Local leaders share their resolutions
By Scott Cronick
There’s a lot of new things happening in 2025!
Some good, some bad, you be the judge.
We have a new president, who is actually a former president, taking office. We will have a new governor elected. Local developers and entrepreneurs will try to make Atlantic County more diverse, including a new gay club and bar called The Byrd Cage in Atlantic City. Casino projects will be led by massive renovations and some new offerings at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. Internet gaming continues to explode. And we all hope prices drop while incomes rise, but no promises there.
Three years removed from a pandemic, remember things could always be worse. Whenever you think you’re having a bad year, think of COVID, so I am optimistic about 2025. In 2024, I lost 180 pounds, continued to enjoy my role to help beautify Atlantic City with the MBCA Foundation and continued to accept the reality that I am married to the greatest woman ever. This year, I hope some of the projects I have in the fire come to life, want Atlantic City Wing Fest 2025 on Feb. 1 at Golden Nugget to sell out again, to travel to Europe with my 81-year-old mom and family, see as many concerts as I can, and that I continue my healthy journey.
So, I asked my family, friends, local celebrities, national celebrities, politicians and those in my life whose opinion matters, what they hope to accomplish or see in the new year.
Most of all, I hope all of the below resolutions – and yours – come true. The old sports betting adage of being due couldn’t be more appropriate for the new year.
We are due – all of us – for a better 2025!
Happy New Year!!!
LaRissa Cronick, Wife
I would like to get back into reading. My goal is 25 books in 2025!
Sam Cronick, Son
Going into this year, I would like to focus on introducing more discipline into my life, in all aspects. Whether that be work, education, diet, exercise and most importantly, the relationships/family I am fortunate enough to have. It is really easy to cast discipline aside when you already think you are doing your best, but we are always capable of more.
Nancy Cronick, Mom
My wish is that I remain in good health along with Scott, his wife LaRissa and my grandson Sam and extended family and friends. I plan on working with the Dupont Lions Club planning events to make our community a better place to live.
Greg Perks, Father-in-Law
I will be doing sit-ups every day along with some cardio work. I just need to be healthier. I’m also going to be nicer to people.
Charles Perks, Brother-in-Law
For 2025, I resolve to quit smoking before my 35th birthday. I resolve to be more resolved. And I resolve to live boldly, but love carefully.
Denny Levinson, Atlantic County Executive
Number one priority is the aviation park so we can continue to diversifying our economy. I am also hoping that the municipalities that have not joined our countywide municipal court will realize the savings is over 45% to their taxpayers. We have 10 in 13 to go. And of course, health and happiness to all.
Brian Cahill, Marketing Director, Shore Medical Center
To learn conversational Spanish, so I can become a more valuable resource at Shore, have a greater impact as a teacher and a better teammate on the soccer field.
Cindy Fertsch, Co-Owner, Shore Local Magazine
I resolve to prioritize my health and well-being — to carve out more time to exercise and eat home-cooked meals. I also hope to spend less time on my computer and more time sharing experiences and laughter with the people I love.
Bob Fertsch, Co-Owner, Shore Local Magazine
I resolve to live in the moment. Enjoy the here and now. Spend less energy worrying about the uncertainty of the future and thinking back to the past. I like the quote “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.” Life is a long journey, one we take with others so enjoy the ride!
Jeff Van Drew, United States Congressman
Last year I made many resolutions and came close to keeping all of them. This year: (1) Don’t sweat the little things. So many big things to worry about don’t worry about the small stuff. (2) Always maintain a sense of humor through it all. (3) Fight hard as hell for what is right.
Vince Polistina, State Senator
I look forward to spending more time with Carolyn and my family, given that our twins will be graduating high school in 2025. I also look forward to building on the successes Don Guardian, Claire Swift and I have had to chart a new path forward for Atlantic City and our region.
George Goldhoff, President, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
(Mr. Goldhoff sent 10 resolutions, so we picked our favorites). Enhance communication skills, foster a strong company culture, commit to continuous learning, innovate and drive change and work on personal development.
Mark Giannantonio, President and CEO, Resorts Casino Hotel
Continue to work with my colleagues in town along with state and local authorities to continue to transform Atlantic City into a world-class destination!
Tom Pohlman, Sr. Vice President and General Manager, Golden Nugget Atlantic City
Focusing on spending more time with those I love and not taking them, or the time I have left with them, for granted.
Joe Bertolino, President, Stockton University
Resolution: More time with dad!
Goal: Help make Stockton a household name!
