science and determination. For South Jersey, it’s a poignant reminder of the region’s rich maritime history and the resilience of its communities.
By Meteorologist Joe Martucci
Hurricane season begins on June 1. Really, in New Jersey, we like to say that there’s a 12-month hurricane season. after all, it’s the water,
not the wind, that causes the most devastation, and nor’easters bring plenty of water.
Sadly, the 30-year average for flood deaths is 113 a year, compared to 78 for winds in the United States, according to the National Weather Service. Safety, preparation and information are at the top of every meteorologist’s mind, including the fine folks at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Fla. Every year they come out with new products, updates and changes to keep you as safe as possible from hurricane season,
which will end officially on Nov. 30.
This year, there are six. They range from rip currents to wind forecasts, to the change in the size of the forecast cone that you see. Here are the updates below, including how you’ll be able to see them.
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The forecast cone is the essential part of understanding what is going on with a tropical system. The cone shows the forecasted path, along with data on location, movement, wind speed as well as watches and warnings.
Before 2024, only the coast was outlined in the applicable watches and warnings (Tropical Storm Watch, Hurricane Warning, etc.) on the map. However, these alerts often went well inland and there was no way to see that on the map.
that if you lived in those counties, saw a news segment on it, or dug deep into the National Hurricane Center website. However, last year, you could see it right on the map. Of course, Helene brought catastrophic flooding to western North Carolina — $79 billion in damages were estimated to have occurred, according to the National Hurricane Center.
When a tropical storm or hurricane is active in the atlantic Hurricane Basin, the National Hurricane Center will provide rip current risk information on a national map. This also includes places like Puerto Rico and Guam.
The rip current risks will be provided for the day of and the next day, along with a map showing the highest risk over the next two days. This is really for people who want a more national view of what’s happening.
Last year, the NHC added all areas that were in watches and warnings to the map, whether they were a coastal county or not on an experimental basis. This year, they continue to keep it, but “will now contain the symbology for areas where a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning are simultaneously in effect (diagonal pink and blue lines).
So, if the Jersey Shore counties were in a hurricane warning, and the inland New Jersey counties were in a tropical storm warning, all of the counties would be colored in on the map. If atlantic County were in a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning, it would have a diagonal pink and blue line over the county. This came in handy during Hurricane Helene last September. Tropical storm watches were in effect as far inland as western North Carolina.
Before 2024, you would only know
Our National Weather Service local offices have put out rip current and surf information for years. you can also check out my Sea and Sand video forecasts for Jersey Shore specific information. However, this is a great way to see the risks in one place.
June, July, October and November can bring tropical storms or even hurricanes that quickly develop and make landfall on the East Coast. Tropical Storm Fay made landfall at the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge at the far southern end of Long Beach Island at around 4 p.m. on July 10, 2020. It became a tropical storm just 23 hours earlier. However, the hurricane center knew Fay would hit New Jersey as a tropical storm even before it became a tropical system.
This update is for situations like this. The National Hurricane Center can issue tropical cyclone advisory products, like forecast updates, watches and warnings, 72 hours before the storm surge or wind hit land, regardless of the storm’s status at the time. Last year, it was 48 hours. So, this is an extension of it.
The category of a tropical system is based upon the maximum sustained wind speed. However, tropical storm force winds (39 mph or greater) or hurricane force winds (74 mph or greater) can extend for long stretches beyond the core of the storm.
you have to dig through the hurricane center’s website for it, but they do forecast the size of tropical cyclone wind fields in each of the storm’s four quadrants: northeast (most destructive part), southeast, southwest and northwest).
In the past, the hurricane wind radius forecasts went out 48 hours. This year, it will go out 72 hours, a testament to the improving accuracy of hurricane forecasting. To find this, search for the “Tropical Cyclone Forecast/advisory product” when a storm is active. It’s abbreviated as TCM, too.
Most of the above updates are due to the impressive work done by the meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center. Hurricane forecasts have become better with time, allowing more useful information to be given to you, with bigger lead times. Each year, the hurricane center updates the size of their track forecast error cone. This is based on the accuracy of the storm’s track over the past five years.
This year, the size of the cone for the atlantic Hurricane Basin will be smaller at seven of the nine forecast
periods from 3 to 120 hours out. This includes all periods 24 hours and later. The most significant will be a 6% reduction in size for the 60-hour and 96-hour forecast.
a s an example, a larger cone in 2024 could have atlantic City on the edge. However, thanks to this improvement, atlantic City could be out of the cone. That has huge implications for emergency management operations, evacuations and more.
The forecast cones show where there’s a 66% chance of the storm’s center making landfall. This is important. It does not indicate where the impact of the storm will be, and it’s
not guaranteed. a gain, though, the National Hurricane Center has made big gains in forecasting the track of tropical storms and hurricanes.
The likelihood of a certain height of storm surge hitting a coastline is now operational in Hawaii. It’ll be initiated by the National Hurricane Center’s Storm Surge Unit and made available within 72 hours of hurricane impacts. Storm surge forecast maps began on the mainland United States in 2016.
If you go to my youTube or Facebook pages (@JoeMartWx), catch a special interview with Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center. It’s all part of the Tidal Flooding Talk show I co-host with Dan Skeldon (a familiar name to many), and Palma Shiles as part of the New Jersey Coastal Coalition. When you have 30 minutes, give it a watch or listen.
Joe Martucci, a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist and Digital Meteorologist, is the President and Director of Meteorology for Cup A Joe Weather and Drone. You can connect with him at cupajoe.live.
Photos by Cindy Christy Fertsch
By Steffen Klenk
Preparations are underway as Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Egg Harbor Township is set to host its 41st annual Greek Festival this coming weekend. Tens of thousands are anticipated to file in for the four-day event, known for serving up authentic Greek food and favorites the entire family will love. adding to the excitement will be amusement rides, Greek merchandise, raffle drawings, and the return of fireworks.
Inside the kitchen, nearly a dozen diligent volunteers have been making the pastries that will be served up for the weekend-long event. Kelly Kyriakou is one of the confectioners. “ you’ve got to take pride in your work.”
Over the past two weeks, Kyriakou has been preparing savory desserts such as galaktoboureko, cream custard baked in crispy golden dough, known as filo, topped with succulent syrup. We asked what makes this dessert particularly special. “It’s the taste of the cream and the consistency with the filo and syrup on top,
and everything all together. It’s just beautiful.”
a nother popular dessert item on the menu is baklava, a blend of delicate spices and crushed walnuts, layered in flaky filo with butter and syrup topping. Or enjoy some warm and delicious loukoumades. The donuts are fried in honey syrup and dusted with cinnamon. It is truly a taste bud sensation. a nd despite the long lines, it is hard to pass up the gyro stand at Greek Fest. Each dish includes slices of lamb, beef, or chicken, and is topped with tomatoes, onions, and zesty tzatziki sauce, served on warm pita bread. No matter what you are craving, Greek Fest will have something for every palate.
Each day of the event will feature an incredible lineup of entertainment. attendees can enjoy Greek dancing from its junior and adult dance groups all weekend long, and DJ Khan will be spinning all your favorite Greek tunes Saturday night starting at 7 p.m. amusement rides will also be open throughout the duration of the event, with special discounted ride tickets all day Thursday and on Sunday.
will be a nice addition.” a ttendees can also enjoy daily church tours starting at 6 p.m. There will be plenty of raffle drawings, including a 50/50, and this year’s Grand Raffle winner will ride away with this year’s prize: an X-Pro Milos 50 Moped. a n event such as this takes plenty of planning and organization. Sacco credits the countless staff and volunteers who dedicate their time to make Greek Fest a success. “It is a big event; we can’t do it alone.”
The Holy Trinity Greek Festival runs Thursday, June 5 – Sunday, June 8. Hours are Thursday and Friday from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday 12 to 11 p.m., and Sunday 12 to 10 p.m. The church is located at 7004 Ridge avenue in Egg Harbor Township. admission is only $1 at the door, and children under 5 are free. There
will be plenty of free parking for all who attend.
For more information, including a complete event schedule and food menu, visit www.holytrinityeggharbor.com.
This year will also mark the return of a magnificent fireworks show that will light the night sky on Thursday and Sunday evening. athena Sacco says the display is returning thanks to overwhelming demand. “People were disappointed last year, but we’re going to bring it back, and I think it
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.
Multi-day Events
Gateway Playhouse Presents: ‘South Pacific’
▶Friday, May 30-Sunday, June 8
738 Bay ave., Somers Point
This show brings the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein to life combined with Michener’s Pulitzer-Prize winning book, “Tales of the South Pacific.” The plot centers on an american nurse stationed on a South Pacific Island during World War II who falls in love with a French expatriate. Showtimes are Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 1 at 2 p.m. additional show times through June 8. Visit www. gatewaybythebay.org for more information.
Holy Trinity Greek Festival
▶Thursday, June 5-Sunday, June 8
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 7004 Ridge ave., Egg Harbor Township
The 41st a nnual Greek Festival is less than a week away. Prepare for a full weekend of fun, with all of your favorite Greek food, homemade pastries, Greek music by DJ ahmed Khan, Greek dance performances, amusement rides and more. Free parking. For more information, visit
www.holytrinityeggharbor.com and click on the calendar page.
Thursday, May 29
Celebrate! An Evening with The Arc of Atlantic County ▶6-9:30 p.m.
Golden Nugget, 723 Huron ave., atlantic City
Join The arc of atlantic County as they kick off summer with a casual evening on The Deck, overlooking the Farley Marina. Guests can look forward to live music and dancing,
chef-curated food, specialty drinks and mocktails, and exciting silent auction items and a 50/50. Support friends and neighbors in your community. For more information, contact Mary at mmoyer@thearcatlantic.org.
Artists Reception at Noyes Galleries at Seaview ▶6-7:30 p.m.
401 S. New york Road, Galloway Noyes Galleries invites the public to see the newest group exhibition, featuring artists from the Ocean City Fine arts League. Enjoy light fare and live
music by Dan Barry while witnessing the art of Wanda Kane, Donna Mindish, Paula Pagliughi, Rae Jaffe and Linda Crane. The exhibition will be on display through July 13. admission is free. Stand-Up Comedy Night at Gregory’s ▶7 p.m.
900 Shore Road, Somers Point Join Gregory’s and Count on Comedy for an evening of laughs and good times, with comedians Zachary Pickett and Brandon Ficara. Tickets are $15 and are available at the door or via Eventbrite.
Broadway and All That Jazz Concert
▶7 p.m.
Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson ave.
This free concert will feature a seven-piece band playing Broadway tunes that became jazz classics. The concert will take place in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. Seating is first come first served.
Saturday, May 31
Brutus Fluke Tournament
▶6 a.m.-3 p.m.
Egg Harbor Township Elks Lodge, 1815 Somers Point-Mays Landing, Road
The 27th a nnual Brutus Fluke Tournament will be held next weekend. This perch and striper tourney will feature cash prizes and a dozen non-cash prizes. Proceeds will benefit EHT Elks Lodge No. 2563 and Somers Point aMVETS Post No. 911. For more information, email brutusboy6665@ aol.com or go to www.facebook.com/ BeutusFlukeTournament.
OC Pride Fest
▶9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sixth St. and the Boardwalk, Ocean City
We Belong Cape May County is hosting its 3rd annual OC Pride Fest. The event will begin with a Boardwalk Pride Walk with special guests Craig and Vince from Gables of Cape May County. Family fun, music and resources will follow next to the Civic Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuckerton Porchfest
▶11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Downtown Tuckerton
Porchfest is a townwide community music festival where members of the community offer up their front porches as DIy concert venues. Talented performers will play rotating sets and artists will display their work throughout the neighborhood during this day-long celebration of music, art, poetry and community. Confirmed porch locations include The Union Market; Tuckerton Seaport, 149 E. Main St.; The Grapevine, 131 E. Main St.; and Elliot’s Barber Shop. Rain date: Sunday, June 1. Learn more at www.facebook.com/tuckertonporchfest.
Galloway Summer Kickoff
Food Truck Festival
▶2-6 p.m.
300 E. Jimmie Leeds Road
Get ready for an afternoon of delicious food, live music and family fun at Galloway’s annual Food Truck
and Craft Festival. Enjoy live music by Cheers The Band, a Beer and Wine Garden by 279 Social Kitchen and Craft Bar, craft vendors, kids activities and more. Bring your appetite, friends and family to this summer kick-off event. admission is free. Rain date: Sunday, June 1.
Hello Summer Bonfire in Brigantine
▶7-9 p.m.
26th Street Beach
Join the Brigantine Chamber of Commerce for a fun evening with friends, family and neighbors. There will be live music provided by the adam Holcombe Duo, s’more stations and special Bonfire swag available for purchase.
Sunday, June 1
Le Tour de Downbeach
▶9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Newport ave. Ventnor to Tomatoes in Margate
This Sunday, join the Boardwalk peloton and wave the yellow shirts as Le Tour de Downbeach returns. The race will begin behind the Ventnor Library, travel through atlantic City and proceed through Margate and Longport, ending at Tomatoes on amherst ave. Pre-registration is open now. Participants can sign up or learn more at www.margatehasmore.com.
DVFC 68th Annual BBQ and Craft Fair
▶12-6 p.m.
Dorothy Vol. Fire Co., 70 Tuckahoe Road
Join the Dorothy Volunteer Fire Company for their annual fundraiser. Enjoy an amazing barbecue and appearances from local craft vendors. Eat in or take out. Plus, enjoy a horseshoe toss and cornhole, an ap -
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pearance from Smokey Bear, basket auction and BBQ raffle. Visit www. facebook.com/DorothyVolunteerFireCompany for more information.
Michael Pedicin Quartet
▶2 p.m.
Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson ave.
Join the Michael Pedicin Quartet as they play the music of Ridl, Potter, and Calderazzo, featuring Jim Ridl on the piano, andy Lalasis on bass and Tim Horner on the drums. This free concert will take place in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. Seating is first come first served.
Tuesday, June 3
Thoughts From the Bookshelf
▶3 p.m.
Margate Library, 8100 atlantic ave.
Join Pat Goldstein for a monthly book gathering. This month, the group will discuss “French Braid” by anne Taylor. The insightful novel shares a funny, joyful journey into one family’s life and their many fundamental assumptions. RSVP by May 30 by contacting Tina Serota at tserota@ jfsatlantic.org or 609-287-8872.
Senior Dance Society
▶7:30-10 p.m.
Somers Point Fire Co. No.1, 447 Bethel Road
Come join in the fun and enjoy an evening of dancing with live musical duos every Tuesday. activities include social dancing, line dancing, dance mixers and more. For more information, contact Sharon at kookiecar@ yahoo.com.
Wednesday, June 4
Holocaust Survivor Day
▶5 p.m.
Marjorie and Lewis Katz JCC auditorium, 501 N. Jerome ave.
Join Holocaust Survivor Michael Bornstein in honoring local survivors, incorporate community connection and explore generational wisdom. RSVP by June 2 by emailing info@ jewishbytheshore.org.
Somers Point Pinochle Club
▶6-8:30 p.m.
Somers Point Senior Center, 22 N. ambler Road
The Pinochle Club gathers every Wednesday night throughout the year to play. all are welcome to join. Clamming on Lakes Bay in the ’60s
▶7 p.m.
Egg Harbor Township Community Center, 5045 English Creek ave.
Join the Greate Egg Harbor Township Historical Society for a presentation on Clamming in Lakes Bay in the ’60s with Jake Glassey.
Harlem Wizards vs. Absecon Schools
▶7 p.m.
a bsegami High School, 201 S. Wrangleboro Road Galloway
The World-Famous Harlem Wizards invite families to join them for a night of tricks, hoops and alley-oops as they face off against the staff of absecon Schools. Doors open at 6 p.m. General admission tickets are $17; student tickets are $15. Tickets can be purchased online at www. harlemwizards.com/tickets/absecon.
Friday, June 6
Brunch and Learn: Jewish Community Life in the Digital Age
▶10:30 a.m.
Katz JCC auditorium, 501 N. Jerome ave. Margate
Join Rabbi Jack Menaker in ex-
ploring modern trends in the digital age, specifically the major impact on online modalities. Explore the intersection of tradition and technology and its influence on modern Jewish life. Light brunch will be served. RSVP by June 2 by contacting Tina Serota at tserota@jfsatlantic.org or 609-287-8872.
Ventnor Color Run
▶5-7:30 p.m.
Ski Beach
Get ready for the VECC Color Run, the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Ventnor Home and School a ssociation. The evening will include a three-lap or 1-mile fun run, with music by DJ Will, bites from Di’s Dogs and Burgers and the epic Chalk Toss. Registration is open now at www.veccnj.org/homeschoolassociation. For questions, email VHSa@veccnj.org.
