Ez holidays color

EXIT ZERO HOLIDAYS 2016 « $4.95

609.884.1300

1001 Lafayette Street, Cape May NJ 08204

Todd H. deSatnick / Broker of Record

www.deSatnickRealEstate.com

FOR SALE!

FOR SALE!

FOR SALE!

213 BEACH AVE., CAPE MAY $1,245,000

27 TAYLOR LN., COLD SPRING/SOUTH OF CANAL $1,300,000

202 READING AVE., CAPE MAY $900,000

FOR SALE!

FOR SALE!

FOR SALE!

1488 WASHINGTON ST., UNIT D, CAPE MAY $479,900

609.898.1600

227 BEACH AVE., UNIT 601, CAPE MAY $469,000

80 MILLMAN LN., VILLAS $699,000

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Property Inspections Maintenance Specialty Contractor Liaison www.DREService.com

Two Distinct Experiences, One Address...

Washington Inn

  

Contemporary Dining Classic Cocktails Renovated Interior Early Dining $27 3-course menu

Dinner, Small Plates Flights of Wine Specialty Oysters Weekend Specials

801 Washington Street, Cape May

(609) 884-5697

LUCKY BONES BACKWATER GRILLE

washingtoninn.com

Your Craft Beer HQ Lunch, dinner & late night

1200 Route 109 south, Cape May (609) 884-BONE (2663)

Inside this Issue notes from the editor 7

38

So lucky to be in the Cape May bubble.

holiday events around town 8 The happenings you need to know about.

your holidays hq 13 Why you cannot miss Congress Hall’s Winter Wonderland.

the ultimate food & drink chart 16 How to eat your way through Cape May!

cape may culture 24 A Cape May Stage tour-de-force, and the masters at East Lynne.

the ocean column 31 The bad news... and the good news.

48

the history column 33 How Cape May has celebrated Christmas.

the totally local shopping guide 38 Forget the mall — holiday gifts galore in town!

the complete cape may christmas 48 Your ultimate guide to the happiest holiday season.

loveable dogs for good people 68 Read ’em and weep... then see if you can help.

the definitive cape may trolley guide 82 From ghosts to holiday lights... it’s all here!

property of the month 88 A turnkey beauty in the heart of the Historic District.

my perfect day 90 Katie Repici, our Operations Manager!

picture of the month 92

By Charles Riter.

68

cover shot by charles riter exit zero

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GO

!

Y A M E P A C L O O C N I D O O OD PUB F

A classic since 1926

ON THE MALL (609) 884-3459 “Best clam chowder and lobster roll in New Jersey.”

- TripAdvisor

Est. 2014 A new Irish classic!

ON THE MALL (609) 770-8559 “Everything we sampled was right on from wings to onion rings.

Exactly what we were looking for!”

- TripAdvisor Check our Facebook pages for live entertainment!

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About us editor/publisher/designer Jack Wright jack@exitzero.us advertising manager Alex Testa alex@exitzero.us operations manager Katie Repici katie@exitzero.us staff artist Mike DeMusz mike@exitzero.us contributing editor Diane Stopyra diane@exitzero.us

Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily

graphic design Jacquelyn Valori jackie@exitzero.us special projects David Matagiese david@exitzero.us creative consultant Victor Grasso historical editor Ben Miller photographers Aleksey Moryakov, Charles Riter, Gabi Urda, Frank Weiss graphic artist Doree Bardes contributing writers Catherine Dugan, Karen Fox, David Gray, Lynn Martenstein, Tom Sims, Susan Tischler, Victoria Zelenak exit zero store manager Sharon Holden

Holiday Gift Card Offer

For Every $50 Purchased Receive an Additional $10 These Make Great Stocking Stuffers!

Offer valid November 25 to December 18, 2016

(609) 884-9119

Published by Exit Zero 109 Sunset Boulevard, Suite D Cape May, NJ 08204 Telephone: (609) 770-8479 Fax: (609) 770-8481 E-mail: info@exitzero.us Websites: exitzero.us / ezstore.us

322 Washington Street Mall, Cape May www.tishasfinedining.com exit zero

store team Erin Fisher, Martha Kesler, Margie McGee, Beth Olivero, Michelle O’Leary, Janet Westcott

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great ingredients make holidays happier.

From daily, chef-made ravioli, long cut pastas and San Marzano Marinara to call ahead festive trays and easy grab-and-go party foods, we’re here to ensure your gathering is the tastiest of the season.

315 OCEAN ST

609.898.8500

CAPEMAYGOURMET.NET

call now to order your holiday trays of tastiness exit zero

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“BEST AMERICAN” and “TOP 25 RESTAUR ANTS IN THE STATE” New Jersey Monthly

3-course Prix Fixe $35 From 5pm-6:15pm

Oceanfront Porch Dining Available Weddings • Rehearsals • Private Parties BEACH AVENUE & HOWARD STREET AT THE

HOTEL MACOMBER

609-884-8811 UNIONPARKDININGROOM.COM

2016 TripAdvisor Reviews...

“A dining experience that was perfect.”

“The service was wonderful, as was the atmosphere. Highly recommended.”

“The food was delicious and the service was superb. Much of the food is locally sourced, and the chef is talented!”

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Notes from the Editor

Charles Riter, whose work has graced the pages of this magazine many times, captured the mall during the holidays. He also shot our cover.

A

t press time, the results of the 2016 presidential election hadn’t yet been decided, which means as I write this, I don’t know who the new commanderin-chief is. (We’ll find out tomorrow.) It’s been a wild few months. And by wild, I mean contentious.

Divisive. Scary. And also amusing if, like myself, you’re a longin-the-t00th journalist drawn to spectacle.

A Scottish newspaper asked me to write about experiencing the election cycle as a Scotsman living in America, and I was forced to reflect on the breadth of heated opinions within my own family. My wife, a typically mellow person, has been down a rabbit hole for the past couple months, consuming every bit of coverage she could get her hands on, yelling at the television during the debates and breaking into impassioned monologues over dinner about the state of the country. We’ve tried to avoid political discussions with some relatives, because they quickly devolve into arguments. It’s been exhausting.

So, I don’t know who has won, or whether our readers are feeling relieved or even more anxious than before. (Please let it be the former.) But what I DO know is this: Whenever tensions are running high and things are looking grim, it’s nice to be in exit zero

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Cape May, where all those clichés you read in resort brochures — about rustling dune grasses and magically calming sunsets — are authentic. It’s hard not to feel at peace here, no matter the drama unfolding elsewhere.

People joke about Cape May being under an invisible bubble, exempt from certain weather patterns. I’d take that one step further. Cape May can feel insulated from the noise of politics, work, everyday life.

This is especially true at holiday time, when the Cape transforms into a winter wonderland. There’s the community parade, the fab festivities at Congress Hall, the abundance of holiday shows and trolley tours and Victorian homes trimmed with lights and woodland garland. Spirits are high, friends are together, and — even after a year of discord — goodwill toward men (and women) becomes de rigueur.

We’ve tried to capture some of that feeling in this issue, especially in our ultimate holiday guide. We hope it brings you some of the warm fuzzies this season is all about — no matter what side of the aisle (or bridge) you happen to inhabit.

Jack Wright Editor/Publisher holidays

2016

holiday events around town November 18-January 1 Cape May’s Holiday Season Get ready for six weeks of special holiday tours and events including Holiday Preview Weekend (November 18-20), the 43rd Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tours (December 3, 10 and 17), plus Lamplighter Christmas Tours, Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides, Emlen Physick Estate Christmas Tours, Holiday Inns Tours, Evening Holiday Lights Trolley Rides, Evening Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides, Santa’s Trolley Rides, and more. Call 609-8845404 or 800-275-4278, or visit capemaymac.org.

November 18, 2016-January 1, 2017 An Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit See holiday traditions through the years on display, complete with a Dickens Village and model trains all beneath the boughs of a giant Christmas tree. At the Carroll Gallery at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape

May, Friday, November 18, 2016 through Sunday, January 1, 2017. The Gallery is open daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas); hours vary. Free admission.

Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information or gallery hours, call 609884-5404 or 800-275-4278.

November 18-20 Holiday Preview Weekend Get a head start on the holiday season!

Santa and his elves have decked out the glorious Emlen Physick Estate with thousands of lights and holiday trimmings.

Enjoy a wide variety of holiday tours and food and wine events to get you into the Christmas spirit. Visit the Estate on Saturday at 7pm as Santa arrives to flip the switch for the festive tree-lighting ceremony. That evening the Estate will be open for free, self-guided tours. For kids, there are Santa’s Trolley Rides and a chance to visit with old St. Nick himself.

Grown-ups will enjoy holiday ghost tales

during Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides. Call 609-884-5404 or 800-2754278 for more information.

