This week we will be interviewing most of the cast of the soon to be, late summer blockbuster, Greetings From the Shore. You won't find and Joker's, Dark Knight's or Iron Men in this one.  But you will find an endearing story about a girl named Jenny and her last summer working on the Jersey Shore.

For a small Independent film to get this kind of launch is not typical. From an email with Greg Chwerchak, co-producer, I found this rather interesting; "Few films get to rise out of the festival ranks to mainstream theaters, and we're excited to get our shot at a little grassroots success!"   I personally have seen the film via a private screening with Laura Bopp, my fiance and contributing writer to this blog.  We were both BLOWN AWAY by the film, the story, the cast, you name it. This story had the potential to rank itself with Sixteen  Candles or Dirty Dancing.   The other Main character in this movie is the Jersey Shore, visually you will be drawn in from the opening credits along the Garden State Parkway.  If you love the Shore, you NEED to see this film.  If you have friends who have never been to the Shore or understand why you love the Shore so much, make them go see it in the movies. Your 42 inch TV will never due it justice, it must be experienced on the big screen.

Check out the Review and Interview with Gabrielle Berberich we did eariler this spring.

Synopisis -

Still reeling from the death of her father, a young girl spends one last summer at the Jersey Shore before heading off to college. But when her plans fall apart, the girl stumbles into a mysterious world of Russian sailors, high-stakes gambling, and unexpected love.

Drawn from the coming-of-age experiences of writer Gabrielle Berberich, Greetings From The Shore is part memoir, part fairytale. The film was shot on an island off the coast of New Jersey, Barnegat Island, in the same seaside town where the real events occurred to Berberich. Like the setting, each character is an island. They are loners, dreamers brought together by fate for one chance summer. An ensemble cast brings these vivid characters to life, including Paul Sorvino, David Fumero, Jay O. Sanders, Lars Arentz-Hansen, and Kim Shaw in a debut performance. The film is an homage to coming-of-age classics like Dirty Dancing and Mystic Pizza, while in its own right, Greetings From The Shore is a unique and personal story. It's a love letter in the sand, a tribute to the Jersey Shore, and a postcard from summers past.

Tickets are available thru:

Movie Tickets.com

Fandango.com

Moviefone.com

Or Just show up at one of these fine theaters!

AMC Village Theatre 7 (New York, NY 10003)
UA Staten Island Stadium 16 (Staten Island, NY 10303)
Clearview Washington Township Cinema 3 (Washington Twp, NJ 07676)
Maplewood 6 (Maplewood, NJ 07040)
Regal Commerce Center Stadium 18 (North Brunswick, NJ 08902)
Loews New Brunswick 18 (New Brunswick, NJ, 08901)
AMC Monmouth Mall 15 (Eatontown, NJ 07724)
Clearview Strathmore 4 (Matawan, NJ 07747)
AMC Loews Brick Plaza 10 (Brick, NJ 08723)
Algonquin Arts Cinema (Manasquan, NJ 08736)
Regal Hadley Theatre Stadium 16 (South Plainfield, NJ 07080)
AMC Rockaway 16 (Rockaway, NJ 07866)
Clearview Cinema 12 Parsippany (Parsippany, NJ 07054)
Clearview Mansfield Cinema 14 (Hackettstown, NJ 07840)
Regal Washington Township 14 (Sewell, NJ 08080)
NA Showcase at the Ritz Center 16 (Voorhees, NJ 08043)
AMC Cherry Hill 24 (Cherry Hill, NJ 08002)
AMC Hamilton 24 (Trenton, NJ 08619)
Frank Theatres Towne Stadium 16 (Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08234)
NA Multiplex Cinemas at Town Center Plaza 15 (East Windsor, NJ 08520)

Petty Officer 3rd Class Robert Simpson (left), Petty Officer 3rd Class Tim Navarro (middle) and Petty Officer 3rd Class John Knight, rescue swimmers from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, N.J., carry a Best Day New Jersey participant on a surf board to the water Saturday, July 19, 2008, at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Monmouth, N.J.

For most people it was just a day at the beach on the New Jersey shore. The air was growing thick and heavy with the heat. Temperatures were quickly leaving the 90s and moving well over 100 degrees as late morning approached. The beach was packed with chairs and umbrellas. Everyone had staked their claim among the infinite expanse of sand, but for a group of 16 kids a special day was about to happen at a roped off area of the beach, where a tent stood tall among the sea of beach goers. Among the roped off section preparations had been made for their arrival. Surf boards, boogie boards, helmets, wetsuits, life jackets and kayaks awaited them. A newly established non-profit organization called Best Day New Jersey in Sea Bright, started by Petty Officer 3rd Class Lake Downham, a rescue swimmer at Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, N.J., and his fiancé Alexis Leaman were kicking off the first day of a free two-day beach camp for kids with special needs at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Monmouth, N.J., Saturday July 19.

"It's going to be great. The kids are going to get to go into the water and do some surfing," said Downham.

Kids and their parents arrived at the beach greeted by a host of volunteers. Many were members of Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City.

"I wouldn't plan to spend my weekend another way. I'm having a real good time," said Petty Officer 3rd Class Brian Tricarico, a member of Air Station Atlantic City.

After the kids did some stretching to prepare for the water sports, they ran through a beach obstacle course to get warmed up. After the course, they got dressed in wet suits, life jackets and helmets and headed for the water. For most of them this was going to be their first experience on a surf board.

"It's pretty emotional. The rescues I've had were pretty cool but these kids, I don't know, I like it lot. I like this more than anything," said Downham. The water is such a big part of my life. These kids love it. They have a great time. That's what it's all about."

Best Day is a spin off from the Ride a Wave Foundation based in Santa Cruz, Calif., founded in 1998 by former

Petty Officer 1st Class Karen Voorhees, a rescue swimmer with Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, N.J., plays in the surf Saturday, July 19, 2008, with a Best Day New Jersey participant at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Monmouth, N.J.

tandem surfing champion and lifeguard, Danny Cortazzo. Best Day co-founder and co-executive director Max Montgomery, former Ride a Wave volunteer, flew from California with other volunteers to assist Downham in the opening weekend of Best Day New Jersey."Communities rally around a wonderful cause, and here's a great thing to involve the Coast Guard with, a community of kids with disabilities," said Montgomery.  "It gives parents a chance to relax and know their kids are safe and are able to watch them and see the joy in their faces."

Downham says their goal is to get the New Jersey community involved. Since he's an active duty military member he eventually will have to transfer. He hopes the program will eventually run its self."It's blowing up. Everyone wants one of these camps," said Downham.

With the approach of the afternoon the volunteers get the kids off the surf and boogie boards and walk them down the beach to meet some very special guests a few hundred yards away. On lookers unaware of what is about to happen stare at the Best Day group, wondering what is the purpose of the sudden invasion. Then from the south, the sounds of helicopter blades cut through the thick afternoon air. A helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City appears just off shore. A roar of excitement is heard from all the beach goers as a rescue swimmer is lowered from the helicopter into the surf. The aircrew gives the Best Day kids and everyone a glimpse into how the Coast Guard rescues people at sea.

The helicopter crew concludes the search and rescue demonstration and flies out to sea toward the horizon. Everyone thinks the show is over, but the helicopter traveling full speed flies back toward the beach and zooms overhead and breaks into a turn. Everyone goes wild.

"He loves the water and loves the helicopter. We're going to have a hard time getting him out of here," said Frank Taliertio, the father of 16-year-old Nick Taliertio.

Best Day New Jersey volunteers steady a surf board with a special needs child aboard to catch an oncoming wave Saturday, July 19, 2008, at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Monmouth, N.J.

"I like surfing. I like helicopter," said Nick.After the search and rescue demonstration, the group heads back to their area on the beach to continue surfing and body boarding. The expression on the faces of kids, parents and volunteers are all someone needs to see to know how fun the day has been.

"This is just wonderful. So many people giving their time and to a parent it's really heart warming," said Nora Plummer, a parent at Best Day. "This is our first time coming here and this is great. He doesn't want to get out of the water. Although, I heard they are serving pizza, which will get him out."

Best Day Foundation is a non-profit organization that empowers communities to create safe, fun-filled beach days for kids with special needs - enabling them to experience the thrill of riding a wave, regardless of their challenges. If you would like to learn more about Best Day New Jersey you can visit their website at http://www.bestdayfoundation.org/.

Stan Sperlak, New Pastel Paintings "From Around Cape Island"

September 6^th to October 19^th 2008.

Opening Reception: Saturday Evening, September 6, 6:00-9:00pm.

SOMA NewArt Gallery

31 Perry Street in Carpenters Square Mall, Cape May, NJ 08204

SOMA NewArt Gallery is pleased to announce "From Around Cape Island," a solo exhibition of new ocean, marsh, and field-scapes by renowned regional artist Stan Sperlak. For his show at SOMA, Sperlak has created an outstanding body of work inspired by the dramatic natural beauty of the Cape May peninsula. Skillfully rendered, this sensational new work brings another dimension to a career that has made

Stan Sperlak one of the most respected and collected artists working in the region.

The southern-most reaches of the Jersey coast have long been a favorite subject of the artist.  When Stan paints from nature, he distills it into its essential color and form, to enhance the visual appeal by reducing the discordant realities into a subtle yet powerful unity of color and form. In this new work for SOMA, the beaches, skies, dunes, marshes and fields are all represented in a deeply colorful and painterly way.   Although much detail is suggested, close inspection of these gorgeous pastels will reveal that Sperlak's latest paintings are more color fields with brush marks that allow the viewer to fill in the details and moods.  Each pastel painting captures the subtle natural beauty of the Jersey Shore, with the vivid mastery of color, texture, and form.