Marty Small, Atlantic City Mayor
For Atlantic City and the Small family to have the GREATest 2025!
John Schultz and Gary Hill, Founders, MBCA Foundation and Schultz-Hill Foundation
Our New Year’s Resolution/Wish is to keep working for our community as we have done for many years and to help promote and support the newest gay restaurant and bar in Atlantic City: “The Byrd Cage!” Best of luck on this exciting new adventure in A.C. for 2025.
Vince Mazzeo, B.F. Mazzeo Co-Owner, Former State Assemblyman
Continue to make BF Mazzeo’s a better shopping experience, spend more time with family. I know a little Spanish and Italian, so I’d like to speak more fluently and I going to try this year.
Paul Kelly, Longport Media President and General Manager
I want to focus more on my physical health and relaxation in 2025. While I’m at it, I resolve to read more books and look at the screen less.
Claire Swift, State Assemblywoman
To win my third term in the N.J. Assembly with Don Guardian and Jack Ciattarelli for Governor in 2025!
Joe Berg, Chief of Staff, Sen. Vince Polistina
I don’t really do resolutions, I just hope to continue to work to be the best man I can be in all facets. Most importantly, being the best father I can be to my boys.
Kaleem Shabazz, Atlantic City Councilman
I wish (1) that the residents of Stanley Holmes will have their “quality of life issues resolved”; (2) that the Housing Authority becomes “partners for progress” rather than courtroom adversaries; (3) I hope for a higher level of safety in all areas of Atlantic City; (4) I resolve to increase my efforts to move Atlantic City forward; (5) to ensure that our local veteran community of color is properly recognized for their heroism, sacrifice as we celebrate 100 years of the All Wars Memorial Building (Dedicated Aug. 15, 1925).
Anthony Catanoso, Co-Owner, Steel Pier
My New Year’s “intentions” are: (1) keep family happy and safe; (2) have the grand opening of the new crazy crab coaster on Steel Pier; (3) continue to do my part in the promotion and advancement for tourism and family entertainment in Atlantic City, especially the North Beach initiative; (4) continue our charitable work throughout the City. The list of intentions will grow as the year progresses.
Sharon Franz, Sales & Marketing Director, Steel Pier
Since I turned 62 in December, I am more committed about being healthy, eating right, continue doing Pilates. Time is going by so fast. I cannot believe I am 62. You all of a sudden look in the mirror and are like, “Oh my goodness … time is flying.” Oh, and I don’t want to forget that I am absolutely working on bettering my golf game because that will be my future when I retire. And I may want to squeeze in there maybe possibly meeting someone.
James Sarkos, Atlantic City Chief of Police
Continue to strengthen community trust while reducing crime and improving public safety.
Will Reynolds, Atlantic County Prosecutor
My New Year’s resolution is to be to grateful every day for all the blessings bestowed upon myself, my family and the agency.
Rebecca Thiry, Ocean Casino Resort Advertising and Media Director
Travel with our daughter abroad this year.
Jamie Hoagland, Resorts Casino Hotel Director of Advertising and Public Relations
I would like to get up earlier and work out in the mornings (not after work), spend more time outside and learn to make sourdough bread. I also want to do a trip to a national park.
Jon Henderson, Entrepreneur, Good Time Tricycle Founder
My New Year’s resolution is to keep my unsolicited opinion to myself. I’ve noticed more and more people are just throwing their opinions out there with little to no information or just to hear themselves talk. I know I’m equally as guilty. Honestly, I probably have an easier time if my New Year’s resolution was to lose 100 pounds … lol!
Larry Alexander, General Manager, OVG Hospitality, Boardwalk Hall and Convention Center
I would like to accomplish assisting the youth in Atlantic City with an opportunity to learn culinary skills and provide them with the necessary tools they need to assist with their success in life.
Joe Martucci, Meteorologist
(1) Not eat when I’m already full. (2) Write a list of two things I’m grateful for each day.
Doug Deutsch, National Musical Publicist, Music Columnist
In 2025, I’d like to try and finally put on my own blues show of original bands, something I’ve wanted to do since moving back to A.C.. Has to be the right situation, venue … probably Anchor Rock Club. But that’s what’s on the hope-to-do list. I look forward to giving more coverage to all the rising talent in our area via my column in Shore Local.
Connor Price, Vice President, Tower Investments
My goal for 2025 is to set myself and my future wife, Lindsay Coloma, up for a successful wedding and marriage, which is slated for October. We have been together nearly five years, and she’s the love of my life, my best friend. Cheers to the biggest year of our life !
