AND It Continues Well Into The Night!

Ever been to Night in Venice at OCNJ?! Well during the day people are partying it up on floaties in the bay, looks like an absolute blast pic.twitter.com/NtvxNZ6mlE

— Wake Up NJ 🇺🇸 New Jersey (@wakeupnj) July 25, 2026

 

Complete with beautiful sunsets over the bay!

Philly Pops Showcases Superb Summer Lineup!

The Philly Pops is thrilled to highlight its many exciting concerts planned for this summer.

Featuring headliners such as Idina Menzel, Boyz II Men, and Leslie Odom Jr., the season includes major outdoor concerts with acclaimed guest artists, neighborhood performances, and appearances that reinforce the Philly Pops’ presence throughout the greater Philadelphia region. Under the leadership of Music Director Chris Dragon, the orchestra remains committed to presenting symphonic performances built around the music audiences already know and love, while expanding access to live orchestral music across the city. 

“This summer, we are thrilled to present concerts that reflect both who we are as an orchestra and where we are headed,” said Executive Director Matt Koveal. “We are proud to perform throughout Philadelphia: from our Pops on Independence concert on Independence Mall, celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with special guest artist Idina Menzel, to performances at the Highmark Mann, as well as concerts in parks, neighborhoods, and major venues across the region. With so many opportunities to experience the Philly Pops, we are bringing the orchestra directly into the everyday life of Philadelphia.”

Here is a list of upcoming concerts. Please visit www.phillypops.org

for ticket information,

Pops on Independence featuring Idina Menzel

Friday, July 3, 7 pm

Independence Mall, Philadelphia

Idina Menzel, vocalist

Christopher Dragon, conductor 

The Philly Pops returns as part of Wawa Welcome America’s annual festival with Pops on Independence concert, featuring Tony Award-winning, multi-platinum singer, songwriter, actor, and Broadway star Idina Menzel. Presented as a free Independence Concert Series performance in the heart of historic Philadelphia, the evening celebrates America's 250th anniversary with live orchestral music, favorite songs, and patriotic spirit.

Gregory Alan Isakov with the Philly Pops

Friday, August 21, 8pm

Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts, 5201 Parkside Avenue, Philadelphia

Gregory Alan Isakov, featured artist

Christopher Dragon, conductor

The orchestra joins Gregory Alan Isakov for an evening blending indie folk and symphonic sound. Isakov is a South African-born, Colorado-based singer-songwriter whose poetic style makes him a distinctive presence in indie folk and Americana. His six studio albums, including This Empty Northern Hemisphere, The Weatherman, Evening Machines, and Appaloosa Bones, have built him a devoted following, founded on intimate songwriting, international touring, and collaborations with symphony orchestras across the United States.

Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration

Friday, August 28 - 8 p.m.

Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts, 5201 Parkside Avenue, Philadelphia

Melvin Seals, Jacklyn LaBranch, Tom Hamilton, Grahame Lesh, John Morgan Kimock, Kanika Moore, featured artists

Christopher Dragon, conductor

The Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration returns to celebrate 60 years of the Grateful Dead and Garcia’s enduring legacy. This groundbreaking orchestral adventure – curated by the Garcia family – will feature Garcia's storied original compositions as well as classic interpretations of timeless standards that were hallmarks of Garcia and the Grateful Dead's storied concerts. The program features an all-star lineup, including Jerry Garcia Band members Melvin Seals on organ and vocalist Jacklyn LaBranch; guitarist/songwriter Tom Hamilton (Joe Russo’s Almost Dead); bassist Grahame Lesh (Phil Lesh & Friends); drummer John Morgan Kimock (Mike Gordon); and vocalist Kanika Moore (Doom Flamingo).

