SHORE LOCAL | Mainland | February 26, 2026

Region Digs Out After 'Bomb Cyclone'

Snowed in somewhere between simplicity and streaming

From the editor

Like many across South Jersey, the recent blizzard kept us homebound for several days. Despite the inconvenience of yet another snowstorm, we tried to embrace it. The wind howled, the snow piled high, but inside our home, we felt warm and cozy.

We built a fire and settled in for a movie Sunday night. My daughters were over, and between their streaming subscriptions and ours, the options felt endless. Platforms I had never heard of appeared on the screen, offering virtually any film ever made. After scrolling and debating far longer than necessary, we finally chose one.

The next morning, my mom and I were the first ones awake. Coffee

in hand, we stood at the window, taking in the extraordinary amount of snow. Thankfully, we had not lost power. She turned to me and said she’d like to watch the morning news.

It should have been simple.

Instead, the television prompted us to select a streaming platform, log in, reset a forgotten password, authenticate the account with a phone code, and scan a QR code. I found myself juggling two remotes and my cell phone while my mom gently but repeatedly said, “Channel 6. Just put on Channel 6.”

the aisles, and committing to a selection. The choice was right there in our hands for us to take home.

"It used to be that easy," I replied. There was a time when watching television required little more than pressing a button or even turning a dial. News aired at predictable hours, and movies were scheduled events rather than infinite scrolls. When my children were young, Friday nights meant a trip to Blockbuster, walking

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

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

Publisher Assistant - Julia Train

Copy Editors - James FitzPatrick, Holly Fertsch, Julia Train

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

Web Designer - Holly Martin, Digital Marketing - Liz Katz

Contributors – 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

Then came cable’s on-demand features and, eventually, streaming. Now, entertainment is summoned rather than scheduled. There is undeniable convenience in binging on favorites and watching multiple episodes. Algorithms predict our tastes so a similar storyline is cued up with the next movie or show to watch next. Technology has granted us extraordinary access and convenience.

Yet, somewhere between turning a dial and scanning a QR code, I began to feel overwhelmed. As my mom requested “Channel 6,” I was reminded that progress isn't always intuitive across generations.

Growing up, the rhythm of my evenings was marked by the familiar intro of Action News, signaling it was time to shift to evening routines, dinner and homework.

Innovation never moves backwards though, and change is constant. But, on a snowy morning with devices in hand, I found myself longing for the simplicity of a single button right on the TV.

But, if someone could invent a robot to shovel the driveway at the push of that same button or a QR code, I would happily embrace the future.

Nor’easter of 2026 drops a snow bomb on the Jersey Shore

By Meteorologist Joe Martucci

Just as a generational run of snowcover was starting to go away, a fresh nor’easter piled near historic snow amounts onto our lawns, beaches, cars and streets Feb. 22-23.

While nor’easters at the Jersey Shore are feared most for their tidal flooding, it was the snow that was most impactful this time.

Nearly everywhere at the Jersey Shore had double-digit snow reports. Atlantic City International Airport picked up 16.9 inches of snow over the two-day stretch, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It was the biggest snowstorm this late in the winter season since records began in 1943, and the sixth largest two-day

snowfall. Other Jersey Shore totals, measured in inches, included:

Cape May County

● Ocean City: 16.0

● Lower Twp.: 12.5

● North Wildwood: 8.7

Atlantic County

● Mays Landing: 19.0

● Somers Point: 18.2

● egg Harbor Twp.: 18.0

● Minotola: 17.0

● Buena Vista Twp.: 16.5

● egg Harbor City: 15.3

● Hammonton: 10.7

Ocean County

● Jackson: 25.2

● Lakewood: 24.0

● Toms River: 22.0

● Lakehurst: 21.8

● Manahawkin: 19.0

● Brick: 18.5

● Ship Bottom: 18.0

● Lanoka Harbor: 17.0

● Tuckerton: 17.0

Monmouth County

● Marlboro: 26.5

● Middletown: 25.0

● Freehold Twp.: 25.0

Wind Speeds

● Atlantic City International Airport: 61 mph

● Cape May: 58 mph

● Tuckerton: 56 mph

● Harvey Cedars: 54 mph

● Pleasantville: 53 mph

Looking at statewide totals, this ranks as the third snowiest storm on record for New Jersey, according to Don Colgan, author of “Historic Winter Storm of New Jersey.” It wasn’t just a nor’easter; it was a bomb cyclone, as the National Weather Service confirmed after it rapidly intensified through a process known as bombogenesis.

While sources vary, this storm saw a roughly 40 millibar drop in air

pressure between Sunday morning and Monday morning. You need at least a 24-millibar drop in air pressure within 24 hours to be a “bomb.” This is the hallmark of a strong nor’easter. It achieved that and then some. It even generated its own cold air. It was mild in the days leading up to the nor’easter. High temperatures on Feb. 20-21 – Friday into Saturday – were in the upper 40s to low 50s. even Sunday morning, temperatures were 35 to 40 degrees, and it was raining.

Then, as the storm underwent bombogenesis, there was a large amount of upward motion and air expansion. As the air expands, fewer molecules bump into each other, and you get cooling. In other words, it cooled down and rain turned to snow.

Temperatures hung on above freezing, with snow late Sunday afternoon not sticking much to roads and sidewalks. That happened later than I expected.

But once the sun set, temperatures sank below 32 and snow accumulated rapidly.

Light rain fell along the South Jersey Shore on Sunday night and Monday, but that was not often and the northern part of the shore stayed locked in as snow.

A multi-state ‘mega band’ of snow

The 15-inch or greater totals in most of Atlantic County and points north at the coastal counties were helped by heavy snow that fell for hours Monday morning.

The nor’easter generated two large bands of snow. We had the western one, which extended from western Massachusetts to the Hudson Valley and down the Garden State Parkway to Atlantic County.

If you were in it, you had snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. It was roughly from around 2 a.m. to 10 a.m. So, if you do the math, that adds up.

While the storm underperformed my forecast Sunday afternoon, it made up for it Monday morning.

For what it’s worth, the eastern band was responsible for bringing Rhode Island’s largest snowstorm on record – 37.9 inches of snow fell in Providence, according to WPRI-TV and other outlets.

The snow was very wet

The amount of precipitation that fell during this event ranged from 1.7 to 2.3 inches. We had a lot of snow, but a lot of liquid as well.

In New Jersey on average, 11 inches of snow falls for every inch of liquid. This was lower.

Woodbine likely had 18 inches of snow on 1.97 inches of liquid, according to the Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS). That’s a snowfall ratio of roughly 9:1.

At Atlantic City International Airport, 16.9 inches of snow occurred with 1.97 inches of liquid. That’s a snow ratio of 8.6:1.

You noticed it. The snow was very hard to shovel or snowblow, and not just because of the amount. The snow stuck to my narrow windshield wipers. If the snow was fluffy, that wouldn’t happen.

Drought concerns ease with this storm

The 1.7 to 2.3 inches of liquid brought February’s precipitation back to average. That was much needed and reduced the risk of worsening drought going into wildfire season. New updates from the united States Drought Monitor come out on Thursdays.

Additional precipitation on Feb. 25 and Feb. 26 helped things further, too.

Probably the windiest snowstorm in decades

Atlantic City International Airport reported a 61 mph wind gusts at 3:13 a.m. Monday, Feb. 23. The National Weather Service said no major snowstorm or blizzard since 1978 had a gust as high as this one.

The most Sunday snow (almost)

It may have taken divine intervention, but with 6.9 inches of snow at ACY Airport on Feb. 22, this winter is now tied with 2005-2006 for the winter with most Sunday snow on record.

With a brutally cold shot of air expected to begin in March, it’s still possible that 2025-2026 could claim the top spot for itself. Who said Sunday was a day of rest?

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.

By Julia Train

Ventnor’s boardwalk undergoes nearly $11M reconstruction

Ventnor’s boardwalk — a historic 1.7-mile extension of the Atlantic City Boardwalk — is undergoing a $10.9 million reconstruction project.

Construction began in November 2025 and covers over 30 streets, spanning from Jackson Avenue in Atlantic City to Cambridge Avenue in Ventnor, according to an October 2025 statement from the city.

Designed to strengthen and modernize the city’s most iconic public asset, the work includes “complete demolition and reconstruction of the boardwalk structure, the pavilions, street end ramps, railing and lighting between Jackson Avenue and Cambridge Avenue.”

The project is being completed in two phases, contracted out to Fred Schiavone Construction for about $8.4 million and Lumbermen Associates, Inc. for about $2.5 million, ed Stinson, the Ventnor City engineer, said.

Phase 1, from Suffolk Avenue to Cambridge Avenue, began in fall 2025

and is expected to continue through spring 2026. Phase 2, from Suffolk Avenue to Jackson Avenue, is scheduled for fall 2026 through the winter.

For safety, the boardwalk was closed from Surrey Avenue to the Fishing Pier access ramp at the beginning of November 2025, and will remain closed until completion of the first phase, anticipated by May. City officials say the first phase is expected to be completed before Memorial Day weekend.

The pier itself remains accessible.

Crews demolished the boardwalk, moving from Suffolk Avenue to Cambridge.

Workers also had to dig out large amounts of sand that had built up beneath the boardwalk over the years. The sand was cleaned and piled onto the beach, where it will later be spread out above the high-tide line.

Once the area was cleared, the boardwalk was rebuilt, with the construction moving in phases, starting at Cambridge and moving toward Suffolk.

First, a crew drove new support pilings into the ground. Next came the framing team, followed by the decking crew, which began laying the new walking surface on Feb. 2.

Crews were installing as many as 20 to 24 pilings a day, but after snow and ice, that number dropped to about nine per day.

“The biggest challenge is coordinating all those phases of the project,” Stinson said. “The demolition took several months, and then driving piles into the sand for the new boardwalk has been taking the most time.”

After Labor Day, crews will go back to work for the second phase, reconstructing the portion of the

boardwalk that runs from Suffolk to Jackson Avenue.

The new structure is being built with sturdy beams across the pilings to form the base, then topped with Cumaru, a dense tropical hardwood.

One visible change will be the elimination of the boardwalk’s distinctive angled herringbone decking pattern in favor of straight boards, according to Downbeach Buzz.

Additional updates include modifications to the lighting system, with shorter light poles installed more frequently along the walkway, as well as improvements to make access ramps more accessible. The current benches — including those bearing memorial plaques — will be reinstalled once construction is complete.

Funding for the project was secured through the New Jersey Boardwalk Preservation Fund, part of a broader $100 million initiative supported by federal American Rescue Plan dollars.

The city is one of 18 municipalities to receive funding through the Boardwalk Preservation Fund, which was administered through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ Office of Disaster Recovery and Mitigation.

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.

From juggling sports to meltdowns: Local parents, experts talk about navigating the toughest hours after school

Family Tides

By Madison Russ

It can be jarring when parents pick up their child from school or daycare, expecting hugs and a happy reunion, only to be met with tears.

But this behavior, often called “after-school restraint collapse,” is pretty common.

“Your child has spent six to eight hours following rules and social norms, sitting still, managing noises and sensory input, navigating peer relationships, controlling urges/impulses, and trying to interpret all of the demands and what is expected of them. By the end of the day, their nervous system is exhausted,” said Jasmine Ross, a local mom, occupational therapist and founder of Busy Hands Dough Co., in a written response.

“Their ‘sensory cups’ are filled to

the max or are spilling over. They need a reset; they need an emotional release. So much executive functioning is happening all day that they just need to power it down,” Ross explained. “When they get home or in the car to their safe person, their body releases the stress. Meltdowns after school are not defiance — they are nervous system fatigue.”

For some children, that looks like tears. For others, irritability or shutting down.

Leslie Jespersen, an Atlantic City-based mom, founder and entrepreneur, said her two children regulated differently growing up. Her eldest would shut down and need sleep when overstimulated, while her youngest might throw a tantrum or need to leave the environment.

“They were definitely very different, even still to this day,” she said.

Though the big emotions can feel jarring, Ross said they often signal safety.

After spending 6-8 hours following rules and social norms, sitting still, managing sensory input and peer relationships, a child's nervous system is exhausted.

“They know that they can trust you with their emotions. What you do as the parent during this meltdown will impact how they learn to regulate as they grow and how well the rest of

the night may progress,” Ross said. Still, for exhausted parents juggling pickups, dinner and sports, the outbursts can be draining. Jespersen, whose children are now in eighth grade and college, remembers struggling.