November 18 Mad Batter Wine Dinner Savor the flavors of this five-course seasonal menu paired with wine at the Mad Batter restaurant! Limited to 60. $75 per person (tax and gratuity included).

7:30pm. Call 609-884-5404.

November 20 Brunch, Bingo & Lace Grab your best girlfriends and enjoy time away from the holiday to-do list as you play a little bingo, enjoy a fashion show

by Lace Silhouettes/Cotton Company, and win some great prizes at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean Street, all while enjoying a delicious brunch. $25. 9:30am.

Call 609-884-5404.

November 25-December 31 Winter Wonderland at Congress Hall

Happy Holidays

Year-round dining offering vegetarian & gluten-free options. Daily local seafood. Antibiotic-free chicken & beef.

Fresh-grown vegetables & salads. Award-winning wine list. 20 Crafts. Second-generation, family-owned.

www.riostation.com

AMERICAN STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE Grande Center Mall • Routes 9 & 47 • Rio Grande, NJ 08242 • 609.889.2000 • Reservations Suggested

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West Cape May Christmas Parade is a riot of color and community fun — this year’s event is on Saturday, December 3.

Aleksey Moryakov

est. 1980

Cape May’s original farm to table Call for reservations ~ 609.884.5882 104 Jackson Street, Cape May

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holiday events around town Cape May’s magnificent Congress Hotel and its Grand Lawn becomes the setting for a festive fairytale. A 35-foot tree sits in the middle of the lawn, flanked by a tented shopping village arranged around the swimming pool, while the Congress Hall Express train does circuits around the grounds and kids shout with joy as they ride the classic carousel. There are booths selling hot chocolate, elves wandering the grounds dispensing candy canes and four Breakfast with Santa events. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Visit www. caperesorts.com for more information, and also see pages 13-14.

November 25, 26 Holiday Cra�ts Fair This is a must visit for those on your holiday gift lists. Shop for unique hand-made gifts and seasonal decorations. 10am4pm. Cape May Convention Hall on the promenade. Admission is $2. Call MAC at 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 for more information.

December 2 City o� Cape May Tree Lighting You’ve never seen Rotary Park more beautiful — the newly renovated public space will be sparkling with beautiful holiday lighting. Be sure to say hi to Santa (or plead your case). Starts at 7pm.

December 3 West Cape May Christmas Parade More than three hours of family fun and entertainment. Parade start time is 5pm, from West Cape May Fire Hall, proceeding south on Broadway to West Perry and to the Washington Street Mall. Wrap up warm and bring some toasty drinks!

December 3 43rd Christmas Candlelight House Tour This self-guided walking tour, the main attraction of Cape May’s festive holiday season, features homes, inns, hotels and churches decorated for the holidays, plus caroling, strolling musicians and good old-fashioned cheer. Hospitality centers offer warm beverages and traditional treats. Includes admission to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, and An Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. Limited shuttle service.

5:30-8:30pm. Adults $28, children $20 (ages 3-12). Call 609-884-5404 or 800275-4278, or visit capemaymac.org.

December 3 Cra�ts at Christmas Don’t be a last-minute shopper — do some craft shopping, well in advance, at Cape May Convention Hall, on the promenade. The event runs from 9am-4pm.

Call the City of Cape May on 609-8849565, or see discovercapemaynj.com.

December 4-6 A Dickens Christmas Extravaganza Immerse yourself in the storied world of Dickens with lectures and performances offered daily. Included in the Extravaganza is a Dickensian-style feast along with a wine tasting and a holiday tour of Cape May. All-inclusive packages

Oyster Bay STEAKS

SEAFOOD

Serving Dinner from 5PM Happy Hour from 4:00-6:30PM

Please Call for Fall Hours!

CHOCOLATE BAR

106 Jackson Street, Cape May 609-884-5519

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(609) 884-2111 • 615 Lafayette Street, Cape May 10

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Lunch & Dinner daily Cocktails • beer • wine Big Burgers Scrumptious Seafood Fresh Salads Fabulous Flatbreads 20 Beers & 4 wines on tap Live entertainment Fintastic Fish Tanks

142 DECATUR STREET on the WASHINGTON STREET MALL (609) 884-3449 • FINSCAPEMAY.COM exit zero

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holiday events around town are available at participating inns. Some events are available for individual purchase. Call 609-884-5404 or 800-2754278, or visit capemaymac.org.

December 4 Chocolate Lover’s Feast Christmas is coming early for chocolate lovers. The The Blue Rose Inn, enjoy seven plated courses of chocolate desserts and hear how each was created from the chef who prepared it. 1pm. Admission is $40. Call 609-884-5404 or 800-2754278, or visit capemaymac.org.

December 8-9 Annual Hospitality Nights This is a heart-warming experience, and not just because of all the free wine and cheese... although that doesn’t hurt. It’s a real chance to meet the lovely folks who run businesses on the Washington Street Mall, and to remember how wonderful — and important — shopping locally can be.

7-9pm. See washingtonstreetmall.com.

December 9 Mad Batter Wine Dinner Come home for the holidays and enjoy this five-course seasonal menu paired with wine at the Mad Batter restaurant!

Limited to 60. $75 per person (tax and gratuity included). 7:30pm. Call 609884-5404 or 800-275-4278, or visit capemaymac.org.

December 10, 17 43rd Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tour This self-guided walking tour, the main attraction of Cape May’s festive holiday season, features homes, inns, hotels and churches decorated for the holidays, plus caroling, strolling musicians and good old-fashioned cheer. Hospitality centers offer warm beverages and traditional treats. Includes admission to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, and “An Old-fashioned Christmas Exhibit” in the Carroll Gallery. Limited shuttle service.

5:30-8:30pm. Adults $28, children $20

(ages 3-12). Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.

December 10 City o� Cape May Holiday Reception and Cumberland County College Jazz Band and Wind Symphony Concert Get in the spirit of the season with this band, comprising student and community musicians. Convention Hall. 7pm. Call 609-884-9565, or see discovercapemaynj.com.

December 14 The Angelus Chorus Sacred music. Secular music. 60 brilliant voices. Boom. Convention Hall. 7pm.

609-884-9565.

December 16 Roller Skating Begins It’s a Cape May tradition! Adult, teen and toddler times available at Convention Hall, on the promenade. Call 609-8849565. See discovercapemaynj.com.

Sweet Holiday Gifts Honey & Hive

is now open at Central Square, Linwood

135 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May [ BEHIND EXIT ZERO STORE ] 609-425-6434 CAPEMAYHONEYFARM . COM FIND US ON FACEBOOK exit zero

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Your Holidays HQ

Congress Hall transforms into a Winter Wonderland this holiday season. Explore quirky gifts from dozens of artists and vendors in the shopping village. Sip on a cup of hot cocoa by the pool bar and enjoy treats as you make your way over to Santa’s workshop, where elves are preparing Christmas gifts, with crafts and activities for kids to enjoy. Then hop aboard the Congress Hall Express, which travels around Congress Hall’s Grand Lawn, aka Cape May’s North Pole, or catch a ride on the old-fashioned carousel. Come see why this has become one of the east coast’s must-see holiday experiences...

December 2 Tree Lighting and Holiday Concert Don’t miss the moment when Congress Hall’s tree lights up the night, and visit the ballroom for the annual holiday concert, featuring Congress Hall Festival Choir. Guests are asked to bring canned goods for the Cape May Food Closet, a toy for Toys for Tots, or a suggested donation of $10. The first concert begins at 5:30pm. The second concert, at 8pm, will lead out on to the lawn for the moment when the crowd joins in unison to count down to the lighting of the largest Christmas tree in Cape May. November 26, December 3, 10, 17 Breakfast with Santa Santa Claus will be joining you for breakfast every weekend, from exit zero

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8am to 11am. Breakfast with Santa includes a full buffet, adults $18.95 and children $9.95, ages 4-12. Children aged 3 and under are free of charge. For reservations call 609-884-8422.

November 27, December 4, 11, 18 Gingerbread Decorating with Mrs Claus Turn ordinary gingerbread houses into culinary works of art. Make your own sweet creations in Congress Hall’s Grand Ballroom with the help of some of Santa’s better half. Kids will get a gingerbread house with plenty of icing and candy like gum drops, peppermint, jelly rings and more to decorate a personalized Christmas cottage. From 1-4pm. Reservations are $25 per house and limited space is available. Please call 609884-6583 to make your reservations. please turn to next page holidays

2016

November 26, December 3, 4, 10, 17, 18 Story Time with Mrs Claus Visit Santa’s Workshop on Congress Hall’s Grand Lawn for Story Time with Mrs Claus. During Winter Wonderland, kids can gather round in the cozy workshop as Mrs Claus reads them Christmas classics and new holiday tales. Story Time with Mrs Claus runs at 10:15am and 11:15 am.

