SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | February 19, 2026

Local Inventor Appears on Shark Tank

Referendum Set for Six EHT Schools

Beach Tags Could Get Cheaper for Teens & Vets

Cape May’s Connection to the Underground Railroad

Linwood Orchids Coming to Philly Flower Show

The gift of ordinary days

From the editor

Ithink we may have finally turned a corner.

The temperature reached the mid-forties yesterday. That may not seem so great. But with the sun shining and little to no wind, it felt almost luxurious — the kind of afternoon that invites you out for “just a quick walk,” around the block or even along the Boardwalk.

For a moment, the sun felt different. Softer. Warmer. The air no longer stung my skin.

There's still snow piled stubbornly along the edges of parking lots. Patches of ice linger in the shadows. Winter hasn’t released its grip. But something has shifted. The daylight stretches a little longer. The breeze doesn’t cut quite as sharply. Emotionally, at least, it feels like we’ve rounded a corner.

This winter has been a tough

one. Brutally cold. Relentless wind. The kind that seeps through coats, into your bones — and even, into our moods. Cabin fever feels very real this time of year. So as I found myself quietly celebrating 45 degrees, I realized something else: I have a brand-new appreciation for the milder winters we’ve had in recent years.

You know the ones. Those January and February days that hovered in the high 40s, sometimes even the low 50s. At the time though, I probably complained. Too gray. Too damp. Still winter. I likely wished it away, eager for spring.

Isn’t it strange how we rarely recognize comfort while we’re living in it?

We notice extremes. We react to discomfort. It's something to talk about. But steady, ordinary ease often goes uncelebrated.

It’s human nature, I suppose. We adapt quickly to what feels good, and then our attention shifts to what’s missing. We normalize comfort and fixate on inconvenience.

photo of Carter Doorly by Dawn Doorly.

Our health works the same way. For many of us, most days of the year, nothing hurts. We move through our routines without giving a second thought to our knees, backs, or

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

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

Publisher Assistant - Julia Train

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Contributors – Scott Cronick, Tammy Thornton, Rich Baehrle, Sarah Fertsch, Steffen Klenk, Brian Cahill, Dave Weinberg, Doug Deutsch, Joe Martucci, Heidi Clayton, Eric Reich, Chuck Darrow, Alex Corson, Cat Pepe, Delaney Crawford, Ursula Duffy, Robin Stoloff, Alanna Stoloff, Tynan Hand, Madison Russ

shoulders. We climb stairs. We carry groceries. We sit, stand and bend without a thought.

But on the occasional day when something aches, it consumes our focus. For me, it’s often my knee. Suddenly, that knee becomes the center of my universe. I rotate ice and heat like it's my job to nurture it back to health. I reach for anti-inflammatories. I wince with each step and calculate every movement.

And on the many days when it doesn’t hurt? I barely acknowledge it. “What knee?” I think — when perhaps I should be whispering, “Thank you, knee.”

The absence of pain is a quiet gift. Just like a mild winter day.

This season has reminded me how easy it is to overlook steady blessings — manageable temperatures, uneventful weeks, the simple ability to move through life without discomfort. We tend to reserve our gratitude for the dramatic: the big breakthrough, the first truly warm day of spring, the long-awaited good news from a doctor.

But maybe the real practice is learning to appreciate the in-between.

The 45-degree afternoon.

The pain-free Tuesday. The ordinary, uneventful week. Maybe turning a corner isn’t always about dramatic change. Sometimes it’s about perspective.

Sometimes it’s realizing that what once felt unremarkable was actually a gift.

As we inch closer to spring, I’m trying to hold onto that awareness. To notice subtle improvements. To celebrate small shifts in light and temperature. To give thanks for what feels steady and stable instead of waiting for perfection.

There will always be seasons that test us. There will be cold snaps and setbacks, unexpected aches and inconvenient storms. But between those harder moments are countless quiet comforts — days that simply work. Bodies that simply function. If this winter has taught me anything, it’s not to rush past those ordinary days. They may not feel extraordinary.

But they are gifts all the same. Here’s to warmer breezes ahead — and to appreciating them while they’re here.

Egg Harbor Township’s Ray Ellis honored for Black History Month, decades of service to local youth

By Julia Train

Egg Harbor Township Deputy Mayor Ray Ellis was honored for Black History Month at the Feb. 17 Atlantic County Board of County Commissioners meeting.

Ellis, who serves on the Egg Harbor Township Committee, was selected to serve as deputy mayor in 2025 and 2026, becoming the first Black person to hold that position in the township’s history.

Atlantic County Commissioner Chairman John Risley said the board sought to honor someone who exemplifies service and dedication to the community. He pointed to Ellis’ decades of work with young people as a football coach for over 44 years, teacher and law enforcement officer.

“Ray's the kind of guy that doesn't run around the county bragging about what he's done or doing. He's a class act all the way,” Risley said. “And he's more interested in helping young men, young people, grow up to be good members of society. And coaching, of course, is a great way of doing that.”

Risley, who has known Ellis for about 15 years through local government and community involvement, said the deputy mayor is not one to seek attention.

“There's an old saying that you're ‘never a hero in your own hometown.’ I'm trying to break that with this nomination…He is a hero to us, and he does a lot of work behind the scenes,” he said.

The chairman said he proposed Ellis’ name for the annual Black History Month recognition and received immediate support from County Executive Dennis Levinson and fellow commissioners.

Ellis’ path of service began in education in his early 20s. He worked at

Harbor Fields, the county’s juvenile detention center, before taking a permanent substitute position teaching fifth grade at the former Westside School in Atlantic City.

“The thing I loved about [teaching] is [seeing] them later on in life, successful and working hard, and just being thankful,” Ellis said.

He also helped start a GED program at Atlantic Cape Community College and was instrumental in bringing Covenant House to the area.

At Harbor Fields, Ellis said his focus was clear: “It was just teaching these young guys that made poor decisions how to make better decisions and move on, be productive in life. And we were pretty successful for kids not returning to the system.”

Although he initially had no plans to enter law enforcement, a spur-of-the-moment decision

changed his career trajectory.

When Ellis was 30, he and his friends decided to take the police test “as a joke,” but Ellis said he scored “pretty well.”

“I never really wanted to be a cop, but I said, ‘You know what? That could contribute and help even more if I'm a police officer, I could set examples,’” he said.

He served 20 years as a police officer in Atlantic City, much of that time working with juveniles and as a school resource officer at Atlantic City High School. He also helped start the city’s curfew unit in the 1990s.

Throughout it all, Ellis continued coaching youth football — 21 years with the Atlantic City Dolphins and 24 years in Egg Harbor Township’s junior league programs.

“My philosophy is ‘boys to men.’ I love the boys and show them and teach them how to be men. Football is a game of life, and that's why I would call it ‘boys to men,’ because they learned team sports, how to get along with brothers, strategies and everything else,” he said.

Today, Ellis remains deeply involved with local youth, launching new programs and staying visible in the community through coaching football in the township and his position as deputy mayor.

“I like that position because I like being out there helping people,” he said.

Reflecting on the county’s recognition, Ellis said he was humbled.

“Well, like my mother and a lot of older folks say, ‘give me my roses where I can smell them.’ I never looked for a pat on the back, because I enjoy what I do and I've been blessed with the skills to get through to these young folks, so I'm really excited about it,” he said. “Whether I get a pat on the back or not, I’ll be with these kids, trying to mentor, show them the right way every day.”

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

The Jersey Shore’s snowpack just went on a generational run

By Meteorologist Joe Martucci

The snowpack we have had, since the Jan. 25 winter storm through Feb. 14, has been one for the record books.

Atlantic City International Airport went 21 days in a row with at least an inch of snow or more on the ground. That's the fourth longest since records began in 1945. The last time it was longer than that was 24 days in 2010.

Long Branch has had at least 6 inches of snow cover for 22 days. That’s the fifth longest streak since records began in 1907. You would have to go back to 1961 to have this much snow on the ground for this long. Even at just 3 inches, it’s the longest streak since 1978.

Quite literally, it’s a generational run.

So why is this snow so stubborn to melt? There are many weather reasons. Let’s start with the most obvious – the cold.

From that winter storm on Jan. 25 to Feb. 15, anywhere from just two to four days have hit 40 degrees accord -

deep snowpack formed of all snow, the National Weather Service says.

Then, freezing rain and rain only added more moisture. The deep freeze after that just locked all of that into place.

The least obvious one is the dew point, or measure of moisture in the air. When dew points are above freezing, air temperatures are above freezing. So, that will melt the snowpack, but it has an even bigger role than that.

Dew points above freezing cause water vapor to turn to liquid water on the snowpack. This change then releases heat, which

ing to NOAA. That’s it. Most days have been below freezing.

In fact, the stretch from Jan. 23 to Feb. 12 was in the top four coldest on record at New Jersey’s major weather stations. At Atlantic City International Airport, that three-week period felt more like a typical stretch in Portland, Maine, according to the Southeast Regional Climate Center. Atlantic City has felt more like Milwaukee.

Plus, the nights have been absolutely frigid for the most part.

Going hand in hand with this is the sun. Sun helps melt the snow, but if it’s below freezing, it can only sublime the snow, helping it go from a solid to a gas, like water vapor.

That’s been happening, but at a slow rate. using Long Branch as an example, the depth of the snowpack went from 10 inches on Jan. 26 to only 6 inches on Feb. 13, with just one day in the 40s.

Next, you’ve seen it all around you; this snowpack is more like an ice cube.

Our winter storm on Jan. 25 was unique. Snow went to 1-3 inches of sleet. That makes it two to three times more dense than a similarly

melts the snow faster, even if the air isn’t super warm.

And as you can probably tell by your lip balm usage, it’s been very dry. Since the Jan. 25 winter storm, no day has had a dew point above freezing at the Jersey Shore, so even when the air temperature is above freezing, it doesn’t do much to melt the snow.

The result? A Delaware Bay that’s nearly completely covered in ice, slush in the ocean water, ice skating on the Wildwood Beach and the return of the historic Van Nostrand Cup ice boat race on the frozen Navesink River in Red Bank on Feb. 9.

The Cup has only run five times since it began in 1891. The last time it happened was in 2003. The winner gets a Tiffany Silver Cup valued at $100,000, and a generation’s worth of icy memories.

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.

Multi-day Events

‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’

▶Feb. 20-March 1

Events and Happenings

Gateway Playhouse, 738 Bay Ave., Somers Point

Rediscover true joy, innocence and humor of childhood through the eyes of the world’s most beloved underdog. “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” brings Charles Schultz’ “Peanuts” characters to life in a family-friendly musical packed with laughter and heart. Shows are Friday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 21 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 and are available for purchase at wwwt.gatewaybythebay.org.

Friday, February 20

Family Movie Night at the Library

▶6 p.m.

Ocean City Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.

Ohana means family, so bring them to the movies this Friday. Join Ocean City Library for a special Family Movie Night featuring “Lilo & Stitch.” A snack will be provided and all ages are welcome. The movie will be shown inside the Lecture Hall.

‘Forever Motown: So Good for the Soul’ ▶7:30 p.m.

Stockton Performing Arts Center, 101 Vera King Farris Drive, Galloway “Forever Motown” is a high-energy, non-stop trip down memory lane featuring nearly 30 of the greatest Motown hits of all time. Performed by a charismatic cast of Broadway stars

and former members of The Jones, The Marvelettes and The Main Ingredient, this show recreates the iconic Motown sound with incredible action to detail. For more information, visit www.stockton.edu/pac.

Saturday, February 21 Community Resource Day ▶10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Tabernacle u nited Methodist Church, 702 Seashore Road, Erma Here’s your opportunity to speak one-on-one with a representative from over 60 local organizations that offer community assistance to Cape May County residents, including local food pantries, health services, job assistance, veterans assistance, disability service, senior citizen savings and so much more.

Leap into Love and Kindness Crafts ▶11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Ocean City Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.

Hop into the library this Saturday for a fun and creative afternoon. Enjoy a short story at 11 a.m., then kids can drop in anytime to make creative crafts. Celebrate the end of February with creativity, imagination and a little leap of love. Recommended for children ages 5-11.

Overdue Opinions Book Club ▶11 a.m.

Somers Point Library, 801 Shore Road

Join the Atlantic County Library in Somers Point to talk about buzz-worthy new releases and nostalgic throwbacks. Book club members can vote on each month’s themed read. Bring your thoughts, questions and over-

due opinions. For more information, call 609-927-7113.

African-American Story of McKee City

▶12-2 p.m.

MK Betterment Building, 6 Atlas Lane Road, Egg Harbor Township

Join the Greate Egg Harbour Township Historical Society as they celebrate Black History Month with a presentation of Colonel John McKee, founder of McKee City in the 1880s. Plus, follow the stories of Atlas Lane, founder of MK Betterment in the 1960s, and Jennie Morris, founder of Morris Beach in the 1930s. Free light lunch and open house. The presentation will begin at 12:30 p.m. Pizza Fundraiser for John and Ed ▶2-5 p.m.

Happy Eatery, 715 E. Eighth St., Ocean City

Vote for the Best Pizza in Cape May and Atlantic counties, with tastings offered by Ventura’s Offshore Café, Mamma Mia’s Ristorante, Mario’s Pizza & Restaurant, Little Italy, Mitchelli’s Pizza and Mike & Anna’s. There will be free prizes for kids, refreshments, Johnson’s Popcorn, movie watching and card and board games. Proceeds will benefit People in Crisis Inc. (PICI) in support of residents John and Ed. For more information, call 609-204-9638 or email pici17@yahoo.com.

Remembering Jamie Foundation Italian Night Dinner

▶4-8 p.m.

