Friends of the
Ocean City Pops
annual luncheon
OCEAN CITY – “Celebrating the Golden Age of Music” is the theme of the Friends of the Ocean City Pops Annual Luncheon set for Thursday, August 21, at the Flanders Hotel, 719 E. 11th St., Ocean City. Doors open at 11:30 a.m.
The event continues to celebrate the Pops Orchestra, the oldest municipal orchestra in the United States, and will feature local vocalist Sara Maimone accompanied by Pops’ Maestro Vince Lee who will perform highlights from the Rodgers and Hammerstein songbook.
Tickets are $60 (includes parking) may be purchased at the Ocean City Music Pier before a Pops concert, beginning July 9. For additional information, contact Linda Herbert at (609) 214-2135.
Arts Team being
formed in Upper
UPPER TOWNSHIP – An initial virtual meeting of an Upper Township. Arts Team will be at 12:30 p.m. Friday, July 18, via Zoom.
The meeting will begin discussion on plans for how creative arts can help connect community interests to enhance awareness of sustainable best practices and support of the quality of life. in the Township of Upper. Community residents and organization leaders are invited to participate on the Zoom session to learn more and share suggestions.
Registration for the Zoom link is at https://tinyurl.com/UTArts
One of the initial efforts for the new Arts Team will be to establish a “Creative Arts Inventory” (CAI) for the municipality. The CAI Report will be an outline of existing creative arts assets that are available both within the Township and our surrounding area.
Examples will be shared of successful arts reports in similar communities.
The Upper Arts Team will function as a subcommittee of both the Upper Twp. Business Association and the UT Sustainable Jersey Green Team.
For more information or questions, contact Ralph Cooper, uppertwp25@gmail.com
Lunch & Learn:
Occupational Wellness
OCEAN CITY — Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County Family and Community Health Sciences program is partnering with the Ocean City Free Public Library to present The 8 Dimensions of Wellness: Occupational Wellness, from noon to 1 p.m. July 15.
The program, part of the new Lunch and Learn Series for the Ocean City Free Public Library running through November, is offered both virtually and in-person at 1735 Simpson Ave. in Ocean City.
The class is free but advanced registration is requested at go.rutgers.edu/bspc9t48. Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3609, for more information.
ArtQuest program
in Stone Harbor
STONE HARBOR — The Cape May County Library System Children’s Department presents ArtQuest, a series of programs for summer reading.
Each ArtQuest event will highlight a different famous artist and offer an art project in his or her style. The two artists chosen for July’s programs are Andy Warhol (participants will use foam block printing to create pop art) and Yayoi Kusama (participants will create polka-dot pumpkins).
The programs are scheduled for 3 to 4 p.m. July 14 and 28 at the Stone Harbor branch.
Registration is not required. Call (609) 463-6350, ext.300, or email children@cmclibrary.org for more information.
Picture Book
Workshop
STONE HARBOR — The Cape May County Library System presents a three-week picture book workshop with award-winning author Nancy Viau.
Participants will learn how writing and art come together to create a children’s book by brainstorming ideas and creating a work-in-progress picture book. No experience is required.
Viau has written many children’s books, including “Splish, Splash!” “First to Last” and “Today is a Beach Day!”
The program is scheduled for 6 to 7:30 p.m. July 14, 21 and 28 at the Stone Harbor branch.
Registration is required. Call (609)463-6350, ext.700, or email adultevents@cmclibrary.org for more information.
Kids Yoga
July 21, 28
UPPER TOWNSHIP — The Cape May County Library System Children’s Department has scheduled Kids Yoga, a series of yoga classes designed for children.
Each session is intended to boost confidence and instill mindfulness, as well as creativity and fun. It is recommended for children ages 6 and older. It is requested that participants bring a yoga mat or beach towel to each session.
Sessions are scheduled for 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. July 21 and 28 at the Upper Cape branch.
Registration is not required. Call (609) 463-6350, ext.300, or email children@cmclibrary.org for more information.
Pastel Workshop
July 25 in Upper
UPPER TOWNSHIP — The Cape May County Library System presents a pastel workshop instructed by Elissa Goldberg.
Participants will be guided through the process of creating a scene with soft pastels. The underpainting process, scumbling and layering techniques will be taught. No experience is necessary.
Goldberg is a member of the Pastel Society of America and her pieces are inspired by her travels and explorations of her native Bucks County.
The class is scheduled for 1 to 4 p.m. July 25 at the Upper Cape branch.