Sperlak is a juried member of the Pastel Society of America, the Mid-Atlantic Plein Air Painters, the Maryland Pastel Society,  and Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts in Millville.  He studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

Stan teaches pastel painting in the plein-air tradition at his many pastel workshops through out the year.

Stan will introduce this latest work to his numerous collectors and fans at the artist's Opening Reception at Cape May's SOMA NewArt Gallery, Saturday Evening, September 6^th from 6 to 9pm. Food and drink will be served catered by 410 Bank Street Restaurant.

The Gallery is located at Carpenter's Square Mall, 31 Perry Street, in Cape May.

The exhibition of Stan Sperlak's New Pastel Paintings  "From Around Cape Island" runs through October 19^th.  The Gallery is open daily.

SOMA NewArt Gallery, opened in June of 2007, Janet Miller founded SOMA as

the first Fine Arts Gallery in Cape May.  SOMA (which stands for South of the Mall)

is dedicated to showcasing and promoting important regional artists in a

Metropolitan-SOHO style exhibition space, and at prestigious National and International Art Fairs. This past winter SOMA represented its artists at the New York International Art Fair, and has just been accepted to exhibit in the ArtNow Fair this December in Miami Beach during the prestigious Miami Basel International Art Fair.  Comment's Miller, "the wise art collector will surely want to acquire Sperlak's work before it reaches international exposure later this year."

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (August 19, 2008) - Come get a taste.  From appetizers to entrees the Taste of The Quarter will offer guests a little bit of this and a whole lotta that with the expanded menu and beverage options served by your favorite local celebrities and dignitaries.  The Taste of The Quarter will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, August 25. Tickets will be available the night of the event.

Supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, local celebrities and dignitaries will come together to put on the Taste of The Quarter event featuring special menu items and services from various outlets in The Quarter.  Local celebrities and dignitaries currently include: Senator James Whelan, Assemblyman John Amedeo, Assemblyman Vincent Polistina, Councilman Dennis Mason, Tropicana President & C.O.O. Mark Giannantonio, Tropicana Vice President of Hotel Operations Al Maiorani, SoJO 104.9 on-air personality Marc Miller, The Shark 103.7 on-air personality Michael James, WOND on-air personalities Pinky Kravitz and Don Williams, At the Shore editor and staff writer for The Press of Atlantic City Scott Cronick, columnist for Bergen Record, Courier Post and AC Weekly as well as  host of Curtain Call on TV 40 David Spatz, Philadelphia Daily News columnist Chuck Darrow, local business owner Lisa Johnson, Ms. Senior New Jersey Joanne Gordon and more.

Entertainment will be provided by WTTH – The Touch DJ Raymond Tyler in Providence from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.  Additional entertainment will be provided by the Michael Pedicin Jazz Trio throughout the evening.

Participating restaurants and outlets are listed below:

Adam Good Sports Bar -  featuring  crab dip on toast, mini-sliders and wings, located on the Third Level of The Quarter.

Carmine’s –  featuring eggplant parmesan and focaccia, located on the Second Level of The Quarter.

Cuba Libre –  featuring guava rib sandwich, located on the Second level of The Quarter.

Ri-Ra Irish Pub -  featuring mini potato cakes with savory sour cream sauce and balsamic reduction, tender corned beef with braised napa cabbage, mashed potatoes and parsley sauce and
beer sampling. Located on the Third Level of The Quarter

Comedy Stop –   featuring  pizza  and  "Javie" wraps, located on the Third Level of The Quarter.

IMAX - featuring popcorn, located on the Third Level of The Quarter.

Missile Bar - featuring Mojitos, located on the Second Level of The Quarter.

PF Chang's China Bistro - featuring lettuce wraps, spare ribs, Mongolian beef, Ahi tuna, and Chang's chicken, located on the Second Level of The Quarter.

Planet Rose –   featuring  their signature cocktail, the Planet Rose, and offering free karaoke from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., located on the Third Level of The Quarter.

Providence -  featuring their signature cocktail, located on the Third Level of The Quarter and hosting AC Weekly columnist and WITH - The Touch DJ Raymond Tyler.

Red Square –   featuring salmon kulebyaka, located on the Second Level of The Quarter.

The Palm - featuring crab cake sliders with house made mango salsa, located on the First Level of The Quarter.

Tinder Box -  featuring a selection of red and white wines, located on the Second Level of The Quarter.

Zeytinia -  featuring Coffee sampling, located on the Second Level of The Quarter.

bluemercury apothecary & spa - featuring ten minute seated massage and makeup touch-up, located on the Second Level of The Quarter. Tickets are $25 (all proceeds benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society), and are available at the IMAX Box Office, or through Ticketmaster by calling 1.800.736.1420 or www.ticketmaster.com.

‘FOR THE LOVE OF THE DEEP'

Opening Artist's Reception - Saturday August 2nd, 6-9 PM.

Exhibition continues through September 2, 2008

Gallery Open Daily - 10AM-10PM

SOMA Gallery is delighted to announce an exhibition of Victor Grasso's newest work - ‘For the Love Of the Deep' with an opening Artist's Reception Party on Saturday Evening, August 2, 2008 from 6:00PM-9:00 PM, the exhibition will continue through September 2nd.

ENJOY a wild ride to the blackest depths of the ocean and the furthest fathoms of the imagination with an exhibition of exciting new work by artist Victor Grasso.

"I've always been fascinated by the Cyclops-like Mark V naval diving helmet of the 1940s. ‘For The Love Of The Deep' is an exploration of life's journey examined through the common man or ‘drone' in the form of a deep-sea diver. The occupants of those old suits were severely restrained and restricted and much of my inspiration is drawn from the importance of the individual crashing through the walls of the American social standard and forging his or her own identity. To me, this show demonstrates the drone's battle to break out of this cage and to achieve personal greatness by overcoming opposition and doubt, fulfilling ambitions, holding on to dreams and living up to one's fullest potential and individuality."

Grasso's new body of work reveals an exciting young painter at his masterful best. Using inspiration from a mixed bag of sources - Old Master figures, classic diving iconography, and exotic sea creatures - Grasso has created a series of compelling compositions. In ‘The Catch,' he juxtaposes a beautiful nude with the menacing form of a Mako shark in a powerful 6ft x 6ft work that showcases exquisite technical achievement, suggesting a bold and exciting new aesthetic from this young South Jersey artist.

Earlier in his career, Grasso distinguished himself by painting hyper-photorealistic depictions of the human form, often intertwined with animalistic imagery. Over the past few years he has begun weaving numerous images into one canvas, creating a visual overload of complex graphic compositions. Through variety and virtuosity, Grasso is able to elude being pigeonholed.
Grasso's new work still displays the graphic weight of the pop artist, but manages a triumphant marriage with the style of the Baroque Spanish Masters. This is accomplished through the precise study of elaborate composition, diagrammatic tempos, and vibrant veneers of sixteenth century European paintings, as well as a thorough knowledge of twentieth century American art. The result? An intoxicating fusion that is completely the artist's own.

In SOMA Gallery II, Grasso will present a new series of watercolor paintings reflecting on the same theme - ‘simulating the human journey through a profound fixation for the bottom of the drink.'

SOMA NewArt GALLERY 31 Perry Street, Cape May, NJ 08204 609-898-7488

www.somagallery.net

WEST TRENTON — As Hurricane Bertha’s remnants display their power even from afar by churning the surf at New Jersey’s beaches; state officials are reminding all citizens that now is the time to prepare for hurricanes. They are also urging all people with special needs who live in the state’s most hurricane-prone counties to sign up for New Jersey’s Special Needs Registry for Disasters, a message being reinforced by an advertising campaign that began today.

“Hurricane Bertha is a concrete reminder that the time to get ready is now,” said Colonel Rick Fuentes, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police and Director of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. “It takes three simple steps: Get a kit of emergency supplies – the items that will help you stay self-sufficient for up to three days; make a plan for what you and your family will do during an emergency – including knowing how to evacuate and shelter-in-place; and stay informed of possible threats. It’s never too early to talk to friends and family members who can help you get to safety when a crisis hits.”

“We are also urging citizens of Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Monmouth, Ocean and Salem counties who may have difficulty during an evacuation because of physical or other limitations, or lack of transportation to sign up for New Jersey’s Special Needs Registry for Disasters,” said New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness Director Richard L. Cañas. “Signing up with New Jersey's Special Needs Registry for Disasters will help first responders make the best use of limited time and resources by planning to help those with limited options for evacuation during an emergency.”

Fuentes and Cañas reminded members of the public that they can find additional information about how to prepare for a hurricane or other emergency at the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management’s Web site, www.Ready.NJ.gov. They also noted that there is a “Register Ready” icon on the NJOEM home page that can be clicked on to sign up for the Special Needs Registry for Disasters.

In addition, Fuentes and Cañas said that the state has begun an advertising campaign to reinforce the message that citizens with special needs should sign up for the Special Needs Registry for Disasters. The campaign targets the six-county area, using radio, newspapers and outdoor advertising.