Elks Lodge, 1815 Somers Point Road, Egg Harbor Township

The Remembering Jamie Foundation invites you to their annual February Italian Night Dinner. Mark your calendars for an all-you-can-eat Italian buffet, including salad, entrée, dessert, soda and beer. Admission is $15 for children and $5 for adults. Proceeds benefit scholarship for local

students. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at www.rememberingjamie.org.

Sunday, February 22

Bargaintown Bowling for Heroes

▶1 p.m.

King Pin Lanes, 6622 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township Roll a few frames to support our local heroes as the Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company hosts its 4th Annual Bowling with Heroes.

Your registration helps maintain vital equipment, fire protection and emergency response work. Bring your family and friends, meet the firefighters, win prizes and learn tips to keep you and your family safe. Tickets include two games, shoe rental, food and drink choice and donation. Tickets must be purchased in advance by visiting www.zeffy.com/en- uS/ticketing/4th-annual-bowling-for-heroes. Holy Spirit Pre-Prom Fashion Show

▶5 p.m.

Holy Spirit High School, 500 S. New Road, Absecon

The Holy Spirit High School Mothers’ Guild invites you to a fun night of entertainment and modeling of gorgeous pre-owned prom dresses. Some of the dresses will be donated to Project Prom while others will be available to sell through original owners. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Cash only at the door. If you would like to donate a dress, email hsmothersguild@gmail.com.

Monday, February 23

Yoga and Meditation ▶5 p.m.

Inland Family Success Center, 3050 Spruce Ave., Egg Harbor Township

Late Season Sale

Join Tarak for a relaxing blend of gentle yoga and guided meditation designed to release tension, calm the mind and restore balance. Suitable for all levels, this session offers space to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with yourself.

Tuesday, February 24

Paint and Sip with Nisha

▶5-7 p.m.

Ventnor Library, 6500 Atlantic Ave.

Join the Atlantic County Library in Ventnor for a themed paint party with snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and games, plus painting. Open to adults and interested teens. Register online at www.atlanticlibrary.org or call 609-823-4614.

Wednesday, February 25

Black History Month Trivia ▶4 p.m.

Inland Family Success Center, 3050 Spruce Ave., Egg Harbor Township

Test your knowledge and celebrate Black history through a fun and engaging trivia night. Learn something new, spark conversation and honor the achievements, culture and contributions of Black leaders and communities.

Thursday, February 26

Brunch & Learn: Between Myth & Midrash

▶10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Katz JCC, 501 North Jerome Ave., Margate

Join JFS Village as they explore monsters, beasts and bizarre beings throughout the Bible, Midrash and Jewish imagination. Explore what these creatures reveal about fear, chaos, divine power and the human struggle to understand a complex world and why ancient images continue to fascinate and challenge us.

RSVP by Feb. 23 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or tserota@ jfsvillage.org.

Trades and Apprenticeships Career Expo

▶2:30-5:30 p.m.

Egg Harbor Township High School, 24 High School Drive

Join Egg Harbor Township Schools and the Atlantic County Workforce Development Board for their free trades and apprenticeships career expo. The event is open to the public. Interested participants can register in advance by visiting http://mvnt. us/m2448116. For questions, call 609-653-0100, ext. 1081 or email grahamc@eht.k12.nj.us.

Absecon Galloway Rotary Club Meetings ▶6:30 p.m.

Gourmet Italian Restaurant, 324

South Pitney Road, Galloway

The Absecon Galloway Rotary Club invites the public to be their guest at their upcoming meeting. A networking social hour will start at 5:30 p.m. followed by the meeting at 6:30. Learn more about Rotary, how they serve our local community and meet community members. For club information, go to www.facebook. com/AbseconGallowayRotary or email Rose McCarthy, Club President, at bluerose46@aol.com.

Announcements

Project Prom 2026

▶Now-March 1

Project Prom is now accepting dress donations for its annual fundraiser. Donations can be dropped off at Esthetica Salon and Spa in Northfield, JCC in Margate and Berkshire Hathaway, 9218 Ventnor Ave. in Margate, now through March 1. For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, visit www.projectpromac. com.

Bus Trips

Philadelphia Flower Show

▶Tuesday, March 3

If you’re thinking about spring, join EHT Recreation and hop on the bus to enjoy the wonder of the Philadelphia Flower Show. The bus will depart from the Egg Harbor Township Community Center. Space is limited. For more information, email recreation@ ehtnj.gov or call 609-272-8120.

Health and Wellness

Cancer: Thriving and Surviving Workshop

▶Tuesday, Feb. 24-March 31, 4:30-7 p.m.

Shore Cancer Center, 644 Shore Road, Somers Point Cancer survivors and caregivers are invited to a free six-week workshop at Shore Medical Center. This workshop will provide practical tools, encouragement and peer connection to help participants navigate the physical, emotional and everyday challenges of life during and after cancer. Registration is required and space may be limited. To register, call 609-653-3923.

Coffee Talk

▶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. During this one-hour meeting, participants 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 Association in Atlantic County, 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway

The Atlantic County Wellness Center provides weekly meditation, follow-up discussion and light stretch on Mondays. Newcomers and people with all levels of experience in meditation are welcome. For more information, call 609-652-3800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.

Depression and Anxiety Group

▶Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m.

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

This weekly in-person support group is offered to individuals seeking coping strategies, mutual support, self-care, wellness and recovery. Meetings are led by peers who have lived experience. No cost to participate. Offered by the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County. For more information, call 609-6523800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org. Dementia Support Group

▶Wednesday, March 4, 1:30 p.m.

Egg Harbor Township Community Center, 5045 English Creek Ave.

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

▶Monday, March 9, 7 p.m.

St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point

NAMI of Atlantic/Cape May offers free self-help, pee-led support groups for family members, caregivers and friends of individuals over the age of 18 living with a mental illness. Participants gain the support of peers who understand their experience and gain insight into the challenges and successes of others. Family Support and Connections groups meet on the second Monday of each month. visit www.namiacm.org for further information.

Opening Day March 28th March

$36M EHT referendum would upgrade six schools with no tax rate increase

By James FitzPatrick

Egg Harbor Township voters will go to the polls March 10 to decide on a $36 million bond referendum to fund renovations and improvement at six schools – all with no increase in the tax rate.

The special election seeks funding for maintenance and upgrades at the Alder Avenue Middle School, Egg Harbor Township High School, Fernwood Avenue Middle School, Dr. Joyanne D. Miller School, Slaybaugh Primary School and the Swift Elementary School. The public is invited to ask questions and learn more at a town hall meeting 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, at the Alder Avenue Middle School. It will also be live-streamed on the district website.

The project would be financed without increasing the tax rate, district officials said. Bond debt from 2004 is coming off the books just as new debt would be added, which means taxpayers would not experience a change in the debt service tax levy as a result of the project.

State aid is also helping. The total referendum amount is $35,975,178 with the state contributing $8,042,699 in debt service aid. Of the part that’s eligible for debt service aid, the state is paying 46.36%. Considering the whole package, state debt service aid is picking up 22.42% of the tab. Referendum funds can pay for capital projects only; salaries and supplies are not part of the vote.

Slaybaugh Primary School, which is scheduled to get a 14-classroom addition, represents the largest expenditure at $17,035,162, Egg Harbor Township High School would get $7,990,465 in improvements and Fernwood Avenue Middle School is scheduled for $7,494,224 in improvements. Alder Avenue Middle School would receive $1,196,250, Swift Elementary School $1,192,309 and the Dr.

Joyanne D. Miller Elementary School $1,066,768.

While the Slaybaugh addition is a central part of the plan and the largest, it is not receiving state debt service aid, nor are athletic field improvements at the high school, which were initially okayed until the state recently withdrew the approval.

The referendum could have been added to the November ballot, but a separate March special vote was selected because the timing maximizes the amount of debt service aid available, according to Daniel Smith, school district business administrator and school board secretary.

The March date means that the money would be available in the 20262027 budget cycle versus 2028-2029 if they waited until November. The district has budgeted $40,000 for the special election, Smith said, although the cost is expected to be cheaper.

“We want to be able to get that first interest payment in the fiscal year ’27 budget to avoid the debt service tax levy being at $5.4 million, then going down to 3.8, then going back up to 5.4,” said Smith in a Dec. 16 project

update. “We’re trying to keep it consistent.”

After the state changed its mind about the high school athletic fields, Smith said this week that the district is going to use capital reserve funds to contribute to the referendum cost in the second year to maintain the approximately $5.4 million levy.

“Currently, the average taxpayer pays about $277 per year on their debt service tax levy,” Smith said in an earlier project presentation. “Our goal is to keep that consistent through fiscal year 2030.” In fiscal year 2031, the levy would actually go down to about $125 per year for the average taxpayer, he said.

Joseph Marinelli, principal of Slaybaugh Primary and Bargaintown Preschool, said parents expressed their desire for a full-day preschool during the district strategic planning process.

“Currently, we lease space at the Bargaintown Preschool, but the 14-classroom addition at Slaybaugh Primary allows us to move those classrooms over,” Marinelli said. “This will free up lease funds that can be reallocated to other instructional needs

SATURDAY MAY 9, 2026

OAKCREST HIGH SCHOOL 10am – 2pm

throughout the school district.”

Smith said closing the Bargaintown Preschool is an important benefit.

“It frees up funds in the general fund that can be used for other purposes... financially, the best option is to just do an addition at Slaybaugh Primary.”

At Egg Harbor Township High School, the planned improvements include upgrading HVAC control systems to properly utilize new equipment, and replacing the weight room HVAC system. Additionally, the district plans to complete athletic field improvements, including the reconfiguration of fields and improving irrigation and drainage.

“Finally, we are planning upgrades to drainage, paving and irrigation to ensure our fields remain the premier athletic complex in the county,” said Jacki Carugno, EHTHS principal.

At Fernwood Middle School the plan is to replace the original chiller, renovate the auditorium (flooring, seating, and sound) and renovate the boys’ and girls’ locker rooms to create two smaller locker rooms and three new classrooms.

At Alder Middle, a deteriorating membrane roof would be replaced with one that’s expected to last 30 years. Swift Elementary School would also replace its deteriorating gravel roof with a 30-year roof and complete safety-related repairs to the boiler

room walls and ceiling.

The Joyanne D. Miller School would convert space in the media center to construct four small group instruction classrooms, allowing teachers to work on specific skills and differentiated learning.

Smith expects it will take three to four years to complete all the projects from the time of the vote until the last project is completed.

The vote is scheduled for noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, open to registered Egg Harbor Township residents only. If you want to apply for a mail-in ballot, the deadline is March 3. It will be a simple yes or no vote.

The public is invited to learn more at the district's referendum website, which contains FAQs, PowerPoints and videos on the plan, including commentary from district officials and project details. It also includes a sample ballot. See https://www.eht. k12.nj.us/board_of_education/referendum

Copy editor and Contributing

Writer James FitzPatrick has been a community journalist in Atlantic and Cape May counties for more than 30 years, including 20 years as editor of The Current Newspapers. He lives in Hammonton.

RideWave

Bill would

By Julia Train

New Jersey lawmakers are weighing a proposal that could make trips to the Jersey Shore more affordable for families with teenagers and for military veterans.

The legislation (S1533) would allow — but not require — shore municipalities to create local ordinances offering free or discounted beach access to teens ages 12 to 17.

In many towns, younger children already get on the sand at no cost, while teenagers are typically charged the same rate as adults. If adopted locally, the measure would give shore communities the flexibility to reduce or eliminate those fees for teens.

The bill is sponsored by state Sens. Carmen F. Amato Jr. (R-9th) and Raj Mukherji (D-32nd). It was advanced Thursday, Feb. 5, by the Senate Community and urban Affairs Committee in a unanimous vote, moving it one step further in the legislative process.

Currently, most shore towns require beachgoers to purchase a badge or tag during the summer

season. Fees vary widely because they are set by individual municipalities.

Daily passes in some towns cost just a few dollars, while seasonal badges in others can exceed $100. In some communities, season rates can reach $200.

Revenue from those badge sales cover lifeguard salaries, maintain public facilities, repair boardwalks and fund erosion control efforts.

Lawmakers backing the bill argue that giving towns the option to ease costs for families would not necessarily undermine those essential services.

According to NJ Advance Media, the legislation is intended to provide towns with “more authority to ease the cost of a day at the Shore for families with teens.” Supporters say that even modest reductions could make a difference for households that

visit the beach regularly during the summer months.

The proposal would not mandate fee changes, but it would give local governments the choice to either completely eliminate or reduce badge fees for teens and veterans.

Municipal leaders would be able to weigh the potential impact on revenue against the benefits of expanded access.

The bill also addresses beach badge eligibility for veterans. Current state law allows free or discounted beach access only for veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty or who were discharged due to a service-connected injury.

S1533 would remove those limitations, enabling shore towns to extend free or reduced-price badges to any honorably discharged veteran, if they choose to do so.

“I think any time we can move bills in Trenton that give our municipalities greater ability to self-govern and set ordinances that fit their individual needs is a good thing. This bill allows local municipalities, based on their own community’s priorities, to choose whether they want to reduce or remove, entirely, fees for beach access for children and veterans. While I support free access for both, it should be up to the town to make that decision,” Sen. Vince Polistina said in a statement to Shore Local. Supporters of the measure say the change would modernize eligibility rules and recognize a broader group of former service members, NJ Advance Media reported.

Beach badge policies differ significantly along the coast. While many towns charge seasonal or daily fees, some beaches remain free to the public. Therefore, the impact of the bill, if enacted, would vary from town to town.

Although the proposal cleared the Senate committee with unanimous support, it still faces several hurdles before becoming law. A companion measure must move through the Assembly, and both chambers would need to approve the bill in full before it could be sent to the governor for signature.

