U.T. Arts Team
Zoom meeting
UPPER TOWNSHIP – The next meeting of the Upper Township Arts Team will be 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18, via Zoom.
The meeting will continue the 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 encouraged to participate on these Zoom sessions to learn more and share suggestions.
Registration for the Zoom link is at https://tinyurl.com/UTArts18Sep
The Upper Arts Team is functioning as a subcommittee of both the Upper Township Business Association and the Upper Township Sustainable Jersey Green Team.
For more information or questions, contact Ralph Cooper at (609) 464-0920 or UpperCapeSustainability@gmail.com
Suicide Prevention
Month speaker:
Survivor Kevin Hines
OCEAN CITY – September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and the Ocean City Community Wellness Alliance invites the public to hear internationally recognized speaker and author Kevin Hines share his inspiring journey of survival and resilience.
Two years after he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 19, Kevin attempted to take his own life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. One of only 40
people to survive the fall, he is the only Golden Gate Bridge jump survivor who is actively spreading the message of living mentally healthy around the globe.
Hines will speak at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, in the lecture hall at the Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Ave. The event is free and open to the public. A live Zoom option is available.
It is presented by the alliance with support from the Ocean City Education Foundation, the library and the City of Ocean City.
Shore Physicians
has two flu clinics
SOMERS POINT – Shore Physicians Group (SPG) is offering two convenient drive-through flu vaccine clinics – 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at SPG’s Somers Point Primary Care office at 401 Bethel Road and 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at SPG’s Northfield office at 2605 Shore Road.
Flu vaccines will be available for adults age 18 and older, with specific vaccines for patients 65+. Individuals at high risk are encouraged to discuss flu vaccination with their primary care provider before attending.
Although pharmacies began offering flu shots as early as August, the CDC recommends vaccination in September and October for the best protection throughout flu season.
SPG patients can schedule their appointments by calling (609) 365-6200. Each appointment is scheduled in five-minute blocks to keep the process fast and convenient.
This year’s clinics are for the flu vaccine only. COVID-19 boosters or combination flu/COVID vaccines are not available at these events; patients seeking those options should contact their local pharmacy.
Seaville Fire Rescue
Craft Show, Chinese Auction
SEAVILLE – Seaville Fire & Rescue will hold its Summer’s Last Fling Craft Show and Chinese Auction 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, in the social hall at 36 Rt. 50, Seaville.
There are 17 select and varied vendors and a snack bar. The Chinese Auction features items from local businesses and vendors. The drawing will start at 1:30 p.m. and patrons don’t have to be present to win. Process support the all-volunteer Seaville Fire & Rescue, Station 19.
Chat with Trooper
In Marmora
MARMORA – The Upper Township Business Association is sponsoring Chat with a Trooper at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, at the Wawa, 30 South Shore Road, Marmora.
Inviting the public to attend are Kristina Gibson, Wawa assistant general manager; Thomas Campolo, New Jersey State Police Woodbine Station commander; and Steve Zellers, UTBA president. There will be free coffee and conversation.
To submit questions for the troopers, go to https://tinyurl.com/NJTrooperQuestions.
Huge yard sale
at Risley Homestead
NORTHFIELD – A huge yard sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, will benefit the Atlantic County Historical Society.
It will be at the historic Risley Homestead, 8 Virginia Ave., Nortthfield.
All items are priced to sell. Donations welcome.
Free tours of the homestead (circa 1790).
Fur, Feathers
and Scales
PETERSBURG — The Cape May County Library System Children’s Department presents Fur, Feathers and Scales, a homeschool event led by Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge.
They will bring artifacts, animals and their knowledge to provide an exciting presentation from 10 to 11 a.m. Sept. 19 at the Upper Township branch.
Registration is not required. Call (609) 463-6350, ext.300, or email children@cmclibrary.org for more information.
Grief Support Group
At Grace Lutheran
SOMERS POINT – A Grief Support Group will meet at 6:30 p.m. the first and third Monday of each month at Grace Lutheran Church, 11 E. Dawes Ave., Somers Point.
Meetings begin Sept. 15.
