Hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need

Hot Meals and Support Offered to South Jersey Residents in Need

Atlantic County Law Enforcement and Community Outreach Event in Egg Harbor City

EGG HARBOR CITY, NJ—The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, along with New Jersey State Police and Egg Harbor City PD, hosted a community outreach event recently, aimed at assisting vulnerable community members. The event featured hot meals prepared and served by NJSP troopers and volunteers from Pic a Lilli Inn, located on Route 206 in Shamong.

These efforts bring together our community and law enforcement to help those who need the help the most. Hot meals were prepared and distributed by the NJSP troopers and the great volunteers at the Pic a Lilli inn on 206 in Shamong Clothes hung on hangers placed on racks were distributed. Shoes, blankets and toiletries were given away as well. New Jersey Courts were on hand for immediate expungements and information on how to get records expunged distributed.

Hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need
Photo: hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need

During the event, attendees received not only food but also clothing on hangers, shoes, blankets, and toiletries.

Additionally, representatives from the New Jersey Courts were available to provide information on record expungement, with immediate expungements being processed onsite. The State of New Jersey Office of the Attorney General’s initiatives, Operation Rise and Operation Helping Hands, were also present, distributing doses of Naloxone to combat heroin and fentanyl overdoses.

Hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need
Photo: hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need
  • Rain or Shine: Here’s What to Do When the Weather Washes Out Your Jersey Shore Beach Day

    Rain or Shine: Here’s What to Do When the Weather Washes Out Your Jersey Shore Beach Day

    Every Jersey Shore vacation has at least one day when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

    The forecast looked perfect a week ago. The beach chairs are packed, the cooler is stocked, and the kids are ready to spend the day in the sand. Then you wake up to the sound of rain tapping against the windows of your hotel or rental house.

    For first-time visitors, it can feel like the day is lost.

    For locals, it’s just another Jersey Shore tradition.

    Longtime Shore residents know that while the beaches may be the main attraction, they’re only part of what makes the region such a great vacation destination. Hidden behind the boardwalks, tucked inside shopping centers and spread throughout the coastal counties are dozens of places where families can stay dry, have fun and maybe even discover something they would have missed on a sunny day. Let’s not forget, a day inside a boardwalk arcade, having boardwalk pizza is not a wasted day at all.

    Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending a week at the beach, these attractions can turn a rainy forecast into another memorable vacation day.

    Monmouth County

    Monmouth County offers some of the Shore’s largest indoor attractions, making it easy to escape the weather without driving far from the beach.

    Silverball Retro Arcade – Asbury Park

    Hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need
    Photo: hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need

    More than just an arcade, Silverball is a living museum of classic pinball machines and vintage video games. Visitors pay one admission price for unlimited play, making it a favorite destination for families, couples and anyone looking for a nostalgic trip back in time.

    Jenkinson’s Arcade – Point Pleasant Beach

    Even if the rides are closed because of the weather, Jenkinson’s indoor arcade remains one of the busiest spots on the boardwalk. From classic skee-ball to modern redemption games, it’s easy to spend a few hours here while waiting for the skies to clear.

    iPlay America – Freehold

    One of New Jersey’s premier indoor entertainment centers features rides, laser tag, go-karts, an enormous arcade, escape rooms and restaurants all under one roof. It easily becomes an all-day destination when the beach is out of the question.

    YESTERcades – Red Bank

    Retro gamers will appreciate the unlimited-play arcade featuring hundreds of classic arcade cabinets and vintage home consoles. Parents often enjoy this stop just as much as their kids.

    Chuck E. Cheese – Middletown

    Still one of the Shore’s classic family destinations, this location offers arcade games, interactive attractions and food for younger children.

    Chuck E. Cheese – West Long Branch

    Convenient for visitors staying near Long Branch, Oceanport and Asbury Park, this location provides another dependable indoor option for families with younger kids.

    Monmouth Mall – Eatontown

    While undergoing redevelopment, Monmouth Mall continues to offer shopping, dining and indoor walking space when the weather turns.

    Jersey Shore Premium Outlets – Tinton Falls

    Although primarily an outdoor shopping destination, many visitors still spend rainy afternoons browsing stores between showers while enjoying nearby restaurants and cafés.


    Ocean County

    Ocean County combines classic boardwalk attractions with family-friendly entertainment that remains open regardless of the weather.

    Lucky Leo’s Arcade – Seaside Heights

    One of the Shore’s most iconic arcades, Lucky Leo’s has entertained generations of vacationers with classic games, modern video games and endless opportunities to win prizes.

    Casino Pier Arcade – Seaside Heights

    Even if outdoor rides temporarily close, the arcade remains one of the boardwalk’s biggest indoor attractions.

    Jenkinson’s Aquarium – Point Pleasant Beach

    Home to penguins, seals, sharks, sea turtles and interactive exhibits, the aquarium offers a relaxing break from the rain while giving children a chance to learn about marine life.

    Hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need
    Photo: hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need

    Ocean County Mall – Toms River

    The region’s largest enclosed shopping mall remains a popular rainy-day destination with stores, restaurants and entertainment options.

    AMC Seacourt 10 – Toms River

    Sometimes a rainy afternoon is the perfect excuse for popcorn and a movie before heading back to the beach later in the day.

    Playdrome Lanes – Toms River

    Bowling never goes out of style, making this a great choice for families traveling together.


    Atlantic County

    Hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need
    Photo: hot meals and support offered to south jersey residents in need

    Atlantic County offers perhaps the widest variety of indoor entertainment along the Jersey Shore.

    Lucky Snake Arcade – Atlantic City

    Recognized as one of the largest arcades on the East Coast, Lucky Snake features hundreds of games, mini golf, bowling, virtual reality attractions and family entertainment all inside the Showboat Resort.

    Tanger Outlets – Atlantic City

    Rain doesn’t stop bargain hunting. The outlets remain one of South Jersey’s most popular shopping destinations.

    Hamilton Mall – Mays Landing

    With dozens of retailers, restaurants and entertainment options, Hamilton Mall makes an easy escape from bad weather.

    Storybook Land – Egg Harbor Township

    Although much of the park is outdoors, indoor attractions and seasonal events still make it worthwhile during lighter rain or passing showers.

    IMAX Theatre at Tropicana

    Catch the latest blockbuster on one of South Jersey’s biggest screens before returning to the Boardwalk after the storm passes.

    Atlantic City Casinos

    Even families who aren’t interested in gambling can enjoy restaurants, shopping, live entertainment and indoor attractions throughout Atlantic City’s resort district.


    Cape May County

    Rainy days in Cape May County often become opportunities to slow down and explore the quieter side of the Shore.

    Morey’s Piers Arcades – Wildwood

    Even when weather affects the rides, many boardwalk arcades continue operating, offering everything from classic skee-ball to today’s newest games.

    Gateway 26 Arcade – North Wildwood

    One of the largest boardwalk arcades at the Shore remains a favorite stop for families seeking shelter from passing storms.

    Islander Raceway – Wildwood

    The indoor slot-car racing attraction has been entertaining generations of Wildwood visitors and remains a unique boardwalk experience.

    Goofy Golf – Ocean City

    This beloved miniature golf course has been part of Ocean City vacations for decades. While weather may delay play, it’s worth returning when skies begin to clear.

    Jilly’s Arcade – Ocean City

    An Ocean City institution, Jilly’s keeps the fun going regardless of the forecast with arcade games for all ages.

    Harbor Light Mini Golf – Wildwood Crest

    When the rain lets up, Harbor Light offers one of the Shore’s classic miniature golf experiences.

    Cape May County Park & Zoo

    While much of the zoo is outdoors, indoor reptile and educational exhibits can still make for an enjoyable visit during cooler or showery weather.


    Sometimes the Best Beach Days Aren’t Spent on the Beach

    Every Jersey Shore veteran knows the weather has a mind of its own. A morning thunderstorm can give way to bright sunshine by lunchtime, and an afternoon spent in an arcade, aquarium or shopping mall often becomes just as memorable as a day in the sand.

    So don’t let a rainy forecast ruin your vacation. Pack a light jacket, grab an umbrella and remember that some of the Shore’s best memories happen when everyone has to improvise.

    When the sun comes back out—and it usually does—the beach will still be waiting.Every Jersey Shore vacation has at least one day when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

    The forecast looked perfect a week ago. The beach chairs are packed, the cooler is stocked, and the kids are ready to spend the day in the sand. Then you wake up to the sound of rain tapping against the windows of your hotel or rental house.

    For first-time visitors, it can feel like the day is lost.

    For locals, it’s just another Jersey Shore tradition.

    Longtime Shore residents know that while the beaches may be the main attraction, they’re only part of what makes the


    Sometimes the Best Beach Days Aren’t Spent on the Beach

    Every Jersey Shore veteran knows the weather has a mind of its own. A morning thunderstorm can give way to bright sunshine by lunchtime, and an afternoon spent in an arcade, aquarium or shopping mall often becomes just as memorable as a day in the sand.

    So don’t let a rainy forecast ruin your vacation. Pack a light jacket, grab an umbrella and remember that some of the Shore’s best memories happen when everyone has to improvise.

    When the sun comes back out—and it usually does—the beach will still be waiting.

  • Ocean City Residents Sue Over Approved Verizon Cell Tower Near Bay Avenue

    A group of Ocean City residents has filed a lawsuit seeking to block a Verizon wireless tower project, arguing the city’s approval process violated zoning laws and deprived neighbors of a fair hearing.

    Several Ocean City property owners have filed a lawsuit in Cape May County Superior Court challenging the approval of a proposed Verizon wireless telecommunications tower at 3308 Bay Avenue. The complaint, filed Monday, names the City of Ocean City, the Ocean City Planning Board, and Verizon Wireless-related entities as defendants.