If ultimately enacted, the changes would not take effect immediately. But the measure signals an effort by lawmakers to balance the financial needs of shore towns with the goal of keeping New Jersey’s beaches accessible to both families and veterans.

The Underground Railroad and Cape May: Insights from the Harriet Tubman Museum

By Marcella Curcio

The southernmost point of New Jersey is known for the charming Victorian shore town Cape May. Most visitors go down to enjoy the gingerbread architecture, the Cape May diamonds on the beach, trolley tours, or horse-drawn carriages that go up and down the streets, informing their passengers on the history of Cape May. During the same Victorian period that gave the town its distinctive architecture, the town also had a historical impact on ending slavery and helping those enslaved to reach freedom. In the mid-1800s, notable anti-slavery activists stayed in Cape May. These activists were also often conductors or supporters of the u nderground Railroad, as it operated in Mid-Atlantic states in the lead-up to the Civil War.

Just a few blocks from the lively Washington Street Mall, known for its shops, restaurants, and overall heavy foot traffic of tourists, stands the Harriet Tubman Museum. Located at the corner of Lafayette and Franklin Street, with its own deep historical roots, as the surrounding neighborhood was home to activists, along with buildings that support the end of unfair divide, this museum explores a chapter of uneasy history with the town’s remarkable role in the broader struggle for freedom in America.

realities of slavery and segregation, also highlight the local citizens’ courage required to resist slavery, and examine the ongoing consequences of racial injustice that extended into segregation and beyond. The museum challenges visitors to reflect on the legacies of slavery and discrimination that continue to shape modern society by drawing a line from the past to the present.

The Harriet Tubman Museum reflects those who went against the social norm in an unequal time in history. Inside, exhibits detail the harsh

One of the most significant figures associated with Cape May is Harriet Tubman. Tubman honorably earned the nickname “Moses of her people” after serving as a guide on the u nderground Railroad, leading approximately 70 of enslaved individuals to freedom, risking her own freedom many times to leading them north to free states and Canada. By the 1850s, New Jersey was a free state, though slaveowners often vacationed at the shore, and the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 demanded that any runaway slaves found within New Jersey be swiftly returned to the South. Maryland, a nearby state in the Northeastern united States, was not a free state at the time. Tubman herself escaped slavery in Maryland and initially sought refuge in Philadelphia. To avoid being captured, she moved frequently and operated in multiple

locations. In the early 1850s, Cape May was one of the many places where she resided.

Along Lafayette Street, Tubman’s temporary home, were other anti-slavery activists. Stephen Smith, who had a summer home on the street, was a founder of the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society. Smith was born a slave, but ran a successful business after securing his own freedom. Not only that, but Smith and a friend helped runaway slaves escape to freedom by building a secret compartment in their business’s railway cars to hide them. In Cape May, he used his power and voice for anti-slavery efforts. Nearby stood The Banneker House, developed by a friend of Smith, James Harding. The Banneker House was not only a high-end hotel, but it was also one of the only summer resorts in the country for free Black people. It provided a welcoming place to stay for Black visitors. Also located on the street was the Baptist

Church, where Joseph Leach served as a preacher. Leach was more than a spiritual leader; he was also a political advocate and newspaper editor who spoke forcefully against slavery. In his sermons and published writings, he called for justice and equality, using both the pulpit and press to advance the cause of abolition.

While Cape May’s beautiful streets may first capture attention with their charm and historical features, the town’s true depth lies in layers of history, where Victorian elegance exists alongside powerful stories of resistance and freedom. The same streets that today visitors and vacationers walk around freely, once hosted acts

of bravery, strategic meetings, and determined individuals dedicated to ending one of America’s greatest injustices and fighting for equality of all. By visiting the Harriet Tubman Museum, visitors can get a glimpse into all the brave men and women who once resided in Cape May, fighting and leading those to freedom.

Mary Ruley Moyer champions inclusion and independence at The Arc of Atlantic County

Coastal Conversations

By Alanna Stoloff

Mary Ruley Moyer leads The Arc of Atlantic County with a focus on advocacy, empowerment and community connection. The organization supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families throughout Atlantic County, helping people build independence and participate fully in daily life. Its programs aim to create opportunities, reduce barriers and strengthen the broader community through inclusion and understanding.

Here is our Coastal Conversation.

AS: What is the mission of The Arc?

MM: The Arc works to improve the lives of people with intellectual

and developmental disabilities through services, advocacy and education. We partner with individuals and families so they can make choices about how and where they live, learn, work and spend their time. Our goal is a community where people have the support they need to live with dignity and independence, and where quality of life is defined by personal goals.

AS: Who do you serve and how?

MM: We primarily serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Through our case management program, we also connect other vulnerable residents to resources. Case managers help people navigate housing, benefits, transportation, medical appointments and community programs so they can understand their options and direct their own lives.

AS: Why is inclusion so important?

MM: Communities are strongest when people of all abilities are included as active participants.

AS: What programs make the biggest impact?

loved ones. Healthcare needs can also be complex. Our programs and residential support provide structure, friendships and care while preserving independence and freedom of choice.

AS: What inspires you most?

MM: I’m inspired by individuals choosing the lives they want, selecting a home they love, enjoying work, forming friendships and achieving personal goals. Seeing their confidence and happiness grow is incredibly meaningful to me.

AS: What are your goals for the future?

MM: I want to continue sharing the impact of The Arc and promoting inclusion in our community. Personally, I look forward to spending more time with my family, especially my five grandchildren.

Through advocacy, support and everyday connection, The Arc of Atlantic County continues to expand opportunities for individuals and families across the region, proving that inclusion strengthens the entire community.

MM: We support more than 175 residents in community housing such as group homes, supervised apartments and supported living arrangements. Our Adult Day Program helps individuals build independence and social connections through activities like volunteering, cooking, art, fitness, financial literacy and vocational skills.

AS: How can the community support your work?

MM: Advocacy and acceptance make a difference. People can become members, attend fundraising events, volunteer, donate, shop at our thrift stores or simply help spread awareness about our mission.

AS: What challenges do families face today?

MM: One of the biggest challenges comes after high school, when families look for meaningful daily activities and social opportunities for their

Thank you so much to Mary Ruley Moyer and The Arc of Atlantic County for her compassion, advocacy and commitment to inclusion. Her work empowers individuals and families while helping build a stronger, more connected community.

Coastal Conversations highlights people in our community who are making a meaningful impact. If you know someone who would be a great fit for a future column, please contact me at ShoreCoastalConversations@ gmail.com.

From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.

How a local pet owner changed the grooming game

By Delaney Crawford

One local woman and her pup found a quick solution to a problem she assumed affected only her. But that simple idea soon became a product that would help millions and transform the pet grooming industry.

Debra LoFranco, the proud founder and CEO of De’Vora Pet Products, transitioned from a marketing professional to launching a pet product brand now sold through Chewy, Amazon, Tractor Supply, Ace Hardware, Kohl’s, and other retailers nationwide. And it all started with a scratch pad.

LoFranco shared that her dog once had a traumatic experience at the groomers, getting clipped incorrectly and requiring sedation.

Concerned about preventing future incidents, she began searching for a nonrestrictive way for her dog to trim his own nails.

“I did some research on what would work, and there was absolutely nothing on the market,” LoFranco said. “So out of pure need, I invented a device that allowed him to trim and file his nails on his own. I really didn’t think much of it, it was just something that worked for us.”

But in November 2018, LoFranco was laid off from her full-time marketing job, and her priorities shifted. She began to reconsider the potential of her invention.

“I thought, ‘If this works for us, it will probably work for others too,’” she said. After research and development confirmed there was nothing like it, she submitted a world patent application and it was approved.

By 2019, everything started to come together. Armed with her idea and the original scratch pad, LoFranco traveled to Las Vegas to audition for “Shark Tank.”

“When I casted, it was still just the idea. There was no production, no

marketing, not even a business name. But the casting director told me, ‘This is a slam dunk. I need this. The world needs this.’ I said, ‘OK, give me time to make it a real product,’” LoFranco said. “It was a challenge, but since the Shark Tank casting team sees a million products, if one of them thought it was viable, I knew I had to make it happen.”

That encounter sparked the start of her business. LoFranco registered her LLC in New Jersey that same day and began fully investing in De’Vora. She started manufacturing and selling products focused on nonrestrictive grooming, protecting homes, and maintaining pet health and wellness.

She began with the original scratch pad and gradually expanded the line, introducing advanced versions and entirely new products, turning De’Vora into a go-to brand for pet owners everywhere.

“Our products are nonrestrictive and more fun,” LoFranco said. “They allow animals to behave naturally, trimming their nails in a way reminiscent of their wild ancestors, while still being domesticated. It’s also very enriching for their brains.”

In addition to nail-trimming products, De’Vora manufactures pet treats at its Pleasantville location. LoFranco said the company plans to expand its health-conscious, natural pet food and treat options within the next year.

LoFranco credits much of De’Vora’s growth to the support of the South Jersey community.

“We were fortunate to start locally, going to fairs and farmers markets for the first two years,” she said. “Locals would share videos of their pets using our products, which helped us reach more people online. Word of mouth was huge, the community built us and supported us all the way.”

Now, after years of hard work, De’Vora is gaining national recognition.

“Going on ‘Shark Tank’ felt like a full-circle moment. In 2024, I reconnected with the same casting director who first encouraged me. Seeing what I had accomplished and then getting to meet and talk with the Sharks was incredible. It felt like I had reached the goal I set when I started.”

Viewers can currently watch her journey and pitch on the Shark Tank Global YouTube channel.

Showing on Shark Tank has helped De’Vora grow from a personal invention into a global brand, now offering over twenty products focused on non-restrictive grooming, health, and enrichment.

De’Vora’s commitment to innovation has earned accolades, including Best Grooming Product, Best Boutique Line, and Most Innovative Product from Pet Business. The brand has also been featured on Good Morning America and QVC.

“Starting De’Vora was never about money,” LoFranco continued. “It was about building a company focused on supporting the community and strengthening the bond between pets and people.”

With a simple idea born from love for her dog, LoFranco transformed a personal solution into a brand that is changing pet care nationwide. Supported by her South Jersey community and fueled by innovation, De’Vora continues to grow, bringing nonrestrictive, enriching products to pets and peace of mind to their owners.

For LoFranco, the journey is just beginning, and the best is yet to come for pets and their people everywhere. To mark the Shark Tank milestone, De’Vora will launch several new products on Feb. 21 that are sure to please the animals and humans alike.

Good Old Days honored by Somers Point Historical Society

By Steffen Klenk

Earlier this month, the Somers Point Historical Society saluted the annual Good Old Days Festival and its long-lasting impact and legacy on the community during a dinner event held Feb. 9 at the Crab Trap. Local officials were in attendance, along with longtime volunteers, residents, and supporters.

Held every year on the first Saturday after Labor Day, the Good Old Days has become a long-storied tradition that celebrates our hardworking community with a day of food, live music, and activities.

The Good Days Festival started in 1979 in honor of local resident Lawrence “Bud” Kern, a prominent community leader who supported local recreation programs and youth sports. He served as Chairperson for the Somers Point Recreation Commission and President of the Little League. Kern devoted eighteen years of his life to service before passing away suddenly from a heart attack on Aug. 5, 1979. He was 52 years old. After his passing, the city’s football and baseball fields were renamed

end of the year to celebrate who we are, long after the summer tourists have gone home.”

“He gave everything he had to this town,” she continued. “My father was a man who never took credit for anything he did. If you thanked him, if you praised him, he’d shrug it off. And if you saw him around town, he

in his honor. What was known as “the pit,” a former car junkyard, became the Lawrence “Bud” Kern Memorial Field. A short month later, the city hosted its very first Good Old Days Festival, organized by former Recreation Director Nick Regine.

Maureen Kern, Atlantic County Commissioner and daughter of “Bud” spoke about her father’s impact during last week’s event. “More than 45 years ago, he had an idea, a simple one: bring the town together at the

was almost always wearing a baseball cap with the letters “SP” – not for himself, but for Somers Point. For this place, for all of you.”

“Bud” was known for bringing people together, whether it was carpenters, plumbers, electricians, even parents. He cared about the kids that lived in Somers Point. “He had a very particular method of recruitment. Let’s just say it usually involved a friendly smile, a big idea, and the promise of a cold beer or two.”

Today, the Good Old Days Festival lives on thanks to the Somers Point Historical Society and City Councilman Sean McGuigan. He spoke about the social and community aspect of the event. “Every year, when the event comes to an end and I see the

row of bicycles along the fence, I know that all those friends of mine have gathered,” McGuigan said.

The festival has become a staple for many in our community to spark new memories and renew long-lost fellowship. “We’re creating that tradition of seeing your friends and renewing your old friendships and making sure that you’re continuing those friendships, and I hope to continue that," McGuigan said.

Today, the spirit of “Bud” continues, thanks in large part to the countless volunteers and community leaders who selflessly devote their time to making the festival a success. Kern recognized their dedication to service. “You’ve shown up, volunteered, planned, organized, and worked behind the scenes, often without recognition – just like he did,” she said.

She commended everyone in the community for carrying his vision forward and keeping the festival alive. “Thank you for proving, year after year, that the spirit of Somers Point – the spirit he wore proudly on his cap – is still strong.”

