Bay Magazine Summer 2021 by bay magazine

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L I F E S T Y L E bay-magazine.com 1

on every level.

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Walters Architecture, LLC. - Lic # N.J. AI19884

Architecture. Custom Homes. Realty. With our three divisions, we offer all-inclusive services that seamlessly bring your dream home to reality. We are experts in the homebuilding business and have streamlined the process from beginning to end — saving you time and money. We’ll take great care in ensuring that your new home is designed around your lifestyle and be there for you every step of the way.

Don’t wait, start building your dream home today. Visit waltershomes.com and click “price project” to begin the process virtually.

Let’s talk. 609.597.6999 waltershomes.com 500 Barnegat Blvd. N., Barnegat NJ 08005 (Building 400)

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Contents Open House 19

Home Grown at the Beach

Light the Way

Beach House Refresh

Navigating through Unchartered Stormy Seas

Enhanced Seashore Living

Storage

Ask the Decorator

The Art of Coastal Decorating

Extending your Home

2021’s Most Admired Interior Design Trends

A Year of Uncertainty

Staying Cool all Summer Long

Photo by Michael Spark 4 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

CALL OR WALK IN

J Allergies, Ear Infections & UTIs J Sprains, Strains & Stitches J Lab, EKG & X-Ray on Site J Separate COVID-19 testing area J Immediate specialist referrals if needed SHIP BOTTOM, NJ

609-361-2677

FORKED RIVER, NJ (EXTENDED HOURS)

609-250-4110

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Contents Healthy Living 88 Relieve Pain, Improve Function 92 Move, Breath, Focus and Be Happy 98 No Time to Wait for Health Care 100 The Ultimate Fit-Cation

Get the Look 105

The Come Back

111

A Love Letter to Summer

126

Seven Chic Summer Hairstyles

Feature Story 132

Giving Back Never Looked so Good

Photo by Kyle Gronostajski 6 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

Boutique Design Studio specializing in bespoke cabinetry and hard finishes for the home. RED BANK, NJ | 732.345.1441 | TCKBDESIGNS.COM Design by appointment | Visit website for Mercantile Shop hours

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Contents Weddings 147

Wedding Bliss - Allison & Harry

154

Wedding Bliss - Jillian & Justin

163

Trending with Texture

165

Modern Love

174

The Diamond Guide

Feed Your Mind 179 Feed Your Mind 200 Queen of Confections 206 Italian Delicacies 209 The Island’s most Beloved Restaurants

Did you Know? 215

The Right Tools

219

Rise to Stardom

223

Explore LBI

224

Tee Time

231

The Magic

235

Chic Hat Emporium

241

This must be the Place

246

Catching Waves of Strength

Photo by Randy Townsend 8 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

FINE HOMES AND RENOVATIONS

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

WWW.DFINELLIHOMES.COM ! 609.342.0495

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bay magazine

LEISURE & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FALL 2021

bay magazine

CO-FOUNDER | CHAIRMAN PUBLISHER GARY HENDERSON CO-FOUNDER | EDITORIAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR FARRELL DUNLEAVY VP OPERATIONS LUELLEN HENDERSON

ADVERTISING | SUBMISSIONS | GENERAL INQUIRES CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

bay-magazine.com

LISA SIMEK

info@bay-mag.com CONCEPT & STYLING WEDDINGS JEANNE COON-BOGATH BOGATH WEDDINGS AND EVENTS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS MICHAEL JOHN MURPHY JOHN MARTINELLI MICHAEL SPARK RANDY TOWNSEND ANN COEN SHEENA LYNN KYLE GRONOSTAJSKI JESSA SCHIFILLITI

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LISA SIMEK DIANA LENTINI SARAH HODGSON CAROLYN MIJAL ELAINE SISKO KATIE HOOD ROBIN CHASE SUSAN VON BRACHEL ANNE GREEN MATT BURTON KATIE RIBSAM JESSICA SCANGARELLO DAVID HILL THOM SWEENEY GINNY PADUA ADAM BINDER

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ADVERTISING SUBMISSIONS GENERAL INQUIRES info@bay-mag.com

For a digital copy of bay magazine visit our website at www.bay-magazine.com. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by bay magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine.

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FOUNDERS NOTE

A Fresh Start With one heck of a year behind us, we eagerly anticipate the return of a safe and bustling summer of yesteryear on our beloved Long Beach Island. We’ve weathered storms, trudged through pandemics, power outages and more—and it’s good to be back to normal, see smiling faces while walking through a beloved retail shop and give neighbors and loved ones those long-awaited hugs. As one will see in the pages enclosed, we are commending our first responders, celebrating the community and its organizations, applauding all of the small business owners who made it through unscathed, and giddily rejoicing in the news that although indoor capacities limits have been lifted, outdoor dining on LBI seems to be here to stay for the foreseeable future. As residents and visitors, we rallied for our small businesses last year, and this year is a wonderful opportunity to continue to support them for the upcoming summer season. We don’t need the farmer’s almanac to tell us that Summer 2021 has a sunny outlook. As Socrates once said, “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new,” and this is what our little island is all about. Overcoming the obstacles and always looking forward, never backwards, as the sun rises over our first summer day on LBI, reminds us all of the inner strength and ability we all have to come back, stronger than ever. May it be a fresh start for all. The

Founders

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Photo by Nicholas Raylman

NJ ARCH LIC# 21AI01038700 NJ PLANNING LIC# 33LI00413700 BLDR REG# 13VH04273700

Build with an Architect™

342 W. 9th Street ~ Ship B ottom NJ 08008

(609) 361-0011

www.pagnotta.com

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SERENITY DESIGN Everything for the Home of your Dreams

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Shoppe Open Year Round 1102 Long Beach Boulevard Ship Bottom, NJ 609.494.5162 | serenitydesignlbi.com

At the end of the day,

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LET’S BUILD A HOME

W E ’ V E B E E N D E L I V E R I N G R E L A X I N G C O A S TA L E S C A P E S T O L B I FA M I L I E S F O R O V E R 4 0 Y E A R S , CUSTOM BUILDING A WIDE RANGE OF DIVERSE & BEAUTIFUL HOMES. RECOGNIZED WITH R E S I D E N T I A L W A R R A N T Y C O M PA N Y ’ S ‘A W A R D OF DISTINCTION’ FOR BUILDING EXCELLENCE & S U P E R I O R C U S T O M E R S AT I S FA C T I O N , O U R C L I E N T- C E N T E R E D T E A M W I L L W O R K W I T H Y O U F R O M D E S I G N TO C O M P L E T I O N A N D B E YO N D.

L e t T h o m a s J. K e l l e r H e l p Yo u E n v i s i o n T h e Po s s i b i l i t i e s

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Thomas J. Keller BUILDING CONTRACTOR LLC

4 N . L O N G B E A C H B LV D . S U R F C I T Y, N J 609.494.2215 | THOMASJKELLER.COM NJ REGISTERED BUILDER LICENSE #042471/HIC#13VH04329200

CHOOSE ANDERSEN AND NOTHING LESS “ANDERSEN” AND THE AW LOGO ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF ANDERSEN CORPORATION

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Home Grown

AT THE BEACH Local Family Rooted to LBI Proves How a Relationship with Nature Can Be Just as Profound as the Connection to Home Written by Lisa Simek

Photos by Michael Spark

Long Beach Island is a setting for some of the most covetable real estate of the Northeast. From its magical seaside retreats to its stunning bay front havens—and every other charming beach house in between—it is no surprise that LBI is as popular a vacation destination as it is. But for many, Long Beach Island isn’t just a summer holiday spot, it is the place they call home. And building a custom coastal home for year-round residents is often times quite different than a place that is enjoyed as a family summer house. Every once in a while, there comes along a new home that is built with such character and meaning, that it deserves to be placed in a category all on its own. As is the case with the dwelling of Barry and Nicole Baxter, lifelong LBI residents who finally took the leap and reconstructed their old Beach Haven bungalow into a tastefully timeless 3,000-square-foot, 4 bedroom, 4 bath home. The person they entrusted with the task of building their beautiful home in the place where Barry was born and bred, was a builder who, himself, was raised as a Long Beach Island native— Thomas J. Keller. The Baxters sought to design a forever home in which family life, work and play were all so poetically comingled with the maritime lifestyle of local islanders. While not on a “permanent vacation” as many visitors often times assume, the advantages of year-round residents do tip the scale in favor of the homeowners; after a busy day at their eatery, Barry’s Do Me A Flavor, they are able to treasure the downtime, whether it be by casting a line into the bay or going for a swim with their son. As local small business owners, they appreciate the little things that wouldn’t be possible if they lived elsewhere. Although the home may bay-magazine.com 19

“old Beach Haven” is interpreted with a modern Midas touch. It’s sheer height and grandeur, the crisp lines and magnificent oversized windows want to lean contemporary, yet the vintage lived-in feel of the natural cedar shake siding already weathered from the elements, the traditionally Victorian red brick fireplace towering from the ground towards the roof, the way the eaves on the roof subtly turn, even the bricklaying in the driveway, sprinkled with native plants and greenery give off a nostalgic harmony with the environment and a glimpse of the way LBI would have looked a century ago. Out front, the view is of a picturesque meadow and marshland. And since the backyard possesses direct access to the bay from the dock, the homeowner, who was raised a waterman through and through, made it a priority when planning the home to have unparalleled garage access from the front to the back of the house. This incredibly practical drive-through garage concept not only lends itself to great ventilation during those muggy summer days, but is an ingenious way of accessing the yard without walking through the house or a small property gate—which is quite convenient when trying to haul fishing gear such as cumbersome rods and reels, heavy tackle or ice boxes—you name it. Visitors can even drive through the garage and unload a truck with all of their fishing equipment directly onto Barry’s boat without ever having to lug it across the yard. The ultimate bayman’s dream. have been built with the same popular modern luxuries that most new construction encompasses nowadays, there is just something inexplicable about the aura of a home that was built for true, lifelong locals rooted to Long Beach Island. Even for Tom Keller, who has built hundreds of homes in his decades of business on LBI, this home is something to be proud of as it embodies the true spirit of the island lifestyle. In order to attempt understanding the intent behind this home, one must first try to understand the connection with its surroundings. Having bore witness to what the island looked like when they were children, the homeowners share a fond appreciation for the LBI architecture and design from many moons ago; this Craig Brearley-designed home has a refreshingly authentic nautical aesthetic. It demonstrates what true coastal living has always been about, while LBI’s inhabitants of generations ago—which typically included duck hunters, fishermen, and others whose livelihoods revolved around the water— roamed its sandy streets. The façade of the home itself, although reminiscent of 20 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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Making the most of its location, the home is designed to take in as many of the picturesque views of the water as possible. One of the most attractive ways this was done was through various windows that guide a beautiful 360-degree open stairwell that climbs through all three levels of the entire abode, connecting the floors together. Inspired by the aesthetics of a lighthouse, Nicole Baxter decided to cover the entire stairwell in shiplap in order to define that space—even suspending a perfect brass light fixture from the very top to radiate that illusion of an actual optic lamp. The highlight of the home, or as Nicole refers to it, as “the spine of her home,” the stairwell boasts oversized windows all the way to the top, debuting views of the bay and marsh lands as one is walking up the stairs—not a common feat that stairwells are typically able to do. The décor is bright and fresh, but the genuine vintage charting maps framed on the walls and natural wood flooring give this home a charming and warm, lived-in feel. A beautiful focal point of the open floor plan living space is the all brick, wood-fueled fireplace. In an era when the trend of white on white everything seems to dictate the aesthetics of a home at the shore, the impact of this architectural detail surrounded by a rustic

mantle, built in book cases and distinctive trim work, adorned by the vintage collectors’ decoys is magnetic. There’s a reason that the most inviting spot is often near a fireplace and typically the central point of any family gathering. The furniture and textiles, which Nicole also chose, is the perfect representation of the home’s seamlessness with the surrounding nature. Drawing the color palette and inspiration from the outdoors, the shades of green in the pillows and the woven jute texture in the rug, as well as the wooden coffee table, all bring the outdoors in with functionality and style. As one walks through the dining area and into the kitchen, it is quite obvious that this is a chef’s domain by the sheer number of cookbooks lining the shelves at every turn. Sharing that they tend to host all of the holiday dinners at their place, the heart of the kitchen is equipped with state-of-the-art double ovens, a main sink along with a bar sink and an oversized professional Wolf range. The spacious layout of the cabinetry and island yield plenty of prep and working areas so that the chef is able to focus on his craft uninterrupted and with room to breathe. Nicole, an architect by trade, had some input with the kitchen though—positioning the beautifully curved quartz island to be perfectly in

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sync with the window over the bay—so that whoever is sitting at the counter has a gorgeous, unobstructed view of the water within their direct line of sight. The inviting atmosphere from the living areas even flows into the kitchen, with the bright cabinetry complimented by classic brass hardware and light fixtures that were custom commissioned while the couple was visiting Cape Cod. The light fixtures and hardware color choices were inspired by Nicole’s favorite piece of jewelry that her husband gifted her years ago—which is yellow gold and platinum. Just as she notes that this jewelry elevates her otherwise casual personal style, this same concept manifests itself throughout the interior décor via brass light fixtures, enhancing the home’s casual, yet elegant, vibe.

ber of Tom’s team who happens to be Nicole’s sister, Colette, who kept the process of selections flowing and scheduling of trades work on time. Nicole jokes that they are still speaking after this entire building process, which speaks volumes for the professionalism of Tom’s team—being able to discern from personal relationships and professional ones—as often times guiding clients to stay realistic with their expectations and on budget is a touchy conversation to partake in with family members. But whether she was urging her sister to choose different fixtures in order to stick to the financial plan, or staining the floors 12 different shades to ensure that she was able to confidently select the right one, Nicole shares that working with her sister exceeded her expectations throughout the entire process.

Nicole and Barry noted that either Tom Keller or Dan, his foreman of 40 years, were on the job site every day, checking in on the process, adjusting any changes, making suggestions for how to do something better, and overseeing the overall quality and craftsmanship of the home build. They also share that their son heartwarmingly thanks Tom for building this beautiful home for his family in his daily bedtime prayers. A unique highlight of this particular project was that the couple had the pleasure of working daily with another mem-

With outdoor living a must for any Long Beach Island resident, the Baxters paid careful attention when planning the ground floor pool and surrounding dock area. They wanted to be able to access all of the decks from the outside via a custom staircase, and created a covered oasis wrapped in wood fit for barbeques, dining, and sunset views. One item missing from this home that is quite contrary to newer builds these days? The absence of a rooftop deck. The couple noted that realistically, they wouldn’t use it and it would be impractical to

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run from the pool to the rooftop from the outside and decided that the functionality of it seemed unnecessary. Besides, they have all of the best views already just steps away from their front and back porches—the rooftop would just take away from the architecture of the bedroom ceilings. In terms of bedrooms, the Baxters valued space and comfort over trying to squeeze in as many bedrooms as they could into their home. Two larger sized bedrooms encompass their master and their son’s quarters, while guests and loved ones still have the option of staying in any of the additional 2 guest bedrooms. The master is equipped with impressive walk-in closets and a spacious bathroom with vanity and a luxurious soaking, clawfoot tub. The very same brick fireplace from the living room flows right up the walls through the master, but in this room, is gas-powered, and offers the Baxters a gorgeous ambience to pair along with their water views. The walk-in closet, just off the master bath, is what Nicole had a hand in planning as well, with cabinets and pristinely built storage closets, it is the dressing area that dreams are made of. When asked about the inspiration for their home, the

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couple notes the emphasis on keeping everything authentic to the island’s rich culture and history. The sea is closely connected to the weather, and each one of the vintage fishing reels, framed charts and motifs are all real, genuine historical artifacts that tell a story about the island’s past. Barry’s father was a boat captain and marina operator for 50 years on the island, so many of these artifacts hold sentimental value to them. The couple was sure to pay special attention to ensure that all of the artwork, the décor, and the decoys were a part of this indigenous atmosphere they have tried to embody in their home.

Just a stone’s throw away from their livelihood and childhood homes, the Baxters were fortunate enough to have Tom Keller build them the home of their dreams, the local way. Not only does it mirror its surroundings beautifully, but it is the embodiment of the local lifestyle—the decks, the dock, the functionality and the warmth of the details—it is what makes this house a truly coastal home. Stylishly simple, this home celebrates a union of both nature and its connection to home, a seamless indoor/outdoor lifestyle, a bond with the sea, and a serene retreat whose spectacular setting can be enjoyed throughout the year.

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Light T H E WAY Written by Elaine Sisko, Staff Writer – Reynolds Landscaping

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Impeccable service, quality craftsmanship and superior design—for over 40 years Reynolds Landscaping has created beautiful and functional outdoor living environments by listening to client needs while continually seeking to improve and expand their services to meet these needs. In 2004, Tanek Hood joined the Reynolds business and, with his marriage to daughter Katie Reynolds, the Reynolds family—quickly finding his niche in the company by directing the Reynolds Lighting Division. Over the subsequent two decades, Tanek Hood has developed the Lighting Division of Reynolds Landscaping into the premier provider of low-voltage lighting on the Island through innovative design, attention to detail and a keen ability to listen and respond to the wants and needs of his clients. Throughout the years he has trained with some of the leading lighting design professionals and equipment manufacturers in the country—from Florida to Texas and California to Colorado—and has emerged as a highly-sought-after and seasoned professional in this competitive field. Hood explains that outdoor lighting is an essential component of the Jersey shore lifestyle and, from his perspective, outdoor lighting has become a basic amenity and central feature—extending the outdoor experience well into the evening hours. He strives to achieve the best shore experience possible for the homeowner by continuously adapting to the changing needs of the client and their family. He outlines the benefits of low-voltage lighting along with his advice and recommendations below. During the initial meeting with a potential client what information are you attempting to gain? What factors drive you design? My initial consultation is always driven by the two words, “why light?”. I consider lighting to be a key feature for improving my clients time at the shore with their family. Regardless of the answer a client might give to this question, my primary goal is always focused on improving their limited time on LBI. I also attempt to design a lighting system that is adaptable—meeting not only on the immediate needs of the homeowner but having the ability to change over time as the family evolves. So then, a lighting system should not be a static installation but should have the flexibility to adapt on a regular basis as family needs evolve and environmental features mature? bay-magazine.com 27

Yes, and I would say that this feature is the biggest omission from most lighting systems—the ability to change over time. As plant material grows in the landscape environment, it is essential that lighting fixtures have the ability to be raised and lamp intensity increased to accommodate the growth habits of plants in the garden. The lighting system also needs to have the ability to evolve over time as the family grows and lifestyles change. This requires a lighting designer to ask some pointed questions about how lighting is going to be used. Often the client purchasing the lighting system will not be its primarily user—the homeowner may be developing the outdoor space for their young adult children or grandchildren. Whether parents of young children or teenagers or seniors with physical or visual constraints, the lighting controls and intensity must be able to change easily with changing needs and lifestyles. Everyone ages so it is essential that the lighting design be flexible enough to provide functional and aesthetic lighting for the duration of its existence. For the past decade, our lighting systems at Reynolds Landscaping 28 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

have been designed with this feature clearly built-in as a foundation of all lighting designs. What are some common mistakes that homeowners make when installing a new landscape lighting system? A big mistake that some homeowners make is electing to install a larger system than is necessary while, at the same time, using inferior products. I always advise my clients to move forward with their outdoor lighting in phases. This allows the homeowner to live with and assess the initial lighting installation—making sure that it functions correctly and withstands the site conditions--before adding to it. My mantra is “less is more”— you can always add to the system, however, removing components is a bit harder. What criteria and credentials should a homeowner look for when selecting a lighting designer for their project? When selecting a lighting designer for your project look for a professional that has trained and traveled outside their primary jurisdiction of the lighting world and has

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certifications offered by any of the major lighting associations. These include the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP), the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), Dark Skies Association and the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD). Having these associations and experiences will suggest that the lighting designer is serious about their trade and educational expansion. They suggest that the lighting professional that you have selected has a basic understanding of the techniques, codes and requirements standard in the industry. How has the field of low voltage landscape lighting evolved and advanced at Reynolds Landscaping--and in general--since you first became a lighting designer? The biggest advancement in the field of landscape lighting, and specifically at Reynolds Lighting Division, has been the introduction of LED (Light Emitting Diode) components. Besides being extremely reliable and low-maintenance from an operational standpoint, LEDs have allowed lighting designs to present consistently on a nightly basis with little need for adjustment. Also a big advancement in the field has been continual technological improvements and upgrades in the quality and performance of materials and fixtures. Another significant improvement in the field over the last 5 years has been the willingness of professionals to share information and ideas online and through social media. While there are some tips and tricks-of-the-trade that I prefer to keep to myself, gone are the days when all information is hoarded—there is now a growing mindset confident in the belief that by sharing we all benefit. Zoning and staging of lighting, driven by utility and functionality, has also advanced in recent years- ‘task lighting’ that is clearly conceived to fit a task at hand, such as latenight grilling or directional bulkhead lighting for crabbing off the dock in the evening. What new cutting-edge technologies and methodologies do you expect will trend in the lighting field in the coming years? The biggest development that I expect to see coming into vogue in outdoor lighting is color. Personally, however, I am not a big proponent of color-changing systems in the residential backyard. The quality of the aesthetic created through colored lighting is difficult to maintain and can adversely affect tightly situated neighboring properties. There is plenty of bad lighting on LBI—instead of color enhancements, I would like to see more downlighting, less bluish color temperatures and less solar outdoor lighting. Finally, is it more efficient to design an outdoor lighting system during the conceptual stages of a new home construction or to wait until a new home is completed before tackling outdoor lighting? Every one of my lighting designs developed during the initial architectural planning stage of a new home installation has resulted in a better lit home and outdoor living space. It is my goal to think about every aspect of the family, the property and the home as it relates to lighting--it’s how we start and end our day. Typically, if I am involved in the preliminary stage of the project, I will reduce sconces on the house, add layers of downlighting to the property and residence and make sure color and temperature of all LED’s are warm and uniform. For more information on the lighting services and fixtures available through Reynolds Landscaping, please contact Tanek Hood on his cell phone at 609-468-8488 or via e-mail at tanek@reynoldslbi.com. bay-magazine.com 29

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BEACH HOUSE

REFRESH Written by Diana Lentini

Photos by Michael Spark

In the home design business, referrals are gold, but some of the best projects begin by happenstance. “Being in business for over 32 years, most of our clients come to us as referrals, but sometimes it’s just by chance,” says Donna Grimes, owner of Serenity Design in Ship Bottom. In the case of a recent refresh for a Haven Beach home, the homeowner first came across Serenity Design while running an errand for a friend. Upon entering the shop on Long Beach Boulevard, she quickly realized that Serenity Design is a complete home design center, selling flooring and tiles, lighting, cabinetry and furniture, window treatments and smaller home accessories, in addition to home design services offered by Grimes and her daughter, Victoria. Recognizing all the services Serenity had to offer, the homeowner decided to enlist Serenity Design with the task of updating her home. “When we entered this oceanside home we thought it was beautiful. The owner had a family member who was a designer help her with the house when they first bought it several years ago. She had done an amazing job, but the homeowner was ready for an update, or as we call it, a refresh,” Grimes says. “A refresh is when you aren’t redoing everything in your home, but rather updating and changing the house to reflect how you, as an individual, have changed over the years,” she explains. bay-magazine.com 33

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For this particular beach house, that meant focusing on the master bedroom and accompanying bathroom, and the main living space including the kitchen, dining room, living room and powder room. Completing a refresh that affects only certain rooms doesn’t necessarily mean that they will undergo a full renovation. The original kitchen cabinets were in good shape, and in a layout that the homeowner loved, so they were simply repainted from an ivory with a chocolate glaze to a light gray. A new, modern quartz countertop with a thick built-up edge and simple glass backsplash completed the look, while contemporary Palacek barstools with a custom vinyl blue seat tied the room together in a “nautical, chic sort of way,” Grimes shares. In the dining area, the owner opted to keep her dining table. To refresh the space, new dining chairs

were added, and a bar nook in the front alcove was created to sit and enjoy a glass of wine while resting on the cozy, upholstered ottoman coffee table. A beachy, yet sophisticated, chandelier hangs overhead, a subtle continuation of the nautical theme from the kitchen. In the living room, the fireplace was converted to 3D white oak stone with an updated mantle and hearth to breathe new life into the older style. The rest of the living room followed suit with the addition of a modern, track arm sofa and chunky wool area rug, and two more ottomans. The powder room also underwent a pick-me-up with new tile floors extending to the walls and fresh wallpaper. For the master bedroom, a fresh coat of paint and the addition of a feature wall covered with wallpaper behind the new bed and nightstands now imme-

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diately catches the eye’s attention. For this particular project, the master bathroom was the biggest undertaking. The dated, glass block shower was removed, and the layout of the entire bathroom was reconfigured to fit a custom vanity, complete with coordinating quartz top and mirror frame, in a way that made the space feel larger. “We think it’s bathroom perfection,” says Grimes. All of the décor pieces in this refresh are available at Serenity Design. “Leave it to us and your home can look just as amazing. Stop in – you never know where it could lead!,” says Grimes.