Boyz II Men with the Philly Pops

Friday, September 18, 8pm

Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts, 5201 Parkside Avenue, Philadelphia

Boyz II Men, featured artist

Anthony Parnther, guest conductor

Boyz II Men has made Philadelphians proud holding the distinction of being the best-selling R&B group of all time, with an astounding 64 million albums sold. They redefined popular R&B and continue to tour with their timeless hits that appeal to fans across all generations. Music lovers can expect favorites such as “End of the Road,” “I’ll Make Love to You,” “One Sweet Day” and “Motownphilly.” The group’s four Grammy Awards are just the tip of the iceberg; throughout its 30 plus-year career, Boyz II Men has also won a whopping nine American Music Awards, nine Soul Train Awards, three Billboard Music Awards and a MOBO Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music.

Pops at the Pavilion - The Philly Pops featuring Leslie Odom, Jr.

Friday, September 25, 7 p.m.

Philly Pops featuring Leslie Odom, Jr.

Finneran Pavilion, Villanova University, Villanova, PA

Leslie Odom, Jr., featured artist

Chris Dragon, music director

The Pops returns to Villanova University featuring Philadelphia-native Leslie Odom, Jr., a Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor, singer, and songwriter whose career spans Broadway, film, television, and concert performance. The show takes place during Villanova University’s Family Weekend, under the baton of Philly Pops Music Director Chris Dragon. Odom is known for his acclaimed portrayal of Aaron Burr in Hamilton and expanded his career with screen roles including Sam Cooke in One Night in Miami.

Community and Access Performances

Beyond its major hall performances, the Philly Pops will continue its commitment to community access with Artcinia concerts in Philadelphia neighborhoods and additional appearances at locations throughout the region. These performances are designed to reduce barriers to entry and bring live orchestral music directly into the everyday life of the city.

Subscription information for the new Kimmel Center series and additional ticket details will be announced at www.phillypops.org. 

About the Philly Pops

Founded in 2023, Liberty Bell Pops, d/b/a the Philly Pops, is a versatile ensemble composed of the former musicians of the pre-2023 Philly Pops with a mission to deliver authentic, exceptional musical experiences in the Philadelphia region. Gifted the name Philly Pops by the estate and family of Music Director Emeritus Peter Nero, the reborn Philly Pops is led by Music Director Christopher Dragon and features world-class soloists. The Pops continues to captivate audiences with its vibrant and diverse repertoire, melding tradition with an innovative approach unbound by musical genre.

 

Liberty Bell Pops, d/b/a the Philly Pops, has no affiliation either legally or artistically with Encore Series, Inc., the former management company of the Philly Pops.

Look At Washington Now: Thanks, President Trump!

These monuments tell the story of America.

They honor the men and women who sacrificed for our freedom and the leaders who helped shape this nation.

Their beauty, history, and meaning remind us why America remains the greatest country on Earth.

They stand as lasting symbols of… pic.twitter.com/URf4x7NAzt

— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) June 9, 2026

What You Need To Know About Memorial Day

Think you know all about Memorial Day? 

Think again!

It's Memorial Day weekend and we hope you're  having a great time.

This year Memorial Day is observed six days before the day's actual, traditional observance day, May 30.
This year, we hope that you take time to remember those who have protected us and who have made (and continue to make) our freedom possible. Because Memorial Day is all about those who gave their lives defending our country.  They made the ultimate sacrifice. In this way Memorial Day differentiates itself from Veterans Day which honors all veterans.

Now, let's get to the business at hand:

1) Not everyone will spend the long weekend at the Jersey shore, especially this year with the weather so uninviting. The media would have you believe that everyone is headed to the shore but that's just an easy way for the media to not report real stories over the weekend while at the same time nurturing the myth of the Great Shore Exodus. In fact, people enjoy the weekend in many different ways at many different places. We know we do -- and will.

2) Summer doesn't begin on Memorial Day. Summer begins on June 21, the summer solstice. And summer doesn't end on Labor Day. Summer ends on September 22 when autumn begins. The media and the travel industry concocted the idea that summer lasts from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It doesn't.

3) As we noted, Memorial Day is actually May 30. Congress changed the day around to make it a three-day weekend in another attempt to rob a fine holiday of its true meaning. So, Memorial Day is now the last Monday in May which means it can come as late as May 31 or as early as May 24. Leave it to the government to mess things up.