Sunday, June 8
Paws and Pours
▶10 a.m.-2 p.m.
anchorage Tavern, 823 Bay ave.
Somers Point
Join Tito’s and anchorage Tavern for a tail-waggin’ good time. The event will include games, prizes, giveaways and more to support Beacon animal Rescue. Meet and greet adoptable pups, enjoy a doggie fashion show, paw-some photo booth and other festivities. Weather permitting.
Longwood Gardens and Brandywine Art Museum
▶Saturday, June 14, 8 a.m.
The Ocean City arts Center will host a bus trip to two exciting points of interest in Chester County, Pa. Explore Longwood Gardens, with over 1,100 acres of meadows, gardens and woodlands and a 4-acre historic conservatory. The Brandywine art Museum is home to a distinguished collection of 20th-century american art housed in a renovated 19th-century mill. Cost is $112 per person and includes all admissions. Call 609-3997628 to reserve your seat.
Phillies vs. Yankees in New York
▶Saturday, July 26 at 10 a.m.
EHT Recreation is hosting a bus trip to see the Phillies as they take on the yankees in the Bronx. The bus will depart EHT Community Center at 10 a.m. Game time is 1:05 p.m. Cost is $125 per person and includes round trip transportation, ticket, and a $20 food voucher. Register online at www.ehtrec.com or call the Recreation Office at 609-272-8120.
▶Saturdays, 11 a.m.
atlantic Community Wellness Center, 1125 atlantic ave. Suite 617, atlantic City
The atlantic County Wellness Center hosts a weekly gratitude-themed group. Participants discuss, enhance and deepen their practice of gratitude, which is shown to reduce stress, improve mood and increase optimism. For more information, call 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@ mhanj.org.
Monday Meditation and Stretching
▶Mondays, 11:30 a.m.
Mental Health a ssociation in atlantic County 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway
The atlantic County Wellness Center provides a weekly 20-minute meditation, follow-up discussion, and light stretch on Mondays. For more information, call 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
Depression and Anxiety Group
▶Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.
For applications & schedule go to: Margatehasmore.com
Registration will begin at Newport Ave , & Boardwalk Cycling helmets for children &
Family Ride: 12 milesStart Newport Ave , Ventnor; turn around Atlantic City;
Point turnaround, end at
SUNDAY
RAIN DATE JUNE 8TH
PRE-REGISTRATION:
DAY-OF-RACE
Barbeque at Tomatoe's All participants are invited! Music from USA DJ and water ice from Margate Dairy Bar & Burger. NO REFUNDS
atlantic Community Wellness Center, 1125 atlantic ave. Suite 617, atlantic City
This weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness and recovery. Meetings are led by peers who have lived experience. No cost to participate. Offered by the Mental Health a ssociation in atlantic County. For more information, call 609-6523800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
Dementia Support Group
▶Wednesday, June 4, 1:30 p.m.
6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, Mays Landing
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 Family Support and Connection Meeting
▶Monday, June 9, 7-8:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point
Open to family members, caregivers, and loved ones 18+. Participants gain the support of peers who understand their experiences and gain insight into others’ challenges and successes. Visit www.namiacm.org or call 609-741-5125 for more information.
MHA Atlantic Family Meetings
▶Thursday, June 12, 10 a.m. These virtual support groups and educational programs are for
individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. Day and evening meetings include an educational segment as well as support in the form of stress-reduction, self-care, resources and advocacy. Meetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday, and 7 p.m. every third Wednesday. Contact Gail Christian at 609-652-3800 ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj.org to receive a meeting link.
Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.
By Tammy Thornton
Carl Rosner has worn many hats during his lifetime: bakery owner, soldier, carpenter, food and beverage manager, bonsai collector, and illustrator. Today, at the age of 95 years young, his long-term students have a different title for him — beloved art teacher.
Born in atlantic City, Rosner worked every summer as a baker’s helper before graduating from atlantic City High School. He then went on to study at the Pratt Institute in Manhattan and had aspirations to become an illustrator. Rosner was working for a magazine called “U.S. Camera annual” when duty called, and he served in the United States army during the Korean War.
a fter serving time in the a rmy, Rosner fell in love and got married. He learned yet another trade from his father-inlaw and brother-in-law, who were furriers. after a year in the fur business in New york, Rosner went back to his roots and love of baking. He purchased Michel’s Bakery across from Casel’s Marketplace in Margate. The business became a family affair, and his wife, sister, brother-in-law, father, and kid brother worked in the bakery. Their business grew into several locations, including an ice cream parlor. Carl and his wife, Marilyn, worked long hours during the summers while balancing raising their children. Winters in seasonal South Jersey were slow, so Rosner put into practice another skill and did carpentry work during the long, cold winters.
Mr. Rosner eventually decided to leave the family business and began
working for the legendary Zaberer’s Restaurant on the Black Horse Pike near atlantic City. Rosner worked closely with the owner, Charles Zaberer. although Rosner started as a baker, he eventually worked his way up to being the head of food and beverage as well as purchasing agent for the iconic restaurant. Rosner worked for Zaberer’s Restaurant for over 18 years.
Charles Zaberer had been a
cartoonist and did all the illustration work for the advertisements for Zaberer’s Restaurant. Mr. Zaberer’s untimely death in 1971 due to cancer was a terrible blow to all who worked with him. after Zaberer's passing, Rosner took on more responsibilities, including taking on the role of preparing all of the artwork for the restaurant. This included newspaper advertisements, billboards, menus and brochures. among his large portfolio of artwork, Rosner also painted a portrait of Charles Zaberer, which hung in the “Charles Zaberer Room” after Zaberer’s death. Rosner remembers his time at Zaberer’s Restaurant fondly and says that it was “the best job I ever had besides painting.” along the way, Rosner added oil painting to his repertoire of talents. He taught weekly workshops from 1986 to 2002 and has been giving private lessons since 2003. During this time, he has won numerous
awards for his painting. Rosner's artwork has been displayed in absecon at the Ram's Head Inn Gallery, in Stone Harbor at William Ris Galleries, and in atlantic City at the Tropicana Casino Gallery and the Caesars Casino Gallery. Rosner has sold over 1,000 paintings, including over 400
commissioned paintings. These paintings are now in private collections throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Germany, England, South africa, and Japan. Currently, he focuses on painting miniatures (over 460 to date) and enjoys giving them to friends.
Though Rosner has seen heartache in his full life, including losing an adult daughter and also his beloved wife of 68 years, he has a positive outlook and exudes a zest for life. He has almost two decades’ worth of stories from his time at Zaberer’s Restaurant. His students enjoy their lessons as much for the friendship and good company as well as the talent he can pass on to them. His work includes seascapes, still lifes, monograms, portraits, and westerns. If you would like more information about Mr. Rosner and his art classes, he can be reached at arteacher3725@ yahoo.com.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
Brigantine Summer Concert Series
▶Wednesday, June 4, 7 p.m.
Brigantine Community Center 265 42nd St.
Brigantine Community Education and Recreation will host a free outdoor concert on the Community Center lawn this Wednesday. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the sounds of Lighthouse 8 . In the event of rain, all concerts will be held the following Thursday. For more information, call the recreation office at 609-264-7350 ext. 1.
Live Jazz at the Somers Point Beach
▶Friday, June 6, 7 p.m.
William Morrow Beach 800 Bay ave.
Next weekend, the South Jersey Jazz Society presents Jazz on a Spring Evening. Enjoy a free outdoor jazz concert featuring Blue Note recording artist and eight-time Grammy Winner Arturo O’Farrill and his 17-piece Latin Jazz Orchestra. Free will donations to SJJS will be accepted.
Mardi Gras on the Boardwalk
▶Wednesday, June 25, 7 p.m.
Kennedy Plaza 2300 Boardwalk, atlantic City
Mark your calendars for the first Mardi Gras concert of the season in atlantic City. The festivities get underway with a Jammin’ Jersey NOL a Funk Fest, featuring the Ocean Avenue Stompers , and Soul Project NOLA , with special guests Jimmy
Law and Jeremy Kaplan from Dogs in a Pile. For more information, visit tonymart.com.
Somers Point Beach Concert Series
▶Friday, June 13, 7 p.m.
William Morrow Beach 800 Bay ave.
The Somers Point Beach Concert Series kicks off its 32nd Season in just two weeks with the Musical Stars of Late Night TV, featuring Jimmy Vivino from the Conan O’Brien Show, with special guest G.E. Smith from Saturday Night Live. Visit www. somerspointbeachconcerts.com for the full summer lineup.
Ventnor City Summer Beach Jam
▶Saturday, June 28, 6:30 p.m.
Newport avenue Beach
Summer Beach Jams are back. The season will begin on June 28th with music by The Voice of Ventnor Ricky Stevens , and pop and rock by The Usual Suspects . The music begins at 6:30 p.m. Food and crafters will be ready to serve you at 5:30 p.m.
Ventnor City Sunset at Ski Beach
▶Wednesday, June 25, 5:30 p.m.
Dorset & Burk ave.
Mark your calendars for the return of outdoor concerts at Ski Beach. The season kicks off June 25th with Don’t Call Me Francis , playing classics and party hits from the 70s to today. Concerts will be held on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m., with food and crafters ready to serve you at 5:30 p.m.
Family Tides
By Madison Russ
Al Saccoh of Egg Harbor Township was just a boy when Sierra Leone erupted into a decade-long civil war. By the time he arrived in america, he knew all too well how
transformative — and necessary — education could be.
“For 10 years, we had that brutal, senseless civil war, and I was there throughout all that time, and it broke my heart. I witnessed so much suffering and struggling,” said Saccoh.
“When I finally left Sierra Leone in 2000, I lived in Philadelphia with my elder brother. I always wanted to go back to school, but at that time, my education had taken a deep hit because I had been in and out of school for the better part of 10 years.”
Though the war disrupted his education, Saccoh persisted and al -
ways looked for ways to give back. He served as a volunteer firefighter in Philadelphia for a decade and earned a master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
Even though an ocean spanned between him and his homeland, his village was never far from his mind.
“I always wanted to go back and do something. I loved the village. I missed those guys, and it took me about 13 or 14 years or so, and I finally returned to Sierra Leone, and I went back to the village, went to my old school. I came back and founded a nonprofit organization with the aim to help students in those schools,” said Saccoh, noting that in the past, they've helped renovate the school, among other projects.
“at some point, I was taking students from Penn to go volunteer there in the summer, and I did that for two years, and one of the students at Penn won [an agriculture grant] for the community folks. So, we’ve done some really good work," explained Saccoh.
Saccoh eventually turned his focus to bridging the digital divide, realizing
how important it was for children in his home village to have access to computers. Today, the Egg Harbor Township resident’s nonprofit, the Sierra Leone Children’s Fund, collects old laptops, smartphones and tablets that are refurbished, loaded with educational software and shipped to rural primary schools.
“Now, you could do a whole lot of computer courses online; you don’t actually need an instructor there, but you just need the structure to make sure that you have access to the computers and the basic programs and things like that. and that’s the goal pretty much,” said Saccoh.
access to computers not only provides more educational opportunities but also helps students develop life-changing skills.
“In my village, education is your only source of really some kind of hope,” he said. “It could change your life. apart from that, the trajectory of many of these kids is poverty. Their parents are farmers, and farming is labor-intensive. and it’s poor. It’s really poor. It’s substantive farming — whatever you farm, you eat.”
While it’s common for people to set aside old computers or smartphones after upgrading, Saccoh said those discarded devices could “change someone’s life.” If students receive exposure and education and develop skills, they could potentially begin earning an income.
“Those kids could do big things — they just need access to these computers,” he said. “Building a workforce that’s educated has a whole lot of benefit to society.”
Saccoh said they’ve donated about 25 laptops so far — some purchased out of pocket — but it’s a small number compared to the students there. He hopes to not only distribute more laptops to primary students but also expand his efforts to reach secondary students, especially because many of the teens have a strong desire to learn computers.
companies to see what we could do to make sure that we become the recipient of those laptops rather than throwing them away or taking them to landfills,” he said.
“I want to get some computers into their school as well and maybe have a computer lab for those guys in the secondary school,” he said.
To scale the project, Saccoh hopes to partner with businesses willing to donate used laptops in bulk, such as companies upgrading their computer systems.
“We would like to work with those
Such partnerships would mean the nonprofit could focus less on acquiring equipment and more on fundraising efforts to cover essential costs like shipping fees or other initiatives.
He said businesses could also help support the nonprofit’s work through donations or sponsoring programs.
“They could sponsor some other programs, or they could sponsor just programs for a primary school, secondary school, or for girls — I think that will be tremendously helpful,”
he said.
Importantly, Saccoh sees computer literacy as a way to empower girls in Sierra Leone, whom he says are particularly vulnerable.
“I really want to have computer literacy for girls as well because the young girls are much more vulnerable than the boys in villages, and if their parents get to see them learning computers with the prospect of good financial independence or job prospects, then those kids will stay in school,” he said.
He also envisions involving local college students in refurbishing the devices, potentially for college credit and travel abroad opportunities
through grants.
“We could help the student apply for those grants, and they could get to travel to Sierra Leone and do some actual good work,” he said.
But individuals can make an impact, too — even if it’s just donating “$5, $10 or $20,” said Saccoh. anyone with used devices can donate them or even organize a local collection drive.
“It takes a community to build a bigger community, and I’m looking for that support. and I hope people will reach out with suggestions, recommendations, or make a contribution — whatever they can because we’re doing a good job,” he said.
To learn more about the nonprofit, visit slchildren.org.
Madison Russ is an awardwinning journalist, copy editor and adjunct professor of communication based in Atlantic County. An Ocean City native, Madison is passionate about telling stories that matter to locals, often spotlighting nonprofits and exploring the area's vibrant arts scene.
By Steffen Klenk
The city paid tribute to a merica’s fallen service members during its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, May 26.
Hundreds of residents lined Shore
Road as the american Legion Riders led a procession south through the city. The parade featured patriotic performances by the Mainland Regional High School marching band and included appearances by the Mustangs Rowing Team and representatives from aMVETS.
Following the parade, a com -
memorative ceremony took place at Patriots Park. Local officials and dignitaries joined members of the community to reflect on the meaning of the day.
This year’s keynote speaker, U.S. Coast Guard member Mark Hindle, spoke about the importance of remembering those who made the
ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. His remarks served as a reminder that Memorial Day is not just a day to have fun, but a solemn occasion to honor the fallen.
The event continues to serve as a tradition in Somers Point uniting the community in gratitude and remembrance.
The much-anticipated Le Tour de Downbeach returns for its 16th year on Sunday, June 1 at 9:30 a.m. (rain date: June 8), inviting families and cycling enthusiasts to take part in a scenic and spirited ride across absecon Island.
Starting and registering at the Ventnor Library on Newport avenue, participants will enjoy a 12-mile oceanside bike ride that showcases the charm of the Downbeach communities. Riders can kick off the morning with a warm-up and stretch led by Jackie Fox of Fox Fitness 4 you.
The tour begins in Ventnor, travels through atlantic City along the historic boardwalk (with a turnaround in front of Showboat), and loops through Ventnor, Margate and Longport, finishing with a celebration at Tomatoe’s restaurant on amherst avenue in Margate.
This beloved community event
honors the memory of a nn Marie Weisen, one of the event’s original driving forces, with a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
The first 200 riders will receive a commemorative Le Tour de Downbeach t-shirt, and all participants are invited to enjoy a post-ride BBQ at Tomatoe’s, featuring free water ice from Margate Dairy Bar and Burger. Live music will be provided by USaDJ, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Registration details:
● Pre-registration: $25 per rider | $20 each for groups of 4 or more
● Day-of registration: $30 per rider | $25 each for groups of 4 or more
● Sponsorships are available and include placement on riders’ t-shirts.
Hosted by the Margate Business a ssociation and the Ventnor Business a ssociation, Le Tour de Downbeach has grown from its roots as the Tour de Ventnor in 2008 into a cherished spring tradition.
Register online at www.margatehasmore.com
Ocean City enjoyed a spectacular Memorial Day Weekend, and a summer of fun will kick into high gear with a full calendar of special events in June. Here are some of the highlights:
June 4 – Farmers Market: The popular weekly Farmers Market opens for the season early this year with fresh local produce on sale at the grounds of the Ocean City Tabernacle (along a sbury avenue between Fifth Street and Sixth Street) from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Wednesday starting on June 4. The market also includes craft vendors set up in the street on the adjacent 500 block of a sbury avenue.
June 6-8 – Ocean City Flower Show: See beautiful commercial, amateur and children’s displays at the Ocean City Music Pier. Show times are 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
June 14 – Emergency Responder 5K: Formerly known as the “Cop Chase,” this new event will include 5-kilometer and 1-mile events starting on the Boardwalk and finishing
on the OCHS track. Kids’ events will be on the field. Register at ocnj.us/ race-events.