November 26 - December 30 “This Wonderful Life” A live theatrical version of Frank Capra’s classic It’s A Wonderful Life. Actor Jeremey Konopka transforms into George Bailey, Mary Bailey, Mr Potter and all of the residents of Bedford Falls in a heartwarming celebration of how a community comes together just in time for Christmas. Offering dinner and a show or lunch and a matinee at the Blue Pig Tavern, Thursday to Saturday, 7:30pm. Dinner and a show is $59 per person. Call 609-8846500 for reservations. Shows will not take place on the following dates: December 2, 3, 24, 25 November 26, December 3, 10, 17 Winter Wonderland Concert Series Local choirs and dance academies have been working hard all year long to bring their top-notch performances to Congress Hall this holiday season. Every Saturday during Winter Wonderland at 2pm, these young artists will take the stage on Congress Hall’s Veranda to spread some holiday cheer through music and dance.

Grab a cup of cocoa, support some local talent and fill your hearts with the spirit of the season as you enjoy these talented groups.

The Winter Wonderland Concert series takes place at 2pm. Free admission.

November 25 to January 1 Santa’s Workshop Santa is setting up his workshop on Congress Hall’s Grand Lawn this Christmas. When the elves are not busy making toys, kids can come work on their own Christmas crafts. Write a letter to Santa to let him know all of your Christmas wishes, and drop it in the mailbox that will go straight to the North Pole. Stop by Saturday and Sunday mornings for Story Time with Mrs Claus, or create your own holiday ceramics on Saturday afternoons. Santa’s workshop is open during Winter Wonderland — Thursdays and Fridays from 5pm-9pm, Saturdays from 9am-9pm and Sundays 9am-6pm. While Santa’s elves take a break, the workshop is open for fun on Congress Hall’s lawn.

December 4 and 18 Brunch with Santa Visit Congress Hall’s Grand Ballroom from 11-3 for a limited engagement with the main man. Brunch with Santa features an elegant buffet, a reservation with Kris Kringle, and a complimentary 5×7 photo from a professional photographer.

Enjoy waffles and omelets made to order, plus hearty entrées like roasted chicken breast. Each child will get a reservation for time exit zero

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with Santa, so no waiting in line. Tickets for adults are $48 per person, kids 4-12 $22. For reservations and more information, call 609-884-6574.

December 27, 28 & 29 Bicentennial Birthday Dinner The buzz around Cape May this summer was the sold out Bicentennial Birthday Dinners in the ballroom. If you missed them, don’t worry! The revival will be back this December with the original cast! December 27, 28, and 29 come enjoy this singular event, with a special holiday spin. As we close the books on the Bicentennial Celebration, come and help the folks at the old hotel blow out the candles on this very special birthday year. Take a step back in time at Congress Hall’s weekly Bicentennial Birthday Celebration. These interactive singalongs will be led by Annie Knight, who owned Congress Hall from 1904-1931, along with Congress Hall’s current owner, Curtis Bashaw. Enjoy a family style feast with a modern spin on yesterday’s favorite dishes. Annie and Curtis will tell the story of Congress Hall’s 200-year history, with special appearances from some of the most distinguished guests that stayed at Congress Hall when it was The Summer White House. Adults: $65, children (5-12) $25. For reservations please call 609-884-6554. holidays

2016

Counting down the days until Winter Wonderland (left and above) at historic Congress Hall. Aleksey Moryakov

Harbor View Lunch & Dinner Thu - Sun PLUS...

Breakfast Sat & Sun 954 OCEAN DRIVE, CAPE MAY  (609) 884-5444  HARBORVIEWCAPEMAY.COM exit zero

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The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe

Meals served

Price range of entrées

Bar or BYOB?

Should I book?

Food for kids?

Other details

ALEATHEA’S 7 Ocean Street, Cape May (609) 884-5555, Ext. 226 www.innofcapemay.com

Excellent food at the glorious old Inn of Cape May. There’s a cozy-but-elegant bar with access to the oceanfront patio. Check out the antique-filled lobby first.

B, L, D

$5-$32 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR

YES

YES

 U

BELLA VIDA CAFÉ 406 N. Broadway, W. Cape May (609) 884-6332 www.bellavidacafe.com

“The local café with a wholesome aroma” is what they call it. You can tell that everything is home cooked here. Always fresh, always delicious.

B, L, D

$5-$25 Cards: V, MC, D

BYOB

NO

YES

 

THE BLACK DUCK 1 Sunset Boulevard, W. Cape May (609) 898-0100 www.blackduckonsunset.com

Chic interior and stylish Modern American cuisine from acclaimed chef (and owner) Chris Hubert, but the ambience is still laidback and casual.

D

$15-$28 Cards: V, MC

BYOB

YES

NO

  

THE BLUE PIG TAVERN 251 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-8422 www.caperesorts.com

Many of its menu items are coming from the local Beach Plum Farm. The Pig serves classic tavern food with quite a a twist or two along the way.

B, L, D

$12-$36 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR

YES

YES

  

BLUE ROSE INN 653 Washington Street, Cape May (609) 435-5458 www.blueroseinn.com

This is Cape May at its best — a fine, family-owned, recently opened restaurant in a newly renovated B&B on a beautiful, tree-lined street.

Brunch, D

$10-$32 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BYOB

YES

NO



THE BOILER ROOM 251 Beach Avenue, (609) 884-8422 www.caperesorts.com

Congress Hall’s chic basement nightclub — all bare metal and brickwork — now has a brick oven serving thin-crust pizza, and has added a line of draft beers.

Pizza

Cards: V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR

NO

NO



THE BROWN ROOM 251 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-8422 www.caperesorts.com

Congress Hall’s lounge is called Cape May’s Living Room for a reason. The decor is elegant, the drinks are great, the staff is cool, and the place just says “classy.”

Bar Menu

Cards: V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR

NO

NO



CABANAS 429 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-4800 www.cabanasonthebeach.com

The party is here — always warm and friendly in this lively beachfront bar, featuring great food and some of the best live bands around.

B, L, D

$8-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR

YES

YES

 

CAPE MAY BREWING CO. 1288 Hornet Road, Rio Grande (609) 849-9933 www.capemaybrewery.com

It’s the first microbrewery at the Jersey Shore, and it’s creating quite the buzz... they have won multiple awards for their beers.

Check out the new tasting room.

Brewery

$5-$11 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

Tasting Room

NO

NO

  

CAPE MAY WINERY 711 Townbank, North Cape May (609) 884-1169 www.capemaywinery.com

Open daily from 12-5pm (7pm Friday and Saturday). Make a reservation to tour the winery on Saturdays and Sunday at 3pm.

Look for their new wine releases!

Winery

$5-$27 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

Winery

N/A

NO

  U

CARNEY’S Beach and Jackson, Cape May (609) 884-4424 www.carneyscapemaynj.com

Live music on the weekends, great early bird and happy hour specials, and casual fare that’s reliable... all across the street from the beach.

L, D

$12-$28 Cards: V, MC

BAR

NO

YES

 

THE CARRIAGE HOUSE 1048 Washington Street At the Emlen Physick Estate (609) 884-5111

The Carriage House offers everything from hearty wraps, salads, quiche and paninis to classic teas. Best of all is the location — the gorgeous Emlen Physick Estate.

L

$12-$19 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BYOB

YES

YES

 

SYMBOLS KEY

 Onsite parking

 Handicap accessible exit zero

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Takeout available

2016

U Dog-friendly patio

PMS 483

FRIDAY FRIDAY

THURSDAY THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY

BLUE PLATES ARE BACK! In honor of Congress Hall’s 200th Anniversary TUESDAY The Blue Pig is offering a Bicentennial Special on Tuesday evenings.

TUESDAY

$18.16 BLUE PLATE SPECIAL MONDAY

MONDAY SUNDAY

Soup or Salad, Entrée and Dessert. Regular price $26.99.

SUNDAY

SUNDAY MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

*Blue Plate Specials are available Sunday - Thursday nights.

Complimentary Valet Parking | For reservations call (609) 884-8422 Located in Congress Hall | 200 Congress Place | thebluepigtavern.com THURSDAY

FRIDAY

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The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe

Meals served

Price range of entrées

Bar or BYOB?

Should I book?

Food for kids?

Other details

B, L, D

$9-$36 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

YES

YES

 

L, D

$13-$28 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

NO

YES

 

D

$26-$33 V, MC, AE, D

BAR

YES

NO



B, L, D

$15-$38 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

YES

YES

  

D

$18-$24 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BYOB

NO

YES

   U

BAR

NO

YES

 

COASTAL BLUE 9701 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood Crest, (609) 729-6600 www.coastalbluenj.com

Beautiful, airy restaurant located at Hotel Icona, in Diamond Beach, a short drive from Cape May. Gourmet dishes served in a vibe that’s best described as seaside chic.