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NJ ARCH LIC# 21AI01038700 NJ PLANNING LIC# 33LI00413700 BLDR REG# 13VH04273700

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THE JERSEY SHORE’S #1 DESIGN-BUILD FIRM SINCE 1990

Build with an Architect™ 342 W. 9TH STREET, SHIP BOTTOM 609.361.0011 WWW.PAGNOTTA.COM bay-magazine.com 39

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NAVIGATING THROUGH UNCHARTERED STORMY SEAS Written by Lisa Simek

Photos by John Martinelli

The past year has been one for the history books, creating a shock wave that reverberated across seemingly all facets of life. But there is an unforeseen byproduct following 14-months of lockdowns, quarantining and social distancing—and this is a complete disruption of the construction industry as we knew it. All things considered, the world of LBI homebuilding remains relatively strong. While the pandemic has slowed some projects and led to new processes, the industry continues to work hard and create new infrastructure. Not only has the demand for single-family housing increased, but the ongoing need for materials and tradesmen has surely been a point of emphasis for the industry (and will continue to be in the future). There are certainly many ways that homebuilders have had to adapt due to the pandemic, and one design-build firm, Michael Pagnotta Architecture & Construction, is sharing the ways that they have navigated through these stormy waters. As with everything else, the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have rippled through the homebuilding industry locally and nationally—causing a steep rise in the cost of materials, especially for lumber. Industry experts say several events

led to the lumber shortage. When lockdowns first were implemented at the start of COVID-19, they temporarily shut down construction work. This in turn meant some mills had to shut down, creating a backlog. With Americans stuck at home under shutdowns, home projects and remodeling unexpectedly boomed and people began to use up much of the existing lumber supply. At the same time mill manufacturing was curtailed, once they all reopened, all of the safety protocols within the mills significantly slowed the production output moving forward. Then to top things off, wildfire season hit in the western half of the country, wiping out millions of acres of timberland and creating more of a need to rebuild structures. Then you can also factor in the Texas freeze and the Suez Canal blockage—and a perfect storm has brewed. Since the requirement for building materials is higher than ever before, market costs are determined by simple principles of supply and demand. A point of frustration from homeowners is the unfortunate fact that builders simply can’t guarantee timing or final price on certain kinds of home builds because of the unpredictability in the building material market and other variables that are out of builders’ control. So, what can resourceful builders do at times like these? We asked Mike Pagnotta how his team is adjusting

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to the new circumstances. “It called for the immediate elimination of waste,” he begins. “Whereas before, one would inconsequentially cut lumber and throw out the scraps, now we are resourceful with every square inch. We are repurposing lumber, such as using scrap wood for blocking, and have figured out how to have almost zero waste when it comes to utilizing any type of wood.” A truly eye-opening way that the industry itself could have been more conscious all along, the company is priding itself on expanding resources in all facets of the construction industry—turning over every rock in order to find acceptable alternatives to scarce resources and depleted materials. Another way the Pagnotta team has navigated through this construction climate is through unwavering client communications. Embracing the art of the Zoom meeting along with the rest of the world, the firm has therefore been able to increase the frequency and flexibility of holding appointments with clients in order to discuss the project, set schedules for in person visits when necessary and make the appropriate selections for each phase of the build at a faster pace. An interesting shortage that is simultaneously occurring has nothing to do with commodities, but everything to do with skilled tradesmen. Many of the old timers used the lockdown as the perfect opportunity to finally retire, and since the industry was already dwindling pre-COVID since every generation less and less people opt for trade school instead of a traditional college, the pool of skilled tradespeople becomes increasingly smaller and smaller. While established firms such as Pagnotta’s have enduring, time honored relationships with skilled tradesmen of the area, the demand of jobs still outweighs the resources of workers. Patience is always a virtue that homeowners need to remember to channel during these times, however, as there is only limited number of hours in the day and an overwhelming demand of homes to be built at this moment on Long Beach Island. As all parties are facing unique circumstances, adaptability will be important for the near future of construction. Luckily, ingenious homebuilders know where and how to source alternatives that are just as lovely and compa42 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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rable to common popular home selections that may be backordered or unattainable for the foreseeable future. Pagnotta stresses that homeowners at time need to identify their priorities, whether that be getting into one’s home as quickly as possible or waiting for the perfect fixtures, appliances, etc. and coming to terms with the fact that a 6-month waiting period for that fridge will more than likely delay the entire homebuilding timeline. Adaptability on behalf of the homeowners is key here as well, Michael adds, suggesting that homeowners truly ask themselves “what is the value of a summer lost/summer gained” to their family when choosing between alternative selections with no wait time versus backordered items for their homes. Other aspects of a homebuilding project that may be more worthy of a bit more focus by the homeowners, such as planning a lovely outdoor living space and installing a pool for

the kids, are things that contractors tend to have a little more control over which don’t experience as much delays in supplies as popular interior features such as the trendiest appliances or labor-intensive ornate trim work. The pandemic has challenged construction and design executives to push the boundaries and expand their horizons in order to incorporate new tactics and processes. By leveraging solid communication, knowledge of the local markets, and focusing on the bigger picture with the end-goals of a homebuilding project in mind, experienced design-build firms are able to complete projects successfully, even under difficult circumstances. Because in the end, all parties have the same goal in mind: how to get you into your beautiful, new beach home as quickly and smoothly as possible. bay-magazine.com 43

Beyond Investing. Connecting.

No matter where you are in life—just starting out, in your peak earning years, nearing retirement, or contemplating your legacy—we are here for you. CONTACT US TO DISCUSS HOW WE CAN HELP YOU CONNECT YOUR LIFE AND FINANCES. Peter is a resident of LBI and available for local appointments. PETER L. COSTANZO, JR., CFP®, CRPC®, AWMA®, AAMS® Executive Vice President / Wealth Management, Financial Advisor 1650 Crooked Oak Drive, Suite 100, Lancaster, PA 17601 717.519.4188 | CostanzoWM@janney.com | www.CostanzoWM.com © JANNEY MONTGOMERY SCOTT LLC • MEMBER: NYSE, FINRA, SIPC • REF: 235410-0321

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1418 Central Avenue, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008 609-494-0011 www.franciemilanokitchens.com BEST OF HOUZZ 2017-2021 bay-magazine.com 45

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Enhanced Seashore Living outdoor kitchens Written by Adam Binder Photos by Sheena Lynn Photography

Outdoor living is at the heart of life at the Jersey Shore. Those who embrace the seashore lifestyle enjoy spending all the time they can outside. Homes here on LBI and in many other shore towns have outdoor living spaces that can maximize that time. So why be stuck inside cooking meals for the family or food for entertaining? Upgrading your outdoor living space to include a kitchen can help you make the most of seashore living. The pleasure of outdoor entertaining can be somewhat diminished for those hosting a party or gathering. If you’re constantly in and out of the house for food, drinks, and utensils from the kitchen, you end up missing out on a lot of the fun. An outdoor kitchen can provide all the same conveniences of an indoor kitchen while keeping you in the center of the action. The aesthetic, recreational, and practical benefits it provides will truly increase the pleasure and enjoyment you derive from your outdoor living space.

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A well-designed and constructed hardscape is the foundation of every outdoor kitchen. Popular hardscape choices are natural stone, concrete, and pavers. These provide great durability and beauty that will create the perfect backdrop for bright, shiny outdoor appliances. When furnishing your outdoor kitchen, the sky is the limit. It goes without saying that you’ll want a great grill. A cook top or side burners can be installed into an adjacent countertop to accommodate sauces and side dishes. You can even have an oven or warming drawer installed, allowing you to do all the cooking in one place. Keeping up with the conveniences of your indoor kitchen, a refrigerator can be installed under the counter for drinks, condiments, and salads. Thinking about a wine cooler as well but wondering where to put the glasses and the corkscrew? Storage such as cabinets, drawers, and even a wine glass rack can easily be included in your outdoor kitchen design. True alfresco dining requires a nice space to relax and 48 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

enjoy the food. An adjacent patio with comfortable and attractive seating or a built-in bar where guests can congregate can be the perfect complement to your outdoor kitchen. When it’s time to clean up, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen will have a sink and it’s even possible to include a dishwasher. Don’t think the only time to use an outdoor kitchen is when you’re entertaining. As long as the weather cooperates, an outdoor kitchen will quickly become part of your everyday life. Whether it’s lunch for the kids and their friends while spending the day in the pool or a romantic candlelit dinner for date night, an outdoor kitchen can truly enhance outdoor living. In addition to its many conveniences,an outdoor kitchen can be an aesthetically pleasing addition to your landscape. The perfect addition to seashore living, a well-designed, properly built, outdoor kitchen will provide you and your family with years of enjoyment.

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STORAGE

Clever, Chic Storage Solutions for Your Kitchen Written by Ginny Padula, Owner of Town & Country Design Studio

Oftentimes there is such a heavy focus on the overall look of new builds or home renovation projects that clients will overlook one of the most important aspects of interior design: storage solutions. Sure paint, upholstery and flooring are crucial, but one could argue that cabinetry design is what pulls all of these individual elements together. While a cabinet’s sole purpose is as a storage solution, in the right hands, a cabinet can be much more than a box holding your

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belongings. At Town & Country Design Studio, our goal is to provide luxury, bespoke cabinetry for clients that achieve both surface-level beauty and unmatched functionality. We want your storage solutions to work for you, and we want them to look gorgeous while doing it. Here are some of our favorite kitchen storage solutions we’ve crafted to date. These installations are timeless, functional, custom pieces that you’ll want to implement in your next renovation or home design venture.

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SPICE PULL-OUT DRAWERS Spice drawers are the new spice racks! These custom drawer inserts have tiered shelves and custom glass shelves, perfect for cradling your cooking spices. Organizing your spices in a drawer will not only clear up counter space, but will preserve their intricate flavors by shielding them from excessive moisture, sunlight and heat.

SLIDE-OUT PANTRIES Pantry capacity is one of the top concerns clients have when redesigning their kitchens. In larger homes with excess space, a walk-in pantry is the obvious solution for food storage. But what if you don’t have the room for a walk-in? No problem. In this project, we designed deep, vertical shelving units that automatically slide out at the push of a button. Once extended, they allowed full access to everything stored inside and even featured an interior light to optimize visibility.

BELOW COUNTER COMPARTMENTS As open shelving becomes an ever-popular design element, it is increasingly important to have storage solutions below the countertops. Utensils, plates and other items you don’t want seen can be stored in clever compartments like the ones we installed beside this oven. Your utensils are out of sight, but not out of reach.

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FUNCTIONAL CORNERS Corners have always been tricky spots in kitchens. The ever-popular Lazy Susan cabinet is a great go-to, but there are other chic alternatives for optimizing those pesky corners. One of our favorites? This kidney shaped two-tiered pull out shelf that effortlessly glides out of the cabinet for full storage access. Each shelf can hold up to 55 lbs, making it a great spot for bulky pots, pans or even small kitchen appliances.

CABINET LIGHTING Equally important to finding the right storage solution is being able to see what you have stored in your cabinetry. Adding lighting under or inside of cabinets will optimize the functionality of your storage solutions by increasing the visibility of your belongings.

ABOVE COUNTER COMPARTMENTS The clients of this project wanted their kitchen to feel bright, open and clean. To accomplish this and preserve the spaciousness of the kitchen, we wanted to minimize the amount of appliances visually present. Within a roomy cabinet, we were able to tuck the microwave away in its own space with shelving above it for related amenities. With proper cabinetry design, there can be a spot for literally everything... including a clunky apparatus! Cabinetry design, like home technology, is constantly in flux. As professionals, it’s our job to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in interior design and translate them into unique, functional solutions. With so many options, it can be overwhelming and, to be frank, expensive to outfit a project to its full potential.

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Ask

THE DECORATOR Q & A with Thom Sweeney

Photo by John Martinelli

Thom Sweeney is founder and owner of Thom Sweeney Interiors, an award-winning full-service interior design studio specializing in contract design and residential business. With a well-trained and careful eye for quality, craftsmanship, and statement-making furnishings & textiles, Thom is recognized for his bold and elegant, yet timeless and classic styled designs.

Q. As a designer, what are the biggest challenges in decorating? A. There have been so many, especially recently with the COVID pandemic affecting virtually every aspect of our business, from deliveries to back orders, to reselects due to unavailability. All of which extends the timelines, especially for upholstered pieces, to from what had traditionally been six to eight weeks, to fourteen to eighteen weeks! That means the client isn’t happy because they have to wait so much longer for their goods, and the interior designers aren’t happy because, since they don’t get their final payment until everything is delivered and installed, that affects cash flow. So currently we’re faced with a lose-lose situation. As if those aforementioned challenges aren’t enough to go around, I would say that overarching all of them is the biggest challenge a designer faces (and ironically, it’s another type of delivery situation): It’s delivering the expected design result to the client. First of all, the client comes to the designer for help for a myriad of reasons. They either don’t have the time to deal with it, or they can’t find the sources necessary to fulfill their vision (you can’t find everything at Home Goods, for Cripes’ sake. Plus, as you may already know, most of the good merchandise is available only to the trade—meaning through interior designers or retailers). But here comes the most delicate situation to handle: The client is either too timid to make the decisions necessary to give the room the vitality it needs,

or, basically doesn’t have a clue as to how to go about it (they usually say things like “I’ll know it when I see it” a lot). And then, there’s the client who readily admits that they are out of their element handling interior design situations, so they realize that they have to seek out a professional to get it done. Secondly, but almost as important, it’s being able to interpret the client’s vision for the project, and deliver it in a way that it seems like the client’s idea all along. That’s why being in business for as long as I have and having a degree in Psychology has helped me be able to draw out the client so that I have a clear picture of what they want. But finally, the most important challenge for me as a designer is this: Since the client usually has seen and admired the designer’s work, and feels comfortable with what they see style-wise, it is now up to the designer to dig a little deeper to find out exactly what is about their work that the client has identified with, so that they can now add that information to the client’s vision and create that special synergy which makes for the perfect design. The formula is: One part designer’s taste and sources, mixed artfully with two parts client’s wishes and budgetary constraints. It’s as simple as that. But please remember that there should be no reticence or embarrassment on your part to call in an expert for professional advice and help. After all, there are things you just shouldn’t do yourself—like an appendectomy, or—the redesign of your home! bay-magazine.com 57

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THE ART OF COASTAL DECORATING Written by Lisa Simek

Whether one is designing a fresh look for a new home or looking to spruce up a space you already live in, interior decorating can be quite the intimidating task. Often times, homeowners don’t even know where to begin, let alone try to decipher proper furniture placement or how to stylishly add patterns and color to a room without it completely clashing. Because perfecting the look of one’s home may involve a lot of time and resources, the actual art of decorating should receive careful consideration. This is why homeowners choose to enlist in the services of a professional interior designer. Masters of their craft and artists in their own right, decorators have the experience, the design perspective, expert knowledge and even a few trade secrets to ensure that any decorating project—however big or small in scale—always runs smoothly, stays within budget, and exceeds the expectations that the client was going for.

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One of the benefits of choosing to furnish your home through Oskar Huber is the accessibility to their complementary professional interior design experts. The Oskar Huber designers are available to advise homeowners on all of the elements of interior design; from starting out the design process and weighing the choices, analyzing space, and working out what to do to improve the ergonomics of a home. An important skill that the designers have is the ability to identify personal requirements and personal style, even if the homeowner is unable to communicate their preferences clearly—a trait that only true artists possess. They get to know their clients and carefully consider each room or key area of a home in detail, offering advice and ideas, highlighting the key issues and fundamental design principles applicable to each space, providing helpful hints and guidelines on all aspects of decorating and furnishing that room. Accessory Buyer for Oskar Huber, Melanie Cavanagh, points out that one way interior designers may simplify the process is by choosing a major theme that can be used in specific rooms or throughout the entire home. Selecting this idea is sometimes as simple as building around a statement work of art or a beautiful, anchoring piece of furniture. Other times, the jumping off point is an area rug or sentimental family heirloom—it can even be the homeowner’s beloved color of choice. Creating a story bay-magazine.com 61

to build the room’s aesthetic around makes it easier to know what the client is looking for, and also helps tie everything together, resulting in a more polished look overall. Since Oskar Huber designers work with a variety of distinctive styles, they always seem to find the perfect combination of luxury and simplicity, with a coastal flair. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry for yourself or an accessory for your space, the finishing touch is what clients often miss the mark on when trying to design a room on their own. The final aspects of an interior tie a room together and these details are what make the space feel not only complete, but like home. At Oskar Huber, their interior designers are skilled at being able to bring the client’s vision to fruition with every last detail of a project, even if it’s something that the homeowner may have completely overlooked. They have access to local artisans and one-of-a-kind artwork, from vintage maps of LBI to a custom painting of the Barnegat Bay, blown glass décor and textiles galore. But what is most important, is their wherewithal to demonstrate time and again the true art of styling a room. 62 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

What are some other elements that interior designers bring to the table, one may ask? For starters, it is the ability to push the boundaries with a client’s safety net comfort level regarding colors and shapes. By making suggestions to break the “white wall” patterns of many coastal homeowners, designers often times assist homeowners in thinking outside of the box and earning their trust to try something new. When clients are hesitant to paint walls and other more permanent risks, the suggestions of accent colors through textiles, lamps and light fixtures, tabletop or wall accessories all offer homeowners a noncommittal way of experiencing new industry trends by taking away most of the potential negative consequences. The soul of a space may only truly be read by an artist, an interior designer. If you feel as though your special design is missing that pizzazz, then it is a good indication that it is time to call in a professional to suggest the perfect finishing touches that every space needs, but may be often overlooked. And remember, although coastal decorating trends may go in and out of style, a well-executed room designed by an Oskar Huber designer will surely transcend any fad.

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2021

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EXTENDING

your home Written by Jessica Scangarello from Bay Avenue Plant Company Photos by Ann Coen Photography

Over the past year, we have all learned to enjoy being at home more. Many homeowners have been focused on not only improving but bringing their living spaces to their fullest potential. With all of us spending more time outside, it makes sense to focus on extending your home to the outdoors. There are so many ways this can be achieved and you don’t have to have a giant backyard to create an amazing outdoor oasis. At Bay Avenue Plant Company, design always comes first. We begin every process with our clients by talking about how they want to use the space. We ask questions like, “What is your family make-up? How old are your kids and/or grandkids? How do you enjoy spending your time outside?” All of the answers to these questions factor into the design, plan and budget for our clients’ landscapes. Pools have become more and more popular and the trend is rising. A pool offers you the ability to enjoy the sun and the water, in the privacy of your own home. If you have decided you want a pool, it is really important to incorporate the size, type and placement into a design first. When you have a pool, it has to support the function of everything else around it. Working with a company that understands exposure, hardscape materials that surround the pool, furniture placement, and complimenting the pool with plantings to soften the feel and create a particular vibe, is really important.

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Outdoor Furniture is an integral part of your outdoor living experience. With the ever-changing and at times harsh elements of Long Beach Island, it is important to choose furniture that is not only appropriate for the high winds of the island, but that will last for years. Teak continues to be the highest performer in terms of weight and durability of a natural wood. If you like the look of wood and aren’t afraid to let your furniture mature and change into a beautiful work of art, teak is for you. There are also many beautiful and hardy all-weather woven products for a softer, more comfortable option. Whatever style you choose, it shouldn’t be an afterthought. Furniture should be incorporated into the design, so that you are making the most of every square inch of whatever size property you have. Fireplaces and Fire Pits are another way of extending the season on LBI. You love the outdoors here, why not stay and enjoy your oasis a little while longer? Placing a television above a fireplace or an outdoor kitchen is the perfect way to spend football season. The warmth of a fire will help you get a few more weekends of bliss in the fall and cooler months. Putting all these elements together, along with a well thoughtout plan and design, will provide you with a new outdoor living experience on Long Beach Island. 68 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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Now more than ever, personalized advice matters We can provide customized, comprehensive advice and guidance to help you stay on track to pursue your goals. When the world changes, we’re here to help. Let’s work through this together. The Somers Group Skye J. Gibson, CFP®, CPFA, C(k)P® Vice President Wealth Management Advisor 609.484.7101 skye.gibson@ml.com

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Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products:

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2021’S MOST ADMIRED INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS Walters weighs in on how COVID-19 has impacted how we view our homes. 2020 was a year that all of us will remember. We learned how to embrace the unknown. To anticipate a “new normal”. To appreciate the small moments as much as the big ones. And we also learned how to spend all of our time at home, a place where we now eat, sleep, work, dream, create and everything in between. Naturally, as we gazed around our lackluster living rooms and the bleak backdrops for our daily Zoom meetings, we couldn’t help but ponder what we could change. A new wall color? An at-home gym? A library? Yoga room? Art space? A new home entirely? Nothing is off the table as quarantines continue to lead us back to our makeshift home offices for what seems to be an unceasing amount of time.

