Breakfast with Santa
at Masonic Lodge
OCEAN CITY – Enjoy Breakfast with Santa starting at 8 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Ocean City Masonic Lodge No. 171 F.&A.M., 940 Wesley Ave.
Breakfast includes specialty pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, coffee and juice. Cost is $12 for adults, $10 for veterans and $8 for children. Proceeds benefit the Masonic Lodge Building Fund.
Consider bringing an unwrapped toy to be giving to the children at Branches of Cape May County.
Sea Isle Toy and
Food Drive to begin
SEA ISLE CITY – Mayor Leonard Desiderio’s 32nd annual Holiday Toy and Food Drive will begin Thanksgiving Weekend.
Donations of non-perishable food items (including items for holiday dinners) and unwrapped toys can be brought to City Hall, 233 JFK Boulevard; Crest Savings Bank, 4415 Landis Ave.; Dee’s Hair Salon, 6300 Landis Ave.; First Bank of Sea Isle City, 4301 Landis Ave.; KIX Package Goods, 63rd Street; Mrs. Brizzle’s Buns & Deli, 4601 Landis Ave.; Rick’s Breakfast House, 6112 Landis Ave.; Sands Department Store, 6208 Landis Ave.; and the Sea Isle City Welcome Center, 300 JFK Boulevard.
Gift cards and monetary donations will also be appreciated and can be mailed or hand delivered to the Mayor’s Office at City Hall, 233 JFK Boulevard, Sea Isle City, NJ 08243.
The last day to donate items is Dec. 16. Prior to Christmas Day, the Mayor and his “Elves” will personally deliver all the donated food and toys that are collected to families in need – just in time for holiday meals and celebrations.
For more information, call (609) 263-4461, ext. 1245.
Christmas Parade
Dec. 7 in Somers Point
SOMERS POINT – The Somers Point Historical Society will be Hosting the annual Christmas & Holiday Parade at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. This is the first time it’s being held on a Saturday.
The route begins at Dawes Avenue School and then proceeds down Shore Road to the Somers Point Historical Society and City Hall.
There are more than 50 participating groups this year that include The Greater Kensington String Band, Cape May County String Band, Miss New Jersey Teen America, lots of floats, and of course Santa. Children will be invited to visit with Santa at the Somers Point Historical Society, 745 Shore Road, at the conclusion of the parade. The museum will be open and decorated.
Tabernacle Baptist
festive weekend
OCEAN CITY – Please join Tabernacle Baptist Church at the corner of West Avenue and Eighth Street, Ocean City, for a festive weekend, Dec. 7-8.
Visit as a part of the Ocean City second annual Historical Home Tour from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, and purchase some delicious baked goods. Complete the weekend and join the congregation at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, for worship service and fellowship.
Jersey Shore Pops
concert Dec. 15
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Jersey Shore Pops is scheduled to perform “Celtic Christmas” starring Irish tenor David Shannon at 3 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Middle Township Performing Arts Center.
Tickets are $40 for adults and $25 for children age 6 to 12. Those older than 60, military veterans, active-duty service personnel and persons with disabilities get a $5 discount. Call (609) 628-4544 or visit jerseyshorepops.org.
The PAC is located at 212 Bayberry Drive in Cape May Court House, off Exit 10 of the Garden State Parkway.
Cape Shore choral
Christmas concert
OCEAN CITY – Cape Shore Chorale and director of music Scott J. Breiner present “Sounds of the Season,” a concert of traditional Christmas music in familiar and new arrangements at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Bay Avenue and 30th Street, Ocean City.
Admission is free and open to the public. A free-will offering will be accepted, and refreshments will be provided after the concert.
Christian Women’s
Christmas luncheon
OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Christian Women’s Connection will hold their Christmas luncheon at noon Wednesday, Dec. 11, at The Flanders Hotel in Ocean City. There will be entertainment and a Christmas drama.
For reservations, call (609) 628-3157 by Dec. 1.
Angelus Chorus has
free holiday concerts
MARMORA – The Angelus Chorus, a South Jersey Shore community singing group of 70 voices, invites the public to any of its free 2024 holiday concerts:
– 7 p.m. Dec. 1, Cape May Methodist Church, 635 Washington Ave., Cape May.
– 7 p.m. Dec. 4, Cape May Convention Center, 714 Beach Ave., Cape May.
– 7 p.m. Dec. 5, Resurrection Church, 200 Tuckahoe Road, Marmora.
– 3 p.m. Dec. 8, St. Paul’s Church, 9910 Third Ave., Stone Harbor.
Tickets on sale for
Jolly Trolley Tour
OCEAN CITY – Tickets are on sale now for a new holiday trolley tour geared toward families with young children.
The Jolly Trolley Lights Tour Dec. 17 will include a tour of Ocean City homes decorated for the holidays, a photo with Santa and a Christmas craft project. Participants are encouraged to dress warmly in their pajamas and enjoy hot cocoa and other treats.
Two tours are scheduled: 5 to 7 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. They will be staged from the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue.
Space is limited, so get tickets for $30 per person by visiting ocnj.us/jollytrolley.
Dessert Theater
At Ventnor Coffee
VENTNOR – The South Jersey Players’ annual fundraiser presents Dessert Theater at Ventnor Coffee, 108 N. Dorset Ave., Ventnor, at 2 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8.
“How Do I Love Thee?” By Tom Chin of Ocean City and Edward Shakespeare’s play “Trouble in Ocean City” are among the plays and monologues being performed. Live music on guitar by Joey McGowan.
Tickets are $20 per person which includes coffee or tea and homemade baked goods along with the show. For reservations, call Marlene May at (347) 920-6399. Limited seating.