DELANEY’S IRISH BAR & GRILL 400 Washington Mall, Cape May (609) 770-8559 www.delaneyscapemay.com

What was once Jackson Mountain is now an Irish-style bar and restaurant, with some excellent pub food, and a very decent selection of drinks.

THE EBBITT ROOM 25 Jackson Street, (609) 884-5700 www. virginiahotel.com

Enjoy your meal on the Ebbitt Room porch, overlooking tree-lined Jackson Street, or enjoy the simple beauty of this dining room, one of the finest in South Jersey.

E. M. HEMINGWAY’S 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-5611 www.hemingwayscapemay.com

Casual and family-friendly, E. M. Hemingway’s offers great seafood, prime beef and nightly specials. Enjoy their happy hours daily from 4-7pm and weekend DJs.

EXIT ZERO COOKHOUSE 109 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May (609) 770-8479

Yep, the people who put out this magazine and run retail stores have a restaurant, too.

Nine curries on the menu, along with some fun American dishes.

FINS BAR & GRILLE 142 Decatur Street, Cape May (609) 884-3449 www.finscapemay.com

Really cool decor and exciting food make this newish restaurant a welcome addition to the local landscape. It’s located at the former Pilot House, just off the mall.

L, D

$18-$34 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

5 WEST PUB 3729 Bayshore, N. Cape May (609) 889-7000 www.5westpub.com

A gastropub from the owners of Tisha’s, a Cape May favorite. Expect exciting dishes, good drinks, and a scene that’s usually buzzing. A few minutes drive from town.

L, D

$6-$20 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

YES

YES

   U

HARBOR VIEW 954 Ocean Drive (609) 884-5444 www.harborviewcapemay.com

A locals’ favorite for a reason. There’s a Key West vibe, good food, regular entertainment, and the views are spectacular. Spend the day — or night.

B, L, D

$6-$30 Cards: V, MC

BAR

NO

YES

 

THE LOBSTER HOUSE Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May (609) 884-8296 www.thelobsterhouse.com

Take-out, fish market, restaurant, raw bar... the Lobster House has it all. Drinks on the Schooner American, watching the boats before dinner, is a lovely experience.

B, L, D

$5-$48 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

NO

YES

  U

LOUISA’S CAFÉ 104 Jackson Street Cape May (609) 884-5519

This tiny, loveable spot has been a favorite for four decades. Expect fresh, simple, delicious food, using produce from the local Beach Plum Farm.

D

$20-$23 Cash Only

BYOB

YES

NO



LUCKY BONES 1200 Route 109, Cape May (609) 884-BONE www.luckybonesgrill.com

A huge hit and locals’ favorite for a reason.

Excellent food, great bar vibe, superb service. Lucky Bones gets it right every single time.

L, D

$6-$22 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

For tables of eight or more

YES

  

OCEAN VIEW Beach & Grant Avenues (609) 884-3772 www.oceanviewrestaurant.com

At this oceanfront staple, expect a large menu, full of classic diner food that’s reasonably priced. Locals frequent it, and you know that is always a good sign.

B, L, D

$9-$30 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BYOB

NO

YES

  

SYMBOLS KEY

 Onsite parking

 Handicap accessible exit zero

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Takeout available

2016

U Dog-friendly patio

HOLIDAY GIFT CARD OFFER

Get an Extra $10 for Every $50 Spent Valid November 25 thru December 18 At the Restaurant AND Online!

Fabulous Food & Cool Cocktails in a Casual Pub Atmosphere!

To our readers, advertisers, friends and enemies, dogs, cats and hamsters... have a very happy holiday season! exit zero

HAPPY HOUR Daily 3-6pm & All Day Sunday

WING NIGHT Sundays 4-8pm ½ Price Wings $2 Bud Light Pints

Serving Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week

Kitchen Hours: Sun.-Thur. 11:30am-10pm, Fri. & Sat 11:30am-11pm

3729 BAYSHORE ROAD, NORTH CAPE MAY (609) 889-7000 | 5WESTPUB.COM

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The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe

Meals served

Price range of entrées

Bar or BYOB?

Should I book?

Food for kids?

Other details

OYSTER BAY 615 Lafayette Street (609) 884-2111 www.oysterbayrestaurantnj.com

A lovely dining room, a buzzy separate bar, a new bar menu, great martinis and classic, generous dishes. Check out their happy hour from 4-6:30pm.

D

$12-$29 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

YES

YES

  

PETER SHIELDS INN 1301 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-9090 www.petershieldsinn.com

The Georgian Revival mansion on Cape May’s beachfront is magnificent, and the creative modern American menu matches it all the way. A classy eating experience.

D

$22-$39 Cards: V, MC, D

BYOB

NO

NO



THE RED STORE 500 Cape Avenue, Cape May Point (609) 884-5757

Awesome food in a secluded, serene setting. Join them for a scrumptious breakfast, grab a coffee and muffin, or relax on the porch with a delicious lunch.

B, L, D

$5-$35 Cash Only

BYOB

NO

YES

  

RIO STATION 3505 Route 9 South Rio Grande (609) 889-2000

With a new menu, Rio Station offers steaks, local seafood, creative salads, vegetarian options and an award-winning wine list.

Plus 14 beers on tap, including local crafts.

B, L, D

$13-$29 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

YES

YES

  

TISHA’S 322 Washington Street Mall Cape May (609) 884-9119

A hot spot on the Washington Street Mall, where they serve up irresistible concoctions for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

A great people-watching spot, too.

L, D

$18-$35 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BYOB

YES

YES

 U

TOMMY’S FOLLY COFFEE 251 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-6522 www.caperesorts.com

Situated in the lobby of Congress Hall, this shop has great coffee and to-go breakfast goodies, as well as healthy and tasty lunch wraps, plus soups, shakes and more.

B, Café

$1-$7 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

NO

NO

YES

  U

THE UGLY MUG 426 Washington Street Mall Cape May (609) 884-3459

A Cape May legend, and even better now that they’ve put those wonderful booths in there. Such a treat. It has a classic pub vibe, and always a warm, friendly atmosphere.

L, D

$12-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

NO

YES

 

UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKES Beach Avenue & Perry Street Cape May (609) 884-7199

Reliably excellent food; there is a reason why people wait a while to eat here... excellent breakfasts and brunches at this circular restaurant overlooking the Atlantic.

B, L

$4-$9 Cash Only

BYOB

NO

YES

  

UNION PARK Beach Avenue & Howard (609) 884-8811 www.unionparkdiningroom.com

Exquisite dining in a classic old hotel, where both the decor and the food are inspired.

Voted one of the best restaurants in the state by New Jersey Monthly magazine.

D

$18-$35 Cards: V, MC, AE

BYOB

YES

YES

  

VINCENZO’S LITTLE ITALY II 3704 Bayshore Road North Cape May (609) 889-6610

If you want to bring the family for a fine and fun Italian meal, look no further. The kids will love it. Excellent pasta dishes, and they’ve recently expanded their pizzeria.

L, D

$8-$20 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BYOB

YES

YES

  

WASHINGTON INN 801 Washington, Cape May (609) 884-5697 www.washingtoninn.com

Superb gourmet food, and a cool but cozy bar. Check out an amazing wine list of over 10,000 bottles; they’ve got the largest wine cellar in South Jersey.

D

$18-$34 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BAR

YES

YES

  

YOZU 3845 Bayshore, North Cape May (609) 898-8888 www.yozusushihibachi.com

Offers a wide array of Japanese dishes, such as hibachi steak, chicken teriyaki, vegetable tempura, harumaki, seafood udon, California roll and squid sashimi.

L, D

$5-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D

BYOB

YES

YES

  

SYMBOLS KEY

 Onsite parking

 Handicap accessible exit zero

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Takeout available

2016

U Dog-friendly patio

LITTLE ITALY II RISTORANTE

Home-cooked food that will satisfy you, your family, AND your wallet.

PIZZA • VONGOLE ALLA CASINO • PENNE ALLA GIOVANNI SHRIMP FRA DIAVOLO • FLOUNDER MEDITERRANEAN VEAL ALLA VINCENZO • CHICKEN SALTIMBOCCA ALLA ROMANA

3704 BAYSHORE ROAD, NORTH CAPE MAY (Cape Plaza Shopping Center) • 889-6610

Uncle Bill’s & FAMILY RESTAURANT

Pancakes, perfected!

BEACH AVENUE & PERRY STREET 609-884-7199 « Pet-Friendly Outdoor seating! exit zero

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Local Winter Warm-Up A SPECIAL INVITATION FOR OUR FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS OF CAPE MAY AND ATLANTIC COUNTY This winter Cape Resorts is showing appreciation by offering a fabulous package so you can find a retreat without having to go too far.

As our guest you will enjoy a $40 dining and cocktail credit per day for all Cape Resorts restaurants and lounges, plus - kids eat free (if you decide to bring them), 15% off one Sea Spa treatment and retail item, two hot chocolates with whipped cream from Tommy’s Folly, and a 1pm late check out.

