Like every New Year, we all have high hopes.
2025 saw a former president take office for the second time, acquitted a mayor in an Atlantic City that some say overachieved in a very tough national gambling market and elected a back-to-back-to-back Democratic governor for the first time in five decades.
Turbulent indeed.
So, like always, we hope to build on 2025’s successes and failures as we all seek brighter days and bigger fortunes.
Our new Governor Mikey Sherrill will take office, Marty Small just began another four-year term as A.C. mayor, and local entrepreneurs will continue to invest in this area as we will see major Real Estate projects come alive in Atlantic City.
There will be some new Atlantic City projects, including a new interactive mini golf complex at Ocean casino, a few new restaurants that have not been announced yet — look for a major Mexican restaurant from one of my favorite chefs — and both Atlantic and Pacific avenues are scheduled to be paved.
For me personally, Wing Fest is on pace to once again sell out on Jan. 31. I will soon officially launch a new event — Mexican Madness — for April 25 to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. I hope to continue to keep the weight off and get healthier. I started to play golf in 2025, an obsession that included me playing at least 30 rounds at McCullough’s Emerald Links in Egg Harbor Township, where I can now routinely break 90, something that I never thought would happen. My amazing wife and I traveled extensively, and I was blessed to take my 82-year-old mom to Europe once again.
In 2026, we will continue to travel. My motorcycle brother Jon Henderson and I plan to top our 2025 Deadwood trip with a 2026 journey that has the Alamo in our sights. The MBCA Foundation will see its first Pocket Park come to life on the corner of North Carolina and Pacific avenues thanks to generous donations by George Norcross, Sen. Vince Polistina and AtlantiCare.
So, for 2026 I once again 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.
Happy New Year!!!
LaRissa Cronick, Wife
I’ve been wanting to get my motorcycle license for a long time. This year will be the year!
Brian Cahill, Administrative Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Shore Medical Center
I resolve to teach my dog how to sit, achieve 20 clean pullups, and if the Seattle Mariners get to the playoffs again, to not be too nervous to actually enjoy the experience and actually watch the games.
Bob and Cindy Fertsch, Shore Local Publishers
Bob: I resolve to enjoy where we are right now, appreciate the people around us, and not take the moment for granted. We never really know where the road leads, so we might as well enjoy the ride.
Cindy: I plan to improve the platforms we’ve created. Expand our social media voice, print publication and nonprofit’s advocacy work. Drop the limitations. Drop the fear of hard conversations and stay laser-focused on what matters most to me.
Jeff Van Drew, United States Congressman
I’m staying focused on protecting access to healthcare, tackling the cost of everyday life, lowering energy and utility bills, standing up for our veterans, and keeping our communities safe. These are fights I’ve been in, and I’m pushing them even harder in the year ahead. On a personal note, I’m setting some goals too like stretching my daily run from 4½ to 5½ miles, upping my pullups from 175 to 200 a day, and most importantly, spending more time with my wife, kids, and grandkids.
Vince Polistina, State Senator
I look forward to enhancing relationships with elected officials and stakeholders in the region so that we can collaborate to bring a new legislative framework for Atlantic City and spur reinvestment into the city and region with particular attention to the FAA, airport and emerging aviation industry.
Mark Giannantonio, President and CEO, Resorts Casino Hotel
Work out three days a week!
Joe Bertolino, President, Stockton University
Beginning 2026 with a professional and personal resolution:
Professionally, Stockton will begin a robust and successful implementation of its new strategic plan, strengthening its role in the community and expanding partnerships with local community colleges and school districts.
Personally: My husband and I hope to visit Fatima in Portugal!
John Schultz and Gary Hill, Founders, MBCA Foundation and Schultz-Hill Foundation
Gary: New Year’s resolution is to be able to be with the people that I want to be with, to do the things that I want to do like travel to the places that I want to see and work on the projects I want to do with the charities I want and wish happiness for all of my friends and family in 2026!
