By Delaney Crawford
The smell of fresh pizza filled Happy Eatery on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 21. More than 40 community members gathered for a good cause and a slice of some of the area’s best pies at 715 E. Eighth St. in Ocean City.
Held from 2 to 5 p.m., the first-ever pizza tasting contest invited guests to vote for the Best Pizza in Cape May and Atlantic counties while raising much needed funds for two local residents, John Scalella and Ed Neel.
Six local pizza spots generously donated their time and food for the event, including Ventura’s Offshore Café, Mamma Mia’s Ristorante, Mario’s Pizza & Restaurant, Little Italy, Mitchelli’s Pizza and Mike & Anna’s. Each restaurant brought three pies, giving attendees plenty to sample. At the end of the afternoon, Ventura’s Offshore Café took home the trophy, but everyone walked away a winner, enjoying great pizza while getting to support our neighbors in need.
The event was organized by the board of People in Crisis Inc. (PICI), a local nonprofit founded in 2003 with a mission to help individuals who “fall between the cracks” of traditional support systems, especially when it comes to healthcare and financial crises.
This fundraiser hosted by PICI was held to help two local men, John Scalella and Ed Neel.
John’s face was assaulted multiple times, severely affecting his jawbone. As a result, everyday functions like eating and speaking have become incredibly difficult. He requires specialized dental implants to restore his basic quality of life, but insurance will not cover the procedures. The cost is overwhelming, and without assistance, he remains in a painful and uncertain situation. For John, this fundraiser represents more than financial support; it represents dignity.
Ed Neel, a Vietnam veteran, is facing a different kind of battle. He needs a fence around his home to feel safe, as ongoing fear and stress have severely impacted his heart and pulmonary health. Something as simple as security and peace of mind could dramatically improve his daily life. For Ed, feeling safe at home is not a luxury; it is essential to his well-being.
While their needs differ, both men are facing battles they cannot fight alone.
The organization’s founder, Lana Samuels, who serves as president, shared that PICI was originally created upon a doctor’s suggestion. “She encouraged me to form a 501(c)(3) that could be used to help those in need.”
Today, the organization helps local individuals who are each either navigating the complexities of the healthcare system or experiencing severe living crises.
She explained that the people PICI serves are overwhelmed by medical systems, financial strain or both. The organization conducts research, connects them to resources and provides financial assistance whenever possible.
In addition to the pizza tasting, the afternoon featured free prizes for kids, refreshments, Johnson’s Popcorn, movie watching, card and board games, and a silent auction that helped raise additional funds.
PICI is also currently selling “Ticket for Life” booklets for John and Ed, offering discounts to multiple local businesses for a full year. Tickets are priced at one for $20, three for $50 or 10 for $100.
The turnout for the fundraiser exceeded expectations.
“It was absolutely wonderful. I’m glad everyone had fun and enjoyed the food. All of us board members are so grateful for the businesses that donated the pizza and supported the event,” said Samuels.
Between the laughter, shared stories and slices of pizza, the afternoon proved something simple but powerful.