RATES FROM $99 For reservations at Congress Hall, The Sandpiper, The Star or The Virginia call (855) 290-8467 or visit caperesorts.com and mention promo code LOCWARM

200 C O N G R E S S P L AC E , CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY | CAPERESORTS.COM | RESERVATIONS (888) 944-1816 exit zero

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Winter Wonderland AT AMERICA’S OLDEST SEASIDE RESORT

Holiday Happenings Step out the doors of Congress Hall into a magical Winter Wonderland with train and carousel rides, Santa’s Workshop, Shopping Village, Breakfast with Santa, Gingerbread House decorating, Storytime with Mrs. Claus & much more!

THANKSGIVING FEASTS

THIS WONDERFUL LIFE - DINNER & A SHOW

Congress Hall and The Virginia | November 24th

Congress Hall | November 26th - December 30th

TREE LIGHTING & HOLIDAY CONCERT

CHRISTMAS DAY DINNERS

Congress Hall | December 2

Congress Hall and The Virginia | December 25th

nd

WINTER WONDERLAND

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS

Congress Hall | November 25th - January 1st

Congress Hall and The Virginia | December 31st

BICENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY DINNERS Congress Hall Ballroom | December 27th, 28 th & 29th

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cape may culture One man — and one unforgettable classic With one actor and 35 distinct characters, Cape May Stage’s holiday show, One Christmas Carol, is a one-man tour de force that delivers an intimate and spirited evening of theatre for the family. With the only props being three unmatched chairs, Dickens’ fable about selfishness and selflessness is stripped down to its bare essence, foregoing the usual opulence of the holidays and focusing on what is of utmost importance during the season. Dickens’ colorful characters are all present — Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchitt, Tiny Tim, Fezziwig, Belle, the Ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Future — springing to new life with a treasure trove of moral lessons. No scenery, no costumes — just one actor and a timeless story.

Undertaking this daunting task is New York-based actor Gary Marachek, who will be directed by Cape May Stage’s Roy Steinberg.

We spoke to Steinberg about the show, and his plans for spending the holidays in Cape May.

ing the week as well…

What are your favorite things to watch on TV? I don’t watch much TV — more of a Netflix guy. I have seen enough Christmas films and television specials to last me the rest of my life.

And what’s your favorite holiday tipple? I like inventing new holiday cocktails — Time Out New York magazine has great suggestions.

You’ve been here eight seasons now — what are your favorite offseason traditions in town? I love to see the town lit up for the holidays and just walking down Hughes Street. We always eat at Peter Shields Inn and the Washington Inn — and sometimes The Red Store if they are open.

Now give us a headsup about what’s happening for the 2017 season at Cape May Stage. What are you particularly excited about? Our 2017 season has “passion” as a unifying theme — what Joseph Campbell called “following your bliss”. It is the 100th anniver-

The new show, One Christmas Carol, features one actor playing 35 different roles. How did you select Gary Marachek for this role? I met Gary in New York when his agent submitted him, saying he’d been in more than 300 Equity productions and played at the nation’s leading theaters like Asolo Repertory, Goodspeed Opera House, Paper Mill Playhouse and Ford’s Theatre in DC. He impressed me with his vocal instrument — I needed someone who can do 35 different voices. He is also a hilarious storyteller in real life and I needed one for this production. He played the MC in Cirque Du Soleil and was great physically.

It must take some serious stamina — what kind of shape does an actor have to get into to put on such a performance every night?

Is it exhausting, mentally and physically? Artaud wrote “an actor is an athlete of the heart” in Theatre and its Double. An actor needs extraordinary concentration and stamina. Imagine doing 35 characters twice a day — plus, we have matinees on the weekends.

How would you compare this to an old Cape May Stage favorite, This Wonderful Life, another one-man show? This Wonderful Life is equally challenging, although One Christmas Carol has the added element of 19th- century language so we need to be sure a modern audience understands what is being said hearing it only once.

You’re wearing a pretty ugly sweater in this picture. Is this part of the CMS prop department, or do you actually own this garment?

My ugly sweater was purchased proudly at the local Walmart. Having arrived here from LA I liked the sunglasses on the reindeer … I wear it to introduce the Christmas show — and at parties.

What will your plans be for a cool Cape May Christmas following the show? I’m not directing on Christmas Eve — we’ve got Christmas Eve and Christmas Day off. [My wife] Marlena is a magnificent cook and we often have close friends over. The traditional Jewish Christmas food is the Chinese restaurant — we’ll do some of that durexit zero

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sary of the United States’ involvement in World War I and we begin with a musical called Billy Bishop Goes To War that is both funny and poignant. Billy Bishop had a passion for flying. Then we do The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife, involving a passion for learning, though it’s a sendup of upper-middle-class New York. The author is Charles Busch and he is coming here to do his drag show — the same show he will do on New Year’s Eve at 54 Below in New York. In August and September, it’s The Gin Game, a Pulitzer Prize winning comedy that I hope to cast with stars. We’ll also be doing Outside Mullingar, an Irish romantic comedy. Finally we do The Ultimate Christmas Show, about three guys doing Christmas acts from around the world when the Garden State is snowed in — silly and fun. I’m excited about all of the plays but particularly Outside Mullingar — I love Irish literature and humor.

Is there one play you are desperate to bring here but it hasn’t quite happened yet? There is a play in London called The Truth by Florian Zeller, translated by Christopher Hampton, that I want to bring to Cape May but the rights are not available. I contacted the London license holders and said I wanted to do the US premiere. I am persistent — maybe I will get permission for 2018. It is our 30th anniversary in 2018 and I’m looking for a major play to celebrate that event.

One Christmas Carol will be performed November 25 through December 31, Thursday to Saturday at 7:30pm, plus Saturday and Sunday at 3pm at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse on Lafayette and Bank Street. Visit capemaystage.org for more details. Cape May Stage is producing a second holiday show, This Wonderful Life, which will be performed in Congress Hall’s ballroom this holiday season. See page 14 for more details. holidays

2016

Cape May Stage Producing Artistic Director Roy Steinberg takes a breather at Rotary Park ahead of a busy season — the theater company will be offering two shows over the holidays, one at the Robert Shackleton Theater and a second at Congress Hall.

Aleksey Moryakov

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a cape may moment

Chloe, Ava and Brianna at Beach Plum Farm Fall Festival in West Cape May on October 29. Aleksey Moryakov

spread Holiday cheer with local craft beer

TAsting room open daily | 1288 hornet road | inside the cape may airport | capemaybrewery.com exit zero

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TASTE THE SEASON! HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE EBBITT ROOM. With a hearth to cozy up to on chilly evenings, and piano keys that twinkle up to the nighttime stars, our flavor extends well beyond your plate.

OPEN NIGHTLY | EARLY SEATING MENU | COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING RESERVATIONS 609.884.5700 | 25 JACKSON STREET | EBBITTROOM.COM

cape may culture

East Lynne’s Gayle Stahlhuth will be offering holiday-themed readings from the likes of Nathaniel Hawthorne and Mark Twain.

Reading from the masters at East Lynne Looking for a wonderful way to experience the most wonderful time of year? East Lynne Theater Company’s artistic director Gayle Stahlhuth has you covered. After plowing through dozens of stories, she has selected a special few to present for the holidays, in storytelling fashion. That means she’ll be taking on the personas of at least 30 different characters on stage in a one-woman show. This is Yuletide Tales, a cheerfully good way to experience the writing of literary greats Nathaniel Hawthorne, Edward Everett Hale, Mark Twain and O Henry.

Hale is best known for The Man Without a Country, but Stahlhuth will be tackling 9 Linwood Street, the story of Nora, a young girl from Ireland who steps foot on American soil for the first time in December 1895 in Boston. You can bank on this being a fun story — Hale was known for his perceptive wit. When he was Chaplain of the United States Senate, he was asked “Do you pray for the senators, Dr Hale?” He replied, “No, I look at the senators, and pray for the country.” In Twain’s Susie’s Letter from Santa Clause, a little girl communicated with Santa through a household speaking tube. Many of Hawthorne’s works question people’s motives through his eerie, somewhat supernatural style of writing. His exquisitely written Snow Image is no exception. Do Violet and Sam create a real child out of snow, or is it just their imagination? But the real question becomes: Does their father have the right to question their imagination? O Henry provides his usual twist at the end of The Gift of the Magi, proving that the love between Della and James Dillingham is stronger than the gifts they exchange. O Henry writes that the Magi were wise men who created gift-giving at Christmas time, but the Dillinghams are also wise in how they give and receive their special gifts.