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Janelle Welch, Interior Designer for Walters, sees this firsthand as homebuyers have been flocking to the local homebuilder’s headquarters to create new, custom homes that, in most cases, are a blend of their pre- and post-COVID lifestyles. “Homebuilding is in full swing along the Jersey Shore as homebuyers realize the importance of living in the present as opposed to delaying their long-term plans or life goals in regard to new homes and lifestyles,” said Welch. Coming from a strong architecture/interior design background, Welch focuses on interior selections at Walters’ Design Center in Barnegat. Unlike other homebuilders, Walters does not offer preset packages with options. “Every home is customized for each client,” said Welch. “We are not a production building company. We personally walk our clients through every step of the process to ensure they are getting a home that is livable, unique and exactly the way they envisioned it to be.” At their first meeting, Welch will ask homebuyers to think about the different aspects of their previous homes in terms of spaces that were either overutilized or underwhelmed. “Our goal is to create floorplans that offer spaces that are frequently utilized,” she said. “We also love to see inspiration photos to assess styles, aesthetics and small details.” When homebuyers inevitably ask Welch for design suggestions and trends, she first notes one of the biggest trends that we are parting away from this year. “The popular gray tones that we have used on our walls, floors and cabinets over the last few years is making its way out,” she said. “We are now gravitating toward a more neutral beige/white color palette with earthy undertones.” When looking at most of the home designs that Walters creates along the Jersey Shore, Welch sees most homebuyers opting for Transitional designs. “This is a delicate mix of modern and traditional touches in the home,” she said. “It is definitely a new take on classic trends.”

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One popular post-pandemic trend is utilizing bedrooms as home offices. “About 70 percent of floorplans have office space,” said Welch. “Since most of the homes we design are summer homes, we still tend to see a lot of floor plans with open living rooms, dining rooms and kitchens.” Now, let’s talk about the kitchen. Dual colored cabinets and pops of color are quite common. “We are actually seeing many of our homebuyers select a base color for their perimeter cabinets and a contrasting color for center island cabinets,” said Welch. “A few clients have also opted for white walls with colorful accents such as light, olive green,” said Welch.

Looking to the future, the demand for housing continues to be high. “With an extremely low inventory of available homes on the market and historically low interest rates, the desire for new homes – especially new construction homes – is stronger than ever,” said Matthew GaudetWalters, Director of Business Development for Walters. “Whether you prefer a two- or three-story home, a traditional shore colonial that is both versatile and symmetrical, or a contemporary marvel with clean lines and a connection to the outdoors, your home should be a reflection of both your lifestyle and personal preferences – both now and in the future.” As experts in the homebuilding industry, Walters highlights a streamlined process by offering one-stop

“Your home should be a reflection of both

shopping with in-house real estate, architecture and

your lifestyle and personal preferences.”

to truly build relationships with our homebuyers in

– M AT T H E W G A U D E T -WA LT E R S , DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

custom home services. “This gives us the opportunity order to build the home they’ve always wanted,” said Gaudet-Walters. “And now, because of this pandemic, we are connected to our homebuyers in new and different ways and we promise to continue to do our

Light quartz countertops with light graining finish off the ideal kitchen. “We are loving the idea of the quartz countertops traveling up the backsplash,” said Welch. “It’s a simple, natural progression.”

part in making their homebuying dreams a reality. That has always been, and will continue to be, what inspires so many families to build with Walters.”

Other popular trends include built-in cabinetry throughout the home, as well as two designated living spaces and wet bars that act as an extra area to use as prep space for entertaining. Double-sided or seethrough fireplaces are also on trend.

Walters Architecture, LLC. - Lic # N.J. AI19884

About Walters Walters has been building quality homes at the Jersey Shore since 1984. The company offers three divisions, Architecture, Custom Homes and Realty, to offer all-inclusive services that seamlessly bring a homebuyer’s dream vision to reality. Walters Architecture is a completely complimentary service that allows homebuyers to work with in-house architects to design the perfect home with the latest technology and quality building materials. Walters Realty offers full-service brokerage experts that help homebuyers find the right homesite depending on their desired location. Walters Custom Homes offers newly designed custom home plans that help homebuyers through the homebuilding process. Every custom home built by Walters meets or exceeds the energy efficiency requirements for ENERGY STAR® certification. Walters is located at 500 Barnegat Boulevard North, Building 400, Barnegat, NJ 08005. To learn more, call 609.770.6257 or visit waltershomes.com. bay-magazine.com 77

Let us Roll Out The Red Carpet for You

PLUMBERS, HEATING & AC EXPERTS

SAME DAY EMERGENCY INSTALLATION FAST TURNAROUNDS, PERSONALIZED SERVICE, UPFRONT PRICING 609 389 9970 | 347 W 8TH ST SHIP BOTTOM, NJ www.expressplumbingnj.net | expressplumbinglbi@gmail.com

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Master Plumber #12474 HVAC #19HC009117000

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A YEAR OF UNCERTAINTY Written by Diana Lentini

Photos by Michael John Murphy

Following a year of uncertainty and constant change as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the building and materials industry has seen its share of unique challenges and new opportunities. After a construction standstill in many parts of the country in 2020 due to lockdown orders, the forecast for 2021 and beyond looks considerably different. The team at Woodhaven Lumber and Millwork, a family-owned, full-service building material supplier dedicated to helping families make their dream homes come true, has been at the forefront of the recent industry changes. In business for over 40 years, Woodhaven, together with their trusted partners, is equipped and experienced in adapting to the ever-evolving construction landscape. 80 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

Most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, Woodhaven has been able to successfully adhere to safety ordinances while managing supply issues and other challenges, providing their clients the most seamless experience possible while continuing to create and nurture relationships based on trust, industry knowledge, fair prices and unequalled personalized service. “As an industry, we are in a fortunate position that the COVID-19 environment has allowed us to continue serving our customers and taking on new projects, all in a safe way,” says David A. Robinson, Vice President, Woodhaven Lumber. “We are very conscious that not every industry has been as lucky,” he adds.

For the homeowners considering tackling an improvement project, building an addition, or starting from the ground up, Woodhaven, along with some trusted names in the industry, shares their perspective on what to expect in today’s environment. NAVIGATING SUPPLY AND DEMAND, SAFELY It’s no secret that the timeline for a home renovation or new build may take longer these days. That’s why your choice of preferred supplier—and the relationships they have—is more important than ever. Woodhaven works only with reputable brands and distributors, allowing you to focus on the fun stuff: creating your dream home with your building partner. “At Woodhaven, we have the facilities and personnel to service every part of the market, from homeowner, to contractor, to custom home builder, to large regional builder. We have multiple locations in New Jersey, and for every product we sell, we have product specialists,” says Paul Glinn, Sales Manager at Woodhaven. “Due to supply and transportation issues, it’s become harder to get certain products. But one thing our sales staff does continuously is place a focus on engagement and communication with the customer,” says Robinson. “We’re honest with how long products will take to be delivered and try to offer alternatives that will come quicker while still fitting the budget. The relationships we have with our suppliers allow us to have more informed conversations. We’re quick to pick up the phone and talk to our partners,” he adds. It’s these relationships with industry-leading manufacturers like Trex®, Andersen®, and Weyerhaeuser®, to name a few, that allow Woodhaven to get the facts— fast—and proactively relay information to their clients. Over the past year, with an unprecedented rate of the workforce working remotely, Woodhaven has seen an increase in home improvement projects of all sizes in the Long Beach Island area, along with additions and new construction. Outdoor decking has been especially popular, as canceled vacation plans and lockdown orders have forced homeowners to get creative with staycations by creating dreamy backyard oases that will serve their purpose for years to come. Trex, an industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance composite decking products and supplier to Woodhaven, has navigated this influx in new projects with a well-designed supply plan. “We are fortunate that the COVID-19 environment has been an accelerant to our business, as not all businesses have benefitted. Demand for Trex products and decking as a category was robust prior to the crisis but, as time at home took on even more significance, the market absolutely exploded,” a Trex spokesperson shared. “Trex Company had a supply plan strategy in place prior to the pandemic that provided a framework for the delivery of its products that helped keep us informed and better stocked than we otherwise may have been.” This increase in demand for products extends across the industry. “Supply and demand is driving prices up. The majority of manufacturers – if not all – have had multiple increases over the past year. The availability of many products has been challenging, which is why planning and being proactive is absolutely critical. Our customers are aware of what’s going on, and they are continuing to build which makes our communication that much more important,” Glinn says of Woodhaven’s clientele. Weyerhaeuser, a pioneer in the forestry industry and manufacturer of lumber and engineered lumber, and longstanding partner to Woodhaven, is approaching this volatile market by asking these questions: How can we continuously improve our products and services? How can we engage in a safe way? bay-magazine.com 81

“COVID has allowed us to refresh, take a step back, and improve efficiencies,” says Val DeNoia, Territory Manager, North Atlantic Region at Weyerhaeuser. Part of the process, DeNoia explains, is trying new tools to interact with customers. “Weyerhaeuser has done hundreds of webinars—it’s one of the first things we worked on once COVID restrictions came about. It’s hard without body language, but we had attendees from all over the country, even Alaska. This would have never happened before COVID, and this efficiency and expanded reach is not going to go away,” DeNoia says. In an industry that relies heavily on relationships, maintaining strong connections is key. DeNoia says: “Service is everything. All sales come down to relationships. That’s why not being face-to-face during COVID is such a big deal. But we are committed to service and taking care of our customers.” According to a spokesperson for Andersen, the largest window manufacturer in the United States, and trusted brand carried by Woodhaven, an initial decline in order rates early in the pandemic required the company to temporarily reduce areas of their workforce. However, following the initial decline, they experienced a rebound in sales across all areas of their business, which allowed them to quickly bring manufacturing operations back to full capacity, and adding more capacity in some areas. “With homeowners spending a lot more time in their homes, Andersen has seen the number of home projects rise. As more and more people are choosing to invest in their homes right now, Andersen is proud to be at the

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forefront, serving customers in new ways and setting new standards when it comes to delighting our customers,” the spokesperson shared. BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS Access to relationships with top-notch suppliers is just one of the many advantages to working with Woodhaven. As a trusted partner to esteemed local builders like the Garabedian Company and TJ Fluehr JR Custom Builders, Woodhaven can truly be involved in every step of your home improvement project, from start to finish. Of course, this past year has not been without challenges—across all industries—but these local builders have fortunately been able to creatively and safely continue to serve their clients. Matt Garabedian, owner of the Garabedian Company, a real estate brokerage and building company, is a second-generation real-estate broker who approaches building with a unique viewpoint. “We have a different approach than the other qualified builders. We don’t only focus on the final product. With our background in brokerage, we truly keep an eye on the client’s equity at completion and look at where their end value will be,” Garabedian explains. “Due to COVID, people are spending more time in Long Beach Island, and investing their money in either their existing property, or buying more property,” Garabedian comments on the local real estate and new construction market. “We see people currently looking for a new construction build, adding larger space to their existing home, as well as an increased interest in outdoor living spaces.”

OPEN HOUSE

Garabedian has done his best to continue to safely meet with clients on site, following all social distance and mask protocols. Even prior to COVID, the Garabedian Company has placed emphasis on communication, quality and value—tenets that allow the business to build strong, lasting relationships with their clients. “Supply and demand has been a little tough. It’s been tougher to give someone a fixed cost on a build just because the prices are going up and down. As long as you’re being upfront with the client and explaining the volatility to them, you should not have an issue,” he says. “Woodhaven is one of the main suppliers of all the products that we use. I am a loyal individual to those who take care of us. I am not their only client, but they treat you like they are. It’s a pleasure to work with them,” he adds. Another local builder, TJ Fluehr, president and owner of Ted Fluehr Jr. Custom Home Builders, which has been in business on Long Beach Island for over 40 years, has been working with Woodhaven for over two decades. Fluehr builds custom homes and specializes in working with clients from beginning to end on their new builds. “I have a great relationship with Woodhaven, especially when it comes to working with their kitchen department,” Fluehr says. “COVID has brought a lot of people out of the cities,” Fluehr comments. “If you work on LBI, you benefit from those who have relocated from the city to their beach houses. The ability to work remotely has been great for us, as customers are now spending more time at home, and focusing on the homes they are building.” “The number one request we’ve been seeing lately is Wi-Fi – everyone wants increased connectivity in their homes. We have set up offices for video conferencing, which people have been doing for years. Now, since everyone is working under one roof, we are seeing an increase in requests for sound deadening as well, to decrease noise transfer throughout the house as the entire family does their work or schooling remotely,” Fluehr comments. LOOKING AHEAD After more than a year of remote working and virtual learning, you may find yourself prioritizing home improvement projects that you previously glanced over. Now is the perfect time to begin planning any upgrades for your summer home or main residence. Working with a reputable industry leader like Woodhaven will ensure that your lifestyle and budgetary needs are met, while resting assured that you’re investing in high quality items, built and installed by experienced crews, that are made to last. Ready to get started? Visit woodhavenlumber.com to browse our galleries for inspiration, or stop into one of our four showrooms in Manahawkin, Lakewood, Point Pleasant or Shrewsbury.

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OPEN HOUSE

Stay Cool All

Summer Long

A/C Maintenance Tips from Express Plumbing Written By David Hill, Owner of Express Plumbing Heating and Cooling Photo By Michael John Murphy

As I sit here in my Ship Bottom office writing this column, I’m watching many of you travel over the bridge to Long Beach Island after a long, arduous winter. The summer we’ve all been dreaming of is finally here! While long, sun-filled beach days lie ahead, hot, stifling temperatures follow close behind. Which begs the question: is your A/C unit ready to operate at peak capacity? Chances are, your system is in need of a little tune-up. Whether you own ductless mini splits or a conventional central air conditioning system, it’s important to ensure your A/C is running efficiently before heading into the dog days of summer. Follow these quick and easy maintenance steps and enjoy a cool, comfortable season on LBI!

Clean the Outside Unit Your A/C outdoor unit might be an eye-sore in your backyard, but resist the urge to shroud it in foliage. The condensing unit should have ample space to “breath,” so to speak. Trim any back trees or bushes near your outdoor condensing unit to ensure good airflow around the unit. Doing so will also prevent excess dirt, dust and debris from getting into the coils.

Clean the Coils Over time, the evaporator and condenser coils on your ductless mini split system collect dirt and grime. Turn your ductless mini split off and remove the cover from the unit. Give the coils a good spray with a garden hose to knock off loose contaminants. A clean coil is a happy, optimally-performing coil!

Ductless Mini Splits

Clean the Inside Unit

Ductless mini splits are heating and cooling systems that allow you to manage the temperature from roomto-room. These systems have both an outdoor component and an indoor component and do not distribute air through ductwork as most modern systems do. Though a ductless mini split system requires minimal maintenance, you should follow the below steps to ensure your unit is fully operational.

Clean your individual, indoor wall units by lifting their front covers and removing their filters. Wash the filters thoroughly in your sink and allow them to dry before reinstalling!

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Central Air Conditioning A conventional central air conditioning unit is one of the more common, cost-effective cooling solutions, as it distributes air throughout your entire home via ductwork. Like ductless mini splits, central A/C requires minimal maintenance, but an annual cleaning can improve the efficiency of your overall system. Check out the simple steps you can take to improve the functionality of your cooling solution!

Change the Filters The filter in your central A/C system should be replaced approximately twice a year. If left unchanged, the filter can become clogged with the dirt particles it filters out from the air and the resulting build-up will inhibit proper airflow. To guarantee your system’s efficiency, simply remove the grate that covers your filter and switch the old one out with a fresh replacement.

Wash the Condensing Unit As an outdoor unit subject to the elements, it’s inevitable that your condenser will collect dirt, pollen and dust over time. This dirt can affect the functionality of

your cooling solution by blocking the unit from pulling in air. It’s important to routinely clean your condenser to prevent this build-up of debris. Simply remove the condenser covers and wash the condenser by spraying it with a garden hose from top to bottom and… voila!

Check for Leaks Conducting leak tests is a very important step in A/C maintenance. A leaky system can not only leave you hanging in the stifling summer temps, but it can also run up your energy bill. One way to spot a refrigerant leak in your central air conditioning system is to perform a dye test. Simply send fluorescent dye into your A/C unit and wait for it to circulate. If there are any leaks present, the dye will pour through them. No matter what kind of cooling solution you have installed in your home, regular maintenance is vitally important as we approach some of the hottest days of the year. Routine cleanings and system inspections will improve the functionality of your air conditioning unit so you can stay cool in the sweltering months ahead. Questions or issues related to your A/C system? Visit our website at expressplumbingnj.net/.

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HEALTHY LIVING

RELIEVE PAIN, IMPROVE FUNCTION Q & A with Dr. Ted Siciliano, DC Questions by Lisa Simek

Q: What can I do to improve my golf game, particularly ball striking, and how can I prevent golfing injuries? A: The game of golf is a great sport that everyone across the broad-spectrum society can participate in. There are many factors to golf which include physical skill, conditioning, mental focus, endurance, and competitiveness—and many golfers often times undervalue the biomechanics and physical conditioning that are needed to play the game. There is an extreme amount of mechanical force, which can be up to 10 times a person’s body weight, exerted on the spine during the golf swing. Every joint involved in the swing is taken through its maximum range when hitting off the tee and when approaching the green. The biggest problem the average golfer has in playing golf is their lack of overall physical fitness and endurance conditioning. Snow birds have the advantage of playing through the winter whereas the locals are left to deal with the elements, so if a golfer puts their clubs in the closet for the winter and does not work on fitness and conditioning off season, chances are they will not be physically prepared to play when spring arrives. If a player really enjoys playing golf and wants to improve their game, they must give some attention to their conditioning. 88 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

The first step in golf fitness is improving your cardiovascular conditioning. A good way to start your golf fitness program is to simply begin walking, walk to the beach, to the bay, on the beach or just around the neighborhood. If walking isn’t your thing, then ride a bike, use a tread mill, an elliptical unit or something you enjoy doing. Initially, start off slowly to let your body acclimate to this new activity, say 10 to 15 minutes or ¼ mile, 3 to 4 times per week (and never on a day you play golf). Consistency with your fitness program is key, not the amount of time or distance you go in one session. Some activity is better than no activity because over time its effects are cumulative. After 6 to 8 weeks of a consistent reasonable cardiovascular exercise you will begin to experience improved physical endurance and mental wellbeing. It should also be noted that cardiovascular exercise specifically walking has been extensively researched and shown to help control chronic low back pain. The next aspect of your golf fitness program is to incorporate a gentle muscle stretching program, the benefits of which are truly remarkable. Muscle stretching for at least 10 minutes before golf or any daily activity will help improve flexibility and increase circulation throughout different muscle groups. Stretching for flexibility

will give better ranges of motion to joints and help prevent pulling and/or tearing of muscles. Stretching for circulation will help improve the overall durability and performance of your muscles. Dynamic stretches are active movements that cause your muscles to stretch, but the stretch is not held in the end position. These stretches are the most effective prior to playing golf in order to prepare to swing a golf club. These, as well as static stretches (where you hold a stretch for a period of 30-45 seconds) should be performed showily and deliberately, not overly aggressive. Some Dynamic stretches for golf would be a standing side stretch, shoulder flossing and gently taking your golf swing, slowly. Some common static stretches post workout for your low back and lower extremities are calf, hamstring, hip flexors, hip rotator, knee-to-chest (low back), quadriceps and side bends (latissimus dorsi) stretches. Stretches for the upper back, shoulders and chest are the bear hug (upper back), rotator cuff (shoulders) and chest stretches. The final phase of your golf conditioning program should focus on muscle strength and endurance, which is the horsepower that gives us the ability to produce force. Increasing muscle strength levels leads to increased club head speed and a more powerful ball strike. Moderate, sensible and appropriate strength training benefits golf performance and most certainly prevents injuries. For the average golfer, endurance training is preferable since each training session is quick and highly effective in obtaining the desired result. This type of training consists of high repetition, low resistance exercises performed slowly to engage concentric and eccentric muscle contractions. Exercise bands are excellent for this activity since they are low tech, inexpensive, easy to store and travel easily. Alternatively, one could use light hand weights. The key is to start slowly, say exercising once every third day for the first month, and then three time per week (but never on a day when you’re playing golf). Using exercise bands, start with 3 to 4 pounds of resistance doing 10 to 12 repetitions for only one set. When you’re ready to increase your intensity, just add more repetitions: 15, then 18, then 20 and more, if desired. This type of training will increase the ability of your muscles to contract for a longer period of time. Your initial focus should be on upper body exercises, i.e., Biceps Triceps Deltoids, mid-back, upper back, Latissimus Dorsi and chest. As you become acclimated to this program you can then add lower body exercises.

Photo by Michael John Murphy - Born By the Sea Photography

For more than 30 years, Dr. Ted has built a reputation helping the residents of our region find relief from back and leg pain without

the need for invasive surgery. He is a leading practitioner for one of the most effective techniques used by chiropractors today, The Cox Technique, which is a non-force adjustment procedure that helps the spine heal naturally based on principles of both chiropractic

and osteopathy. Below you will find his answer to the most popular questions asked by Bay Magazine readers. For more information about Dr. Ted’s practice, visit DrTedSiciliano.com.

Remember consistence of your strengthening program is key to your success. The benefits of cardiovascular, stretching and strength training are cumulative, so doing some exercise is much better than not doing any exercise at all. Lastly, always keep your head down and above all, have fun. -Dr. Ted bay-magazine.com 89

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We restore healthy spine function and ENHANCE quality of life

Ted Siciliano, D.C. | Manahawkin Chiropractic Center 720 South Main Street Route 9 South Manahawkin, New Jersey 609-597-9333 | www.drtedsiciliano.com Non-surgical treatment of Spinal Stenosis | Herniated Discs of the Cervical or Lumbar Spine Degenerative Disc Disease | Neck pain with or without arm pain | Sciatica

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MOVE BREATH FOCUS & BE HAPPY Written by Katie Ribsam, Co-Founder of Yoga Bohemia Katie RIbsam is a soul searching, sun loving yogi residing in beautiful Long Beach Island. You can find Katie all summer long teaching in one of her LBI studios, Yoga Bohemia - one in Surf City, one in North Beach Haven and her newest location in Bay Village.

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In autumn of 2020, I received a unique request from a client: to teach yoga to his pharmaceutical company employees online 2 days a week. Having been a yoga teacher for many years and having worked at an office job myself, I have experienced the benefits, firsthand, that daily physical movement and social interaction create for an individual with a static lifestyle. So it didn’t surprise me that in a time when stress, isolation and worry are at an all-time high, CEOs like Scott Braunstein of Marinus Pharmaceutical would recognize that a bit of corporate mindfulness could do his remote staff some good. When asked what his reason was for starting a Yoga & Mindfulness program at Marinus, Braunstein said: “It’s been a stressful year for all and we recognized the importance of creating a unique outlet to help our team through these difficult times. My wife Lisa and I practiced yoga for years and I thought the influence of an upbeat, energetic instructor of yoga with an inspiring attitude was just what the doctor ordered. Providing these opportunities to practice movement and meditation during the work day have not only given my employees relief from stress and added some needed activity beyond sitting at their screens, but have also created a new sense of teamwork, comradery, and a social outlet. Like Braunstein, employers around the world have been implementing corporate mindfulness programs into their companies to ease stress in the

workplace. After all, stress can have a deluge of mental and physical disadvantages for employees everywhere. According to a study out of University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, “Workplace stress is associated with many poor health outcomes, both mental and physical; workplace stress is linked with decreased productivity, increased occupational injury, and absenteeism, as well as with substantially higher medical expenditures among highly stressed employees. By helping employees manage stress better, mindfulness-based practices, whether formal or informal, can improve workers’ health, increase productivity, and reduce employers’ costs.” So yes, it helps the bottom line, but as Braunstein points out, truly caring about your employees’ well-being and giving them opportunities to exercise both their physical and social bodies during these stressful times is enough reason on its own. While the employees of Marinus Pharmaceutical may have had a head start in practicing mindful movement, the rest of the world needn’t lag behind! Whether in the workforce or not, mindful movement can do wonders for your overall well-being. So what is “mindful movement” and how does it actually benefit participants? When considering mindful movement, we look at 3 key qualities that (when combined) set these practices apart from other forms of exercise.