South Jersey’s Waldor Orchids prepares for Philadelphia Flower Show

By Tammy Thornton

On a quiet street in Linwood sits the unassuming greenhouses of Waldor Orchids, a hidden gem of South Jersey. Those in the know realize that once you walk through the door of this generations-old family-run business, you have entered into the mecca of award-winning orchids, a place bustling with activity—and amazing flowers that will leave you speechless. Third-generation orchid grower David Off is not speechless, however, when it comes to orchids. Once he starts talking, his passion for his beloved orchids shines through, and it’s hard to keep up with his unending knowledge of his craft. Lately, Off has been busy among the cattleyas working on the latest display

for the upcoming Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) Philadelphia Flower Show, “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening”. Off envisions an exhibit of moss-covered stone

3120 Fire Road, Suite 100, Egg Harbor Twp, NJ Phone 609.317.0801 kap@djd.law djdlawyers.com

ruins that have lasted throughout time, complete with the sounds and vision of water trickling down from this romantic-gothic dream.

Mr. Off is no stranger to the Philadelphia Flower Show. He grew up watching his grandfather, father, and uncles preparing for the show as a young boy, and he has been helping with exhibits since he was 14 years old. The Off family has been displaying at the Philadelphia Flower Show since 1933. For this year’s show, Off pictures the stone ruins to be symbolic of their time-tested business. Though Mr. Off plans to update some parts of the original building, other facets of the business have long roots that have improved with age and harken back to their historic beginnings. While Waldor Orchids has planned on updating certain features of their business such as installing a new heating system, the deep wealth of knowledge and growing techniques of the family of orchid breeders has stood the test of time. For this year’s exhibit, Off plans to install a 13-foot pond and aqueduct among the “ancient stone ruins” using moody shades of grays and greens, with the orchids providing pops of color. Off always seeks to add depth to his displays, looking to create an immersive experience for visitors to the show, as they will at first peer through the falling water before taking in the entire scene. At the center of the display, Off is planning to create a cork tree using

the same sassafras branches that his grandfather, George A. Off, used. Orchids will be attached to the tree and branches as they would be growing in their natural habitat. Another feature will be a dazzling orchid, Laelia Santa Barbara Sunset ‘Showtime’. We look forward to seeing Off’s vision come to life.

The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is in its 197th year, with boasting rights as the nation’s largest and the world’s longest-running horticultural event, featuring displays by some of the world’s premier floral and landscape designers. According to the show’s planners, this year’s theme: Rooted: Origins of American Gardening “honors the people, places, and traditions that have shaped gardening in the united States, inviting visitors to explore how personal stories, culture, and creativity are deeply connected through plants.” This year’s show will run from February 28 through March 8, and will be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

We are proud to have Waldor Orchids represent South Jersey, as they have been winning awards at the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show since 1940, and we wish them all the best at this year’s show.

The Forecast Calls for Fun

Whether you want a book to read by the fire or fun indoor activities, the library has you covered. Choose from best-selling books, helpful workshops, children’s programs, concerts, online resources and more this winter.

Visit OceanCityLibrary.org for a complete list of events and resources.

HOURS Mon.-Fri. 9am-9pm Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm

CURBSIDE PICKUP Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-4pm • Sun. 11am-4pm

Tickets on sale for summer concerts and Children’s Theater Series

Tickets for four new shows in the 2026 Summer Concert Series at the Ocean City Music Pier are on sale now.

The annual concert series brings a variety of contemporary artists to the Music Pier for shows that are typically scheduled on Monday evenings. Tickets are on sale through etix.com. Shows announced to date include:

● Straight No Chaser (June 29): The nine-member Straight No Chaser blends harmonies, hits and humor in their shows, and they have been a popular act in previous visits to the Music Pier. Their 2026 show is billed as a “Beach Bash.”

● TUSK: The Classic Fleetwood Mac Tribute (July 13): TuSK has been performing a high-energy tribute to Fleetwood Mac for 17 years.

● Judy Collins and Richard Thompson (July 20): Inspired by artists such as Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, singer-songwriter Judy Collins has released over 25 studio albums and numerous live and compilation albums, including singles such as “Someday Soon” and “Turn! Turn! Turn!” Richard Thompson is a world-renowned singer-songwriter who was named by Rolling Stone as one of the “Top 20 Guitarists of All Time.”

● The Indigo Girls (Aug. 17): The

folk-rock duo Indigo Girls first hit the charts with singles like “Closer to Fine” in the 1980s, and they have performed at the Music Pier in 2016 and 2018.

2026 Summer Children’s Theater Series

From July 7 through Aug. 4, the Greater Ocean City Theatre Company will present five fully staged family musicals every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. The Children’s Theatre Subscription package is available now. To purchase discounted tickets for all five shows with priority seating, visit oceancitytheatrecompany.com or email info@oceancitytheatrecompany.com. Tickets to individual shows ($11 in advance) will be available beginning at 9 a.m. on March 2.

www.oceancitylibrary.org

OCTC offers a special group ticket rate to summer camps and youth programs. To learn more, email info@ oceancitytheatrecompany.com.

The 2026 Ocean City Music Pier Children’s Theatre Series includes:

● July 7: “Winnie the Pooh”

● July 14: “How I Became a Pirate”

● July 21: “The Berenstain Bears –The Musical”

● July 28: “Junie B. Jones – The Musical”

● Aug. 4: “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” (TYA)

Coming soon

Market Madness on March 14 and 15 will bring together all of Ocean City’s favorite stores under one roof at the Ocean City Civic Center for two days of pre-season shopping specials.

The Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Job Fair 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. March 21 at the Ocean City Music Pier. Meet local and regional businesses to hear about seasonal job opportunities for individuals of all ages.

Ways to celebrate the Winter Olympics with your family

Family Tides

By Sarah Fertsch

The 2026 Winter Olympics are underway in Italy, and living rooms across South Jersey have transformed into front-row seats to the world’s greatest winter sports stage. This year’s Games feel especially personal for local families, thanks to hometown figure skater Isabeau Levito, the 18 year old from Mount Laurel competing in women’s singles at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Levito’s Olympic debut gives South Jersey something rare: a neighbor to cheer for on a global stage. Whether your household is glued to every routine or just catching highlights between homework and dinner, there are plenty of meaningful ways to turn the Games into a shared family experience.

Make figure skating night an event

Figure skating is often the emotional centerpiece of the Winter Olympics, blending athleticism with

artistry. When Levito takes the ice for her short program or free skate, treat it like a major local event.

Break out red, white, and blue snacks, make homemade signs, or dim the lights for a “spotlight” viewing atmosphere. Younger kids can rate performances with scorecards, while teens might enjoy predicting podium finishes. Watching together encourages conversation about dedication, nerves, and what it takes to perform under pressure.

Create mini 'Winter Olympics' at home

You don’t need snow to stage your own games. Turn your living room, basement, or backyard into a playful Olympic arena. Try events like:

● Towel or sock “speed skating” races on smooth floors

● Target toss or Nerf shooting for a biathlon twist

● Couch-pillow obstacle courses for freestyle “skiing”

Hand out homemade medals

crafted from cardboard, foil, or even chocolate coins. Let kids design a podium and play the national anthem of the “winning country” (or just a favorite song). The sillier, the better.

Follow a daily highlight hour

Olympic coverage can span all hours due to the time difference, making it hard for families to watch live events. Instead, choose one consistent time each day to watch the highlights together.

Rotate who picks the sport: speed skating one night, snowboarding the next, then curling or hockey. This keeps everyone engaged and exposes children to events they might not otherwise discover.

Keep a running list of favorite moments on the fridge. By the end of the Games, you’ll have a scrapbook of shared excitement.

Start a family medal board

Dogs

Create a simple scoreboard on poster board or a whiteboard to track medal counts. Add columns for gold, silver, and bronze, and update them each day.

You can focus on Team uSA or include several countries your family feels connected to. Consider adding a special section for Levito’s results to keep local pride front and center.

Younger children love placing stickers or coloring in bars, while older kids may enjoy analyzing which sports produce the most medals.

Explore the host region from home

The Games are taking place in northern Italy, including Milan and the

Alpine region. Turn Olympic viewing into a mini geography and culture lesson. Cook simple Italian meals together, like homemade pizza, pasta, or hot chocolate inspired by European cafés. Listen to Italian music during dinner or learn a few basic phrases. Even a quick look at maps or photos of the Dolomites can spark curiosity about the world beyond South Jersey. This approach turns passive watching into active learning.

Celebrate the stories behind the athletes

Every Olympian has a powerful backstory shaped by years of sacrifice, injuries, early mornings, and perseverance. Spend a few minutes each night learning about one athlete’s journey.

Levito’s story, in particular, resonates with local families: a young woman who started skating as a toddler and steadily climbed to the sport’s highest level. Discussing these stories helps kids understand that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about resilience.

Invite friends or family for a watch party

Even a small gathering can amplify Olympic excitement. Invite grandparents, neighbors, or teammates over for a key event. Ask each guest to bring a snack representing a different country or winter sport.

For children, seeing adults cheer, debate scores, and celebrate together reinforces the communal spirit that makes the Olympics unique.

Mark the closing moments

When the Games wind down, take time to reflect. Rewatch favorite performances, share what surprised you most, or vote on a “family MVP” athlete. You might even set goals inspired by the Olympics, such as trying a new sport, practicing more consistently, or simply being more active outdoors.

Keep the TV on, the snacks flowing, and the cheers loud. Somewhere on the ice in Italy, a New Jersey teenager is representing your community on the world stage and your family living room just might be the most heartfelt fan section of all.

Phillies warming up in spring training

By David Weinberg

This is the time of year when local Philadelphia sports fans change their wardrobes.

For the last six months, they’ve been donning green sweatshirts, jerseys and hats in support of the Eagles.

Now it’s time to break out the red and pinstripes.

The Phillies held their first spring training workout in Clearwater, Florida earlier this week and are scheduled to start playing Grapefruit League games Saturday when they head over to Dunedin to face the Toronto Blue Jays.

Six weeks from now, they open the 2026 season against the Texas Rangers at Citizens Bank Park.

There are some interesting storylines to follow both on and off the

field over the next month or so.

Top prospects Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford are in Clearwater and are expected to have big impacts. Painter, a hard-throwing righthander, will join a starting rotation that is in flux. Ace Zack Wheeler is still recovering from surgery to correct thoracic outlet syndrome. In one of the odder side notes, Wheeler had one of his ribs removed during the procedure and kept it.

TAX PREPARATION

In addition, top left-hander Ranger Suarez signed a five-year, $130 million contract with the Red Sox.

The Phils are counting on Painter to join 2025 Cy Young runner-up Cristopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, Aaron Nola and Taijuan Walker in the rotation.

“One of my goals is to come back as soon as I can,” Wheeler told MLB. com.

Crawford is also part of an out-

field that’s going to have a new look this season.

The 22-year-old is expected to be the Phillies’ starting centerfielder, along with newcomer Adolis Garcia and holdover Brandon Marsh and perhaps Johan Rojas.

Garcia, 32, who signed a one-year deal, was the 2023 ALCS MVP for the Texas Rangers.

He’s taking over for Nick Castellanos, whose controversial tenure with the Phillies ended last week when the club opted to release him. Castellanos subsequently signed with the San Diego Padres. The Phillies are responsible for $19 million of his $20 million salary.

The Phils decision to dump him apparently stemmed from an incident in Miami last summer when the outfielder brought a bottle of Presidente beer into the dugout after getting pulled for a defensive replacement.

“After being taken out of a close game in front of my friends and family, I brought a Presidente into the dugout,” Castellanos said in a handwritten note he posted on social media. “I then sat right next to (Phillies manager) Rob (Thomson) and let him know that too much slack in some areas and too tight of restrictions in

others was not conducive to us winning.

“We aired out our differences (after the game) and the conversation ended with my apologizing for letting my emotions get the best of me.”

There’s another potential distraction still permeating in the clubhouse with star Bryce Harper.

Phils general manager Dave Dombroski suggested earlier this offseason that the two-time NL MVP was not an elite player last season and questioned whether he could regain that status.

Harper batted .261 last season – his lowest average since he hit .260 in 2019 – with 27 home runs and 75 RBI.

Harper was subsequently shown taking batting practice wearing a “Not Elite” t-shirt and still seemed bothered by the comments upon reporting to Clearwater.

“I don’t get motivated by that kind of stuff,” Harper said. “For me, the whole situation was kind of wild of that happening. The big thing for me was when we first met with the orga -

nization, it was ‘we’re always going to keep things in house and we expect you to do the same thing.’ When that didn’t happen, it kind of took me for a run a little bit.

“Obviously, I didn’t have the season I wanted, I didn’t have the post-

season I wanted. My numbers weren’t where they needed to be. I know that. I don’t need to be motivated to be great. It was wild.”

Harper doesn’t drink alcohol, so sharing a cold beer is out of the question, but maybe he and Dombroski can clear the air over some iced tea.

High School postseason heating up

Several Cape-Atlantic League schools are involved in championship competitions this week.

The CAL boys and girls basketball tournaments are scheduled for Saturday at Egg Harbor Township High School.

The girls final will feature the winner of Wednesday’s semifinals. Defending champion Middle Township faced Hammonton in one semi, while Wildwood Catholic played Egg Harbor Township.

In the boys tournament, Middle played Atlantic City in one semifinal while St. Augustine Prep faced Ocean City.

Several wrestling teams were

scheduled to compete in the first two rounds of the state group team tournaments.

Top-seeded Lower Cape May Regional and fifth-seeded Middle were in South Jersey Group II; and Ocean City was the fourth seed in Group III. The South Jersey finals will be held next Wednesday.

In boys swimming, perennial power Mainland Regional was scheduled to face top-seeded Chatham in the state Group B semifinals on Wednesday at Gloucester Tech. A win would send the Mustangs to the state final Sunday at Rutgers university.

St. Augustine Prep won the Non-Public A South championship on Monday with a 127.5-42.5 win over Christian Brothers at the Neptune Aquatics Center. The Hermits will swim against Delbarton in the state finals Sunday at Rutgers.