John: A Happy New Year and hoping everyone will read the newest author of Atlantic City — “The King of the Clubs” — in 2026 coming soon. You might think you know the real story, but I know the real history, passion and inside stories to keep you all fascinated about the history of gay Atlantic City.
Vinny D’Allessandro, Director of Government Banking, OceanFirst Bank
Thank you for providing an opportunity to those of us like you that are focused on improving the communities in which we live and work. Me and my family are laser-focused in this new year on utilizing our resources to create an environment whereby those who are less fortunate than us are given the chance to develop a core foundation to support building a better life for themselves and their families. We are doing this by volunteering our time to organizations like the No Limits Academy, which was organized to fight the limitations inherent in so many of our communities especially during these polarized times in which we live. We vow to be advocates for those less fortunate than ourselves.
Connor Price, Vice President, Tower Investments
My most important New Year’s resolution is to be the absolute best husband I can be to my wife, tell her I love her all of the time and create amazing experiences with her in this amazing life! We are so blessed!
Harvey Kesselman, former Stockton University President
Now that I have retired from Stockton, my hope is to continue to be actively engaged in our community but in new and different ways.
Kaleem Shabazz, Atlantic City Councilman
It is my desire and intention to focus sharply and consistently on development, public safety, social justice and interfaith cooperation and communication. Increased development will ease the tax burden on residents and enable economic growth. Focus on public safety and increased resources will make residents more secure, visitors more inclined to return and encourage private investment. The pursuit of justice for all makes our region better for all. Interfaith Cooperation and Communication is critical for understanding, peace and civility in a multi-religious area.
Don Guardian, State Assemblyman
Empowering the people of Atlantic City to determine future development by returning zoning and planning under local control. Redirecting funding to the CRDA to take on big projects that will transform the resort. Securing property tax relief for every New Jerseyan.
Joe Berg, Chief of Staff, Sen. Vince Polistina
Life is moving so quickly, and not to sound cliché, but I really need to make sure that I’m present in all aspects of it. We only get one shot at this life and as I get older, I realize how important it is to make sure I take nothing for granted.
Peter Caporilli, Principle Academy Charter Founder
When I look back on 2026, on December 31, 2026, I hope I am able to say that I successfully completed and defended my Doctor of Education (EdD) dissertation “The Mathematics of Charter School Quality.”
Samantha Kiley, Vice President, Community Health & Social Impact, AtlantiCare, Chair of Midtown Atlantic City Development Group
My wish for 2026 is to continue to be solution for food and housing insecurity in our region and, specifically in Midtown Atlantic City, where we’ve committed to neighborhood revitalization through the addition of high-quality housing units, beautification projects and the continued support of local businesses. We want to ensure that all in our community have what they need to live a healthy and prosperous life.
Scott Stetzer, Realtor, former Press of A.C. photographer
In addition to staying cancer free, I want to live by the lyrics of “Cortez the Killer.” Listen to the song and read the lyrics. Here’s an excerpt: “Hate was just a legend. And war was never known. The people worked together. And they lifted many stones. And they carried them to the flat lands. But they died along the way. And they build up with their bare hands. What we still can’t do today.”
Anthony Gaud, Gaud-Hammer Gaming Group Co-Founder, Galaxy One Radio Podcaster
I’m making a conscious effort to get out of my own head and look for the good in my life, even when everything in the world feels broken. I’m done carrying the weight of things I can’t control. I want to focus on what’s right in front of me, protect my peace, and stay present instead of stressed.
Sean Patrick, Longport Media Promotions Director, and WMGM 103.7-FM On-Air Personality and Assistant Program Director
It’s all about 50s for me in 2026! Turning 50 this year and still coming to terms with it. My goal is 50 concerts, 50 breweries, 50 good deeds and celebrating 50 Years of Rock on 103.7 WMGM Rocks. Also, pay attention to my health more, of course!