“Irene Yoga Surfers” “Irene, a student and teacher of Yoga Bohemia, practices Eka Pada Rajakapotasana (Mermaid Pose) as surfers pass by on the beach. Both yoga asana and surfing require elements of Mindful Movement : body, breath and gaze. Photo credit: Jason Gumble

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The first quality is movement designed to steady the body. Ideally we want to apply the appropriate range of stress on the entire body in an effort to maintain strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health without overdoing it. We want to experience a full practice that moves our spine in all directions, works into flexion, extension and rotation of our joints and leaves our body feeling adequately worked. But there is more to this movement than just exercising our physical body. Mindful movement means that we are cultivating conscious body-awareness during our exercise which is why these modalities are so powerful in our overall lives. In yoga we consider the mind and body as equal and complementary fields of our beings and also as a continuum of one another. Thus, when cultivating the skill of awareness in our physical bodies through exercise we are sharpening that skill of awareness as it applies to our minds. And this awareness becomes a super-power. The more time we spend training the mind to be aware, the easier it is to identify and correct everything in our lives from the physical (like our posture) to the mental (like our emotional responses). When we practice perfect posture, we become less impacted by the results of poor posture. Similarly, when we practice identifying and adapting our passing mental states, we find ourselves becoming less impacted by those too! With time, these transient feelings known as “mental states” are replaced by healthy, long lasting “mental traits” like genuine happiness and joy. The second quality of mindful movement is breath designed to steady the nervous system. This is a huge piece of the equation as calm and steady breath are magic for the mind-body complex. Have you ever been in a stressful situation and naturally, without even thinking, taken a slow, deep breath? Our bodies are incredibly intelligent and they know that a slow, deep breath will immediately pull our parasympathetic nervous systems online, helping us find a relaxed logical response to the situation instead of a reactive response. So how does it work? Our nervous systems are broken into two parts, the sympathetic nervous system which controls the fight or flight response and our parasympathetic nervous system which controls the rest and relax 94 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

response. While our fight or flight response is necessary to overcome some situations, it is also quite stress-inducing to both our bodies and minds. The fight or flight response has been linked to a host of health problems including high blood pressure, immune suppression, depression and anxiety. Thus, while fight or flight can help us in situations of extreme stress, reserving it for when it’s truly necessary and training ourselves to activate the parasympathetic system during life’s minor stressors can do us a world of good. Ample research has shown that breath is a gateway to triggering the nervous system. Just as shallow, fast breathing can trigger the sympathetic nervous system; slow, deep breathing triggers the parasympathetic which is why breath is fundamental to mindful movement modalities. The more we practice activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the more likely it will become our default system when we are faced with a physical or mental stressor. The third quality of mindful movement is gaze designed to steady the mind. In yoga we call this Drishti and it is described as a soft yet focused gaze. Why would the way you focus your sight have an impact on the results of your movement? Well, from a yoga perspective, we are taught “a wandering eye is a wandering mind” and our goal in yoga (even though there is a plethora of physical and anatomical benefits) is really meditation: to get out of the mind’s incessant way of pondering and live in-the-moment. From an anatomical perspective the retina of the eyes are linked to the brain and our vision is one of the direct ways our minds connect with and interpret the world. Thus, while steadying our gaze our visual inputs come into focus and the mind follows suit. While practicing drishti it is important not to stare but to instead rest your gaze in a specific space. This subtle nuance is important because softening the eyes has a direct calming effect on the mind as the nerves in the outer corners of the eye correlate with that of the parasympathetic nervous system. Give it a try! Likely you will find that when your eyes move, your mind is moving too. However, when you fix your gaze, your mind will find quietude in stillness.

“Conrad, a student of Yoga Bohemia, practices Eka Pada Bakasana (One Legged Crane Pose) as surfers enter into the ocean. Both yoga asana and surfing require all the elements of Mindful Movement : body, breath and gaze. Photo credit: Jason Gumble

“Angelica, a student of Yoga Bohemia, practices Virabhadrasana III (Warrior 3), a Yoga Asana requiring all 3 elements of Mindful Movement: body, breath and gaze. Photo credit: Jason Gumble

ple in my camps and lessons with many different backgrounds and personalities. The transformational experience that the meditational aspect of surfing offers is shared by everyone. This can be physically noted on every student from the start of the lesson to the end of the lesson. The same can be said for every experienced surfer before and after a surf session. Surfing washes away each pain of stress or anxiety and lifts you up to the beautiful experience of the present moment. Proper surf techniques promote flexibility and strength (both physically and mentally), steady breathing, and attentive focus of the present surroundings. After learning these techniques by balancing on a board in moving water they are much more easily applicable in all other areas of life!” What’s even more amazing about mindful movement is that it’s not one size fits all! In the yoga world alone, some practitioners prefer strength or cardiovascular base variations like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, while others might prefer slower variations like Yin or Restorative. But mindful movement is not reserved solely for yoga as there are other movement modalities that can fit the bill! LBI is active! There is hardly a day that you won’t spot bikers and joggers on Ocean Avenue, or stand up paddle boarders in the bay. These and other forms of movement can also qualify as mindful-based practices. One of particular interest to our island is surfing.

In this current, “stay-at-home” world with national stress levels and isolation rates higher than ever before, mindful movement has never been more crucial to our overall health and well-being. So no matter what style of mindful movement piques your interest, just get out and move! After all, the equation is simple: move, breath, focus and be happy! “Sage, a student of Yoga Bohemia practices Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana (Extended Hand to Toe pose) a Yoga Asana requiring all 3 elements of Mindful Movement: body, breath and gaze. Photo credit: Jason Gumble

Living on LBI means you’ve probably been in the company of one, two or three-hundred surfers … and through sheer observation, I’ve noticed elements of mindful movement in this aquatic sport. I asked around our community for input and Steff Magallanes, owner of The Sandy Avocado Surf Camp on LBI, had some novel ideas. Here’s what Magallanes had to say on the topic: “Surfing demands agility and relaxed focus across every level of riding and is incredibly meditative. The physical and mental benefits are the same whether the surfer is a student or professional rider, adolescent or senior. Nirvana has been defined as ‘a transcendent state in which there is neither suffering, desire, nor sense of self’. This sense can be felt while riding a wave. The sensation is what keeps us all paddling back out into the ocean day after day, and wave after wave. This joyful experience is what resonates amongst surfers. Young riders experience just as much emotion as older riders do both in and out of the water. While teaching surfing and skimboarding over the last ten years I have seen all types of peobay-magazine.com 95

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No Time to Wait for Health Care Written by Anne Green

Fear of contracting the COVID-19 virus has caused many people to delay otherwise routine health care appointments, and has caused many to resist going to the emergency department, even when urgent symptoms arise. While some may feel that it was safer to stay away from the doctor, even when other health issues are present, it can be extremely dangerous and may have long-term effects on your health. “We have been seeing more acute cases in the Emergency Department at Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center that require hospitalization due to delayed care that otherwise would have been prevented through diagnostic testing, screenings and and medication,” said Paul Mastrokyriakos, D.O., FACOEP, medical director, emergency medicine. “Fortunately, the situation of avoiding care is getting better. Don’t ignore symptoms, faster treatment means better outcomes - both in terms of medical bills and your health.” Cancer screenings, as well as other important health screenings, can help find disease before symptoms exist, making them easier to treat. In June 2020, the National Cancer Institute shared a predictive model that showed how the decrease in mammograms and colonoscopies in recent months could lead to an excess of 10,000 more breast and colorectal cancer deaths over the next decade. Chronic health conditions, like diabetes or hypertension, are also not taking a break because of COVID. It’s critical to continue to see your health care provider regularly if you suffer from these conditions, and regularly get health screenings such as blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. Symptoms of a heart attack including; chest discomfort (pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain), discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as the arms, back, neck jaw or stomach and shortness of breath, cold sweats nausea or lightheadedness should be addressed immediately. “Medical interventions are necessary to prevent and reduce 98 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

the effects of a heart attack or stroke if they are addressed early enough,”said James Orlando, M.D., cardiologist and president, Southern Ocean Medical Center Medical Staff. “It’s important that if you experience any warning signs of stroke or heart attack, do not wait to take action and call 911. Waiting to get the care you need can cause significant, life-threatening issues.” Overall, it’s important to remember that staying healthy is part of staying safe. Check in with your health care provider to see what safety measures they have in place, but don’t delay getting the health care you need. The fear of COVID-19 may have been reasonable at the start of the pandemic. The good news is that personal protective equipment (PPE) is in good supply, major strides have been made in testing for the virus, and temperature checks and social distancing measures are being practiced at all Hackensack Meridian Health locations. COVID-19 vaccines are now available since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave emergency authorizations for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines in mid-December 2020. The single-dose Johnson & Johnson Janssen vaccine has also been approved and is available at most vaccination centers. “The vaccine is highly effective at preventing illness and slowing the spread of the virus,” said Michele Morrison, MPH, BSHA, R.N., president and chief hospital executive, Southern Ocean Medical Center. “Those who have been fully vaccinated can start to do some things that they had stopped doing because of the pandemic; however, prevention steps such as wearing masks, socially distancing and washing your hands often should continue to be practiced until most of the population is vaccinated.” Do Your Part, Get Vaccinated Today The Vaccination Center at Southern Ocean Medical Center is located at 1173 Beacon Ave, Manahawkin, N.J. To make an appointment, visit COVID-19 Vaccine Registration. The Vaccination Center is also offering walk-in appointments Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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THE ULTIMATE

Fit-cation

Embark on a Tropical Fitness Retreat with Black Sheep Studios Written by Sarah Hodgson

While LBI is a heavenly utopia in the summer season, overflowing with warm weather attractions, extravagant cuisine and well-kempt beaches, the barrier island is not immune to the wintry atrocities that plague seasonal territories (even the most diehard, LB-Islanders need a vacation from their vacation homes come December). Fortunately for area folks, Black Sheep Studios in Haven Beach has a sunny solution to the winter blues: tropical fitness retreats. Devon Karvan opened Black Sheep Studios in 2016 with a mission to provide Long Beach Island a unique, butt-kicking workout experience. At the trendy Haven Beach space, there’s a little something for everyone: kickboxing, spin, outdoor beach boot camp, barre, TRX, yoga, Halo, mat pilates. But perhaps most unique

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among Black Sheep’s extensive menu of offerings is the “retreat experience,” now in its third year. So what is the “retreat experience?” Simply put, Black Sheep’s fitness gurus whisk clients away to a faraway paradise for over a week of rest, relaxation and exercise. Karvan wanted to create an experience where people could enjoy Black Sheep Studios’ unique workout program in an equally unique destination. Preferably someplace tropical. “There is nothing we want more than to migrate

somewhere warm for a minute, especially in March,” said Karvan. “That month offends me. Freezing, windy and grey with spring just barely on the horizon. No thanks.” Black Sheep retreats are “all inclusive.” Bundles include lodging, ground transportation, excursions and healthy, gourmet meals prepped by a personal chef. And while wellness getaways with Black Sheep might incorporate lavish amenities, pricing is flexible for interested parties. “We always accommodate by offering payment plans that are tailored specifically to your needs.

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We also tend to have a number of options available such as rooms that can be shared with up to four people, which cuts the cost of the trip down significantly,” said Karvan. Accommodations are typically luxury villas or boutique hotels equipped with outdoor, often oceanfront fitness spaces so that retreat-goers can take in their surroundings while working out. For example, during the studio’s 2020 trip to Belize, their poolside yoga sessions just so happened to overlook a private beach and crystal clear water. The standard retreat day is structured to include exercise, relaxation and, perhaps most exciting, exploration. From horseback riding on the beaches of Costa Rica and snorkeling in Belize, to kayaking through mangroves and biking to a Mayan sweat lodge in Tulum, the Black Sheep retreats are the stuff of adventure novels. “We encourage everyone to go on the excursions because the places we go are usually unique to the country,” said Karvan. While excursions are encouraged, Karvan and her team do not enforce a hard and fast itinerary by any means. When asked if a retreat-goer is bound to a mandatory fitness regime on the Black Sheep escape, Karvan gave a resounding, “Hell no!” Exercise may be the premise of the getaway, but it is certainly not a requirement. “We stress to everyone that it’s their vacation and you should do, or not do, whatever makes you happy. If you want to workout two times a day, go for it. If you want to drink aperol spritzes and nap all day, I love that for you,” said Karvan. “No one cares. You do you.” Retreat benefits and takeaways will vary from person to person depending on their individual objectives. Whether you’re kickstarting a healthier lifestyle, or simply forgoing March on LBI, a wellness retreat can offer the focus and inspiration you need to accomplish your mental, physical health goals. “For some it’s stepping out of their comfort zone and taking a trip where they don’t know very many people. For others it’s a bonding experience with friends or a family member,” said Karvan. “The bonding with like-minded people is always inevitable and has led to some lasting friendships.” Who could and should attend? Karvan says anyone. Husbands, wives, friends, strangers, sisters, cousins. All are welcome. “If you like to travel, meet really cool people and work out once in a while, you should probably sign up for 2022,” said Karvan.

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Exotic sights, group camaraderie, delicious cuisine and fun, high intensity workouts? Count us in. For more information about Black Sheep Studios and their fitness retreats, visit https://blacksheepstudiosnj.com/.

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Photo by Michael John Murphy

Owner Sarah Jordan Five 0 Six Surf Boutique Written by Carolyn Mijal Photos by Allie Gray

Summer is finally here and we are ready to get out of the house and shed our sweatpants cocoons and emerge into the golden rays of summer expressing ourselves to the fullest. The question, after living in cotton comfort for so long, what is even “in” fashion? Fortunately for LBI locals Five 0 Six Boutique is in the know, for all of your style needs. For those who want to live in their fullest fashion, or those who just want to change up their wardrobe, the team at five0six has you covered. Summer 2021 is bringing with it all groovy & rad vibes with the 70’s and 90’s making a huge comeback. There is ample style-ability that comes from these two decades. The distinctive staple pieces that made each decade iconic are being seen everywhere, as well modernized way to embrace those icon trends. Whether you are on the Bay Side, Beach Side, or just visiting for the summer; you may be are a fashionista or just want to update your look, there are several ways to achieve this without breaking the bank. bay-magazine.com 105

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Last summer tie-dye made its comeback and this summer is no exception: tie-dye is here to stay in new silhouettes and patterns. These psychedelic bright fun colors such as hot pink and bright yellow can be used to enhance an outfit with an elegant silk scarf or as a statement with a gorgeous flowy maxi dress with gold hoop earrings. Bright and bold colors pop when the fabric is textured. While texture (silk, linen, crochet, etc) might seem intimidating, it is a creative way to add depth to an outfit. One of the most accessible ways to switch up your style for the summer is by adding that pop of color through sunglasses. A simple, sophisticated, and summery way to spice up your style and not have a big impact on your budget. The team at Five 0 Six Boutique‘s current favorite sunglasses are the Royal from ISea. The Royal is a modern take on the classic aviator frame that is flattering for most faces. In keeping on trend with the 70’s theme, fun and loud colors work in a functional way when choosing a new pair of sunglasses for the summer. The variety of shapes, colors, and styles make summer shades a fun and diverse way to soak in all the summer vibes. They even work with keeping with the 90’s trend and for the sophisticated shopper. The 90s are synonymous with grunge and rock but what about the flip side of fashion from that decade? Polos, mom jeans and blazers my friend! I know, I know, you may be thinking, 106 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

Photo by Michael John Murphy

seriously mom jeans are you kidding me? 2021 mom jeans are not your mom’s jeans! High waisted jeans, paired with a bralette (five0six has a fabulous selection) kimono / color wrap, with sandals and layered necklaces are perfect for hanging out by the fire pit or meeting up for drinks at La Bomba off the Bay. Blazers and polos are being used to accessorize outfits instead of formalizing them. An oversized blazer can be cut and made into a structured crop to wear over a floral dress or romper. Blazers with boyfriend jeans and a white t-shirt create endless style possibilities that can take you from day to night. For the classic shopper looking for a timeless yet summery look, pairing a pop of color with a neutral is an effortless way to carry summer with you wherever you go. A casual LBD (little black dress) and hot pink sneakers provides a fun and functional way to jet around the island. Sarah Jordan of Five 0 Six Boutique knows her community and knows how to bring her passion to LBI. “Again - with all these “trends” I aim to have pieces in the shop that are going to stay in your wardrobe for the long run. Not just for a season. I think it’s important to have go to pieces but still have fun with it! I don’t want you at the end of the season saying “well that was a fun trend but I’ll never wear this again,” So again if you are into the bright pops of color/ bold prints, we can style you with maybe a fun top that you can match with a solid pair of pants and you can wear again and again. Or if you want to change up your look we can do a fun pair of sunnies and a new handbag or pair of trendy shoes. Not a huge investment and can work with what you already have to switch up your looks!” Five 0 Six Boutique is located at 506 Long Beach Blvd in Surf City. Stop on in and see all the treasures their boutique has to offer, you will not be disappointed!

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A Love Letter to Summer Presented by Born by the Sea Photography & Little Island Media Written by Sarah Hodgson Photo by Michael John Murphy

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@jonnyskull

The sparkling shoreline of Long Beach Island stretches underfoot, rolling like a red carpet to the base of the reaching, wondrous Atlantic. Each summer, beachgoers plunge into its vast depths, slicing through waves under the eyes of watchful lifeguards.

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While the neighborhoods and commercial main streets of quaint shore towns inevitably shapeshift, obeying the imminent transformation from old to new, the white caps remain the same. Slapping and crashing along the shore in their irregular way. Triggering memories of summers past like the hypnotic snap of a finger.

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@sammy__jo bay-magazine.com 115

LBI’s summer music scene is a vibrant one - crowded with folk artists, rockers and the like. Each night, these genre-jumping crooners truck their gear to local watering holes where patrons, crispy and sun drunk, are primed for dancing.

@fritzrockervinyl 116 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

@saharamoonmusic

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Artists splash their commissioned murals across local businesses in the salty season, writing poignant messages for locals and tourists to find in unlikely places: on restaurant walls, down alleyways, maybe even above the occasional urinal. @bunkerfish 118 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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A mosaic of some of our favorite summer moments: B&W surf sessions, sleeping sunbathers, hand-locked couples walking the dock while the sun drips into the marsh.

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What do you remember of summer when you hear the lap of the bay against the bulkhead, snapping you from your wintry trance?

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Seven Chic S u m m e r

Hairstyles Written by Lisa Simek

Photo by Michael John Murphy Hair Illustrations by Olya Kamieshkova

Summer swelter and poolside lounging entices us all to lazily throw our hair up in a scrunchie and carry on with our days. However, if you are looking for a go-to summer hairstyle that is both functional and fashionable, we’ve got a few that can be replicated at home with minimal effort. From gorgeous braids and buns to loose locks and trendy accessories, these stylish summer hairstyles will take you from sunrise picnics on the beach to sunset cruises in the bay with unbeatable beauty.

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M e r m a i d Wav e s Get the Look: Beachwaver Co. Midnight Rose 3B Waver; $89, Ulta Beauty If your hair is naturally wavy, spritzing in a little Bumble and bumble Surf Spray to mimic the effects of ocean water is the perfect way to scrunch and then embrace the art of the air-dry this summer. If you have straight tresses, worry not! You can easily create this sultry siren look by adding texturizer and throwing in a few curls with this fool proof wave wand (aka the crimper tool of Gen Z).

Side Fishtail Braid Get the Look: Beachwaver Co. Braid Balm; $24, Ulta Beauty Adding a simple side braid to loose hair creates a lovely, feminine touch. This style can work on all hair types but is favored most by those with unruly, textured or thick hair since the tiny grip of the braid weave helps keep hair in place and stop it from slipping out as with a basic braid. The best part is, you don’t have to be an expert braider because when loose and wispy strands are allowed to pop out, the aesthetic of the braid becomes even more whimsical and mermaid-like. Don’t be intimidated, just browse through YouTube for hundreds of video tutorials that will guide you step-by-step through recreating this lovely hairstyle.

Half Up Half Down Twist Get the Look: Lost at Sea hairclip; $18, Anthropologie.com This super simple style works great with curly hair for a bohemian vibe, but looks just as beautiful with straight locks. It is remarkably simple to achieve: All you need to do grab two pieces of hair from each side of the front of your head, twist them away from your face and then pull them back, securing with a few pins or a fancy clip. This effortless look is undeniably striking, and shows off facial features in a demure way.

The Beachy Bun Get the Look: Conair Bun maker available in beige, brown or black colors; $5.99, CVS This look is perfect for days that are too hot for blow-drying, and you don’t have enough time to air dry. Heck, you can even pull off this style with wet hair (although we recommend at least towel drying it first). After washing your hair, simply apply a little gel to damp strands and sweep them back (or up, if you prefer it higher) into a ponytail. Then wrap hair into a perfect bun using a donut bun maker. You can allow hair to dry naturally throughout the day. If you prefer more volume, tease dry hair before pulling it back. With the help of a bun maker, it really is easy to create this elegant style with perfection every time. Don’t forget to pull out a few wisps around your ears for a wind-blown look, and secure any loose pieces with bobby pins. bay-magazine.com 127

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Sleek Scarf + Top Knot Get the Look: Inouitoosh Paris scarves & accessories; starting at $125, Society Beach in Surf City A top knot is great for those hot summer days when you just want your hair off of your neck. Perfect for all hair types—if you have thin hair you can add extra volume by teasing it before pulling it up into the bun, and if you have unruly voluminous hair, this is the perfect way to sweep it up for a clean, classic look. To wrap a scarf around your top knot, center it at the back and twist it at the front. Bring the ends behind your top knot and tie at the back. Remember, a top knot isn’t only stylish, it’s functional too: during heat waves, the higher the hair, the cooler you will stay.

The Perfect Ponytail Get the Look: Cricket Static Free Ponytail Pro Brush, $12.95; Ulta Beauty The perfect ponytail, if done right, will make your hair look thicker, fuller and bursting with bounce. The secret to this volume-filled ponytail? Actually, it’s making two ponytails! To keep your ponytail from falling flat, use a pony brush to create two separate ponytails, one on top of the other. When you go to wrap a strand of hair around the base to hide your hair tie, just cover the second ponytail along with the first and wrap them together—and no one will know the difference. This ‘do does double duty as an easly daytime style and polished nighttime look.