4) Memorial Day didn't become Memorial Day until 1966 when President Johnson officially renamed it. Prior to that it was widely known as Decoration Day - the day when Americans decorated the graves of the fallen. At it's core it's a somber day.

5) The artificial boundaries of Memorial Day and Labor Day mean absolutely nothing even though many people perceive these boundaries to coincide with the school year. Most children go to school well past Memorial Day. Many children (particularly in southern states) return to school well before Labor Day. Others return several days after Labor Day.

6) This year Memorial Day actually arrives close to the traditional date and Labor Day (the first Monday in September) is September 4. So, the stretch between the two is about average -- mixed news for vacation and travel vendors.

But, remember: Memorial Day isn't when people say it is. The summer hasn't begun - yet. It won't end on Labor Day. Many people will get through the whole summer without ever going to the Jersey shore. They will have a wonderful time nonetheless.

The Memorial Day and Labor Day boundaries are totally imaginary!

So, there you have it.
Enjoy what's left of spring.

And don't say "Happy Memorial Day" as the day is actually a solemn day set aside to remember and honor those who died defending our freedom. Pause. Reflect. Pay homage.
Then, go ahead and enjoy summer all the way through till September 22.
In fact, enjoy each day as a blessed gift. Savor every day, no matter the season.
Don't be cheated.

Trump Economy: Shore Rentals Picking Up This Year!

Seems like Jersey shore renters booked shorter stays and waited longer to commit this year

All I want is it to be cheaper down there, it's so expensive now to have a vacation at the NJ beach towns 😢 https://t.co/LeBerQ8GHt pic.twitter.com/lruVuGk515

— Wake Up NJ 🇺🇸 New Jersey (@wakeupnj) February 18, 2026

An Original Poem: Summer's Lingering Sonata

 
They say that summer's over . . . . 

Don't believe them, just remember,
Summer doesn't really end till the 22nd of September.

Summer's glow will linger with sea breezes and warm days;
As summer's spirit follows you in a million different ways.

Don't let them lull you into disbelief in nature's natural plan;
You've still got time to catch the sun and deepen that fine tan.

Labor Day is artificial but the calendar doesn't lie.
Fall may be upon us, but summer will not die!

 

copyright 2010 by Dan Cirucci

18 Big Reasons To Hold Onto Summer!

Summer doesn't end till September 22nd.

Which means we still have wonderful days of summer left to enjoy. And these days are among the best of the year.
With that in mind (and in no particular order) here are 18 big reasons to hold onto summer:

1) The beach. You can really enjoy it now since the kids are gone, it's blessedly uncrowded and there are no beach fees!

2) The sun. It bathes you at a beautiful angle this time of year.

3) The evenings. Just a bit cooler and more refreshing now than at the middle of the season.

4) Outdoor athletic activities. Much more fun now!

5) Lazy afternoons. You can still sneak away for some fishin, walkin, sky-gazing or whatever.

6) Fairs and carnivals. Some of the best ones are held now.

7) Late summer blooms. These include coneflower, asters, mums, Russian sage and heliotrope.

9) Travel bargains. At many locations the cost of lodging and dining is slashed as summer winds down.

10) The ocean water temperature. It's generally warmer now and much more enjoyable.

11) Late summer vegetables: corn, tomatoes, carrots, bell peppers, melons (even some peaches) and plums, all still available.

12) Baseball. The grand finale as we run up to the playoffs and World Series. 

13) Quietness. Most of your favorite open-air spots are quieter now so you can really listen to the sound of nature.

14) Fewer bugs buzzing. Except for those damned yellow jacks, you won't have to worry as much about insects.

15) Energy savings. Go ahead, open the window.

16) Al fresco dining. As nice this time of year as it's ever gonna be.

17) That deep, deep, green. Catch it before the trees begin to turn.