Group and one-on-one peer support will be available.
Former detective
at AARP meeting
OCEAN CITY – Fraud scams and related crimes are the topic at the Sept. 19 Ocean City AARP meeting at the Ocean City Free Public Library.
AARP will host Barry Bittenmaster, former detective with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office who has investigated and prosecuted most types of fraud scams and related crimes, most notably the Charles Cullen “Angel of Death” serial killer case in which a registered Nurse was convicted of killing 27 patients.
Bittenmaster now represents AARP Speaker Bureau, and will discuss common types of fraud scams that are affecting seniors, the methods fraudsters use to commit the scams, the ways in which victims are usually contacted, and how to avoid becoming a victim.
The meeting is at 1 p.m. in Room 110 at the library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
Volunteers will be collecting the annual $5 dues. If not a member, please see one of the volunteers to join. The public is invited.
Pancake breakfast
in Somers Point
SOMERS POINT – Somers Point Fire Department No. 2 is having an all-you-can-eat breakfast 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 21, at the firehouse, 20 W. New Jersey Ave.
The menu is pancakes, waffles, sausage, bacon, scrambled eggs, coffee and orange juice. Cost is $12 for adults and $5 for kids.
Masonic Lodge
pancake breakfast
OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Masonic Lodge No. 171 F.&A.M. is having a pancake breakfast starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the lodge, 940 Wesley Ave.
Breakfast includes specialty pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, coffee and juice. Cost is $12 for adults, $8 for children and $10 for veterans. Walk-ins welcome.
Proceeds benefit the lodge restoration fund.
Garden Club
Meets Oct. 7
SOMERS POINT – The Green Thumb Garden Club of Somers Point will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, in the Somers Point Community Center. 22-98 N. Ambler Road.
Come learn about essential oils and aroma therapy presented by Ginny Swift, a local art teacher and master gardener. All are welcome to attend. This event is free of charge, but donations from guests are gratefully accepted and support the club’s Somers Point beautification efforts.
Victorian High Tea
in Cape May
CAPE MAY – Cape Regional Auxiliary presents a Victorian High Tea from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean Ave., Cape May, to benefit the Claire C. Brodesser Surgery Center.
Guest speakers are Joanna Carrocino, FACHE, president and CEO, and Dr. David Cho, radiation oncologist.
Enjoy scones, finger sandwiches, desserts and a variety of teas and lemonade. (Cash bar available.) There will be door prizes, raffles and prizes for best bonnets. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month; there will be a special raffle for breast cancer survivors.
Cost for the tea is $60 a person. Purchase tickets online at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2025-high-tea. No tickets will be sold at the door.
Note: Zeffy will ask for 17 percent donation: to avoid the charge, select “Other” in the drop-down window and enter 0.
Oktoberfest at
Grace Lutheran
SOMERS POINT – Grace Lutheran Church in Somers Point has scheduled its Oktoberfest for 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at the church.
For information and tickets, call (609) 927-3082.
Grace Lutheran is at 11 E. Dawes Ave., Somers Point.
Shekinah Chapter
Fashion Show
MARMORA – On Oct. 15, Shekinah Chapter will hold its annual Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Tuckahoe Inn, Marmora. Fashions are by Talk of the Walk of Atlantic City. There will be a basket auction, with proceeds distributed to charity.
Tickets to the event at $50 per person which include choice of crab cakes or prime rib. For tickets and information, please contact Pat Collins at (609) 602-2152, or via email JJPLC11@gmail.com. No tickets will be sold at the door. Limit 100 attendees.
The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong. With more than a million members worldwide, the organization shares with the Masonic Fraternity a desire for self improvement and service to others. It makes support of local, state, and national charities a priority, and work through various projects to earn monies to contribute to those in need.
Cocktail reception
with sketch artists
OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Arts Center is have a fall Cocktail Reception Fundraiser 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Adelene’s in the Port-O-Call Hotel, 15th Street and Boardwalk, Ocean City.
In a tribute to an old boardwalk tradition, there will be sketch artists offering live portrait sketches. Artists Tim Smith and Tony Troy, with their own distinct styles, will do sketches for an additional $20 fee.