    The plaintiffs, who live near the proposed site, are asking a judge to invalidate a recently adopted city ordinance and overturn Planning Board approval for the project. Court records show the lawsuit was filed as an action in lieu of prerogative writs, a legal mechanism commonly used to challenge municipal land-use decisions.

    Residents challenge ordinance and approval process

    According to the complaint, Verizon sought to construct a wireless communications tower in Ocean City after the company identified a service gap in the area. The lawsuit alleges the city later adopted Ordinance 25-01 and entered into a settlement agreement that paved the way for the proposed facility at 3308 Bay Avenue.

    Plaintiffs contend the ordinance improperly limits eligible telecommunications tower locations to city-owned property and lacks sufficiently clear standards governing when a tower may be approved. They argue those provisions make the ordinance invalid under New Jersey land-use law.

    The complaint further alleges the Planning Board approved Verizon’s application without conducting an adequate independent review of whether existing structures could accommodate the company’s communications needs. Plaintiffs claim the board relied on generalized testimony rather than detailed factual findings.

    Lawsuit alleges spot zoning and due process violations

    A second major claim centers on allegations of unlawful spot zoning. The lawsuit argues the ordinance effectively favored a predetermined site at 3308 Bay Avenue rather than establishing a neutral framework applicable throughout the city.

    Residents also allege they were denied meaningful notice and an impartial review process because decisions regarding the tower location were effectively made before the public hearing occurred. The complaint cites a settlement agreement between the city and Verizon as evidence that the project had been largely predetermined.

    In addition, plaintiffs assert violations of the New Jersey Civil Rights Act, claiming the approval process interfered with their procedural due process rights regarding zoning protections affecting their neighborhood.

    Plaintiffs seek court order blocking project

    The lawsuit asks the court to declare Ordinance 25-01 invalid, vacate the Planning Board’s approval of Application PBA 26-003, and prevent construction or site disturbance associated with the proposed tower while the case is pending.

    Court filings indicate the residents are also seeking attorney’s fees, costs, and other relief deemed appropriate by the court. No response from the defendants had been filed at the time the complaint was submitted.


    Key Points

    • Ocean City residents filed a lawsuit challenging approval of a Verizon telecommunications tower at 3308 Bay Avenue.
    • Plaintiffs argue a city ordinance and Planning Board approval violated New Jersey land-use requirements.
    • The suit seeks to block construction and overturn approvals granted for the proposed project.

  • Ocean City, School District Sued After Bench Tips Over at Carey Stadium

    A Camden man has filed a lawsuit against Ocean City and the Ocean City School District, claiming a defective bench at Carey Stadium tipped over and caused serious injuries.

    The City of Ocean City and the Ocean City School District are facing a personal injury lawsuit after a visitor alleges he suffered permanent injuries when a bench at the Carey Stadium complex unexpectedly tipped over.

    According to a complaint filed in Cape May County Superior Court, plaintiff Makin El of Camden was visiting Carey Stadium at 500 Boardwalk on Aug. 28, 2025, when the incident occurred. The lawsuit claims he was lawfully on the property as a business invitee or licensee when he was injured.

    Lawsuit alleges defective bench caused fall

    Court records state that El was injured because of what the complaint describes as a “dangerously and improperly installed and maintained bench” that tipped over. The lawsuit alleges the defective condition caused him to fall and sustain permanent injuries.

    The complaint names both Ocean City and the Ocean City School District as defendants, alleging they owned, operated, controlled, or maintained the Carey Stadium complex.

    According to the lawsuit, the dangerous condition either was known to the defendants, should have been known through reasonable inspection, or was created by the defendants themselves.

    Plaintiff claims permanent injuries and financial losses

    The lawsuit alleges the defendants had actual or constructive notice of the hazardous condition and failed to properly repair or correct it. The complaint contends that failure amounted to negligence and created a foreseeable risk to visitors using the facility.

    El claims the fall resulted in severe and permanent injuries requiring medical treatment. The lawsuit further alleges he has incurred medical expenses, suffered pain and humiliation, and experienced a loss of earnings and earning capacity.

    According to the complaint, additional medical expenses and damages may continue into the future as a result of the injuries allegedly sustained in the incident.

    Jury trial requested

    Filed by attorney Harry J. Kane Jr. of Weir LLP, the lawsuit seeks damages, interest, and court costs from the defendants. El has also requested a jury trial.

    The allegations contained in the complaint are claims made by the plaintiff and have not been proven in court. Neither Ocean City nor the Ocean City School District had filed responses to the lawsuit at the time of the filing.


    Key Points

    • A lawsuit claims a bench at Carey Stadium in Ocean City tipped over and injured a visitor.
    • Plaintiff Makin El alleges the bench was improperly installed and maintained.
    • The suit seeks damages from both Ocean City and the Ocean City School District and includes a jury trial demand.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

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