S ta p l e S u m m e r H at Get the Look: Tracy Watts Custom Woven Straw Hat & Saint Laurent Sunglasses, prices start at $210; Society Beach in Surf City Are we showing off a chic new hat, or trying to conceal a bad hair day? No one will question a thing with just the right accessory. Even professional hairstylists have days when frizz, humidity and dealing with one’s hair is simply too much to handle, and that’s where hats come in. Stylish, concealing, and the perfect accomplice to a pair of oversized sunnies, staple summer hat is the perfect hair hack that adds polish and flair to any outfit while also helping to banish a subpar hair day from your life. Simply tuck it all under the hat, et voilà! bay-magazine.com 129

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LOYAL TO THIS ISLAND. SINCE

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FEATURE

Giving Back Never Looked So Good Written by Lisa Simek

Photo by Kyle Gronostajski

A home grown apparel and li fe st yle brand, driven by sur f culture and inspired by a connec tion with allthings-water, is at the fore front of a momentous gras sroot s soc ial move ment penetrating Long Beach Island, the E ast Coast and be yond.

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Long Beach Islanders are credited for pioneering many facets of modern-day maritime culture throughout the region’s fascinating history; but one would be remiss not to acknowledge a new generation of seafaring trailblazers that this island has to offer: the team behind the Jetty brand. Perhaps you’ve noticed a surfer or two wearing a baseball cap dawning the classic Jetty logo or that local at the marina always sporting their trademark tees—heck, you may have even purchased one of those limited-edition, ultra-soft, screen-printed shirts yourself at any of the countless Jetty-sponsored community events on and around LBI.

Since its humble beginnings of a group of friends selling screen-printed clothes out of a garage nearly 20 years ago, this local brand has opened up a storefront, built a state-of-the-art production facility, and has expanded its product line significantly—never losing sight of the winning combination of stylish, quality apparel with sustainability and craftsmanship in mind. Jetty Ink, a subdivision of the company, was founded in order to offer their screen-printing talents to create custom apparel orders for businesses, schools, and events. As far as classic t-shirt iterations are concerned, a Jetty Ink-made tee has turned that basic wardrobe stalwart to a next-level essential item.

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Photo by Kyle Gronostajski

What makes Jetty unique from other apparel brands, however, is that aside from their attention to detail in the design world, the brand pays careful heed towards having an ethical focus and activist stance—principles that often times succumb to the pressures of business growth and scaling the manufacturing process. Jetty is among the select few niche apparel brands to become a Certified B Corporation, a highly respected validation by the global, Stanford Alumni-founded nonprofit, B Lab. This indicates that the company voluntarily meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability of creating value for society—not only for its stakeholders. This accomplishment gives them a seat at the table alongside a handful of other outdoor apparel bigwigs, the likes of iconic Patagonia and Burton, even when other more established, commercial surf brands have no accountability for sustainability commitments or environmental policies. Still, Jetty’s initiatives go above and beyond using eco-conscious ink techniques or developing a patented OYSTEX fabric blend, made out of pulverized oyster shells with recycled polyester. A large part of the success the Jetty brand has experienced is due to its ingenious ability to connect with the community, influence a new generation of cultural consciousness, and break new ground in ecological stewardship—the lifestyle factor. The aftermath of Hurricane Sandy pummeling the region in late 2012 prompted co-founders Jeremy DeFilippis and Cory Higgins, along with partners John Clifford, Paul Clifford and Craig Clifford to come together and create the Jetty Rock Foundation. Metaphorically dropping the first rock, the team spearheaded amassing relief funds and supporting the emergency responders’ actions, with hopes of others harnessing the ripple effect they began. They formally registered the foundation as a 501c3, eager to leverage the success of their brand in generating capital through community events and creative charitable initiatives, with the ability to now channel these funds towards all of their philanthropic undertakings. The first of which was the Unite + Rebuild Superstorm Sandy Relief initiative. Raising hundreds of thousands of dollars from the sale of their Sandy relief effort merchandise, 100% of profits were

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FEATURE

Photo by Ann Coen

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FEATURE

Photo by Kyle Gronostajski

directed towards aid to individuals, businesses, emergency personnel, destruction and debris cleanup. They even documented the storm and subsequent relief efforts in a groundbreaking film, Landfall: The Eyes of Sandy (available for viewing on JettyLife.com, under the Jetty Rock Foundation tab). A similar relief campaign entitled Rising Tides was later launched in 2020, with 100% of profits benefiting all of Jetty’s retail stockists (both local and nationwide) that were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns. The byproduct of their relief efforts undoubtedly has brought the community closer together than it has ever been, and solidified Jetty’s commitment, time and again, to its socioemotional, environmental and economic wellbeing. Over the years, the Jetty team has awarded all of the schools in the area with various student scholarships via their Future Leaders Entrepreneurship Programs and Bridgewalk Fundraising Events. They contribute to supporting the medical expenses of community members battling cancer with fundraisers such as the Artic Outreach, Crabbin’ for a Cause (in partnership with the Tide Table Group) and Coquina Jam, the all-female, team surf competition that benefits women cancer fighters via David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation. From cancer charities to local foods banks to environmental organiza136 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

tions, the Jetty Rock Foundation has donated more than $1.5 million to date. As aficionados of surfing, snowboarding, skating, fishing—sports all deeply rooted in nature, especially in and around the water—it comes as no surprise that the Jetty team are keen environmentalists too. A significant component of their modus operandi is to “protect our oceans and waterways, and support those who have built their lives around them.” The most impressive program to date has been their Oyster Recycling Program, in collaboration with Long Beach Township, Stockton University and Parson’s Mariculture. Recognizing the vital role that oysters play in cleaning and clearing the water in the Barnegat Bay and all other waterways in the region—an adult oyster reportedly can filter up to 50 gallons a day—the alliance designed a program for the collection and recycling of used oysters from dozens of local restaurants and fisheries. Coupled with many other bay steward-based groups, like ReClam the Bay, these initiatives have steadily helped repopulate the bay with oysters and clams, significantly improving its water quality and aquatic habitat. Whereas the discarded oyster shells would have eventually just ended up in a landfill, they are now stored and cured for a period of time, and then repurposed— me-

Photo by Kyle Gronostajski

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

thodically placed back into the bay in order to restore reef habitats for young oysters to anchor onto and proliferate. Thus, reinvigorating the life cycle of the dwindling oyster population. Jetty also financed the documentary, The Oyster Farmers, a film aimed to raise awareness for the lost oyster culture of our region (for more information about the program please go to www.FollowTheShell.com). What was intended to preserve local Baymen’s heritage, has now spawned the renaissance of American oyster culture within the entire Northeast region, as homegrown sustainably harvested oysters are sought after on local menus and displayed as badges of honor. Realizing that food, music and art are the common threads that bring a community together, Jetty has also coordinated with local restaurants and businesses to create The Hop Sauce Festival. This high-energy annual festival located in Downtown Beach Haven is a way to bring the community together to revel in local cuisine, test gourmet hot sauces, enjoy quality craft beer, and listen to live music—all while simultaneously benefiting the Jetty Rock Foundation and it’s causes. As if fundraising events and surf contests weren’t enough, their latest lifestyle venture has led them to form The Jetty Brewing Company. In collaboration with Double Nickel Brewing Company, Jetty created two of its very own craft brews—a classic American pale ale named Session, and a summer pale ale brewed with blood orange and grapefruit entitled Slow No Wake. Lest not forget the ying to a delicious craft beer’s yang—the sparkling wine. Attracted by the sustainable farming methods of Cream Ridge Winery, Jetty also collaborated with the local wine makers to launch Tropical Storm—a mango & passion fruit sparkling wine—perfect for toasting on the beach, boat, or, really, any gathering. All things considered, the Jetty owners, staff and ambassadors seem to have captured what most brands can only dream of: lighting in a bottle. With the conscious consumerism trend only growing by the minute, Jetty’s apparel and lifestyle products, sponsored events and fundraisers are simply all expenditures that consumers feel financially support the collective quest for a healthier world. Whether one’s purchase helps combat global warming, or they enjoy an event in which a portion of the proceeds are donated to charity, the customer feels as though they, too, are a part of the positive impact Jetty is making Photo by Ann Coen 140 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

Photo by Kyle Gronostajski

in the world. And for the creators of Jetty, who live by the mantra, “Draw Your Own Line;” they demonstrate how setting high standards, in both business and in life, can resonate with the people around you, initiating this cultural shift of ethical consumption. The secrets to their success are simple: they love what they do, what they stand for, and the stories they share.

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HUNGER F O U N D AT I O N of Southern Ocean

1 out of 5 children in New Jersey struggles with hunger.

The rates of food insecure children are higher in South Jersey than in all other areas of the state. The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean, with the support of our community, aims to end hunger in Southern Ocean County.

The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, volunteer-only

organization which hosts charitable events to raise awareness about, and funds for, local food pantries as they help thousands of families each year in the Southern Ocean County area.

D O N AT E

VOLUNTEER WWW.HFOSO.ORG

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PA R T N E R

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Photo Credit: LeAnna Theresa Photography

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www.BogathEvents.com (973) 477-1392 Jeanne@BogathEvents.com

2 2 5 J A C K S O N S T R E E T C A P E M AY, N J freelovebridal.com bay-magazine.com 145

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WEDDINGS

Wedding Bliss

Allison

and

Harry

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WEDDINGS

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HOW THEY MET?

Harry and I met on Bumble as I was swiping through the app on NJ Transit back to the city. Harry was living in NJ at the time, but was working in NYC. Despite meeting online, after our first date it was very clear how much we had in common and also the countless times our paths must have crossed! For over four years, Harry and I actually worked in neighboring offices in the financial district in NYC.

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WEDDINGS

HOW HE PROPOSED? Long beach Island is a special place for both of us. Harry took his first steps as a baby on the island and my family and I have spent our summers on the island for as long as I can remember. Additionally, Harry had the opportunity to meet my family for the first time at our home on Long Beach Island. Given our shared history there, it seemed like a natural place for Harry to propose. On an unseasonably warm day at the end of March twenty nineteen, Harry suggested we take a drive down the shore. We decided to go for a walk on the beach near my parents home, where he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him! For the rest of the weekend we were able to see our families in NJ to continue the celebration.

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WEDDINGS | PARTIES | SPECIAL EVENTS

Donut Wall Rental

Great for any Occasion For more info info@bay-mag.com

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437 Route 9 Bayville, NJ 732.269.6699 | 110 E. Main Street Tuckerton NJ 609.294.6699 chris@atlanticcityjewerly.com Estate Buyers

Photo by Jessa Schifilliti

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Wedding Bliss

Jillian

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and

Justin

WEDDINGS

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WEDDINGS

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HOW THEY MET?

We met in high school, and started dating right before college. Our first date was to see “Iron Man”, and each year, for ten years, on our anniversary we’ve gone to see a new Marvel movie at the same theater, and eat at the same Qdoba bay-magazine.com 157

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WEDDINGS

HOW HE PROPOSED? We had been dating for almost a decade before Justin proposed - after going to college apart, moving to NYC together to attend Law school (Justin) and Business school (Jill), Justin finally popped the question while on a walk in their favorite park in the neighborhood, Washington Square. While under the arch, he got down on one knee. A violinist - who just happened to be in the park nearby - began to play “Here Comes the Bride”. The day turned to a night of fun, capped off by a surprise party hosted by the future Officiant

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Kitchen + Pub, hotel adventure park, WEDdings + more Welcome to the ultimate destination for fun with friends and family! Located just a few miles from the coast, this one-of-akind destination offers everything you need to kick back and have some fun! From beautiful weddings and events to our laidback Kitchen + Pub, thrilling Adventure Park and Arcade come explore everything The Mainland has to offer.

THEMAINLANDNJ.COM | @THEMAINLAND

MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021 Ann 160 CoenBAY Photography

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Hotel, Dining, Weddings & More Hotel LBI offers the charm of a summer home paired with world class amenities. Relax in your well-appointed room, enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset on the rooftop, or escape for a day of fun in the sun on our majestic island.

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Ann Coen Photography

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LONG BEACH ISLAND’S HOME DESIGN MAGAZINE

OPEN HOUSE I N T E R I O R

E X T E R I O R

D E S I G N

Open House Magazine is the top resource for consumers who want to tap into design and architecture communities in the Long Beach Island and surrounding area. Advertising | Submissions | General Inquires gary@bay-mag.com

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WEDDINGS

Photo by Off Beet Productions

TRENDING WITH TEXTURE Written by Katie Hood, Reynolds Floral Market

As a floral designer, we get requests for many different types of bouquets. Some people love the look of a classic bouquet made of all one type of flower, while others prefer an organic presentation, with lots of movement throughout. Currently, texture seems to be the trend. There are many ways of achieving texture in a bouquet. One way is by adding in textural elements such as pods, plumes, or succulents. They offer a natural feel to pop against the soft romantic blooms. Another way is by layering your blooms, allowing for some to be seen deep within the bouquet while other delicate flowers dance above the arrangement. Finally, having a lush presence of greenery will create tons of texture throughout the bouquet. A variety of greenery highlights each unique type of foliage. Seeded eucalyptus adds dimension with seed pods, soft trailing plumosa fern adds a gentle touch, and olive foliage allows for a linear presence throughout the display. Requesting texture allows for designers to get creative and create a one of a kind masterpiece of blooms for your special day. Photo by Amanda Magee Photography

Photo by Elizabeth Lloyd Photography Photo by Erin Photo

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MODERN LOVE

WEDDINGS

STYLED SHOOT

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WEDDINGS

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WEDDINGS

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Brides

CALLING ALL

Wedding Bliss Expo is a new brand in the world of exquisite and luxurious weddings. The Wedding Bliss Expo show is for brides with high attention to detail and interests in the finest design-led products and services. Our stunning centrally-located venue of Hotel LBI will be transformed into a wedding wonderland to delight both couples and the industry alike as attendees are introduced to the area’s top creative professionals, industry leaders, planners, entertainers and vendors while enjoying a chance to network, exchange ideas and walk away empowered and inspired.

S AV E T H E DAT E OCTOBER 24, 2021 HOTEL LBI

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L U X U R Y O N T H E W AT E R Private Sunset Cruises on Long Beach Island

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WEDDINGS

Diamond GUIDE

THE Written by Diana Lentini

Photo by Delaney Dobson

When it comes to weddings, trends come and go, and wedding jewelry is no exception. While the beauty of an engagement ring is that there is no right or wrong way to create a stunning, cherished piece, there are certain styles that can be counted on to withstand the test of time. Most notably: the diamond solitaire ring. A solitaire is one where a single gemstone—most often a diamond, in the case of engagement rings—is set into a ring by itself. Simple and elegant, the center diamond is the focal point of attention, meaning that selecting a high-quality diamond is of utmost importance. Though the ring may be simple, choosing the right diamond is not. Enlisting a trained eye and trusted partner in your diamond journey should be step one in the shopping process. “Before selecting your diamond, you need to ensure you’re working with a reputable jeweler,” says Chris Biele, a third-generation jeweler and owner of Atlantic City Jewelry, a family business with locations in Tuckerton and Bayville. “A good jeweler will provide not only access to a selection of a high-quality stones, but also education on what to look for in a diamond, and how to care for your jewelry and protect your investment,” Biele says.

Photo by Jessa Schifilliti Photo by Delaney Dobson

With over thirty years of experience in the jewelry industry, Biele places a high emphasis on client education. “Many buyers are now familiar with the ‘4Cs’ of diamonds: color, clarity, cut and carat. I like to add a fifth: cost,” Biele says. The 4Cs, first introduced by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), represent the factors that characterize a faceted, or flat surfaced, diamond.

COLOR

While naturally-occurring diamonds actually come in a variety of colors, white diamonds are typically used in solitaire settings. It’s important to note that when it comes to diamonds, value increases as color decreases, Biele explains. All diamonds are graded on a scale from D through Z, with D being colorless, and Z diamonds containing easily visible tints of color. However, that’s not to say that everything in between is of no value. Though D to F grade diamonds carry a higher price tag, a G diamond, where imperfections are often impossible to see with the naked eye, can be just as stunning.

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CLARITY

According to the GIA, “Diamond clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes.” An inclusion on a diamond is a small, internal imperfection that was created as the diamond was forming in nature. Similarly, blemishes are imperfections found on the outside of a diamond. The GIA Diamond Clarity scale grades diamonds from Flawless to Included, with any inclusions or blemishes being visible under 10x magnification. “Flawless diamonds are exceptionally rare,” Biele explains. “Depending on your budget, and what’s most important to you, I would recommend between a Very Slightly Included (VS1) and Slightly Included (SI1). Both may include imperfections that can be seen under strong magnification, but depending on your color and cut, an SI1 may allow you to stretch your budget for the same look,” Biele says.

CUT

Oftentimes, shoppers will often confuse diamond cut with shape, Biele says. Diamonds are cut into many different shapes, like round, princess, oval, pear, and cushion, to name a few, but the term cut refers to how well a diamond’s facets interact with light. Specifically, a cut will look at a diamond’s brightness, or the white light reflected from it; fire, or the rainbow-colored effect it produces; and scintillation, or sparkle. “To me, the cut is the most significant factor,” Biele says. The GIA grades diamond cuts on a five-point scale from excellent to poor.

CARAT

A carat is simply a measure of weight for diamonds and other gemstones. Over the past year, as weddings

have been pared down due to COVID restrictions, many couples have been opting for higher carat diamonds as they reprioritize budget dollars. Generally speaking, the higher the carat, the higher the price, but you shouldn’t sacrifice cut, clarity and color just for the sake of having a larger stone, Biele advises.

COST

Not an official factor of the 4Cs, cost is Biele’s fifth factor that he advises his clients to take into account. “Your jeweler should be able to help you select the best quality stone that fits your budget and your preferences,” Biele says. At Atlantic City Jewelry, Biele and his team take it one step further by educating their clients about the importance of having your engagement ring—or any other valuable piece of jewelry—appraised. “An accurate appraisal is important for insurance reasons. Appraisals are often inflated, and there is a common misconception that the appraisal value is the amount an insurance company would be willing to cover for a replacement ring if yours was to be damaged. This is not always the case, and can leave the customer paying higher insurance premiums with no real reassurance,” Biele explains. At Atlantic City Jewelry, you’ll find fair, honest and accurate appraisals meant to protect your investment. Selecting a center stone for a solitaire ring, or any other piece of jewelry, is a job best completed with the help of a professional willing to take the time to educate their buyers. “Before the jewelry, I am just a person who has my clients’ best interests in mind. It’s my life,” Biele says. Visit Atlantic City Jewelry at 437 Atlantic City Boulevard in Bayville, or 110 East Main Street in Tuckerton, or online at atlanticcityjewelry.com.

Photo by Melanie Cassie Photography

Photo by Idalia Photography

Photo by Ashley Mac Photography

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A CL ASSIC mix of S H O R E F O O D OYSTER BAR & RESTAURANT

Serving Lunch and Dinner Featuring Sharrott Wine

bistro14lbi.com 830 North Bay Ave Beach Haven | 609.492.6100 176 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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Boat Up Social, Marina, Outdoor Beer Garden, Boat fuel, Rentals + More The Boatyard is a gathering place to come together for casual food and drink, meet up with your family and friends, play games, and enjoy a day on the bay. We also offer boat rentals, marina slips & storage, fuel for boats & personal watercraft for crabbing and fishing on the bay.

THEBOATYARDNJ.COM | @THEBOATYARDNJ

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N E W YO R K C I T Y R E S TA U R A N T AT T H E J E R S E Y S H O R E

THE ORIGINAL

O P E N D A I LY 2 4 T H & L O N G B E A C H B LV D , S U R F C I T Y R E S E R VAT I O N S R E C O M M E N D E D 609.494.7001

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feed your mind

Recipes and photos by Susan Von Brachel and Robin Chase www.robinandsue.com

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FEED YOUR MIND

4 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS

Grilled Romaine Caesar

4 romaine hearts, cut in half olive oil DIRECTIONS

Preheat grill to medium high heat. Brush romaine hearts with olive oil and place on hot grill. Grill romaine hearts until lightly browned on each side, turning every minute or two until done.

Caesar Dressing INGREDIENTS 5 anchovy filets 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tsp. black pepper ¼ cup lemon juice 2 T. red wine vinegar 1 T. Dijon mustard ½ cup olive oil ½ cup grated parmesan cheese DIRECTIONS In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients up to the olive oil and puree until emulsified. Drizzle dressing over grilled romaine lettuce and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. 180 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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FEED YOUR MIND

Oysters with Blueberry Mignonette 4 -6 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS 1 cup blueberries 2 small shallots, minced ¼ cup white wine vinegar ¼ cup rice wine vinegar ¼ tsp. Black pepper 1-3 dozen oysters

DIRECTIONS Mix vinegars together and add shallots. Using a food processor, puree the blueberries and pepper. Add to vinegar mix and place in fridge to chill for an hour. Place on top oysters and enjoy!

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Fresh Mozzarella | Superior Quality Produce | Organics | Grocery

ALWAYS FRESH Sandwiches made to order | Deli Salads | Salsa | Guacamole

Family owned Since 1994

Online ordering with curbside pick-up available | WWW.anchor-produce.myshopify.com 21st Street & Blvd. Surf City | 609-494-7097 | Open 7 Days a Week 7am-9pm - in season 184 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

SERVING LBI'S FAVORITE COFFEE

SINCE 2004

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FEED YOUR MIND

Bourbon with Charred Rosemary 2 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS 5 oz bourbon ½ oz Rosemary Simple Syrup (Boil 2 rosemary sprigs in 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar until it thickens.) ½ oz Fig Simple Syrup (Same recipe as above, but instead add 8 fresh figs cut into quarters, until it thickens.) Dash of bitters Charred Rosemary Sprigs (Place fresh rosemary on hot grill for a 2 minutes or until it starts to blacken.)

DIRECTIONS Simple syrups can be made ahead of time and chilled. Add ice, combine the bourbon, simple syrups, and bitters in a cocktail shaker and stir. Pour into a rocks glass with a few ice cubes and garnish with charred rosemary.

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The perfect day on Long Beach Island consists of a memorable day at the beach followed by sharing a great meal with family and friends as the sun sets over the bay. In Feed Your Mind: Long Beach Island’s Cookbook, seafood-lovers will dive into more than 45 original, delicious and savory dishes that offer all the right ingredients for fabulous dining with an ocean (or bay) view. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Hunger Foundation of Southern Oceanto help feed our neighbors.

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Get your Copy Today! REYNOLDS GARDEN SHOP • SPOTTED WHALE LITTLE BUNGALOW • HOW TO LIVE LAVISH • ARTIFACTS • GIFTED WILDFLOWERS • BLUE CLAW SEAFOOD TOWN& COUNTY KITCHEN • GOOD LIFE H O T E L L B I • M A I N L A N D • B AY AV E P L A N T C O M PA N Y FA R I A S O N C E N T R E • T W I G N E S T & B L O O M • F O U R C H E T T E AT L B I

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FEED YOUR MIND

Grilled Pear and Brie Crostini with Honey 4-6 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS Baguette, thinly sliced Brie cheese, sliced 2 Pears, halved and sliced Arugula Honey DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes or until goldern brown. Remove and allow to cool. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium high heat. Lightly spray pear slices with canola oil and grill on each side until soft. Add arugula onto each baguette, top with grilled pears and brie and drizzle with honey.