"I was working nine-to-five, and I was so burnt out; I really struggled with having patience when I got home,” she said.

Ocean City-based mom Abbey Sangmeister, a therapist, subconscious change expert and parent coach who founded the Nature and Nurture Lab, a workshop series where kids and caregivers explore feelings and build communication and coping skills, said the time after work and school can become a second grind.

Busy weekends and overscheduling — from sports to birthday parties — can also contribute.

“I don’t think it’s the parents’ fault. I think it’s just where we are in the world. Part of what I want to teach people is that we don’t always have to be go, go, go, and it’s just become part of our nature until we burn out,” Sangmeister said, noting she’s seen clients as young as

7 experiencing burnout.

She encourages families to be intentional about decompressing and to include children in conversations about plans.

“Bring your kids into it. They also know what they need, and they can give really good feedback, even if they’re little,” Sangmeister said.

Parents should also watch for patterns, especially if a child resists a particular activity.

“A great way to talk to kids is not to sit down and stare at them. Play a game, color, get out a coloring book, and just start coloring and listening and see what kind of comes up or going for a walk with them or tossing the ball in the backyard,” she said, adding parents should keep their phones and smart watches off during this time. “That’s a great routine to have—and then be like, ‘Hey, what’s going on? I’ve noticed you haven’t wanted to go to swim.’ And see what kind of comes up. Maybe swimming is not their thing, and they haven’t had the chance to tell you. Maybe something else is going

on. Maybe it’s just the time change; it could be so many different variables.”

Jespersen said that with her kids’ different personalities, preparing them and talking them through upcoming plans helped.

Sometimes, reassessing schedules can make a difference, too.

Jespersen's experiences led her to start her own business. When she works from home now, she finishes by 2 p.m. and saves additional work for after her kids are asleep.

“I recognize not everybody has this flexibility and freedom,” Jespersen said. “But I found I would get so stressed out when I was trying to multitask instead of just actually being present. Because a lot of times these kids are tired and overstimulated, and they just need our undivided attention.”

Ross recommends focusing on connection first instead of peppering kids with questions, like saying, “I’m so happy to see you,” or “Let’s sit together for a minute.”

She also stressed meeting basic needs — food, movement, quiet or even a bathroom break — and offering regulating activities such as squeezing Play-Doh, jumping, wall pushes, heavy work such as carrying groceries or pushing a laundry basket, a warm bath or cozy corner time. A healthy and crunchy snack can also offer sensory input.

Ross, who also offers a weekly sensory class at The Kindly Co in Linwood and an after-school Busy Hands

Sensory enrichment Club, added that screen time isn’t a great regulating tool.

“It suppresses the emotions further, and that is why there’s an even bigger meltdown when it’s time to shut it off,” Ross noted.

Whether it’s a toddler insisting on carrying their own things or a grumpy child dragging their feet to practice, grace goes a long way. After all, even adults can go through this, too, after a long day.

Looking back, Jespersen said she wished she had cut herself a little more slack.

“Yes, it is good for kids to have activities. If they don't want to do them, and everyone is exhausted and cranky, is it worth it?” she said. “I really wish I didn't compare myself so much to what I saw other people doing online.”

Madison Russ is an awardwinning journalist, copy editor and adjunct professor of communication based in Atlantic County. An Ocean City native, Madison is passionate about telling stories that matter to locals, often spotlighting nonprofits and exploring the area's vibrant arts scene.

Events and Happenings

Multi-day Events

‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’

▶Feb. 27-March 1

Gateway Playhouse, 738 Bay Ave.,

Somers Point

Rediscover the 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’s Peanuts characters to life in a family-friendly musical packed with laughter and heart. Performances are 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27; 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28; and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 1. Tickets are $25 and are available for purchase at www. gatewaybythebay.org.

Thursday, February 26

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.

The Captain’s Table

▶6-8 p.m.

Atlantic City Convention Center, 73 Miss America Way, Atlantic City

Join the Community FoodBank of New Jersey for an evening of food, fun and fellowship at their 11th Annual Captain’s Table. The event will include delectable dishes and desserts from a variety of local restaurants, along with a selection of tastings from regional breweries, wineries and distilleries. Proceeds benefit ‘Let us eat, Please’ to support children and families in our community. For more information, visit www.cfbnj.org/ events/captainstable.

Friday, February 27

LauraB

▶7:30 p.m.

Stockton Campus Center Theatre, 101 Vera King Farris Drive, Galloway Hailing from Spain, singer-songwriter LauraB presents a modern, intimate take on Andalusian folk music performed by an all-female quartet. As a composer, guitarist and vocalist, LauraB leads this deeply personal project with feeling and sincerity.

Positive & Reward based training for Dogs of all ages

Hosted by the Stockton Performing Arts Center. For more information, visit www.stockton.edu/pac.

Saturday, February 28

Yoga for Kids

▶11 a.m.

egg Harbor Township Library, 1 Swift Drive

Join the Atlantic County Library in egg Harbor Township for children’s yoga, where attendees will do basic animal poses while learning yoga foundations. Remember to bring your yoga mat. Open to children ages 5-12. Registration is required. For more information, call 609-927-8664.

Chess Club

▶12-4 p.m.

Ventnor Library, 6500 Atlantic Ave.

Do you love chess? Have you always wanted to learn? The Chess Club at Atlantic County Library in Ventnor is open to all ages and levels of experience. Feel free to bring your own chessboard, or borrow one from the Chess Club. For more information, call 609-823-4614.

4-H Meet the Breeds

▶1-3 p.m.

Cape May County 4-H, 355 Court House South Dennis Road, Cape May Court House

Join the Cape May County 4-H to meet rabbits and small animals, learn about animal ownership and care requirements and find out how to pick the best pet for your family through hands-on activities and games. The event is open to all ages. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. To register, call 609-774-0825, ext. 3617 or email donna.griebau@rutgers.edu.

Sunday,

March 1

Atlantic City Punk Rock Flea Market

▶12-6 p.m.

Anchor Rock Club, 247 S. New York Ave., Atlantic City

Get ready for the Atlantic City Punk Rock Flea Market. Shop for new and gently used records, oddities, vintage clothing, antiques, upcycled goods, original art, crafts and more. Snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase. Admission is $10 per person.

Bargaintown Bowling for Heroes

▶1 p.m.

King Pin Lanes, 6622 Black Horse Pike, egg Harbor Township

Rescheduled from Feb. 22. Roll a few frames to support our local heroes from the Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company. 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 bit.ly/ bargaintown.

Michael Pedicin Quintet: Improvisation, Creativity and Consciousness

▶2 p.m.

Ocean City Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.

enjoy a Sunday afternoon of jazz at the Ocean City Library Lecture Hall throughout the month of March. This four-part series demonstrates the parallel relationships and synergy when musicians improvise, create and align their collective consciousness. The concert will be led by Michael Pedicin on saxophone with Bob Ferguson on the trumpet, Jim Holton on piano, Andy Lalasis on bass and Tom Angello on the drums.

Holy Spirit Pre-Prom Fashion Show

▶5 p.m.

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

Rescheduled from Feb. 22. 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 their 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, March 2

Blooming Season Paint Night

▶4:30-6:30 p.m.

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

Shake away the cold of winter and think spring with a relaxing and creative evening with friends, neighbors and the community. Whether you’re an experienced artist or picking up a brush for the first time, this event is designed for all skill levels. To register, call Inland FSC at 609-569-0376.

Tuesday, March 3

Furry Buddies

▶6:30 p.m.

Mays Landing Library, 40 Farragut Ave.

Read a story to therapy dogs Fritz and Frieda who love sharing stories with children. This event is open to all ages. For more information, call 609-625-2776.

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Opening Day March 28th March

Wednesday, March 4

From Here to There: Books Everywhere

▶12-3 p.m.

New Day Family Success Center, 18 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Pleasantville

Join New Day FSC for a Dr. Seuss-themed book fair. Browse, share and discover books for all ages during this fun book drive.

Egg Harbor Township Health and Fitness Fair

▶5-8 p.m.

egg Harbor Township Community Center, 5045 english Creek Ave.

Join eHT Recreation for their 4th Annual Health and Fitness Fair as they bring the community together with resources you need to become and stay healthy. There will be a variety of professionals on hand, along with a showcase of fitness classes, local businesses and nonprofits. For more information, call 609-272-8120 or email recreation@ehtrec.com.

Thursday, March 5

Women Empowering Single Moms

▶6-7:30 p.m.

New Day Family Success Center, 18 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Pleasantville

Women play an integral role in our society, contributing significantly to progress and innovation. This monthly meeting, held at New Day FSC, provides a platform to explore and celebrate the myriad of ways women impact our lives. To register, call 609-652-0230.

Saturday, March 7

Somers Paddy Crawl

▶12-5 p.m.

Gather your friends for the 5th Annual Somers Paddy Crawl. The event will take place at multiple locations, including Anchorage Tavern,

Caroline’s by the Bay, Charlie’s, DiOrio’s, Gregory’s, Josie Kelly’s, Somers Point Brewing Company and Somers Point VFW Post 2189. Tickets can be purchased online at https://buytickets.at/somerspaddycrawl.

Atlantic City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade ▶1 p.m.

Atlantic City Boardwalk from Ocean Casino to Albany Ave.

The historic Atlantic City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is just one week away. Break out your green and head to the Boardwalk for a fun-filled day of floats, jigs, string and piper bands, Irish dancers, local businesses, organizations and a full day of excitement. Visit www.acstpatricksdayparade. com for more information.

Monday, March 9

Musical Connections

▶10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Katz JCC, 501 North Jerome Ave., Margate

Join JFS Village as they share familiar tunes from various genres, including Broadway, classical, contemporary and jazz and instruments with friends and neighbors. Whether you are a caregiver, cared for, or a community member, JFS looks forward to welcoming you. RSVP by March 2 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or tserota@jfsvillage. org.

Thursday, March 12

Absecon Galloway Rotary Club Meetings ▶8 a.m.

Phoenix Diner, 200 W. Absecon Blvd.

The Absecon Galloway Rotary Club invites the public to be their guest at their upcoming meeting. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at Phoenix Diner, and the fourth Thursday

of every month at Gourmet Italian Restaurant at 5:30 p.m. Learn more about Rotary, how they serve our local community and meet local community members. For club information, go to www.facebook.com/ AbseconGallowayRotary, or email Rose McCarthy, Club President, at bluerose46@aol.com.

Cape-Atlantic Marine Corps League Meeting

▶7 p.m.

Marine Corps Bunker, 731 east Greek Creek Road, Galloway

The Cape Atlantic uSMC League will host its monthly meeting in Galloway. For more information, call 609-517-6466 or email camcl194@ gmail.com.

Night of Pure Irish

▶7 p.m.

egg Harbor Township Community Center, 5045 english Creek Ave.

Mark your calendars as the Great egg Harbour Township Historical Society hosts an evening of Irish music featuring the emerald Isle Academy Dancers, and Sandpipers Pipes and Drums of Atlantic County. Admission donation is $2 per person. G eHTHS members are free. Refreshments will be available.

Announcements

Project Prom 2026

▶Now-Sunday, 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 Sunday, March 1. For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, visit www.projectpromac.com.

Health and Wellness

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 discuss, enhance and deepen their practice of gratitude, which is shown to reduce stress, improve mood and increase optimism. For more information, call 609-6523800 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 a weekly meditation, follow-up discussion and light stretch on Mondays. Newcomers and people with all levels of experience in

The Atlantic City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is a locally beloved tradition. Photo credit: Visit Atlantic City Facebook

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 partic-

3120 Fire Road, Suite 100, Egg Harbor Twp, NJ

Phone 609.317.0801 kap@djd.law djdlawyers.com

ipate. 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, peer-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. Please visit www.namiacm.org for further information.

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

From Cub Scout to Eagle Scout, Joseph Szarzynski earns scouting’s highest honor

By Delaney Crawford

Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America) has been around since 1910. Over one million youth members are currently involved, and the organization works to prepare the youth for life by building character, citizenship, and personal fitness through outdoor adventures like camping, hiking, and canoeing. From as young as kindergarten to 18 years old, the Scouts instill in members the art of giving back to the community, appreciation for service, and preach kindness and respect as basic pillars in life. For decades, young boys have grown through the ranks from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts, all hoping to reach the highest level of eagle Scout. One such local member who

recently reached that honor is Joseph Szarzynski from Mays Landing.