Registration is required. Call (609)463-6350, ext.700, or email adultevents@cmclibrary.org for more information.
Playwriting
Workshop
CAPE MAY — The Cape May County Library System presents a playwriting workshop instructed by Gayle Stahlhuth.
Participants will work through simple writing exercises that trigger the imagination to develop dialogue. The program is recommended for those age 17 and older and is geared toward all experience levels.
Stahlhuth was the producing artistic director for 23 years at the East Lynne Theater Company and has taught playwriting at theaters, universities, libraries, public schools and conferences.
The class is scheduled for 4 to 5:30 p.m. July 29 at the Cape May branch.
Registration is required. Call (609)463-6350, ext.700, or email adultevents@cmclibrary.org for more information.
‘Judy & Liza’ tribute
Aug. 1 in Cape May
CAPE MAY — Linda Gentille and the Jersey Shore Pops are set to launch their 2025 concert season at 6 p.m. Aug. 1 at Cape May Convention Hall with “Judy & Liza. ”
The show will pay tribute mother/daughter legends Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli.
Under the leadership of Gentille, the Jersey Shore Pops is a professional orchestra composed of local musicians performing classical and popular music concerts.
Joining the orchestra for “Judy & Liza” is vocalist Emily Viancourt, who can channel the essence of Judy and Liza in both mood and music while gifting the audience with her special artistry.
Individual tickets are $50; discounts are available for groups, seniors, children, military veterans, active-duty service members and the disabled. Call (609) 884-9565 for tickets.
Virtual Lunch &
Learn: Tomato Talk
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE – Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) of Cape May County Family and Community Health Sciences (FCHS) Program will hold the virtual Lunch & Learn Program, Tomato Talk, from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7.
The presenter will be Anneliese Kuemmerle, MS, RDN, program associate II, FCHS, RCE, Cape May County. This presentation will examine the benefits of tomatoes, both classic and creative ways to use tomatoes in the kitchen, and science-based ways to preserve tomatoes.
The virtual Lunch & Learn Series provides viewers with health and wellness information during their lunch hour. Topics vary and allow participants a chance to grab a healthy half hour tidbit of wellness to carry throughout the day.
Please register in advance for Tomato Talk at: https://go.rutgers.edu/o37mzr33.
Dimensions of Wellness workshop
OCEAN CITY – Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County Family and Community Health Sciences (FCHS) program is partnering with the Ocean City Free Public Library to present the workshop, The 8 Dimensions of Wellness: Intellectual Wellness, from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19.
The program, part of the new Lunch and Learn Series for the library running through November 2025, is offered both virtually and in-person at the library, 1735 Simpson Ave. The 8 Dimensions of Wellness will be presented by Chris Zellers, MPP, FCHS educator/assistant professor for Cape May County. “There are 8 components of Wellness defined by SAMHSA and this presentation will focus on intellectual wellness while suggesting ways to achieve better well-being,” Zellers said.
The class is free but advance registration is requested. Register for the in person or virtual class at: https://go.rutgers.edu/otpv930d. For more information, please call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3609.
Kids Cooking Club:
Jersey Fresh Fun
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County Family and Community Health Sciences Program has scheduled a Jersey Fresh-themed Kids Cooking Club session for 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 30 at Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 355 Court House-South Dennis Road.
The program is for children age 8 to 12. Instructor Anneliese Kuemmerle will teach participants about locally grown Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables and they will make healthy recipes using Jersey Fresh produce.
The fee is $10. Space is limited, therefore registration is required by July 16 at go.rutgers.edu/2yhaaozy.
Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3605 for additional information.
Crafters Wanted
for Sept. show
OCEAN CITY – St. John Lutheran Church of Ocean City, at 10th Street and Central Avenue, will host its fourth annual Craft Show and Bake Sale 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 13. This will be an indoor event. If interested in reserving a table visit StJohnLutheranOc.org or call (609) 399-0798.
Tabernacle Baptist
season services
OCEAN CITY – Tabernacle Baptist Church’s monthly services are held every second Sunday at 4 p.m. The following is Tabernacle Baptist’s worship services and fellowship activities for the remainder of 2025:
– 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, worship service
– 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, “Temple Stretch,” Egoscue Method
– 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, worship service
– Noon Saturday, Oct. 11, BBQ Fundraiser
– 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, worship service
– 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19, worship service
– 4 pm. Sunday, Dec. 14, worship service.