Chuck Darrow, Journalist and Pure Petty Bassist
I’m hoping to talk less and listen more this year. And for my wife, I resolve to shut cabinet doors.
Al Parinello, Surflight Theatre Owner and former WJSE Radio Owner
I am proud to live in America, where miracles happen when we come together.
Doug Deutsch, National Musical Publicist, Music Columnist
I plan to try and incorporate more traveling into my schedule this coming year, whereby I can not only see more of our beautiful country, but also hopefully get to see some of my clients located throughout the U.S. perform, many for the very first time. As a music publicist, I feel very blessed to be afforded this opportunity.
Jeffrey Bank, CEO of Alicart Restaurant Group
After 20+ years at the Trop, Carmine’s New Year’s resolution is simple: Keep our Italian family-style exactly how it should be — over-the-top quality, real value, and hospitality built for life’s celebrations, with even more wow in every dish. That’s how Carmine’s stays relevant. That’s how Carmine’s stays iconic.
Mark “Weissguy” Weiss, International Rock Photographer, ROCKED Magazine Founder
I’m committed to expanding ROCKED into a quarterly magazine that revives the look, attitude, and storytelling of the great rock magazines of the ’80s, while mentoring and inspiring a new generation to understand rock ’n’ roll photography as both history and art.”
Dave Weinberg, Sports Journalist and Broadcaster
I resolved to give up cursing again, but it didn’t last long. I broke it at 7:24 a.m. when I saw snow. Now my goal is to improve my golf game. I’d like to break 75 and maybe even shoot my age (68 in April) … hopefully without cursing.
Butch Buchanico, FIFA World Cup Senior Manager of Safety and Security
I will do my part to help everyone put their differences aside and bring us all together. A huge opportunity to help this will be this year’s World Cup. Football unites the world.
Chef Joe Muldoon, Haddon Culinary Co-Owner
I am looking forward to another year of trust as a caterer for people’s most important life events, celebrating with Haddon Culinary. But for 2026, I am going to make every effort to enhance their menus, to really show them what it’s like to work with a chef for their wedding.
Ronnie DiSalvo, Managing Partner of Hooters of Atlantic City, Adam Good Sports Bar, Firewaters Saloon, Adam Good Deli
Looking forward to increasing revenue and profitability by continuing to build the brands. Continue with my commitment to donating to local charities and fundraisers.
Ryan Loughlin, Journalist, E Street Shuffle Guitarist
Reduce the amount of time I spend on social media — it’s the worst thing to ever happen to society — and replace it with actively bringing my business and brand to new levels.
Craig Tanzola, Formal Dimensions Owner
To have Atlantic City to work better with the casino industry and bring the city to its potential with things like an improved, well-lit, walkable shopping district with security and iconic, huge displays that will make people want to visit and take photos like they do at the welcome sign in Las Vegas. I’d like CRDA to fund a resident entertainer for the winter months to boost business. I’d love to see a Sphere-like project here in Atlantic City. I think we need more of a State Police presence to deter crime. And I hope that we can get Congressman Van Drew to talk with President Trump to bring the next generation of fighter jets to our airport.
Mark Melhorn, Associate Director of News and Media Relations
Travel more and read more books. I was able to take a trip to Italy in 2025, and I’d love to go somewhere else in Europe in 2026 (maybe Ireland!). Also, I’ve spent most of my career reading news about what’s happening in the real world. Now, I’d like to spend some time escaping it in a good novel or two.
Aimee Schultz, JASM Consulting Marketing Communications Owner, MBCA COO
Be more mindful and deliberate in my actions. Outreach is key! I am looking forward to forging new partnerships, relationships and friendships in my interactions throughout our South Jersey Community. I look forward to continued growth and new adventures, both personally and professionally!
Dr. Matt Corcoran, Shore Physicians Group, Diabetes Training Camp Founder
My 2026 goal is to markedly increase awareness of and screening for Type 1 Diabetes right here in Atlantic and Cape May counties for those at high risk — relatives of those with T1D, diagnosis of diabetes with other autoimmune conditions, etc — while creating a healthy path forward for those that screen positive and are at risk.