June 21 – Health, Fitness & Wellness Expo: The free event features health food, fitness classes, speakers, vendors and more from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier.
June 21 – Antique Auto Show :
More than 300 vintage vehicles will be on display from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Ocean City Tabernacle grounds (Sixth and a sbury) then move to the Boardwalk for a parade. For more information, visit jerseycape.aaca.com. June 22 – Brian Stokes Mitchell Performing With the Ocean City Pops: Two-time Tony award winner
Brian Stokes Mitchell will be featured in the opening concert of the 2025 Ocean City Pops summer season. He received Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle awards for his star turn in “Kiss Me, Kate.” He also gave Tony-nominated performances in “Man of La Mancha,” august Wilson’s “King Hedley II,” and “Ragtime.” The show is at 7:30 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice.
June 23-24 – The Beach Boys: The 2025 Boardwalk Summer Concert Series at the Ocean City Music Pier opens with four shows by the
legendary Beach Boys. Concerts begin at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday. Tickets available at etix. com.
June 29 – Ocean City Pop’s Opening Night Jukebox: Maestro Vince Lee will take you on a whirlwind tour of the wide variety of genres that the Pops is famous for. Show is at 7:30 p.m. at the Music Pier. Tickets available at oceancityvacation.com/ boxoffice.
June 30 – Killer Queen: a premier tribute to the music of Queen begins at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at etix.com.
By Steffen Klenk
Ocean City celebrated the unofficial start of summer on Friday, May 23, with its annual Unlocking of the Ocean ceremony. Crowds gathered by the Music Pier to take part in the festive tradition, which began with the National anthem, performed by Miss Ocean City 2025, Taylor Mulford.
Students from Cumberland Regional High School's Performing arts program followed with a lively rendition of “Under the Boardwalk,” setting the tone for the symbolic unlocking. a giant key was then turned in the sand to officially “unlock” the sea, marking the beginning of the summer season.
Following the ceremony, hundreds of local business owners — dressed in full business attire — marched into the ocean to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance” for the annual Business Persons Plunge. The spirited procession was led by Shelly the South Jersey Shore Mermaid.
While skies were slightly overcast and the ocean temperature hovered around 58 degrees, spirits remained high. area businesses are hopeful for a successful and bustling summer ahead.
From best-selling books to workshops, and from online resources to children’s activities, the Ocean City Free Public Library has something for everyone this spring.
By Steffen Klenk
owntown Ocean City welcomed a new addition to its retail landscape last weekend with the official opening of Stainton’s Kids. Located at 910 a sbury ave., the store is designed as a family-friendly shopping destination, offering a wide range of children's clothing, accessories, toys and gifts.
a candy bar offers a sweet treat for young shoppers.
Visitors will find everything from books and greeting cards to art supplies, LEGOs, and Play-Doh. a colorful Crayola display and interactive LEGO workshop area encourage kids to get creative, while
Stainton’s Kids features more than 30 vendors, including both national brands and local businesses. The store is the latest expansion of the Stainton’s Family of Stores and aims to provide a space where families can shop, play and connect.
For more information, including hours of operation and vendor details, visit www.staintons.com/staintons-kids or follow @StaintonsKids on social media.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
www.oceancitylibrary.org 1735 Simpson Ave. | (609) 399-2434
HOURS Mon.-Fri. 9am-9pm Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm
CURBSIDE PICKUP Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-4pm • Sun. 11am-4pm
By Madison Russ
For those enjoying a meal of clams or oysters at home, discarded shells no longer need to end up in the trash, thanks to an initiative aimed at restoring and enhancing local oyster reefs.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Fish and Wildlife recently announced the opening of its first two public shell drop-off locations: one at the Knife & Fork Inn in atlantic City and another at the Shelter Road Recycling Center in Ocean City, according to a press release from the Ocean City Department of Public Works.
a nyone can drop off leftover shells into the bins, which are then collected, cured and used to rebuild natural reefs that support wild oyster populations.
according to the department’s Shell Recycling Program website, the NJDEP’s Marine Resources administration (MR a), Jetty Rock Foundation, Rutgers Cooperative Extension and Stockton University initially agreed to partner on a conceptual shell recycling program based in atlantic City in 2019. The program was developed after Hard Rock Hotel and Casino expressed interest in recycling shells to enhance oyster habitats in the region.
Since then, the program has expanded to partner with several restaurants across atlantic and Cape May counties.
In 2022 alone, over 90 tons of recycled shells were collected from five restaurant partners, according to an
annual collection report by the MR a
MR a staff collect shells from participating restaurants and venues each week and transport them to the Nacote Creek Research Station in Port Republic. The shells then undergo a six-month curing process to eliminate any potential diseases that could be harmful to native oysters, according to the program website.
Once cured, the shells are loaded onto a barge and delivered to the Mullica River — home to one of the last self-sustaining oyster populations on the atlantic coast. MR a staff then use high-pressure water cannons to deploy the cured shells onto the river’s reefs.
Through these efforts, hundreds of tons of recycled oyster shells and shells from other sources have been added back to these reefs to date. The shells provide the hard surfaces oyster larvae need to attach, grow and form new reef structures.
When oysters are harvested,
both the oysters and their habitat — their shells — are removed. Without enough hard substrate for larvae to settle on, populations can struggle to sustain themselves over time.
Eastern oysters are considered a "keystone species," meaning they play a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Restoring oyster reefs offers environmental benefits such as reducing coastal erosion, improving habitats and water quality and sup -
porting fisheries.
Those looking to join the efforts can drop off their empty shells at the Shelter Road Recycling Center at 1 Shelter Road, located off Tennessee avenue in Ocean City. The site is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.
For more information, visit dep. nj.gov/njfw/fishing/marine/shell-recycling-program.
Brigantine Farmers Market
▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Brigantine Community School
parking lot Sheridan Blvd.
The Brigantine Farmers Market will be open to customers on Saturdays, rain or shine, through Sept. 6. For more information, visit www. facebook.com/brigantinefarmersmarket.
EHT Community Farmers Market
▶Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
atlantic County Library 1 Swift Dr.
Just Organics Marketplace and Honeytree Health host a Community Farmers Market on Sundays, featuring a variety of local pesticide-free farmers, food vendors, artists, crafters, music, and fun activities. Support family farmers. Markets open Sundays through aug. 24. For more information, visit thehoneytree.net or
e-mail wellness@thehoneytree.net.
Galloway Green Market
▶Thursday, June 26, 4 – 7 p.m.
Historic Smithville Village Greene 615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
Go Green Galloway hosts their weekly Green Market, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade crafts, specialty breads and more. Markets open Thursdays from June 26 – Sept.
4. Visit gogreengalloway.org/greenmarket for information and updates.
Margate Community Farmers Market
▶Thursday, June 12, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Steve and Cookies Parking Lot 9700 amherst ave.
The Margate Farmers Market is preparing to open for the 2025 season. Markets will be open Thursdays from June 12 – aug. 28. For more information, visit margatehasmore. com.
Ocean City Farmers Market
▶Wednesdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Ocean City Tabernacle Grounds a sbury avenue from 5th – 6th Streets
Visit dozens of vendors on the grounds of the Tabernacle, and crafters in the street at 6th & a sbury ave. Wednesdays from June 4 – Sept. 3. For more information, call 1-800-BE aCH-NJ or visit oceancityvacation.com.
Somers Point Farmers Market
▶Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Somers Mansion 1000 Shore Rd.
The Somers Point Farmers Market is open for the 2025 season. Dozens of local food vendors, crafters, and hometown businesses will set up on the grounds of historic and beautiful Somers Mansion each week. Markets are open on Saturdays through Sept. 6. For more information, go to visitsomerspoint.com.
Ventnor City Farmers Market
▶Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Newport & atlantic ave.
Entering its 9th season, the Ventnor City Farmers Market is one of the most delightful places to shop on Fridays. The parking lot at St. James Church brims with 70+ farmers, food vendors, and crafters who offer fresh, seasonal picks, delicious artisan foods, baked goods, beverages, and beautiful handmade wares. Open Fridays through aug. 29. Visit vcfm. org for more.
By Robin Stoloff
The warmer weather and longer days make it the perfect time to spend more time outdoors, whether you're grilling, gardening or just soaking up some sunshine. So, here’s a simple challenge: get outside and move your body for 30 minutes each day. It doesn’t mean hitting the gym or training for a marathon. Just find ways to move that feel good and fit your lifestyle.
Maybe it’s a leisurely walk after dinner, pulling weeds in your garden, tossing a ball with the kids or dancing barefoot on the patio. The goal is to move more, sit less and enjoy the sun -
shine and outdoors. Start with the next 30 days, and once you get in the groove, chances are you will continue from there.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends about 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. That breaks down to roughly 30 minutes a day, five days a week. This amount of movement can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and even some cancers. Plus, it boosts your mood, improves sleep quality and helps your brain work better.
feelings of calm and connection. Combining fresh air and movement can work wonders.
and the best part? When you do this outside, the benefits multiply. Research shows that spending time in nature — even just your backyard or a local park — helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure and increase
Don’t call it 'exercise'
Some people cringe at the word “exercise.” It conjures images of painful, out-of-breath, sweaty hours in the gym. Let’s flip the script on that. The word “movement” is much more palatable. you don’t need special equipment or fancy workout clothes. Movement doesn’t have to mean a grueling workout. you just need a little intention — and maybe a comfortable pair of shoes. If working out has never been your thing, this challenge is designed for you.
For example, walking is one of the easiest and most underrated ways to move your body. Grab a friend,
your partner or your dog and take a stroll around the neighborhood after dinner. If you prefer, call a family member and catch up while you walk. This low-impact activity is free, simple and a great way to connect with others or clear your head at the end of the day.
Gardening is another fantastic option. While it might not feel like a workout, pulling weeds, planting flowers or watering vegetables engages your muscles and gets your heart rate up. you’re bending, stretching and lifting — all at a comfortable pace. I have never had a green thumb, but over the past few years I have made it a point to plant some flowers and vegetables, dig in the dirt and get my hands dirty. It is peaceful and exhilarating all at once. Plus, there’s the added bonus of watching your efforts bloom and grow.
If you have kids, keep some outdoor toys handy, such as a frisbee, soccer ball or badminton set, so you can sneak in some playful movement whenever you’re at the park or waiting for practice to end. Playing games outside isn’t just fun — it’s a fantastic way to get moving and maybe even inspire neighbors to join in.
Remember how carefree and joyful play felt as a kid? you can
still capture that spirit by blowing bubbles, jumping rope, riding a bike or running through the sprinkler. Movement doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It can be spontaneous and silly, especially if you’re doing it with children or grandkids.
If you find walks getting boring, try turning them into a game. Make a list of things to spot — such as a red mailbox, a butterfly, a flag, a dog or five squirrels — and check them off as you go. This keeps your mind engaged and makes the time fly by, especially for younger walkers who need a little extra entertainment. I used to play a similar game with my kids, spotting objects for each letter of the alphabet. It made our walks more fun, and before we knew it, we had covered a lot of ground without even realizing it.
Making your daily 30 minutes of activity part of your routine is easier than you might think. Choose a specific time each day to go outside and move. It could be after your morning coffee, during lunch or just before dinner. Linking it to something you already do helps make it stick.
If you like tracking progress, jotting down your activity in a journal or calendar can be surprisingly motivating. Soon, you might find yourself looking forward to checking off your 30 minutes.
Even better, make it social. a walking buddy, gardening partner or a neighbor to toss a ball with can make a big difference on days when the couch is tempting you more than the outdoors. The hardest part is just putting on your sneakers. I often find that movement is the best cure for fatigue — once you get going, you feel so much better.
along with summer days comes summer heat, so be sure to take precautions. Drink plenty of water before and after your activity, especially if you’re out during the warmer parts of the day. Lightweight, breathable clothes will help keep you cooler, and don’t forget the sunscreen. If it gets too hot, shift your movement to early mornings or evenings. you can also find a shady spot or even do some indoor activities that keep you moving if the weather is too intense. always listen to your body. Some days you’ll have more energy than others. Even short bursts of activity, like five minutes here and there, add up. aim for progress, not perfection.
This summer, your health doesn’t have to depend on ambitious fitness goals. It can start with a simple walk around the block, a little time in the garden or a game of catch in the park. These small acts add up, day by day, minute by minute.
So, here’s your challenge: get outside and move for 30 minutes a day. If you have a fitness watch, set a step goal. Find activities that feel good and keep it light, fun and flexible. Start with the next 30 days and see where it takes you. your heart, your mood and your whole body will thank you.
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
By Sarah Fertsch
Whether you’re an avid home cook or simply enjoy fresh flavors, June is the perfect time to explore what’s in season at local farm markets. Here's a guide to top produce available this month, plus three delicious recipes to make the most of your market haul.
South Jersey’s farm markets come alive every summer, offering a variety of seasonal delights. Strawberries are at their peak—juicy, sweet, and perfect for desserts, salads or enjoying fresh. These early summer fruits are a staple at many markets, drawing crowds eager for that fresh-picked flavor.
a sparagus adds a vibrant green hue and earthy taste to any dish. Whether grilled, roasted or sautéed, it's a must-have this month. Spinach, with its tender leaves and rich nutrients, is another June highlight. at its freshest, it makes an excellent base for salads or warm side dishes.
Peas—both sugar snap and snow varieties—bring a crisp, sweet
touch to meals, while radishes offer a peppery crunch. and don’t forget summer squash, including zucchini, which is just beginning to shine in early summer.
Where to shop: Atlantic County farm markets
Ventnor City Farmers Market
Fridays, 8:30 a.m.–noon
Newport and atlantic avenues
This market features fresh produce, baked goods and artisan vendors. a family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great start to the weekend.
Margate Community Farmers Market
Thursdays, 8:30 a.m.–noon
Steve & Cookie’s parking lot
Known for its high-quality local produce, seafood and specialty items, this market is a beloved staple for both locals and visitors.
Atlantic City Farmers Market
Thursdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (late May through September) atlantic and Tennessee avenues
This vibrant market offers everything
from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and local specialties.
Somers Point Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon
Somers Mansion parking lot
This community market features local produce, baked goods and live music in a welcoming setting.
Linwood Farmers Market
Saturdays, 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Central Square Shopping Plaza
With fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers and artisan products, this market also offers live entertainment for a lively experience.
Hammonton Farmers Market
Saturdays, 9 a.m.–noon
Central avenue
Known as the "Blueberry Capital of the World," Hammonton’s market is a must-visit, especially for blueberries in late June.
Recipes to showcase South Jersey’s fresh produce
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
Ingredients:
● 4 cups fresh spinach
● 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
● 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
● 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
● 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
For the dressing:
● 1/4 cup olive oil
● 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
● 1 tablespoon honey
● 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
● Salt and pepper, to taste
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
Ingredients:
● 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
● 2 tablespoons olive oil
● 2 cloves garlic, minced
● Zest and juice of 1 lemon
● 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
● Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, salt and pepper.
3. Spread on a sheet pan and roast for 25–30 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan and bake an additional 10 minutes until crisp and fragrant.
Zucchini Fritters with Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients:
● 2 medium zucchinis, grated
● 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
● 2 eggs, beaten
● 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
● 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
● Salt and pepper, to taste
● Olive oil, for frying For the sauce:
● 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
● 1 tablespoon lemon juice
● 1 clove garlic, minced
● Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place grated zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. In a bowl, mix zucchini, flour, eggs, Parmesan, parsley, salt and pepper.
3. Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Drop spoonfuls into the skillet, flatten slightly. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. For the sauce, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic and salt in a small bowl.
6. Serve fritters warm with the yogurt dipping sauce.
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, feta, almonds and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until emulsified.
3. Drizzle over the salad, toss gently and serve immediately.
Shopping at local farm markets not only guarantees the freshest ingredients but also supports atlantic County farmers and sustainable practices. These markets are more than just places to shop—they’re community hubs that celebrate the region’s agricultural roots.
Grab your reusable bags and explore one of these vibrant markets to savor the best of June’s bounty.
Now Open Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-3pm Sat, Sun 11am-5pm
SCAN FOR TICKETS
By Julia Train
Each summer, thousands of Halloween lovers descend on Egg Harbor Township (EHT) to celebrate the grand opening of Spirit Halloween’s flagship store. The event is a festive tradition, often held at the end of July or early august, where fans line up for hours to be among the first to access exclusive animatronics, costumes and swag.
However, in 2025, the annual kickoff will be missing from the calendar, marking a rare pause in the seasonal spectacle. Spirit Halloween announced via social media that this year’s grand opening at its flagship location has been canceled.
“International disruptions and
supply chain challenges have thrown a wrench in our opening plans,” the company said. “a s a result, we are forced to cancel the Egg Harbor Township grand opening event — but we intend to bring the event back next year.”
