Atlantic City Becomes First City to Recognize 'Moment to Pause' Initiative

Philadelphia motivational speaker brings critical thinking message to Atlantic City students and officials

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:33am

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The City of Atlantic City, the Atlantic City Board of Education, and Philadelphia motivational speaker Eric 'Shabazz the OG' Lowe are collaborating on a first-of-its-kind event on Monday, March 30, 2026. Lowe will speak to Atlantic City 9th grade students about making smart choices by taking a moment to pause and think before reacting. Later that day, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small will present Lowe with a proclamation officially making Atlantic City the first city to recognize the '3 to 30 Seconds' Global Moment to Pause.

Why it matters

This initiative aims to encourage critical thinking and better decision-making, especially among youth, by promoting a brief pause before reacting. Atlantic City's adoption of this program could inspire other cities to follow suit, spreading the message of mindfulness and responsible choices.

The details

Lowe's student assembly at Atlantic City High School will focus on the importance of taking just a few seconds to pause and think before acting in certain situations. Later, Mayor Small will present Lowe with a proclamation at City Hall, officially making Atlantic City the first city to recognize the '3 to 30 Seconds' Global Moment to Pause.

  • The student assembly will take place from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM on Monday, March 30, 2026.
  • The proclamation ceremony at City Hall will occur at 3:15 PM on Monday, March 30, 2026.

The players

Eric 'Shabazz the OG' Lowe

A Philadelphia-based motivational speaker who travels the world sharing the message of taking a moment to pause and think before reacting.

Marty Small

The Mayor of Atlantic City, who will present Lowe with a proclamation officially recognizing the '3 to 30 Seconds' Global Moment to Pause.

Atlantic City Board of Education

Collaborating with the city and Lowe to bring the motivational speaker's message to Atlantic City high school students.

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What they’re saying

“Taking just a few seconds to pause and think before reacting can change the course of a life.”

— Eric 'Shabazz the OG' Lowe, Motivational Speaker

What’s next

After the proclamation ceremony, Atlantic City officials will work to promote the 'Moment to Pause' initiative throughout the community and encourage other cities to follow suit.

The takeaway

This event highlights Atlantic City's commitment to fostering critical thinking and responsible decision-making, especially among its youth. By becoming the first city to officially recognize the 'Moment to Pause' concept, Atlantic City is setting an example for other municipalities to prioritize mindfulness and empower their residents to make better choices.