Szarzynski, 18, has known from the first minute he became a Cub Scout in first grade that he wanted to, and would, reach the eagle Scout level. Now that he’s reached it and has turned 18, his time with Scouting America has come to an end, but there are many accomplishments still ahead for this young man.

“It’s kind of hard to believe that it’s over now. I’m moving on to the next thing, whatever that may be, but it’s just wild to think that it’s over after all this time,” Szarzynski said. “I feel like I’d be a different person without it. It made my morals and the way I am, being kind, making sure you’re always helping others. As cheesy as it sounds on paper, that really does matter.”

Szarzynski is currently a senior at Oakcrest High School and is also taking classes at Atlantic Cape Com -

munity College to get ahead and earn his associate degree before heading to a university in the fall.

He’ll be attending Rowan niversity, where he hopes to complete his pre-med requirements before going on to medical school.

Szarzynski shared that medical school has always felt like a calling and something he knew he wanted to make happen.

His large aspirations can be credited to growing up in the Boy Scouts and having those core values instilled in him.

Szarzynski passed his board of review for the rank of eagle Scout on Oct. 7, 2025, the highest honored achievement in Scouting. To achieve this, he had to complete his eagle project, which took place in Tony Canale Park in egg Harbor Township as part of the eHT Recreation Center. The planning, organizing, setup, building, and overall execution of the project were all handled by Szarzynski. His goal was to help the community by building three wooden benches to go around the well-used gaga pit in the park.

“I worked there during the summer for a few years and, of course, I was thinking about my eagle project. I bounced ideas back and forth with the head of parks and recreation, and once we had the idea, I met with him and got it approved. There’s so much to it with writing the plans, answering questions, planning it out, it’s crazy

how many steps and processes there are. For just this one project, it takes so much time and effort,” Szarzynski said.

Szarzynski shared that the building portion of the project was his favorite part and that he realized the need for the benches when he was working there and had nowhere to sit down or put his belongings.

“When I worked, I always thought, ‘There’s really nowhere to sit down,’ so I’m happy that people will be able to utilize it. When I see the benches now and people using them, I definitely think that’s nice, and I’m glad I was able to do it for the community.”

As Szarzynski moves on to the next chapter of his life

and begins his dream of becoming a doctor, he isn’t leaving Scouting America behind. He hopes to return as an assistant leader of Troop 94 in eHT, where he completed his own Scouting career.

“I just need to give back to the organization that gave to me,” Szarzynski said. “It’s all about giving back. That's the entire Scout way, always giving back to the community. I wish more people were involved in Boy Scouts and knew about it all.”

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

Building trust beyond the badge: The impact of the Police Athletic League

By Alanna Stoloff

The Police Athletic League is built on the belief that strong relationships and positive mentorship can change lives, and Captain Hector Tavarez embodies that mission through his dedication to local youth. A retired captain from the egg Harbor Township Police Department, Tavarez believes that creating positive connections at an early age leads to lifelong success.

For 36 years, he has worked with PAL to provide children and teens with a safe space to grow, learn, and develop confidence while building trust between young people and law enforcement.

Through sports, STeM programs

and community events, PAL offers structure and guidance at a time when it matters most. Yet, Tavarez knows the impact goes far beyond the playing field. It is about instilling respect, responsibility and teamwork that shape young lives for years to come.

Here’s an excerpt from our Coastal Conversation:

AS: What is the mission of PAL and why is it so important for youth?

HT: The main idea behind it is to basically create a connection between law enforcement, the community and the children in our community to build a positive relationship.

AS: How do PAL programs help build trust between kids and law enforcement?

HT: The idea is to bring local police officers in direct contact with kids in the community. Throughout the year, our PAL has numerous events, prob -

ably the biggest one being our Shop with a Hero, which brings officers from many municipalities in Atlantic County into contact with kids in the community.

AS: What types of activities does PAL offer?

HT: Our programs range from athletic sports like football, soccer, lacrosse and volleyball played on our indoor turf field. We also offer STeM activities for kids from first grade through high school. That includes hands-on workshops and our flagship robotics team, the FIRST Tech Challenge team. They build custom robots and compete on a 12-foot by 12-foot field. The team includes students from five local high schools. They are five-time New Jersey state champions and ranked 25th in the world out of more than 7,000 teams.

AS: What changes have you seen in children who participate?

HT: In the last 36 years, a lot has changed. Kids seem less interested in getting out of their homes and being actively involved. Many are stuck on phones, social media, and video games. It’s almost a struggle to get kids to come out to play now.

AS: Why is mentorship such a key part of your work?

HT: We try to get quality mentors who share their values and knowledge with the kids. Having mentors in your life as a young person is critically important to developing emotionally and socially. Having mentors involved becomes a critical element of what we do.

AS: What challenges does PAL face today?

HT: Right now, the biggest challenge is financial. We own and operate our facilities, and as a nonprofit it’s always challenging to raise enough money to run our programs. Rising utility and insurance bills have posed tremendous challenges.

AS: Do you do fundraisers?

HT: Yes, we hold fundraisers throughout the year. Our annual Jail or Bail fundraiser helps raise scholarships to offset rising registration fees.

AS: Does PAL help build trust between kids and officers?

HT: That’s the intended purpose to create a bond between officers and youth and build trust in the community. There’s nothing better than a young police officer getting to know kids early. As those kids grow into adults, they become strong allies be -

cause they actually know each other.

AS: How can families or the community get involved?

HT: We try to offer interesting programs, whether STeM or traditional sports, to earn the trust of kids and their parents. The best way to get involved is to visit ehtpal.org to register, volunteer, mentor or donate. We’re also open to new creative ideas if we can facilitate them.

AS: Is PAL part of a national organization?

HT: We do not participate in the national organization. Our programs far outpace it, so there’s no benefit for us to participate.

AS: Any success stories?

HT: We’ve had plenty. I once

chased a troubled kid on a motorcycle when I was a police officer. Today he’s successful and serves on our board. We’ve had kids go on to top universities for engineering. It really makes a difference in the lives of our kids.

AS: What is your vision for PAL’s future?

HT: We’ve accomplished a lot. The one goal that remains is to make everything free, so that all of our programs are at no charge. With hundreds of volunteers supporting programs throughout the year and recent state grant funding helping sustain operations, PAL continues working toward that goal, empowering youth, strengthening families, and building a more connected community.

Thank you, Mr. Tavarez, for being this week’s guest in Coastal Conversations and for sharing the powerful impact of the Police Athletic League. Your dedication shows how mentorship and community connection can truly change young lives.

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.

Pass

it Down:

Family Favorites with a Side of Memories

New family members means new dishes to embrace and enjoy

By Lisa Zaslow Segelman

In this column I usually feature the recipes and recollections that have been handed down by our mothers and grandmothers, great-aunts and uncles. These are the dishes that anchor us – traditions and mainstays that mark the rhythm of our culinary year and grace the tables of our most cherished holidays.

But family tables evolve. As new people enter our lives – through the marriages and relationships of our children, friendships with neighbors from other cultures, or our own travels – what my son calls “the same old” is often refreshed by something new.

Over time, these dishes weave

themselves into our stories, becoming traditions and adding fresh meaning and memories to the table.

New faces, new flavors

At this year’s break-the-fast for Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, the menu was as predictable as ever: gentle dairy staples after 24 hours without food – lox, whitefish, tuna salad, egg salad and noodle kugel.

Then a ripple went through the buffet line: “Kristen made pierogies.”

Kristen, my daughter’s sister-inlaw, comes from a Polish family on her dad’s side. Although pierogies aren’t traditional fare for a break-the-fast meal, they were homemade, tender, hard to resist and clearly shaped by a steady hand “how Grandma used to make them.”

“My dad’s family is 100% Polish and for holidays, we would make a bunch of different Polish foods, like nalesniki, borscht and pierogi,” Kristen Adamkowski Hechler told me at the holiday meal. “This recipe

is my (Polish for grandmom), and I used it to learn how to make this family favorite dish,” added Kristen. “I’ve modified the recipe over the years, but I still reference the piece of stained paper from my Babci’s (grandmom’s) cookbook to get the dough just right.”

Pierogies, piroshki,

kreplach:

Same region of the world, different divisions.

When my niece told me about her new ukrainian-Jewish boyfriend Yan – who emigrated via Israel to the u.S. in the 1990s – she mentioned right away that he loves anything potato. His family favorite is piroshki, a cousin of pierogi, made from his Babushka’s recipe and now cooked with his mom.

This got me thinking. Why did his Jewish family who stayed in ukraine until 1993 make them, and our Jewish-American families, including mine who arrived in the early 1900s, did not? How could this be with so many of our grandparents and great-grandparents emigrating from Russia, Poland and the like?

Simple dish, not a simple history

When many Ashkenazi Jews were living in shtetls (little towns) in eastern europe in the early 1900s foods weren’t labeled like they are today. Pierogies were usually fried in oil and kosher laws required that all the ingredients be kosher.

To guard against questionable oil, they made their own version of pierogies – “kreplach” – that were meatfilled dough pouches boiled and mostly eaten in chicken soup. They’re more time-consuming and challenging than making matzo balls – thus matzo balls

became one of those ethnic dishes that made it into the mainstream of American culture.

Yan and his family, however, who stayed in ukraine until the early 1990s, became more a part of Russian society than their ancestors in the shtetls of eastern europe, thus piroshki became a part of their everyday fare.

The difference in the recipes below is the filling and the method: sour cream in the dough for the pierogies and farmer’s cheese for the piroshki.

For the filling, the pierogies have the caramelized onions on top. For the piroshki they’re part of the filling. The method varies also; the pierogies are boiled and finished in the pan, the piroshki are just fried.

Pierogies are often served with sour cream or applesauce; piroshki are a plain or often with a mustard dipping sauce.

Piroshki and pierogies are enjoyed year-round, but pierogies take center stage at easter. For the holiday as a special treat they’re traditionally filled with sweetened farmer cheese or ricotta, flavored with vanilla, lemon zest, or egg yolk – rich, creamy and perfect for the dairy-focused spring celebration.

Kristin’s family: Babci’s pierogies

Serves 12-16

Dough

● 2 c sifted flour

● 1 egg

● ½ tsp salt

● ¼ c unsalted butter

● ⅛ c sour cream

Mix all ingredients together and knead in a bowl. Mold it into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Cut the ball in quarters. using flour to prevent stickiness, roll out the dough into ⅛ inch thickness. use a 3-4 inch diameter round cookie cutter to make circles.

Potato filling

● 3 lbs russet potatoes

● 4 tbsp unsalted butter

● ¼ c warm milk

● (optional) ½ c cheddar cheese

● (optional) ¼ c sour cream

● Salt and pepper to taste

Peel and cut potatoes, boil for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain water from the pot and mash the potatoes in the pot. Add all other ingredients and stir until everything is combined.

↘Continued on 22

Take small spoonfuls of filling into each of the pre-cut circles of dough, fold the dough over and tap the edges of the dough lightly with water before sealing. Press to seal either with fingers or a fork, being careful not to puncture the filling pocket. If there are any openings in the dough outside of the filling pocket, the filling will explode when you boil.

Boil and finish

● 2 large onions, diced

● 2-3 tbsp butter

Fill a large pot about halfway with water and a large pinch of salt. Heat water to boil. While waiting for the water to boil, sauté the diced onions in butter until brown or caramelized. Remove onions from the pan when completed, leaving the butter.

Drop several filled pierogies into the boiling water. Let boil for 60-90 seconds. Remove them from the boiling water with a skimmer and drop straight into the buttered pan to brown both sides.

To serve, scoop the caramelized onions onto the pierogies and serve with sour cream and/or applesauce.

Holiday filling:

Ingredients (for about 12-16 pierogies)

● 8 oz (225 g) farmer cheese or

ricotta

● 2-3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

● 1 tsp vanilla extract

● 1 egg yolk

● Optional: 1-2 tsp lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon

● Optional: raisins, chopped finely

Yan’s family: Potato piroshki

Makes 12-16

Filling

● 3 lb russet potatoes

● 4 tbsp oil for frying

● 4 onions, chopped fine

● Salt and pepper to taste

Dough

● 2 cups farmer’s cheese

● 3 eggs

● 2½ cups all-purpose flour

● Salt, to taste

● ½ tsp baking soda

● 2 tsp vinegar

Method

1. Make the filling. Boil the potatoes until very soft. While the potatoes cook, finely chop the onions and fry them in oil until deeply golden and soft. Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth. Add the fried onions (including some of the oil), salt and black pepper. Mix well and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the dough. In a large bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, eggs

and a pinch of salt. In a separate small cup, add the baking soda and pour a little vinegar over it so it fizzes. Add the flour to the dough mixture, then immediately add the baking soda–vinegar mixture into the flour. Mix everything together until you get a soft, smooth dough. Form the dough into a round ball. It should be soft but not too sticky – add a little flour if needed.