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FEED YOUR MIND

Grilled Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS 2 tsp. kosher salt 2 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper 4 filets mignons, each about 1 ¾ inches thick Canola oil spray Good blue cheese such as Roquefort or Stilton DIRECTIONS Preheat the grill to high heat. Carefully spray the grill grates with canola oil. Mix the salt and black pepper in a bowl and rub onto both sides of each steak and place them on the grill. Cook the steaks 5 to 6 minutes per side. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Top each steak with a slice of blue cheese and serve.

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Fresh Eats and Great Seats! BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER INDOOR & OUTDOOR DINING ORDER CONTACTLESS TAKEOUT ONLINE

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OPEN DAILY IN SURF CITY

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FEED YOUR MIND

Flourless Chocolate Cake with Raspberries 6-8 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS 8 large eggs, cold 1 lb. dark, semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped 2 sticks unsalted butter, cut into 16 pieces Raspberries Powdered sugar optional DIRECTIONS Place oven rack to the lower-middle position and preheat the oven to 325°F. Line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper or waxed paper and grease the sides of the pan very well. Wrap the outside of the pan with 2 sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and set it in a large roasting pan to fit the springform. Bring a tea kettle or pot of water to boil. In a stand mixer using the whisk attachment, beat the eggs at high speed until the volume doubles about 5 minutes.

Fold a third of the eggs into the chocolate mixture using a rubber spatula until only a few streaks of egg are shown. Fold in half of the remaining egg foam, and then the last half until well mixed. Place batter into the springform pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Place the roasting pan on the oven rack and gently pour in enough boiling water to come about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake until the cake has risen slightly, the edges are just beginning to set, a thin crust has formed on the surface, and an instant-read thermometer inserted halfway into the center reads 140° F, 22-25 minutes. Remove the springform pan from the water bath and set on a wire rack; cool to room temperature. Cover and place in fridge until cool. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, invert the cake onto a plate, peel off the parchment paper and top with powdered sugar and raspberries.

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Plan your next visit with us!

LA Colombe Coffee & Baked Goods 1920 Long Beach Blvd Ship Bottom Inside Beach barn Boutique! themermaidroom_lbi

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FINE DINING O P E N E V E RY D AY AT 5 P M THE SAND BAR O P E N D A I LY AT 11 : 3 0 A M OCEANFRONT HOTEL 3 0 E N G L E S I D E AV E B E A C H H AV E N , N J 800-762-2214 W W W. E N G L E S I D E . C O M

COUNTRY CORNER FARM MARKET BEST PIE’S ON LBI

275 W 9TH STREET SHIP BOTTOM, NEW JERSEY 609 494 0667

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Queen of Confections Written by Sarah Hodgson

Photos by Michael John Murphy

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If you’ve ever had one of Melissa Ludwick’s drool-worthy, homemade, hand-crimped pop tarts, you’ve likely been ruined for all other store brand counterparts. The queen of confections (also known as Sweet Melissa) has mastered the flaky, jelly filled pocket pastry to such an extent that this heavenly product catapulted her into the local spotlight. In the short time since beginning her professional baking career in 2018, her name has become a sweet staple in the LBI food and beverage industry.

childhood, it was a natural choice,” said Ludwick.

Believe it or not, Ludwick didn’t pursue professional baking until three years ago. After a car accident left her with permanent injuries and years of intensive treatment, Ludwick reluctantly left her career as a middle school science and language arts teacher. While the decision to retire was a hard one, the transition from educator to pastry chef was a no-brainer.

Babka, walnut roll cake and an authentic linzer torte recipe from her grandmother are among the Czechoslovakian delicacies Ludwick has generously shared with customers through her Sweet Melissa Goodness brand. While many of her goods are inspired by her family’s Eastern European roots, Ludwick’s menu is constantly in flux.

“Once my teaching career ended, I longed to have focus, structure and a purpose in my life. Being my own boss was something that I had always dreamed of and since baking was a creative outlet and hobby since

“I like to bake the types of things I enjoy, although I’m really not much of a sweet tooth,” said the self-taught chef. “I am also really inspired by details and making things beautiful.”

Ludwick was raised in rural Florence, New Jersey where she spent most of her childhood baking with her family. In fact, many of Ludwick’s treats are recipes passed down from generation to generation. “I come from a line of talented and skilled bakers and draw inspiration from my ancestors, particularly my Czechoslovakian-born grandmother,” said Ludwick.

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Her treats certainly taste as good as they look. From giant, colorful sprinkle cookies and gooey s’mores brownies, to delicate french macarons and nutella brioche knots, each item in the baker’s heavenly repertoire is a delicious hit. Though a majority of her signature sweets have no doubt decimated countless diets, multiplied cheat days and made “cookies for breakfast” an all-too-frequent ritual, Ludwick equally priotorizes health-conscious treats. The artisan caters to dietary restrictions without compromising on taste. Her vegan blueberry cheesecake and gluten free, vegan, refined sugar-free “yogi bars” (now known as goodness bars), taste just as sinful as her salted caramel oatmeal cookie sammys. Since launching the Sweet Melissa Goodness brand, Ludwick’s pastries have found success on the shelves of Long Beach Island artisanal markets and cafes. Establishing a brick and mortar bakery might seem like the obvious move for a baker like Ludwick, but physical retailers face unique hurdles in seasonal communities: staffing, remaining profitable in the off-season, inventory management. Aware of these pitfalls, Ludwick was content to stay the wholesale route. Until... “When I started out, I aligned myself with retailers who would purchase my product in a wholesale capacity. I truly never wanted a storefront bakery, however shortly after acquiring my first kitchen, an opportunity to run my own bakery café presented itself,” said Ludwick. In 2019, she set up her first, physical retail shop in Beach Haven beside a surf boutique. In a tidy, 202 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

fresh little space, Ludwick churned out delicious baked goods, craft coffee beverages and breakfast sandwiches from “The Goodness Cafe.” All while continuing to juggle her wholesale clients.

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“Owning and operating my own retail food establishment gave me invaluable knowledge, visibility that helped grow my brand and insight on the direction I wanted to take the business. However, the café was just another stepping stone along the path,” said Ludwick.

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The next stepping stone? A mainland-based baking facility. The jersey-bred artisan is moving her operation from Beach Haven to a newly built location just over the bridge from LBI. A project she’s envisioned since the start of her career as Sweet Melissa Goodness. “This facility will be a ghost kitchen in the sense that it will not be a storefront that customers can visit daily. As always though, my products and desserts will continue to be available on LBI at select markets, coffee shops and restaurants as well as at farmer’s markets and various pop-ups throughout the year.” Her website will be the proverbial storefront for her business, from which she will continue to carry out custom orders and events as well as grow wholesale clientele. “From the inception of Sweet Melissa Goodness, I have envisioned an online bakery, with a goal to be more than a neighborhood bake shop,” said Ludwick. Ultimately, her objective is to break out of the LBI bubble and become a nationally recognized brand. To expand her digital platform and reach a larger, year round audience while maintaining her sparkling reputation for high quality, from-scratch, boutique sweets. With big plans on the horizon, the Jersey-bred baker is determined to better herself each day. “While I understand that every business has its competitors, my mindset has always been that my biggest competition is myself. I continually challenge my abilities, am constantly looking to improve my skills, and create products that are unique.” Ludwick’s recipe for success? Quality products, great customer service and passion. You can follow Ludwick’s expansion project on social media @sweetmelissagoodness or visit her website sweetmelissagoodness.com

FROM CUSTOM

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1103 Long Beach Blvd Surf City, NJ 08008 609 • 361 • 0050

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The Best Italian Food on the Jersey Shore

Deli , Caterer & Specialty Grocery Store Come Visit and See our Fresh Look! 1905 Long Beach Blvd Surf City 609.361.2500 www.themariositalianmarket.com

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Italian Delicacies Written by Carolyn Mijal

Photo by Michael John Murphy

The smell hits you first before your eyes can even start to process the bounty of Italian delicacies and home made sweet and savory delights. Mario’s Italian Market has been a Surf City staple for over 25 years. As your mouth starts to water and your taste buds tingle in anticipation the question you ask yourself is “what am I going to eat first?” Heavenly smells of meatballs and arancini (Italian rice balls) tease you as you discover the olive bar, the freshly made pasta and specialty items directly from the old country. Mario’s has a deep history filled with family, friendship and food and for John Musto, carrying on the legacy of Mario’s is deeply personal. Mario’s was started by the Aversa family in 1996 by Mario Aversa Sr. and his wife Phyllis with the help of their two sons Mario Jr. and Pete. The Aversa family felt a devastating loss when Mario Sr. and Pete passed away less than a year apart from one another. Mario Jr. and his wife Dawn took over and forged ahead while grieving their deeply personal losses. For a decade Mario Jr. and Dawn kept the family business thriving, when the unimaginable happened, the family knew they could count on a long time family friend. 206 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

During the summer of 2019 John Musto took off from working at his job in Florida and headed to Surf City for some must needed R & R. At the time Mario Jr. had asked John if he would assist with helping him run the deli, this was around the 4th of July for what was supposed to be a two-week stay. By the end of September 2019 John was still at Mario’s. John quickly felt right at home on the island. Taking in all of the sites, treasures and food that LBI has to offer he experienced first hand what makes LBI magical. John was able to learn the Aversa family recipes first hand, recipes that no one outside the family had been taught, let alone written down. The summer of 2019 was filled laughter and fun and as John was about to return home tragedy struck the Aversa family. At the young age of 46 years old, Mario Jr. suffered a fatal heart attack and passed away. The legacy of Mario’s was uncertain, however the strong bonds of friendship prevailed and Mario’s Legacy was able to thrive. John explained “Dawn said their daughters would love if someone they knew took on the business, so I packed up my things and moved up here.” The combination of his time spent on the island that summer, as well as the strong family bonds helped in the continued success of Mario’s. John is a seasoned chef who is no stranger to the food industry.

“My father owned a restaurant and pizzeria in Long Branch NJ” John said “when I was in 7th grade after school and on holidays I was helping out all the time. One time I said Mom ‘I’m taking off Saturdays’; I wanted to hang out with my friends.” During this time John was learning his families recipes. John’s parents sold their business 41 years ago and moved to Florida and opened up a new place. The Musto and Aversa families have worked together the years, John’s transition was a natural fit. John remembered fondly the first time he met the Aversa family. “The first year they were in Surf City, they closed for the winter and came down to Florida. Mario and Peter both got jobs at the market where I worked in Fort Lauderdale.” Summer nights, work shifts, and food quickly turned into over 20 years of friendship. As the new proprietor John implicitly understood the bond that Mario’s has with the community, he also knew the importance of quality Italian dishes and how they simply must be shared. John’s roots hail from Sicilia and Naples; two very distinct regions in Italy with their own famous flavors and dishes. Part of the Italian-American experience is learning how to cook at home. The tradition of family recipes passed down through the generations. For John his passion shines through when he has the ability to create new dishes. He finds inspiration every day and looks for new and creative way to spice up classic favorites. Inspired by his father and grandparents, John’s dishes, which he has brought to Mario’s truly are one of a kind and have to be tried. When he is in the kitchen cooking his creativity flows and new dishes are truly an experience. Italian comfort food that hugs you from the inside out; you must try the meatballs, their meatball sandwich is out of this world. In keeping with the Mario’s tradition John was also able to implement some new changes to the deli. “I changed it drastically,” John, said “I opened it all up, it used to be closed off and separated now it’s one store with over 200 items.” The items from Italy transport you and make you feel like you walked into the local grocery in Rome and are picking up a few things for dinner. Now offering grab-and-go options, a full-scale bakery and deli Mario’s has it all. The passion and love for the community keep Mario’s thriving. “The people in LBI are the nicest people I have ever met in my life,” John said “even the people who come just for the summer. My goal is to find out what they want and give it to them, making people happy through food.” In addition to Mario’s famous meatballs, their sandwiches are the perfect way to have a little taste of Italy with you when you are on the beach. John has also curated a list of his “Must Try” menu items: long stemmed artichokes, eggplant rollatini, sautéed broccoli rabe and homemade roast beef. Stop on in for a taste of Italy and traditional Italian hospitality. bay-magazine.com 207

Craft Beer Barrel Aged Cocktails

New American Food

Local Farms

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L I G H T H O U S E Brunch Saturday and Sunday Happy Hour Daily Oysters Rehearsal Dinners Showers Private Parties Open Daily Year Round

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L U N C H | D I N N E R | B R U N C H H A P P Y

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4TH ST, BARNEGAT LIGHT 1302 Long Beach Blvd, Ship Bottom New Jersey 08008 (609) 494-8848 arlingtonlbi.com 208 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

NEW JERSEY 08006 609.494.2100 DAYMARKLBI.COM

Photo by Micheal John Murphy

FEED YOUR MIND

Born and raised in Forked River, the brothers were employed at restaurants their entire lives—working their way from the bottom up—which allowed them to learn precisely how every aspect of the kitchen and restaurant business synergistically operates. Although their careers in hospitality began decades earlier in the Philadelphia metro-area, Brian and Paul established themselves as forces to be reckoned with on this island 20 years ago with the collaborative debut of The Plantation and, later, Daddy O— both the most buzzworthy restaurants on LBI at the time of their unveiling—among the first restaurants that the brothers had the experience of launching. But it was not until after Superstorm Sandy hit that the brothers were able to purchase a little building in Ship Bottom called The Bayberry Inn with the intent of opening a restaurant of their own—The Arlington.

THE ISLAND’S MOST BELOVED

Restaurants Written by Lisa Simek

Childhood summers for Brian and Paul Sabarese weren’t always spent on the beaches of LBI. Most of the time, they weren’t even spent on the Jersey Shore, or in the United States for that matter. With their paternal grandparents originating from Italy, and their mother’s parents still living in Germany, the young brothers were more often than not learning the ways of their European heritage: cooking with their grandparents in Germany, tending to the gardens and animals, and partaking in culinary traditions such as wild mushroom foraging in the Black Forest near the border of France. And when they weren’t traveling throughout Europe absorbing all of that culinary knowledge traditionally passed down from one generation to the next, they fished up and down the East Coast of the USA with their dad—from as far north as New England down south to the likes of Cuba—and it was that connection to food, where it came from and how it brought people together, that was hardwired into their DNA year after year. Cooking and eating together has always remained an irreplaceable pillar of the Sabarese family philosophy; their mantra of understanding food, its history and cultural significance, and how to truly appreciate and share that story with others is precisely why these restauranteurs have been so wildly successful on Long Beach Island.

A gastropub known for its handcrafted, barrel-aged cocktails and impressive selection of unique craft beers (with draft selections of dozens of local IPAs to the more traditional European pilsners that purists delight in), this casual cool restaurant brings farm-totable coastal with an impressive menu highlighting dishes of both land and sea. At The Arlington, an austere gray façade engulfs an interior comprised of vintage red brick and wood beam-lined walls— between the floor to ceiling fireplace and the 360-degree custom concrete bar—the atmosphere is almost reminiscent of a trendy speakeasy, but at a charming ski lodge, that happens to be located on the beach (cue the quirky golden blowfish wallpaper). It all just works. The concept the brothers came up with was simple: focus on quality ingredients and innovate them, offer a modern take on the classic American menu, source local ingredients wherever possible, and really overdeliver in the craft cocktail department. Carnivores are often delighted with dishes including the milk-fed veal chops or organic ½ chicken, house smoked pork belly, or seared duck breast with mushroom bread pudding and foie gras-duck jus. Pescatarians delight in their infamous happy hour “Buck a Shuck” $1 local oysters (among other delectable raw bar options), along with items akin to citrus cured fluke adorned with orange fennel pollen and bay-magazine.com 209

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radish, local monkfish and chickpeas with a kale chorizo vinaigrette, or the quintessential LBI staple: pan seared Viking Village scallops, bejeweled with smoked onion soubise. Did we mention that they handmake their own pasta? There are also vegetarian options whose preparation makes grilled beats and lentils sound—dare we say—thrilling. When the brothers yearned, yet again, to try their hands at another novel concept, they took their vision to the north end of the island—the former Rick’s American Café—and opened Daymark. Just steps away from the Barnegat Lighthouse and equipped with a private banquet hall for parties (although it is most popular for hosting weddings) on the top floor, this restaurant is both the antithesis of, yet remarkably similar to, their first. The menu at Daymark is centered more around elevating the local sea fare as opposed to the careful curation of meats that the Arlington boasts, although there is still a healthy option for both. The interior is bright, upbeat and modern. It has a nautical-industrial vibe that is instantly warmed by the distressed white wood wall paneling, anchored at the center by bar made of a colorful spectrum of bluetoned stacked wood planks, wooden bench seating, nautical light fixtures hanging from boat knots, and other elements that offer the illusion of dining inside of a vessel of some sort. Not to mention the plethora of natural light beaming in from a sea of windows, yielding to spectacular views of the fishing docks from almost any seat in the house. What else could one ask for when looking for a great dining experience on LBI? The cocktails. Just as delightful as at its sister eatery, The Arlington, Daymark has its own share of spot-hitting adult beverages. From the cult-classic rum runners to their barrel-aged Manhattans and their tequila-aperol Lolitas, the inventive cocktail selections were designed to pair perfectly with menu favorites including their Lump Crab Cakes, Oyster Po’ Boys or a good old fashioned Smokey Fishermen’s Stew, Clams Bucatini, King Crab legs, the list goes on. But worry not for the meat-eaters in your life, as there are also options for a melt in your mouth beef tenderloin, tamarind pork chop and a variety of gourmet fowl options, skillfully prepared with just the right amount of joie de vivre. The partnership thrives with Paul managing the front of house at both establishments and Brian being behind the scenes, running the dayto-day kitchen operations. Brian’s wife, Cortney, also runs the door as gatekeeper of all reservations at both restaurants. All in all, the two brothers and partners are known to wear many hats within all facets of the business, and one thing is for certain: revolutionizing the food and beverage menu season after season is certainly a joint venture. Even when faced with one of the most challenging seasons circumstantially to date, the brothers persevered due to their ingenuity and ability to adapt to the obstacles. When restaurant operations were limited last season, the brothers started Arlington Market Ordering—giving patrons the opportunity to order fresh produce, meat and dairy, even bottled versions of their favorite cocktails and draught beers— utilizing their wholesale access to fresh grocery items in order to assist the community. It’s the little things the brothers have added with intention that keeps customers coming back: they were the first restaurant on the island to sell local Forty North oysters before it was actually a thing, they started barrel aging their Manhattans and bottling their infamous Palomas much to the excitement of consumers; heck, they even started

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Photos by Ann Coen

making their own novelty cocktail ice cubes to further enhance the drinking experience of anything from sweet treats to bold bourbon bevvies. It was indoctrinated into Brian and Paul that hospitality brings people together and builds community. Food and drink are the reasons why people gather, celebrate, and in order to ensure that the next generation doesn’t forget about our farmers, our fishermen, or the art of cooking, Brian notes, he enjoys spreading that message of understanding food, where it comes from, and why we should appreciate it through this art of cooking. If one browses through the Instagram feeds of The Arlington (@ arlingtonlbi) or Daymark (@daymarklbi), it is apparent that the sourcing of fresh ingredients from local farms, the well-executed infusion of various culture’s cuisines, and the joy of cooking are all emulated through every single one of the highlighted dishes from either establishment day after day. The heart and soul go beyond cooking and beyond the technical skills developed in the culinary classroom, but rather through this certain style of cooking, with history, art, and life experience. It was the time in the countryside traveling throughout Europe, summer after summer that had the Sabareses bear witness to cooking with soul. It is this immersion that gave them the opportunity to begin to understand the history of their heritages, the importance of their indigenous ingredients and the reasons for their processes and seasonings. It was this experience that helped them develop a certain cultural depth that allows for cooking to have real meaning, and precisely why this summer, they will be debuting with their third Long Beach Island restaurant: La Riva. An homage to the Italian half of their heritage, La Riva (literally translated to “The Shore”) will transport diners to Italy by serving authentic, top notch, Neapolitan-style, Italian fare prepared the traditional way. From the imported wood-fired pizza oven to the hand-made pasta dishes, house made mozzarella, imported prosciutto and cheeses, the Negronis, the Italian beer and wines—all of them will be an experience like no other, once again elevating the notion of “grabbing a pizza” on the island. With La Riva, they will be bringing new-age Italian cuisine to the shores of LBI.

Although the Sabarese brothers may not be a household name, their restaurants surely are. Brian, Paul and their staff and crew are dedicated to providing customers with a unique, dynamic and diverse-like-no-other food experience in our region. Make this the summer to visit one (if not all) of their esteemed establishments on Long Beach Island. bay-magazine.com 211

m.t.burton gallery & 19th St. Clay Studio 1819 N. Long Beach Blvd., Surf City

mtburtongallery@gmail.com

609-494-0006

Fine Art, Pottery, Jewelry and Antiques “Barnegat Lighthouse”, ice bucket by Matt Burton

@mtburtongallery @19thst.potter 212 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

@mtburtongallery etsy.com/store/19thStreetPotter

water colors pottery

photography paintings

LBI Artists Open Studio Tour

A free, self-guided tour of local artist’s studios and galleries. Meet regional artists at select venues on Long Beach Island. Visit LBIartists.com for more information.

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DID YOU KNOW?