In addition to the link on the NJOEM home page, people with special needs (or caregivers on their behalf) who live in the six counties currently eligible for the program are encouraged to register electronically, if possible, by directly accessing www.registerready.nj.gov. Alternatively, they can call New Jersey’s toll-free 2-1-1 telephone service. This service will register people, offer free translation, and provide TTY services for the hearing-impaired. Paper registration forms are also available from the mentioned county offices of emergency management, by contacting one of the following phone numbers or addresses:

Atlantic County OEM Anthony Canale Training Center 5033 English Creek Ave. Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 Phone: (609) 407-6742	Monmouth County OEM 300 Halls Mills Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 Phone: (732) 431-7400
Cape May County OEM 30 West Mechanic St. Cape May Court House, NJ 08210 Phone: (609) 463-6570	Ocean County OEM P.O. Box 2192 120 Hopper Ave. Toms River, NJ 08753 Phone: (732) 341-3551
Cumberland County OEM 637 Bridgeton Ave. Bridgeton, NJ 08302 Phone: (856) 455-8770	Salem County OEM 135 Cemetery Rd. Woodstown, NJ 08098 Phone: (856) 769-2900

Fuentes and Cañas also indicated that numerous community, civic, faith-based, medical, and non-profit organizations are also helping to register people with special needs.

On August 4th at Cape May Stage, the Film Society presents the world premiere of the documentary

ByGrace*, which follows the story of Kenyan orphans overcoming tremendous odds to survive. Filmmaker Chad Shagren is not only a local who traveled East Africa for production, but is also a former Cape May Film Academy Young Filmmaker. "The children portrayed in ByGrace* belong to an orphanage in the slums of Nairobi," says Shagren. "The documentary concentrates on Ben, an HIV positive orphan, and the daily hardships present in an over capacitated orphanage in Sub-Saharan Africa. Yet the children of ByGrace* never give up, confronting each day's obstacles relentlessly, showing hope, resolve, and in Ben's case, humor."

"This will really be a night to celebrate our Young Filmmakers," says JC Stinson, who had helped Chad and his colleagues finish the film. "What Chad has done is amazing-and his film is both inspiring and alarming at the same time. We'll also have a new film presented by another graduate of the program, Wesley Laudeman. Both of these filmmakers came through our program, and both films will leave quite an impression."

The second film in the series is entitled "Great New Jersey Coastal Storms," from filmmaker Gregg Hoffman. "The fury of the sea is captured here in rare movies and vintage newsreels," says Hoffman.

"We also have eyewitness accounts from those who have lived through the storms." During this movie premiere night, held at Beach Theatre on August 11, the Film Society wants to hear from the community. "This is an active call for speakers," says Annie Mullock, Events Director for the Society. "We want to hear from our neighbors who can remember a story or two about some of the big storms that have passed through our town."

On August 18 at the Cape May VFW, the Film Society will host the regional premiere of "The Road Home," a stirring documentary that follows a group of disabled Americans who regain control of their lives by training for, then crossing the finish line at the NYC Marathon. "Though these men and women are recent amputees from Iraq and Afghanistan, this is not ‘just another Iraq War movie,' says producer, Andrew Tilson (who will be present at the screening). "With the assistance of a NYC based disabled athletes club, Achilles, we tell the story of what it means to be suddenly and severely disabled in your prime, and one way of coming back home."

"These are important and moving films," says Corbin Cogswell, Chair or the Film Society's Program and Membership Committee. "And what's better than a night at the movies? When those movies are world or regional premieres. Three Mondays in August, three fantastic venues, and three great premiere films-we are truly looking forward to this series."

The Cape May Film Society will host the eighth annual Cape May Film Festival, which is New Jersey's premiere film festival dedicated to the support and presentation of creative, challenging, groundbreaking, film/video works by New Jersey filmmakers. The Society is also the region's leading educational and cultural resource for youth and adult learners interested in all facets of the cinematic experience. For tickets to this program, contact the Film Festival office at 609-884-6700 or visit them online at www.capemayfilm.org.

HAIR

The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical At the CAROUSEL on the Boardwalk in Asbury Par, Andy Goldberg (The Bomb-itty of Errors) Directs

Asbury Park, NJ - The newly restored historic Carousel House on the Boardwalk in Asbury Park comes alive again with the American Tribal Love-Rock Musical, HAIR.  David Leidholdt, one of the producing artistic directors reminds us "The ReVision Theatre is known for its 'not-what you-expect' productions and our HAIR will do the same.  While at the same time it promises to retain all the vibrancy, excitement, and immediacy that made the original Broadway production a hit.  This will be the first time that the Carousel Building will be utilized since its restoration and we will use its unique characteristics to the fullest.  Our plans include creating a very unconventional performance space that will envelop the audience."  The cast will include professionals from both New York and the local area. "This will be an event not to be missed," adds Mr. Leidholdt.

Tickets on sale now! Performances begin Friday, August 15 and runs through August 31 (Thursdays (8:00 pm), Fridays (8:00 pm), 2 show Saturdays (7:00 pm & 10:30 pm), and Sunday (7:00 pm)). Tickets are available online now at www.ReVisionTheatre.org or by calling 732-455-3059. All tickets are $35.00.  Seating is limited.

Hair, The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical is a rock musical with book and lyrics by James Rado and Gerome Ragni and music by Galt MacDermot. A product of the hippie counter-culture and sexual revolution of the 1960s, several of its songs became anthems of the anti-Vietnam War peace movement which include: "Aquarius," the title song "Hair," "Easy To Be Hard," "Good Morning Starshine," and "Let The Sunshine In". The musical's profanity, its depiction of the use of illegal drugs, its treatment of sexuality, its irreverence for the American flag, and its nude scene caused much comment and controversy.  The musical broke new ground in musical theatre by defining the genre of the "rock musical", utilizing a racially-integrated cast and inviting the audience onstage for a "Be-in" finale.

Hair tells the story of the "tribe", a group of politically active, long-haired "Hippies of the Age of Aquarius" fighting against conscription to the Vietnam War and living a bohemian life together in New York City. They struggle to balance their young lives, loves and the sexual revolution with their pacifist rebellion against the war and the conservative impulses of their parents and society.

After an Off-Broadway debut in October 1967 at Joseph Papp's Public Theater and another run in a midtown discothèque space, the show opened on Broadway in April 1968 and ran for 1,750 performances, followed by a successful London production, which ran for 1,997 performances. Numerous productions have been staged around the world since then, and numerous recordings of the musical have been released.  Several of the songs from its score became Top 40 hits, and a successful movie adaptation was released in 1979.

The Revision Theatre's production will be directed by Andy Goldberg. Mr. Goldberg's credits include the critically acclaimed The Bomb-itty of Errors (Off-Broadway), Love Sucks (NYMF), Nerds (NYMF), and Romeo and Juliet (American Stage).  Russ Schramm (Scenic Designer), Dawn von Suskil (Associate Scenic Designer), and George Hansel (Lighting Designer) round out the creative team.

ReVision Theatre is a non-profit 501(c)3 professional regional theatre company dedicated to producing invigorating theatre with a fresh new perspective reaching the diverse community of Asbury Park and Monmouth County. ReVision Theatre produces reinventions of previously produced classics, overlooked or forgotten work in a new way, and new work with a fresh voice. The company serves as a home for local artists and writers. ReVision Theatre also believes in the importance of theatre education and teaches children and adult theatre classes. ReVision Theatre produces readings, workshops, cabarets, concerts, and mainstage productions.

Visit www.RevisionTheatre.org or call 732-455-3059 for tickets or for more information.

CONTACT: Stephen Bishop Seely

Stephen@ReVisionTheatre.org 732-455-3059

Fast Facts:

Who:                ReVision Theatre

David E. Leidholdt, Thomas Morrissey, and Stephen Bishop Seely

Producing Artistic Directors

PO BOX 973

Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712

What:               HAIR, The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical

Book and Lyrics by James Rado and Gerome Ragni

Music by Galt MacDermot.

Directed by Andy Goldberg

Scenic Design by Russ Schramm

Associate Scenic Design by Dawn von Suskil

Lighting Design by George Hansel

Where:             The Carousel on the Boardwalk in Asbury Park, NJ

700 Ocean Avenue at Asbury Avenue

Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712

When:              Opens Friday, August 15

Thru Sunday, August 31

Performances Thursdays & Fridays at 8pm

Saturdays at 7 & 10:30pm

Sundays at 7pm

How:                All tickets are $35.

Buy tickets online at www.ReVisionTheatre.org

Or call 732-455-3059.

Limited seating is available.

Contains Nudity & Strong Language

Wednesday, July 16

Strength In Heart: Stop The Beat domestic violence benefit show featuring Aster Pheonyx, Jessica Paris, Manifest Destiny, Divine Sign, Maybe Pete at The Saint, 7:30 pm

Deathbed Repentance, Guns on the Run, Ambergris at Asbury Lanes, 8 pm, all ages

Thursday, July 17

Colour Reporter, Project 222, Salt Water All-Stars, Katie Pearlman Band at The Saint, 8 pm

Friday, July 18

Road Trip Weekend

Green Underground, Codename, Dave Tucker at The Saint, 8 pm

Saturday, July 19

Road Trip Weekend

Status Green, Midatlantic, The Obvious, East Coast Addiction, Before the After Party at The Stone Pony, 7:30 pm, all ages

Sunday, July 20

Road Trip Weekend

Gov't Mule on The Stone Pony Summerstage, 5 pm, all ages

Long Beach Island (LBI)

Launch of Puppy Pacer
Dates: Saturdays, Sundays, Weekends, Everyday, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays May 16, 2008 through August 6, 2008
Description:

See Spot, See Spot Run, Run Spot Run!! Puppy Pacer is a group established by Ross McGraw, an accomplished distance runner who is putting his endurance to use. Ross initially started Puppy Pacers at Long Beach Island (NJ), where he has spent every summer of his life and has competed in the Dog Day Race multiple times. If you are interested in having your pet take a test run and be evaluated by Puppy Pacers, please email puppypacer@gmail.com.