3. Shape the piroshki. Lightly flour your work surface. Take a piece of dough, flatten it into a small circle in your hand. Place a spoonful of potato filling in the center. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges closed well, shaping into an oval or half-moon.

4. Fry. Heat plenty of oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the piroshki in batches, turning them until golden brown on all sides. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Lisa is an advertising copywriter (think ‘Madmen’ without the men), journalist and columnist. Claim to fame: Lou’s waitress for four teenage summers. For column comments, story ideas, or to get on her “quote” list for future columns: redshoeslzs@ gmail.com

Ventura’s wins first-ever pizza tasting fundraiser for People in Crisis Inc.

By Delaney Crawford

The smell of fresh pizza filled Happy eatery on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 21. More than 40 community members gathered for a good cause and a slice of some of the area’s best pies at 715 e eighth St. in Ocean City.

Held from 2 to 5 p.m., the first-ever pizza tasting contest invited guests to vote for the Best Pizza in Cape May and Atlantic counties while raising much needed funds for two local residents, John Scalella and ed Neel.

Six local pizza spots generously donated their time and food for the event, including Ventura’s Offshore Café, Mamma Mia’s Ristorante, Mario’s Pizza & Restaurant, Little Italy, Mitchelli’s Pizza and Mike & Anna’s. each restaurant brought three pies, giving attendees plenty to sample. At the end of the afternoon, Ventura’s Offshore Café took home the trophy, but everyone walked away a winner, enjoying great pizza while getting to support our neighbors in need.

The event was organized by the board of People in Crisis Inc. (PICI), a

I

local nonprofit founded in 2003 with a mission to help individuals who “fall between the cracks” of traditional support systems, especially when it comes to healthcare and financial crises.

This fundraiser hosted by PICI was held to help two local men, John Scalella and ed Neel.

John’s face was assaulted multiple times, severely affecting his jawbone. As a result, everyday functions like eating and speaking have become incredibly difficult. He requires specialized dental implants to restore his basic quality of life, but insurance will not cover the procedures. The cost is overwhelming, and without assistance, he remains in a painful and uncertain situation. For John, this fundraiser represents more than financial support; it represents dignity. ed Neel, a Vietnam veteran, is facing a different kind of battle. He

needs a fence around his home to feel safe, as ongoing fear and stress have severely impacted his heart and pulmonary health. Something as simple as security and peace of mind could dramatically improve his daily life. For ed, feeling safe at home is not a luxury; it is essential to his well-being.

While their needs differ, both men are facing battles they cannot fight alone.

The organization’s founder, Lana Samuels, who serves as president, shared that PICI was originally created upon a doctor's suggestion. “She encouraged me to form a 501(c)(3) that could be used to help those in need.”

Today, the organization helps local individuals who are each either navigating the complexities of the healthcare system or experiencing severe living crises.

She explained that the people PICI

serves are overwhelmed by medical systems, financial strain or both. The organization conducts research, connects them to resources and provides financial assistance whenever possible.

In addition to the pizza tasting, the afternoon featured free prizes for kids, refreshments, Johnson’s Popcorn, movie watching, card and board games, and a silent auction that helped raise additional funds.

PICI is also currently selling “Ticket for Life” booklets for John and ed, offering discounts to multiple local businesses for a full year. Tickets are priced at one for $20, three for $50 or 10 for $100.

The turnout for the fundraiser exceeded expectations.

“It was absolutely wonderful. I’m glad everyone had fun and enjoyed the food. All of us board members are so grateful for the businesses that donated the pizza and supported the event,” said Samuels.

Between the laughter, shared stories and slices of pizza, the afternoon proved something simple but powerful.

Snow impacts local sports schedule

By David Weinberg

If I had listened to my gut, the only salt I would have been dealing with earlier this week would have been around the rim of my tequila-filled glass.

Last Sunday was National Margarita Day. I was this close to celebrating my favorite holiday under a poolside cabana in Florida.

Instead, my wife and I were hunkered down at home, hoping the electricity and internet would stay up long enough for her to watch the closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics while I kept tabs on my phone of the Lower Cape May Regional High School wrestling team’s bid to win its first-ever state championship.

A day earlier, as what was billed as an epic snowstorm barreled toward Atlantic and Cape May Counties, I thought of getting out of dodge in

a Dodge – actually a Hyundai Kona. Flights were sold out, so I contemplated driving south until we saw palm trees and people wearing flip flops instead of snow boots.

Instead, we decided to stay, foolishly thinking the infamous Cape May Bubble that has so often protected our slice of the e ast Coast would once again ward off the blizzard.

Not this time.

Snow and wind smacked us around like local heavyweight boxers Rodney Brooks and Bruce Seldon Jr.

We did manage to watch the u.S. men’s Olympic hockey team win gold and the Phillies beat the Pirates in a spring training game in between power outages.

Lower Cape May’s wrestling squad gave a valiant effort before losing 3533 to Rumson-Fair Haven in the state Group II championship match.

Then I got to wake up Monday to waist-high snow drifts and swirling winds.

So much for giving up cursing for Lent.

Hopefully the snow will be cleared enough for our area to enjoy the plethora of events that are coming

SATURDAY MAY 9, 2026

OAKCREST HIGH SCHOOL 10am – 2pm

to town over the next few weeks.

The action actually starts this week on the high school level with the state boys and girls basketball tournaments while the march to the state tournament at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall starts with local wrestlers competing in the district tournaments.

In boys basketball, Atlantic City (South Jersey Group IV), Holy Spirits (Non-Public B) Lower Cape May (Group II), Middle Township (Group II), Ocean City (Group III) are all seeded fourth or higher in their respective groups and could challenge for sectional titles.

Atlantic City just won the Cape-Atlantic League tournament and Ocean City is the defending South Jersey Group III champion.

South Jersey.

On the college level, the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference tournament, fresh off signing a five-year extension that will keep the tournament in town until at least 2031, returns on March 5-10.

Merrimack (20-9, 16-2) will enter the men’s tournament as the top seed after winning the regular-season title. Fairfield (24-4, 18-1) and Quinnipiac (22-5, 17-1) are vying for the top seed in the women’s tournament.

Stockton university’s men’s team opened the New Jersey Athletic Conference (16-10) with a win over Kean university in the first round. The third-seeded Ospreys are scheduled to play at second-seeded The College of New Jersey on Wednesday in the semifinals.

Stockton’s women’s team (1610) knocked off Montclair State in the first round. The fourth-seeded Osprey will next play at top-seeded William Paterson on Tuesday.

I’m planning to take in as many events as possible in the next two weeks, this week’s Atlantic City Boat Show at the Atlantic City Convention Center.

But first I have to dig out my driveway. What the … heck.

I should be in Margaritaville.

On the girls side, e gg Harbor Township (Group IV), Hammonton (Group III), Holy Spirit (Non-Public B), Mainland Regional (Group III), Middle Township (Group II), Wildwood (Group I) and Wildwood Catholic (Non-Public B) are all among the top seeds in their brackets.

The dream for every local boys and girls wrestler is to qualify for the state individual championships at Boardwalk Hall, which this year will be held March 12-14. Their quest begins this weekend with district tournaments at various locales throughout

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.

CASA to hold Community Awareness Luncheon at Linwood Country Club

By Tammy Thornton

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Atlantic, Cape May, and Camden Counties plans to hold its Community Awareness Luncheon on Wednesday, March 4, at the Linwood Country Club. You may be asking yourself, “What exactly is a CASA?” CASAs are trained volunteers from the community who stand alongside children in the foster system to give them a voice and make sure that their best interests are served.

Children in the foster care system have often been removed from their original homes due to a situation of abuse or neglect. Once a child enters the foster care system, many decisions must be made regarding all the different facets of the child’s life.

These decisions can be crucial to the development of the child and will affect them throughout their lives. CASA provides a trained, caring adult who makes the needs of the child a priority and has the knowledge to help them navigate the court system. The advocates are also involved in representing the child to ensure that their medical, educational, emotional, and other unique needs are being met for their long-term well-being. In order to fulfill their role as advocates, CASA volunteers will visit children regularly in their homes, schools, or community centers, attend court hearings, and provide recommendations to judges regarding placement, services, and overall welfare. The primary goal of CASA is to help the child “reach a safe and permanent home as quickly as possible.”

The nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organizations fundraise “through a diverse mix of individual giving, events, grants, and partnerships, with the goal of building sustainable, community-based support,” according to Rese. Their biggest fundraising event is the Go Blue Dress Down Cocktail Party and Golf Outing. This year, the event will be held on Monday, June 8, at the Linwood Country Club. Their sole ask event for the year is the Community Awareness Luncheon.

According to Judy Rese, assistant director of Development of CASA for Children for Atlantic, Cape May, and Camden Counties, nearly 200 CASA volunteers are currently advocating for 382 children across three South -

ern New Jersey counties. She added that over the organization’s 30-year history, CASA has steadily expanded its budget, board, staff, volunteer base and number of children served — growing from a grassroots effort in Atlantic County to include Cape May County in 2001 and Camden County in 2022 — while remaining committed to its core mission of ensuring every child in foster care in those counties has a dedicated advocate and maintaining a strong focus on strategic, community-centered growth.

During the Community Awareness Luncheon, attendees will learn how CASA volunteers are advocating for children in foster care and the ways members of the community can support their mission. The guest speaker, Bryce MacLeod, has a long personal connection to the child welfare system, having been involved for about 15 years as a youth. The event is free to attend, and guests will be given the opportunity to make a contribution. Registration is required to attend. For information on attending and inviting others to join, contact: Kirsten@CASAacc.org.

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

If you've had enough of winter, it's not too early to start thinking warm thoughts. Ocean City is planning another great lineup of spring events.

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.

The spring season starts with annual easter events. The Great egg Hunts on March 28 and April 4 will invite children to stop by participating boardwalk stores in their search for

eggs and treats. The easter Dueling Pianos Show will be on Sunday, April 5, outside the Music Pier. The spring calendar continues with Girls Weekend from April 10 to April 12, and the OC Con Comic Book and Memorabilia Show on April 11 and

April 12 (artist registration is open at ocnjcon.com). The madcap Doo Dah Parade falls on April 18 this year and will feature the usual brigade of basset hounds

The Sports Memorabilia Show returns to a two-day event on April 25 and April 26 at the Music Pier. Stay posted for announcements about this year’s special guests. Vendor registration is open at ocnj.us/ SportsMemorabiliaShow.

Martin Z. Mollusk seeks his shadow on May 1, and we’re betting that he’ll bring us another early summer.

The Spring Block Party returns on May 2.

May 9 brings the Spring Cruisin’ the Boards Car Show on the Boardwalk and the Ocean City Schools Art Showcase at the Music Pier.

The Ocean City Skate Park hosts the all-girls Chica De Mayo skateboard party on May 17.

That all leads to the moment we wait for each year: the u nlocking of the Ocean and Business Persons Plunge. This traditional start to the summer season falls on Friday, May 22 this year.

Ocean City hospitality empire expands to Somers Point

Business Buzz

By Rich Baehrle

It’s rare to find a family of entrepreneurs who not only own one successful business, but also work together daily while expanding multiple hospitality ventures.

Meet Robert Idell Jr., his wife, Jillian and his parents, Bob and Sharon Idell – lifelong Ocean City residents with deep roots in both hospitality and real estate at the Jersey Shore.

Robert Idell Jr. has spent more than a decade building restaurant concepts and growing the family’s commercial and residential investment portfolio. His entrepreneurial focus on hospitality and real estate has helped shape several popular local destinations.

Jillian Idell, a graduate of Saint Joseph’s u niversity with a master’s degree in special education, brings creativity and passion to the family businesses. While her academic background is in education, her energy and ideas play a major role in the hospitali-

ty side of the operation.

Bob Idell Sr. is a longtime local real estate professional with extensive experience helping clients and securing strategic investments for the family.

Sharon Idell oversees administrative operations and supports the expanding footprint of the business.