18) Summer's endless spirit. That spirit is still here and the moments and memories your savor during these final days of summer will warm you all the way through till next year.

Summer Over? Hell No! Many More Days To Go!

 Repeat after me:

SUMMER DOES NOT END UNTIL SEPTEMBER 22.
The whole notion that summer begins on Memorial Day and ends on Labor Day is something that was dreamed up by the media and/or the travel industry. And it's a lie.
Because the calendar (and the seasons themselves) tell a whole different story.
May is often cool and transitional. And so is much of June.
Summer begins at the summer solstice on June 21.
And autumn begins at the autumnal equinox on September 22.
June 21 is the longest day of daylight.
September 22 is a day when the hours of daylight and darkness are about equal. Thus, the equinox.
After September, darkness begins to take over and it remains that way until December 21 which is the shortest day of the year in terms of sunlight. Each day after that, we get more sunlight until the vernal equinox in March -- the first day of spring.
That's the cycle of the seasons.
We have many warm, wonderful days ahead of us.
So, go out and enjoy summer until at least September 22.
And don't let anyone tell you it's over!

Cheapest Labor Day Gas Prices In Five Years!

“Thanks to President Trump fully unleashing American energy dominance, gas prices this summer are at five-year lows and families are saving significant money at the pump. President Trump ended Joe Biden’s Green New Scam policies and is making America affordable again.”— White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, reported exclusively in Fox Business.   "President Trump campaigned on lowering costs and this Labor Day Weekend, the American people will see the results firsthand at the gas pump — with the lowest gas prices in years. His approach is simple and commonsense: more American energy means lower costs, more jobs, and more prosperity.” — Secretary of Energy Chris Wright

Americans traveling for Labor Day weekend will see the lowest gas prices in at least five years and dipping airfare as President Donald J. Trump delivers on his promises of lower prices, higher wages, and stable inflation. It will be “the lowest price at the pump on Labor Day since 2020,” according to GasBuddy — and “motorists can expect more relief to arrive in the weeks ahead.” Meanwhile, hotel rates are down about 11 percent, domestic airfares are down six percent over last year, and car rental costs are down three percent. Lower gas prices are part of a trend under the Trump Administration, which has taken relentless action to revive America’s energy capabilities and undo the Biden-era stranglehold on American energy production. The price decline is being reported in local news across the country: Axios: Here comes the cheapest Labor Day driving in years Daily Caller: Your Labor Day Road Trip Will Be Cheapest At Pump In Years Under Trump New York Post: White House touts lowest Labor Day gas prices since 2020 The Hill: Labor Day gas prices lowest since 2020 The Washington Examiner: Labor Day gas prices expected to be lowest in years WBMA-TV (Birmingham, AL): Gas prices predicted to hit lowest Labor Day levels since 2020 KCNC-TV (Denver, CO): Colorado drivers expected to take advantage of lower gas prices before Labor Day weekend KDVR-TV (Denver, CO): Gas prices could drop below $3 per gallon on average this fall KJCT-TV (Grand Junction, CO): Gas prices hit an all-time low WFTV-TV (Orlando, FL): Gas prices fall as Labor Day approaches WFLA-TV (Tampa Bay, FL): Gas prices lower in Florida ahead of Holiday weekend WPBF-TV (West Palm Beach, FL): Gas prices drop in Florida ahead of Labor Day The Augusta Chronicle (Augusta, GA): Georgia drivers to see lowest Labor Day gas prices since 2020 KTVB-TV (Boise, ID): Labor Day gas price forecast: GasBuddy boasts low prices ahead of busy travel weekend WTWO (Terre Haute, IN): Labor Day gas prices to hit lowest since 2020 WMAR-TV (Baltimore, MD): Labor Day Weekend gas prices projected to be lowest since 2020 WZZM-TV (Grand Rapids, MI): GasBuddy: As summer cools off, so will gas prices WEYI-TV (Saginaw, MI): Labor Day gas prices to be the lowest in 4 years NJ.com: N.J. gas prices hit 5-year Labor Day low, and the drop is just beginning WCNC-TV (Charlotte, NC): Gas prices, airfare drop ahead of Labor Day WGHP-TV (High Point, NC): Labor Day gas prices lowest since 2020 WSTM-TV (Syracuse, NY): AAA: Gas prices 36 cents lower across NYS compared to Labor Day last year WKBN-TV (Youngstown, OH): Labor Day gas prices expected lowest in 5 years Reading Eagle (Reading, PA): Labor Day travelers will see lower gas prices and good weather WPMT-TV (York, PA): Labor Day travel expected to surge as gas prices hit lowest average since 2020 KKRC-FM (Sioux Falls, SD): Expect Low Labor Day Gas Prices in South Dakota, Iowa & Minnesota WCIV-TV (Charleston, SC): GasBuddy forecasts Labor Day gas prices lowest since 2020 KAMR-TV (Amarillo, TX): GasBuddy predicts lowest gas prices nationwide on Labor Day since 2020 KAUZ-TV (Wichita Falls, TX): Labor Day gas prices predicted to be at lowest since 2020 holiday KXLY-TV (Spokane, WA): Flights, gas prices dip ahead of Labor Day Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Milwaukee, WI): Labor Day gas prices could drop to five-year low. WSAW-TV (Wausau, WI): Statewide average gas price is lower than this time last year