Organization: Puppy Pacer
Contact Info:
Ross McGraw
Phone: 717.557.4801
puppypacer@gmail.com
Web Site: http://puppypacer.blogspot.com/

Chicago
Dates: Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays July 1, 2008 through July 20, 2008
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Surflight Theatre
Community: Beach Haven
Contact Info:
Box Office
Phone: 609-492-9477
tickets@surflight.org
Web Site: http://www.surflight.org

Avalon

July 18-19, 2008 Avalon Manor Community-Wide yard sale starting July 18, and 19, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

July 18, 2008 - Veterans Plaza Concert-7pm-21st & Dune

The Avalon Free Public Library in conjuction with the Avalon Recreation Department host weekly concerts at the Veterans Plaza. Tonight, enjoy the 7 Mile Singers. Next Friday night, live music with "Caught in a Trap", a live tribute to Elvis Presley.

July 19, 2008 - Big Band Dance with Walt Wagner - Community Hall
Ticket $5 at the door
Doors open at 8 p.m.
Music from 8:30-11:00 p.m.

Reservations call 609-967-3066

July 19, 2008 - South Jersey Paranormal Research - Library - 2pm

South Jersey Paranormal Research program- July 19 - 2 to 4pm

This program features audio and video recordings of paranormal events and other observations. This program is free of charge and open to the public.

Stone Harbor

July 20, 2008 - Stone Harbor Triathlon
1/4 mile Swim, 11 mile Bike, 5k Run
Stone Harbor Yacht Club
7:30am
Registration beginning May 23, 2008
rhrec1@aol.com

Sea Isle City

July 19-20, 2008 Beach Classic Men's Hockey Tourney,
Hockey Rink, 59th St. & Central Ave., Start 8AM, Team Registration Required, 613-874-3633

Erma

July 19th 2008 Celebrate Foodways and Folklife at Historic Cold Spring Village

10:00a.m. to 4:30p.m.

Join in a celebration of historic and traditional cooking techniques of America's past at Historic Cold Spring Village's annual Foodways and Folklife weekend event, Saturday and Sunday, July 19th and 20th from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Guests will have the opportunity to learn and experience the methods, styles and heritage of American food preparation and recipes in the 1800s. This event is sponsored by Chris Cleman and Co. Inc. Realtors.
Observe open-hearth cooking, bake oven demonstrations, pit cooking, and a variety of unique and fascinating historic cooking techniques demonstrated by the Historic Foodways Society of Delaware Valley. Learn about herbs and their many uses, collect recipes from Villagers, and interact with various trades and crafts from the "age of homespun". Experience authentic wool production with a program demonstrating traditional washing, dyeing, and spinning with sheep shearing in the afternoons. Enjoy dulcimer music and interactive music programs with folk singer Bonnie Leigh, whose "historical programs take you back to a time of our ancestors and our American folk music's history" (visit www.bonnieleigh.com for more artist information). Papermaking by the Philadelphia Handmade Paper Company will be featured all weekend, as well as special candlemaking programs. Children can try their hand at special craft activities and participate in 19th century games and dress-up.
Fun and educational activities for children are featured Tuesday through Sunday from June 17th to August 31st. Historic Cold Spring Village is a non-profit, open air living history museum that portrays the daily life of a rural South Jersey community of the Early American period. It features 26 restored historic structures on a wooded 22-acre site. From late June to early September, interpreters and artisans in period clothing preserve the trades, crafts and heritage of "The Age of Homespun."
Historic Cold Spring Village is located on Route 9 between Cape May and Rio
Grande. HCSV is open 10:00am to 4:30pm Tuesday through Sunday, (closed Mondays)
from June 17th to August 31st, as well as the weekends of September 6th and 7th, 13th and 14th and October 18th. Admission during the season is $8.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors (62 and over) and $6.00 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 are admitted free. Unlimited free admission is available with membership in the Friends of Historic Cold Spring Village. For more information on employment, events, memberships or volunteering, call (609) 898-2300, ext. 10 or visit the Village website at www.hcsv.org.

Ocean City

Night In Venice
19th - Night in Venice - The City's annual boat parade is one of the largest in the world. Starts at 7:30pm from the Longport Bridge to Tennessee Ave. along the bay. For more information call 609-525-9300.
7:30:00 PM to 7/19/2008 9:30:00 PM

A Dam Good Sports Bar
A Dam Good Sports Bar lives up to its name with $5.00, 40 oz. beers every Sunday through Friday.

The Bar at Wellington's
Drop on by and see the Michael Pedicin Jazz Trio perform from 8 p.m. until midnight.

Carmine's
If nothing makes you happier than happy hour, plan a stop to Carmine's, where you can indulge in deliciously potent draft beer and frozen drinks for half price from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar
Ready to move to the music? Follow the beat to Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar in The Quarter. Every Friday evening Now through September 5, live Latin bands will fill the night with the sounds of Salsa, Merengue and Cha Cha. For those who can dance all night, DJ Javier turns up the heat with a Late Night Latin Floorshow. Enjoy half-priced Cuba Libre brand rum Mojitos and Miller Lite bottles from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. every Friday.

Firewaters Beer & Martini Bar
It's only here you can enjoy $5.00 Long Island Iced Teas and Vodka & Red Bulls until 11:59 p.m.

Missile Bar
Set your weekend off with Fuel Up Fridays, featuring DJ's spinning hot vocal house, dance, party tracxx and mash-ups. Celebrate the end of the work week with half-priced V2 vodka cocktails and Miller Lite bottles from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Planet Rose Karaoke Bar
The club that elevates karaoke to a whole new level is ready to make your Friday nights sing. Purchase any cocktail (otherwise known as liquid courage) and enjoy free karaoke until 10 p.m. every Friday night. With a karaoke library of 15,000 songs to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect match for your stage debut.

Providence Night Club
Are you single and ready to mingle? The social scene sizzles at Providence Night Club. On Friday nights, ladies enjoy comp admission until midnight.

Red Square
Consider living it large with 30% off of selected vodka bottles and access the Vodka Locker at these discounted rates.

Rí-Rá Irish Pub
Join your friends at Rí-Rá, where cover top 40 bands provide a high energy sound track for the party crowd.

Rumba Lounge
Visit our ALL new lounge for a full panoramic view of the pulse-pounding action on the surrounding gaming floor along with Plasma TV's throughout so you never have to miss any of the action from your favorite sporting events.

Tango's Casino Lounge
Enjoy a refreshing cocktail and take in the breathtaking excitement of The Quarter. Tango's is the perfect setting for relaxing and enjoying live music. Make sure to try their featured drink the Tango Fandago- Captain Morgan Spiced Rum blended with orange and pineapple juices, served on the rocks with a pineapple wedge. $12.50+.

32◦ Luxe Lounge
This hot spot offers half-priced featured cocktails & Coors Light Bottles from 11 p.m. until 1 a.m. with DJ Micah spinning Electro Beats, Hip Hop & Mash-Ups.

Specials valid on Friday nights only.

From Asbury Park Press

"Did you hear the cops finally busted Madam Marie,'' Springsteen sang in his 1973 song, "4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)'' "for tellin' fortunes better than they do." MORE...

From Youtube.com

The song that made her famous.

From NJ.com

"On his website, Springsteen wrote: "Back in the day when I was a fixture on the Asbury Park boardwalk, I'd often stop and talk to Madam Marie as she sat on her folding chair outside the Temple of Knowledge." MORE...

From E!online

"It doesn't take a crystal ball to see that Bruce Springsteen fans are in mourning.

Boardwalk fixture and Springsteen song legend Madam Marie, the seaside clairvoyant immortalized in "4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)," died last Friday at age 93, great-granddaughter Sally Castello told the Asbury Park Press." MORE...

From The Bosses Website

"Back in the day when I was a fixture on the Asbury Park boardwalk, I'd often stop and talk to Madam Marie as she sat on her folding chair outside the Temple of Knowledge." MORE...

Chaka Khan
Borgata Music Box
Saturday, August 9th - 9pm
$65

The multiple Grammy Award-winning singer Chaka Khan, known for hit songs such as "I'm Every Woman", "I Feel For You" and "Through the Fire", will perform at Borgata's Music Box on Saturday, August 9.

With the 2007 release of her album FUNK THIS, Chaka returns to her musical roots, bringing together a selection of her own compositions and collaborations with fresh readings of classic tunes originated by Prince, Joni Mitchell, and Jimi Hendrix.

A renowned proponent of ‘old school' soul music, her energy, dynamism, and passion through live performances for over three decades, Chaka has brought her special brand of vocal magic to audiences the world over.
New Kids On The Block
Borgata Event Center
Friday, November 7th - 8pm
$125; $85

New Kids On The Block - the group that forever defined what the modern boy band would look and sound like - are back together for the very first time in nearly 15 years with their hotly anticipated international concert tour stopping by Borgata's Event Center for a second show on November 7th.

The band, comprised of Jordan Knight, Jonathan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg and Danny Wood, are taking charge of their own destiny with new music that they found and funded themselves. The Kids' new tour will include all the familiar hits such as "You Got It (The Right Stuff)", "Cover Girl", and "Step by Step".

"I want it to be redemption for the fans," Donnie Wahlberg explains. "I want them to feel entertained, to feel treated to something special. And I want them to be so satisfied by what they get that they'll realize they weren't crazy all those years ago - that they put their heart into the right place back then and that it was worth the wait to come back again."

Borgata's Entertainment Schedule

Chelsea Handler
Music Box / July 5 - 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.