The flagship store is located in the Harbor Square shopping center on the Black Horse Pike, a site that has become a pilgrimage spot for Halloween enthusiasts.
In previous years, over 1,500 people would gather under the hot august sun, eager for giveaways, first access to the latest merchandise, carnival games, food trucks and more. Visitors have come from across the country and even Canada, planning vacations around the event and filling local hotels.
The annual opening had grown so popular that people would set up lawn chairs and tents in the parking lot up to two days in advance, but local police eventually had to prohibit camping due to the increasing
Harbor Apartments and Triad Associates have announced that Preliminary Applications are currently being accepted for their Affordable Rental Program, in Egg Harbor Township, NJ To be eligible for an affordable housing rental unit in this region, your household may not exceed the established regional income limits listed below
crowds. Last year’s opening drew fans braving 90-degree heat for a chance to snag limited-edition merchandise and experience the start of the spooky season in style.
Spirit Halloween first opened in California in 1983. In 1999, Spencer Gifts acquired the brand and moved its headquarters to EHT. Since then, Spirit has grown into the nation’s largest seasonal Halloween retailer, operating more than 1,500 pop-up locations across the U.S. and Canada each fall.
Despite the setback at the flagship location, Spirit remains committed to the 2025 Halloween season. The company affirmed that all other Spirit stores are still on track to open beginning in mid-august.
“The engines are on, and we’re full speed ahead. Stay tuned, the best is yet to come,” Spirit said.
The cancellation of the flagship
event reflects broader challenges facing the Halloween industry. The Mt. Laurel-based Halloween & Costume a ssociation (HCa) told Patch.com that tariffs and overreliance on Chinese imports could significantly disrupt the Halloween retail season. Proposed tariffs have been paused for 90 days as of mid-May 2025, but the uncertainty remains.
"This is an existential moment for our industry," said Robert Berman, HCa board member and president of Rasta Imposta/ Imposta Costumes, told Patch. com. "Halloween isn't like other holidays. If products don't land on time or become too expensive for families, Halloween simply doesn’t happen. There is no backup plan."
Even without the flagship celebration, Spirit Halloween remains a beloved tradition for many, symbolizing the start of fall and all things spooky. For EHT, the absence of the kickoff event is a notable shift, but one that fans hope will be short-lived.
Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain
Nineteen of the rental units will be designated as affordable units
The first units are projected to be available by July 2025 They consist of one, two, and three-bedroom units at the very low, low, and moderate-income levels, ranging from $355 95-$1 , 250 55 per month
Interested households must submit a free preliminary application by July 11 , 2025 at 12pm to be included in the lottery randomization that will take place on July 14, 2025 at 1pm Preliminary Applications submitted after this date will be added to the applicant pool in the order that they are received
For details and to submit a Preliminary Application please visit
Contact: housing@triadincorporated com
Naval a ir Station Wildwood (NaSW) aviation Museum announced the upcoming arrival of a Marine Corps icon: aV-8B Harrier II+ BuNo 164554. The aircraft will be part of the museum’s collection and will be on loan from the National Naval aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida. This combat-proven aircraft is scheduled to arrive by truck on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 4 (subject to change based on transport logistics) and will be carefully moved into the museum’s historic 92,000 square foot WWII-era Hangar #1 shortly after arrival. For updates on the move-in process and exhibit information, follow Na S Wildwood aviation Museum on social media or visit usnasw.org. accepted into service on aug. 31, 1993, with Marine attack Squadron VMa -542, the aircraft later served with the renowned VMa-223 “Bulldogs.” During its distinguished career, this Harrier flew 219 Combat Missions and logged 755 Combat Flight Hours In support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Its final flight took place on Dec. 1, 2024, out of MCa S Cherry Point.
over battlefields in ways that few other jets could.
VMa-223’s lineage stretches back to World War II, when it was first commissioned as Marine Fighter Squadron 223 (VMF-223). On aug. 20, 1942, VMF-223 became the first Marine fighter squadron committed to combat during the Battle of Guadalcanal, landing at the embattled Henderson Field and joining the legendary Cactus air Force. In just under
While not the last Harrier operated by the squadron, it remains one of the final actively flown aircraft of its type — a symbol of Marine Corps aviation at its finest.
What makes the aV-8B Harrier II+ so iconic is its ability to perform vertical and/or short take-offs and landings (V/STOL), allowing it to operate from forward operating bases, aircraft carriers, and austere airstrips close to combat zones, without the need for long runways. Designed for close air support, the Harrier could rapidly respond to troops in contact, deliver precision strikes and loiter
two months of fierce aerial combat against seasoned Japanese pilots out of Rabaul, the Bulldogs shot down 83 enemy aircraft, including that of famed Japanese ace Junichi Sasai.
Following Guadalcanal, VMF223 transitioned to the Vought F4U Corsair and continued to serve with distinction in campaigns across the
Philippines and Okinawa, earning two Presidential Unit Citations for their valor. Now, with the arrival of aV8B Harrier II+ BuNo 164554 at Na S Wildwood, on a base that also trained Corsair pilots during WWII, the legacy of the “Bulldogs” comes full circle, bridging 80 years of Marine aviation history in one storied location.
The Importance of lnclusivity in Wealth Management
Written By John Gallagher, Mark
Levin, and Chayse Primeau
Wealth and financial security shouldn't only be attainable for a select few. As we dive into the topic of financial wellness, one essential factor stands out: inclusivity. At Maverick Wealth Partners, we believe that financial wellbeing should be reflective of the diversity of our society.
True financial wellbeing cannot be achieved unless the diverse range of experiences, perspectives, and circumstances found across our society are reflected in the wealth management industry. This isn't just an afterthought or something that's "nice to have"it's a core tenet of effective wealth management.
Prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion is more than just the ethical path forward-it's the key to unlocking independent strategies that work toward propelling economic growth in an effort to benefit all.
While opening more doors into financial wellness is a crucial part of the work that must be done in wealth management, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEi) goes beyond that. It's about extending a tailored invitation to every type of investor. DEi demands a new approach that celebrates the diversity within our communities.
Inclusion empowers us to break away from the onesize-fits-all model, instead offering personalized financial advice that genuinely resonates with clients, inclusive of their various backgrounds. It confronts systemic barriers and unconscious biases that have historically prevented marginalized groups from effectively managing their wealth.
An inclusive strategy welcomes a range of perspectives, enriching decision-making with insights from varied backgrounds and life experiences. This collaborative approach fosters independent solutions that truly align with the needs of everyone. By viewing wealth management through a DEi lens, firms can tap into previously
Financial wellbeing should be a universal aim-making wealth management accessible across all levels of society. As part of the movement toward Wall Street 2.0, we're breaking down barriers and paving pathways where everyone can work toward financial independence. Promoting inclusive financial wellbeing means shaping tools and services to fit each person's unique economic circumstances, not forcing people to conform to rigid, pre-existing models.
Enhancing financial literacy for all is just as crucial as providing access to financial services and products. As we work to equip people with the knowledge and skills to confidently navigate all ranges of personal economic situations, we empower them to thrive wherever life takes them.
Inclusivity in wealth management enables people to design lives built on solid financial foundations. Tailored wealth management approaches allow individuals to outline life plans that align financial
strategies with personal aspirations, whether purchasing a home, starting a business, or anything in between.
Managing wealth isn't a privilege, but a navigational skill-charting courses through economic calm and turbulence. It gives people from all backgrounds the ability to steer toward their envisioned dreams and goals. A panoramic view of wealth management illuminates customized pathways for growth that cut across different socioeconomic terrains
Take the first step towards aligning your wealth with your values. Email John Gallagher at john@maverickpartnerswealth.com for independent, tailored advice.
Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRAISIPC.
Investing involves risk including the potential loss ofprincipal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. This article is an advertisement..
By Sarah Fertsch
ummer in Wildwood wouldn’t be the same without the beloved tram cars gliding along the boardwalk. This year, they’re rolling in with a bold twist: bright yellow Ford Maverick hybrids are taking the reins for the 77th season.
While the look may be unfamiliar, the iconic “Watch the tram car, please” chime remains delightfully intact.
The new Ford Maverick hybrids, unveiled last weekend, represent a shift toward more sustainable and cost-effective operations.
Purchased by the Wildwoods Boardwalk Special Improvement District, the hybrids replace the aging fleet of uniquely shaped vehicles that have delighted generations of visitors.
The transition aims to preserve the tram car
tradition while adapting to contemporary needs. Officials emphasized that the use of the Maverick pickups is part of a test, and it’s unclear whether they will become a permanent fixture.
a mong the options considered was the construction of custom-built replicas of the existing tram cars to maintain their classic appearance. However, an engineering analysis found that the high upfront cost and
significant operational limitations made replicas unaffordable and impractical.
“after an exhaustive engineering analysis, the
upfront cost to construct these units, along with significant operational limitations compared to the current tram cars, made replicas unaffordable and impractical,” the Wildwoods SID said in a statement.
The Ford Maverick hybrid, with a starting price around $35,000 and towing capacity sufficient for the tram trailers, was chosen as a practical and readily available alternative.
The tram cars hold a cherished place in Wildwood’s history. They first gained national attention in 1939 at the World’s Fair in Flushing Meadows, New york, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt inaugurated the event. a decade later, they found a permanent home on the Wildwood Boardwalk and quickly became a quintessential part of the Jersey Shore experience.
While many have welcomed the modernization, some fans have voiced their disappointment on social media, lamenting the loss of the nostalgic look of the original tram cars. Wildwood officials, however, remain optimistic that the hybrid pickups will offer a smoother and more reliable ride.
Tram car service resumes this weekend, with rides operating Saturdays and Sundays beginning at noon. The fare is $5 per person. The schedule aligns with the weekend operations of Morey’s Piers, a longtime staple of Wildwood’s entertainment scene.
a s Wildwood kicks off the summer of 2025, the updated tram cars promise to preserve the spirit of the boardwalk while steering toward a more sustainable future.
By David Weinberg
The crossroad for local boxer
Thomas LaManna is the Las Vegas Strip.
The Millville High School graduate will be fighting former two-division world champion Jermall Charlo (33-0, 22 KOs) in a super-middleweight bout Saturday at the Michelob Ultra arena at Mandalay Bay Resort.
a victory puts LaManna (39-5-1, 18 KOs) in position for a world title bout. a loss essentially ends that dream.
“This is my final shot at greatness,” LaManna said. “I know what’s at stake.”
He’s been toiling in the sport for 15 years, mostly in atlantic City. Twenty-three of his 45 career fights have been on the Boardwalk.
LaManna made his professional debut on February 11, 2011, notching
a first-round TKO over anthony Williams at Bally’s atlantic City.
Four months later, he graduated from Millville High School.
It was also around that time that he earned the nickname “Cornflake.”
a s he tells it, he was given the moniker by a fellow fighter while working out in the gym one day.
“ you ever watched ‘Fresh Prince of Bel air?’” he asked on a PBC video.
“He was the only white dude in the whole series and when I first started boxing, I was the only white dude in the whole gym. I got ‘Cornflake’ stitched on my trunks before one of my fights and it stuck.”
(Fun fact: the late James avery, who played Phillip Banks on the series, was a 1963 atlantic City High School graduate).
LaManna has enjoyed a successful career in terms of longevity and accomplishments. His 39 career victories rank third behind the late Richie Kates (44-6, 23 KOs) and former World Boxing a ssociation heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon (40-8, 36 KOs).
There was a brief point when he walked away. In 2017, frustrated with the politics of boxing, he retired at age 25, but returned three months
later at the urging of family, friends, and New Jersey athletic Control Board Commissioner Larry Hazzard.
“I thought he had a lot of potential that hadn’t been tapped into, yet, and I also told him he wasn’t being fair to his fans,” Hazzard said in an earlier interview. “I didn’t want them to start calling him ‘Cornfake’ instead of ‘Cornflake.’”
a long the way, he’s earned a number of regional and local titles, most recently winning the vacant WBa Gold middleweight crown with a third-round TKO over Juan Carlos abreu at Bally’s last June 8.
But the biggest belt, the one every fighter longs to wrap around his/her waist, has eluded him.
LaManna came up woefully short in his first chance at a world championship. Current WBa middleweight champ Erislandy Lara knocked him out in 1 minute, 20 seconds of their title bout on May 1, 2021 in Carson, California.
Disappointment and depression followed. He gained 50 pounds and lost his desire and focus.
“I came up drastically short against Lara,” he said. “I failed miserably in that fight. Personally, it messed me up and it put my family back with a lot of things. I don’t ever want to go through that again.”
He picked up a quick win in Mexico three months after the Lara fight, then took a year off to rebuild his mind and body before resuming his career with renewed focus.
LaManna enters Saturday night riding a nine-fight winning streak, though none of those fighters is close to Charlo in terms of ability.
Charlo, 35, hasn’t fought in a year and a half, but is still considered a heavy favorite.
“My whole mindset changed after
the Lara fight,” LaManna said. “I didn’t want to fight anymore. But when I decided to come back, I wanted to do it the right way.”
He’s come a long way since that February night in 2011.
The teenager who knocked out a nthony Williams is now 33 years old, with a wife (Christine) and young daughter (Brooklyn).
He’s also become a promoter, helping his mother (Debbie) to build Rising Star Promotions into one of the best organizations on the East Coast.
He will eventually turn all his attention to that role. But not if he can pull off the upset on Saturday. a big win over Charlo could bring all sorts of opportunities, including one more chance at a championship.
Fifteen years since he first stepped into the ring, it’s still all he’s ever wanted from the sport.
“It’s been a long journey to this point and I’m ready to go,” he said. “We all know the task at hand. We all know this is my last shot. But I’m gonna make it my best shot.
“I know what I’m up against. (Charlo) is a two-division world champion. He’s been at the top level. But this is why we fight the fights. We’re gonna upset the apple cart. I’m gonna shock the world.”
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.
By Steffen Klenk
The weather is heating up and the festivities are plentiful throughout South Jersey this weekend. Lynyrd Skynyrd and Heart will rock out in atlantic City, a bonfire on the beach in Brigantine welcomes the summer season and an annual bike marathon rolls through Downbeach. Whatever your plans are, we hope you have a safe and wonderful time, and be sure to read the Wahoo section to find out what’s happening in our area.
Who: Lynyrd Skynyrd
Where: Ocean Casino Resort
When : Friday, May 30
Time: 9 p.m.
Website : www.theoceanac.com/ lynyrd-skynyrd
With over 60 albums and 30 million in sales worldwide, Lynyrd Skynyrd re -
mains a cultural icon appealing to all generations. Known for their bluesy riffs and a touch of country twang, hits such as “Tuesday’s Gone,” “Sweet Home a labama,” and “Free Bird” remain staples of american classic rock. you can hear them in concert at Ovation Hall this Friday.
Who: Fool House: The Ultimate ’90s Party
Where: Borgata Hotel Casino
When : Friday, May 30
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: borgata.mgmresorts.com
Fool House brings the ultimate ’90s dance party to Borgata’s Music Box.
This live concert celebrates the golden age of boy bands, pop stars, hip-hop and pop punk, recreating all of the sights, sounds and high-energy vibes of the 1990s.
Who: The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute
Where: Harrah’s Resort
When : Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31
Time: 7 p.m.
Website : www.caesars.com/ harrahs-ac/shows
Get ready for a weekend of Beatlemania at Harrah’s with two unforgettable nights of Fab Four. With precise attention to detail, this show is elevated above every other Beatles tribute, with costume changes alongside an incredible stage performance. Friday’s show celebrates “The Early years” spanning The Beatles early catalog, while fans can catch “The Later years” on Saturday night.
What : an Evening with Heart
Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
When : Saturday, May 31
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/heart
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013, Heart brings nearly five decades of success to the stage.
The band has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide and has 20 Top 40 singles, with hits like “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Crazy on you” and “These Dreams.” The Wilson sisters, ann and Nancy, bring a talented lineup of musicians together for one unforgettable night of music.
What : Hello Summer Bonfire
merce celebrates the start of the season with a summer bonfire. Stop by the s’mores stations for a sweet treat, soak in the setting with a live musical duo and snag a cozy sweater while soaking up the bonfire vibes.
What : Le Tour de Downbeach
Where: absecon Island
Where: 26th Street Beach, Brigantine
When : Saturday, May 31
Time: 7 p.m.
Website : brigantinechamber. wildapricot.org
Summer is here and there’s no better place to be than hanging outside at the beach with family and friends. The Brigantine Chamber of Com -
When : Sunday, June 1
Time: 9 a.m.