Walking Club
back in action
OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Walking Club is back in action this year and invites everybody to join weekly walks on the Ocean City Boardwalk on Friday mornings.
People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to meet outside the Ocean City Music Pier at 9 a.m. each Friday to walk the Boardwalk. The Ocean City Healthy Living Advisory Council created the group as a way for people to get healthy and meet new friends.
A round trip covering the length of the Boardwalk is (4.9 miles), but participants are welcome to stop at any point along the route. Starting on June 20, the start time of the weekly walks will move to 8 a.m. The HLAC asks everybody to grab a coffee or water and “don’t forget to bring your smile.”
For more information, email recreation@ocnj.us.
Monthly Grief
Support Group
OCEAN CITY – St. John Lutheran Church, Journey Hospice, and The Shores – a United Methodist Communities (UMC) Community – are partnering to offer a monthly Grief Support Group for adults who are navigating the difficult journey of loss.
The group provides a safe, welcoming and confidential space where individuals can come together to share their experiences, listen, and support one another. Whether someone has recently experienced a loss or is still processing grief from years past, all are welcome.
Meetings will be held in person on the second Wednesday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at St. John Lutheran Church, 1001 Central Ave.
“Grief is a deeply personal experience, but it doesn’t have to be experienced alone,” group coordinators Beth Gebhart and Michele Musto said. “This group is about honoring each person’s
journey and finding hope in shared understanding.”
The group is free and open to all adults, regardless of background or faith.
For more information, please contact Beth Gebhart, (609) 760-6073, bgebhart@lsmnj.org; or Michele Musto, (609) 391-6321, meroclani@umcommunities.org
Women’s Day at
S. Seaville Camp
SEAVILLE – The Women’s Auxiliary of South Seaville Camp Meeting is sponsoring its 75th annual Women’s Day Thursday, July 24.
The camp is at 188 Dennisville Road, South Seaville. This event is free and open to all. Festivities begin at noon and include cottage tours, Little Acorn Shoppe, history wagon ride, bake sale and basket raffle, prayer tent and ministry displays. Rest in the shade of the trees, cool off with lemonade at the Bell Tower or visit the ice cream parlor.
An inspirational program will be held in the open-air Tabernacle at 2:30 p.m. The Rev. Robin Parker will be speaking on the theme of “4 Truths and a Lie.” She will help explore truths from Scripture, deception from the enemy, and encourage participants to live by faith. There will be a special white dove release following the program.
Dinner will be served in Grove Hall at 4:30 and 5:45 p.m. for $12 per person. The deadline for reservations is July 18 by calling Barb Whitlock at (609) 472-4687.
Grief Support Group
in Somers Point
SOMERS POINT – All are welcome to a Grief Support Group that meets at 6:30 p.m. the first and third Monday of each month at Grace Lutheran Church, 11 East Dawes Ave., Somers Point.
Group and one-on-one support will be available.
For information call (609) 927-3082.
Depression and
Anxiety Group
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 with anxiety and/or depression. The group meets 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays at at the Atlantic Community Wellness Center, 1125 Atlantic Ave., Suite 617, Atlantic City. Offered by The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County. For more information, call (609) 652-3800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
Monday Meditation
& Stretching sessions
GALLOWAY – The Atlantic Community Wellness Center provides a weekly 15-to-20-minute meditation, follow-up discussion, and light stretch at 11:30 a.m. Mondays.
Newcomers and people with all levels of experience in meditation are welcome. No cost to participate. Provided by The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County, 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Road, Suite 8, Galloway. For more information, call (609) 652-3800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
Reduce stress with
Coffee Talk
ATLANTIC CITY – The Atlantic Community Wellness Centers hosts a weekly gratitude-themed group at 11 a.m. Saturdays. Called “Coffee Talk,” the group is a one-hour meeting during which participants discuss, enhance, and deepen their practice of gratitude, which is shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase optimism.
Meets weekly at the Atlantic Community Wellness Center, 1125 Atlantic Ave., Suite 617, Atlantic City. Coffee is provided at no cost; pastries/snacks are provided once a month. For more information, call (609) 652-3800 or email jgimbel@mhanj.org.
Too Much Stuff
group meets
Atlantic City – Twice monthly, a group is offered to individuals who live with clutter challenges and “too much stuff.” Strategies, education, support, goal-setting, and other related topics will be covered.