Harvey Kesselman, former Stockton University President
To remain fully committed to the economic development of Atlantic City and our region.
Frank Trifiletti, Co-Owner, Rose’s Garden Grill
I would like to continue to improve my health. I would also like to continue to come up with innovative sandwiches and salads that are popular right now all over the globe. I would also like to implement a pasta dish on the specials, each and every day.
Personally, I would like to improve on being a better example to my children and my employees. And, most importantly, I would like to try to be the best husband I can be to my wonderful wife.
As I am older now and supposed to be wiser, I realize that working on things day in and day out one day at a time is the best measurement to improve myself over time. For the most part, I am thankful for the place and direction me my family and my operation are going.
Joe Lupo, Hard Rock Las Vegas President
I look to spend more time with my children and granddaughter, improve my health and travel to Italy.
Peter Caporilli, Entrepreneur, Founder of Principle Academy Charter
I resolve to gain independence from the stranglehold of time. Every time I can remove a clock or timer from any process with I am involved, I will endeavor to do so.
Vinny D’Allessandro, Director of Government Banking, OceanFirst Bank
What I am doing slightly different heading into 2025 is holding my team more accountable for using “we and us” instead of “I and me.” I’m building out their goals that are more tied to what are “we are going to accomplish for the year,” as opposed to what they individually will be responsible for. Trying to add balance to how we think.
Jose Garces, Restaurateur and Iron Chef
I’m working on just being a better listener in 2025, So many times I find myself eagerly waiting to get my point across vs. listening and absorbing what’s being communicated to me. #mindfulnessgoals2025
Jackie Martling, Comedian
I’m 76 … my 2025 New Year’s Resolution is to make it to 2026.
Scott Stetzer, Realtor, former Press of A.C. photographer
New Year’s. Possessive.
As we make our way through this life … New Year’s. Possessive.
We cannot pick nor choose our next year. We can only think about and conquer our past … but, New Year’s. Possessive.
Last year, I had cancer.
This year, I don’t.
Resolutions often don’t last longer than a dozen eggs.
New Year’s. Possessive.
2025.
I’m not looking inward for answers. I’ll look outward.
If you need love. I give you resolutions.
If you’re hungry, I’ll resolve to feed you.
If you have more questions than answers … sit down next to me.
Our world is so small.
Resolution. Let’s call it every day.
Leslie Daniel, Executive Chef, Kuro
For me, I have two: To learn a new skill every month that can make be a better chef; and to eat at at least two new places once a month. Living in the tri-state area, there are so many great places to get new inspiration.
Anthony Gaud, Gaud-Hammer Gaming Group Co-Founder, Forces Behind Science Fiction podcaster
My New Year’s resolution is to live in the moment and not let the future stress me out. Let’s make the most of this life while I have it.
Noel Stevenson, Regional Director of Marketing & Communications, Caesars Entertainment
Spend more time on Off the press with Scott Cronick … a weekly series!
Sean Patrick, Longport Media Promotions Director, and WMGM 103.7-FM On-Air Personality and Assistant Program Director
Turn the page on all the toxicity and look forward. Also, lose a few pounds!
Don Williams, Radio Talk Show Host on Newstalk 1400-AM WOND
I would like to lose weight and be able to keep it off.
Chuck Darrow, Journalist and Musician
I say it every year, but this is the year I START smoking!!! But seriously, I plan on 2025 being the year I get back to the poker tables on a regular basis (haven’t played regularly since before the pandemic).
Dave Sholler, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment and Philadelphia 76ers Chief Communications Officer
In 2025, I am determined to help Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment continue to solidify its place as one of the most impactful sports and entertainment portfolios in the world. On the personal side, I am looking forward to spending another great summer with my family in our favorite place: Brigantine!
Samantha Kiley, Vice President, Community Health & Social Impact, AtlantiCare
Personal: Get in more steps — at least 10,000 steps — most days of the week.
Professional: Restore at least eight housing units in Midtown Atlantic City in 2025.
Linda Shields, Jersey Shore Medium
I don’t think making resolutions are a good idea because they usually do fail, but what I’d like to accomplish this year is to get healthier, I don’t particularly think I’m gonna exercise more, per say, but I am definitely going to eat better and take care of health issues right away instead of ignoring them and hoping they go away! Have three new grandsons, and I want to stick around to see them grow!
Brian O’Halloran, Actor (“Clerks”)
I resolve to saying “No” more. I found myself saying “Yes” to please others and regretting it later. It can apply to many things: food, drinks, attending events, etc.