Together, each family member plays a distinct and important role in the continued success of the Idell hospitality brand.

Building a local hospitality legacy

The Idell family owns and operates several well-known hospitality concepts in Ocean City, employing dozens of loyal team members – many of whom have been with the businesses for years.

One of their earliest successes was Sunrise Café, which opened in 2013 at the corner of 12th St. and Asbury Ave. in Ocean City. The café quickly became known as a friendly neighborhood spot with a welcoming atmosphere.

They later introduced Drip N Scoop, a coffee, doughnut and ice cream concept that is currently on hold, but expected to return in the future.

Momentum continued with the

opening of Dead- end Bakehouse in 2018 at 1050 Bay Ave. in Ocean City, a creative coffee and bagel concept featuring specialty breakfast and lunch sandwiches, fresh-squeezed orange juice and their now-famous chicken pies.

Another popular venture is Dockside Kitchen, located at 228 Bay Ave. in Ocean City, offering a bayside brunch experience from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a seasonal dinner club Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 to 9 p.m. The concept helped revive the waterfront dining experiences the town once enjoyed.

The family also operates Sand House Kitchen, at 9 Beach Road in Ocean City, delivering a true beachfront dining experience.

each concept has its own personality while maintaining a strong focus on quality ingredients, consistent branding and community involvement.

Dead-End Bakehouse comes to Somers Point

The family’s newest venture is an expansion of their successful Dead-

end Bakehouse brand.

In addition to the Ocean City flagship location, and a pop-up at the former Gillian’s Wonderland Pier (600 Boardwalk), the Idells officially opened their newest location Feb. 21 at 746 Shore Road in Somers Point, directly across from City Hall.

The response was immediate –and overwhelming. Customers began lining up as early as 6:30 a.m., eager to try the now-famous bagels and specialty breakfast offerings.

The menu includes all the popular favorites from the Ocean City location, including fresh-baked bagels made daily; traditional and creative cream cheese spreads; signature breakfast sandwiches; premium sourdough toasts; espresso drinks, cold brew, matcha and chai; fresh-squeezed orange juice and catering trays for offices and events, Robert Jr. said.

“People go crazy over our unique bagel flavors – our cheddar jalapeño sells like madness. Our everything bagels are covered with a ridiculous amount of everything seeds,” he said.

The team also offers fun, specialty flavors such as cheddar Old Bay, squid ink and creative sandwiches like the Jersey Hangover, Loxed and Cheesesteak Bagel.

The newest Dead- end Bakehouse is at 746 Shore Road, Somers Point. For more information, call 609-7884702.

Remember to support local businesses, especially small businesses, because they are the backbone of our communities.

Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com

Entertainment & Dining at the Shore

Top Weekly Entertainment Picks

By Steffen Klenk

This week we’re flipping the calendar and shining a spotlight on some fantastic entertainment throughout South Jersey. Get ready to set sail at the Atlantic City Boat Show, enjoy a night of laughs with Sal Vulcano and indulge yourself in a month-long culinary celebration with Taste Atlantic City. Get the inside scoop on what’s happening with our Top Weekly entertainment Picks.

What : Discover Boating Atlantic City Boat Show

Where : Atlantic City Convention Center

When : Now-Sunday, March 1

Time: Thursday and Friday, noon to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Website: www.acboatshow. com

One of the region’s premier marine events is docking in Atlantic City. See the largest boats, gear and marine innovations from top brands across the industry. Attendees can shop new models, learn from experts and experience hands-on activities, with hundreds of exhibitors and interactive features.

Where: The Music Box at Borgata

When : Friday, Feb. 27

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/themusic-box/maddie-and-tae.html

Who : Maddie & Tae: ‘The Love & Light Tour’

See the award-winning country duo, singers, songwriters and guitarists Maddie & Tae as they perform songs

from their latest album, “Love & Light,” along with their greatest hits.

What : Three Days Grace

Where: Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

When : Friday, Feb. 27

Time: 7 p.m.

Website : https://casino. hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ three-days-grace---alienation-tour

Get ready for an unforgettable night of hard rock as Three Days Grace takes the stage during their “Alienation Tour” this Friday. The multi-platinum band will deliver an explosive performance featuring their greatest hits, joined by special guests I Prevail and The Funeral Portrait.

What : Garden State Live

Where: The Balcony at Hard Rock

When : Friday, Feb. 27

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : https://casino.hardrock. com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/ garden-state-live

Get ready for Garden State Live, spotlighting the area’s vibrant music scene with a fresh lineup and genre every month. This Friday, enjoy an evening of reggae with LNJ Sessions, P-Funk North and Cheezy & The Crackers.

Who: Sal Vulcano

Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

When : Saturday, Feb. 28

Time: 8 p.m.

Website : www.theoceanac.com/ sal-vulcano

Best known as the co-creator and star of “Impractical Jokers,” Sal

Vulcano has built a successful comedy career with hit stand-up specials, popular podcasts and sold-out shows across the globe. Check out Vulcano live on his “ everything is Fine Tour” at Ovation Hall this Saturday.

What : One Wild Night: A Bon Jovi Tribute Concert

Where: Boogie Nights

When : Saturday, Feb. 28

Time: 8 p.m.

Website: www.boogienightsusa. com/atlantic-city/events

Take a trip back to the decade of big hair and chart-topping hits with “One Wild Night: The u ltimate Bon Jovi e xperience.” The ’80s will come to life with songs like “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Wanted Dead or Alive” and many more featuring the vocals of Alex Smith Barbieri and a band of seasoned, professional musicians.

Who: Billy Walton Band

Where: The Yard at Bally’s Atlantic City

When : Saturday, Feb. 28

Time: 9 p.m.

Website: https://www.bandsintown.com/ e/107905240-billy-walton-band-atthe-yard-at-bally's-atlantic-city

See South Jersey rock and soul guitar hero Billy Walton as he performs with

his band on Saturday. Hear blazing hot original songs and an array of covers that will have you singing and dancing all night.

What : Taste Atlantic City

When : March 1-31

Website: www.visitatlanticcity.com/ taste-ac/

Atlantic City Restaurant Week transforms into a month-long culinary celebration happening all throughout the month of March. This event showcases the city’s immersive and vibrant dining scene featuring tiered menus, exclusive food-focused experiences and an exciting kickoff event at this year’s Captain’s Table. Locals and visitors alike will have the opportunity to savor the best of Atlantic City’s flavors.

Taste Atlantic City is happening all throughout the month of March.

What : DJ Trivia

Where: eHT Vagabond

When : Wednesdays

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Website: www.vagabondkitchenandtap.com/home-eht

Gather your friends and test your knowledge each week with DJ Trivia. Categories range from general knowledge to history, music and more. There will be plenty of perks, prizes and camaraderie. Join in the fun.

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.

10% OFF HAPPY HOUR

Early Bird 8am-9am Nite Owl 9pm-10pm

Friday, February 27

Three Days Grace w/ I Prevail, The Funeral Portrait

▶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 Candlelight: Tribute to Queen and the Beatles

▶6 p.m.

Starlight Ballroom at Resorts

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.

Sound Waves at Hard Rock

The Phil Collins Story

▶7:30 p.m.

The Music Box at Borgata

Atlantic City Headliners

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

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.

Saturday, March 21

Brit Floyd

▶8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live at etess Arena

Peter Lemongello Jr.

▶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

FEBRUARY SPECIALS 2 COURSE MENU

The Concert Venue at Harrah’s

On Sale Now

Lenny Kravitz

▶Saturday, May 16

Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino

Rufus Du Sol

▶Saturday, Aug. 29

Atlantic City Beach

‘Garden State Live!’ returns to Hard Rock

By Chuck Darrow

“Garden State Live,” the first casino-era concert series to showcase original, homegrown talent, is returning to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Feb. 27.

“GSL!,” which was introduced last August, is designed to spotlight New Jersey-based musical artists representing a variety of genres, from country to rock to R&B. It debuted with a rip-snorting turn by Low Cut Connie, the gritty rock 'n' roll band led by the hyperkinetic, piano-pounding Cherry Hill native, Adam Weiner. Before that gig, Michael Woodside, Hard Rock’s vice-president of entertainment, told this column that the idea behind the series co-produced by the North2Shore Festival folks was inspired by the state’s long history of musical innovation and how some of the biggest names in pop music were once unknown and simply seeking an

audience. He also noted that casinos have never embraced these aspiring performers.

“There was a moment in time when Bruce Springsteen was playing in a bar in Asbury and no one knew who he was,” said Woodside.

“And as an industry, [casinos] haven’t really supported the up-andcoming artists. There’s so much great talent, but we’d never give them a chance to show their true creativity with their original content.”

Obviously, Woodside’s instincts that a casino (especially Hard Rock, whose brand is rooted in popular music) is a fitting venue for such acts was on point. Had last year’s monthly series not resonated with music fans (and added to the property’s bottom line), it’s highly unlikely there would be another slate of shows last year.

The reggae-based Cheesy & The Crackers are part of Friday's bill that will kick off 2026's 'Garden State Live' concert series at Hard

will spotlight three bands whose musical recipes all begin with a heaping helping of reggae: LNJ Sessions, P-Funk North and the wonderfully named Cheesy & The Crackers.

So far, four dates are on the books, including this Friday, Feb. 27, which

On March 20, rock is on the agenda courtesy of Gab Cinque Band, The Brothers union and Anthony Krizan

Band, while the April 17 bill features soul/R&B acts 120 (aka Village Bridge), Show Tyme Brooks & Da Traffic and Lem Turner. And May 8 is alt-rock night with CJ Sooy Band, Molly Ringworm and Surfing For Daisy.

While only four “GSL!” nights are currently on the books, it’s expected more shows will be added.

For tickets, go to ticketmaster.com.

Coincidence?

We recently pointed out that following our January column in which we suggested local casinos offer free parking, Resorts Casino-Hotel instituted a free-parking program which, while it comes with some restrictions, was certainly a step in the right direction.

And then it happened again.

Another one of our suggestions was that more casinos should program production shows. Well,

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City has announced it will soon be diving into the revue-show pool.

April 12 will see the opening of “’80s Live,” which, as the title suggests, features the music of some of that decade’s biggest stars, including Michael Jackson, Prince and Madonna. The program, which is being produced by AyCee-based impresario Allen Valentine, will run at the bayside pleasure dome’s Concert Venue Sundays at 4 p.m. through June 28. For tickets, go to ticketmaster.com.

Penn & Teller returning to AyCee

Let the celebration begin! Penn &

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday for the pair’s shows on May 14 and 15 at the Sound Waves theater inside Hard Rock. This isn’t just another engagement for P&T, as Atlantic City has been crucial to the team’s decades-long career as magic-and-comedy megastars: Their first casino gigs occurred at the longgone Trump Plaza Hotel & Casino in the late 1980s and ultimately led to their ongoing, and unprecedented-in-terms-of-length, residency at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. For tickets, go to ticketmaster. com.

Ocean residencies announced

Classic rock will once again be the sound of summer at Ocean Casino Resort thanks to two upcoming residencies.

Thursdays at 8 p.m. from June 25 to Sept. 3, Ocean faves Magical Mystery Doors returns to Ovation Hall with its unique twist on the tribute band concept.

The Reading, Pa. quintet dedicates itself to recreations of signature tunes by The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Doors. Their gimmick is mashing up some songs; for example, the lyrics to Zep’s revered “Stairway to Heaven” are sung over the chord progression of The Fab Four’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”

And from July 2 to Sept. 6, the Sunday, 4 p.m. shift will be handled by Boat House Row, which deals in “yacht rock” (that is soft-rock created by the likes of Michael McDonald, Steely Dan and Toto).

For tickets to all Ocean shows, go to ticketmaster.com.

Bon Jovi tribute at Boogie Nights

Last fall, Boogie Nights, the retro-themed disco inside Tropicana

Atlantic City, broke format by hosting Bark At the Moon, an Ozzy Osbourne tribute band. Well, it must have been a success, because Saturday night, Wild Night, which pays homage to Bon Jovi, will set up shop there.

Show time is 8 p.m. Admission (including post-gig nightclub access) is $20 (available at the door). You must be 21 or older to attend.

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

Thursday, February

8

Live & Local Music Calendar

TRIBUTE TRIBUTE TRIBUTE

Friday, February 27

Atlantic

7 p.m.

Steal the Sky

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Indelible Groove Band

6 p.m.