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.

From classroom to cause: Finding the purpose in marketing at Shore

By Megan Guns

In the fall of 2025, I had the opportunity to take Marketing Principles with Brian Cahill, who normally writes the Views from the Shore column for Shore Local. That class sparked my interest in all things marketing, and when Brian later invited me to intern with him at Shore Medical Center, I jumped at the chance. I remembered him speaking in class about Mike and Jeannie Monichetti’s generosity and the hospital’s deep appreciation for their support. Each year, Brian and the Shore team attend the race to show that gratitude. One of my most fond childhood memories is spending President’s Day weekend in Sea Isle City. Every year,

my family gathered at my grandparents’ house on 44th Street to take part in the Polar Plunge and the 5K. With so much tradition tied to that weekend, there was no way I could say no when Brian asked me to attend the race. As his intern, I was grateful to experience the event firsthand and support the neurodivergent community.

This past Saturday, Feb. 14, marked the 18th annual Mike’s Seafood Valentine's Day 5K Run/Walk for Autism in Sea Isle City. Despite the cold, thousands gathered along the promenade united by a shared commitment to autism acceptance. Mike and Jeannie Monichetti, owners of Mike’s Seafood, founded the race in support of the autism community; a community their own children are part of, according to an article from Delco Today. What began as a heartfelt local effort has grown into one of South Jersey’s most meaningful annual fundraisers. Townspeople, visitors, and local businesses once again rallied behind their mission, demonstrating the powerful impact of community-driven philanthropy.

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It was clear to me from the moment I started at Shore that they are grateful to all their gracious donors, especially Mike and Jeannie Monichetti. Shore Medical Center is committed to better serving individuals with autism and other forms of neurodiversity; therefore, it has developed several programs to support the care of neurodiverse patients. Shore’s emergency department is sensory-friendly for both pediatric and adult patients, and thanks to generous support from the Monichettis and funds raised through the 5K, a sensory-friendly outpatient testing program opened last April. The program allows patients to receive EKGs, bloodwork, and other essential testing in an environment designed with sensitivity and understanding in mind.

What stood out to me most was how proudly Shore lives out its culture. Staff members didn’t just attend, they participated, ran, volunteered, and showed up for something bigger than themselves. Along with the staff, TJ Nugent, a student in my class with Brian last semester, agreed to run the race as the hospital’s mascot, Fin, and finished in 39:30! TJ’s support was greatly appreciated, as were the efforts of my parents and

my boyfriend, who also participated in the race. It was hard not to feel surrounded by love and support this past Valentine’s Day at such a great event. And yes, I was pretty excited to meet Jason Kelce and his wife, who have long supported Sea Isle City events. It was a fun moment in an already unforgettable day.

As both a Sea Isle kid at heart and a marketing intern learning the power of community engagement, this event felt full circle. The Mike’s Seafood 5K for Autism is more than a race. It is tradition, philanthropy, and advocacy woven together, and I am grateful to have witnessed how Valentine’s Day weekend can make such a lasting impact. Brian may teach the four P’s of marketing, but I’ve learned through my internship there’s really a fifth: purpose. And when you market with purpose, you can truly make a difference.

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Top Weekly Entertainment Picks

By Steffen Klenk

As we thaw out from the cold and snow of winter, we’ve found some amazing activities taking place this week. See a beloved classic live on stage, and a culinary event that will have awaken your taste buds. Get the inside scoop on what’s happening in South Jersey with our Top Weekly Entertainment Picks.

Who: Black Violin

Where: Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City

When : Friday, Feb. 20

Time: 9 p.m.

Website: www.caesars.com/harrahsac/shows

Black Violin brings their Full Circle Tour to Atlantic City this Friday. The group is known for blending classical strings with hip-hop beats, this

innovations duo offers a powerful, genre-defying concert experience that will push musical boundaries.

Who: Kool & The Gang

Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

When : Friday, Feb. 20

Time: 9 p.m.

Website : www.theoceanac.com/ kool-gang

Celebrate good times and get down to Ovation Hall for an evening of funk and groovy tunes. The iconic R&B group will light up the stage with timeless hits and an unforgettable night of music. Experience one of the most influential funk bands of all time as they perform live on stage.

What : You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Where: Gateway Playhouse

When : Feb. 20 – Mar. 1

Website : www.gatewaybythebay. org/ upcomingShows.cfm Rediscover true joy, innocence, and

humor of childhood through the eyes of the world’s most beloved underdog. “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” bring Charles Schultz’ Peanuts characters to life in a family-friendly musical packed with laughter and heart. Shows are Friday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 21 at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m.

Who: Kansas

Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

When : Saturday, Feb. 21

Time: 8 p.m.

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

Rock legends Kansas will take the stage on Friday night. Don’t miss your chance to experience iconic hits such as "Carry On Wayward Son," "Dust in the Wind," and "Point of Know Return." Enjoy a night of timeless rock in one unforgettable night.

Who: Theresa Caputo

Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

When : Saturday, Feb. 21

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : www.theoceanac.com/ entertainment/headliners/theresa-caputo

Caputo, star of Long Island Medium, brings her spiritual gift to Ovation Hall. With over twenty years of expe -

rience, she will deliver healing messages that comfort and inspire. She is also a bestselling author and podcast host. Don’t miss Theresa Caputo Live: The Experience, for one night only.

What : Jawn of the Dead: Grateful Dead Tribute

Where: Anchor Rock Club

When : Saturday, Feb. 21

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: www.anchorrockclub.com

Jawn of the Dead returns to Atlantic City this Saturday. The group presents a tribute to the Grateful Dead, along with other Jawns. Doors open at 7 p.m. Attendees must be 18 and older.

What : Sinatra Sunday

Where: Byrdcage Atlantic City

When : Sunday, Feb. 22

Time: 5 p.m.

Website : www.byrdcageac.com/ thisweek

The sounds of "Ol’ Blue Eyes" will come to life this Sunday evening. Enjoy renditions of your favorite Frank Sinatra songs, along with a special Italian menu, and fantastic atmosphere. Come eat, sing, and celebrate in an inclusive and energetic atmosphere.

What : National Margarita Day Mixology Class

Where: Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

When : Sunday, Feb. 22

Time: 6 p.m.

Website : www.eventbrite.com/e/ national-margarita-day-mixology-class-at-margaritaville-tickets-1982971888298

Celebrate National Margarita Day at Resorts and learn to craft your own personal Seaside Hacienda Margarita. Attendees will be given step-by-step instruction by a master mixologist, along with a souvenir recipe card, and an exclusive Master’s Mixology Certificate to commemorate the occasion. Attendees must be 21 and over.

What : Captain’s Table at the Atlantic City Boat Show

Where : Atlantic City Convention Center

When : Thursday, Feb. 26

Time: 6 – 8 p.m.

Website : www.cfbnj.org/events/ captainstable/

Join the Community FoodBank of New Jersey for a night of food, fun, and fellowship at their 11th annual Captain’s Table. Guests will enjoy delectible food selections from a variety of local restaurants while sampling spirit tastings by local breweries, wineries, and distilleries. This event benefits "Let us Eat, Please" in support of summer feeding programs for children and families in South Jersey.

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

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Friday, February 20

Kool & the Gang

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Black Violin

▶8 p.m.

The Concert Venue at Harrah’s

Saturday, February 21

Theresa Caputo

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Kansas

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Friday, February 27

Three Days Grace

▶7 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Boy George & Culture Club

▶9 p.m.

Borgata Event Center

Maddie & Tae

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Atlantic City Headliners

Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay and Imagine Dragons

▶8:30 p.m.

Starlight Ballroom at Resorts

Saturday, February 28

Sal Vulcano

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Riverdance 30: The New Generation

▶6 p.m. & 9 p.m.

Candlelight: Tribute to Queen and the Beatles

▶6 p.m.

Starlight Ballroom at Resorts

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

The Phil Collins Story

▶7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Friday, March 6

Sheena Easton

▶9 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Saturday, March 7

Rod Stewart

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

Sherri Shepherd

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

DINE & PARTY LOCAL

David Spade

▶8 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Almost Queen

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

Friday, March 13

John Oates

▶9 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata Mammoth

▶7 p.m.

Tropicana Showroom

One Vision of Queen

▶9 p.m.

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Saturday, March 14

Shaun Cassidy

▶8 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

My Generation Tour

▶8 p.m.

Circus Maximus Theatre at Caesars

My Big Gay Italian Wedding

▶8 p.m.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

Winter Jazz Tribute by Tygressa Jones

▶8 p.m.

Superstar Theater at Resorts

A Tropicana getaway makes the Winter Blues go away

By Chuck Darrow

Given that the recent stretch of frigid weather was worse than anything we’ve shivered through in recent memory (and that various parts of my body were still paying the price for dealing with the late-January snow/ ice storm), I figured I owed myself some kind of escape. And since a week in the Caribbean wasn’t within the realm of possibility, I headed to Tropicana Atlantic City.

I specifically chose the Trop because its inventory of amenities and attractions (and food-and-beverage outlets) laps the local gaming-hall field — especially during the cold-weather months that comprise the industry’s dog days. The fact is, there were more activities (passive

and participatory) than I could cover in my roughly 48 hours on property.

Wednesday

I checked into my nicely appointed, not-too-big, not too small room with a great downbeach view in the casino’s South Tower (I was hoping to bivouac in the newly renovated Solana Tower, but a room was unavailable).

I purposely wanted to keep that first night low-key, so the only thing on my agenda was dinner at Il Verde, the venerable dining room that is AyCee’s second-oldest casino eatery, having opened in 1981, three years after Capriccio debuted at what is now Resorts Casino-Hotel. While Tropicana offers a multitude of first-class dining options (including ultra-popular Carmine’s and Ossu Asian Tavern), I wasn’t going to pass up a chance to dine at Il Verde. Not surprisingly, my expectations were, as always, met and even exceeded.

My window-side table afforded me a panoramic view of the dunes, beach and ocean, which was a little tough to see in the dark, but I knew it was there.

Providing the real visual oomph was the ginormous animated billboard that looms over the Boardwalk and hypes a variety of Trop happenings, like screenings of “Crime 101,” the new Chris Hemsworth-Halle Berry thriller that runs through next Thursday at the hotel’s Imax Theatre, the Shore’s only such facility.

As for my meal, a perfectly executed crabmeat cocktail was followed by a sizable bowl of steamed clams swimming in a pleasingly briny broth seasoned with fennel and fresh herbs. I swear I heard my Italian dinner rolls begging to be dunked in that oh-sopiquant concoction.

The wonderful lobster ravioli entrée was a generous portion of savory dough pillows filled with subtly flavored cheese set in a creamy, sherry-infused sauce and ringed by chunks of sweet lobster meat. The dish was large enough that it and an appetizer could easily satiate two people.

A post-dinner stroll through the casino and some window-shopping in The Quarter, the casino’s 21-year-old retail, dining and entertainment complex, was the evening’s capper; the only thing left on that night’s agenda was the drifting off to Dream Land.

Thursday

My one full day at the Trop began with a hearty breakfast at the outpost of Hash House A Go Go, the national chain of brunch-focused eateries. While I was tempted to check out the Andy’s Sage Fried Chicken Ben -

edict (made with spinach, hickory-smoked bacon, tomato, griddled mozzarella, chipotle cream and scrambled eggs served on a fresh split biscuit with griddled mashed potatoes and fresh fruit garnish) it seemed a bit overwhelming, so I went with a simple platter of two eggs over easy, bacon, toast and small cubes of fried potatoes that were as good as breakfast spuds get.

The afternoon was spent in the poker room — one of only three left in town — where, alas, several hours of carefree fun ended in abject sadness and tragedy when my opponent, against whom I was favored by about 97 percent on this cursed hand, hit a miracle card (the only one in the deck that could give him the pot) and left me emotionally and psychologically shattered.

So, I was particularly happy I chose to have that evening’s dinner at Cuba Libre, the only Cuban-cuisine restaurant in a local gambling den.

At the risk of sounding utterly cheesy, the meal was nothing short of a carnival of flavors. For starters, my dining companion and I shared an order of Octopus Al Carbon, a charcoal-grilled Spanish octopus leg marinated in Chimichurri and served with chickpeas, piquillo pepper and grilled artichoke salpicon (salad) and saffron allioli (garlic and oil).

Our other appetizer was the epic Cha Cha Cha, a plate-busting combo that included Guacamole Cubano; shrimp cocktail; pork masitas (fried, marinated chunks); chicken and ham croquettes; grilled chorizo sausage, chicken chicharrones (seasoned with salt and citrus); black bean hummus and plantain chips.

The first course should have been enough, but being two growing boys, entrees were in order. We split the 16-ounce Churrasco a La Cubana (an eight-ounce portion is also available), which is a grilled skirt steak (perfectly done medium-rare) in a lemon-onion parsley sauce with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, baby arugula and red wine vinaigrette. Suffice it to say, it did not disappoint.

Although stuffed to the proverbial gills and in no need of further nourishment, management insisted on sending over a Havana Banana Split. Served in a huge martini glass, the insanely decadent dessert consisted of vanilla pastry cream; brownies; vanilla and chocolate ice cream; fresh bananas and strawberries; dulce de leche;

chocolate and butterscotch sauce; candied macadamia nuts and fresh whipped cream. In short, it probably provided a week’s worth of calories — but hey, this was a vacation, right?

