Letter from the editor
As winter lingers, many of us find comfort in dreaming of summer—long days, golden sunsets and the soothing rhythm of waves meeting the shore. For Bob and me, that vision always includes Friday nights at the Somers Point Beach. We wrap up our week in lawn chairs, feet in the sand, listening to some of the best live music around. The bay stretches before us, boats anchored nearby to join the audience, while the music becomes the heartbeat of it all, bringing the community together in a way that feels timeless. We dance, clap, hug and greet friends and neighbors. It’s more than a concert—it’s a celebration of what makes Somers Point special.
This tradition owes much of its success to Tony Mart Presents, led by Carmen Marotta. Carmen is the son of Anthony Marotta, the legendary owner of Tony Mart’s, the iconic music venue that made Somers Point a live music mecca decades ago. For over 30 years, Carmen and his team have worked tirelessly to uphold that legacy. They’ve brought world-class musicians to our beach, secured sponsorships, and fostered an atmosphere that attracts thousands every Friday night, from longtime locals to first-time visitors.
But now, this cherished tradition is in jeopardy. Somers Point City Council has decided to open the concert series to bids, potentially taking it away from the team that built it into what it is today. As my dad used to say, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” So I can’t help but wonder: Why now? Is there a budget issue? Couldn’t adjustments be made to the existing contract, as Councilwoman Janice Johnston suggested, without risking everything that makes these concerts so special?
If you love these concerts as much as Bob and I do, now is the time to speak up. Let your city officials know how important this series is—not just as entertainment, but as a cornerstone of our community.
The coming weeks will determine whether this tradition remains under the trusted leadership of Tony Mart Presents or takes an uncertain new direction. Let’s ensure that the sounds of summer continue to echo across Somers Point Beach, just as they always have.
Peace & Love,
Cindy