THE RIGHT TOOLS Q&A with Matt Burton

Photo by Blakelee Harmon

When one thinks of artists tools, a brush, camera or chisel may come to mind. The artist uses these tools to help manipulate their medium to achieve a certain goal, which could be among other things, visual stimulus, communicate a message or record an event. Through the ages these goals have changed contextually and tend to reflect an artists’ current environment and feelings. Modern technology and tools opens up an incredibly complex and vast amount of options for todays artists never seen before. These fast moving technological achievements in conjunction with heightened social awareness and acceptance have provided fertile ground for the artist to explore. Since the start of the 4th Industrial Revolution there has been a rise in new tools such as 3-D printers, smart sensory devices, wireless technology, multi-level customer interaction and virtual reality. The growth in smart technology has been exponential to the point where it seems to move faster than the average person can absorb. Artists tend to gravitate to this new and exciting trend willing to explore and experiment. Using new smart phone applications, quick response codes and programming has seen a dramatic shift in art observation and interaction and todays consumer puts a lot of value in the “experience” based market. The timing for this new observation experience could not be better. Harvey Cedars and New York City based artist, Blakelee Harmon, is one such artist who has embraced the use of new smart technology. She is an abstract painter who combines dance performance and smart technology to create a viewer submersible experience. Matt Burton: Blakelee, it seems to me the traditional idea of an artist or what an artist does has changed quite a bit. How would you describe what you do? Tell me about your process. Blakelee Harmon: I am an immersive media art creator. My work involves blending original, large scale oil paintings with orchestrated, psychoactive content. I am a mover. My subject matter begins in the body before any permanence is established. Drawing on the inevitable influences that structure and shape our mental human experience, I paint, with each painting standing for an individual cause. Life’s experiences and passions recur as themes within collections of work: Love, Despair, “Nature”, Culture, Post-human Feminism, and Betrayal. Once a piece is created, the thematic process is augmented and displayed over my paintings, creating an immersive reality for the viewer. Largescale canvases reflect the materiality of mistakes and work in collaboration with new concepts to show the effort and complexities of human consciousness. Consequently, art and life as a whole will become fluid and balanced, not forced to either be an object or a subject but a vessel within the energies among us equally. MB: You are a professional dancer and describe yourself as a mover. As I look at your canvases I see the kinetic gestures which capture the essence of movement - please explain the connection of dance and your paintings. bay-magazine.com 215

BH: As a professional dancer it is your responsibility to embody the concept given to you with radical clarity. This type of communication and ability does not leave your essence once a piece is over or a rehearsal is done. A dancer does two very important things, first they willingly give their own agency away in order to take on what they are conveying. There is an inevitable sexualization of the body due to the norms of our society which makes this specific step steep in the oppression of one’s physicality. Secondly, dancers speak for as long as they are moving with the knowledge moment is gone when they are done. There is no permanence in the language of movement. Dancing was a rigorous passion for me, it still is, but I needed a more tangible reflection of the points I make when I create. I began to realize just how personal my movement truly was to the way I processed, lived, and grew in my own life. Now movement is my base, my outline, my practice, my workshopping that evokes the patterns, crossways, and overall shape of my paintings. I use choreography maps, various improv journal clips, and written documentation of the movement as the framework of my canvas. I rely on my bodies guidance to shape my paint. My smallest canvases are 5’ x 6’ because I have to involve my entire body. Physical research is equal to the finished piece, one does not exist without the other. MB: You are one of the first artists I’ve met that really uses smart technology as a medium or tool in creating ones art. Or at least- this idea of a better connection with the viewer. I find it to be very fascinating and curious to see how this evolves. Smart technology really breaks the traditional barrier of the art and viewer. It’s no longer step back and observe, which is how we were told growing up, the experience is much deeper and involved. How and why do you use smart technology to enhance the viewing experience? BH: Layering augmented reality [AR] content onto my paintings allows me to deliver a fully immersive experience to my audience. The contrast between traditional oil paint and augmented content specific to the observer is what I want to do. To emphasize this I think of my 216 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

AR as a deeper level that is needed to fully conceptualize how the piece eventually arrived to where it is now. For example, my piece, “Murmur” was augmented to showcase a specific section of movement that was the direct inspiration for the finished work. If you follow the Blippar instructions shown in this article you will be able to virtually watch a persistent augmented recording of the piece being made. This sequence is the cycle of my work. Without technology a massive amount of my creative expression would be held under wraps. It is crucial that I am able to expose as much of my process as possible to the viewer. I am thankful for it all from social platforms like Instagram constantly promoting art from everyone to everyone all the way to the new emerging art platforms such as NFT’s. There is not time to waste questioning technology because the opportunities lead to a more universal understanding of human behavior. MB: NFT’s (Non-fungible token- a unique one-of-a-kind digital art that can not be exchanged for anything of equal value. A piece of code in blockchain) are the new buzz in the art community. How do you see NFT’s changing the art world? BH: Media has always had to fight for change. Our history shows that new

forms of media challenge views of the subject at hand. So when NFT’s came along and challenged the traditional ways the art world operated, it’s not surprising that some in the industry pushed back on it. The concept of NFT is blurry to most because it exists within the blurry world of cryptocurrency, blockchain and platforms used to mint and sell digital art. Within my personal discussions about NFT, the main concern is the threat of conformity to the physical art world and what this means for physical art. If I was asked about NFT’s pre Covid my response would probably be similar to the people who are opposed to this new way of viewing art. However you want to look at it, NFT’s give artists their agency back after a year of turmoil and helplessness. They provide individual choice, interaction, and control over your own professional and artistic practice. The biggest plus, in my opinion, are the renewable royalties that are given to the original artists. You sell your work, they sell your work, your work appreciates in value and is re-sold years after that, etc… and you are compensated each time your work achieves a new valuation. This is what we deserve. I think it will take time for the mainstream viewer to accept this new way of observing art. It is understandable when introduced to something new and different for people to be apprehensive. To answer your question on how NFT’s will change the art world, I would say they provide a new model for a modern, digital sense of community within art culture, which frankly I feel like has been missing. The wide variety and segmentation of art listed in this market allow for niche genres to find their way to collectors who covet their oddity, rarity and scarcity. And the smart contracts on blockchain ties them together in authenticity. I believe that this movement is in its infancy, I do not think this is simply a quick trend or phase. Seemingly every day there are brand new ideas that unlock new use cases for creators and traders

alike. It feels like we are entering the present and near-term future of an emerging new sector, and you can tell there is a rejuvenated sense of creative excitement in the air.

DID YOU KNOW?

MB: So with all these new ways to view art what is expected to interact with your art? BH: It will help the viewer who is ready to be engulfed with content and is equally enthusiastic to engage themselves in order to better understand the paintings and context of my work. I have branded my work, For The Observer, to show case my desire to connect with the viewer. My art (For The Observer) encourages viewers to question their identity, their role, their participation, and their observations that correlate with the work in front of them. I test their tolerance of forced biological system alterations that women and planet are too familiar with. With that said, I believe that my work also challenges rational thought in a world where the negative is equal to the positive. Branching out beyond the physical form requires the objectification of color and concept to move the audience into a post-human mind frame. I make art with the idea of proactively questioning what I am saying with each piece and the various ways it could be interpreted. The pages of this article have been set up for the reader to sample Blakelee’s AR art experience. Follow these steps: 1. Download the Blippar app onto your smart phone and open the app. 2. Using the app scan the image of Blakelee’s painting in this article. 3. Once image is scanned the image will be overlaid with augmented content viewed through the smart phone. To view Blakelee Harmon’s paintings in person stop by the m.t.burton gallery or visit the artists website: fortheobserver.com bay-magazine.com 217

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DID YOU KNOW?

Rise to Stardom

Written by Sarah Hodgson

Sahara Moon a Local Songstress Lives Up to her Stellar Namesake

Photos by Michael John Murphy

With curly, buoyant locks and an effortlessly chic wardrobe of flare pants, velvet blazers and seriously enviable hats, Jersey-bred singer songwriter Sahara Moon is the spitting image of a modern folk queen. And, much to our luck, she reigns here in the quaint pine barrens, salt marshlands and bustling beach towns of South Jersey. At the age of 14, the Jersey native was already writing and performing original music, “While I was a Junior in high school, I was pursuing any opportunity to perform. The thrill of performing my own material for an audience really captured me.” Now, with a debut album under her belt and various singles in her proverbial quiver, Moon’s path to distinction is a promising one. She’s played with national acts and frequented big-time venues, notably the famed Keswick Theater in Pennsylvania where she opened for the Grammy-winning Robert Cray Band. “It was truly a monumental moment for me. There were over nine hundred people sitting in the audience that night,” said Moon. While Moon is a natural in the big city spotlight, her journey began here, in South Jersey where she was born and raised. “I grew up in a musical household where the guitar was always being played or my sister, Zinnia, was always singing. My Dad introduced us to the acoustic guitar at a young age and we often found ourselves jamming together in our music room.” Awash in a genuine (almost mystical) glamor, Moon’s is a magnetic presence.

On stage, she achieves an easy balance of confidence and modesty. Her spindly, ringclad fingers strum and pick the guitar in hypnotic precision while she fills the space around her with buttery melodies. The genre she resides in is a self-prescribed Americana with jazz influence: a complex hybrid of blues, folk, country and pop. And what could accompany this cocktail of genres but an equally unique voice to match? Her sultry vocals are a sophisticated blend of husky yet smooth, breathy yet potent. One can’t help but think of Brandi Carlile, Norah Jones and KT Tunstall when they hear Moon run through her poignant repertoire of covers and originals. Last year, a pandemic-ridden world was certainly deprived of the mystifying act that is Sahara Moon. But while 2020 may have brought concerts and live performances to an abrupt halt, Moon found space in the vacuum to breathe and blossom. “By allowing myself to refocus my energy, I have been able to have an open mind for the creative process,” said Moon. Setting touring aspirations aside, she spent the greater part of last year honing in on her craft and developing a virtual performing experience for digital listeners. When her original single Worthy was released in November of 2020, Moon put her creative prowess to work and launched a ticketed virtual event that premiered on Veeps, a livestream concert platform for musicians. “It was a very different experience since the reception of my last release,” which was held in March just before the pandemic bay-magazine.com 219

fine art for the coastal home consulting | sales | commissions gallery: 609.848.9702 inquiries: 617.875.5826

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2312 Long Beach Blvd. Surf City - LBI - NJ solacestudiolbi@gmail.com

grills

patio furniture |

candles

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baskets

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home decor

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connect with fans and have a conversation. That is what mattered the most.” The virtual shift in the music industry has led many artists to build stronger relationships with their fans. The raw and unfiltered nature of at-home, virtual concerts allow audience members to experience their favorite musicians on a more intimate level, like never before. What was once a distant connection between singer and fan is now a fierce bond. Moon relishes how this shift has helped shape her craft, “I have grown over the past year in ways that define my artistry even more. I focus on the kind of performance I want to have and what kind of experience I want to leave people with. Stylistically, I am always changing, but I have a passion for honesty within the lyrics of my songs.”

struck. “I was grateful for an incredible team of individuals who assisted me with putting on the best virtual release party possible. I feel that live stream virtual events are going to be something that fans will cherish forever.” From an urge to contribute, create and share during this era of uncertainty, Moon’s “Live From The Living Room” show was born. The songstress’s home was a cozy dwelling by day, concert venue by night. “There was such an incredible connection with the listeners who would tune in every single week. I feel these live shows were a saving grace for many, including myself,” said Moon. Virtual shows have been a rewarding, healing and challenging adjustment for Moon. “I was constantly trying new things to enhance the experience for listeners on the other end. I spent hours researching new ways to reconfigure all of my equipment and redecorate my backdrops,” said Moon. “Although it was challenging at times, I was able to

Though she now claims a deep appreciation for digital performances, Moon can’t help but look forward to a summer and fall of live shows. Her upcoming tour schedule is brimming with events: a performance alongside BlackBerry Smoke, Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown, and Nick Perri & The Underground Thieves at the Orange County Fair Speedway; a show with Steve Earle at the Scranton Circle Drive-In Theater; a slot at the Manahawkin Lake Concert Series; a performance with Chris Barron of the Spin Doctors at the Long Beach Island Foundation of Arts and Sciences; and a show with Jeffrey Gaines & Lucy Kaplansky at The Keswick Theatre. “I look forward to hitting the road and having the opportunity to be a part of something larger than myself that will be a new, freshened experience for listeners,” said Moon. You can follow Sahara Moon on social media @saharamoonmusic. For tickets and show dates, visit www.saharamoonmusic.com. bay-magazine.com 221

DON'T LET SUMMER PASS YOU BY

LONG BEACH ISLAND REGION, NJ

WELCOMES YOU BY LAND & SEA Find what you need to plan your getaway with our virtual visitor center, up to date and filled with what you need to know to travel with confidence! Want more than online? Call or stop by our fully staffed Welcome Center located at the Gateway to Long Beach Island.

EAT DRINK &

BUY LBI

REGION

LOCAL EXPERTS For over a century, the LBI Region has provided the tastes, experiences, one-of-a-kind products, and local knowledge to create that perfect place. No one knows the LBI Region better than our local businesses. This summer, extend your stay – eat, drink & buy in the LBI Region.

SHOP LOCAL EXPERTS

visitLBIregion.com Funded in part by a grant from the NJ Dept. of State, Division of Travel & Tourism

222Southern Ocean BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021 County

Chamber of Commerce - 265 W. 9th Street, Ship Bottom, NJ - 607.494.7211

DID YOU KNOW?

Explore LBI

beach culture

It’s a Fishing Tradition

Written by Lori Pepenella, CDME

Spend Summer in Style with Top Picks from the LBI Region Less restrictions, longer days, and warm nights provide even more inspiration when looking for reasons to head to New Jersey’s Coast in 2021. Celebrating a renewed spirit, Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce members welcome travelers to take part in their 107th summer sharing memories and creating new experiences. There is no better way to explore the unique beach culture that makes the Long Beach Island Region a favorite destination for so many.

Land & Sea Passport

Get a dose of our beach culture from live performances, outdoor concerts, art studios and galleries there is an artisan spirit that is easy to find. Purchase that unique gift, take a class, or enjoy local talent at various showtimes and places.

Don’t miss your chance to learn or expand your skills with Surf Fishing or out on the water. With local experts powering the bait and tackle shops, its all about the blues, striped bass and other fantastic fish. Use time this season to bring home another reason to love the great outdoors.

Chowder Fest

Jersey Fresh Farmer’s Markets & Specialty Gourmet Shops

whether you pick up the pocket-sized publication, scan the QR code or get the digital copy do not miss this annual publication! This explore guide provides tide charts, moon phases, pet travel info and restroom locations – its center feature is the official LBI Passport with Giant Clam Trail log, Native plants, birds, shells and fish scavenger check off lists. Take the learning on road and connect in new ways with this special place. Pick it up at Passport sites including LBI Foundation, NJ Maritime Museum, LBI Historical, ALO and Southern Ocean County Chamber Visitor Center

Summer tables are filled with vibrant colors and flavorful tastes. Outdoor markets appear weekdays across the region for that spontaneous shopping stop. Looking for something specific? Maybe to order in advance, get delivery service or drop in for a daily special? From organic produce, fresh baked treats, catch of the day or fresh flowers there are options only a short walk or drive away.

LBI is the Chowder Capital of New Jersey, celebrate our celebrity shellfish this fall with new ways to support and recognize our local restaurants. Stay tuned for more details at Chowderfest.com bay-magazine.com 223

TEE Time Written by Lisa Simek Photos by Randy Townsend

Miniature Golf is the feel-good, device-free, suitable-for-all-ages, perfect outdoor activity we’ve all been searching for. If your idea of fun is spending quality time with family and friends al fresco on a warm summer afternoon, then you’re on the right island. Long Beach Island boasts many options for spending tech-free time with loved ones and participating in some good, old-fashioned family fun. But whether you decide to play paddle ball on the beach or fish off a dock in the bay, nothing screams quintessential summer vacation quite like the time-honored pastime of miniature golf. For many, part of the charm of visiting their favorite mini golf course is the nostalgia factor— remembering your first hole-in-one, that time you accidentally clocked your sibling with the putter, or perhaps looking forward to winning that treat at the last hole. For many families, especially during the COVID pandemic, miniature golf was the socially distanced reprieve that dreams were made of: a safe, affordable outdoor activity that remained open amidst a summer of lockdown restrictions. Although the game of miniature golf has been around for more than 100 years, it continues to be a wildly popular and ever-relevant social activity that can be played and enjoyed by all age groups. LBI visitors are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to putt around at a variety of mini golf courses: from the classic, retro style courses of yesteryear to an array of modern fully-immersive environments that transport the player into a whole new world. With a total of 12 mini golf courses at 9 different locations on the island, the options are limitless. As our families had the pleasure of experiencing last summer, we suggest you give every single course a try before naming your all-star favorite LBI mini golf course. It does not matter if you are a casual player or if you take the game seriously (who doesn’t love a little friendly competition), our little barrier island boasts a ton of beautiful courses that are way above par. Below we’ve rounded up the ultimate summer mini golf bucket list, detailing where to go when you want to add a few rounds to your next family fun night... Game on! 224 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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JENN’S LINKS AT LBI [IG @jenslinks]— 501 Broadway, Barnegat Light: This is the newest, 36-hole course which is divided into two separate 18-hole courses. The “High Tide” course has 18-holes and takes players over the rushing waterfalls and cliffs, with a higher elevation that makes for some pretty breathtaking views of the Barnegat Bay (tip: the scenery gets even more gorgeous around sunset). The “Low Tide” course also offers 18-holes, but it goes on a journey below, golfing through caves and caverns underneath the misting waterfalls. Players will simultaneously have a fun history lesson of LBI, especially Viking Village, as they walk through each course and reach through the replicas and landmark descriptions. As you play, you feel as though you are immersed in what life on the island was like back then, from the grand Victorian hotels on the south end to the quaint little fishing village inhabited by Nordic settlers in the north. SANDBAR GOLF [FB @SandbarGolfLBI]— 1011 Long Beach Blvd, Surf City: While there may be other courses on the island with more ornate designs or mechanical contraptions, true mini golf afficionados appreciate the simplicity of a beautifully classic landscape and the well-maintained greens of this course. Players have fun putting along the various water features and even sneak by a beautiful replica of the Barnegat Lighthouse. Getting a hole-in-one on #18 wins a free game card. Located in the heart of Surf City, the convenience to walk to a variety of great restaurants after working up an appetite is certainly an added bonus. ISLAND GOLF [IG @surfcityislandgolf]— 603 Long Beach Blvd, Surf City: Picture a pirate ship becoming stranded on a jungle island, and this little 18-hole course on the Boulevard immersing you in all of the sights and sounds around you. Players are greeted by a giant elephant, scattered between the tiki totem poles they will find lifelike animals including a panther, gorillas, giraffes—even a shark lurking in the water—along with a massive tarantula sitting on a web as one of the obstacles. There are plenty of moving obstacles and pretty lights at night. Conveniently located a stone’s throw away from a string of Surf City’s best ice cream shops. bay-magazine.com 225

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BILL BURR’S FLAMINGO GOLF— Long Beach Blvd & W 5th St in Ship Bottom: This 18-hole miniature golf course is one of the oldest (if not, the oldest) on the island, impeccably maintained and operating in its original retro state— the ultimate time capsule of LBI from 1960. It is a bright, colorful course right smack dab in the middle of the island, with the perfect balance of obstacles that are challenging, and others that make it possible to achieve at least a few holes-in-one. Popular for its charm to the youngsters and nostalgia to the expereinced, iconic trophy-bestowing tournaments and–you guessed it—lots o’ flamingoes, upholding with tradition since its opening, everyone is a winner when they walk away with a free lollipop at the end of their game. THE SAND TRAP [IG@thesandtraplbi]— 102 W 23rd St. in Ship Bottom: A gazebo and a lighthouse grace this 18-hole course, with one of the highlights being a waterfall that races over golfers’ heads in a see-through enclosure. This charming gem has been around since 1975 and also boasts quite the challenging course that is delightfully landscaped with beautiful flowers, shrubs and greenery. You can catch a glimpse of Ol’ Barney with their 15-foot-high replica lighthouse, and join in on a tournament every Tuesday. HARTLAND GOLF AND ARCADE [IG @hartlandgolf]— 28th St & Long Beach Blvd in Ship Bottom: At Hartland, patrons have the choice to either relive some arcade classics like skeeball and pinball indoors, or tee off outdoors at their playfully challenging course. Requiring a healthy portion of skill and a dash of luck, each of its 18 holes offers a fair chance at a hole-inone. Kids marvel at the Atomic Ball Launcher while even the most experienced putters are humbled by the infamous little 11th hole, which they cheekily have named “The Hardest MiniGolf Hole on The Planet.” After 18 holes, players get a shot at a bonus last hole for a chance to win a prize on the Lucky Wheel.

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MR. TEES FAMILY ARCADE AND MINI GOLF [IG @mrteeslbi]— 18 W 18th St, North Beach Haven: This fun little 36-hole course is tucked away from the crowds. Sandwiched between residential homes on a side street (bay side) off the boulevard just south of Spray Beach, one would never find it unless you were looking for it. It is the first location of Mr. Tees, which was founded in 1972 after a couple named Hank and Bette purchased, what was then named, Dell’s Penny Arcade. Nostalgia rules here, with the small-town, family-owned vibe, a fun course full of pirates, maritime amusements, and classic arcade games at the same location. ADVENTURE GOLF AT THUNDERING SURF [IG @thunderingsurfwaterpark]— 300 Taylor Ave, Beach Haven: Formerly referred to as Settler’s Mill Adventure Golf and next door to all of the top attractions in Beach Haven, Adventure Golf offers two uniquely and equally challenging 18-hole courses nestled in various elevations of mature landscaping, complete with smugglers’ caves, waterfalls, and antique obstacles designed with the old-world beauty of island life in mind. Patrons play through the immersive scenery of caves hidden under rushing waterfalls, cross over an architecturally exciting suspended swinging bridge and read many facts and legends of the shipwrecks, pirates and ghosts that are a part of Long Beach Island’s historic folklore. Bonus: Take a walk right next door to the water park and cool off after an intense game in the sun. MR. TEES 36 HOLE MINI GOLF [IG @mrteeslbi]— 101 S Bay Ave at Engleside Ave, Beach Haven: The second location of the iconic Mr. Tee’s, this course is divided into two 18-hole courses. The first of which is where you can find the beautiful Victorian Gardens with lovely waterfalls and landscaping. The second of which is the “TEE”ki Island course which includes a pirate adventure, different colored carpeting and challenging holes. This location also has an arcade onsite for indoor entertainment, classic games and fun prizes.

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The

BOOK

L O N G B E A C H I S L A N D ’ S P R E M I E R R E A L E S TAT E M A G A Z I N E

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO REACH POTENTIAL HOME BUYERS FOR HOMES ON LONG BEACH ISLAND, THEN THE BOOK LONG BEACH ISLAND’S PREMIER REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE IS A MUST.

228 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

The Book, Long Beach Island’s Premier Real Estate Magazine, is the most comprehensive source of properties for sale on the Long Beach Island. Created by LBI Publishing Inc. who Publishes the premier leisure and lifestyle publications on Long Beach Island, bay magazine and LBI’s Home Design Magazine OPEN HOUSE MAGAZINE. Next

i s s u e p u b l i c at i o n dat e au g u s t ad deadline

June 22, 2021

1, 2021

F O R I N Q U I R I E S C O N TA C T G A R Y H E N D E R S O N AT G A R Y @ B AY - M A G . C O M

P H O T O B Y M I C H A E L S PA R K P H O T O G R A P H Y

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The Magic

DID YOU KNOW?