Stahlhuth has written and performed a variety of one-person shows. Not only has she been praised by patrons and reviewers for this work, but when she performed her adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, it was designated an American Masterpiece by the National Endowment for the Arts’ Masterpieces Series, acknowledging those who introduce Americans to “the best of their cultural and artistic legacy.”

Tickets for the show, happening November 25 and 26 and several dates in December, are $27 for general admission; $17 for students and those currently serving or retired from the military; and, as always, anyone age 12 and under is free. For information and reservations, call 884-5898, e-mail eastlynneco@aol.com, or visit eastlynnetheater.org. exit zero

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BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY AT PETER SHIELDS NOW!

Dinner Nightly from 5:30pm (5pm Saturday)

Simple... Sustainable... Seasonal Award-Winning Cuisine in a Beautiful Beachfront Mansion

Open 7 Nights

$40 EARLY DINNER PRIX FIXE - Sunday through Friday 5:30-6:30pm (excl. Sat & Holiday weekends)

$33 WINTER 3 COURSE PRIX FIXE - Available Thursdays and Sundays January through March Weddings • Rehearsals • Bridal Showers • Special Occasions

1301 Beach Avenue, Cape May exit zero

609.884.9090 29

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petershieldsinn.com

a cape may moment

The Larario family at the Cape May Winery Oyster Roast on October 16. Aleksey Moryakov

A spectacular harbor setting

for your special event

CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB of CAPE MAY

Our traditional clubhouse, gorgeous sunset views and exceptional cuisine lend a memorable, distinctive touch to any gathering. Relax around our new firepit before and after!

1819 DELAWARE AVENUE, CAPE MAY (609) 884-8000 • cyccm.com / capemaybeachwedding.com

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The Ocean Column

Good news: Ross Sea in Antarctica, site of the world’s largest marine park

Major problems, but some miracles, too we’re coming up on the season of giving and caroling and feeling warm and fuzzy, so I won’t bring you down this month with all of the terrible things happening to our ocean (global warming, acidification, species decline, plastic garbage patches… okay, so I won’t elaborate on them).

There are good things — call them holiday miracles — going on, too. Good people are fighting to save our seas, which may not be a present we can put under a tree, but — like a beautiful sunset in Cape May or half-price appetizers at the Washington Inn’s Wine Bar — it’s one hell of a gift.

The ocean doesn’t just produce a sixth of the animal protein we eat (including everything on the table for a Feast of the Seven Fishes come Christmas Eve), it generates half the oxygen we breathe. The Marine Conservation Institute calls it the most promising source of new medicines to combat cancer and other diseases. And because it’s the largest ecosystem on earth, it underpins our economic activity. In other words, if the ocean’s not in good shape, neither are we. Spoiler alert: the ocean’s not in

good shape. (Not elaborating, I swear.)

So… what are we doing about it?

Last month, the European Union and 24 countries created the world’s largest marine park, and the first in international waters: Ross Sea in Antarctica. This means no fishing will be allowed in a big chunk of this area from this point forward. Chris Johnson of the World Wildlife Federation told the Guardian newspaper: “This is important not just for the incredible diversity of life that it will protect, but also for the contribution it makes to building the resilience of the world’s ocean in the face of climate change.” Chris Johnson is on Santa’s nice list this year.

Meanwhile, researchers from the University of Hawaii have recently visited — for the first time — Cook Seamount, a 13,000foot volcano whose summit rests 3,000 feet below the surface of the Pacific. These kind of undersea mountains are plentiful — they cover approximately 18 million square miles of the planet — but they’re rarely explored.

(It costs about $50,000 per day to take such an expedition… or the price of 4,000 pounds of fudge from The Original Fudge Kitchen.) Until this trip, no human had ever even seen Cook Seamount.

There’s hope that these massive strucexit zero

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By Diane Stopyra tures could be the new frontier for scientists aiming to understand how the ocean works. On this particular expedition, a new species of coral was discovered and named Purple Haze (who said science nerds don’t have a sense of humor?). While studying these areas will help us protect sea mountains and, therefore, the fisheries they support, it may also reveal “almost magical DNA solutions,” according to researcher Greg Stone in a recent interview with Conservation.org. “We have already found in the ocean a painkiller that is more effective and less addictive than morphine.”

And here’s a piece of ocean conservation news especially pertinent to Cape May: Early this month, 200 scientists met at The New Bedford Whaling Museum in Massachusetts, to discuss plans for saving the right whale. In case you missed the recent issue of Exit Zero, where we interviewed Tracie and Doug Cicchitti of the Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center, right whales are super endangered (we’re talking less than 500 in the world… okay, so I’m elaborating a little), and they’ve got a feeding ground right off our island. So let’s hope all these researchers come up with a workable strategy, and get something special in their stockings for doing so.

Speaking of awesome plans, it’s not just scientists who are striving to save the sea — shoe brands (that’s right, shoe brands) are increasingly backing the cause. Adidas has announced a range of footwear made from reclaimed ocean trash, hitting stores this year. And a startup called Bloom has begun harvesting wild algae also for use in making sneakers. (Due to our carbon emissions, algae is running amok, and it’s leeching oxygen from the water and creating major problems for sea life… okay, I’m elaborating a little more.) The product is expected to be in more than 100 million pairs of shoes by 2018. So buy some shoes, help save the world.

Who would have thought?

In the meantime, this is the season of hope, so I’m choosing to hope our ocean isn’t doomed yet — as long as we all get on board with her rescue. If you haven’t made your Christmas wish yet, maybe between all that giving and caroling and feeling warm and fuzzy, send one up for the sea.

The Original

FUDGE KITCHEN

JOE SAYS: Come in and sample a piece of our delicious fudge.

We’re sure you’ll agree it’s the best!

PAUL SAYS: Treat a friend or loved one to a special piece of Cape May. We mail anywhere in the world!

A CAPE MAY TRADITION

Celebrating 45 years of the finest fudge, chocolates & sweet treats!

Our Famous Pumpkin Pie Fudge is Back!

FEATURING Whipped Creamy Fudge & Premium Chocolates Saltwater Taffy & Homemade Caramel Corn Hand-Dipped Ice Cream & More!

OPEN EVERY DAY IN CAPE MAY Washington Street Mall and the Promenade

TOLL-FREE @ 1-800-23-FUDGE « ONLINE @ www.FudgeKitchens.com exit zero

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The History Column

A Cape May Christmas parade from the 1950s featuring a fire truck which is currently owned by local firefighter, Jeff Laag. Courtesy of George Rea, Sr

Yule Cape May — keeping it festive cape may’s first organized city christmas celebration happened in 1921, when a community tree was erected in front of the high school, now City Hall, on Christmas Eve. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, “It was a blaze of multi-colored lights.”

Presents were then handed out to local children from impoverished households by members of the Progressive League. The next day, before dawn, each of the local church choirs walked through the streets with students from the high school, singing carols.

The following year and each year after, Cape May continued to put up a municipal tree and hold a lighting ceremony. The only exceptions came from 1942 to 1944, during World War Two. Because the city was in a coastal “dim-out” area, designated by the New Jersey Office of Civilian Defense, the city was required to keep the tree unlit.

Although the church choirs no longer sing carols in the street on Christmas morning, there are plentiful concerts all over the city.

The community Christmas tree now stands in Rotary Park and the lights are switched on much earlier in the season — this year, the offi-

cial lighting will be held on December 2.

These days, one of the biggest holiday events on the calendar is the iconic West Cape May Christmas Parade, though it was preceded by the Greater Cape May Christmas Parade, which began in 1957 and continued until it was canceled, due to rain, in 1965.

The first West Cape May Christmas Parade in 1965 brought the community much more than holiday cheer. As future Parade Lady Charlotte Daily led the inaugural parade down Broadway, borough commissioners realized the street was not adequately lit. By August of the following year, 26 new mercury vapor street lights had been added.

The idea of Cape May creating a Victorian-themed Christmas tourist season was hatched in 1980 as a way for the owners of a B&B to make their mortgage payment. Sue Carroll, who formerly ran the famous Mainstay Inn with husband Tom, once told me that Dane and Joan Wells “single-handedly started the Christmas season in Cape May.” After speaking with the Wells, former owners of the Queen Victoria B&B, I learned that Sue was right!

Joan Wells explained, “We were crazy enough to have the idea we would be open year-round in what we discovered was a very seasonal town. But then those mortgage payexit zero

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By Ben Miller ments hung over us. We had seen what Victorian Weekend did to extend the season from Labor Day into mid-October, so we looked at the calendar to see what we could do to pull it along another few weeks, and we saw Christmas, which was a very Victorian holiday.”

Dane and Joan decided to draw customers in by creating specially themed weekends in December. The first was dedicated to making and hanging decorations, the second was devoted to the classic Dickens tale A Christmas Carol, while the third weekend involved traditional Victorian caroling.