John Legend
Event Center / July 6 - 8 p.m.

Two Funny Philly Guys starring Joe Conklin and Big Daddy Graham
Music Box / July 6 - 9 p.m.

Russell Peters
Music Box / July 11 - 9 p.m.
Music Box / July 12 - 9 p.m.

Van Morrison
Event Center / July 12 - 7:30 p.m.

Eagles
Event Center / July 17 - 8 p.m.
Event Center / July 19 - 8 p.m.

Dom Irrera with Richard Belzer
Music Box / July 18 - 9 p.m.

Brad Garrett
Music Box / July 19 - 8 p.m. & 11:30 p.m.

Aretha Franklin
Music Box / July 25 - 9 p.m.

Crosby, Stills & Nash
Event Center / July 26 - 8 p.m.

The Killers
Event Center / August 1 - 8 p.m.

Earth, Wind & Fire
Event Center / August 2 - 8p.m.

Jill Scott
Event Center / August 3 - 8 p.m.

K.T. Tunstall
Music Box / August 8 - 9 p.m.

Counting Crows & Maroon 5
Event Center / August 8 - 8 p.m.

Stone Temple Pilots
Event Center / August 9 - 8 p.m.

Chaka Khan ***
Music Box / August 9 - 9 p.m.

Chris Rock
Event Center / August 15 - 8 p.m. & 11:30 p.m.

Herbie Hancock
Music Box / August 16 - 9 p.m.

Bob Dylan
Event Center / August 16 - 8 p.m.

Rod Stewart
Event Center / August 22 - 8 p.m.
Event Center / August 23 - 8 p.m.

Andrew Dice Clay
Music Box / August 22 - 9 p.m.
Music Box / August 23 - 9 p.m.

Carlos Mencia
Event Center / August 31 - 7 p.m.

New Kids on the Block
Event Center / September 27 - 8 p.m.
Event Center / November 7 - 8 p.m. ***

The Black Crowes
Event Center / October 11 - 8 p.m.

About Borgata
Borgata is a joint venture of Boyd Gaming Corporation (NYSE: BYD) and MGM MIRAGE (NYSE: MGM). Located at Renaissance Pointe in Atlantic City, it features 2,000 guest rooms and suites, 161,000 square feet of gaming, 200 gaming tables, 4,100 slot machines, 11 destination restaurants, 12 retail boutiques, a 54,000 square foot spa, 70,000 square feet of event space, and parking for 7,100 cars. For more information on Borgata or to obtain a copy of this press release, please visit theborgata.com or use AOL keyword: borgata. Additional news and information on Boyd Gaming can be found at boydgaming.com; additional information on MGM MIRAGE can be found at mgmmirage.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 12 2008

Local women to offer up exciting skating battle for the Shore!

ASBURY PARK - The exciting world of roller derby will descend upon the Jersey Shore as two local teams from the Jersey Shore Roller Girls league battle it out Saturday, July 12 in Asbury Park Convention Hall.

The women athletes of the undefeated Right Coast Rollers team and the debuting Anchor Assassins team will serve up the fierce blocks and jams that roller derby is known for, as the Convention Hall is transformed into a roller derby rink.

The event marks the second intra-league match-up for the Jersey Shore Roller Girls, who have prepared a night of derby mayhem in a full-length bout where the women don their derby persona's and showcase their skills as skaters hit, dodge and block to get through the pack and score.

Captains for both teams said that with at least three practices a week at Rollermagic Skating Rink in Jackson, the skaters have been working hard to prepare for an exciting combat on wheels.

"It's the Anchor Assassins' first bout and we're beyond excited for it," said Ms. Ciri Ganguzza, the captain of the Anchor Assassins. Skating as "Ciri L. Killer," Ms.Ganguzza leads her team to an exciting face-off against the Right Coast Rollers.

"We've been working really hard for the past few months in preparation and it's definitely paying off.  The majority of our girls will be bouting for the first time and although they've had a short time period to advance a long way, they've done a great job," Ms. Ganguzza said.

Right Coast Rollers has Eva "Angry Beaver" O'Neill as its captain. Ms. O'Neill said her team can't wait to take on the Anchor Assassins.

"The Right Coast Rollers have been training hard for this one. We are up against a new group of upcoming skaters that have proven to be a strong team," Ms. O'Neill said. "But we are the returning champs full of experienced players and plan to stay undefeated and sink the Anchor Assassins."

Also as part of the can't-miss activities that night is a performance by local alternative rock greats Wicker Hollow, who will undoubtedly add their song "Roller Girl" to the set list.

Tickets are on sale now for $15 at www.jerseyshorerollergirls.net for the Saturday July 12 bout. Tickets are $20 at the door. Children under 12 are admitted free. Doors open at 7 p.m., the whistle blows at 8 p.m. Adults 21 and over to drink.

The Jersey Shore Roller Girls league consists of three intra-league teams -- the Murder Beach Militia, the Right Coast Rollers and the Anchor Assassins -- and one all-star travel team. Its members -- women of all ages and backgrounds --  fill the Jackson Skating Center for grueling practices several times weekly, training and scrimmaging with their coaching and referee staff. The next bout is Saturday, Aug. 30, when the Murder Beach Militia will square off against the Anchor Assassins.

Roller derby is the newest, extreme sport for women rapidly sweeping the nation. Roller derby has been re-vamped into a flat-track version of the old-school style of a bank track. This is the real thing, not an orchestrated match-up. Jersey Shore Roller Girls, a league which formed just over a year ago, skates under the Women's Flat Track Derby Association rules and regulations.

To find out more information about the Jersey Shore Roller Girls league please go to www.jerseyshorerollergirls.net. The league is always accepting new recruits, and no previous skating experience is necessary. Anyone interested in being a skater, referee, a sponsor, or just wants to help out please email info@jerseyshorerollergirls.com

The film’s director is Jonathan Zelenak, whose mother, Victoria, is the Superintendent of Cape May Elementary School and sits on the Program and Membership Committee for the Cape May Film Society. “When Victoria brought this up at a current committee meeting,” says Corbin Cogswell, chair of the committee, “I knew the Film Society would want to play host—that’s part of our mission.”

The story of “Sneakers and Soul” is this: After inheriting a pair of blue sneakers and a mysterious key to a New York City apartment, a young work-obsessed lawyer finds himself following in his late father's adventurous footsteps – walking from South Jersey to New York with his loyal, but complicated best friend. Site locations include Cape Regional Medical Center and an office location in North Cape May.

The scene needing extras will be the reading of a will. Shooting will take place on Saturday, July 19th at 3:00 p.m. at the elementary school, and all are encouraged to inquire about the opportunity. Call Niki Janowski, the film’s Producer, directly at 540-818-4273 or e-mail SneakersandSoul@gmail.com.

The Cape May Film Society hosts the Cape May Film Festival, which is New Jersey’s premiere film festival dedicated to the support and presentation of creative, challenging, groundbreaking, film/video works by New Jersey filmmakers. The Society is also the region’s leading educational and cultural resource for youth and adult learners, as well as independent filmmakers, through the Cape May Film Academy.

via Tom Sims

HEADLINERS

Dancing Queen - These songs are from the era when music was fun, choreography was extreme and everyone danced to the beat of a different drum. Relive the time of 1970's disco with the production extravaganza of Dancing Queen, on select dates Sunday, July 6 through Thursday, August 28 in the Tropicana Showroom. Show times are 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 3:30 p.m. matinees Tuesday and Wednesday, 9 p.m. Saturdays. The Showroom is dark on Friday. Tickets are priced at $25 and are available at the Tropicana Box Office and through Ticketmaster at 1.800.736.1420 or www.ticketmaster.com.

Battle Cage Xtreme V - Full Throttle - Pro MMA Cage Fighting comes to the Tropicana on July 12 at 9 p.m. Doors open at 8 p.m. Ticket prices are $60, $75, $100 and $150 and are available at the Tropicana Box Office and through Ticketmaster at 1.800.736.1420 or www.ticketmaster.com.

Yesterday: A Tribute to The Beatles - Extended by popular demand in the Cabaret Theater / Liverpool Club. Wednesdays-Sundays at 8:30 p.m. Visit www.tropicana.net for complete dates and show times. Tickets are $25 and are available at the Tropicana Box Office and through Ticketmaster at 1.800.736.1420 or www.ticketmaster.com.

Bernie Parent Autographing Session - Meet the NHL goalie who led the Philadelphia Flyers to the first of two Stanley Cup Championships. Presented by Klassic Kollectables, Bernie Parent will sign autographs from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, next to Old Farmer's Almanac in The Quarter.

Tango's Lounge - Located steps from the casino in The Quarter, Tango's Lounge offers free live entertainment seven nights a week.

RESTAURANTS AND NIGHTLIFE

A Dam Good Sports Bar - Join the party on Friday and Saturday nights with a live DJ. Sunday - Friday, quench your thirst with $5.00, 40 oz. bottle beers.

Carmine's - Join us for "Happy Hour" Monday - Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and enjoy our half price "summer drink" menu and frozen drinks: Peach Bellini, Frozen Pomegranate Cosmo, and Strawberry Daiquiri. Carmine's is also offering on Saturday night's only a Prime Rib Chop: a thick cut prime rib on the bone, roasted very slowly to keep all the juices and flavors within the meat. It's served with sautéed Portobello mushrooms, spinach and potatoes, broccoli rabe and red onions, topped with an au jus sauce. All Tropicana employees enjoy 10% off food and beverage purchases every day of the week.

Corky's Ribs & BBQ - Bring your appetite and enjoy a zesty dinner special: buy one half rack of ribs and get second half rack half off. This special even includes two free non-alcoholic beverages!