Written by Carolyn Mijal

Photo by Michael John Murphy

The involuntary smile slowly comes across your face as you walk up the steps, under the stripped awning of Haymarket Hobbies & Toys. As you ascend the stairs into the shop you wonder to yourself… did I just walk into a life size toy box? The shop is filled from wall to wall, floor to ceiling with every type of toy, hobby kit, craft, and board game imaginable. For the smallest of children to the eternal child at heart, the magic of the toy store fills the air around you as you wander through the aisles. Your eyes are drawn to classic toys from childhood and current favorites of little ones today. For the last 45 years Haymarket Hobbies & Toys has been centrally located in Ship Bottom and throughout their years of operation they have seen families through many generations of toy enthusiasts. The ability to share a special moment between parents and children is passed down throughout the years, but how did it all start? In the 1960’s and early 1970’s there was the Tagg-Along Shop run by Bill and Ella Tag on 28th Street where Faria’s Children’s Boutique is today. When Ella’s husband passed away in 1976, Susan and John Hay decided to purchase their inventory; in 1978 they set up shop on site where The Haymarket is today. Originally The Haymarket looked very different. The original building was an ice cream parlor in the 1920’s. As Haymarket’s inventory grew, so did the need for more space. Rather than picking up shop the Hays decided to rebuild the shop to accommodate their ever growing collection and create the wondrous toy paradise that you see today. Their business has grown and moved with the ever-changing times. Susan recalled “back when we started you’d have to use a rotary phone and then wait eight days for a catalog mailed from California to review potential inventory.” Today cell phones and social media have allowed The Haymarket to expand their business in more ways than one. In 1987 it wasn’t all that common on the Island to knock down an entire building, the Hays tried to save the original building but it was not meant to be, so they rebuilt on the same site. The Haymarket as it stands today has been there since the renovation. Susan says that they have met their third generation of bay-magazine.com 231

Since 1976

s Kites Craft Do lls Toy

Free Gift Wrapping OPEN ALL YEAR 22nd & Long Beach Blvd. Ship Bottom, NJ 609-494-7228 www.haymarketlbi.com 232 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

els Rockets od B

lo Kitty H el Pl a

G a me s P uzz Lego l i les ob m y

Stop in and discover why our customers enjoy shopping at The Island Shop for 76 years. You will feel inspired by our carefully chosen collections for today’s modern woman, all sensibly priced! We love our customers and LBI!! 4205 Long Beach Blvd Brant Beach NJ 609.494.2120 IslandShoplbi.com

children. Children who shopped at the store as children are now coming back and shopping with their grandchildren, and the reason is clear why families keep coming back. The Haymarket is unlike any toy store you have ever seen; they literally cater to everyone. While mega toy stores and the toy section at local big box retailers have what is marketed as the popular toy of the season, Haymarket focuses on quality and variety. Each and every child who walks through the doors has the gift of possibility to discover their passion, discover a new beloved toy, and share in an experience with a parent or grandparent. Haymarket’s ability to connect with a family throughout the generations has made it a staple for the local community as well as visitors from far and wide. Throughout the years, Susan and John have seen “the toy” of the decade: in the 70’s it was Madam Alexander Dolls; the 80’s paved the way for the elusive Rubik’s cube; Beanie Babies, Power Rangers and the oh so coveted Tickle Me Elmo became the “it toy” of the 90’s; the early 2000’s brought Pokémon cards and all things virtual. Throughout all these trends, The Haymarket has remained true to the staples and true to their belief that no two toys and no two children are alike. You can even ask photographer Michael John Murphy and he will tell you just how special The Haymarket is to the community. When I had the honor of sitting down with Susan on a lovely Sunday afternoon, surrounded by more toys than I had ever seen in my life, Susan pulled out several photo albums and graciously showed me The Haymarket and the many lives that have been impacted by them throughout the years. Michael Murphy used to come in to the shop as a child and now he is photographing it for bay magazine. Talk about full circle. The heartbeat of the store is the community in which it serves; it has never been about the latest toy or the sale for the sake of a sale. It has always been about what the community needs and how to be a better neighbor through the magic of toys. From 1977 to 1985 Haymarket held a model-making contest; with seven different categories and four separate age groups all members of the community were able to participate and have fun. Each and every item that fills the walls and shelves of The Haymarket from their main shop to their storage rooms is there with a specific person in mind. The family who is spending a week in LBI and finds themselves caught on a rainy day can simply pop into The Haymarket to find a board game for the kids and adults. Families

who forgot water toys can stop by to find items to enjoy a sunny day at the beach. Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles can share and pass along toys and hobbies from decades gone by and learn about the newest toys that are popular today. Thomas the Tank, LEGOS™, Playmobil™, stuffed animals, radio controlled cares, trains, derby cars for the Boy Scout races, Hello Kitty™, wood models, Britain soldiers, Calico Critters, paints, kites, modeling tools, board games, outdoor toys… the list literally is endless and if you can imagine it, it is in the store. In addition to the ample variety, the service to the community has always been the number one priority for The Haymarket. Toys and hobbies are so much more than a way to pass time, they are the keys to unlocking creativity and socialization skills. A child’s imagination is one of the most essential developments in their young lives. When Covid-19 Pandemic put restrictions on socializations (for the safety of the community) the Hays rose to the challenge. While many stores and businesses were not able to be opened or have people in the shops, owners had to get creative. “I would send people pictures of the items,” Susan said “I mailed them items, delivered them to a few houses and curbside pick up was also available. During the pandemic we made private appointments with our clients. They could come in safely and shop and after they left I would clean.” The adaptability of the Hays is what makes their store the most magical place on the island. “When I’m sitting in my office, I love to hear their excited little voices” said Susan. “When we were able to re-open after the pandemic for a lot of kids this was their first store after not being able to leave for six months.” The Hays know the magic of toys. The manager’s son, Jared, has spent every Sunday at Haymarket with his mom, April, since he was born. Susan and John’s daughter, Ali, also spent ample amounts of time in the shop growing up. Around Valentine’s Day each year the Hays participate in the Toy Fair at the Javits Center. They also have a team of sales reps who travel the country sourcing the ample variety of toys for the store. They are also members of ASTRA (American Specialty Toy Retailing Association). The Haymarket has a perfect balance of variety, quantity and quality. Specializing in customer service, Haymarket pride comes from serving the community and keeping the magic of childhood alive from the smallest child to the eternal child at heart Haymarket Toys and Hobbies is the place where pure imagination thrives.

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Antique Peddler

4000 LONG BEACH BLVD, BRANT BEACH | 201-988-6976

@LBIANTIQUEPEDDLER 234 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

DID YOU KNOW?

CHIC HAT Emporium

The Mod Hatter Celebrates 30 Years in Business When Tina Berman graduated from college in 1992, her intention was to spend one final summer on Long Beach Island before venturing off to Philly for post-grad pursuits. Little did she know, in those three short months, she’d meet her husband, build two businesses and learn everything there is to learn about hats. Hailing from central Pennsylvania (now residing in Haddonfield), Berman spent most of her teenage summers working on Long Beach Island. During what she thought was her final season at the shore, Berman noticed there was a need for a hat retailer in Beach Haven. There was a cap gap, so to speak. “People were always like ‘Where can I get a beach hat?’ It was just in my head. It wasn’t like I had this passion for hats,” said Berman. She channeled her natural-born en-

Written by Sarah Hodgson

trepreneurial spirit and launched a headwear pushcart cleverly dubbed, “The Mod Hatter” (playing off the fictional Mad Hatter character from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland). At the time, pinch-brimmed, flower-adorned bucket hats popularized by the NBC sitcom “Blossom,” were in high demand. So Berman grabbed her hot glue gun, loaded her cart with plain hats and colorful flowers and let patrons customize their very own chapeaus right there on Schooner’s Wharf in Beach Haven. The business took off. “That was the gimmick. That was how it all started,” said Berman. Though peddling custom headwear and beachy fedoras on a waterfront complex wasn’t the career she’d pictured for herself after obtaining a degree in architectural studies, a young Berman quickly developed a

penchant for the fashion industry. “It took me a while to realize I was using all of the creative, design things I learned in school. Just putting them in a different place,” said Berman. A newfound application for her architecture degree and a passion for fashion weren’t the only things that Berman stumbled upon in the pivotal year of 1992... “I met my now-husband that summer. He had come up with a silly hat, a novelty hat, and he wanted me to sell it. I didn’t really like the hat but I thought he was cute,” laughed Berman. The business proposal (a ball cap with wool dreadlocks glued to the interior) sparked a romance as well as a fledgling enterprise. In the same summer that Berman began bay-magazine.com 235

DID YOU KNOW?

The Mod Hatter, her husband simultaneously built an unrelated novelty hat company, Rasta Imposta, which now leads the humor category in the Halloween and party industry. A corner of Berman’s Beach Haven-boutique is even dedicated to the comical products of Rasta Imposta. Oversized clam hats, upside down ice cream toppers, tye dye squid caps and red white and blue fedoras are a delightful sight to behold in the quaint shop. But The Mod Hatter features more than shellfish shaped head gear. The boutique is an explosion of chic headwear. Floor-to-ceiling shelves are stacked with elegant fascinators, flouncy beach hats, straw fedoras, colorful headpieces, designer visors, gambler hats and ball caps. There is a hat for everyone in the seemingly infinite collection. Berman’s shop features a balanced mix of both luxury and affordable goods. Clients can browse headwear ranging from $5 to $500, yet regardless of price, they all have one thing in common: quality. “Even my budget-friendly styles have to pass my test. I’m super picky,” said Berman. The Mod Hatter owner prioritizes functionality, excellence and style when sourcing for her shop. Carrying top brands is a goal, but ensuring her clients are getting the most bang for their buck is a must. Berman will even go the extra mile to ensure that patrons feel confident in their hat purchases. “I’m very good at helping people find a hat they’re comfort236 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

able in. It’s kind of like wearing your first bra, you have to get comfortable with the concept,” said Berman. With almost 30 years of business under her cap, she has learned to translate her clients’ individual needs into thoughtful, complementary hat recommendations. Personal taste, health requirements, lifestyle and even face shape play a role in Berman’s fitting capabilities. Sun allergy? In the market for a waterproof hat? The hatter and her well-trained staff members are equipped with the knowledge and passion to help you find your perfect fit. Lucky for shoppers, Berman has taken her fashion expertise to a whole new level by incorporating bags, jewelry and shoes into The Mod Hatter brand. “I realized early on that customers who like hats, also like accessories in general,” said Berman. “It just kind of evolved into a full accessories store.” The shop’s inventory of accessories has grown significantly from the sprinkling of purses and flip flops it began with. Indeed, The Mod Hatter now boasts a full-fledged shoe room and racks upon racks of tasteful accessories. 30 years later, Berman’s little pushcart has evolved into a shopper’s paradise. “I didn’t intend to go into retail. It started out as hats,” reflected Berman. “I didn’t go into this because I loved hats, but I ended up falling in love with them.”

OPEN DAILY

THEMODHATTER.COM 609-492-0999 1103 NORTH BAY AVENUE • BEACH HAVEN, NJ

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Virtual Sessions

Sunday, August 1 through Thursday, August 5 10–11am LONG BEACH ISLAND FOUNDATION OF THE ARTS AND SCIENCES 2021 ANNUAL SEASHORE HOUSE TOUR 238 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

Join us for this special event and find out directly from LBIF House Tour architects and builders just how the beautiful homes featured in the House Tour were created. Learn the inspiration and ideas behind the designs, then how the ideas were implemented, what was done, how, and why. The LBIF House Tour will canvas the island from Barnegat Light to Brant Beach. Included are beach and bayfront houses, old and new, modern and traditional. A special question and answer period will allow audience participation.

LBIF Home Show Friday, August 6 11am–3pm

Rain date Saturday, August 7, 11am–3pm

Thank you to our 2021 LBIF Home Show sponsor Woodhaven Lumber & Millwork.

As part of the House Tour, we present our first LBIF Home Show featuring architects, builders, interior designers, decorators, and landscapers who will inspire and help you create, update or re-imagine your special home. Many of these professionals have their work featured in this year’s house tour, from interiors to exteriors and every detail in between! LBIF business partners will share how they partner with each owner to bring their ideas to life. They can offer their own helpful tips, tricks, and traps for designing and beautifying your home. Like the LBIF Festivals, our Home Show will be on the LBIF grounds and inside our Gallery with vendors and businesses exhibiting their specialties. Do you have a Business? If you would like to be an Exhibitor at the Home Show, please contact Melissa Strouse for details, LBIF’s Business coordinator at: mstrouse@lbifoundation.org Check our website for updates about the LBIF House Tour.

LONG BEACH ISLAND FOUNDATION OF THE ARTS+SCIENCES 120 LONG BEACH BOULEVARD LOVELADIES NEW JERSEY 08008 609 494.1241 LBIFOUNDATION.ORG bay-magazine.com 239

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DID YOU KNOW?

THIS MUST BE THE PLACE Written by Carolyn Mijal

As you are gliding down the bay, water slowly slapping against the boat the smell of salt water mixes with the smell of food cooked on flame; the sounds of the guitar and singing from a band becoming louder and louder, the indistinct chatter swelling with the music you quickly realize that this isn’t a typical boat yard… it is The Boat Yard and it is the place to be this summer.

Let’s be real the past year has been one of the wackiest most unconventional years that we have seen in a very long time. As the weather is warming up and the sun is extending its rays for those easy long summer nights, when the sky is kissed magenta and bright orange there is no better way to celebrate family and friends than stopping by The Boat Yard.

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Located at the Causeway Marina patrons can access all the Boat Yard has to offer by car or by boat. There is no better way to end a summer day crabbing on the bay than by pulling up to the marina and stepping off into one of the most unique and fun experience on the island. In the 1960’s the Chapman Family started the Boat Yard out of an ice cream truck for slips and boating rentals at the Causeway Marina. Slowly Barnegat Bay was dotted with blue and yellow crab boats. During the day the bay was filled with activity and bustling with people; as the sun was setting and the blue and yellow boats made their way back to the marine, Barnegat Bay would go to sleep for the night. Essentially the boat yard was very much as its name sake suggests simply a boat yard with a primary focus on daytime boating activities. Chris (the owner) wanted to make it more lively and started thinking of ways to expand on the boat yard’s potential. Inspired by the natural beauty of Barnegat Bay the owners of the Boat Yard knew that they wanted to showcase the natural beauty as well as the potential for a fun and creative space for the community. Ray the manager of the Boat Yard describes it as a place where ideas can run free and the possibilities are endless. Chris, who also owns the Mainland (a classic staple in the area) wanted to create a beer garden; what started off as an idea for outdoor socialization turned into the lively laid back 242 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

environment that it is today. The Boat Yard, as most people know it is built on top of the old parking lot for the Causeway Marina. Ray describes their first year fondly, “our first year open we were out there with spray paint and tape, re-arranging furniture and where things were to see what would work and make it work.” Similarly to switching up where your sofa is at home, Ray and his team are constantly figuring out new ways to keep the environment open, inviting, and fun. Throughout the years there have been various and fun iterations to the site. From the original ice cream truck in the 60s to the Driving Range that was once on site. Ray was kind enough to explain how the range was set up. “There were stalls, typically of a standard driving range. You would pick up a bucket of balls and go to your stall, T up and hit balls into the bay. It was located on the Northwest side of Barnegat Bay close to Bonnet Island The little building that is at the entrance of the property is called the golf house… it is nice to still have that history on site.” For the last ten years Chris has been dedicated to the idea of creating a fun and different environment for the marina. Not only for adults looking to have some chill time, it was important to Chris to make sure that the Boat Yard is a place for everyone: families and friends.

The ability to create an atmosphere where all are welcomed and all are relaxed is not easy, however, Chris and his team were able to accomplish just that and so much more. If you have ever been to North Jersey, there are similar outdoor marina like happenings; yet, the elusive piers in NYC and Hoboken feel “stiff” and quite frankly not worth the perpetual wait. Ray explained the Chris wanted to create a unique and fun environment that did not require a reservation. The only requirement is for people to have a good time and relax. The Boat Yard has had the privilege of having a spacious outdoor space, which has helped them during the different waves of capacity during the pandemic. For the last three years the team at the Boat Yard have been able to see growth and are constantly creating new ways for the space to grow and expand with the focus being on the local clientele. Chris and team plan on enhancing the bay more than just aesthetically. One of their projects is re-clamming the bay to preserver the natural beauty and habitats that live in it. The Boat Yard is a space for locals to relax and for local businesses to thrive. They are partnering with

local business to have pop up shops throughout this summer season. Accessibility, relaxation and classic food favorites embody the feeling of coming home after a long day. When you come to the Boat Yard the only thing you have to think about is the gorgeous sunset over the crystal clear water. There is no waiting or fighting for a spot only good times and good vibes. Currently there are three food truck trailers on site. If seafood is your favorite you must try their fish tacos, there is always a catch of the day special and the seafood is fresh and familiar. If seafood isn’t your favorite fare try the Americana truck, think classic back yard BBQ with a twist there is something for everyone even for the kids at this truck; like hot dogs and hamburgers. Finally no day at the Boat Yard is complete without desert … the perfect way to top off of a summer day with ice cream. All of these individual aspects come together to create this one of a kind experience at the Boat Yard. The people, the music, the views, the food, the water… when it all comes together the electricity in the room is magnetic and you can’t help but have a smile on your face as you create new memories with friends and family.

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LONG BEACH ISLAND’S LEISURE & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Catching Waves...

of Strength LBI Nonprofit Helps Individuals with Disabilities

Experience the Joy of Surfing and Being One with the Sea Written by Lisa Simek

For centuries, humans have attempted to utilize the energy of the sea—but what about the idea of harnessing the power of its healing properties? Aside from the kinetic and thermal energy produced by waves, have you ever stopped and thought about the tremendous bounty of physical and psychological benefits that occur simple by just being near the ocean? Here on Long Beach Island, local thalassophiles (lovers of the sea) know just how transformative all of our surrounding bodies of water—especially the ocean—truly are, as they bear witness to its tiny miracles every day. For Waves of Strength, a local 501c3 organization, the mission of sharing this stoke with others is clear: help as many children and young adults with disabilities as possible to be able to experience the therapeutic magic of the ocean for themselves. And how, one may ask? Why, through the sport of surfing.

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Photo by Randy Townsend

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Photo by AJ Hepp

Going on their third season hosting an adaptive summer surf camp experience for residents and visitors of the Long Beach Island region, Waves of Strength is determined to make this summer’s event, taking place on August 22, 2021, their most successful one yet. Run entirely by volunteers, from LBI’s big-hearted surfers to compassionate community members, with the contributions of generous local business owners and the support of Long Beach Township, the one-day camp is offered free of charge to children and young adults who have any sort of physical or intellectual disability and would like to experience the thrill of riding a wave. The technique used to help individuals with a disability be able to surf is called adaptive surfing. This encompasses all of the different facets of surfing that one can adjust, or adapt, in order to accommodate the special needs of the rider so that they may be able to catch and ride a wave their own way, towards shore. Whether it be by using a modified surfboard that is more accessible and safer for the surfer, or by having a team of volunteer instructors work together, the experience is personalized depending on the individual, and all with the end-goal of having the best of time in the water. 248 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

Fun and safety are certainly a priority for the organization, and Waves of Strength takes every precaution to ensure that participants and volunteers feel secure and confident in the water. Every participant is paired with two or three volunteer surf instructors, who all possess a minimum of 10 years’ experience with surfing and also have the prerequisite of working as trained lifeguards, certified surf instructors, and even professional surfers at some point in their lives. The organization emphasizes that holding their annual event without the commitment of the local surfing community would be impossible; not only does each rider require a minimum of 3 volunteers to assist the session, but it’s the lifelong surfers who are most in tune with the dynamics of the waves. Truly experienced surfers are able to predict exactly how each one of the waves will bend and break, and intuitively know when paddling with their students will result in a safe, quality ride onshore. One of the organization’s board members and captain of the Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol, Randy Townsend, is among the many lifelong surfers who donates their time to volunteer for the event every year. Founder, Robert Simek, adds, “The more water volunteers we have, the more participants with special needs we are able to help. We are so grateful that the surfers in our

community are able to dedicate their time for one day every summer to help accomplish our mission and bring so much happiness to the lives of these families. We hope this enthusiasm for sharing the stoke continues to grow in the coming seasons.” All participants are equipped with life vests, and on-site event medical care is provided by pediatric emergency room physician and Waves of Strength board member, Dr. Anthony R Guariglia, MD, along with his wife, Lara, who works as a local ER nurse. The Beach Haven First Aid Squad has an ambulatory service standing by at the beach entrance in the case of any unforeseen emergencies, and Long Beach Township not only hosts the event, but supplies the organization with a 4WD Gator (beach accessible utility vehicle) that allows for the safe and comfortable transport of individuals who may have difficulty getting from the parking lot, across the beach and towards the ocean where the event tents are set up. Long Beach Township also provides a team of dedicated lifeguards that volunteer their time in order to stand by and keep watch for emergency situation during the entire event. Even last year, when the rest of the country was in a lock down, and those with special needs had many of their essential services cancelled, Waves of Strength event organizers found a way to implement the proper precautions and continue on with the annual surf camp day—much to the excitement and gratitude of the families and parents who were looking forward to this therapeutic outlet for their kids. By applying additional protocols, introducing digital sign ups, hoops dictating social distancing on the beach, spaced out session times and surf lanes, health screenings, masks and proper disinfection of the life jackets, etc. the event of 2020 prospered with the organization’s largest turn out to date. The beach was certainly not short of cheerleaders and supporters, and all-in-all, the atmosphere of the entire day was as exciting and awe-inspiring as ever.

Photos by Jason Bahr

The event typically takes place in August every summer at the handicapped-accessible 68th Street beach in Brant Beach; nailing down the exact date depends on ideal tide positioning as well as optimal wave, wind and weather forecasts. Year after year however, regardless of the weather, it is the participants themselves who beam rays of sunshine on the beach all day. To watch any child overcome adversity is inspiring and uplifting to say the least, but when one witnesses a child, whose parents were told that they would never be able to swim—let alone surf—ride a wave onshore with a great big smile beaming ear to ear? Now that is truly an emotionally magical and transformative feeling that touches the soul way beyond goosebumps and happy tears. Over the bay-magazine.com 249

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past two years, volunteers have assisted children with a wide range of disabilities including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, genetic disorders, vision and hearing impairments, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and more to defy the odds and experience a fun day in the ocean, ripping (safely) through waves. After their session, the new surfers are presented with achievement medals to remind them of their tremendous courage, strength and perseverance in trying something new and learning how to surf. As the organization continues to grow and raise funding, they hope to expand their services to help additional communities of individuals that would also benefit from surf therapy sessions, including but not limited to our wounded warrior and veteran communities, those living under impoverished circumstances who are unable to pay for a surf lesson, and so on. Eventually, being financially capable to run the surf experiences throughout the entire summer and winter seasons (via indoor wave pools) on a regular basis, with full-time instructors and a permanent location would be the ideal dream. The energy anyone receives from the sea always yields a feeling of peace and calm, and this is a deep spiritual connection with nature that Waves of Strength truly believes has positive effects on cognitive and physical development, self-confidence and personal growth, as well as stress relief and socio-emotional wellbeing of all humans. In many areas, surf therapy is offered as a complementary and alternative healthcare treatment whose benefits are backed by science. The sensational wonder of riding a wave, spending a day at the beach and soaking up the sun truly has the power to make the troubles in one’s life seem a little bit easier to tackle after a surf session in the water, and the organization hopes to be able to bring this glimmer of hope—and especially strength—to anyone who aspires to experience it for themselves. All event apparel and accessories are available for purchase through retail partner Society Beach (located on Long Beach Boulevard, at 21st Street, in Surf City), who donates their time and resources on the day of the event, as well as their store space following that day, to sell all of Waves of Strength’s gear on their behalf—receiving nothing in return besides the gratification of contributing their talents towards helping their cause. 250 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

Photos by Randy Townsend

Photo by Randy Townsend

Photo by Jason Bahr

As is true with any nonprofit organization, it is only through the support of the local business community and residents that make all of these events possible at no cost to the families. The Waves of Strength team would like to formally thank all of the sponsors, volunteers, donors, contributors, and township leaders that come together for the sake of helping out fellow neighbors through surf therapy. For more information about getting involved, volunteering, donation and sponsorship opportunities, 2021 event participant registration and FAQs, please log onto the Waves of Strength website, www.wavesofstrength.org, email them via info@wavesofstrength.org, or follow them on IG @wavesofstrength and facebook.com/wavesofstrengthLBI.

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MUSICALS • CONCERTS MUSICALS FOR CHILDREN • COMEDY 201 ENGLESIDE AVENUE, BEACH HAVEN WWW.SURFLIGHT.ORG • 609.492.9477 252 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021

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Thank you to our loyal customers. We are celebrating 50 years in business.

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