If nothing else, all that sugar gave me the energy for several hours of nightlife. First stop was the Atlantic City Comedy Club, located in Royce Social Hall on The Quarter’s second level. The multi-purpose party pit’s small stage is a perfect setting for standup comedy. The three young funny folks (and emcee/club director “Papa” Rus Gutin) put in a solid 90 minutes (show-closer Noah Miller was especially notable). While the ACCC is firmly on a lower rung of show business and you’re unlikely to see a “known” act there, keep in mind that that was also the case at the legendary Comedy Stop At the Trop, whose talent roster included such future superstars as Ray Romano, Rosie O’Donnell and Drew Carey.

The night ended watching the revelers and having a nightcap at Boogie Nights, the retro-themed disco that is a lot more intimate and fun (at least to these eyes and ears) than the standard, EDM-heavy casino dance club.

Friday

The best was saved for last. Before I left the Trop, I hit the Sea Spa Sanctuary (located on the ground

floor of the Chelsea Tower across the Morris Avenue pedestrian bridge) for a recharging of batteries before resuming my daily tangos with life’s stressors (you know, like deadlines and bad-beat poker hands). In the name of fearless-at-all-costs journalism, I booked the Zen Journey Package, a 110-minute dive into pure hedonism (the sacrifices I make for you people!).

The first half included a hydrating

facial with a scalp massage and a foot scrub. Therapist Valerie Welsh, who in total applied 10 different lotions, potions and ointments to my face, arms, legs and other body parts, also included the use of what she called an ultrasonic skin scrubber, which scraped away blackheads and whiteheads on my face and forehead. All of it was relaxing, refreshing and intensely satisfying (and my face had an unaccustomed glow).

After that came a 50-minute Swedish massage that sealed my trip to Nirvana. Therapist Jesse Leeds (yes, she’s a member of the famed local family) expertly kneaded and manipulated my muscles to the point the world at large (as well as my skeleton) seemed to melt away.

It was the perfect way to end a much-needed timeout.

Final points

What was described above may not be financially feasible for everyone. But there are more moderately priced dining and spa-treatment options, and midweek rooms can definitely be had for under $100 per night.

And because of time constraints, there were unexplored activities, including Our Town’s only Escape Room, the aforementioned IMAX Theatre and such nightspots as Planet Rose Karaoke Bar and the modern danceteria, Kiss-Kiss Nighclub. And of course, the sprawling casino floor with thousands of electronic games, slot machines and gaming tables.

For more info, go to https://www. caesars.com/tropicana-ac.

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

Local rockers Deardarkhead releasing new album ‘The Pendulum Swings’ in A.C. Saturday

Tune In, Turn On

With Doug Deutsch

Regular readers of this column know that we’ve always had a soft spot for local talent. There’s some terrific bands performing original music at the shore including Gutterdrunk, Twisted Livin’, Te Vista, Reckless Randy, senior statesmen rocker, Malcolm Tent, 1adam12 and more.

With that in mind, it’s a pleasure to write about a band called Deardarkhead.

Formed in 1988, DD’s sound incorporates guitar-driven shoegaze and dreampop, with post-punk and psychedelic influences. Last time we saw this indie rock trio, they performed a solid set at WLFR’s Anniversary Party in 2024.

“Our new 10-song album is called

‘The Pendulum Swings’ and we will be releasing it on CD, vinyl and digital through our own Fertile Crescent Records label later in 2026,” Robert Weiss, Deardarkhead’s drummer, told us in an email interview last week.

It was recorded at Miner Street Recordings in Philadelphia with owners Brian McTear and Amy Morrissey, who have hosted recordings by countless artists including The War on Drugs, Kurt Vile, Sharon Van Etten and The Dead Milkmen.

The members of Deardarkhead are Kevin Harrington (guitar, vocals), Weiss (drums), and bassist James Malizia, who joined the group in 2024.

Deardarkhead has released five recordings since forming Fertile Crescent Records. Their music has also appeared on various indie compilations from the uSA and Japan. Captured Tracks released a retrospective of their early material called “Oceanside: 1991-1993” as the second contribution to their “Shoegaze Archives” series at the end of 2011.

The band joined Saint Marie Records, a label specializing in shoegaze, dreampop, indiepop and electronic

music, in 2015. Their first recording for the label, “Strange Weather,” was released in March 2016 and was critically lauded.

Local music fans have an opportunity to see the somewhat-reclusive band when they perform at Little Water Distillery, 807 Baltic Ave., unit B (“enter from Lexington Avenue,” advises Weiss) in Atlantic City Saturday, Feb. 21. The distillery opens at 1 p.m., Le Onde Coal Fire Pizza Truck will be there at 5 p.m. and the show is at 7 p.m.

“It's a free show and we will be performing 18 songs, including the majority of the new album, all of our last EP, plus a brand new song and much older material as well,” said Weiss, who is also a talented graphic designer.

“I recently helped out Malcolm Tent with some design work for his latest album (‘A Fade Worse Than Deaf’) at the request of Adam Berardo (1Adam12) who also plays with Malcolm on the recording with his sons Niko and Desi (Te Vista),” Weiss said. “I was happy to lend a hand, as I have known Malcolm a long time. He

was very happy with it.”

More information on Deardarkhead can be found on Instagram, Facebook, X and at deardarkhead. com.

Tune-Ups

AC Rare Beer Fest at Anchor Rock Club Announced:

To coincide with the final year of the long-running Atlantic City Beer Fest, founder Jon Henderson is presenting a special event at Anchor Rock Club. “For our 20th anniversary sendoff, we’re dropping a one-night-only Rare Beer Festival at Anchor Rock Club, the unofficial “secret session” of #ACBeerFest,” said a communique we received as we went to press. “This intimate, 350-person insider hang features 25 of the region’s most unique, smallbatch, cellar-aged, casked, weird, wild and otherwise impossible-to-find beers, each poured with the stories, insight and personality straight from the brewers themselves.” The date is Friday, April 10, 7-11 p.m.

Tickets/info: https://www.tixr. com/e/171873

Thursday, February 19

Atlantic City

Bar One at Resorts

Live & Local Music Calendar

Karaoke w/ Cowboy Kevin

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Dane Anthony

8 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Triple Rail Turn

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Rick Agronick

5 – 8 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

Somers Point Gregory’s

Bob & Bob

6 p.m.

800 Shore Rd.

Josie Kelly’s

Toni Teschner & Billy

Walton

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Friday, February 20

Atlantic City

Anchor Rock Club

Johnny Zarfati w/ Dylan Zangwill

8 p.m.

247 S. New York Ave.

Borgata B Bar

Sky City Social Trio

7:30 – 11 p.m.

Embers the Band

11:30 p.m. – 3 a.m.

1 Borgata Way

Bar One at Resorts

Jagged 6 – 9 p.m.

DJ Gary

9:15 p.m. – late 1133 Boardwalk

Byrdcage

Piano Bar with Nick Myers

5 – 8 p.m.

3426 Atlantic Ave.

Council Oak Lounge at Hard Rock

Christopher Farrell Trio

6 – 10 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Vahe & Camille K

7 p.m.

Gypsy Wisdom

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Phil’s Carousel Bar at Bally’s

Paul Tozz

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1900 Pacific Ave.

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Maddie Hogan Duo

6 p.m.

The Exceptions

10 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Daddy Pop

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Wave at Golden Nugget

Who’s Next: The Who Tribute

9 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The West at Caesars

The Benderz

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

2100 Pacific Ave.

Egg Harbor City

Blue Heron Pines

Dueling Pianos

6 – 9 p.m.

550 Country Club Dr.

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Rob Silvers

6 – 9 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

The Roost Pub & Grill

Friday Night Music Bingo

6:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr.

Galloway

279 Social

Five Dollar Shakes Duo

Elks Lodge: Somers Point - Mays Landing Rd (Route 559), Egg Harbor Township

7 – 10 p.m.

279 S. New York Rd.

Margate

Bocca

Cole Moore

7 – 9 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Memories

DJ Mikey Hodges

10 p.m.

9518 Amherst Ave.

Sunrise Tequila

DJ Krazy

8 p.m.

9700 Ventnor Ave.

Somers

Josie Kelly’s

8 p.m.

908

7:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 21

Anchor

Jawn

8 p.m.

247

7:30

11:30

1

6

9:15

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Wave at Golden Nugget Triple Rail Turn 8 p.m.

600 Huron Ave. Egg Harbor Township A Touch of Italy

Taylor Lenahan 6 – 9 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

The Roost Pub & Grill Dueling Pianos

6:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr. Margate Memories DJ Chris Roberts 10 p.m. 9518 Amherst Ave.

Sunrise Tequila Bar Kirra & Shane 1 – 4 p.m. DJ Rockstar 8 p.m.

9700 Ventnor Ave.

Somers Point

Josie Kelly’s Twisted Livin’ 8 p.m.

908 Shore Rd. Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Stone Flower: Santana Tribute

Continued on 44

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Uplifting, funny, and full of nostalgia; it’s the perfect show for audiences of all ages!

Ask about group sales!

Band

7:30 p.m.

217 E. Main St.

Sunday, February 22

Atlantic City

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Dueling Pianos

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Good N Plenty

7 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Level up

5 – 8:30 p.m.

The Audio Files

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Sinatra Sunday w/ Zach Taglioni

5 – 8 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

Linwood

Jessie’s of Linwood

Brad Wilson

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

136 W. Poplar Ave.

Margate

Sunrise Tequila Bar

Cole Moore

1 – 4 p.m.

9700 Ventnor Ave.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Heather Maloney & Hayley Reardon

7:30 p.m.

217 E. Main St.

Monday, February 23

Atlantic City

Byrdcage

Music Monday with Kelli Glover

7 – 10 p.m.

3426 Atlantic Ave.

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Red

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Sidestory

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Gregory’s

Tom Angelo’s All-Star Jazz Series

7 p.m.

800 Shore Rd.

Tuesday, February 24

Absecon

Reddog’s Hi Point Pub

Karaoke Night w/ Lori Kelley

7 p.m.

5 N. Shore Rd.

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge at Hard Rock

Sinatra Night

5 – 8:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Patty & Bugzy

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Turning the Tide

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Music Bingo w/ DJ Chris

7 – 9 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Josie Kelly’s

DJ Ken

5 – 9 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Wednesday, February 25

Atlantic City

Bar One at Resorts

DJ Gary

9:15 p.m. – 12 a.m.

1133 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Michael Stevens

8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Big Bang Baby

7 – 11 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Margate

Bocca

Live Jazz with Bob Sterling & The Bocca Boys

7 – 10 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Somers Point

Caroline’s by the Bay

Open Mic Night w/ Blue Eagle

7:30 – 11:30 p.m.

450 Bay Ave.

Crab Trap

That 70’s Band

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Josie Kelly’s

Jimmy Brogan

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Events subject to change.

By Steffen Klenk

Love was in the air last weekend as crowds gathered in Sea Isle City for an annual event supporting individuals with autism in our community. The Mike’s Seafood Run Walk for Autism was held last Saturday, Feb. 14, welcoming record crowds to the coastal community. This year’s fundraiser welcomed over 5,000 participants

Valentine Inspired Jason Kelce, thousands support autism fundraiser in Sea Isle

and attendees.

Eagles legend Jason Kelce was among the participants. Kelce made several stops to interact with fans, including Chloe Byrne of Cape May Court House. Byrne, who was volunteering at the event, had a warm interaction with the football star, asking if she could be on his podcast.

“That’s a fair question; that’s a good idea” Kelce responded. “We’re on a break right now, but, yeah, we

Rose the royal

FEBRUARY 4TH - 28TH

can probably work that out somehow.”

Byrne responded enthusiastically. “I would love that.”

Kelce is a frequent visitor to Sea Isle City and has supported various autism fundraisers and initiatives. Last year, he hosted the annual Team 62 fundraiser, an event that has raised millions of dollars for the Eagles Autism Foundation.

Mike Monichetti, founder of the annual Run Walk for Autism and longtime owner of Mike’s Seafood, spoke about the impact of Jason Kelce and his wife Kylie. “It makes you feel lucky that you’re recognized by people like that. They can choose any shore community to go to, but they chose Sea Isle as their second home and (the city) is blessed to have them. They’re great ambassadors in autism awareness.”

ago, there was not one mention of autism, and now you can’t go anywhere without seeing something about autism.”

Prior to the start of the race, hundreds filed into the heated tents

Monichetti expressed his gratitude to the teams and individuals that made this year’s fundraiser possible. “I tell Jason (Kelce) every year that this is the day I feel like I won the Super Bowl.”

Since its inception in 2009, the Run Walk for Autism has raised more than $1 million for autism support groups, special services school districts, and families of individuals on the spectrum throughout the region. Organizers aim to surpass last year’s record of $196,000. “Eighteen years

at Excursion Park for refreshments and beverages, with raffle prizes and activities for the kids. Several local businesses and nonprofits also made appearances, offering resources for parents and young adults living with autism spectrum disorder. Among this year’s attendees included Shore Medical Center, Autism New Jersey, The Arc of Cape May County, Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, and Sea Isle City Shooting Stars.

A Steel Pier memory and a Vegas legacy

By Bruce Klauber

Antonio

Giuseppe Pettine

was a Philadelphia auto and aircraft mechanic who always had a way with a song. At the age of 25, he decided to give up mechanics in favor of a career as a professional entertainer.

A recent, non-bylined piece in The Five Mile Beach Sun explains how he got his start:

“In the summer of 1967, he walked into The Elmira, then a swinging local club in Wildwood that would actually book Stevie Wonder that season. He told the manager that he and his band were looking for work – though, as fate would have it, he didn’t technically have a band at the time. undeterred, he returned to Philadelphia where he fortuitously found a band in need of a singer. With no time to waste, they quickly rehearsed 10 songs and took the stage that Friday

night, opening with ‘Devil with a Blue Dress On’.”