Comedy-improv
show is Dec. 8
SOMERS POINT – S.P.L.I.T. (Somers Point Laughter, Improv and Theatrics) is having a comedy-improv show Sunday, Dec. 8, at Studio;Space, 112 Woodland Ave, Somers Point.
Door opens at 6:30 p.m. for the 7-8:30 p.m. show. Admission is $12. Light refreshments and snacks are complimentary but donations are welcome.
This show will be unpredictable and may include adult humor, some of which may not be appropriate for children and may not appeal to the easily offended. To purchase tickets email paul@foerfront.com or call (443) 852-2163. Advance payments may be made by Paypal ir at the door in cash. Reservations suggested.
Holiday show at
Sea Isle library
SEA ISLE CITY – The Cape May County Library Children’s Department is hosting “Happy Holidays with Mr. Jon” 10 to 10:45 a.m. Dec. 18 at the Sea Isle City branch.
It is an interactive and engaging show featuring holiday musical fun, so put on dancing shoes and join in. This program is best suited for ages 0-5 and their loved ones, but all are welcome.
Registration is not required. Feel free to drop-in to join the fun. For more information, please contact the Children’s Department at (609) 463-6350 ext.300 or children@cmclibrary.org.
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.”
Calling talent for
‘Talent Showcase
By the Bay’ Jan. 12
SOMERS POINT – The Somers Point Arts Commission is seeking talented people for a “Talent Showcase by the Bay” at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12, at Gateway Playhouse, 738 Bay Avenue, Somers Point.
Individuals, duos, or groups of three to 10 are welcome to apply. Participants must be 15 years or older and all kinds of talent are encouraged – singers, musicians, dancers, family friendly comics, magicians, etc.
This is free for participants, but they must apply no later than Dec. 22 by going to somersptarts.weebly.com for application information.
Environmental
Steward program
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County will offer the Rutgers Environmental Steward Program starting in the new year.
A Rutgers Environmental Steward is a volunteer who is trained in the environmental issues affecting New Jersey and works to help solve local problems.
County residents who are interested in improving the environment can learn how to create a conservation project in their community by joining the volunteer program that helps members of the public learn specific steps leading to a positive effect on local ecosystem.
Weekly classes taught by leading researchers from Rutgers, government agencies and the nonprofit sector will take place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays starting Jan. 21, 2025.
About 11 online and five in-person sessions will be held along with field trips to environmentally significant sites. Topics will include climate change, solid waste, recycling, soil health, alternative energy, water quality, habitat conservation, pollinator protection and environmental policy.
Participants will be required to complete a 60-hour project in their community to become certified. The cost for the program is $300 before Dec. 31 and $325 starting Jan. 1. Registration is required by Jan. 17. Visit envirostewards.rutgers.edu to register or or for more information about the program.
Call (609) 465-5115, ext. 3607, or email capemayag@njaes.rutgers.edu for more information about agriculture and natural resources in Cape May County.
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.
Holiday bus trip
to New York City
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE – The Cape May County 4-H Program Advisory Council is hosting the third annual 4-H Holiday Bus Trip to New York City on Saturday, Dec. 14.
The bus trip is open to the public and only costs $60 for transportation to and from the city. While in the city, participants will be on their own to see a show, shop, visit a museum, or just walk around and enjoy the holiday sights.
The bus will depart from Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County, 355 Courthouse-South Dennis Road at 7 a.m. and leave New York City at 7 p.m.
Reserve a seat at https://tinyurl.com/2024-4-H-NYC-Bus-RSVP. For your convenience, pay using Venmo @Stephanie-Hoover-11, with cash, or write a check payable to the CMC 4-H Program Advisory Council. Payment can be dropped off to the RCE of Cape May County Office or mailed to CMC 4-H, 4 Moore Rd, DN 703, Cape May CH, NJ 08210. Seat is not officially reserved until payment is received.
For additional information, please call Stephanie at (609) 780-3205 or email scalesandtails4h@gmail.com. All proceeds from the trip directly benefit Cape May County 4-H youth.
Grief Support Group
in Somers Point
SOMERS POINT – All are welcome to a Grief Support Group that meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month from October through January at Grace Lutheran Church, 11 East Dawes Ave., Somers Point.
“Whether you’ve lost a job, a loved one, health, relationships or a dream, we’re here to support you.” It is free and confidential small group care.
To reserve a spot call the church office at (609) 927-3082 or email office@gracelutheranspnj.comcastbiz.net.
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.
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. Dec. 9, Zoom, Family Support Group (meeting room unavailable in Somers Point for this meeting.
— 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 9, Zoom, Somers Point, Connections
— 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 19, Cape May County Library, Cape May Court House, Family Support Group.
Visit namiacm.org or call (609) 741-5125 for more information.
Vet to Vet Café
sets schedule
Angelic Health Veteran Support Services offers Vet-to-Vet Cafes to help connect military veterans to services, support and each other. It is free and open to all veterans.
— 1 to 2 p.m. Dec. 18: Angelic Health Community Outreach Center, 23 Peterson St., Millville
Men RSVP to John Prutting at (609) 464-8377 or jprutting@angelichospice.net.
Women RSVP to Philecia Howard at (609) 385-3934 or phoward@angelichospice.net.
Tuesday night
Dances in S.P.
SOMERS POINT – The Dance Society’s Tuesday night dances are at Somers Point Fire Co. No. 1’s hall at 447 Bethel Road, Somers Point.
The dances are 7:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays featuring live musical duos, light snacks, social dancing, mixers and some line dancing. Cost is $10. “Come out and kick up your heels or just listen to some good music,” a spokes-dancer said. For more information call Rita Voli at (609) 408-3619.
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.
