It’s been 50 years since Carmen’s Restaurant on 43rd Street in Sea Isle City opened its dockside dining room, and for owners Carmen and Ruthy Conti, this golden anniversary represents a celebration of good friends, faithful customers, and strong family ties.

Believe it or not, there was a time when there were more than 15 service stations from Strathmere to Stone Harbor. Not gas-only facilities, but full-service stations. Today, only one remains.