Bruce Weekes, City of Atlantic City Assistant Director of Economic Development
The theme for 2026 is cadence. I will make planning a focused habit, so that there’s no rushing and no forcing anything. 2026 will be about finding a steady rhythm that supports growth, rest, and consistency — both professionally and personally.
Michael Burns, Mad Mutz Founder
We want South Jersey to feel proud seeing Mad Mutz in their own ShopRite freezers. This brand was built here, tested here, all while disrupting the mozzarella global market. Our goal is simple: Grow nationally while keeping Atlantic City and South Jersey as our home base.Cindy Fertsch
Michael Charlton, AtlantiCare President/CEO
I aspire to lead with purpose, humility, and optimism — bringing people together around a shared commitment to care, progress and possibility, and working every day to help build a healthier, stronger future for those we serve.
Sharon Franz, Sales & Marketing Director, Steel Pier
I am focusing on personal growth, staying strong in my faith, leaning into positivity and happiness, and making a conscious effort to step away from negativity.
Jose Garces, Restaurateur, Iron Chef, Amada creator
In 2026, I’m committing to being more present and grateful — on and off the line. I’ll cook with intention, eat cleaner, honor my body and keep learning. Most importantly, I’ll continue mentoring the next generation, sharing knowledge, opportunity, and heart through food.
Jackie Martling, Comedian, former “Howard Stern Show” Head Writer
Eat less steak so my girlfriend won’t have to clean up so much grease.
Jon Henderson, Regional Vice President of Marketing for Caesars Entertainment, Good Time Tricycle Founder
I don’t do New Year’s resolutions. It never f@#$ing works, so why lie to myself?
Leslie Daniel, Executive Chef, Kuro at Hard Rock Atlantic City
My New Year’s resolution is experience, to no longer withhold myself from trying new things, pushing myself out of my comfort zone. As a chef, being innovative and constantly creative requires inspiration through experience, and I look forward to a year of new experiences.
Bob Kephart, Comedy Stop Founder
Establish a new location for the Comedy Stop and provide electric shows in a dynamic location … could be Borgata, Ocean, Hard Rock?!
Larry Alexander, General Manager, OVG Hospitality, Boardwalk Hall and Convention Center
Turn my influence into infrastructure — leaving behind programs, moments, or traditions that last longer than applause … meaning I want to continue to make a difference behind the scenes ensuring that I create those experiences whether it be a conversation of hope, encouragement and wisdom!
Vince Mazzeo, B.F. Mazzeo Co-Owner, Former State Assemblyman
Balance my life more. I have some trips planned while working to continue to upgrade B.F. Mazzeo’s and deliver the best product to our customers. Being a former Assemblyman, I would like to be more of a voice for South Jersey. Under the new governor there should be an opportunity for positive changes that would help South Jersey residents.
Paul Kelly, Longport Media President and General Manager
I have set an intention to cook more so I can better control the ingredients I am putting in my body. I’m turning into a big crock pot guy! That means more planning ahead, which translates to all aspects of life.
Dennis Levinson, Atlantic County Executive
It is widely known that Atlantic County has had great success through the years, but there is just so much county government can do. My sincere wish for the new year is that our municipalities scrap their archaic mentality of home rule. It is costly and ineffective. My hopes are for the municipalities to take the initiative in a centralized dispatch system, implement countywide assessments and join the county municipal court system and institute a fair and open bidding process and end no bid contracts to cronies. These implementations will literally save millions of municipal tax dollars. An excellent example is the nine municipalities out of the 23 towns that joined our county court system have saved literally millions. Certain towns reluctance to save money is confounding. Home rule should have disappeared with the buggy whip!