Their idea wasn’t a big hit... at first. Fate entered the picture when Ronan O’Casey came to the Mainstay along with his wife to help with putting up the decorations that first year. As it turned out, Ronan wasn’t much of a handyman, but he was an actor, and he chose to entertain everyone after dinner by reading a selection from A Christmas Carol.

“He had only intended to read a bit from the book,” according to Joan, “but he was so entertaining we prevailed on him to keep on until he completed the story. The guests remained spellbound until the very end.” As luck would have it, one of the other individuals there worked for a a popular national magazine — in that moment, a tradition was born.

The following week, a photographer and a writer from the magazine showed up to profile the Queen Victoria’s Christmas fun.

There’re weren’t many customers that first year — about 40 people — but word spread and the seeds had been planted. The following Christmas, it was a different story, with 400 customers attending a special house tour that was added to the festivities.

As Dane remembers it, “The following year we got together with three other inns and decided to make it a group tour. The Queen Victoria did the history of Victorian Christmas, the Captain Mey’s Inn did a Dutch Christmas, the Brass Bed Inn did a children’s Christmas with a formidable collection of old toys, and Alexander’s followed with a food theme.”

Year by year, the numbers increased and now, Cape May is alive and vibrant during the Christmas season, with Congress Hall’s Winter Wonderland giving visitors yet another compelling reason to celebrate the holidays in America’s Original Seaside Resort.

a cape may moment

Friends and family celebrate Dr Schroeder’s 90th birthday party at Union Park on October 29. Aleksey Moryakov

Wood-Fired Brick Oven Pizza & Craft Beer on Tap C O M E WATCH AL L T HE E XCI T EME NT O F T H E NF L O N O U R 12 H D T E L EV I S I O NS o p en T h u , Fri, Sat , Mo n f ro m 5pm | S u n f rom 1 2p m | c ap e re s or ts . c om/b oi l e rroom

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a cape may moment

E.M. Hemingway’s halloween party on October 29 at the Grand Hotel. Aleksey Moryakov

Give the gift of curry

Modern American cuisine with a cool and casual vibe...

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE CALL

1 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May (609) 898-0100 • www.blackduckonsunset.com

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609-770-8479

Curry!

FINALLY... Indian food in Cape May!

in Cape May

Plus some fun American dishes!

109 Boulevard 109 Sunset Sunset Boulevard

ACROSS FROM THE GAS STATION ACROSS FROM THE GAS STATION

609-305-5203 ezcookhouse.com « To-go available 609-305-5203 « « ezcookhouse.com « To-go available

RESERVATIONS FOR PARTIES OF FIVE -PLUS37ONLY PLEASE CALL FOR THE LATEST HOURS exit zero holidays 2016 RESERVATIONS FOR PARTIES OF SIX-PLUS ONLY PS: WE HAVE A LOVELY DECK!

your

totalLy

LocaL shopping guiDe

You didn’t know there were so many cool items in the shops of Cape May? Now that you do, there’s no excuse for going to the out-of-town malls. worDs: sue tischLer pictures: aLeKsey moryaKov exit zero

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The cool cape may holiday shopping guide

Cape May Sweet House

Cape May Honey Farm

Cape May Olive Oil Company

Cape May Peanut Butter

Cape May Wicker

321 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

135 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST CAPE MAY

324 CARPENTER’S LANE

516 CARPENTER’S LANE

203 SUNSET BOULEVARD

The Vibe: Whimsical and old-timey, the perfect setting for browsing classic candies, nostalgic favorites, roasted nuts, caramel marshmallow swirls and old-fashioned salted caramels.

The Must Have: The handmade chocolates made specifically for the Sweet House by an awardwining chocolatier. Think chocolate-covered farm cherries and chocolate ganache-filled figs.

The Vibe: Rustic, airy and welcoming.

The Must Have: The store offers pure, natural, raw, local honey, harvested from their own hives, as well as other honey varieties, including those with antiviral and antibiotic properties, like Manuca and Buckwheat. But this holiday, we recommend the bee-utiful (had to) stocking stuffers: pure beeswax candles, honey soaps, lotions and books.

The Vibe: Artisanal. Here, you’re surrounded by gourmet treats: not just olive oils, but balsamic vinegars, sugars and jams!

The Must Have: Smoked balsamic. Just in for the holidays, this will be your new best friend. The softness of the smoke tames the sharpness of the vinegar and you are left with a secret weapon for everything from fresh cut melon to pulled pork and even roasted salmon.

The Vibe: Happy.

The Must Have: The PB Flights. This season, CMPB has two new ways to try their house-ground butters — as flights comprising three-ounce portions. The Natural Flight consists of natural peanut, almond, cashew, and sunflower varieties, as well as organic peanut. The Flavored Flight temps with honey roast, butter scotch, choc choc, cappuccino, and choc haze.

All together now: Mmmm.

The Vibe: Beachy. And it’s been that way since 1982!

The Must Have: Sure, there’s seaside decor, seasonal gifts and decorations, home furnishings, patio furniture, candles, and women’s clothing to choose from, but we can’t resist the beautiful Seascape Cupboard. It’s great for your beach getaway cottage or a Cape May-themed room back home. And, at $229, it’s a steal.

lake lily Caroline Boutique

Carriage House Shop

Exit Zero Store

Flying Fish Studio

Good Scents

400 CARPENTER’S LANE

1048 WASHINGTON STREET

109 SUNSET BOULEVARD

130 PARK BOULEVARD

CARPENTER’S LANE AND JACKSON STREET

The Vibe: Exclusive, yet accessible. You get that feeling you’re in a hidden gem of a boutique.

The Must Have: Once you feel Caroline’s elegant, 100% cashmere ponchos, you’ll want one for yourself as well as your pollyanna.

(We won’t tell...) They come in a variety of colors. And, priced at $158, this is the perfect accessory to take the chill off without covering up your outfit. Dress it up or down...

The Vibe: Quaint.

The Must Have: What child or teddy bear collector can resist their very own handmade teddy bear by the Cape May Teddy Bear Co.? Cape May Teddy Bears are produced in limited editions; each delivered with a numbered and signed certificate of authenticity. And, while buying that teddy bear, be sure to pick up a package of Harney & Sons English tea for teddy bear tea parties.

The Vibe: Cool... and full of everything that’s irresistible about Cape May! The Must Have: The new series of graphic paintings of local landmarks by Exit Zero Staff Artist Mike DeMusz. There’s Lake Lily (above), Cape May Lighthouse, The Cove, Higbee Beach and more.

The store also has a great collection of prints based on Mike’s best-selling oils collection from around the island. Local art rules!

The Vibe: Inspiring. How could it not be? The place is full of creative clothing and accessories for creative people.

The Must Have: A cozy sweatshirt to get ride of that winter chill... in style. We think you’ll love this highquality Authentic Pigment French Terry crewneck sweatshirt, a 10.5 ounce, 100% cotton garmentdyed in the USA for a soft, lived-in feel. God Save The Queen!

The Vibe: Sensory. After all, an awakening of the senses greets you as soon as you walk through the door.

Think twinkling lanterns, jewelry, and unusual gifts for the home.

The Must Have: We’re torn between the Find Your Way Back Cape May longitude/ latitude bracelets, necklaces and keychains, and the Moonglow moon phase necklace depicting the moon as it was on a special day of your choosing.

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GIVE THE GIFT OF CAPE MAY TO SOMEONE YOU LOVE SHOW HOW MUCH YOU CARE WITH A GIFT CARD FROM YOUR FAVORITE CAPE MAY TRADITION

GIFT CARDS ARE AVAILABLE FOR

BEACH SHACK CONGRESS HALL VIRGINIA AND SEA SPA TO PURCHASE VISIT ANY OF OUR PROPERTIES OR ORDER ONLINE AT CAPERESORTS.COM/GIFTCARDS

ALWAYS

Something New...

C h e ck o u t o u r n ew a r r iva l s, coming in all the time at

T o m m y ’s F o l l y H o m e S t o r e .

Open Daily | Gift Cards Available

congresshall.com | 200 Congress Place | (609) 884-6522

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Sea Bags

Just For Laughs

Kaleidoscope

Mary Ann’s Fine Jewelry

504 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

506 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

511 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

LIBERTY WAY, 507 WASHINGTON MALL

The Vibe: Funny! Just for Laughs is the center for all things hilarious, from books to socks to stocking stuffers.

The Must Have: An ugly Christmas sweater for those must-attend holiday parties. Make a statement with these gems, priced at $39.95. For stocking stuffers, check out a huge selection of funny socks.

Just the thing for those who have everything — or think they do.

The Vibe: Colorful. They sell colorful women’s clothing and accessories for colorful women.

The Must Have: The turtleneck poncho is just the item for chilly evenings.

Slip it on over leggings and you are ready to go.