There is no cost to participants. Meetings are at noon the first and third Saturdays of each month at the Atlantic Wellness Center, 1125 Atlantic Ave., Suite 617, Atlantic City. Offered by The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County. Call (609) 652-3800 or jgimbel@mhanj.org. *Upcoming dates are May 3, May 17.
Grief Support Group
in Ocean City
OCEAN CITY – The Grief Support Group, open to any adult who is grieving the death of a loved one, is invited to attend a safe and caring gathering at 6:30 p.m. every other Tuesday year-round at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, corner of Eighth Street and Central Avenue, Ocean City.
There is no need to be a church member or from Ocean City to attend. “It is a time to share your story, to tell of your grief and talk of your loved one. It is a place where you may express your feelings, without judgment, nor fixing. Everything is confidential and you, as well, are privileged and entrusted with the heart-felt stories of others. No matter when your loss, it is healing to acknowledge its place in your life.”
For questions or more information contact Jane Taylor at (609) 412-1855 or by email at janeht927@yahoo.com.
Mental health
support groups
NAMI Connection is a free recovery support group for adults (18+) living with a mental health condition. Participants gain the support of peers who understand their experience and gain insight into others’ challenges and successes. The group encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense of community.
NAMI Family Support Group is a free peer-led group for family members, caregivers and loved ones (18+) of individuals living with a mental illness. Participants gain the support of peers who understand their experience and gain insight into others’ challenges and successes.
Schedule:
— 7 to 8:30 p.m. June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8, Family Support Group, St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point.
— 7 to 8:30 p.m. June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8, Somers Point, Connections, St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point.
— 7 to 8:30 p.m. May 22, June 26, July 24, Aug. 28, Sept. 25, Oct. 23, Nov. 20, Dec. 18, Cape May County Library, Cape May Court House, Family Support Group.
Visit namiacm.org or call (609) 741-5125 for more information.
Shiloh Baptist
services Sundays
OCEAN CITY – Pastor Paul extends a heartfelt invitation to join in the 11 a.m. Sunday service at Shiloh Baptist Church, 7E Seventh St., Ocean City.
Bible class is at 10 a.m.
“We would be honored to have you with us as we come together to worship and share in fellowship. Shiloh is where everyone’s life matters and every heart belongs.”
Overeaters Anonymous
Overeaters Anonymous of Central Jersey invites people who have problems with food to join them for its 12-step recovery program. There are in-person meetings in Ocean County and Zoom meetings as well.
Visit oa-centraljersey.org for more information.
History museum
seeks volunteers
OCEAN CITY — The Ocean City Historical Museum is seeking volunteers to serve as welcome desk greeters (including gift shop sales) and as museum docents. Training will be provided.
The museum is located within the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Ave. Those interested in volunteering or learning more should call (609) 399-1801 or email info@ocnjmuseum.org.
Join Submarine
Association
SOMERS POINT – South Jersey has a Submarine Association.
Service members who served on a U.S. Military submarine are invited to join the Jersey Sub Association. Call Commander Tom Innocente at (609) 927-4358 for more information
Call for free Family
Crisis Intervention
Families who are experiencing serious difficulties in managing the behavior of children 10 to 17 years old for whom they are responsible can seek assistance through the Atlantic County Juvenile/Family Crisis Intervention Unit (FCIU).
FCIU is a legally mandated program that is available 24 hours a day to intercede in family conflicts and help strengthen the family unit. Its services include short-term crisis stabilization, family assessment, case management, treatment planning and referrals to appropriate community-based services.
FCIU is available to meet in-person by appointment with youth and their families from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 101 Shore Road in Northfield. Appointments can also be conducted by phone or as a virtual meeting to help de-escalate and resolve family conflicts.
Call (609) 645-5861 or email family_crisis@aclink.org. Referral forms are available at atlantic_county.org.
Free screening
for depression
Online screening for depression and postpartum depression is available at mhaac.info/screening.
The confidential screening involves 10 questions related to topics such as sleep habits, appetite, concentration and level of energy. Resources and recommendations are offered at the end of the survey.
Anyone who wants to take the screening but needs assistance can call The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County at (609) 652-3800. Staff are available throughout the year by phone or by appointment. No cost, no insurance needed.
Angelic Health
seeks volunteers
Angelic Health Palliative & Hospice Care is asking the public to share its time and compassion with those near the end of their journey.
Visit angelic.health, email volunteer@angelic.health or call (609) 432-0073 for information.