Usha Vance Promotes Kids' Summer Reading Challenge

On Thursday, August 21, Second Lady Usha Vance traveled to Canton, Georgia, where she visited Cherokee Classical Academy as part of her nationwide Summer Reading Challenge initiative, which encourages young readers to strengthen their literacy skills and develop a lifelong love of reading.

During the visit, the Second Lady spoke about her Summer Reading Challenge and joined students and teachers for a special reading session. She took questions from the children and visited their classrooms to participate in their academic lessons.

“We want every child to know that reading opens doors—not only to education, but to imagination, opportunity, and achievement,” said Second Lady Vance. “By taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge, children are building strong foundations that will serve them for a lifetime and prepare them for the school year.”

Cherokee Classical Academy leaders expressed their gratitude for the Second Lady’s visit and emphasized their commitment to nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for reading.

The Summer Reading Challenge has engaged students across the country through community-based events with the goal to make reading fun and accessible for children of all ages.

For more information on the Second Lady’s Summer Reading Challenge please visit www.wh.gov/read.

More From Aboard The Fantastic Rocky Mountaineer!

More photos as we continue our spectacular rail journey through the Canadian Rockies on the beautiful Rocky Mountaineer, one of the world's most famous trains! The scenery is unbelievable!

Now, This Looks Like Lots Of Fun!

 

Yes, Even On A Hot, HOT Day Like This . . .

 

As The Big Holiday Weekend Approaches . . .

 

Cherry Hill KNOWS How To Celebrate!

 

Ah, Summer Has Finally Arrived!

Today is the first day of summer!

So the season is still very, very young.

And you thought summer began last month? Phooey!

The whole notion that summer begins on Memorial Day and ends on Labor Day is something that was dreamed up by the media and/or the travel industry. And it's a lie.
Because the calendar (and the seasons themselves) tell a whole different story.
May is often cool and transitional. And so is much of June.
Summer begins at the summer solstice which is today, June 20.
And autumn begins at the autumnal equinox on September 21.
June 20 is the longest day of daylight.
September 12 is a day when the hours of daylight and darkness are about equal. Thus, the equinox.
After September 21, darkness begins to take over and it remains that away until December 20 which is the shortest day of the year in terms of sunlight. Each day after that, we get more sunlight until the vernal equinox in March -- the first day of spring.
That's the cycle of the seasons.
We have many warm, wonderful days ahead of us.
And yes, there may be some gloriously sunny, summer-like days during the first few weeks of June (IF we are lucky). But it still won't be summer. 
Summer comes in its own time and its own way. Nature has taken care of that.
Don't rush the season -- and don't cut it short.
And, when it's time, do go out and enjoy summer until at least September 22.
And don't let anyone tell you it's over on Labor Day.

