Views from the Shore
By Brian Cahill
The holidays are the perfect time of year to take a step back, reflect, and appreciate the people who have influenced us and changed the direction of our lives. I look back on my start in marketing in this area, and it’s because of two people that I am here. The first is one of my mentors, marketing guru Valerie McGonigal, who took a chance on me when she hired me as a publicist at Caesars, and the second is Gary Poetsch.
Gary was in HR at the time when I was interviewing with Val, and it was he who I pestered day and in day out to see if I got the job. Though I was quite annoying, Gary was kind and patient, and kept telling me they would be in touch with a decision. He did so, always in a friendly manner and with his signature chuckle. Looking back, Gary could’ve easily told of my impatience to Val, and recommended passing on me for the job. But he didn’t, and I was hired shortly thereafter.
Fast forward to today. Gary now works for Shore Physicians Group, and though our careers took different twists and turns, we once again ended up in the same place. One day we were reminiscing about our days at Caesars during Miss America, and he told me that one of his “Bucket List” items was to drive a float in a parade.
As soon as he said it, I knew it was time to return the favor for Gary who helped me years ago. Shore was one of the 50 attractions set to participate in the Somers Point Christmas parade. We had the truck, the lights, the staff, two dogs, and our FIN the Dolphin ambassador, but we needed a driver. I approached Gary, and he agreed before I could finish my sentence.
We met at the starting point, and I could see the magic of the season in Gary’s eyes, especially when he saw a group of Mummers. He really was like a kid at Christmas. He climbed into driver’s seat, and the rest of us hopped in the back, and we were off.
“Kudos to the Somers Point Historical Society for organizing an incredible event for the community, and to the Somers Point Police Department for their support,” said Gary. “I couldn’t believe how many people came out for it. Shore Road was lined with people of all ages, and when we got to Charlie’s they were lined up three and four deep. I’ve never driven in something like that….it was awesome!
“Driving our attraction was a lot of fun, but I did have to make sure I focused on what was in front of me and not get distracted by the cheering of the crowds,” added Gary. “At any point, someone could’ve tried to cross the road, and I stayed alert to that. But I also made sure to enjoy the moment. It was always something I wanted to do.”
The Somers Point Christmas parade lived up to the hype, and likely exceeded the expectations of those who planned and participated in it. If you were there, I know you’d agree, and if not, hopefully you will come out next year. As for Gary, it was time to check off a box on his bucket list. I asked what was next for him and he said with a chuckle, “I don’t know, maybe I’ll fly an airplane.”
I wish him luck with that, but I’ll likely sit that one out. Happy Holidays everyone!
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He is also on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