Dan and Sandy Greenberg, South Jersey Smoke House Co-Owners
We had an incredible year — our second full year — at South Jersey Smoke House. We’ve met so many great people and have enjoyed sharing our products with everyone. We are looking to expand our business even further. We have some big plans which we will be announcing in the next couple of weeks. Cannot wait to share them with everyone!
Jamie Hoagland, Resorts Casino Hotel Director of Advertising and Public Relations
I’m feeling really good about 2026! My resolution is simple: To be okay with it all. I’ll be turning 45 in a few months, and I’m embracing the imperfectness of midlife — the things I thought I should have been, should have done, or didn’t do. This year, I want to travel more than I did last year, and I already have four trips on the calendar: skiing in the Poconos, spring training in Clearwater, camping on Assateague Island, and a Caribbean cruise. Another goal? Making a real effort to leave Atlantic City more often — like driving offshore at least once a week. And remember that sourdough goal from last year? I didn’t bake a loaf in 2025, but I nurtured my starters all year. Tonight, my first loaf is finally ready for the oven! And for the Eagles to win the Super Bowl!!!!
Lauren and Paul Erbacher, Owners, Hammerbacher
We are “comfortable” in the new year. We depend on our integrity and wisdom and relish the acumen acquired with age and experience. We will continue to pursue authenticity and be inspired and innovate. We hope we’ve moved the needle forward regarding food culture in this area. We are excited by all the new businesses that we’ve witnessed over the last 10 years and consider it a testament to the continued rise of local professionalism in food and in hospitality. Warm bread and good eats!
Joseph and Ginny Lautato, Café 2825 Owners
Ginny and I are moving into Atlantic City with plans to make a meaningful impact in the neighborhood. Living across from our restaurant, the move aims to embrace city life while contributing to the community. Our effort depends on support from the city, following a challenging process. The Café’s renovation is expected to be completed by summer with fingers crossed.
Aram Mardigian, Executive Chef, American Bar & Grille
This year is about trying new things and letting go of old habits. I’m looking forward to focusing on the things in my life that fulfill me and make me a better person. Personally and professionally. Life is good.
Sean Riggin, Atlantic City Public Safety Director
My focus is steady, behind-the-scenes work. I want our neighborhoods to feel safe and welcoming again. That means helping the right people and agencies work together, fixing problems early, and backing the good work already happening in our community instead of chasing flashy, new “big ideas” that don’t last.
Jesse O. Kurtz, Atlantic City Councilman
Let us make 2026 the year that we refine our expertise, while developing new talents, interests, and empathies.
Evan Sanchez and Zenith Shah, Authentic City Partners
Authentic City Partners is doubling down on Atlantic City’s Orange Loop, delivering more high-quality, market-rate apartments and for-sale townhomes, while fueling more investment into Hayday Coffee and Cardinal. Density drives vibrancy. Onward!
David Pena, Owner/Creator of Pena Productions and Boogie Nights
This year I want to continue bringing the party to the people at Boogie Nights, expanding the brand and launching a Boogie Nights podcast. We’re developing exciting new projects with the ultimate goal of embracing fun and bringing back human connection. In 2026, we’re living in the moment.
Betty McHugh, GM of Lascala Restaurant Group
In the new year, I’m focusing on becoming the best version of myself — excelling in my career, prioritizing my health and fitness, and cherishing time with my family and friends. Also, I want to spend more time doing photography with Betty’s Real Life, learning as I go and capturing real, everyday moments I love. This is my passion!
James Sarkos, Atlantic City Chief of Police
Continue prioritizing the well-being and professionalism of our officers while advancing innovative, data-driven, fair, and effective policing. We will remain focused on keeping both our city and our officers safe, while responsibly utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance public safety, accountability, and public trust.
Lee Sanchez, STW Hospitality, Momentum Hospitality Group
Be a cultural change in hospitality. It’s about returning to our roots — valuing people, not just productivity. We’re building a team that backs each other and balances work and life, showing the industry it’s possible to succeed while making family our top priority.