Website : www.margatehasmore. com/event/le-tour-de-downbeach a squad of yellow-shirted pelotons will take over Downbeach this Sunday for the annual Le Tour de Downbeach. This family-friendly 12-mile bike tour takes participants through the sea -
side communities of Ventnor and atlantic City, before traveling south to Longport and finishing at Tomatoes in Margate. Whether you are part of the action of cheering on the participants, this is one race you won’t want to miss.
What : Wine Down Wednesday
Where : Cardinal Restaurant, atlantic City
When : Wednesday, June 4
Time: 6 p.m.
Website: www.cardinal-ac.com
Wine Down Wednesday is the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy exceptional wines. This weekly wine tasting is led by an expert sommelier and features a bold selection of wines from different vineyards each week, with exclusive pours from handpicked wineries. Whether you’re a passionate wine aficionado or just beginning your journey, this event is for you. Must be 21+.
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.
By Scott Cronick
Siblings in the rock world have had their share of issues. From Oasis to the Black Crowes, the world loves a good sibling rivalry.
But, when it comes to Heart, the
Wilson sisters — lead singer ann and her guitar-slinging sis Nancy — are the anomaly.
Celebrating 50 years since Heart released their world-shattering debut “Dreamboat annie,” the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers are back on the road for a summer tour that lands at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in atlantic City 8 p.m. Saturday, May 31.
With more than 35 million albums sold worldwide thanks to 20 Top 40 singles, Heart will bring their chart-dominating anthems like “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Crazy on you,” “These Dreams” and other
timeless fan favorites to atlantic City.
Nancy Wilson took the time to talk about Heart’s five decades and what you can expect on Saturday at Hard Rock.
SCOTT CRONICK: More than five decades later, Nancy Wilson and the gang are back on the road for the summer traveling all over. Do you ever think of what it would be like if you didn’t do this rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle and how long you could sit still?
NANCY WILSON: yeah, 50 years since the first album (“Dreamboat annie”) and the gypsy life … you’re on a tour bus. I don’t know. I mean, being home is nice and you can do your laundry and look at your mail, but not for very long. you really want to get on those stages and rock and exchange that electric energy and the spark that flies between you and the songs and the people that come to see you.
SC: Sounds like a great job?
NW: It’s just like the best job, the only job, it’s my only skill … so, it’s the best job I could possibly have. and I know how to do it.
SC: Yeah, Adam Duritz of the Counting Crows told Howard Stern he didn’t know what he would do because he doesn’t really have any other employable skills.
NW: yeah, that’s what I feel like, too. I mean, Paul McCartney would tell you the same thing.
SC: What’s it like on the road now as opposed 50 years ago?
NW: you have to kind of create the space for yourself to be warmed up and to be really capable of getting out there and moving well and dancing and doing the vocal exercises in advance of getting up on the stage and singing along … doing the yoga stretches and the breathing and the squats and all of that.
It doesn’t get easier. When you’re in your 20s and 30s and 40s, you’re
made out of (more) rubber than you are at our level of experience and age and all that. It’s really a great challenge, but it’s also the most rewarding thing to get right and to go out and be able to have fun and do that. There’s a lot of young people coming out to our shows now. It’s really cool. The word of mouth has been strong. Our show is really a good family show because there’s really young kids, college-age kids and a lot of our older folks that are original Heart fans that are closer to our age. It’s kind of a really cool. It’s like a prayer meeting for rock ’n’ roll … great songs and people singing along. It’s really a fun rock show that goes from “Barracuda” to “alone.”
SC: Atlantic City always seems to be part of your regimen. Any thoughts about Atlantic City?
NW: Well, it’s kind of an interesting city because it’s kind of the other Sin City. It’s kind of the East Coast gambling kind of town. So, there’s a lot of craziness that comes with it and it’s very much a rock town because there’s an edge going on because of the gambling and the casino world of it all. So, it’s one of a kind in its characters. The whole atlantic City seaboard is really one of a kind. and I always think of Bruce Springsteen when I’m there. I always think of Springsteen and his songs and the style of the East Coast.
SC: So you’re kind of on a break right now and then restarting the tour here at Hard Rock?
NW: Well, we were out a couple of times before this year, last year as well, and we had kind of an intermission when ann had to go and kick the ass of cancer, which she did. and now we’re going back out. This is our second leg of this run in June. and then we’re going out in august, and we’re probably going out in October. So, we’re finishing up the year with about 60 shows this year. We know how to do it. So, we go out and do it, and we’re good at it.
SC: Anything on this tour that might differ from the last time you were in Atlantic City?
NW: Right now we’re kind of brainstorming. We’ve got a think tank with the band, and we’re talking about something interesting and cool like pulling out some really cool older songs we haven’t done for a while.
Like one of them is called “Down On Me” that we’re going to try to do. It’s like a blues number. and there’s one called “ you’re The Boys” that we haven’t done. But you can always rely on the standards that you want to hear when you come see Heart because we can’t not do that.
SC: Like you said, it’s hard to believe it’s 50 years since “Dreamboat Annie” hit those record store shelves with “Magic Man,,” the title track, “Crazy On You” … did you ever expect in the studio when you started this thing that this rock album was going to be what it’s ends up being?
NW: It was interesting because we were Beatles fans from the very beginning and music fans from a musical family and military family, too. So, we had the dogged determination of certainty that we were going to be proficient and good enough at doing it, that it was going to work. We had all this confidence and somehow it actually did work. So, we were really lucky that way, but we had hubris
around it … military brats, it’s like nothing will stop us from having big success with our music.
and when ann has a voice like she has, and I’m consumed by knowing how to do the guitar pretty well … then there was no reason why it shouldn’t work out for us, and I guess it actually did.
SC: Mike Flicker produced that debut album, and I guess the word they always use when it comes to producer was “polish” or “finesse.” What did he do to help you in your first time in the studio?
NW: a lot of people in the music industry, we like to say, have their ears painted on. you know, his ears were not painted on — he had really, really good ears. and with the sensibility to bring that analog kind of sound to tube compression, not to get too technical, but the real physical tape that we had and the soundboard that was in the room at Vancouver, where we recorded that album, had been at Muscle Shoals. It was a hit-making sounding electronics inside the actual guts of the board itself … really kind of special. So, between all of that and Mike Flicker’s wonderful ears that were not painted on, we had a really good chance to make it a great-sounding album, and it became
one of the albums that was like an audiophile’s (dream) … It was categorized in the audiophile category for a really good-sounding record of the day of its time. So yeah, we really got lucky.
SC: Was there a producer along the way that really stands out?
NW: We’ve worked with a few great producers, one of them named Ron Nevison, who we did the self-titled “Heart” album in the ’80s with “These Dreams,” which was our first No. 1, and “alone” and “What about Love” and some other really, really landmark ’80s kind of ballad songs and big rockers. He really had a knack for a hit song and we were at that point looking at outside material from some of the L. a . stable songwriters that were having hits at the time with bands like aerosmith and Whitesnake and Bon Jovi and all of that era. all those bands were doing the same thing with producers like Ron Nevison and a lot of the digital technology was brand new at the time, so there were all these new sounds that we were getting with digital, with all these synthesized keyboards and layers of keyboards and things that sometimes still sound good today like a song like “alone,” which I still say could be any era. It could have been World War I or World War II, romantic ballad … it’s
always really the song itself more than the production that sticks to your ribs.
SC: What did the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame mean to you?
NW: you know, it really did (mean a lot). I mean, me and ann have been the constant inside the Heart band, the perception of what Heart is. We’ve had lots of different players in the band, but the original lineup we had, they were proud of us and proud of themselves for having pulled it off to begin with. and there was no extra drama really around it … unlike most of the other times when bands have to go and play with their first original lineup. There’s usually way more drama.
that his guitar riffs are part of the songwriting process. Like, his riffs are the song. The riffs themselves are almost like lyrics to the song. It’s such an integral part of what the song gives you. and I think riffs like “Barracuda” and “Crazy on you” are the same kind of deal.
SC: It’s been almost 10 years since there has been a Heart album. Do you think that there will be new Heart music?
But in our case, we were kinda flower children when we all started out. We were kind of hippies. and so we had a sense of community that I think carried through even when we were much older later. and it still does. We’re still friends.
SC: So (Soundgarden’s and fellow Seattle musician) Chris Cornell inducts you and, with his passing, it must really make that so special?
NW: He was so fantastic of a rock singer, a lot like the male version of an ann Wilson. They’re just born to sing
… those kinds of singers. and he was such a sensitive soul and he had so many issues just trying to make it in his own right, trying to be famous in the Seattle scene at the time. He really looked up to me and I didn’t realize that he had so much admiration for us until we heard him induct us in the beautiful speech that he wrote. and it was really touching. It was really emotional, actually.
I thought he was just so good-looking and kind of stuck-up because he was really quiet around us, but I guess it turned out he was really nervous to even talk to us because he had this admiration. He was kind of a fanboy, and the induction was the first time I really realized how much he admired us. Before there was grunge, there was Heart, right? I mean, everyone knows Seattle for grunge, but Heart … is that band. and Ray Charles came out of Seattle and The Wailers and The Sonics and a lot of really cool bands.
SC: You have written some of the most memorable guitar riffs. Whose riffs always inspired you?
NW: Jimmy Page’s riffs … he was a riffer. I just watched “Becoming Led Zeppelin," and that documentary is so inspiring. It kind of dawned on me
NW: We’re always doing new music, always staying warmed up as a songwriter is really important. and I’ve been doing some new stuff and actually doing other new songwriting with her other players who also play in Heart at this time. But a proper Heart album right now has … we’ve got to just get the tour done.
Heart performs 8 p.m. Saturday, May 31, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. Tickets, starting at $97, are available at Ticketmaster or HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com)
Scott Cronick is an awardwinning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades. 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, and he also coowns Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall in Atlantic City, while working on various projects, including charitable efforts, throughout the area. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.
The Casino File
By Chuck Darrow
Every chef has their own tale of how and why they decided on a career in culinary arts.
But it seems a pretty safe bet that there is only one stove jockey — in atlantic City, at least — who was inspired by the popular Japanese animation form know as “anime.” That would be Leslie Daniel, the executive chef at Kuro, the acclaimed Japanese dining room inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino atlantic City.
Daniel, 31, was born and raised in Henry County, Ga. Its location some 40 miles south of atlanta hardly makes it a hotbed of a sian cuisine. But geography proved not to be an impediment to his career path, thanks to his lifelong enjoyment of anime, a made-in-Japan form of animation.
“My biggest exposure to Japanese food, I'd have to say, came from watching a lot of anime,” offered Daniel during a recent interview at the Boardwalk-fronting restaurant. That's where I get my influence from. Why I love a sian food is from the animes
that I watch.
“ you're watching these delicious [dishes] that they created for these cartoons, and it looks so good. I'm like, ‘Man, I want to try it’ because what they do on these TV shows is exactly how they cook food in Japan. It's amazing.”
It’s not that the cartoons were Daniel’s only exposure to food preparation.
“Cooking,” he explained, is “a passion that I've had since I was a very young child. I have pictures of me wearing a chef’s hat from Christmases when I was only a few feet tall.
“What really kind of drove me to the passion of cooking was that we used to go out to eat a lot as a family, and we would try a lot of different restaurants, a lot of different ethnicities and cuisines. It really sparked my interest in food itself. a s we started going to these different places, I'd start asking the waiter, or the manager — I was a very bold kid — ‘Can I go back and look in the kitchen? Can I see what you guys are working on?’ It was before the time of open kitchen concepts; everything was always behind closed doors. So, I was trying to get a peek in, and that's just kind of where I fell in love with it — just all the action.”
While neither of his parents were kitchen professionals (Mom’s a paralegal and Dad’s a mechanic with what Daniel described as a “passion” for cooking), family did play a role. He
spoke of holiday dinners that would find him and his kin “making cookies together, making a big meal; that was a very fun [activity] my family took part in together.” and he learned about different cooking styles from his parents.
“My mom is from the Virgin Islands, so she has a lot of different flavor profiles, spice and stuff,” he said. “and my dad is from Maryland, so he brought a very seafood-esque kind of style to the south. It was a very big mix of North american cuisine.”
While watching anime ignited his interest in Japanese fare, it was an early-career job that set it aflame.
“What I would consider my first official kitchen job was at Katsuya [in Miami’s South Beach district], which is a Japanese kitchen,” he recounted. “Coming up, I didn't really know what direction I wanted to go with food. I just knew that I loved it. But when I worked in that kitchen, I was surrounded by great chefs. and a lot of my friends from college were working there. So, the experience itself is kind of what led me in that direction.” and led to his passion for the indigenous delicacies of the Land of the Rising Sun.
“The food itself is just beautiful,” he insisted. “It's simple. But there's a lot of technique and care that goes into Japanese food.”
after Miami, Daniel — who’s long had the nickname “Chef Too Hype”
for his upbeat, enthusiastic manner in the kitchen — headed to Las Vegas before becoming a Day-One Hard Rock aC employee; he was Kuro’s sous chef when the rebranded and redesigned former Trump Taj Mahal Casino-Resort opened on June 28, 2018. He assumed the role of executive chef in 2022.
These days, his fame transcends the borders of absecon Island, thanks to his appearances on two Food Network competition series.
Last year, he was crowned champion on “Guy’s Grocery Games” hosted by celebrity restaurateur Guy Fieri. Earlier this spring, he was back on the channel competing in “24 In 24: Last Chef Standing.”
“It was a life-changing experience,” he told the Philadelphia Inquirer about his time on the programs. “The cooking competitions aren’t your average day-to-day executive-chef experience; competing was one of the hardest things that I’ve done, but also the most exhilarating, testing my boundaries as a chef.”
Daniel noted he initially came here simply because it was an opportunity to advance his career. But while the absecon resident may have spent time in two of the nation’s most glamorous, food-centric cities, after seven years, he’s all-in on atlantic City.
“ you go to Miami, and you have all
these hotels on the beaches and the nice weather, great food,” he reasoned. “Then you go to Vegas, you have these [opulent] casinos with all the top chefs and all their restaurants. But atlantic City is the best of both worlds. It's the casinos on the beach.”
Despite his professional success, Chef Leslie still has a couple of items on his “to-do” list. One is to visit Japan, something he plans to do later this year. The other has nothing to do with his job.
“I am single,” he said. “My dedication is to the culinary game. I'm hoping that maybe one day, some lucky lady will see me and want me to cook for her for the rest of her life.”
For more on Kuro, go to casino. hardrock.com/atlantic-city/restaurants/fine-dining/kuro.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa welcomed the 2025 summer season in a big — as in $40 million big — way last Thursday as it officially unveiled several new facilities.
The most significant additions are in the gaming operation as some
25,000 squarefeet of space have been dedicated to new gaming areas primarily aimed at a sian players. The upgrades include 51 tables (Pai Gow Poker, Pai Gow Tiles and Baccarat) spread over five private salons, a high-limit section and a private bar. The new gambling dens, which were designed according to the principals of feng shui, will be staffed by hosts who speak Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese. also debuting was Noodles, a casual, a sian-focused restaurant.
These new areas join the redesigned B Bar on the casino floor to comprise Borgata’s 2025 renovation/ expansion project.
On a sad note for live-music fans, the creation of the new casino-inside-a-casino and eatery meant the demise of Gypsy Bar, which had hosted rock bands since the Big B’s 2003 opening.
Chuck Darrow has spent more than 40 years writing about Atlantic City casinos.
Thursday, May 29
Atlantic City
Anchor Rock Club
Sleephouse, Cable-Knit, Hotel
Shmotel
7 p.m.
247 S. New york ave.
Bar One at Resorts
Karaoke Night w/ DJ Joe
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
DJ Gabor Kiss
8 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Dane anthony
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
The Benderz
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Linwood
Fox Den at LCC
James Howell
6 – 10 p.m.
500 Shore Rd.
Linwood
Crab Trap
Doug Jennings
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Sindi Raymond Band
4 – 7 p.m.
Karaoke Night w/ Mike Dempsey
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 Bay ave.
The Point
Joe Grasso
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay ave.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Vanessa Collier
7:30 p.m.
217 E. Main St.
Friday, May 30
Absecon
Reddog’s Hi Point Pub
Jump the Line
8 p.m.
5 N. Shore Rd.
Atlantic City
Anchor Rock Club
Murphy’s Law w/ Total Chaos
8 p.m.
247 S. New york ave.
Bar One at Resorts
Jagged
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Chaz
9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Council Oak Lounge at Hard Rock
Mary Winkel Trio
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
andrew Moorer Band
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Who Brought the Dog
7 p.m.
DJ Dnial
7:50 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Danny Lynch Project
6 p.m.
Incognito
10 p.m.
600 Huron ave.
Steel Pier Tiki Bar
Bar None
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Jamison
7:30 – 11:30 p.m.