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar "15 Tastes of Cuba"- Offered Sunday through Friday (dinner only). Your Passport to the Forbidden Island! Enjoy a tasting of 15 of Chef Guillermo Pernot's favorites at Cuba Libre. Dinner includes: Pressed Cuban Bread and Mango Butter, four appetizers, one salad, three entrees and three desserts. Just $39 per person (tax and gratuity not included). For more information, please visit http://www.CubaLibreRestaurant.com.

The Comedy Stop Cabaret & Cafe - Weekend Buffet Style Breakfast, every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., enjoy a hearty buffet style breakfast complete with pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, home fries, rolls and endless cups of coffee for $7.77/person. Price includes tax, but not gratuity. Second helping charge is $5.00/person.

Fiesta Buffet - The Fiesta Buffet has added snow crab legs to its tantalizing array of fresh seafood selections every Friday. The $24.95 price remains the same.

Firewaters - Mondays through Saturdays until 11:59 p.m., belly up to the bar for $5 Long Island Iced Teas or Vodka & Red Bulls.

Friday Night @ The Trop - Start your weekend every Friday night at Atlantic City's hottest entertainment destination with more than 12 bars and lounges. Enjoy specials all night long at Tango's Lounge, Providence Night Club, Planet Rose Karaoke Bar, Red Square, Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, Rí-Rá Irish Pub, A Dam Good Sports Bar, 32° Luxe Lounge, Carmine's, The Comedy Stop Cabaret & Cafe and more!

The Palm Restaurant - Get cracking with a Summer Lobster Dinner for two, featuring a 4lb. jumbo Nova Scotia lobster split for two, two salads and one Palm Signature or Summer side dish all for just $95. Call reservations at 609.344.7256 for more information and start planning today. Free Valet parking directly in front of The Palm on Pacific Avenue.

Red Square - Put your fun on ice with Red Square's Vodka Locker Picture Special. Enjoy two shots of any of Red Square's 170 Vodkas and a photo of your toast to capture the moment. For your commemorative photo, men will wear authentic Russian Jackets and the ladies will slip into luxurious fur coats in our exclusive Vodka Locker. This incredible special is just $50, and includes Vodkas that retail for $500 per bottle.

Rí-Rá Irish Pub - You'll find live music seven nights a week. Sundays through Wednesdays from 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., duos and trios perform sing-along songs that will get your toes tapping. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, cover top 40 bands provide a high energy sound track for the party crowd.

Starbucks Coffee - Our summer promotional drinks are Starbucks Double Shot on Ice, Mint Mocha Frappuccino, and Mint Chocolaty Chip Frappuccino. We are now serving a Blended Lemonade. Our whole bean coffee is Kopelani Blend which features a blend of coffees from Hawaii, Latin America, and East Africa. This coffee is considered a medium body with good acidity and highlighted by juicy fruit flavors with crisp mouth feel, mild floral complexities and soft sweetness. In support of our commitment to health and wellness, the Vanilla Almond and Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti, Dry Roasted Cashews, Almonds and Fruit & Nut Blend, Madelines and our Shortbread and Oatflake Heather Honey Cookies will be reformulated to be trans-fat free and to meet Starbucks caloric and fat guidelines.

Wellington's Seafood & Steakhouse - Juicy steaks meet smooth jazz as the Michael Pedicin Jazz Trio performs every Friday and Saturday event, 8 p.m. until midnight.

COMEDY STOP CAFE & CABARET

Comedy Toga Party - In honor of John Belushi and the 30th Anniversary of Animal House, the Comedy Stop presents the Comedy Toga Party on Thursday, July 3 at 10 p.m. Enjoy a hysterical night with three headliner comics, loads of prizes and surprises. Admission is just $30. Wear a toga and pay just $10 in cash at the door!

Summer Schedule - The Comedy Stop now features its summer schedule, with shows Sunday-Thursday at 10 pm, Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m.

Family Shows - The Family Show takes place at 6:30 p.m. Saturdays. This show is "high school appropriate" with a PG-13 rating and children 12 years and older are permitted with an adult.

Butch Bradley - For the entire summer The Comedy Stop will feature Atlantic City native Butch Bradley, as the club celebrates its 25th year at the Tropicana culminating in a "25th Silver Anniversary" show in Tropicana's showroom on August 30.

July Lineup of Laughter

Happy Hour - Enjoy plenty of libations and laughs at Comedy Stop's new Nightly Happy Hour from 4 - 6 p.m. with $3.50 domestic beers, $4.00 drink specials and delicious free pizza.

Casino Employee Party Night Every Sunday-Thursday - Atlantic City Casino employees can enjoy a great show at a great price. For a cash purchase of $30, casino employees with current casino ID and driver's license get admission for two plus $2 beer and $3 wing specials. You must be 21 or older and tickets must be purchased at the Comedy Stop Box Office on the day of show.

Ticket Info -
July 3 - 6: (July 4th weekend): Thursday, July 3 - TOGA party - 10pm - $30 per person OR $10 per person when purchased at The Comedy Stop in your TOGA; Friday, July 4 - 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. shows $25.00. Saturday, July 5 - 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. shows $28.00. Saturday PG-13 show 6:30 p.m. Family Show $8.00 for kids, $14.00 for adults. Sunday, July 6 - 10 p.m. show - $25 per person.

July 7 - 31: Sunday-Thursday 10 p.m. show $23.00. Friday 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. shows $23.00. Saturday 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. shows $26.00. Saturday PG-13 show 6:30 p.m. Family Show $8.00 for kids, $14.00 for adults.

Comedy Stop 25th Anniversary Bob Kephart Roast: Thursday July 24
(10 p.m. - $23 per person)
Join local media personalities and your favorite comedians as they roast the Comedy Stop founder Bob Kephart.

Tickets are available at the Tropicana Box Office, Comedy Stop Box Office or by calling 1.877.FUNNY AC. Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or via phone at 1.800.736.1420. All prices, show times and performers are subject to change. For a full schedule, please visit www.comedystop.com.

IMAX® ENTERTAINMENT

The Dark Knight (Rated PG- 13, 152 minutes) - The follow-up to the action hit BATMAN BEGINS, THE DARK KNIGHT reunites director Christopher Nolan and star Christian Bale, who reprises the role of Batman/Bruce Wayne. In the new film, Batman raises the stakes in his war on crime. With the help of Lieutenant Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman sets out to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that plague the city streets. The partnership proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a reign of chaos unleashed by a rising criminal mastermind known to the terrified citizens of Gotham as The Joker.
Midnight Prescreening - Thursday night, July 17. Showing July 18 - 31 at 12 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. daily. (Special schedule July 23 and July 24, Dark Knight plays 10:30 a.m., 4:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. and 10:15 p.m.) Tickets are $14.00.

Kung Fu Panda (Rated PG, 90 minutes) - Enthusiastic, big and a bit clumsy, Po is the biggest fan of Kung Fu around. Unexpectedly chosen to fulfill an ancient prophecy, Po's dreams become reality when he joins the world of Kung Fu and studies alongside his idols. Starring Jack Black as Po, Dustin Hoffman as Shifu and Angelina Jolie as Tigress.
Showing July 1 - 17 at 12 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Sunday - Thursday; 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Thursday, July 10. Tickets are $14.00.

Dolphins & Whales 3D (Rated G, 45 minutes) - This underwater film lets you dive in a whole new way with these wild, fascinating and graceful ocean creatures, from the dazzling coral reefs of the Bahamas to the depths of the Azores archipelago. Share unique moments of life, joy and drama with, among others, bottlenose, common and riso dolphins, pilot and humpback whales, as well as manatees and orcas, for the very first time in 3D on an IMAX® theatre screen. Discover their lives and habitats as never-before seen.
Showing July 1 - 17 at 2 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. Sunday - Thursday; 11 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Special showing at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 10. Showing July 18 - 31 at 3 p.m. daily. Tickets are $11.95.

Ticket Purchases - Tickets can be reserved in advance by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-736-1420. Tickets can also be purchased at the IMAX® Box Office located adjacent to the IMAX® Theatre in The Quarter. Ticket purchases are always subject to availability.

First Wednesday Special - Save $2 off all full price tickets on July 2, 2008. No discounts will be given during the opening two weeks of a new film release.

City-Wide Casino Employee Special - Show proof of Atlantic City employment and save $2 off all full price tickets every Thursday. No discounts will be given during the opening two weeks of a new film release.

IMAX and Atlantic City Cruises Mammal Mondays - Purchase a discounted ticket to Dolphins & Whales 3D for just $9.95 (an $11.95 value) and receive $5.00 off to the Atlantic City Cruise's "Dolphin Watching Cruise" at Gardner's Basin, located at 800 North New Hampshire Avenue in Atlantic City.

Birthday Parties - With IMAX®, it's easy to make all of your birthday parties blockbusters. Your party package includes ticket discounts, concessions and more. Please call 609-340-4045 or 1-888-505-1435 for complete details and to schedule your party.

Gift Certificates -Gift Certificates for IMAX are now available for $14 and are good for one admission to an IMAX feature length film at Tropicana Atlantic City. Gift certificates can be purchased at the IMAX Box Office or by calling 1-888-505-1435.
The IMAX Theatre at Tropicana is located in The Quarter. For full schedules and movie information, please visit http://www.tropicana.net/imaxtheater/index.