Incognito

10 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Balcony at Hard Rock Garden State Live w/ LNJ Ses

sions, P-Funk North, Cheezy & The Crackers

8 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Grooveheart

5 – 8:30 p.m.

The Banjamins

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Seed

Nylon Ghost w/ Dan Ruiz and The

The Wave at Golden Nugget

Obey Your Master: Metallica Tribute

9 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

Egg Harbor City

The Inn on St. Louis

James Commander

7 – 10 p.m.

446 St. Louis Ave.

Egg Harbor Township

A Touch of Italy

Matt Speak

6 – 9 p.m.

6629 Black Horse Pike

EHT Vagabond

Lovelight Grateful Dead Acoustic

Tribute w/ Mark Kapel

6 p.m.

3016 Ocean Heights Ave.

The Roost Pub & Grill

Breakfast Buffet:

Tony & Al

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

500 St. Andrews Dr. Margate Bocca

Bob & Bob

6 – 9 p.m.

7805 Ventnor Ave.

Memories

DJ Mike That

10 p.m.

9518 Amherst Ave.

Sunrise Tequila Bar

DJ Carl Chase

Hand Crafted Omelets, Premier Carving Stations, Lunch Entrée Selections, Children’s Offerings & Dessert Indulgences!

6 – 10 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

embers the Band

7 p.m.

Stealing Savanah

10 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

Rush Lounge at Golden Nugget

Camille K Band

5 p.m.

Grooveheart

10 p.m.

600 Huron Ave.

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock B Street Band 5 – 8:30 p.m.

Children

General Public: $59

General Public: $59

HP Member & Residence: $54

HP Member & Residence: $54

Children 5 to 12yrs: $25

Children 5 to 12yrs: $25

Elegant Dinner Buffet:

Signature Carving Stations, Premier Dining Entrees and a Decadent Dessert Showcase Finale!

General Public: $65

General Public: $65

HP Member & Residence: $60

HP Member & Residence: $60

Children 5 to 12yrs: $25

Children 5 to 12yrs: $25

DJ Dahve

8 p.m.

9700 Ventnor Ave.

Somers Point Crab Trap

That 70’s Band

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Josie Kelly’s

Danny eyer Band ft. Bill Ricci

8 p.m.

908 Shore Rd.

Tuckerton

The Lizzie Rose Music Room

Street Survivors Lynyrd Skynyrd e xperience

7:30 p.m.

217 e . Main St.

Woodbine

Ludlam Island Brewery

The Dead Reckoning

5 – 9 p.m.

2051 Dennisville-Petersburg Rd.

Sunday, March 1

Atlantic City

Nola’s Bar at Ocean Casino

Dueling Pianos

8 p.m.

500 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dan Jost & Friends

4 – 7:30 p.m.

Billy Walton Band

8:30 – 11:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Galloway McGettigan’s Nancy Malcun

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

500 S. New York Rd.

Margate

Sunrise Tequila Bar

Cole Moore

1 – 4 p.m.

9700 Ventnor Ave.

Monday, March 2

Atlantic City

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Isn’t it Always

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Gypsy Wisdom

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Tuesday, March 3

Absecon

Reddog’s Hi Point Pub

Karaoke with Lori Kelly

7 p.m.

5 N. Shore Rd.

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge at Hard Rock Sinatra Night

5 – 8:30 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock

Dane Anthony Band

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Who Brought the Dog

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Millville

Levoy Theatre Sons of Cream

7:30 p.m.

126-130 N. High St.

Wednesday, March 4

Atlantic City

Council Oak Lounge at Hard Rock

Oldies Trio

5 – 9 p.m.

1000 Boardwalk

The Lobby Bar at Hard Rock Sidearm

5 – 8:30 p.m.

Steal the Sky

9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1000 Boardwalk

Egg Harbor City

The Inn on St. Louis

Karaoke with Frankie the Singing Bartender

7 – 10 p.m.

446 St. Louis 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

One Hot Mess

6 – 9 p.m.

2 Broadway

Events subject to change.

Rose the royal

FEBRUARY 4TH - 28TH

North to Shore presents cool threeband bill at Hard Rock’s Balcony

Tune In, Turn On

With Doug Deutsch

As regular readers of this column are aware, Tune In Turn On is big into shining a light on local/regional talent that release recorded music, and perform live within this publication’s coverage area.

With this in mind, we’re here today to tell you all about Cheezy & The Crackers, who will be part of a solid three-band reggae music-flavored bill, along with LNJ Sessions and P-Funk North at The Balcony at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City this Friday, Feb. 27 starting at 7 p.m.

This is part of the ongoing Garden State Live! monthly concert series at the Hard Rock in conjunction with North to Shore.

Tickets and info: https://north -

toshore.com/event/gardenstate-live-7reggae-featuringlnj-sessions-p-funk-northand-cheezy-the-crackers/

Cheezy & The Crackers, from the Millville area, are very familiar to music lovers here at the Jersey Shore. Formed in 2005, the group’s core members are Cheezy McNasty (vocals and various instruments), Tom “TBird” Parker (drums), and Albert Trionfo (bass and vocals). The band — who’ve recorded a number of well-received albums over the years — was once the weekly houseband draw every Thursday at the old Laguna Rum Bar in Brigantine (now home to LaScala’s Beach House), where they even took the stage with the legendary reggae ensemble, The Wailers.

Oh, by the way, if you do happen to miss their show in A.C. this Friday, they will be back at Hard Rock Friday and Saturday, March 6 and 7. And if you miss those shows, too, fear not: The group are regulars at Borgata Casino/Hotel’s B Bar.

Lil Something” (featuring DJ emaculate), and “Around the Way.”

Tune Ups

Two of this column’s favorite bands are also in action this weekend. Billy Walton Band performs at The Yard at Bally’s this Saturday, Feb. 28, part of the casino’s new Yard@Night concert series (9 p.m,-1 a.m.; free).

The Yard is a spacious venue with good acoustics, and we’re glad to see it back in use, with a number of other shows planned here as well. e xpect a new album of original recordings from BWB in the near future. Info: casinos.ballys.com/atlantic-city/the-yard.htm

Cheezy & The Crackers play a mix of reggae covers, covers of rock songs and originals. We have heard their music and it’s infectious — just the right vibe for dancing and helping you dream of the warm, summer days ahead.

Other groups of note that Cheezy & The Crackers have opened for include rapper Snoop Dogg, rock legends ZZ Top, Israeli rapper Matisyahu, roots-rockers The Avett Brothers and rockers O.A.R.

Bands are often judged by their recorded body of work. To date, C&TC have released several albums: “Put This in Your Pipe and Smoke It” (2007, full-length demo); “Don’t Talk About It, Be About It” (2011); “Cheezy McNasty for Mayor” (2012); “Goodness Gracious” (2014); “Bananas for Sasquatch” (gotta love the title!, 2014–15); “Caribbean Amphibians” (2017); and “Yes, Please!” (2020). Cheezy and the band also collaborated on “Flowers in My Room” (with Deejay emaculate x Willis Magillis), “All I Want for Weed Is Christmas,” “Just a

Also gigging this weekend: Bluesrock trio, Twisted Livin’, at the Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton, this Friday, Feb. 27. We spoke with TL guitarist/vocalist Denny Shiffler, who confirmed a new, originals-only album will be forthcoming in the near future. Tickets/info: https://www.lizzierosemusic.com/product-page/ twisted-livin-band-fri-feb-27th-2026 u ntil next week, keep on rockin’ and don’t let the snowy weather get you down!

Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@ gmail.com

When the divas came to Atlantic City

By Bruce Klauber

No, they didn’t cause the pandemonium that The Beatles did when they appeared at Atlantic City’s Convention Hall, now Boardwalk Hall, on Aug. 30, 1964, but the Atlantic City performances of the legendary divas of show business through the years filled a lot of big rooms, including Boardwalk Hall, and caused a load of excitement.

Judy Garland’s career had more ups and downs than a yoyo, but in 1961, she was riding high once again after a successful european tour and a famed concert at Carnegie Hall on April 23, 1961. The recording of that evening won five Grammy Awards. The night was described by many at that time as “the greatest night in show business history,” and the soundtrack album continues to sell.

27. It was, of course, sold out.

Streisand did not perform in Atlantic City again until Nov. 4, 2006, when she returned to Boardwalk Hall for a sold-out show that was a part of her North American concert tour. Vincent Jackson, writing for The Press of Atlantic City, was there.

“Streisand, 64, spent almost as much time talking as singing,” Jackson wrote. “Besides stopping to eat at Caesars, the concert’s sponsor, she mentioned Fralinger’s Salt Water Taf-

playing the slots and eating lunch – but she never performed in the city again.

Garland came to Atlantic City’s Convention Hall on Aug. 4 and 8, di -

rect from sold-out shows at the Newport Jazz Festival and Forest Hills Stadium in Forest Hills, New York. There was such a demand for tickets – most of Atlantic City’s grander hotels, including The Chelsea, were offering tickets for sale in addition to the Convention Hall box office – that she booked a return date on Sept. 3.

In the early days of Barbra Streisand’s career, many in the business deemed her the natural successor to Garland as a singer and performing artist. In 1964, after she won two Grammy Awards and sold a load of albums, she returned to Broadway to portray legendary actress Fanny Brice in the show, “Funny Girl” at the Winter Garden Theatre. She also appeared at Convention Hall on Aug.

fy and popping into a dollar store. The glamorous Streisand in a dollar store is something that needs photographic proof. ‘I never made it down to the beach, but I got a taste of Atlantic City,’ Streisand said.”

Singer Lena Horne was frequently booked at Atlantic City’s Club Harlem in the 1940s, and even had a bit part in the 1944 film, “Atlantic City,” but she didn’t play in a big casino showroom until March of 1982.

Horne had announced her retirement in 1980, at the age of 63, but her retirement lasted only a year. In the fall of 1981, Horne and the Broadway production company, The Nederlander Organization, mounted a brand new show called “Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music.” Its 333-performance Broadway run closed on Horne's 65th birthday, June 30, 1982. Later that same week, she performed the entire show again to record it for television broadcast and home video release.

Next she began a 41-city tour of the united States and Canada, which lasted until 1984. The tour began over the July 4, 1982 weekend in Massachusetts at Tanglewood, the prestigious summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

In all probability, Horne’s show at The Superstar Theatre at Resorts International took place shortly after. Though it’s been said she loved Atlantic City – supposedly, she often traveled incognito by bus, joining the other daytrippers for an afternoon of

Songstress Peggy Lee was a mainstay in Las Vegas since she first played the Sands in January of 1956. Though she first performed at the Steel Pier in the summer of 1949 with her husband, guitarist Dave Barbour and his trio, Peggy Lee did not return to Atlantic City until some 35 years later.

As Lee grew more popular, she

worked larger, and more sophisticated rooms like the Royal Box at New York City’s Americana Hotel. Atlantic City didn’t have the type of venue she was used to, so she stayed away until Aug. 9, 1984.

The occasion was a live concert, with her rhythm section, that took place in the Rendezvous Lounge at Resorts International. She sang most of her hits, including “Fever,” “Big Spender” and “Is That All There Is?” and later taped additional segments

↘Continued on 44

with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. The combined shows were later broadcast on PBS, and even later on VHS video, and in 2003 on DVD. It remains one of the rarest items in the Peggy Lee catalog.

If we go by the literal definition of the word “diva” – it originates from the Latin word for a female deity or goddess – there was nobody that fit the description more, as it applied to show business, than Pearl Bailey.

In her earlier years, Pearlie Mae headlined frequently at Club Harlem and Million Dollar Pier, but she only made it to the Atlantic City hotel/casino stage once that we know of and that was in tandem with Jerry Lewis at the Showboat in May of 1988.

The tragic diva, Whitney Houston, performed in Atlantic City on five occasions that have been reported.

Her first casino appearance took place before 750 high rollers at the Sands in 1985. A gigantic star by way of her record sales and her first film appearance in 1992’s “The Bodyguard,” she returned to the Sands in 1992 and again a year later. In 1998, on the heels of “My Love Is Your Love,” her first studio album in eight years, she was booked into the Hard Rock’s etess Arena, which seated around 8,000 at the time. Houston sold out. In 1999 she made

her final appearances in Atlantic City, performing three, sold-out shows at Caesars on June 30, July 1, and July 3.

According to The Whitney Houston timeline, the singer did not work at Caesars or anywhere else on the July 4 holiday. She wanted to celebrate the holiday at home.