600 Huron ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Big Bang Baby 5 – 8:30 p.m.
Live Music
9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Topgolf Suite at Ocean Casino
The Nash/Vegas Girls Trio
6 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Villain & Saint at Ocean Casino
Glenn Roberts Band
6 p.m.
yani
8:30 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
Stealing Savannah
6 – 10 p.m.
1400 Ocean ave.
Egg Harbor Township
The Roost Pub & Grill
Born to Run Down the Dream
6:30 p.m.
500 St. andrews Dr.
Galloway
279 Social
Bar None Duo
7 – 10 p.m.
279 S. New york Rd.
Linwood
Fox Den at LCC
Rob Lipkin
6 – 10 p.m.
500 Shore Rd.
Margate Bocca
Petty Cash
7:30 – 10:30 p.m.
7805 Ventnor ave.
Memories
Ear Candy
7 p.m.
9518 amherst ave.
Marmora
Yesterday’s Creekside Tavern
Triple Bogey
6 p.m.
316 Roosevelt Blvd.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
DJ Jim McCabe
4 – 9 p.m.
Twisted Livin’
9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
450 Bay ave.
Crab Trap
Joe Staffieri Duo
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
One Hot Mess
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Josie Kelly’s BigFoot
8 p.m.
908 Shore Rd.
The Point
Fat Mezz ↘Continued on
6 – 10 p.m.
998 Bay ave.
Continued from 54
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
Jenny Barnes Band
7:30 p.m.
217 E. Main St.
Saturday, May 31
Absecon
Reddog’s Hi Point Pub
The Dinamics
8 p.m.
5 N. Shore Rd.
Atlantic City
Anchor Rock Club
90’s Night
8 p.m.
247 S. New york ave.
Bar One at Resorts
Bar None
6 – 9 p.m.
DJ Gary
9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Caesars Mountain Bar
Kicking Sunrise
10 p.m.
2100 Pacific ave.
Council Oak Lounge at Hard Rock
Dan Jost Trio
7 -11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Hard Rock Café
The Nutz
8:30 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
Laura Lea Duo
7 p.m.
Band of Make Believe
10 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Zone Band
5 p.m.
Breck
10 p.m.
600 Huron ave.
Steel Pier Tiki Bar
Teddi Fusco
3 – 7 p.m.
Killer B’s
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Baywalk at Harrah’s atley Moon & The Say Somethings
2 – 6 p.m.
777 Harrah’s Blvd.
The Deck at Golden Nugget
Camille K Band
2:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Sensational Soul Cruisers
7:30 – 11:30 p.m.
600 Huron ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
B Street Band
5 – 8:30 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Topgolf Suite at Ocean Casino
Twisted Livin’ Trio
7
3 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1133 Boardwalk
Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino
James Nathan Hopkins & Kevin
Story
8 p.m.
500 Boardwalk
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Originaire Duo
7 – 11 p.m.
600 Huron ave.
Steel Pier Tiki Bar
Troy Rusnack
3 – 7 p.m.
Bar None
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
1000 Boardwalk
The Baywalk at Harrah’s Hometown Radio
1 – 5 p.m.
777 Harrah’s Blvd.
Brigantine
LaScala’s Beach House
Incognito
1 – 5 p.m.
1400 Ocean ave.
Galloway
279 Social
Kenny Curcio
12 – 3 p.m.
279 S. New york Rd.
Margate Memories
DJ Joel Stephens
6 p.m.
9518 amherst ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
The Turtle Heads
4 – 8 p.m.
450 Bay ave.
Crab Trap
Doug Jennings
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Crabby Jack’s
Bob Mower & Glen Eric
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway Gregory’s Backyard Bar May Day
6 p.m.
900 Shore Rd.
Monday, June 2
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget Red
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron ave.
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay Trivia Night with DJ Bill
7 – 9 p.m.
450 Bay ave.
Crab Trap
Lew London & Bob Mower
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Tuesday, June 3
Atlantic City
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Patty & Bugzy
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Live Music
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay Music Bingo hosted by DJ Chris
John
7 – 9 p.m.
450 Bay ave.
Crab Trap
Keith Hickman
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Wednesday, June 4
Atlantic City
Anchor Rock Club
Vinyl Wednesday
7 p.m.
247 S. New york ave.
Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget
Michael Stevens
8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
600 Huron ave.
The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock
Live Music
7 – 11 p.m.
1000 Boardwalk
Somers Point
Caroline’s by the Bay
Open Mic Night hosted by Blue Eagle
7:30 – 11:30 p.m.
450 Bay ave.
Crab Trap
One Hot Mess
6 – 9 p.m.
2 Broadway
Josie Kelly’s
Jimmy Brogan
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
908 Shore Rd.
Tuckerton
The Lizzie Rose Music Room
John Gorka
7:30 p.m.
217 E. Main St.
Events subject to change.
Saturday, June 7 | 4–8 p.m.
The Historic Village at Smithville will transform into “Eagles Country” on Saturday, June 7, from 4 to 8 p.m., as Tony Mart Presents the Tony Mart allstars performing two full sets of the greatest hits by legendary rock band The Eagles.
This event serves as Smithville’s official Summer Kickoff Party and promises fun for the whole family. Guests can enjoy the village’s regular attractions alongside food trucks, beer wagons and a VIP sponsor area offering premium seating and wine and beer tastings. The VIP experience is sponsored by the Bogle Family of Wines, which will feature its critically acclaimed “Juggernaut” line, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.
General admission and parking are free. VIP tickets, which include
premium seating and tastings, are available for $35 at tonymart.com by clicking on “Hot News” and following the prompts. a fan favorite for years at the
Somers Point Beach Concert Series, this performance by the Tony Mart a llstars is now making its way to northern atlantic County. The Marotta and Bogle families are teaming
With Doug Deutsch
So, how was your Memorial Day weekend? Here at the beach (aka the Jersey Shore), everywhere from atlantic City to Somers Point, and all towns in between were packed, with the weather cooperating, for the most part.
a s we sail into the last weekend of May, there are many excellent music entertainment choices. Here’s a few:
Tuckerton Porchfest Saturday, May 31 (rain date Sunday, June 1): Tuckerton has emerged as quite the hotbed of original music, with the Lizzie Rose Music Room presenting national acts year-round, and the annual Tuckerton
Porchfest event, now in its second year, coming up this weekend.
There are six (count ‘em six) performance venues planned for Porchfest – Union Market & Gallery, Tuckerton Seaport, two venues on Main St. at 131 E. and 149 E., the aforementioned Lizzie Rose Music Room, Elliot’s Barber Shop and The Grapevine. It’s all 100% free.
Looking at the lineups for each venue, there’s some very good music acts from our tristate area set to perform.
“Tuckerton Porchfest this year is incredibly exciting because all of my worlds are colliding across seven venues on one day,” amy Elizabeth,
one of Porchfest’s main organizers whose band is also performing that day, told us via email. “My 10-year-old daughter is performing with her elementary school chorus; all the acts have original music (minus the chorus). My band (amy Elizabeth Band) will be celebrating the release of our new single, ‘Just a sk,’ that releases the day before Porchfest on May 30.
“Some of the important people who have influenced me in the music and arts scene are running porches or involved in some way,” she continued. “Having artists from a sbury Park and Radio Garden State broadcast live on the Telegraph Hill Records porch is one of the most exciting parts, as well as working alongside my team made up of Jerry Ryan, Jimmy Brogan, Tyler Morales, and Chris Rockwell, has made leading the organization of this event a joy.”
Murphy’s Law/Total Chaos/ Gutterdrunk at Anchor Rock Club Friday, May 30: Greg Mungan, who books aC’s only original music ven -
ue, anchor Rock Club, has a terrific hardcore show for this coming Friday, featuring headliners/New york City hardcore legends Murphy’s Law; Pomona, Calif. hardcore vets Total Chaos, and popular Jersey Shore punk group Gutterdrunk, who rarely draw less than 200 people any time they play a local gig. This show will be an absolute hoot! Wear your Docs and be prepared to mosh if you’re down in the front. The club is located at 247 S. New york ave., aC: Show info: 8 p.m., $26.60, anchorrockclub. com for additional info.
Xtreme Queen/The Legacy of Freddie Mercury, Harbor Pines Golf Club, Saturday, May 31: Readers of this column know I’m normally not one for writing about tribute bands, but we’re making an exception for this show. For one, the band members are all accomplished musicians with stellar professional resumes. also, it’s harder to sing the Freddie Mercury leads than for most other acts. Plus, you can enjoy a nice dinner (optional) or just the show, whichever you choose. Tickets: $45 (show only), $85 (dinner and show). See harborpines.com.
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@ gmail.com
THURSDAYS
This highly entertaining, fast-paced revue frames unique variety acts with lively dance numbers. Featuring a talented, sexy, hilarious cast of dancers, comedians, & performers, along with a multitude of sparkling rhinestone trimmings & tassels that you won’t want to miss!
By David Setley
Next week, June 2-8, is National Prosecco Week in honor of Italy’s most popular sparkling wine. For those who don’t know, Prosecco is to Italy as Champagne is to France and Cava is to Spain. My favorite Prosecco memory occurred a few years ago when we were traveling in Italy by train. When my wife asked if they had Sprite or Ginger ale, the server said, “No, but we have Prosecco.” Needless to say, we eagerly accepted and enjoyed mini-bottles of Prosecco for the remainder of that train ride and every other time we could on that trip! So, pop a cork, pour a glass, and let’s take a moment to explore the history of Prosecco and how it has come to be so popular.
The origin of Prosecco dates back to around 200 B.C., although it did not become popular to the masses
until the early 2000s. The earliest record of sparkling wine coming out of Northern Italy was about a wine called Puccino, created by the Romans. In 1754, Prosecco appeared in a poem by aureliano acanti in reference to a sparkling wine from the Prosecco wine region. In the 1940s, a famous drinking establishment in Venice called Harry’s Bar marketed the Bellini cocktail, a refreshing and bubbly beverage made from fresh peach puree and Prosecco. Other cocktails using Prosecco, such as the aperol Spritz, grew in popularity later. By the year 2000, the world’s awareness of Prosecco had grown rapidly, spiking sales. Worldwide, Prosecco sales surpassed Champagne sales by 2013.
There are several similarities between Prosecco and Champagne. Both are sparkling wines that, in order to carry the name, must be made in the proper wine region using the appropriate grape. The grape used to make Prosecco was originally called the Prosecco grape, but was renamed Glera in 2009 by
another myth is that Prosecco is sweeter than Champagne, when, in fact, there are variations of sweetness/dryness. The driest is Extra Brut, followed by Brut; Demi-Sec is the sweetest. If you are looking for maximum dryness in your Prosecco, the Bele Casel a solo Prosecco is a great choice. The aromas are fresh with notes of golden apple and a touch of grapefruit. Or, for a reasonably priced Brut Prosecco, try Brilla! Prosecco DOC Brut. This lovely effervescent wine has an intense stone fruit taste, with a fine and long-lasting finish, fresh and beautifully fragrant. The aroma is a bouquet of fruits and flowers.
Brilla! also makes a lovely Brilla! Prosecco Rosé. This wine is a Brut but with the familiar peach and strawberry fruit notes that rosé wines are famous for. The bottles that the Brilla! wines come in are absolutely beautiful and will be a highlight for your spring table.
the European Union. To be designated a Prosecco DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), the wine must contain no less than 85% Glera grapes. To carry the name, Prosecco must also be made in the Prosecco subregion of the Veneto wine region, utilizing traditional production techniques. There are other sparkling wines from Italy beyond Prosecco, but according to Old World tradition, only those from the designated region can be identified by the name. a common misconception among consumers is that Prosecco is inferior in quality to Champagne, perhaps because it is generally less expensive. although a very good Prosecco can be found for a fraction of the cost of an average Champagne, that is likely attributed to production costs rather than the quality of the wine. Both Prosecco and Champagne utilize a double fermentation process. In the first fermentation, the wines are made much like any other wine. In fact, there is a still version (without bubbles) of Prosecco known as Prosecco Tranquillo. Only about 5% of Prosecco wines produced are done so as Prosecco Tranquillo, and they are generally not exported out of Italy. It is the second fermentation process that can greatly affect cost. The second fermentation of Champagne occurs by injecting additional yeast into the individual bottles of the wine. Prosecco’s secondary fermentation takes place in a stainless-steel vat prior to bottling. The process of creating the effervescence in Prosecco is much shorter – typically between one and nine months – than the yearplus needed for Champagne and is considerably more cost-effective.
For regular readers, you may recall my mention of Montinore Estates from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. They also have a winery located in Prosecco, Italy, where they produce Vivacé Prosecco DOC, a lovely Prosecco with floral aromas of wildflowers and notes of lemon zest and pear. The flavors feature white peach, lemongrass, honeysuckle and melon and offer a lingering finish. I would highly recommend any of these as a stand-alone glass of bubbly for any special occasion. Or, if you’re looking for a more interesting use of Prosecco, try an a perol Spritz. a lthough hotly debated across Northern Italy, Venice claims to be the birthplace of the classic Italian summer cocktail. My favorite recipe for an a perol Spritz is as easy as 3-2-1. Over ice, stir together three parts Prosecco, two parts aperol, and one part club soda. Then squeeze in a wedge of fresh orange. Delicious and refreshing!
So, chill a Prosecco for National Prosecco Week and enjoy! a s always, if you have any questions or comments, contact me at dsetley@ passionvines.com or stop by the Somers Point store. Until next time, happy wining!
David Setley is enjoying his retirement from higher education as a wine educator and certified sommelier at Passion Vines in Somers Point, New Jersey.
‘Tonight’ in Atlantic City:
By Bruce Klauber
The list of television personalities who have had some success hosting late-night talk shows through the
years is pretty short, especially since the concept of a late-night television talk show goes back to May of 1950, when comedian Jerry Lester hosted a program called, “Broadway Open House.” The list of talk show hosts who appeared on an atlantic City stage is even shorter, with the exception of Merv Griffin, who actually made the city a second home for several years, from 1988 through 1996.
But before and after Griffin arrived on the scene, there were other late-
night personalities who visited the city. The multi-talented Steve allen, credited with creating the format of “The Tonight Show” as we know it today via his tenure as host of the program from 1954 to 1957, made one appearance in atlantic City, at the Trump Plaza in 1994.
Johnny Carson, host of “The Tonight Show” from 1962 to 1992, made a few appearances at Resorts in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Several personalities who tried and failed to dethrone Carson from his position as the “King of Late Night,” including Joan Rivers, Joey Bishop, Chevy Chase, and arsenio Hall, also performed in atlantic City. The only post-Carson talk show hosts who made appearances in atlantic City were Jimmy Fallon, who appeared as a part of the Water Club’s opening ceremonies in June, 2008; and Conan O’Brien, who performed at the Borgata in September, 2019.
Merv Griffin got into show business as a singer in Freddie Martin’s ultra-sweet band at the end of the swing era, and then played a few minor roles in films as a Warner Brothers contract player. He bounced around daytime television in the late 1950s and early 1960s as a game show host until 1965, when he started in talk show television as host of a syndicated gabfest that lasted until 1969, and in the process won 11 Emmy awards.
a s a result of that success, in 1969, CBS pegged him to go up against Johnny Carson in the 11:30 p.m. late-night slot. Like others before him, Griffin’s show didn’t last. Though it was cancelled, he returned to daytime talk television and became involved in the creation of television game shows including “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy.”
With plenty of cash on hand,
Griffin went into the real estate business, with his first big venture being the purchase of the Beverly Hilton hotel in 1987. The next year, he set his sights on what was then called Resorts International, the first hotel/ casino to open in atlantic City. Resorts was struggling at that point due to increased competition, although the company had an interest in developing what would become the Trump Taj Mahal Hotel/Casino.
The deal was complex. Here’s the simplified breakdown:
In 1987, Donald Trump swooped in and bought a controlling interest in Resorts’ stock. Not long after that purchase, he bought up what stock remained.
In 1988, Merv Griffin’s company made a bid for all of Resorts’ stock. The two, big-name players battled it out for two months, making headlines in the process, until a deal was reached. In the end, Griffin got ownership of Resorts and the Resorts property in the Bahamas. Trump got ownership of Resorts’ interest in the Taj Mahal.
There was talk at the time that Griffin’s celebrity would help the troubled hotel/casino. His first order
of business was to invest $90 million in Resorts, and to sell the Bahamas property. although Resorts declared bankruptcy after Griffin’s first year of ownership, he managed to hold onto it, and turn a profit, until he sold it in 1998 for $350 million to a company called Sun International Hotels.
a s “Merv Griffin’s Resorts Casino/ Hotel,” the 1988-1998 years were fun years for those who worked there, and for atlantic City visitors who loved to celebrity watch. Griffin, after all, was the first hotel/casino owner in town to actually be in show business, and he understood that, at its heart, the casino business is show business.