POKER CLUB SPECIALS:

- Special tournament times and buy-ins for July 4th weekend

- Bad Beat jackpot offered for cash games and tournaments

JULY POKER TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE:

Mondays
No Limit Hold'em at 11:15 a.m. with $50 buy-in/$12 entry fee and $5,000 in chips.
Single A No Limit Hold'em at 7:15 p.m. with $60 buy-in/$17 entry fee and $7,500 in chips, ($3,000 guaranteed*).

Tuesdays
No Limit Hold'em at 11:15 a.m. with $50 buy-in/$12 entry fee and $5,000 in chips.
Single A No Limit Hold'em at 7:15 p.m. with $60 buy-in/$12 entry fee and $10,000 in chips, ($2,000 guaranteed*).

Wednesdays
No Limit Hold'em at 11:15 a.m. with $50 buy-in/$12 entry fee and $5,000 in chips.
Single A No Limit Hold'em at 7:15 p.m. with $50 buy-in/$12 entry fee and $7,500 in chips, ($2,000 guaranteed*).

Thursdays
No Limit Hold'em at 11:15 a.m. with $50 buy-in/$12 entry fee and $5,000 in chips.
Single A No Limit Hold'em at 7:15 p.m. with $60 buy-in/$17 entry fee and $7,500 in chips, ($3,000 guaranteed*).

Fridays
No Limit Hold'em at 11:15 a.m. with $50 buy-in/$12 entry fee and $5,000 in chips.
No Limit Hold'em at 7:15 p.m. with $100 buy-in/$22 entry fee and $15,000 in chips,
($4,000 guaranteed*).

Saturdays
No Limit Hold'em at 10:15 a.m. with $100 buy-in/$22 entry fee and $10,000 in chips.
No Limit Hold'em at 7:15 p.m. with $100 buy-in/$22 entry fee and $10,000 in chips,
($4,000 guaranteed*).

Sundays
No Limit Hold'em at 10:15 a.m. with $100 buy-in/$22 entry fee and $10,000 in chips.
No Limit Hold'em at 7:15 p.m. with $60 buy-in/$17 entry fee and $10,000 in chips.

*80 Participants required for first place guarantee, otherwise regular prize pool applies. Registration begins one hour prior for morning tournaments and two hours prior for evening tournaments.

RETAIL THERAPY

The Quarter's newest store - Brookstone.

There's nothing like the smile that results from a thoughtful gift. Brookstone has done all the thinking for you- simply choose from our selection of birthday gifts for men, groomsmen gifts and unique gifts for her! Find gifts that are clever, distinctive and innovative-just like the person you're shopping for. Opens July 3rd!

Barron Gentlemen - This celebrated style maker will offer 50-75% off select merchandise in July.

Salsa Shoes - Put your best foot forward when you buy one item at regular price and get the second of equal or lesser value half-off.

DIAMOND DEALS
The value of Diamonds has never been higher. The Tropicana Casino & Resort has unveiled its all new Diamond Club, complete with a new look, new member benefits and three reward levels. The new cards and benefits are available to Tropicana players this April. Don't have a Diamond Card? With these exciting offers, there's never been a better time to join.

Tropicana's Havana Passport to Savings - Full of valuable offers from Rí-Rá Irish Pub, Corky's Ribs & BBQ, Red Square, Carmine's and more. To receive your Passport to Savings, simply present your Diamond Club Card at the Promotions Booth.

2X Cashback for New Members - All new Diamond Club members will now get Free Parking in addition to earning an amazing 2X Cashback, redeemable on their next trip to the Tropicana. Cashback is redeemable for up to 90 days from the date earned. New members can sign up for their free Diamond Club card at the Promotions Booth located on the casino floor, or online at www.tropicana.net. (Card must be picked up card at the Promotions Booth. New members will begin earning cashback the day they pick up their card).

For complete offer details, or to sign up for a free Diamond Club Card, visit the Promotions Booth located on the casino floor or in The Quarter. All promotions are subject to change.

INCLUSIVE PACKAGES

Romantic Getaway Package - The Romantic Getaway package includes a room in the Havana Tower, a $75 Gift Card redeemable in select retail outlets and restaurants in Tropicana and The Quarter, continental breakfast for two (one day only), two revue show tickets in the Tropicana Showroom*, health club admission and late check-out (at 2 p.m.). All for $133/person for the one-night package and $213/person for the two-night package July - August, 2008.

Night of Laughs Comedy Stop Package - This package includes luxurious accommodations, two drinks at Tango's Lounge and two Comedy Stop show tickets (does not include the two-drink minimum, must be 21 years of age or older). Only $80/person for the one-night package and $140/person for the two-night package July - August, 2008.

Girlfriends Getaway Package - Girl power hits Tropicana with the ultimate Girlfriends Getaway. This package includes luxurious accommodations, a $200 credit to bluemercury apothecary and spa (for use in the retail store or for spa services - advance reservations required), make-up application for two at bluemercury apothecary and spa, two tickets to a revue show in the Tropicana Showroom*, a $50 Gift Card for shopping or dining redeemable in select retail outlets and restaurants in Tropicana and The Quarter. Just $185/person July - August, 2008.

Taste of Havana Package - This package will include: a hotel room, 2 Revue Show Tickets, and "15 Tastes Dinner" for 2 at Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar.
Package price is $167.00.

Taste of Havana Package is valid Sunday-Thursday, based on availability July 07-August 28. Romantic Getaway Package, Night of Laughs Comedy Stop Package, and Girlfriends Getaway Package are valid Sunday- Thursday, select dates. Rates are per person, based on double occupancy, and do not include taxes, occupancy fee, and mandatory $1 per day phone charge. *Show Tickets subject to availability, valid for current revue show only, no substitutions. Package rates and inclusions subject to availability and subject to change. To reserve a package, call the Tropicana Reservations line at 1.800.345.8767 or visit the website at www.tropicana.net for more information.

July 12, 2008 - The Bay-Atlantic Symphony conducted by Maestro Jed Gaylin Italian Opera Extravaganza will be featuring Jennifer Casey Cabot (soprano) and Richard Crawley (tenor). For more information about the artists and audio/video samples of their work, click on their names.

• Verdi - La Forza del Destino Overture
• Verdi - La Traviata Prelude to Act III
• Verdi - La Traviata duets and Arias from Act I
  • • Jennifer Casey Cabot (soprano)
    • Richard Crawley (tenor)
• Bellini - Norma Overture
• Leoncavallo - "Vesti la giubba" from Pagliacci
  • • Richard Crawley (tenor)
• Puccini - "Chi bel sogno" from La Rondine
  • • Jennifer Casey Cabot (soprano)
• Puccini - "E Lucevan le stelle" from Tosca
  • • Richard Crawley (tenor).
• Puccini - "Si, mi chiamano Mimi " from La Bohème
  • • Jennifer Casey Cabot (soprano).
• Puccini -"O soave fanciulla" from La Bohème
  • • Jennifer Casey Cabot (soprano)
    • Richard Crawley (tenor)

** Tickets for the Avalon Performing Arts Council (APAC) sponsored concerts are $10.00 and can be purchased at the Sturdy Bank, Chamber of Commerce, and Recreation Department (Community Hall) in April. For a listing of other APAC sponsored events, click here.

Avalon Free Public Library sponsored concerts (July 12 and August 23) are free but do require tickets which will be available starting June 1 (for the Italian Extravaganza) and July 1 (for the Tchaikovsky Jubilee).

Programs subject to change. Please call Avalon Free Public Library (609-967-7155) or Send an Email for concert updates.

July 12, 2008 - Post Concert Meet and Greet The Maestro and Musicians - Rocking Chair (upper Level)

Post-concert meet and greet Maestro Jed Gaylin and the musicians and performers of the Bay Atlantic Symphony at the Rocking Chair (2409 Dune Drive). Tickets available at the concert for $20.00 per person or at the Rocking Chair after the concert for $25.00. For more information call 967-3300. Proceeds benefit the Bay-Atlantic Symphony.

July 12, 2008 - Holston Trust 5 Mile Run

Starts at 6:00 a.m. at Community Hall

July 13, 2008 - Avalon Celebrates Tuscany By Sea Weekend July 10th-13th

Avalon celebrates Tuscany By The Sea Weekend July 10th-13th! The big event includes a fundraiser for that benefits the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children, and the Avalon Chamber of Commerce. You're invited to a dinner at Sorella Rose; it's a five-course meal with wines selected to compliment the food. Seating is limited to 30 couples, and tickets are $125/person. Other merchants will help compliment the big weekend, here is a list of what merchants will be doing:

*Sundae Best--Pitzells and ice cream July 12th and 13th, on Saturday and Sunday morning

*Armadillo, Ltd--Catherine Canino trunk show, July 11th-13th

*Avalon Anchorage Marina--Italian-themed breakfast Saturday/Sunday, July 12th-13th

*Preppy Palm--First anniversary with Italian wine and cheese Thursday night, July 10th

*Sol Luna Massage--Nourish Mind, Body and Spirit with a Hot Stone Massage special

*Mind Body Pilates--July 10th, at 6pm, 5th Anniversary with an introductory class for $10, with wine and refreshments. Seating is limited, call for information

Asbury Park

Wednesday, July 9

Phoenix, Hollywood Hangover, Where Tragedy Sleeps, Filter Effect, Head Turn Heroes, Dead Man Anchor at The Stone Pony, 6 pm, all ages

Rick Barry, Doors Captian James Peacock, Christian Beach, Jon Caspi, Greg Wilkens, Dave Pittenger at The Saint, 8 pm

The Scandals, Mission Statement, Mispent Youth, The Creetons at Asbury Lanes, 8 pm, all ages