A diva could do that.

LEARN MORE THEBOR

Welcome to the “Grape Unknown”

Drink Up!

By David Setley

Introducing customers to new wines — either new to the store, or new to them — is one of the best aspects of my job. A few days ago, a gentleman asked for recommendations on any lesser-known wines that I thought he would enjoy. For this week’s article, I’ll share the suggestions I gave to him. Welcome to “The Grape u nknown.”

evidence shows that wine has been produced there since approximately 6,000 B.C. That’s over 8,000 years ago! To put this into perspective, the Phoenicians began wine production approximately 4,000 years ago, the Greeks began 3,000 years ago, and the Romans only got involved approximately 2,000 years ago. There are more vines of this varietal planted in the world than either Pinot Gris or Cabernet Franc, although many people are unfamiliar with the Rkatsiteli grape. My first introduction to Rkatsiteli wine was not one from Georgia, but rather from Dr. Konstantin Frank’s winery in the Finger Lakes of New York. It became an instant favorite when it was served at a tasting event. The host gave us an unforgettable suggestion on how to pronounce the wine, saying, “our cats on the telly.” Try it!

Rkatsiteli is one of the oldest wine grape varietals still in production. It is the most planted grape in the nation of Georgia, specifically in the Caucasus Mountains region between eastern europe and Asia. Archaeologists have identified Georgia as one of the world’s original birthplaces of wine production.

Rkatsiteli wines are traditionally produced as a skin-contact wine, resulting in an amber color and a richer aroma and flavor than is typically found in most whites. Rather than oak barrels or stainless-steel vats, this wine is fermented in qvevris,

an egg-shaped, beeswax-lined terracotta vessel. It truly is a unique white wine. For a bottle straight from the source, I recommend the Glekhuri Qvevri Rkatsiteli 2022 from the Kakheti region of Georgia. It has aromas of guava, passion fruit and flavors of peach, pear, and lemon preserves with a rich, nutty finish. It pairs well with spices that you might find in an Indian or Armenian restaurant, or even with salad or seafoods.

My next “grape unknown” is another ancient grape from Georgia. Saperavi is the most widely planted red grape in that country. In the Georgian language, Saperavi means “the place of color.” This is likely because it is a rare teinturier grape whose pulp and skin are both red. Almost all red grapes have white pulp. The dry wine produced from this grape is dark ruby red in color and has the rich flavors of dark fruit, cherries, and plums with relatively high acidity and low tannins.

Two great examples from Kakheti, Georgia, are the Dila-O Saperavi and the 8K Ancient Red, whose name is an homage to the 8,000 years of wine-making in the country. Both wines pair beautifully with roasted or grilled meat or vegetables.

Speaking of teinturier grapes, another grape unknown to many is Alicante Bouschet. Henri Bouschet

was a 19th-century French viticulturist who became famous for his pioneering work in developing teinturier grape varieties. His objective was to enhance the color of red wines. His most enduring discovery was initially called the Henri Bouschet grape, but later became known as Alicante Bouschet. Although this grape did not catch on significantly in the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region of southern France, where Henri lived and worked, it later gained prominence in the southern Portuguese wine region of Alentejo.

I am a big fan of the red wines from this region blended with Henri’s grape. Two outstanding examples are the Guarda Rios Red Blend and the Cartuxa evora Colheita Tinto. These wines pair perfectly with roasted pork, lamb, or beef.

For another “unknown grape,” we go to the Italian island of Sardinia. In 2004, National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner investigated locations, now known as the Blue Zones, where people lived significantly longer and with greater health than the rest of the population. One of these locations is the island of Sardinia. Reasons for longevity in residents of Blue Zones include healthy eating, stress management, avoiding smoking and other risky substances, restorative sleep, and a sense

of community. In his discussion of Sardinia, Buettner also mentioned the wine produced on the island: Cannonau di Sardegna. Although red wines, in moderation, are often discussed as part of a healthy diet, Cannonau is exceptionally high in antioxidants and has two to three times the “artery-scrubbing” flavonoids as other red wines. In his Blue Zone book, the author notes that in addition to the health qualities of Cannonau, the way that Sardinians consume the wine may be just as important. Sardinians drink Cannonau while surrounded by good friends and good food. So, get some friends or family together, make a good Mediterranean-style dinner, and enjoy the Cantina Santa Maria La Palma Le Bomarde Cannonau di Sardegna. I can’t guarantee that you will live to 100, but I am confident that you will enjoy this rich, dry Italian red and the memories made.

The final grape unknown comes from the Languedoc region of southern France. Picpoul de Pinet is both the name of the grape and the wine subregion where this grape is grown. Picpoul wine dates back to the first century B.C., when the Romans built a road connecting Italy to newly conquered regions of Spain. even today, that road goes directly through this wine region. Vineyards in Picpoul de

Pinet are planted on the banks of the Mediterranean Ocean. Traditionally, the bottles used for Picpoul wine are tall, slender, and made of green glass. The words “Picpoul de Pinet” are embossed, along with a cross, on the face of the bottle. embossed waves are depicted on the bottle’s neck to reflect the region’s proximity to the sea. The name of the wine means “lip stinger” because of its high acidity. But don’t let that deter you; the acidity results in an incredibly refreshing wine! The aromas and flavors are very light and crisp, similar to a Sancerre, but with a distinct saline minerality that invokes the sea. Try the Cabrol Picpoul de Pinet. This is the perfect wine for oysters, but also pairs extremely well with cheese, salad, shrimp, lobster, and grilled fish. If you, like me, are a wine adventurer, I hope you will give these wines a try. For more information, go to passionvine.com, or, as always, stop in to see me at the store or contact me at dsetley@passionvines.com. until next time, keep exploring and happy wining!

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

Listen to your heart: The quiet warning signs of AFib

By Robin Stoloff

It usually doesn’t start with a dramatic moment. More often, it’s a small, strange sensation we brush off because life is busy and we feel fine otherwise.

Maybe it happens while you’re unloading groceries, walking the dog, or sitting in traffic. Or maybe it shows up in the middle of a pickleball game or a tennis match, right after a long rally, when you pause at the baseline and feel your heart doing something you can’t quite describe. A flutter. A quick pounding. A few beats that feel out of step. You take a sip of water, blame it on caffeine or stress, and keep going.

Sometimes that’s all it is. But sometimes it’s atrial fibrillation, better known as AFib, one of the most common heart rhythm problems and one of the easiest to miss.

AFib starts in the upper chambers of the heart, the atria. Instead of beating in a steady, coordinated pattern, the electrical signals become disorganized. The heartbeat can become irregular, too fast, or both. When the heart isn’t beating in a normal pattern, blood can pool and form clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke. That’s why AFib is more than an inconvenience. It’s a health issue worth paying attention to.

According to Dr. Michael Link, AtlantiCare electrophysiologist, “AFib can cause strokes and heart failure, and it can make people feel terrible. We say it can make you an old man or old woman prematurely. For general heart health and to reduce rhythm issues, focus on diet, exercise, and weight loss. Obesity and being overweight are epidemics. Sleep apnea is an emerging risk factor, along with high blood pressure, thyroid issues, smoking, and stress. Blood clots in the legs or lungs can also trigger it. And unfortunately, the most important risk factor is age, the one we can’t do much about, so as we get older, it’s something to pay even more attention to.”

What makes AFib tricky is how different it feels from person to

person. Some people notice it immediately. They feel their heart racing, skipping, or flipping around in their chest. Others feel short of breath, unusually tired, lightheaded, or unable to exercise the way they normally do. And some people feel absolutely nothing. No pounding, no warning, no symptoms, just an irregular rhythm discovered at a routine visit or after a smartwatch notification.

AFib sometimes announces itself on the court. Pickleball, basketball and tennis are stop-and-go sports. A burst of effort, a quick recovery, another burst. That constant shift can make an irregular heartbeat easier to notice, especially if you’re dehydrated or running on too little sleep. Alcohol, stress, and excess caffeine can also trigger palpitations in some people, and winter indoor dryness can leave us more dehydrated than we realize.

If you notice palpitations during play, the goal is to respond calmly and smartly. Stop for a moment. Breathe. Hydrate. See if the feeling passes. If it becomes a pattern, it’s time to get checked.

There are clear situations where you should seek medical care right away such as chest pressure or pain, fainting or near-fainting, severe shortness of breath, or a feeling that you might pass out. Of course, stroke warning signs require emergency help: sudden weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, confusion, or a sudden severe headache. even without emergency symptoms, recurring palpitations deserve attention. A helpful approach is to notice the pattern. Did it happen during exercise or after you stopped? How long did it last? Did you have more caffeine than usual, drink alcohol, take a decongestant, miss a meal, or sleep poorly? Bring those details to your provider. The description often helps guide next steps.

This is also where wearable devices can be both helpful. Many smartwatches and fitness trackers can detect an irregular rhythm. That information can be useful to share with your clinician, especially if the rhythm comes and goes, but wearables have limits. They can miss episodes you have when you’re not wearing the device, and motion during sports can create inaccurate readings. A smartwatch alert is a reason to follow up, not a diagnosis by itself.

Diagnosing AFib often starts with an eKG. If the rhythm problem is happening during your appointment, it may show up immediately, but AFib can be intermittent, so many people need to wear a monitor at home for several days or even weeks. The goal is to capture the rhythm and understand how often it happens.

Once AFib is confirmed, treatment depends on your symptoms and your overall health. The plan is usually built around a few key goals: lowering stroke risk, controlling the heart rate, and improving how you feel.

Stroke prevention is a major focus with AFib. Some people need a blood thinner to lower stroke risk, especially if they also have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, or a history of stroke. Others may not. It’s a personalized decision to talk through carefully with your provider.

Another goal is rate control. If your heart runs too fast during episodes, medications can slow it down, easing symptoms and protecting your heart over time. For others, the

priority is restoring and maintaining a normal rhythm. That may involve medication, and sometimes a controlled “reset” called cardioversion.

Catheter ablation is also an option for some patients. During this procedure, a specialist targets the areas triggering AFib to reduce episodes and improve quality of life, especially when symptoms continue despite medication.

The bottom line is that AFib is common and treatable, but it’s easy to miss because it can be subtle. If your heart feels “off,” especially during activity, don’t shrug it off. Pause, pay attention, and get it checked. When it comes to AFib, the goal is simple: Protect your heart and keep the beat.

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

Why second home owners should check on their properties for blizzard damage

By Sarah Fertsch

For most owners of second homes along the South Jersey coast, winter storms are a rarity – aside from the occasional hurricane or late-autumn nor’easter. But the winter of 2026 has brought unusually extreme weather.

After this week’s powerful blizzard blanketed barrier island communities like Brigantine, Ocean City and Ventnor, experts say absentee homeowners shouldn’t assume everything is fine simply because the house survived previous storms. Winter coastal weather can quietly cause damage that worsens over time, especially when no one is there to notice.

Here are some key reasons to check on your home and what to look out for:

Hidden water damage is the biggest threat

Melting snow can be a bigger problem than you think. When temperatures fluctuate, snow can seep into tiny cracks around roofs, siding, chimneys, skylights and windows. Once inside, it can refreeze overnight, expanding and worsening the damage.

Ice dams – ridges of ice that form along roof edges – are particularly dangerous. They prevent melting snow from draining properly, forcing water under shingles and into ceilings or walls.

If your home has not been inspected since the storm, look for water stains on ceilings and walls, peeling paint, bubbling drywall, drips near light fixtures and musty odors. even small leaks can grow mold in a matter of days.

Frozen pipes can burst after the storm

Barrier-island homes are especially vulnerable to frozen plumbing, particularly if the property was not winterized or if power outages occurred.

Pipes often burst after temperatures begin to rise, when ice inside expands or melts unevenly. A slow leak inside a vacant home can run for days or weeks before discovery, causing catastrophic damage.

Check for damp cabinets under sinks, reduced water pressure, unusual sounds when flipping on a faucet and pooling water in crawl spaces. Make sure to run water throughout the house to ensure everything is properly intact.

Roof stress and structural concerns

Heavy, wind-packed snow can weigh far more than it appears, sometimes exceeding what older beach bungalows were designed to hold.

Flat or low-slope roofs, common in shore construction, are particularly vulnerable. Drifting snow can also create uneven loads, stressing certain sections more than others.