Mary Ellen Spiers, Great Bay Racquet & Fitness
Nothing exciting … just determined to declutter my garage and attic. I’ve been in my house for 30 years and have accumulated too much s–t!!!
Bobby Hettmannsperger, Il Porcellino Italian Market, Essl’s Dugout Co-Owner
To accomplish, I guess. Provide our great community the best product for the most economical price.
Tom Foley, former State Assemblyman
I would like to see the development of high speed trains along the Parkway and Expressway to enhance our resort with residences that would improve our city and enjoy this once great City of Atlantic City!
Dan and Sandy Greenberg, South Jersey Smoke House Co-Owners
My resolutions usually last about a month. Sandy and I want to keep expanding our business and introducing our smoked salmon (and other products) to more and more people.
Keith Dawn, former Press of Atlantic City Publisher, Strategic Growth Partners Founder
I stopped doing New Year’s resolutions years ago. I go to the gym year-round, and the regulars and I get a little frustrated when the gym gets crowded in January. But we always reassure ourselves that it will level out by Feb. 1. Resolutions are built on arbitrary dates and fleeting motivation, not genuine commitment. Most people set unrealistic goals fueled by “new year, new me” hype, without a solid plan or sustainable habits. I learned long ago to embrace a lifestyle centered on productivity, health and relentless pursuit of difficult, yet attainable goals. Growth doesn’t wait for Jan. 1 — every day is an opportunity to push boundaries and make meaningful progress.
Stephen Weiss, NorStep Productions Co-Owner
2024 is over and, like most in recent times, it was one heck of a roller-coaster ride. 2025 starts off promising, and the year ahead looks like it is gonna be a good one. NorStep wants to continue our mission to advance the cannabis commerce of Atlantic City through 420 lifestyle events. We are currently working with multiple dispensaries to bring you enjoyment past point of purchase. With events on the horizon that will go bigger than we have in the past, a new venue opportunity just around the corner, and the cannabis businesses NorStep is most closely associated with starting to begin operations, I see 2025 as a year of progress in entertainment and cannabis for me and NorStep.
Lauren and Paul Erbacher, Owners, Hammerbacher
For the business, lead with authenticity and continue to inspire. Let creativity be our guide. Personally, recommit to fun. For now: happy, healthy, sweet!
Jason Goldfarb, Co-owner, Near Dark Entertainment
Looking to be more involved in the indie music scene, a place I’ve been involved in since I started booking shows at age 14. Also, I’m looking to cut out the sweats and make an effort to work out again.
Joseph Lautato, Co-Owner, Café 2825
New Year’s Resolution: Spend more time with our two wonderful grandchildren and pray for our daughter, who lives locally, to deliver us our third healthy and loving grandchild.
To Accomplish: Make the Brighton Avenue Area safer and cleaner with our hard work.
Alisa Cooper, Vice Chair, New Jersey Casino Control Commissioner
I hope this will be the year I finally complete the book I’ve been working on for several years. It will be a fascinating collection of stories, memories, and photos of Atlantic City. My book will include anecdotes and memories about local politics, grand hotels, restaurants, and memorable spots in old Atlantic City, as well as interesting people and politicians I’ve had the chance to meet and interview. It promises to be an engaging read!
Aram Mardigian, Executive Chef, American Bar & Grille
I’m going to refocus on my health and well being because it seems to enhance all other areas of my life. I also want to give back more this year and do some good charity work. 2025 feels very positive to me.
Dave Weinberg, Sports Journalist and Broadcaster
My first resolution was to give up cursing. I made it to 10:10 am on New Year’s Day. My other one was to give up Tequila. I made it to 10:11 am New Year’s Day.
Dave Bontempo, Sports Journalist and Broadcaster
Treasure this sweet life. Savor the deep satisfaction of professional accomplishment and the joy of people and animals who lift our hearts. Applaud the journey of others. And sip life, one nuance at a time. This is a victory lap.
Butch Bradley, Comedian
My New Year’s Eve resolution is to watch less TikTok and to stop watching that one channel with the group of women that just keeps staring … they don’t speak … they don’t move. They’re just staring into the camera. And I keep repeating my message: Do you need a visa? Do you like older men? Have you ever been to Atlantic City? I can make that happen!
Frank Becktel, Jitney Guy
I’m going to try to stop saying swear words. It’s gonna be f—ing hard!
Cathy Marinucci, Longport Media Sales Consultant
I would like to accomplish more traveling. After college, weddings and grandchildren … now it’s our time!