The cost of $50 per person includes hors d’oevres, signature drinks, beer and wine.
To purchase tickets online go to oceancityartscenter.org.
Tickets sale for
Author’s Luncheon
OCEAN CITY – The Friends and Volunteers of the Ocean City Free Public Library announced the upcoming Author’s Luncheon featuring author Fiona Davis will be Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Flanders Hotel, Ocean City.
Assigned seating will begin at 11:30 a.m.
Tickets were available online only beginning at 6 p.m. Sept. 5 at https://oceancity.biliocommons.com/v2/events. Cost is $40. Limit is 10 tickets per person.
More information can be found at www.friendsvolunteersocfpl.com.
For questions email fvoc@oceancitylibrary.org.
Soroptimist seeks
award applicants
Soroptimist International of Cape May County is seeking applicants for its 2025-26 “Live Your Dream” Education and Training Awards for Women.
This year there are three awards being offered; two for $2,000 and one for $2,500.
The awards are presented to county women who provide primary financial support to their dependents (children and family) and who are enrolled or accepted in a vocational/skills training or undergraduate degree program. Recipients are able to use the awards to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education such as books, child care and transportation.
Applications can be found at soroptimist.org and sicmc.com. Deadline for applications is Nov. 15. Call (845) 800-9977 or email ambegany@gmail.com for more information.
‘Pint Knight’ at
Slacktide Brewery
CLERMONT – Join Knights of Columbus Council 9113 for the first ever “Pint Knight” at Slacktide Brewery, 1879 Route 9, Clermont, 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3.
Fun will be on tap along with raffles, food truck fare and live
music by local favorite Dean Dunlevy, featuring rock favorites from
the past and present. Slacktide Brewery will donate $1 from every pint sold to Knights of Columbus Council 9113.
This will allow the Knights to continue sending care packages to our military troops overseas, helping homeless youth at the Atlantic City Covenant House and providing funding for their annual Christmas Holiday Helping Hand program.
Knights of Columbus Council 9113 meets at 7:30 p.m. the second Wednesday of every month at Saint Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Marmora in the church hall.
Shore Physicians
‘Be Well Connected’
Community Breakfast
LINWOOD – Shore Physicians Group invites the community to a free breakfast and educational event 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Sept. 25, at Linwood Country Club at 500 Shore Road, Linwood.
Part of the group’s ongoing “Be Well Connected” series, the event will offer a morning of health, learning, and fun, along with opportunities to connect with local businesses.
Guests will gain valuable insights on living their best life as they age. Megan Mahon McQuarrie, MD, C.A.Q.S.M., primary care physician at Shore Physicians Group’s Ocean City office, will discuss strategies for healthy aging, including preventive care, nutrition, and physical activity. Kristy Liekfet, APN, from the Somers Point Primary Care office, will share tips for effectively managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and COPD. The program will conclude with a chair exercise and stretching session led by Debbie Best, personal trainer and Silver Sneakers instructor at Greate Bay Racquet & Fitness, highlighting the importance of staying active at any age.
In addition to educational presentations, guests can meet local businesses that support healthy, vibrant living, including Kelly Loder Travel, Passion Vines, Island Waterpark at Showboat, Proshot Pickleball, Gateway Playhouse, the Auxiliary of Shore Medical Center, Maez Wellness and Medical Spa, Greate Bay Racquet & Fitness, and Pet Wants.
RSVP is requested by emailing wellness@shoremedicalcenter.org or calling (609) 365-5257. Attendees are encouraged to register early and enjoy this engaging morning designed to inspire wellness, connection, and active, healthy living.
Opera dinner
will be Oct. 21
SOMERS POINT – The Somers Point Unique Experiences Club is proud to host the third Opera Dinner at 7 p.m. Oct. 21 at Gregory’s Restaurant, 900 Shore Road, Somers Point.