Given his background in the big band era, and the fact that he actually was a decent pianist, Griffin had a jazz-oriented house band to back the many celebrities who passed through. Bassist andy Lalasis, profiled in these pages not long ago, fondly recalled the Griffin days at Resorts.
“Soon after I went over to Resorts from Bally’s Grand, Merv Griffin bought it and I ended up being his bass player,” Lalasis remembered. “Merv loved the music. He was very involved in it. He was nice and he was kind. I played for everyone, from Davy Jones to Robert Goulet and Don Rickles. There wasn’t anybody we didn’t play with.”
One of his show biz innovations
Steve Allen is credited with creating the format of “The Tonight Show” as we know it today.
were his glitzy, New year’s Eve galas. Writer John Kosich, who got to know Griffin during the Resorts’ years, described what Griffin put together each year.
“Merv was disappointed back then that there was no real successor to Guy Lombardo’s New year’s Eve shows,” Kosich wrote. “What he was seeing on television each New year’s Eve were specials geared more for the Top 40 crowd. In his mind, they were probably out at the clubs anyway. So he decided to begin putting on his own nationally televised New year’s Eve show from Resorts. He struck a partnership with the other
Johnny Carson, host of “The Tonight Show” from 1962 to 1992, made a few appearances at Resorts in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
casinos to borrow their headliners for an hour to have them perform, and in turn, he gave his competing casinos, and the city itself, national exposure.”
Long after he sold Resorts, Griffin admitted that the deal he made with Trump to buy the property turned out badly.
“He has basically said that, with the benefit of hindsight, there is no question that he would not do the same deal all over again,” said Thomas E. Gallagher, an attorney for Resorts in 1989.
But those who knew Griffin, and were on the scene during those
heady years on the Boardwalk, said he had a ball while he was there.
“My Resorts is really jumping,” Merv said in a 1992 television commercial.
Indeed it was.
Bruce Klauber is the author of four books, an award-winning music journalist, concert and record producer and publicist, producer of the
Friday, May 30
Lynyrd Skynyrd
▶9 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Saturday, May 31
An Evening with Heart
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
Friday, June 6
Khalid
▶9 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
Ledisi w/ Marsha Ambrosius
▶9 p.m.
Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars
Saturday, June 7
Australian Bee Gees
▶9 p.m.
Golden Nugget atlantic City
Trisha Paytas
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Friday, June 13
Queens of the Stone Age
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
Happy Together Tour 2025
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Saturday, June 14
Robin Trower
▶8 p.m.
The Music Box at Borgata
David Foster & Chris Botti feat.
Katharine McPhee
▶8 p.m.
Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars
Sunday, June 15
Erykah Badu
▶7 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
Friday, June 20
Tom Segura
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
311
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Ms. Pat
▶9 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
Randy Rainbow
▶9 p.m.
The Concert Venue at Harrah’s
Saturday, June 21
Tom Segura
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
Tiny Fey & Amy Poehler
▶4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
The Allman Betts Band w/ Mattie Schell
▶8 p.m.
The Music Box at Borgata
Friday, June 27
Incubus
▶7 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC
▶9 p.m.
The Concert Venue at Harrah’s
Saturday, June 28
Def Leppard
▶8 p.m.
Borgata Event Center
Jackson Browne
▶8 p.m.
Hard Rock Live at Etess arena
James Arthur
▶8 p.m.
Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
Jimmy Carr
▶7 p.m. & 10 p.m.
The Music Box at Borgata
Jake Shane
▶8 p.m.
Tropicana Showroom
By Chef Christina Martin
Memorial Day weekend saw many farmers markets open for the season, including Brigantine, where I went Saturday for their opening day. I arrived early and the crowd was light, but as the morning grew so did the turnout. It was a great market day with beautiful weather.
berry season, and how so many farms lost crops due to weather conditions. Jersey strawberries are rare this year. a few of the seasonal veggies harvested now include asparagus, beets, bok choy and arugula, which I purchased. It was delicious. arugula is a bitter green which goes perfectly in a mixed green salad, or lightly dressed with oil, lemon juice and sea salt for a tasty accompaniment to any dish.
Nectar Flow Farm is a full-time vendor at Brigantine Farmers Market. you will also see them at other farmers markets in atlantic County.
If you like pierogis you will enjoy Babcia’s Polish Kitchen. Flavors include potato, potato and cheese, potato garlic and sauerkraut, and potato cheddar and jalapeño. There is also a
This farmers market was started in 2013 by the Brigantine Green Team as a test market, and it has been going strong ever since.
The location was changed in 2020 to the Brigantine Community School parking lot. This season it boasts 73 vendors, three of which are farmers, five chamber of commerce vendors, four nonprofits and two Dolphin tank vendors (think of “Shark Tank” for kids). Behind the scenes is a committee of volunteers who work year round to produce this summer market.
I was happy to see the Bridgeton-based Nectar Flow Farm back at the market. They are a favorite farm for me as they do not use pesticides. I spoke with the owner about straw-
blueberry pierogi.
Owner George Faust is a high school culinary teacher who is teaching our next generation of chefs. He started out in 2002 opening Cibo Grill in Washington Township. He owned the restaurant for many years but it eventually closed. Now he enjoys selling at farmers markets. He also owns another food business called The Walking Taco Company, which is a food truck specializing in private and corporate events. you can find George weekly at Brigantine Farmers Market and at other Jersey Shore farmers markets this season.
Sprout and Thicket returned with gorgeous, locally grown flowers. Bouquets are available in mason jars – perfect for your dining table. This
Galloway Township farm has a little pink shed that has flowers available for pick up. Check their social media for days and times of availability. There is something comforting about having fresh flowers on a dining table. They usually sell out at the market so go early.
There are other food vendors with plant-based options this year including Gangsta Granola, which offers vegan, gluten-free, small batch granola. This granola makes a great topping on a smoothie bowl.
Mad Mutz was at the market with mozzarella sticks, pizza and fresh mozzarella. Owner Mike recently made a deal with the sharks on “Shark Tank.”
Brigantine Farmers Market is open 8 a.m.-12 p.m. every Saturday until Sept. 6. Service dogs are allowed.
In the meantime, try my summer salad for your next barbecue. This recipe uses arugula as well as other farmers market favorites that are coming into season.
Seatox, one of the original Brigantine vendors, was there with her homemade lemonade. It is so refreshing to enjoy while strolling the market.
Other returning vendors with plant-based items included Goji Juice, anita Guacamole, and Kizbees Kitchen with gluten-free baked goods. aversa’s bakery is back this year at the market, and Pottery Therapy has beautiful serving dishes to display all your market treats.
among the vendors I visited was Kismet Bagels, a Philly business that was born in 2020. Owners Jacob and alexandra Cohen have become Philly’s favorite bagel makers. I bought their Damn Near Everything “slow toasted” seasoning. I used it to make sourdough crackers over the holiday weekend and it was delicious on the crackers.
Brigantine’s DJ Jack Fahey handles the music and gets the crowd dancing each week at the market. He also takes photos of visitors enjoying the market day.
Summer Salad
● 1 medium watermelon
● 2 ears corn peeled
● 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
● 8 oz. arugula or other bitter greens
Warm a grill or grill pan to high heat. Slice the watermelon about 1/2 inch thick. Char the corn and caramelize the watermelon on the grill. Remove the corn from the cob. Toss with the tomato halves, arugula and dressing. Plate the watermelon and top with the salad.
Photos by Christina Martin
Chef Christina Martin is a dedicated chef educator, passionate advocate for healthy eating, and mother. Christina’s expertise has been spotlighted in Independent Restaurateur Magazine and she has been awarded 2024 Chef Educator of the Year from the Professional Chef Association of South Jersey.
Commentary by Jen A. Miller, NJ Monitor
Avalon Campground in Cape May Court House was a top destination for Canadians who were regular summer visitors to the Jersey Shore starting in the 1970s.
Last week while in avalon, I stopped at the Cape May County Habitat for Humanity to look for deck furniture. I didn’t find any, but while looking through used books and sofa sectionals, I found a mug featuring a maple leaf. “Eh?” it also read in an equally bold red.
a Canadian mug in a South Jersey Shore secondhand store might seem like an oddity, but it’s becoming an artifact of another time and a signifier of the once-strong-but-now-fraying relationship between this part of New Jersey and Canada.
according to Statistics Canada, Canadian car trips into the United States this March are down almost 32% compared to March of last year. Things don’t look better for the summer either. according to a New
york Times analysis, summer plane ticket sales from Canada to the U.S. are down 21%.
If this winter’s dip in Canadian snowbirds flying to Florida (and selling their Florida properties) is any indication, the Jersey Shore, particularly Cape May County, could see a similar drop.
But in all the “will they or won’t they” coverage I’ve seen about the issue this year, I noticed one thing left out: why Canadians — in particular French Canadians — came here in the first place. Like the drive from Quebec to Wildwood, it’s a long and sometimes winding journey.
A Canadian solution to an American problem
In the 1950s and 1960s, South Jersey Shore towns were in trouble. Where they were once the only place people could go to escape stifling summer heat, the advent of air conditioning and swimming pools meant that relief could be found close to home instead — no long train or car ride required.
atlantic City turned to gambling.
Cape May County? French Canadians. In 1970, Quebec legislated a two-week holiday for all construction workers for the end of July, a move that rippled out beyond the industry, with many residents of the province also taking that block of time off for summer vacation. Les Quebecois were also, theoretically, one day’s drive away, so starting in 1968, the county pitched them on better beaches, warmer water, and cheap accommodations in motels and rooming houses in Wildwood and in campgrounds that lined Route 9 just inland of beach towns like Sea Isle, avalon, Stone Harbor, and the Wildwoods.
In 1970, Cape May County opened a tourism office in downtown Mon -
treal to further bind the regions. In 1973, a tourism official told The New york Times that they spent 75% of its promotional budget to attract Canadians.
By the mid-1970s, the Canadians had taken over. Motels in the Wildwoods gave themselves names like Canadian and Quebec Motel, and venues booked Canadian stars like singer, radio, and television host Michel Louvain and Lousie-Marie Houde, a.k.a. Mademoiselle Quebec. In 1977, atlantic City hosted Quebec Day to thank their Canadian visitors, with a flag raising, cocktail party, concert, and fashion show featuring Quebec-based artists.
“Two weeks after the Fourth of July, cars were backed out all the way to Route 9 to see if we had campsites,” said Lenny Catanoso, 74, who until last year owned avalon Campground in Cape May Court House with his sister Marlene. Their parents opened the business in 1967, and they were teenagers working there when the influx of Canadians started coming in.
For part of July, “every car in town was Canadian. I haven’t seen anything like it,” said Larry Lillo, 77, Wildwood Historical Society secretary and owner of the Holly Beach Train Depot.
Lillo has also held a gamut of jobs during his lifetime in Wildwood, including ice cream salesman, lifeguard, and firefighter.
“It wasn’t just the mother and father and the kids. It was the grandmother, aunts, and uncles. The whole gang would come down and stay in apartment houses here,” he said.
I saw it too, as a kid who spent all of her summers in the 1980s and 1990s in avalon Campground. While my family’s summer place is now in avalon proper, we were there then for the same reasons as the Canadians: It was more affordable than on-island accommodations and offered more things to do for large family groups that might include parents and kids
but also grandparents, cousins, and that guy who isn’t really your uncle but that’s what you call him.
For the last two weeks of July and the first two weeks of august, 75% of the campground’s bookings were French Canadians, according to Lenny Cataonoso. you could see it — and hear it. The U.S., New Jersey, and Canadian flags all flew at the campground pools (where, yes, you could usually tell who was Canadian by their penchant for Speedo bathing suits). When it came time for me to pick a language to study in middle and then high school, I picked French, not because I had young girl dreams of Paris, but because I thought it would help me get a summer job down the shore when I was old enough to do so.
It wasn’t just that the Canadian border was closed, but accommodations in the area shifted to attract locals who didn’t want to travel either. To cope, avalon Campground converted sites that once had bare-bones amenities with tent campers in mind and upgraded them with sewer, water, and better power, in order to accommodate RVs, campers, and mobile homes — and charging for it.
I never got the chance. By the time I was old enough to work, the Canadian dollar plummeted in value, and the parade of Quebec license plates coming down the shore just about stopped. Marlene Catanoso, 72, remembers her father working the phones, offering regular Canadian visitors half-price tent spots. The Cape May County Montreal office closed in 1995.
The relationship hasn’t entirely died out, though. Gen X and Millennial Canadians come back so their kids can have the same kind of magical Jersey Shore experience they had when they were younger. Cape May County still has a French language website and Facebook and Instagram accounts, and the county tourism department has a public relations consultant focusing on Quebec and the Toronto region. Before the pandemic, about 8% of Cape May County visitors were from Quebec.
Marlene Catanoso said that older Canadian visitors stopped coming to their campground during the first Trump term, but COVID had a much bigger impact.
“For two years, we had a campground that was half empty,” she said.
Diane Weiland of Cape May County’s tourism department insisted that other factors, like the value of the Canadian dollar and a stagnant Canadian economy, are playing a bigger role in keeping the Canadians up north this summer than political discontent (though she did note that the Canadian automobile a ssociation has declined to run their ads; and Canadian news outlets won’t be covering U.S. destinations this year). But she believes the region will be OK, as local business owners have said that american travelers have been picking up Canadian cancellations.
So, as the unofficial opening of the summer begins, and more restaurants, bakeries, bike shops, and arcades open for the season, we don’t know what will happen. I guess we’ll see, eh?
One of South Jersey’s most anticipated fishing events is back and bigger than ever. The 27th a nnual “Brutus” Fluke Tournament will take place on Saturday, May 31, from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., promising a day full of fishing, fun, and community spirit.
Hosted by Egg Harbor Township Elks Lodge 2563 and Somers Point aMVETS Post 911, the tournament honors the legacy of local fishing legend Walter “The Brute” Gregory Sr., whose love for bay fishing inspired the event’s founding in 1999. Over the past 26 years, the tournament has grown into a cherished tradition for anglers of all ages and skill levels.
With more than $2,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs—including a $1,000 first prize for the heaviest fluke—this year's competition is sure to draw fishermen from across the region. additional prize categories include the heaviest striper and the heaviest three perch (each with a $100 prize), as well as a Junior Division designed to encourage the next
generation of anglers.
anglers can fish from boat, pier, or beach, offering flexibility and opportunity for everyone to join in. The entry fee is $50 per angler, and all proceeds benefit local veterans and children with disabilities—making this more than just a tournament, but a chance to give back while doing what you love.
The Somers Point head boat Duke O’Fluke will also offer a special morning trip to accommodate those without a boat of their own, returning in time for weigh-in.
Registration is open now and will conclude following the 6 p.m. Captains Meeting on Friday, May 30, held at the Egg Harbor Township Elks Lodge, 1815 Somers Point–Mays
Landing Road. Participants will enjoy complimentary snacks at registration and a free awards buffet following the tournament. For a registration form or more information, email BrutusBoy6665@aol.com. Forms are also available at local bait and tackle shops including Somers Point Marine, Tight Lines, Gregory’s Bar, Fin- atics, and others throughout the Somers Point and Ocean City area.
Don’t miss your chance to compete in this time-honored tournament that blends sport, tradition, and community for a great cause. Bring your rod, your lucky hat, and your best fishing stories—because the Brutus Fluke Tournament is more than a competition. It’s a celebration.
The annual Margate City Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony took place Monday, May 26, at all Wars Memorial Park, located along the Parkway section of Ventnor avenue. Hosted by the Margate Mothers a ssociation, the event brought together residents, veterans, local officials, and families in a heartfelt tribute to those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
a merican flags lined the route as participants marched in solemn remembrance, and the ceremony concluded with a moment of silence and the playing of taps.
Following the ceremony, attendees gathered at the Margate Log Cabin for light refreshments and continued observance of the holiday.
By Heidi Clayton
If you want to enjoy the outdoors with your dogs in the summer in southern New Jersey, you will, at some point, have to deal with ticks. I spend a lot of time in the woods with my dogs, and ticks are just a part of life. However, I take measures to prevent them from getting onto my dogs and remove ticks immediately if my dogs do get them. a s a result, I have not had a case of Lyme disease in years.
Tick-borne illnesses have been in existence for as long as ticks have been in existence. Rocky Mountain spotted fever and ehrlichiosis were at one time the most prevalent of the tick-borne diseases until the early 1970s when a group of children from Lyme, Connecticut, became ill, and doctors were
unable to find a diagnosis. Symptoms ranged from swollen knees and joints, headaches, stiff joints, chronic fatigue, and, in some cases, a low-grade fever. While doing research on Rocky Mountain spotted fever in 1981, a scientist named Willy Burgdorfer determined that black-legged ticks, or deer ticks, carried a specific illness. He identified those ticks as causing the illnesses in Lyme, Connecticut, thus giving the blight its current name. The technical name of the germs that cause Lyme disease is “Borrelia.”