Jesse O. Kurtz, Atlantic City Councilman
To improve the quality of life for the people I represent in the Lower Chelsea and Chelsea Heights neighborhoods. To visit more attractions and explore more areas of the region, especially through day trips with the family. To help organizations prepare for the new digital accessibility ADA requirements.
David Pena, Owner of Pena Productions and Boogie Nights
To keep my customers and new wife happy, excited and wanting more.
To make The Atlantic City Chapel of Love the premiere Vegas-style wedding destination here in Atlantic City. To keep kicking the Party Live in 2025 at Boogie Nights Nightclub at Tropicana Atlantic City. And to bring as much joy, love, escapism and fun to as many people as possible!
Sonny McCullough, Consultant and former State Senator and Egg Harbor Twp. Mayor
Looking forward to holding the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade ever on the Atlantic City boardwalk on March 8, and seeing the Bader Field project move forward, which would be a huge benefit to the city and the county. Good health to all my friends and family.
Evan Sanchez and Zenith Shah. Authentic City Partners
Continue to build community through our businesses — Hayday Coffee and Cardinal — and our mixed use apartment buildings on New York Avenue and Tennessee Avenue in the heart of Atlantic City’s Orange Loop.
Betty McHugh, Casino Food and Beverage Legend
My big life event this year is planning a wedding for my youngest daughter Michele. I have been so blessed to raise three amazing children who are all now officially adults , raising children of their own. My children are the greatest gift of my life.
Michael Suleiman, Atlantic County Democratic Chairman
My goal is to continue to advocate for bold public policy solutions to solve our problems, such as increasing middle-class housing stock in Atlantic County, implementing our six-point plan for Atlantic City and lowering property taxes to reduce barriers to home ownership.
David Goldstein, President, Professional Chefs Association of South Jersey
First, I want peace. I pray that here in the U.S.A. and abroad that people can all find peace. I have seen firsthand the results of hatred. Let’s all pray and work to have a more peaceful world.
I would like to have more people help our local Community Food Bank of South Jersey, and more chefs and local culinary people get involved with the Professional Chefs association of South Jersey. Both of these great organizations have made me better and can help do a lot of good for everyone involved.
I would like to see people put aside their differences and come together. There is so much we can accomplish when we work together and share our talents to help others as well as ourselves.” I have witnessed this firsthand with the Professional Chefs Association and the Community Food Bank. No one person makes everything happen. Many people come together for these two great organizations and make them successful.
Demetrios Haronis, Director of Culinary, Tropicana
Make time for being healthier and work on increasing the amount of support we give for those that are in need in our area.
Ryan Loughlin, Journalist, E Street Shuffle Guitarist
I look forward to continuing to incorporate the more physical and athletic elements of fun into my life. Hiking, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors, in general, are all on my calendar for the new year.
Sam Giunta, Local Legend and Socialite
I want to live the best I can live.
Mark Haynie, the Beer Guy
Every year in December, we ponder our existence in the last 11 months that felt like a week, and we vow that we will improve in the upcoming year. I tend toward the cliches: eat healthier, lose weight, exercise more, spend less. But while navigating our daily lives, the resolutions fade into the background and don’t re-enter the mind until the next December … starting the cycle over again.
Adam Berardo, Musician, 1adam12
Gotta finish recording Malcolm Tent’s new record in the home studio. Possibly start a new group … any Rickenbass players and solid ’n dynamic drummers out there?
Mike the Bread Man, Friend, WOND listener and bread delivery man
I would like to accomplish taking a proper vacation, maybe to Ireland or Scotland.
Kevin Cronin, Chef
I don’t really have one. If anything, it would be not to almost like in 2024. That would be a tick better
Philip J. Guenther, Superintendent, Atlantic County Special Services School District
I am looking forward to the completion of the new 130,000 sq. ft. ACIT Career and Technical Building for the start of the ’25-‘26 school year. This state-of-the-art facility will provide additional Atlantic County students with access to high tech career programs in Aviation, Health Sciences and Welding Technology
Al Parinello, Surflight Theatre Owner and former WJSE Radio Owner
This year, I will publish my new book, “How to Accomplish the Impossible on a Regular Basis.” It was my 2024 resolution to research and write it.
Scott Cronick is an award-winning journalist who has written about entertainment, food, news and more in South Jersey for nearly three decades. He hosts a daily radio show – “Off The Press with Scott Cronick” – 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Newstalk WOND 1400-AM, 92.3-FM, and WONDRadio.com, and he also co-owns Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall in Atlantic City, while working on various projects, including charitable efforts, throughout the area. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.