Michael Suleiman, Atlantic County Democratic Chairman, South Jersey Forward Founder
For decades, our region has accepted mediocrity and stagnation. Transformative initiatives like diversifying our economy and expanding economic opportunities have been discussed for nearly 40 years with little to show for it. In 2026, I intend to relentlessly push for policies that finally deliver real, measurable progress for Atlantic County residents.
David Goldstein, President, Professional Chefs Association of South Jersey
Honor the chefs and mentors who came before me in the Professional Chefs Association of South Jersey. I wish to do this by continuing to give back to our chefs and community and try and bring chefs and people together. That is something I feel strongly about and believe in. If I can help others by helping to bring chefs and friends together, I feel I will have accomplished something.
Demetrios Haronis, Director of Culinary, Tropicana
Looking forward to increasing the amount of support we give to making Atlantic City better.
Sonny McCullough, Consultant and former State Senator and Egg Harbor Twp. Mayor
Spend as much time as possible with my family and close friends. To be available to give support and advice to the elected officials of Atlantic County, their municipalities — whether they are Democrats or Republicans — to improve the life of our citizens.
Mark Benevento, Entrepreneur
Bring more family fun to Atlantic City by opening Ocean’s 18 at Ocean Casino Resort, an all new, tech-driven mini golf experience that’s going to be a blast for everyone. Our grand opening is Jan. 17 with celebrities and the Philadelphia Mummers. I can’t wait for the community to enjoy it.
Modia “Mo” Butler, CRDA Board Chairman
To explore new places, continue to learn from great cities and to help Atlantic City reach its full potential.
Keith Hartzell, Ocean City Councilman
To find common ground in all of my relationships. When we disagree on issues that divide us, accept each other’s viewpoint. Spend time on what unites us.
Alice Woods, Chelsea EDC President
2026 is the year I OWN. I will step into my new role and lead with clarity, trusting my experience and vision. This is not a year of “becoming” something, but of fully inhabiting who I truly am. I will be bold, strategic and intentional, but always with kindness.
Bart Blatstein, Entrepreneur, Showboat Owner
More pickleball and less Dairy Bar.
Michael Chait, CRDA Public Information Officer
Choose more experiences over things. I want to start taking a road trip each year. Explore new cities, see sporting events, take in a concert, share the moments with family or friends, and collect stories instead of souvenirs … maybe some souvenirs. Say “yes” more often, stay curious, and build memories that last longer than anything I can buy.
Jim Rutala, Rutala Associates President
Continue to work with the stakeholders to enhance the quality of life and economic development in Atlantic City. 2026 should be a turning point in A.C. with many new exciting developments and infrastructure improvements.
Chef David Wong, Resorts Executive Sous Chef, King’s Pub Co-Owner
My New Year’s resolution is to inspire more in the community while maintaining the same inspiration on my culinary creativity. I continue to put more on my plate in my career, and I want this positive energy to be shown helping our local organizations. Our community is appreciative, and we see this with their smiles. To give back is a debt I owe to our community family. This is the same community I’ve grown the past 20 years, so it’s my duty … and open another restaurant!
Stephanie Marshall, Atlantic City Councilwoman
Work with the Mayor to move our city forward by expanding safe, affordable housing and champion opportunities for women and businesses. With transparency and compassion, I’ll continue listening, leading and foster policies that strengthen families and economic growth for all residents.
Joan Brennan, Northfield Politician, DOT Foods Team Analyst
I plan to do more for our veterans in South Jersey. I will continue to assist in raising funds for the Community Food Bank of South Jersey. My plan is to stay positive and learn to say no when it warrants it. I will always remember that the needs of our people and community are what is most important. I will continuously ask questions and stay engaged! Lastly, I will partner with community members to ensure that Northfield has the best 4th of July Parade and celebration in honor of nation’s 250th Anniversary!