But on that night at The Elmira, he was not introduced as Antonio Giuseppe Pettine; he was announced as Cook E. Jarr, and the band’s name was The Krums. That was the beginning of a 50-year career as one of the legendary lounge acts.

From the late 1960s until the late 1970s, Jarr was a mainstay in Wildwood at The Elmira and the Barn, and also at the Oasis in Somers Point. His first venture, to Vegas circa 1975, was not a success. Jarr and The Krums were alternating with the tremendously popular lounge act, The Checkmates, within the Nero’s Nook lounge at Caesars. Jarr just didn’t go over.

“mod” hairdo and a plethora of gold chains. He wore that get-up on stage until his last days. Tom Krawiec, a fan from the early days, wrote a tribute to Jarr upon the lounge legend’s passing on Jan. 16 of 2025.

this is cool!

“Eight years later in 1979 I made my first visit to one of the casinos in Atlantic City, and as I walked past one of the lounges I heard this band absolutely cooking through some soul number. I poked my head in and I soon realized that right there on stage was the legendary Cook E. Jarr! He’s gliding across the stage, mic stand swingin’, soul shoutin’, giving it everything he had. The saddest part was that there was no one in there on a Tuesday night to see it, but I had so much respect for him because he did give it all he had. He was the consummate performer, a true professional entertainer.”

“The whole town had a Rat Pack vibe,” he said at the time. “That’s cool, but it’s not my cup of tea.”

Caesars paid off his contract and sent him back to Atlantic City where he developed a tremendous following. During his stint in several casino lounges, he won Atlantic City Magazine’s “Best Lounge Act” award several times.

By that point his stage makeup included dark glasses, a heavily sprayed

“I first became aware of Cook E. Jarr in the summer of 1971,” wrote Krawiec. “I was watching a local Philadelphia television dance show called ‘Summertime on The Pier’ that was broadcast from the Steel Pier, when on came this wild guy named Cook E. Jarr and his band, The Krums, performing a song called ‘Who Wears Hot Pants?’ an updated version of the song ‘Who Wears Short Shorts?’ I was 11 years old and I thought…well

FEBRUARY SPECIALS 2 COURSE MENU

He was working at Atlantic City’s Claridge when Las Vegas beckoned again. On June 2, 1982, Jarr and the band left Atlantic City and arrived at the Sands in Las Vegas for what was supposed to be a two-week stint. He performed in Las Vegas lounges for more than 40 years.

“I’ve worked the MGM, the Tropicana, Caesars, Bally’s,” he told Carol Cling of the Las Vegas Review-Jour-

↘Continued on 48

nal. “But at least those places are still standing, unlike The Silver Slipper –we called it the Sleazy Slipper – and the El Roacho, alias the now imploded El Rancho.”

For the last five or so years of his performing life, Jarr worked as a single, sans The Krums, singing along with pre-recorded accompanying tracks at Harrah’s Carnival Court on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Though his glory days as a Vegas lounge legend were behind him, Jarr still gave it everything he had.

“The music may have changed, with hip-hop hits from Nelly, 50 Cent, usher and OutKast joining old standbys from Steppenwolf to Kool and the Gang,” wrote Carol Cling. “But the act remains much the same. It’s booming, booty-shaking music with plentiful patter from the motor mouth musician, punctuated by the Cookster’s dog barks, imitation engine-revving and other trademark sound effects.

Late night television’s Jimmy Kimmel, who had Jarr on as a guest several times, said that Jarr was “a great fit for Vegas. He was exactly the kind of thing people hoped to see when they’re there.”

His act? “At first glance, you think, what is this?” Kimmel said. “Then you’re amused for a little while, and

then you start to think, Hey… he’s pretty good.”

upon his passing, the Discogs.com website deemed Cook E. Jarr “the ultimate lounge lizard.”

Something tells me that Antonio Giuseppe Pettine would have been proud of that.

Speaking of lounge entertainment

In our “shameless self-promotion” department, I’ll be singing the jazz side of the Frank Sinatra Songbook 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23 at Gregory’s in Somers Point with pianist Dean Schneider, bassist Andy Lalasis and Tom Angello on drums.

This is part of Tom Angello’s All-Star Monday Night Jazz Series, sponsored by the South Jersey Jazz Society. Admission: patron members $10, SJJS members $15, and non-members $20. Seating is firstcome, first-served. Reservations: 609-289-0326.

Bruce Klauber is the author of four books, an award-winning music journalist, concert and record producer and publicist, producer of the Warner Brothers and Hudson Music "Jazz Legends" film series, and performs both as a drummer and vocalist.

Wine: The tannic effect

Drink Up!

By David Setley

“Tannins” is a wine term I am frequently asked to explain to folks who come into the store or to our wine tasting events. I’ve found that even wine enthusiasts who have enjoyed wine for many years find the term to be confusing. So, let’s take a deeper dive into the topic.

Scientifically speaking, tannins are a phenolic compound, which, according to sciencedirect.com, are among the most common chemicals found in many plants throughout the world. They are one of the most significant secondary metabolites (the most important components behind the health benefits and medicinal properties of the plants) and are largely responsible for the antioxidant attributed to many “superfoods,” including cacao (dark chocolate), blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, pomegranates, grapes,

legumes, walnuts and pecans. They are also abundant in tea (especially black and green tea) and coffee.

Tannins are present in the skins of wine grapes. After harvesting the grapes, the winemaking process continues with what is commonly called the crushing of the grapes. I know we all just had an image of Lucille Ball stomping grapes in a gigantic barrel in Italy, right? In modern winemaking, Lucille stays on the sidelines as crushing is accomplished by a ma -

chine that very gently squeezes the grapes enough to separate the juice, referred to as “must” in wine-speak, from the skins, seeds and stems, called “pomace.”

Fun wine fact: The overwhelming majority of wine grapes have clear juice, regardless of whether the grape itself is red or white. Without the skins having contact with the juice during fermentation, most wines would be white. In other words, if the winemaker’s goal is to produce

a white wine, he or she removes the skins before the juice continues to ferment. The exceptions are grapes referred to as “teinturier grapes.”

Alicante bouschet, a grape from Portugal, is one such exception. See why this varietal is a favorite of mine by trying the Cartuxa Evora Tinto Reserva. This outstanding red wine from the Alentejo region of Portugal is 70% alicante bouschet and 30% aragonez and is, in my experience, the best example of a wine made from a teinturier grape.

If a red wine is the winemaker’s objective, the “must” and the “pomace” remain in contact during maceration. Simply stated, maceration is a soaking process where the tannins are gradually transferred from the skins to the juice. The juice will take on the color, the flavor and the antioxidant qualities discussed above. The duration of maceration depends on how tannic the winemaker wants the wine to be. For most red wines, maceration can be as short as a week or two, and as long as a month or so. As you may have guessed, rosé wine is accomplished by allowing the skins to macerate for a very short time in the juice, resulting in the familiar pink color. In general, the longer the skins

have contact with the juice, the higher the concentration of tannins. The thickness of the grape skin can also play a part in this. It is all part of the science and artistry of winemaking.

In addition to color, tannins affect wine by adding to the flavor and mouthfeel of the wine. Prior to fermentation, wine grape juice is sweet. In fermentation, yeast consumes much of the sugar and turns it into alcohol and carbon dioxide. The sugar that remains is called residual sugar and is a major determinant in how sweet or dry the wine is. Tannins have a slightly bitter taste that, together with remaining residual sugar, adds to the complexity of red wine. Bitterness may not sound appealing, but think of how tea, coffee and dark chocolate have significant bitter components but are still considered delicious. It is the same for wines.

Finally, tannins give wine an astringent effect, commonly referred to as dryness. As mentioned, tannins are a phenolic compound, which binds proteins. The saliva on your tongue and in your mouth is full of proteins that the tannins bind, making your tongue, gums and palate feel dry. This is why high-tannin wines pair well with red meats. The tannic effect counters the fattiness of the meat.

If you would like to experience the tannic effect of wine for yourself, buy a bottle of pinot noir (a relatively low-tannin red wine), a bottle of cabernet sauvignon (a relatively high-tannin wine), and a bottle of syrah. Two pinot noir options to consider would be the Domaine Valéry Le P'tit Renaudat from France or the Bellande Pinot Noir from Oregon.

For the cabernet sauvignon, grab a Cab-based blend from Bordeaux, such as the Chateau Kirwan Private Reserve from Margaux, France or the

Joel Gott 815 cabernet sauvignon from California. For syrah, try the Truchard - Syrah from Napa Valley, California. Pour a tasting of each and observe them side-by-side. Notice the variations in darkness and opacity of the wine from the least to the most tannic. Take a couple sips of each in order of least tannic (pinot noir) to most tannic (syrah) and notice the increased astringent/drying effect of the more tannic wines. In addition, you may notice that the flavor profile of the more tannic wines, the cabernet sauvignon and the syrah, are more complex than the pinot noir. And, of course, enjoy the wine!

Some wine enthusiasts enjoy more tannic wines while others prefer less tannic wines. The choice is up to you. There is a wine for everyone’s palate.

Do tannins cause headaches? According to Harvard Health Publishing Online, maybe, for those who are particularly sensitive to tannins, but for the majority, no. The likely suspect for most is the alcohol. Alcohol can cause blood vessels to dilate, thus causing headaches. If you are someone who gets headaches when drinking red wine, drink a glass of water for each glass of wine to help alleviate the problem.

I hope this short discussion has given you a bit more understanding of tannins. As always, if you have questions or comments, contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com or stop by the Somers Point store. until next time, Happy Wining!

DISCOVER THE ALL NEW

TRADE IN, TRADE UP

Trade in your Old Clubs

Trade up for New Clubs

March 7 Fight Night features South Jersey knock-outs

On March 7, Boxing Insider Promotions returns to the Tropicana Showroom for its seventh fight card in less than two years, and the roster reads like a who’s-who of South Jersey’s best young talent. It’s an evening that would have been hard to imagine just a few years ago, when the venue hadn’t hosted a professional fight in seven years.

'I want to bring a good fight to my city'

154 and realized boxing was what he wanted to do.

These days, it’s all he does. He left his job on the Atlantic City Beach Patrol to train full-time. “I love what I do, I love training, I love boxing, I love being competitive,” Figueroa has said. “Hopefully I can take it to world champion status.”

'Every heavyweight has to fear getting in the ring with me'

If Figueroa is the headliner, Josh “The Hammer” Popper might be the most intriguing fighter on the card.

Justin “Mr. Atlantic City” Figueroa headlines again on March 7, which is becoming a habit. The 26-year-old Holy Spirit grad has fought five times at the Tropicana — starting with a sixround win over Antoni Armas on the venue’s first card, followed by a second-round knockout of Argentina’s Mario Gaston Rios, and then last November’s fourth-round stoppage of Perdomo to capture the Junior NABF Super Welterweight Championship. He’s now 16-0 with 12 knockouts.

The 32-year-old Egg Harbor Township native is another Holy Spirit product — a defensive end on the Spartans’ undefeated 2010 state championship team alongside future NFL quarterback Joe Callahan. Popper went on to play football at Rowan u niversity and earned tryouts with the Arizona Cardinals and Indianapolis Colts.

Figueroa didn’t take a straight path to the ring. A standout running back and wrestler at Holy Spirit, he dreamed of playing college football. “I just didn’t have the grades,” he said. “My GPA didn’t add up. I wasn’t focused in high school.” After a semester at Rowan u niversity, he started hitting the heavy bag at the Atlantic City PAL to lose weight from his football days — he’d been walking around at 215 pounds. He dropped to

When the NFL didn’t work out, he didn’t slow down. He started boxing, and the athletic gifts that made him a Division III standout translated immediately. Popper turned pro in 2024, is 5-0 with 3 knockouts, and fights with a fluidity that doesn’t match his size.

“I like to consider myself a very smooth boxer,” Popper told 973 ESPN. “I move very fluid, I box as if I was a middleweight, but obviously I’m a heavyweight. So that’s something that every heavyweight has to fear

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getting in the ring with me — being able to match my speed, my IQ, my athleticism, my footwork.”

Popper made his Atlantic City debut on the November card, picking up a victory in front of a hometown crowd that had been waiting to see him fight live. He returns March 7 looking to push his record to 6-0. He’s also the founder of Bredwinners Boxing, building a brand that he hopes will outlast his fighting career.

'Boxing probably saved my life'

For Julio “Julez” Sanchez III, fighting is a family inheritance. His great-grandfather, Lincoln Green, was a boxing manager. His father, Julio Sanchez Jr., is a decorated former welterweight who went on to serve in the army and retire as a Pleasantville firefighter. Now he trains his son at the Pleasantville Recreation Center.

ted to it, and he’s done that. I’m very proud of him.” Julez made his pro debut at the Tropicana in March 2025 and is now 3-1 with 2 KOs, fighting in the super lightweight division.

Like father, like son

The younger Sanchez was a point guard at Pleasantville High School and played college basketball in California before coming home and losing his way. His best friend, Byron Jones, was shot and killed at 18. “It hit me extremely hard,” Sanchez has said. “We grew up together, played junior football for the Pleasantville Jokers together.” He drifted into trouble before finding his way to the gym. “Boxing probably saved my life in a way.” His father wasn’t easy to convince. “He’s always wanted to box and I was always against it,” Sanchez Jr. has said. “I told him if he really wanted to do this, he had to be totally commit-

John “Bodyshot” Leonardo (121-1, 6 KOs) is another fighter whose corner man is also his father. The 24-year-old super bantamweight from Manalapan Township is trained by Donald Leonardo and has been fighting professionally since 2021. He holds the ABF uSA championship, is riding a five-fight winning streak, and brings one of the deepest résumés on the March 7 card. He faces Millville’s Edgar Cortes in an all-Jersey matchup.