The Summer, The 50th Anniversary Of 'JAWS'!

This was the movie that invented the summer blockbuster!

An Update On The Newark Airport Situation

We’re moving as fast as possible to address the issues facing the Newark airspace.
Here’s where we are at: pic.twitter.com/Kqa9pHlpGB

— Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) May 28, 2025

How To Make Fabulously Frothy Iced Java!

Brew a batch of strong coffee (we like Nespresso stormio or intenso) and chill in the fridge overnight or in the freezer for an hour or two. 

Then, pour the coffee over ice into a cocktail shaker. After a few minutes, remove the ice, stir sugar or artificial sweetener into coffee to taste and shake vigorously as you would a cocktail until the coffee is foamy. While shaking, froth a combination of milk and half 'n half in a Nespresso frother on blue (chilled) mode. 

Then, pour the chilled, foamy coffee into a large, elegant glass as shown, right. Top with the frothy milk mixture, a sprinkle of cocoa and a squirt of whipped cream and . . . voila! You've just made summer's best treat: a Fabulously Frothy Iced Java! Pair it with pizelle and/or biscotti. We guarantee, you will LOVE it!

Memorial Day: Six Things You Need To Know Now!

Think you know all about Memorial Day? 
Think again!

It's Memorial Day weekend and we hope you're  having a great time.

This year Memorial Day is observed two days before the day's actual, traditional observance day, May 30.
This year, we hope that you take time to remember those who have protected us and who have made (and continue to make) our freedom possible. Because Memorial Day is all about those who gave their lives defending our country.  They made the ultimate sacrifice. In this way Memorial Day differentiates itself from Veterans Day which honors all veterans.

Now, let's get to the business at hand:

1) Not everyone will spend the long weekend at the Jersey shore. The media would have you believe that everyone is headed to the shore but that's just an easy way for the media to not report real stories over the weekend while at the same time nurturing the myth of the Great Shore Exodus. In fact, people enjoy the weekend in many different ways at many different places. We know we do -- and will.

2) Summer doesn't begin on Memorial Day. Summer begins on June 20, the summer solstice. And summer doesn't end on Labor Day. Summer ends on September 22 when autumn begins. The media and the travel industry concocted the idea that summer lasts from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It doesn't.

3) As we noted, Memorial Day is actually May 30. Congress changed the day around to make it a three-day weekend in another attempt to rob a fine holiday of its true meaning. So, Memorial Day is now the last Monday in May which means it can come as late as May 31 or as early as May 24. Leave it to the government to mess things up.

4) Memorial Day didn't become Memorial Day until 1966 when President Johnson officially renamed it. Prior to that it was widely known as Decoration Day - the day when Americans decorated the graves of the fallen. At it's core it's a somber day.

5) The artificial boundaries of Memorial Day and Labor Day mean absolutely nothing even though many people perceive these boundaries to coincide with the school year. Most children go to school well past Memorial Day. Many children (particularly in southern states) return to school well before Labor Day. Others return several days after Labor Day.

6) This year Memorial Day arrives several days before its traditional date but Labor Day (the first Monday in September) is as early as it cam be, September 1. So, the stretch between the two is shorter than average this year -- bad news for vacation and travel vendors.

But, remember: Memorial Day isn't when people say it is. The summer hasn't begun - yet. It won't end on Labor Day. Many people will get through the whole summer without ever going to the Jersey shore. They will have a wonderful time nonetheless.

The Memorial Day and Labor Day boundaries are totally imaginary!

So, there you have it.
Enjoy what's left of spring.

And don't say "Happy Memorial Day" as the day is actually a solemn day set aside to remember and honor those who died defending our freedom. Pause. Reflect. Pay homage.
Then, go ahead and enjoy summer all the way through till September 22.
In fact, enjoy each day as a blessed gift. Savor every day, no matter the season.
Don't be cheated.