Michael Hauke, Tony Boloney’s and Mad Mutz Founder and Mad Scientist
After 16 years, my 2026 goal is gratitude in motion — expanding the TB and Mad Mutz brands beyond N.J., honoring the South Jersey community that let me raise a family and build Tony Boloney’s from scratch. Every national step forward still starts with Atlantic City, where this story began.
Jerry “The Prince” Eisenband, Truck Dynasty Star, Former Atlantic City PR Executive
My New Year’s Resolution is to use my platform to showcase those who have helped me along the way. I hope to tailor the second season of Truck Dynasty to tour the world and visit friends, family and some celebrities that have made me into the person I am today. Hey, 15 minutes of fame is still better than 14. Lastly, I better get the Cron-king — my nickname for Cronick — in an episode, one which sees my brother Frankie Time and I touring A.C. where we do Beer Fest in an Apocalypse 6×6.
Giulietta Consalvo, Byrdcage Co-Owner
I read something recently that echoed what I’ve learned from years in rehearsal rooms. When something almost works, you don’t throw it away. You take it “from the top!” You don’t erase, you simply build upon what’s already in play. So, this year my resolution is clear: Lead with creativity and enthusiasm, build a smarter, stronger business, protect my time and my freedom, continue to stand in my power — with grace! Progress over perfection. Just keep saying “From the top!”
Bayly Winder, Congressional Candidate
Show up, listen and fight for a more affordable South Jersey and a less corrupt Washington.
Jason Tell, Byrdcage Co-Owner
Create experiences that matter. From hospitality to community engagement, I’m committed to bold ideas, authentic connection and leaving everything I touch better than I found it.
Whitney Ullman, Influencer
My resolution is to choose intention, listen to my gut, honor my time and do more impactful work for the community. It may be the year where I shift gears, so stay tuned!
Maureen Rowan, State Assemblywoman
I want to thank the people of Atlantic County who elected me to serve as the Assemblywoman for N.J.’s Second Legislative District. I am grateful for being afforded the opportunity to represent the people of Atlantic County, and it will be my honor and privilege to do so.
Sumon Hamid, Carmine’s Atlantic City General Manager
Being an Atlantic County resident since the 1980s, I have seen so many changes, and my goal is always to help others. I have met so many great people who will always be with me, and that’s the best part. I would love to see some Philadelphia Eagles players come and eat at Carmine’s family style.
Monica Padovano Casiello, Vice President/Business Development and Marketing, Community Activist
Motivational author Stephen Covey wrote, “Most people do not listen to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” My New Year’s resolution is to listen intently, actively and fully in the present in order to better understand the other person’s viewpoint.
Dave Delaney, Pastor and Radio Personality
I am more committed than ever to focus on joy. As we traverse dark and challenging times, we all need to hear stories focused on the good in people that lead us into warm smiles. We are also in a season where small local businesses need our business, especially ethnic restaurants where individuals who found hope in our nation are striving to succeed. I will bond with those focused on loving all of their neighbors and write more poetry, which hopefully means a published work this year.
Kip Russell, Wonder Bar General Manager
With an unending succession of New Years, a person tends to grow as old as Father New Year himself, granted if all goes just right. I try to keep a cheerful disposition as it has paid me back in dividends over the years. But as these Baby New Years come through the door in a robust conga line, I find myself taking it all for granted. Even worse, I greet these days bitterly with pains that slow me down a bit and seem to put me in a mood. More days than naught (I’m embarrassed to admit), I’m a horrible grumpy old fart that lashes out at the most mundane and petty disturbances. Add to it the impending daily dread that comes with being a manager for a thousand problems large and small, and I’ve turned into an ogre that drives my loved ones away. This is a change that I owe the people that put up with me. I understand I’m a handful at times, but to be unbearable is unacceptable. That’s my resolution: Cherish every miserable morning and bring smiles to my favorite people.
Charlie Wigo, Musician
Become cancer free!
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. He can be reached at scronick@comcast.net.