Lyme disease is transmitted by immature black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks, after they feed from an infected host. a s the tick matures, it carries the disease and transmits it to another host if it feeds from that animal or person for over 24 hours.
Dogs can show symptoms of having contracted Lyme disease for up to four months post-bite. Symptoms are similar to those in humans, which may include fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, stiff and sore joints, and, in some cases, but certainly not all, a bull’seye around where the bite occurred. In one to five percent of dogs, Lyme
can also cause a kidney issue called nephritis.
If you suspect your dog may have Lyme disease, you should see your vet for a blood test to confirm. Even if your dog tests positive, they may not need a round of antibiotics. you should not jump to give your dogs a round of antibiotics for a tick bite alone to prevent an infection, because it does not work. your vet will decide, based on the Lyme titer, exactly which antibiotic is best for your dog and for how long it is needed. Doxycycline is the most common drug used to treat Lyme, and it is a very strong antibiotic that sometimes will require a 30-day dose.
The best way to avoid Lyme disease is to prevent it. The Lyme vaccine is the first step. While, yes, it is possible that the antibodies in the vaccine may not 100 percent prevent its transmission, research shows it is 80 percent effective. a side from the vaccine, tick preventatives like a topical drop or a monthly pill are recommended. I spray my dogs’ feet with a preventative if we are going somewhere where the brush is deep for an extra layer of pro -
tection. Even if you use a vaccine and preventative, you should always check your dog for ticks daily after they have been in areas where ticks live. If you remove the tick in at least 48 hours, you can prevent the transmission of the disease.
There is no reason to panic about a tick bite. Thankfully, while a nuisance to get rid of, there have been great advances in preventing the transmission of Lyme disease. Get your dogs treated, and enjoy the outdoors with them this summer!
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, rewardbased dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@ fouronthefloordogtraining. net or learn more at https:// fouronthefloordogtraining.net
By Eric Reich
It’s common for clients to walk in because they want investment advice. However, what they really need even more than investment advice is financial planning. a s we get older, the stakes of do-it-yourself investing get higher. First, we (hopefully) have more money than we’ve ever had before. While this is certainly positive, we also have less time until we need the money. The combination of these two facts increases the stakes for making sure we don’t make a mistake. This concern is what leads many investors to seek investment advice.
Being proactive in seeking investment advice at this stage of life can be a great step in the right direction. But often, there is an underlying issue beyond the investments that needs to be addressed. The real need is often financial planning.
What investments you own or should own can only truly be evaluated properly in the context of what they are to be used for. It’s natural to feel an attachment to an investment that has performed well in the past. The issue is that many of those investments were made during the accumulation phase of your life. Preparing for retirement frequently requires us to reexamine the portfolio we have and ask ourselves the question: are the investments that got us here going to get us through the next phase of our life? The answer often is that what got us here will not get us through retirement. The reasons involve far more factors than saving for retirement entailed.
When you are saving for retirement, the formula is fairly straightforward. Buy low-cost, well-diversified investments and change them as little as possible, including through down markets. However, when we near retirement, many more factors come into play. This is where the need for planning really begins.
First, how much do we really need? We have to have a baseline to measure, or we’ll never know how
much money is enough to retire. Next, which account or combination of accounts do we draw down first? How should the assets be titled? Do we want to leave money to the kids? If so, how much percentage of the estate should we leave them? Should it be an outright inheritance, or should it be held in trust? What’s the most tax-efficient way to draw down and eventually transfer these assets?
Clearly, there is a lot more to think about when it comes to nearing or living in retirement than what investments you should own. This is the point of financial planning. This is where comparing the lowest-cost investment advisor falls short. The investments only matter in the context of the greater plan for the investments themselves. I always like to say that planning should drive the investments, not the other way around. This is the time that you want to pay for advice: not just financial planning, but tax advice from your CPa and estate planning from your attorney. The time to be cheap isn’t when you are making major life decisions that will affect not only your retirement but future generations as well. Now is the time to get it right.
It costs a whole lot more to fix a mistake than it does to not make one in the first place.
Financial planning and investments are two completely different things but should work hand in hand to ultimately lead to an enjoyable retirement.
Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRa/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra advisory Services, LLC (Kestra a S), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich a sset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra aS. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.
Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations.
By Elisa Jo Eagan
Summer is a time to enjoy fun in the sun. But the season isn’t all about barbecues and vacations – this is a great time to tackle some home improvement projects.
Whether it’s an improvement to your house or yard, the warmest months of the year provide plenty of opportunity to improve the look, and better yet, the value of your home. Make your home ready-to-sell with these simple, effective home renovation projects. Potential buyers love to see these upgrades and they can help move along the process if your buyer requests an inspection.
Here are nine of the best home improvements you should plan to tackle over the summer months. Install new siding you can make your home look brand new by changing the color and
style of your siding. However, this is more than a cosmetic improvement. Loose or missing siding can affect your home’s weather resistance and lead to higher heating and cooling costs. Even if you feel comfortable doing the project on your own, it can be beneficial to use a professional team. Vinyl siding is there to protect your home from moisture, and a poor installation can lead to water damage.
Power wash your home
If your siding is in good shape, your home might just need a refresh. Power washing your home and walkways can help cut the grit and grime built up over the winter and spring. While you can do this chore on your own by either buying or renting a power washer, you may want to use a professional company. If your home is particularly large, professionals have the personnel and equipment to do a more efficient job and get to areas you may struggle with.
Replace the roof
This is a repair many homeowners dread. But if your home needs a new roof, summer is a great time to have the project taken care of, as new shingles require heat to form a weathertight seal. The lifespan of a roof can be up to 20 years or more.
Delaying a roof replacement can lead to leaks, which could result in water damage and mold.
Replace your windows
Winter may still be months away, but summer is the time to replace inefficient windows. The cold weather will sneak up on you, and old windows can lead to a chilly, drafty house. While this isn’t the most exciting home improvement project, it is one that will likely give you a high return when you sell your home. you’ll also be excited over the cuts to your home energy costs in summer and winter by replacing drafty windows.
Reseal your driveway
Give your asphalt an extension on its lifespan by resealing it. Sealing your driveway can last, on average, from three to 10 years. you may have to reseal your driveway more often depending on where you live. areas with rainy and snowy winters, as well as areas with hot, steamy summers, will need more frequent sealings.
Add a deck
Summer is the time of year for outdoor entertaining, and you can extend your living space by adding a deck to your home. a deck of wood or man-made material can be a strong investment, as it can help increase the value of your home when it comes time to sell it. If you already have a deck, take a weekend to strip and stain it, if appropriate. It can give your home a huge appearance upgrade.
Get a new garage door
your garage door can take a beating. Whether it’s a miscalculated parking attempt or from a rough game of pickup basketball, your garage door can easily become dented and scraped up. Sometimes a coating
of paint just won’t be enough, so taking time over the summer to change out your door can be a great renovation. Not only will it increase curb appeal, but this is another renovation that increases home value.
Spruce up your landscaping
Depending on the layout of your yard, you have almost limitless possibilities for upgrading your landscaping. There are a number of plants, trees, and flowers that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood. Best of all, most of these projects can be done yourself.
Replace the gutters
Gutters are an important part of your home that channel water away from your roof and foundation. But if they are worn out, it can lead to leaking inside your home. New gutters can also give your home an appearance upgrade and instantly improve your curb appeal. Not only are they available in classic white but also in black and copper upgrades, which surely add a classy, rich detail that makes your home stand out. adding gutter guards or a similar product can also be an excellent improvement by cutting down on future maintenance requirements.
By adding in some of these projects to your calendar, you can have peace of mind knowing your home is in good shape, allowing you to enjoy some rest and relaxation this summer.
AVALON
STONEHARBOR
1. *Treble or bass ___
5. Pharaoh's cobra
8. *Zeus' sister and wife, and character in Broadway musical "Xanadu"
12. Hair-dwelling parasites
13. Quinceañera or bat mitzvah, e.g.
14. Puts money in the bank
15. Pearl Harbor locale
16. Flair
17. Inuit boat
18. *Record-holding musical for most awards received by a single production, with The
20. *Broadway hit "Jagged Little ___"
21. *Comment to the audience
22. Web address
23. ____'er ____, at the pump
26. Private chapel
30. Keats' poem
31. Quit
34. Medley
35. ____ ____ or do nothing
37. Right-angle building extension
38. Razor nick
39. Like lemon
40. Make a choice
42. 1960s teen idol, Bobby ____
43. Give authority
45. Bias crime perpetrators
47. *Theater, e.g.
48. Cordial disposition
50. Surrender
52. *Non-musical with record number of Tony nominations
56. Shredded cabbage dishes
57. *Melpomene, e.g.
58. Just a little
59. Gold unit
60. Lodge fellows
61. "Game of Thrones" bastard
62. Without purpose
63. Past tense of "is"
64. Short-term employee
DOWN
1. Hoof sound
2. yarn spinner
3. Canyon sound
4. Like medieval European society
5. Was sick
6. Fixed look
7. Montblanc and such
8. *Musical with record number of Tony nominations
9. Like most fairytale stepmothers
10. Madrid's Club de Fútbol
11. Pose a question
13. Chef's prescription
14. Toyota sports car model
19. Shylock's practice
22. Coffee pot
23. *Bob ____, choreographer with most Tony awards
24. *"Break a leg" or "have two left feet," e.g.
25. Reduce pressure (2 words)
26. Eye up and down
27. Mediterranean appetizer
28. Type of potato masher
29. Ox connectors
32. *Tiresias in "Oedipus Rex," e.g.
33. Feverish
36. *NyC district
38. Washington, e.g.
40. Sun's descent
41. Onion-like herb
44. Seize by force
46. Obsolete office position
48. Spurious wing
49. *Comedy and tragedy, on a Tony medallion
50. attired
51. *James ____ Jones, multiple Tony winner
52. Old World duck
53. Like Silver's owner
54. H or O in H2O, e.g.
55. Make a raucous noise
56. Mogul equipment
See Solution on Page 86
The Cosmic Connection with Ursula Duffy
Rising sign horoscopes for May 29 – June 4
a strology, by definition, is the study of time and light. It is an art that humanity has utilized for millennia to better understand how the cosmos affects life on Earth. Personal horoscopes, also known as birth charts or natal charts, are snapshots of the sun, moon, planets and more at the
• Fencing
• Railing
• Decking
• Gates
• Pergolas
• Arbors
• Roofing
• Siding
• Windows
• Trim Boards
• Column Wraps
• Awnings
• Sheds
• Play-Sets
• Outdoor Showers
• Trash Enclosures
date, time and location of an individual's birth. This snapshot holds many keys to one’s characteristics and can be considered one’s personal map, guidebook and lesson plan for life! Everything in the cosmos continues moving beyond the moment of your birth and influences your life in various, cyclical ways. according to the rhythm of the sun, moon, planets, stars, seasons and even specific ages, these cycles influence your life and possibly your attitude toward life.
The weekly horoscopes provided here are written based on your rising sign. These horoscopes are intended to provide the cosmic connection to your lived experience as well as guidance and insight based on these rhythms. So much is written in the stars! It is my intention that these entries will assist you in deciphering what is encoded within you.
♈ Aries: Being first can be a lonely road. The best company is fierce self-worth. Newfound confidence and assertiveness fuel your heart for the journey ahead.
♉ Taurus: Peace and stability are your default. However, your inner warrior has come online in ways you may not have known possible. Embrace it with passionate acceptance.
♊ Gemini: Embarking on a different path takes courage. allow your heart to lead the way. Face new challenges by standing your ground and defending yourself.
♋ Cancer: For a crab to grow, it must find a bigger shell and endure a period of vulnerability. Trusting this natural process through career growing pains will pay off.
♌ Leo: The deep connection between personal growth and expansion
of perspective has been revealed to you. Carry this forward in your heart with deep gratitude.
♍ Virgo: That which tugs most at your heartstrings is connected to intimate relationships with others. Old hurts and trespasses rise to be healed. Let your heart open.
♎ Libra: Relationships with others can be the source of the most pain. Moving on from heartache is a brave journey of transmuting anger into forgiveness for the one who hurt you.
♏ Scorpio: a physical concern can be a call from your body to dive deeper into the root. Changing a behavior or habit, or even being more public about it, can foster great insight.
♐ Sagittarius: The harmonious flow of your free spirit inspires others. Keeping this flow alive, regardless of validation, is important. The joy and pleasure you receive matter most.
♑ Capricorn: Home is where your heart is. Returning to yourself, your core identity and authenticity again and again is the way to grow the deepest, strongest roots.
♒ Aquarius: Finding new ways to assert the power of your unique voice has been a winding journey. Keep practicing. Eventually, that spark will become a fiery, authoritative force.
♓ Pisces: Lessons showing how your daily practices and resources are connected come in waves. Inconvenience may be just what’s needed to instigate positive change, leading to greater confidence.
Before venerable Venus finally shifts into familiar territory (Taurus) on June 6, there’s one final, important teaching for everyone. Venus
and cathartic Chiron will meet up on Sunday, June 1, to compare notes and disperse sparks of insight, integration and passion to our hearts. The vibe of this cosmic connection will be flavored with a sense of completion and relief as we finally cross the threshold of all the lessons that surfaced with Venus’s retrograde and extended stay in the Piscean waters and aries fire. a s we reach the midpoint of the year, take some time to reflect on the last six months and everything that has happened, stirring up a personal renaissance regarding your connection to everything you love and value. See the above horoscope for your rising sign for more specific insight. 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. Find her astrology readings and astrological aromatherapy services, teachings, podcast, get in touch and more at www.ursaalchemy. com or ursaalchemy@gmail.com.
By Douglas Keefe
An interesting note about our early coinage is that in the first years our mint started striking coins, not all coins had the notation on the coin as to its value.
The United States Mint was created by Congress in 1792. The first minted coins were struck in 1793 and were only half-cent and one-cent coins. The one-cent coin was almost the size of the current half-dollar, made of pure copper. The half-cent was the size of a quarter and made of pure copper as well. These coins, while undergoing design changes periodically, continued until 1857, when the half-cent was dropped altogether, and the one-cent coin was drastically reduced in size to almost what we use today. During the entire production, which in both cases coins were not struck every year, the words “HaLF CENT” and “ONE CENT” appeared on the reverse of the coins.
In 1794, the mint expanded production to include the half-dime (5 cents), the half-dollar and the one-dollar coins. This starts with the question about denomination. The silver half-dime was struck from 1794 until it was totally replaced with the five-cent “nickel” coin in 1874. The first series of half-dimes were minted from 1794 until 1805, but not every year. and these coins had no notation as to their value. a new design of half-dimes was introduced in 1829 and had the notation “5 C.” on the reverse. This continued until 1837 when another new design contained the words “HaLF DIME” on the reverse.
The first two years the half-dollar was minted, 1794 and 1795, had no notation as to the value. In 1796 and 1797 the fraction “1/2” was placed on the reverse of the coin. another new design was created in 1801 and continued until 1807 but dropped any notation as to value. another design commenced in 1807 through 1836 and included the notation “50 C”. a design from 1836 through 1837 had the words “FIFT y CENTS,” and then another design starting in 1838 had the notation “HaLF DOL.”
Silver dollars were first struck in 1794 and through design changes continued until 1803. (There are silver dollars dated 1804, but these are extremely rare and were actually minted between the years 1834-1835 and were meant to be used in presentation proof sets.) During those years, the dollar coins had no notation as to
value. No silver dollars were minted for circulation again until 1840, when the new design included the words “ONE DOL.”
The remaining coins, the dime and quarter were first struck in 1796. The dime, from 1796 through 1807, and again dimes were not struck every year and had no notation as to value. The redesign in 1809 had “10 C.” added. Then the new design in 1837 added the words “ONE DIME”.
The quarter was first struck in 1796. No other quarters were struck until 1804. The 1796 design had no notation of value while the 1804 added the notation “25 C.” The 1838 redesign of the quarter added the words “QUaR. DOL.”
When the mint first started producing coins, it was probably assumed everyone one would know the value of the coins because of their size. But as the value of silver increased, it became necessary to reduce the size of the coins, hence the need to note their value as part of the design.
Collecting early american coins from the 1700s and 1800s produces a collection of many interesting designs. Typically, a collector chooses one of each design rather than trying to collect every date. a s I mentioned above, not all denominations were struck in every year, due to the fact there already was sufficient coinage available. Most type sets of early american coinage show the different front designs. Expanding the collection to a second coin, showing the reverse and the denomination notation changes, adds interest to the collection.