This event will feature three professional award-winning opera singers accompanied by a noted keyboardist performing some of opera most famous arias. Feature artist include Julie-Ann Green, Grammy winning soprano winner of the Leontyne Price Vocal Arts Competition; Crystal Charles, critically acclaimed mezzo soprano who has performed throughout the northeast; Justin Gonzalez, tenor, who has performed in the Catherdral of Notre Dame in Paris; and Joseph Krupa, a keyboardist with a a master degree in piano performance from the University of Calgary (Alberta).
The evening will also feature a four-course Italian dinner. Cost is $80 per person (tax and gratuity included). Seating is limited. For more information go to Spunique@weebly.com or call (609) 233-1820. For reservation send a check to the Somers Point Unique Experience Club PO Box 564, Somers Point, NJ 08244. Make sure to include phone number and email address.
Dog Fun Day at
4-H Fairgrounds
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — The inaugural 4-H Dog Fun Day is set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 21 rain or shine at the Cape May County 4-H Fairgrounds, 355 Court House–South Dennis Road in Cape May Court House. The event is free, including parking, and is open to the public. Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash, well-mannered and current on shots.
The 4-H Dog Fun Day will include a 1-mile walk, demonstrations, a variety of vendors, food trucks, contests and more. Vendors include Made by Real Hands knitted and crochet items, Hound Wagging Dog Treats all natural treats, pony rides and petting zoo by Edge of the Woods Farm and Happy Daisy Face Painting. Food trucks will provide refreshments for sale.
Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3617, or visit capemay.njaes.rutgers.edu for more information.
Functional
Foods: Coffee
OCEAN CITY — Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County Family and Community Health Sciences (FCHS) will present the program “Functional Foods: Coffee” from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 30 at the Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
Anneliese Kuemmerle, FCHS Program Associate II for Cape May County, will share information about coffee, including plant origin and historical, processing and preparation.
It will introduce participants to the current research and health benefits of coffee and identify the recommendations for including coffee in a healthful plant-based diet.
The class is free but advanced registration is requested at go.rutgers.edu/omfd3svu. Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3617, or visit capemay.njaes.rutgers.edu for more information.
Theatre Company
Halloween Party
OCEAN CITY – The Greater Ocean City Theatre Company invites the public to a spooktacular evening of fun at this year’s “Day of the Dead” Halloween Costume Party 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at The Flanders Hotel.
Join OCTC for a night filled with dancing, drinks, special activities, and a delicious buffet dining experience. Costume prizes will be awarded for the best group, male, female, couple, and more. This event is exclusively for adults aged 21 and older.
Purchase tickets early and save! Tickets are priced at $85 until Oct. 1 and $95 thereafter. RSVP required by Oct. 24. Sponsorship packages are available for a donation of $300 or $600, which include two tickets and special recognition of various levels at the event. For tickets, visit oceancitytheatrecompany.com or mail a payment (made payable to OCTC) to 1501 West Ave., Ocean City, NJ 08226.
For questions, please contact (609)_ 398-1118.
Eat What You
Grow Oct. 7, 16
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) of Cape May County Family & Community Health Sciences and Agriculture & Natural Resources Departments will present the workshop “Eat What You Grow: Fall Session” from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 7 and from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County, 355 Court House-South Dennis Road.
Presenters Anneliese Kuemmerle, FCHS Program Associate II, and Jen Sawyer Caraballo, ANR Program Associate II, will share how to grow fresh fruits and vegetables and what to do with the harvests.
The public is invited to sign up for individual classes at $10 per class. Visit go.rutgers.edu/dchiq28i for the Oct. 7 class and go.rutgers.edu/kvqyg514 for the Oct. 16 class. Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3617, or visit capemay.njaes.rutgers.edu for more information.
Lunch & Learn:
Mediterranean Diet
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 “Mediterranean Diet” from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Oct. 9.
Presenter Anneliese Kuemmerle, Program Associate II, FCHS, will provide information about the Mediterranean Diet, which has been associated with longer and healthier lives. The diet is based on countries around the Mediterranean Sea that encourage healthy food, activity and social ties.
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.
Register in advance at go.rutgers.edu/sk7dgtes. Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3617, or visit capemay.njaes.rutgers.edu for more information.