Thursday, July 10

Tea Leaf Green, The Breakfast at The Stone Pony, 7:30 pm, all ages

Jucifer, Zoroaster, Hunchback at Asbury Lanes, 8 pm

Outside the Box, Roamer, Marble Creek, Miles Brothers featuring Liz at The Saint, 8 pm

Friday, July 11

Metro Man Triathlon

Sasquatch & the Sickabillys, The Chop Tops at Asbury Lanes, 8 pm

Saturday, July 12

All Star Jazz Ensemble Musicians Workshop and Evening Concert presented by N.J. State Conference AFM Musicians Union at Salvation Army building, 805 Asbury Ave., 8:30 am (concert at 7 pm), info: 732-409-6166

Inspector 7, Dark Buster, Wretched Ones, Hammerlock, Hudson Falcons, Turnpike Wrecks, Final Summation, The Project (LV), Niblick Henbane, Last Call Brawl, Step2Far, Band of Felons, The Sirs, Tried and True, Graveyard School, Post No Bills, The STDs, Silver Dollar at The Stone Pony, noon

Metro Man Triathlon Expo in the Grand Arcade, 4-8 pm

Carmen with mezzo-soprano Mabel Ledo and Crystal Amendola as Micaela, conductor Anton Coppola, Metro Lyric Opera 50th Anniversary Season, Paramount Theatre, 8 pm

Sunday, July 13

Metro Man Triathlon sponsored by New York Life, racing begins at 6:30 am, awards ceremony 10:30 am at the Beach Bar, south side of Convention Hall

All-ages matinee featuring Silent Reconcilation, Lights On 9, Cop Drama, A Mans All, Dream Thief, Red Sea Affair, West Side Drive at The Saint, 1 pm

Help Wipe Out Melanoma benefit The Dirtbombs, The Brimstones, Big Fun, The Lost Crusaders at Asbury Lanes, 2 pm, all ages

Long Beach Island (LBI)

Launch of Puppy Pacer
Dates: Saturdays, Sundays, Weekends, Everyday, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays May 16, 2008 through August 6, 2008
Description:

See Spot, See Spot Run, Run Spot Run!! Puppy Pacer is a group established by Ross McGraw, an accomplished distance runner who is putting his endurance to use. Ross initially started Puppy Pacers at Long Beach Island (NJ), where he has spent every summer of his life and has competed in the Dog Day Race multiple times. If you are interested in having your pet take a test run and be evaluated by Puppy Pacers, please email puppypacer@gmail.com.

Organization: Puppy Pacer
Contact Info:
Ross McGraw
Phone: 717.557.4801
puppypacer@gmail.com
Web Site: http://puppypacer.blogspot.com/

Chicago
Dates: Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays July 1, 2008 through July 20, 2008
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Surflight Theatre
Community: Beach Haven
Contact Info:
Box Office
Phone: 609-492-9477
tickets@surflight.org
Web Site: http://www.surflight.org

Erma / Cape May

July 12, 2008 Civil War Union Encampment

Historic Cold Spring Village
720 Route 9
Cape May, 08204
Phone: (609) 898-2300, x.17
Contact name: Jim Stephens
jstephens@hcsv.org www.hcsv.org

Army of the Potomac Company D, 12th NJ Volunteers demonstrate camp life, infantry tactics and a Civil War field hospital.

Stone Harbor

July 12, 2008 - Revitalized 58th Annual Antiques Show

Sponsored by the Women's Civic Club
Stone Harbor Elem School - 93rd Street & Third Ave
For more information - 368-5004

Sea Isle City

July 10, 2008
Family Night Dance Party, 7:30PM

July 12, 2008
Blackthorn Rugby Football Club Tournament, Dealy Field,
59th St. & Central Ave., 9:30AM-5PM, 263-0050
July 12, 2008
Beach Patrol Mascot Races, 44th St. Beach,
10:30AM-12:15PM, 263-3655

July 13, 2008
Phillies Home Run Derby, ages 7-15, boys and girls, Dealy Field, 59th St. & Central Ave., 12PM, 263-0050

Wildwoods

July 11 - 13 2008

New Jersey State BBQ Championship

2nd and New Jersey Avenues, North Wildwood. Mouth watering barbeque and free family fun! Fri: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m., Sat: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sun: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. 609.523.6565 or http://www.njbbq.com

July 7 - 12, 2008

Dance Xplosion National Finals Dance Competition

The Wildwoods Convention Center. National dance competition finals from studios all over the country competing for cash and prizes. 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. Daily. Free admission. http://www.dancexplosiontalent.com

Attending this event? Click for Convention Housing.

July 11 - 13, 2008

Anglesea Blues Festival

Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood.Smokin' hot blues on outdoor stage, in neighboring clubs. Great national and regional acts. Runs in conjunction with the New Jersey State BBQ Championship.

Main Stage Schedule

FRIDAY  JULY 11, 2008

BlueBone   5-7

bluebone

Patrick Droney  7:30-10:30

www.patrickdroney.com

SATURDAY JULY 12, 2008
Chili Stu  11:30-2:00

chilistu

Bud Light Wing Challenge  2-3:30

BD Mylo & Go Daddy,  3:30 - 6:30

www.bdmylo.com/

Mighty Lester  7:30-10:30

www.mightylesterband.com

SUNDAY  JULY 13, 2008

Grant Austin Taylor Band  11:30 - 1:30

http://grantaustintaylor.com/

New Jersey State Barbecue Championship Awards 3:00

Zydeco-A-Go-Go 1:30-3:00   &  4-5:30

http://home.earthlink.net/~petegumbo/

Ocean City

July 12, 2008

Ocean City Barons Soccer

Home game vs. Long Island Rough Riders, 7:30pm at Carey Stadium, 6th St.. Tickets available at the gate - adults $6/youth $4. For more information call: 609-525-9999.

I met a very energetic Motorcycle enthusiast by the name of Heather Feimer a few months back. I was looking for a story on an event she manages in Toms River, NJ just outside Seaside Heights. We never got a chance to do the interview because she was busy helping to take care of her sister Christina Jean Figel (photo right) who locked in mortal combat fighting for her life. She heard those words, "You have Breast Cancer". I'm very sorry to say Christina didn't win the fight. The Experience The Shore staff and friends express our deepest condolences. But thats not enough . Now Heather, a strong woman with a great resolve refuses to let that fight end. No one is immune from cancer and research is the only way to find a cure.

Consider for a moment that if each one of you out here just Donated $20.00 to this cause, we could make a difference in at least one persons life. The Blog has made a donation of $20.00 I challenge anyone reading this to match us. Do it for your Mom, your Sister or best of all do it for Christina.

We Walk Cause that's what Christina Wants!

My biggest hero is my sister Christina Jean Figel (Sept 18, 1967 - June 2, 2008). She fought hard and long and fought the good fight, but in the end God saw her getting tired and said come with me. He needed her more there and I'm selfish for I still need her here. She was a ray of light that the world will miss, from home, to NYC, to England, to Spain, New Zealand and places beyond...

So she went into the night, I can’t say without fear and I can’t say without worry, but I can say she was strong, and she fought, and she wanted to live. Whether we fought or she told me she loved me, I was honored to be her sister for the 36 years of my life that I shared with her.

And you can be a part of it, too.

I have signed up to walk and hope you will join me in my effort by signing up to join my team or making a donation in support of my participation. Hope starts with us.

I am just a Mom, just a working mom living an ordinary life with my husband, in an unbelievable situation.
Three weeks ago Monday I lost my sister to breast cancer. A 16 month battle which ended far too early and with far too much suffering.

My children were never lied to and watched what and when they felt they needed to. Not only did they care for her during and after surgery, chemo, radiation but they were there by her side in her final days.

My husband supported her in every way possible way, whether just being in the room and offering not to watch NASCAR or sitting and talking (even though he is a man of few words). In her last weeks, we opened our home to friends and family, providing housing and love to all who loved her until her final breath and even after.

We may not be the perfect family, and now we are certainly one short of ever getting there, for she was the most brilliant and vivacious one of all. Christina was loved, totally, completely, unconditionally by so many; her immediate family (Parents Don & Jean, brother Matt, nieces Brandi & Cali, nephew Mikey, brother in Law Mike, Cousins - Kathy, Sue, Carol, Sharon, Bobby, Matt and MJ and me), and her friends (Robert and Kathy, Zoe, Ida, Damon, Andrew, Christine, Tammy, Stacy, all of Random House, her Yoga Hoboken Friends , and all her friends worldwide, Rachel, Jules, Darrin, Martin, Penny, Mel, Richard, Max and so many others).
We loved her and she will be missed but never far from the most important part of our lives, our souls.

------

This year, hundreds of thousands of people will hear the words "You have breast cancer," and there's a good chance that some of them will be people we know and love. I have chosen to fight back against this disease and help make a difference by participating in the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, and I hope you will join me by making a donation in support of my effort.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a noncompetitive walk that takes place in 120 communities across the country. From Arizona to Maine and Washington to Florida, Making Strides walkers unite to honor breast cancer survivors and to educate women about early detection and prevention. And of course, by raising money to support the American Cancer Society fight against breast cancer, we help fund groundbreaking research, public awareness campaigns, efforts to ensure all women have access to mammograms, and free programs and services that improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

I hope you will support my efforts by making a donation using my personal online fund raising page. It's safe and simple. All you have to do is click the link below and follow the few easy steps. Last year, 450,000 Making Strides participants raised $45 million ... and they did it one donation at a time. So, whether you're able to give $5 or $500, every bit truly does help. Hope starts one dollar at a time. Hope starts with me. And hope can start with you.

Thank you in advance for any support you may be able to offer.