'From the nice, passive

everyday person to ready to legally kill someone in a ring'

Lia “Rogue” Lewandowski didn’t

grow up planning to become a professional fighter. The Berlin, New Jersey native studied political science at Drexel university and was aiming for a career in national security. Then COVID shut down those opportunities, and she walked into a boxing gym. By 2022, she was competing. By 2024, she was a top-five nationally ranked amateur at 114 pounds.

Lewandowski made her Tropicana debut on the November card, beating Chantel Sumral to improve to 3-0. The crowd took to her immediately. She’ll tell you she’s never been in a street fight, never been the confrontational type — but when the bell rings, something changes. “From the nice, passive everyday person to ready to legally kill someone in a ring,” she’s said. On March 7, she faces Indeya Rodriguez.

Her ambitions aren’t small. “The endgame is to be number one in the world,” Lewandowski has said. For now, she trains at Berlin’s Kennel Fighting Fitness Club, inspires young female athletes at local schools, and keeps building a following that’s growing with every fight.

The bigger picture

What connects all of these fighters — besides geography — is that they’re building their careers in front of people who actually know them. Figueroa’s fans went to Holy Spirit with him. Sanchez’s father is in his corner, literally. Popper played football against kids in the crowd. That’s what makes a Friday night at the Tropicana feel different from a fight card in some convention center three states away.

The March 7 card also features international talent — Pakistan’s Jahanzeb Rizwan and Ireland’s Jim Torney, a 6’9” heavyweight — rounding out an evening that mixes local pride with global flavor. Boxing Insider Promotions, led by Margate’s Larry Goldberg, a two-time New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Promoter of the Year, has also invested in the community through its annual Battle of the Beach amateur showcase with the Atlantic City PAL, twice putting local kids on real fight cards.

But on March 7, the story is the fighters. Five South Jersey kids — a lifeguard, a football player, a basketball player, a softball player, and a boxer’s son — who all found their way to the same ring in the same city. Doors open at 6 p.m. at the Tropicana Showroom. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

Louis J Rondinella MD, Retirement

I retired my practice on December 31, 2025.

Effective December 31, 2025 we have retained Cariend, a medical records custodian, to manage the records for the next 10-19 years. Cariend is not a medical provider and does not handle billing, medications, or referrals for the closed practice.

Requestors should be prepared to complete the Records Release Authorization Form and provide a copy of government-issued photo ID, as required by HIPAA. The fastest way to process requests for copies of medical records is to visit Cariend’s website and follow the instructions posted here: https://www.cariend.com/request-records/

If you do not have access to a computer or internet, Cariend can be reached by phone at 404 991-7080 – please note the HIPAA laws do not allow medical records to be released based on a phone or email request. If you prefer to mail your completed Authorization Form and Government-issued Photo ID: Cariend ROI PO Box 1866 Thomasville, GA 31799-1866

If you have questions about the process, Cariend can also be contacted via email at Request@Cariend.com however, you should not send sensitive personal information or request documents through email.

I can help you put the pieces together.

Timing the markets: A sucker bet

By T. Eric Reich

In the world of casinos, there are quite a few bets that would be considered a “sucker bet” — a bet that seems like a good idea with enticing odds that almost never works out. In the world of investing, one of the all-time sucker bets is market timing. On the surface, market timing seems like a pretty easy thing to do. In reality, it is nearly impossible, and the odds of losing money are nearly certain. Why, then, do we constantly try to place sucker bets, whether it be in casinos or investing? Marketing and media coverage are certainly one of the primary drivers. At the casinos, my wife is immediately drawn to the “Wheel of Fortune” slots. Yes, she knows slots are one of the classic sucker bets in a casino, but whether it’s the flashing lights or simply the lure of a big jackpot, she plays them every time we go. The odds are

surely not in her favor versus other casino games, but the temptation is just too great for her.

Market timing is so dangerous because, honestly, it just seems pretty easy to do. I hear, on a weekly basis, clients try to rationalize why they want to wait to get into the markets or why they think this year is going to be good or bad. They rationalize that sitting in cash for a while can’t hurt because “at least I won’t lose any money.” The reality is, yes, you are losing money by sitting in cash. In periods of higher inflation, you are losing the inflation rate minus the small amount you are being credited in your cash account. When economic news is virtually all bad, and remember that “bad news sells” in terms of

viewership or readership, then suddenly everyone becomes a market or economic expert.

So what’s the big deal? If I’m wrong, and I get into the market a little later than everyone else or I come in and out a few times, at least I can sleep at night, right? Well, let’s look at what a big deal it really is, and maybe you’ll be losing more sleep than you thought. Here is what the real data tells us.

According to Bankrate, if you invested $100,000 in the S&P 500 on Jan. 1, 1995, and left it there through Jan. 1, 2026, you would have the following compound annual growth rates:

● Stayed invested: 10-11%

● Missed the best 10 days: 6.3%

● Missed the best 20 days: 2.8-4.5%

● Missed the best 50 days: 0.6%

That’s a 10% per year return difference for only missing 50 days. Do you honestly believe you know which 50 days out of the next 30-plus years are going to be the best ones? When you put the data on paper, it seems ridiculous that anyone would even try to time the market. Yet it’s a conversation we have all the time with clients. Missing the best 50 days, assuming you started with $100,000, could result in a final portfolio value substantially lower than the original

investment. I often tell clients that while fees are very important, I’d much rather pay a small fee than lose out on potential earnings. Always make sure you’re focusing on the big picture.

Turn off the noise, stop trying to guess when a good or bad time is to invest, and simply invest your money in low-cost, well-diversified portfolios and leave it alone. The market will do all the work for you and save you from making yet another sucker bet. Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.

Eric is President and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC. He relies on his 25 years of experience to help clients have an enjoyable retirement. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (CIMA®) and has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations.

Myriad milestones and joys of puppyhood

By Heidi Clayton

Lots of milestones happened this week with my puppies!

The first being that all of them have opened their eyes. Plus, they are beginning to hear me when I come into the room. I absolutely melted when one of them, Mochi Donut, waddled towards me and wagged his tail. All of the babies now have names starting with Mochi Donut, Bento Box, Yuki, Soba Noodle, Oni, and our princess of the litter, Miss Kiyome Kim.

While their eyes are open and they are becoming more stable on their legs, my puppies are still in the transitional phase from the neonatal phase to the critical socialization phase, which is when I will get down to business and start exposing them to the world they are expected to live in by giving them daily enrichment and interactions with new things. I

call this time of puppyhood “the potato with legs” phase. The puppies have fat little bodies, and their little legs are just starting to be able to support them to walk a bit more steadily.

Another milestone is they have started to go to the bathroom on their own. I have added a little puppy bed to the box and a plush toy that they will instinctively crawl away from to urinate. They have pooped on their own, but usually at this point in their lives, their mothers are still harboring intense maternal instincts where they are still cleaning the pups' butts. It

•

is a big deal that puppies learn to potty away from where they sleep as they age, especially when I start to crate-train them and begin the housebreaking process.

A big question I am always asked is when to wean the puppies off of mom. Every breeder I know has a different opinion and weaning method, but I personally have always let my mothers decide when they are done with that job. Right now, Miki is still producing a lot of milk and very much wants to be with her puppies. Though when she has had enough of them,

she will get up and leave the box on her own. Last week, I had to enforce separation and nap time. I am still hand-feeding her to make sure she eats enough. Also, I decided the puppies might be ready for a meal after they all sniffed her food dish out and came crawling over to investigate. Their first meal was warmed goat milk mixed with human-baby rice cereal and jarred beef baby food on top. The puppies dove right in and got just as much on them as they did into them. As they grow, I will transition them to the raw food diet mixed with goat milk and increase the amount they are getting. Right now, they have all tripled their body weight and are right where I want them to be growth-wise.

While they are in their potato phase, there is not a lot of true enrichment going on, but there is a tremendous amount of cuddling and snuggling going on. I am letting friends come to visit and enjoy themselves, wasting time just loving on them. Follow their progress on Facebook at Four on the Floor Dog Training.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

3/31/26

3/31/26

SHORE FUNNY

Texting Codes

When Teens Text

BFF “Best Friend Forever”

LOL ” Laughing Out Loud”

OMG "Oh My God”

DWI “Deal With It”

TGIF "Thank God It's Friday!"

BTW “By The Way”

TTYL: “Talk To You later”

When Seniors Text

BFF “Best Friend Fell”

LOL: “Little Old Lady”

OMG "Oy, My Grandchildren!"

DWI “Driving While Incontinent”

TGIF: "Thank God It's Four."

BTW “Bring The Wheelchair”

TTYL: “Talk To You Louder”

SUDOKU

Solution on page 62

THEME: THE 1990s

ACROSS

1. *First cloned mammal

6. Fuel economy acronym

9. Land measure

13. Pascal of "The Mandalorian" fame

14. Second O in EVOO

15. a.k.a. sergeant fish or robalo

16. Plant fungus

17. *"Titanic" star

18. *"The ____ Whisperer" (1998)

19. *PepsiCo offering

21. *One of the Walsh twins, 90210

23. Long reef dweller

24. Reach a high

25. Color of passion

28. Agitate

30. Like Matryoshka inside Matryoshka

35. Gave the boot

37. Arab League member

39. One of Florida Keys

40. Summer month

41. Polished diamond surface

43. Safecracker

44. Lazybones

46. Before "saw" and "conquered"

47. Glitch

48. Watercraft

50. Remains repository

52. Like some martinis

53. Comfort

55. One in a pod

57. *____ bubble

60. *The 1990s, a.k.a. post-____ ____ decade

64. Biblical patriarch

65. Sensitive subject?

67. "Bad news travels fast," e.g.

68. ____ ____ shopping cart

69. Father's progeny

70. Trojan War epic

71. Difficult situation

72. Like jalape o

73. So out it's in

DOWN

1. Design detail

2. M nchen mister

3. Jittery

4. Irregularly notched

5. *Harry of Privet Drive

6. Gangster's gal

7. *"American ____" (1999)

8. Geography class prop

9. Any minute, arch.

10. Cut at birth

11. Parks on a bus

12. ____ out a living

15. Israeli monetary unit

20. Remote in manner

22. Did a marathon, e.g.

24. Mollify

25. *Assassinated Gandhi

26. Radiate

27. Small wooded hollows

29. *Apple offering

31. Simon does what?

32. Influencer's creation

33. Daytime moth

34. *Snoop ____ Dogg

36. Coloring substances

38. Nautilus' captain

42. Allegro or lento

45. Repeat an echo

49. Pathet ____

51. *Fresh Prince's town

54. *____ Mouth of "All Star" fame

56. Discombobulate

57. *Jeff Bridges in "The Big Lebowski," with The

58. Made in Vegas

59. Makes lace

60. One-tenth of a dime

61. *"____ Wait... Don't Tell Me!" on NPR

62. Petri dish gel

63. Do over

64. Fruit spread

66. *____ Goo Dolls of "Name" fame

The Cosmic Connection with Ursula Duffy

Rising Sign Horoscopes for Feb. 19 – 25

Aries: Your word for the week is embodiment. Your identity and becoming your true self have been themes for a while. Be unwavering in your authenticity and brazen selfhood.

Taurus: Your word for the week is liminal. Realizing parts of yourself that have been unknown or dormant has been a theme for a while. Attune to your dreams to embrace more of your soul.

Gemini: Your word for the week is community. Seeing the true colors and intentions of those with whom you surround yourself has been a theme for a while. Firm boundaries are essential.

Cancer: Your word for the week is profession. Whether or not you shrink yourself for the sake of others is a big lesson. Embrace your power and authority and rise to the occasion.

Leo: Your word for the week is evolution. Having the courage to push yourself beyond limits has been a theme for a while. Remember the adage “go big or go home”, exceed and excel.

Virgo: Your word for the week is shadow. Exploring parts of yourself

Weekly Horoscopes

you’d rather keep hidden or unshared has been deep inner work. Keep excavating and practicing the art of vulnerability.

Libra: Your word for the week is relationships. You’ve been healing the wounds and hurts you’ve endured from your past. The biggest leap is in opening your heart and trying again.

Scorpio: Your word for the week is vitality. Recognizing habits and patterns that impact your wellbeing has been a theme for a while. Keep making improvements with positive effects.

Sagittarius: Your word for the week is audacity. Taking risks and dabbling with bold creative expression have been on the horizon. Charge ahead with enthusiasm and exuberance.

Capricorn: Your word for the

week is foundation. The root of your being has required great attention. Solidity comes from infusing the brick and mortar of your future with life lessons.

Aquarius: Your word for the week is environs. The dialogue you have with your immediate surroundings is dynamic. Recognize all the feedback loops and put effort into cutting the static.

Pisces: Your word for the week is confidence. It’s been a journey in discovering the emotional charge of “stuff”. Keep in your life that which lights you up and shed that which doesn’t.

Weekly Astrology Summary:

The highlight of the week is a meetup that hasn’t occurred for millennia in this part of the cosmos.

Steadfast Saturn and numinous Neptune will finally come together exactly at the very beginning of the zodiac. The two have been toying with each other back and forth between the transcendental end of Pisces and the breath of life in early Aries since the spring of last year, but they never joined exactly as they will on Friday the 20th. Their energies are paradoxical and the lived experience of this meetup both personally and collectively is a bookmark moment in an extraordinary timeline. Be aware of the potential for the measured realization of a dream, the culmination of something that’s been in a state of flux since last year, or even sparks of inspiration coming in waves from a source previously unknown. See the above horoscope for your rising sign for more specific insight and guidance. If you’re unsure what your rising sign is, you can email me at ursaalchemy@gmail. com, learn more in my info/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.