Lunch & Learn:
Financial Wellness
OCEAN CITY — Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County Family and Community Health Sciences (FCHS) program will present the workshop “The 8 Dimensions of Wellness: Financial Wellness” from noon to 1 p.m. Oct. 14 at the Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
Presenter Chris Zellers, FCHS educator/assistant professor for Cape May County, will share her knowledge.
The class is free but advanced registration is requested at go.rutgers.edu/ewa9vbl1. Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3617, or visit capemay.njaes.rutgers.edu for more information.
Culinary herbs
workshop Oct. 22
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources will host the workshop “Flavors from the Garden: Growing and Using Culinary Herbs” from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 22, at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County, 355 Court House-South Dennis Road in Cape May Court House.
Presenters Claudia Gil Arroyo, County Agent III, Agriculture and Natural Resources, and Jen Sawyer Caraballo, ANR Program Associate II will share how to identify herbs, how to use them and how to grow and harvest them.
The cost is $10. Register in advance at go.rutgers.edu/ls0bw4t2. Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3617, or visit capemay.njaes.rutgers.edu for more information.
Deaf Awareness
and Resources
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — The Cape May County Library System will be hosting Deaf Awareness & Resources: What You Should Know, presented by Tiffany Narciso, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Cape May Court House branch.
The presentation will focus on deaf awareness, American Sign Language and the richness of deaf culture through personal stories and visual learning strategies.
Narciso will share valuable resources available in New Jersey for the deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind and deaf disabled communities.
Registration is requested and will open Sept. 10. Call (609) 463-6350, ext.700, or email adultevents@cmclibrary.org for more information.
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:
– 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.
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, 7 E. 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.”
Morning Worship Services are held at 11 a.m. Sundays.
Trinity United
monthly lunch
MARMORA — Trinity United Methodist Church, at 20 North Shore Road in Upper Township, hosts a community luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. the third Wednesday of every month.
The menu changes monthly. Everyone is welcome. Call (609) 214-0206 for more information.
Grants available
for arts, history
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — The Cape May County Division of Culture & Heritage has announced that Letters of Intent are being accepted for the 2026 Art & History Regrant Program.
The funding opportunity is open to county nonprofit organizations seeking support for general operating expenses, special projects (such as a single event) or general programming (such as a series of events or activities) taking place in 2026.
Funding is made possible through partnerships with the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, the New Jersey Historical Commission and the Cape May County Board of County Commissioners.
Letters of Intent are due Sept. 5.; invitations to apply are expected to be sent shortly after review. Applications are due by Oct. 10.
Visit cmcculgture.net for the Letter of Intent form and full grant guidelines. Call (609) 465-1066 are email culture@capemaycountynj.gov for more information
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. Sept. 25, Oct. 23, Nov. 20, Dec. 18, Cape May County Library, Cape May Court House, Family Support Group.
— 7 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8, Family Support Group, St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point.
— 7 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8, Somers Point, Connections, St. Joseph Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point.
Visit namiacm.org or call (609) 741-5125 for more information.
Dog training
starts Sept. 23
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — The Cape May County Dog Obedience Training Club is offering a six-week training course for puppies and beginners starting Sept. 23
The cost is $95 for six one-hour classes in Cape May Court House. Download registration at cmcdotc.com or call (609) 425-1096 for more information.
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 8 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.. 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.
Tree Fruits and
Table Grapes
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources has scheduled the workshop Growing Tree Fruits and Table Grapes in the Home Garden for 6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 8 at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County, 355 Courthouse-South Dennis Road.
The workshop is part of the 2025 Garden & Grow series, whose goal is to teach locals how to improve or expand their home gardens in new ways.
Presenter Hemant Gohil, Agriculture and Natural Resources County Agent II, Gloucester County, RCE, will share cultural practices for growing peaches, apples and table grapes; common problems faced by the home orchardists in growing tree fruits; and peach and table grape varieties suited to the local climate.
The cost is $10. Register in advance at go.rutgers.edu/vd42ie9r. Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3607, or email capemayag@njaes.rutgers.edu for more information.
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
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.
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.