Wind damage isn’t always obvious

Blizzard conditions bring hurricane-force gusts that can loosen siding, roofing materials, flashing, gutters and outdoor fixtures. From the street, a home may look perfectly fine, while wind may have lifted shingles, bent vents, or damaged soffits in ways that allow water intrusion later.

Walk the perimeter (or have someone do it for you) and check for loose or missing shingles, detached gutters, damaged decks or fences and siding debris. If you spring a leak by the next storm, you will learn why it’s important.

Security risks increase after storms

Vacant homes become more vulnerable after severe weather. Power outages can disable alarm systems,

exterior lighting, or cameras. Snowdrifts can also obscure entry points, making it easier for trespassers to go unnoticed.

Additionally, an unshoveled walkway signals that no one is home. Consider checking on your property to maintain security, check for signs of forced entry and verifying that alarm systems are running.

HVAC systems need attention

Heating systems often run continuously during extreme cold. If a furnace malfunctions or fuel runs low, interior temperatures can drop quickly, leading to frozen pipes and humidity issues.

Have someone confirm that the thermostat is operational, heat is reaching all areas of the home and no unusual smells or sounds are present. If your system runs on oil or propane, verify fuel levels are adequate.

Peace of mind and insurance protection

Many insurance policies expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage after a storm. Delayed action can complicate claims if small issues escalate. If you cannot visit in person, ask a trusted neighbor or hire a local property manager.

But beyond financial concerns, there’s a simple emotional reality: second homes represent memories, retirement dreams and family traditions. Checking on the property quickly protects more than just the structure; it protects your family.

By T. Eric Reich

When it comes to weather, we typically plan for a mild spring, beach days in the summer, a cool fall, and cold winter months. But in light of this week’s blizzard and the deep freeze before that, we know that the weather can be very unexpected. The same goes for planning in retirement. unlike saving for retirement, where consistent contributions to low-cost, well-diversified, equity-heavy portfolios and enough time will likely get you to your goal, planning during retirement is a lot harder and can be unpredictable. When saving, if I have not yet reached my goal, I can maybe delay retirement a year or cut out some extra spending, etc. In retirement, I am planning for an end date that I don’t know. Retirement could last five years or 35-plus years. My income needs

could be completely altered due to an unforeseen event. As difficult as this is, the bigger issue is that I don’t know what will happen during retirement, which could derail my plans.

So how do we expect the unexpected during retirement? For starters, I usually ask clients if everything they thought was going to happen over the last 25-30 years actually happened exactly the way they thought it would. Nine times out of 10, they laugh. Of course, they laugh; it’s ridiculous to think that your life would turn out exactly the way you planned in every respect. My next question is always, why, then, would we think the next 25-30 years will be any different? There is so much more potential for something to go unplanned from 6590 than from 40-65. Caring for aging parents is an ever-growing problem. Children having their own family problems is another. When you were younger, you only had to worry about your family. If you have three kids, you now have to worry about your family as well as three additional families. That increases the potential for more family issues. Lastly, your own, or your spouse’s, health may be the biggest issue of all that could completely, and sometimes permanently, derail your

retirement plan.

We can’t stop the unexpected from happening. Instead of trying to stop it, we can make a plan for unknown future unexpected events. Just like we can plan to be more prepared for the next storm or unbearable heat wave. We don’t need to know what it is today; we simply need to know that it likely will happen. By planning for an unforeseen future event, we can hopefully mitigate the damage that such an event might cause. There are many ways to plan for an unforeseen event in retirement. Talk to your financial advisor about ways that might be appropriate for you.

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.

Snowed in with four-week-old puppies

By Heidi Clayton

The only silver lining of the blizzard currently happening is that I am trapped inside with four-week-old puppies, who have become professional time wasters! What a difference a week makes. The puppies are now full-fledged little beings who can hear, startle at loud noises, recognize me when I enter the room and even run towards the exit of the whelping box to greet me.

With the puppies now reacting to being startled and easily rebounding from the startle, they have officially entered the critical socialization period. At this age, a puppy’s brain is like a sponge. Now is the time to start exposing them to things in small, safe doses, and they should embrace these experiences. I start this process by putting blankets down on the bedroom floor where the whelping box is and letting them explore the room until they are less wobbly on their feet. I put rolled-up blankets and different soft toys around for them to learn how to climb over. At this age, climbing over a pillow is a lot of work. After about 10 minutes of exploring, the puppies are exhausted and will fall to sleep almost where they are standing.

of toys. Studies show that puppies that live in a stimulus-rich environment grow bigger brains and are more emotionally stable than those that do not. every day, I add a different toy to their area, and they have just started to mouth and play with them. I use toys that make crinkly sounds or wobble a bit so they can also strengthen their muscles.

It is also time for them to start meeting as many people as possible and to be picked up, kissed, and pet. I have had people over who are very willing to just sit and cuddle with the babies after they collapse from a lap around the bedroom. It is not uncommon for puppies at this age to growl while they are picked up when tired or are busy exploring. This in no way means the puppy will be aggressive. It is just an emotional response to a new sensation, and they all grow out of it, so I pick them up, pet them and kiss them as much as possible. When I am sitting or lying on the floor with them, it only takes a split second to be pummeled by the babies as they start to understand the concept of seeking out human contact.

The puppies can now hear and startle at loud noises.

the raw meat they will be raised on. I let my baby puppies eat as much as they want and offer multiple meals throughout the day. I also offer them warm goat's milk a few times a day to give Miki a break. They are very healthy, good eaters, and Miki is now going as long as three hours at a time

between feedings. She is a wonderful mother who still wants to clean them, and until now has only been licking their rear ends. However, as they mature, she shows them love by kissing their faces when they approach her. This week, I will be setting up a weaning pen in another room of the house for the puppies to move into. This is where they will live instead of the whelping box and will learn to start to potty away from their bedding more until I can start to get them outside.

Follow the puppies’ growth on Facebook or Instagram at Four on the Floor Dog Training. If you have any questions, please feel free to email them to heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.

I also expose them to something new and novel each day in the form

This week, I have also started feeding them a lot. While nursing from their mother is still important, they are starting to grow sharp little fangs and need more nutrition to keep up with their growth. Their meals consist of human baby rice cereal mixed with goat's milk and a mixture of jarred beef baby food and

I can help you put the pieces

3/31/26

3/31/26

Playing In The Band

Find these bands that have rocked

Shore Local Trivia Tribute Band Trivia

The Atlantic City area is a mecca for cover bands. Some specialize with a look and a sound just like the original rockers. Who are these bands a tribute to?

SUDOKU

ACROSS

1. Fake deal

5. Dashboard acronym

8. Oxen connector

12. Guesstimate phrase (2 words)

13. Give a darn

14. exhibitionist

15. It's OTAN in French

16. Carbon monoxide lacks this

17. Geometry class prop

18. *Lou Reed: "She says, "Hey babe, take a walk on the ____ ____"

20. european "curtain"

21. Mustangs, e.g.

22. Campaign pro

23. Cause of wheezing

26. Men's Colonial headgear

30. Fib

31. *Bon Jovi: "Take my hand, we'll make it I swear. Woah, livin' on a ____"

34. The only thing to fear?

35. Small and round, eyes description

37. Future fish

38. Alabama civil rights site

39. Tangelo

40. Shape clay, e.g.

42. James Corden's network

43. Awaited deliverer

45. Same as lathees

47. 0 meridian acronym

48. World-weary

50. Prefix with legal

52. *Aerosmith: "Sing with me, sing for the year. Sing for the ____"

55. Siberian prison

56. Pakistani language

57. *Dionne Warwick: "I think I'm going out of my ____"

59. Rapidly

60. Cheese app

61. "Cogito, ____ sum"

62. Diamond's corner

63. european economic Community

64. Whiskey grain, pl.

DOWN

1. *Kansas: "Carry on, my wayward ____"

2. "Stick in one's ____"

3. Italian wine region

4. Dough

5. *The Buggles: "Video killed the ____"

6. Cattle controls

7. Bébé's mother

8. *elton John: "And it seems to me you lived ____ ____"

9. Capital of Norway

10. Hiking sandals brand

11. Mess up

13. Show's other star

14. Rap sheet listing

19. Negative house description

22. p in #5 Across

23. Michael Jackson's "Thriller", e.g.

24. Military blockade

25. Bluish greens

26. Banana leftover

27. ____'s, grape jelly brand

28. Many iambs

29. *Guns N' Roses: "Take me down to the paradise city where the ____"

32. Missouri capital tourist attraction

33. *ABBA: "Waterloo - knowing my fate is to be with ____"

36. *Queen: "You got mud on your face, you big ____"

38. Hiding place

40. Aptitude test acronym

41. Black Death

44. Picture

46. Restraint

48. Ballet rail

49. Playful

50. Immature butterfly

51. unfortunately, exclamation

52. Jiffy's grease

53. Spooky

54. uncontrollable anger

55. Loquacious person's gift

58. Not don'ts

The Cosmic Connection with Ursula

Duffy

Rising sign horoscopes for Feb. 26 – March 4

Aries: The effects of your daily routines on your health are in the spotlight, gut health in particular. Shed what’s toxic to the wellness of your vessel. Schedule checkups for any pets.

Taurus: That which no longer brings you joy becomes impossible to

Weekly Horoscopes

ignore. Let go of what no longer pleases you, even if it involves taking a risk. Positivity will flow toward your future.

Gemini: Home and family themes are perfected, although a delay, review, and/or release of something may be part of the experience. Be sure to be mindful of work/home balance.

Cancer: efforts in finding your voice are culminating, along with results of the learning experience. Improvement in communication and leaps in personal growth are important milestones!

Leo: You’re gaining more awareness around the interplay between your confidence and your earning potential and possessions. Surrender any notions that resourcefulness is solely on you.

Live in Touch with Your Soul

is

Offering Astrological Aromatherapy, a variety of Astrology readings, Aromatherapy consults and products, the Becoming Chiron podcast, downloadable classes and guided meditations.

Ursula is the author of

Virgo: A constricting old skin is finally shed. Be present with the release, and try not to intellectualize your feelings. Reach out to someone to lend an ear or a shoulder to cry on.

Libra: The veil lifts on forces you may sense have been working against you. Give yourself extra rest or time away from the world if needed. The liminal requires some solitude.

Scorpio: Is there purity in the heart of your group of friends? You may feel called toward an evaluation of your community. Your true tribe is supportive of your hopes, dreams, and goals.

Sagittarius: If it hasn’t yet happened, a change in your work or professional life is imminent. embrace it as it creates the space you need to grow more into and feel more at home.

Capricorn: The whole week may feel like a lead-up to a great, necessary deconditioning. Listen to the language of your heart; it’s your truest guide through any of life’s journeys.

Aquarius: Ride the wave this week. Through much ebb and flow between what’s yours and what’s intimately shared with another, that which is removed will be incredibly liberating.

Pisces: A detox of the relationships you’ve outgrown is in order. People come and go with purposes and lessons. Put yourself first, and move forward with compassionate action.

Weekly astrology summary:

Mercury, the messenger and magician, holds the cosmic mic this week. Tread lightly as the week begins with the start of the first Mercury retrograde of the year through the Piscean waters on Feb. 26. Allow time and

space to steep in the deeper meaning of any communication mishaps, travel snafus, tech glitches, or reemergence of old friends. Drop into your heart, allowing it to be your guide, especially through any volatility. Mercury presides over the next full moon, also a total lunar eclipse. It will be perfected in Virgo on Tuesday, March 3, at 6:37 a.m. The dynamic between control and surrender hangs in the balance as what lies beneath in the depths of the proverbial ocean rises to the surface. underlying energies are very supportive of allowing plenty of time for gentle release, processing, assimilating, and taking extra time to feel, rest, and intuit. It’s an energetically big full moon, and the eclipse will be visible to a large portion of the world. Here in South Jersey, you may catch a glimpse of it as the full moon is setting in the west. Find more information and visibility maps on timeanddate. com.

See the above horoscope for your rising sign for more specific insight and guidance. If you’re unsure what your rising sign is, you can email me at ursaalchemy@gmail.com, learn more in my tutorial video on my ursa Alchemy YouTube channel, or cast your own birth chart for free on astro.com.

Ursula Duffy is a Professional Astrologer, Certified Aromatherapist and founder of Ursa Alchemy. Find her astrology readings and astrological aromatherapy services, teachings, podcast, get in touch and more at www.ursaalchemy.com or ursaalchemy@gmail.com.