These 100% acrylic, easy-fit ponchos are soft and warm and give all body types a stylish flair. Bonus — look at the price — $39.95. Why, that’s practically a holiday miracle.

The Vibe: Elegant.

The Must Have: Jewelry!

Take the Paloma Picasso 18-kt yellow-gold watch, priced at $8,995. This flowerburst, diamond cluster, waterfall-design ring for $8,495 will leave a lasting impression on some lucky lady’s hand.

Need a nice piece to set off that little Black dress?

This emerald necklace surrounded with diamond oval settings with do the trick. Price? $10,995.

The Vibe: Nautical, cozy and eco-friendly.

The Must Have: The Maine-made Cape May Nautical Chart Collection from Sea Bags offers unique and artisanal totes and accessories including wristlets, wine bags, bucket bags and placemats, all made from recycled sail material. These are sustainable items you can feel good about gifting to your favorite sailor... or first mate.

The Vibe: Positive. There are plenty of inspirational messages found on the merchandise here.

The Must Have: Fun and festive holiday socks! These super snuggly stockings are the perfect gift, or way for you to show your holiday spirit. Plus, they’re like a hug for the feet. Available in both men’s and women’s styles for only $12. Stop by to see these and dozens of other styles. ’Tis the season for great socks.

Red Oak

Bird House Of Cape May

Patricia Jackson Jewelry

Splash

109 SUNSET BOULEVARD

414 BANK STREET

Queen May

324 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

523 LAFAYETTE STREET

513 CARPENTER’S LANE

The Vibe: Boutique-ish. But affordable in a way many high-quality boutiques are not.

The Must Have: Mona B. bags and totes made from upcycled army tents and tarps. Add a little luxury to your gift list with Barefoot Dreams impossibly soft bamboo fabric cardigans and wraps — in sizes small through 3x. Or browse the other handcrafted and imported yet affordable, clothing and jewelry.

The Vibe: Natural. That’s because the place is full of nature-inspired garden gifts and home décor.

The Must Have: Handblown glass bowls and vases molded on to beautiful gamel wood bases. Suitable for terraria, seashell and sea glass collections, fresh flowers and plants. One of many fine gifts inspred by nature and artisan-crafted at this cool little store (right next to Exit Zero!)

The Vibe: Exquisite.

The Must Have: Let’s be real — the true must-have this season is the heart of a special lady. This should help you woo her: signature diamond disc earrings and matching pendant from Patricia Jackson Jewelers.

The earrings have a total diamond weight of .50ct; the pendant .23ct. Available in 14k white gold or platinum. What’s that they say about diamonds being a girl’s best friend?

The Vibe: Breathtaking.

The Must Have: This Art Deco showstopper!

A 10-carat platinum, diamond, and sapphire bracelet features Frenchcut sapphires and 125 diamonds. Looking for something else? Queen May’s estate jewelry collection spans four centuries and features jewelry and luxurgy goods guaranteed to make your wish list, and class up your Christmas.

The Vibe: Artsy! In other words, exactly what you’d expect from a place whose mission is to celebrate local artists.

The Must Have: Sea glass jewelry by local artist Janet Payne. Janet uses only pure sea glass she gathers herself on the beaches of Cape May to create her one-of-akind jewelry. This means each piece of sea glass is as unique as the wave that washed it ashore. Prices range from $49- $89.

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Across The Way 304 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

Cape May Wicker

Always the place for one of a kind Christmas & Holiday Decorations!

Cape May Wicker

203 SunSet et, WeSt t Cape May • 884-1849 1930 Route 9, CleRMont • 624-3031 exit zero

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Tommy’s Folly

Whale’s Tale

Cape May Gourmet

White

Bath Time

200 CONGRESS PLACE AT CONGRESS HALL

312 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

315 OCEAN STREET, WASHINGTON COMMONS

605 HUGHES STREET

318 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

The Vibe: A general store that is anything but general.

Distinctive merchandise and must-have items.

The Must Have: Whiteand-gold blown glass Christmas ornament in the shape of the Congress Hall crest, specially commissioned to commemorate the hotel’s bicentennial anniversary.

This elegant souvenir costs $42 and is also available online at caperesorts.com/ gifts.

The Vibe: Eclectic.

The Must Have: Crabtree & Evelyn Goat Milk Ultra-Moisturizing Hand Therapy for sensitive skin.

This intensive soothing and conditioning hand cream restores calm to overexposed hands. Price: $22.50. Also: Holiday Bling!

Be the life of the party with a glimmering necklace by Firefly Jewelry, created by the indigenous people in the highlands of Guatemala.

Price: $129.

The Vibe: Tasty!

The Must Have: Ravioli, of course! Chef Audrey makes, on average, 10 different filled ravioli at any given time. From truffled mushroom to the seasonal pumpkin-parmesan and a three-cheese with fresh-made mozzarella, parmesan reggiano and calabro ricotta. The house sauce is also a must have… the secret we’re told is 100% San Marzano tomatoes.

Mangia, mangia!

The Vibe: Sophisticated and beach-elegant.

The Must Have: Take your pick: handmade bespoke artisan jewelry by David Aubrey, ceramic vessels decorated with flowing sculptures of sea creatures

by Shayne Greco, and Voluspa candles which are poured with a luxurious, extremely clean-burning, coconut wax blend, in luscious scents. Aka, items that will make you want to be home for the holidays.

The Vibe: Fun (the good, clean kind...).

The Must Have: A snuggly robe that’ll make you want to curl up in front of the fire. Bamboo kimono-style robes are luxurious by nature, and softer than silk.

They wick moisture away, and they’ll keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. Priced at $85.

Then check out the other imported and locally made bath and body products in this gem of a store.

Cotton Company

Henry’s Jewelry

Happy Baby

Louisa’s Chocolate Bar

The Original Fudge Kitchen

517 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

407 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

405 WEST PERRY STREET

JACKSON STREET, CAPE MAY

The Vibe: Inclusive. This place is fashion for all, clothing that inspires your everyday style.

The Must Have: Clothes from a cool, reputable brand, like Tribal, Lyssé, JAG Jeans, SAXX, Columbia, Patagonia, and Vineyard Vines. This is one-stop shopping for men and women, which means less stress for you this holiday season. And who couldn’t use a little less shopping-related stress?

The Vibe: Celebratory!

The friendly staff here are excited to help you celebrate life, family and love.

The Must Have: The ABCs! A is for Alex & Ani holiday gift sets that will help you ALWAYS believe in Christmas. B is for BRINGING Christmas and winter sparkle with seasonal Pandora. And C is for CAPE May-themed jewelry, seen here. The best beach tags aren’t made of plastic...

The Vibe: Charming and eco-friendly.

The Must Have: These soft-as-a-baby’s bottom PJs are on-point for Christmas Eve bedtime wear. Made

by Feather Baby, they will start your baby off on a good tradition because everyone knows Santa is most impressed with stylish pajamas and nightwear.

Bonus, baby is ready to go Christmas morning for all those photos and videos you will be taking.

The Vibe: Sweet!

The Must Have: The famous Mast Brothers mini-chocolate bars made in Brooklyn make great stocking stuffers... with beautiful wrappers and unique flavors like almond butter, olive oil, goat milk, and maple and smoke.

Leave them out for Santa instead of the usual ho-hum cookie plate, and you’re practically guaranteed better gifts. Now that’s sweet.

513 WASHINGTON STREET MALL, AND CAPE MAY PROMENADE

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The Vibe: Old-fashioned, and delicious.

The Must Have: The seaside sweets, fudge and saltwater taffy are great, but with the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays peeking around the corner, a must-have is the delicious pumpkin pie fudge. Or check out the famous chocolate-filled Christmas straws and newest fudge flavor: vanilla or chocolate sea salt caramel.

a cape may moment

Masquerade Ball at Congress Hall Ballroom on October 29. Aleksey Moryakov

33 Perry Street  Congress Hall  Washington Commons Mall  victoriousincapemay.com

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West End Garage

Casale’s Shoes

Galvanic

A Place On Earth

Makers Making

484 WEST PERRY STREET

415 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

514 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

526 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

418 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

The Vibe: Exciting. That’s what happens when when some of the best Cape May shopping comes together under one roof.

The Must Have: Whatever treasure you discover! With over 50 stores represented here, you’ll find antiques, vintage and repurposed items, art, clothing, artisanal food products, and so much more. The West End Garage is an eclectic place. But don’t take our word for it... go exploring!

The Vibe: Sole-ful. These guys have been serving vacationing feet for more than 55 years.

The Must Have: The Ugg sheep wool-lined slippers are great for wintry months spent binge watching the latest Netflix original.

Priced at $110 and available in grey or au natural, they’re sized 6-10. They are like a soft blanket around your feet. All you need is a mug of hot chocolate and a warm fire...

The Vibe: Rustic-industrial.

They carry handpicked quality clothing, accessories, and home goods for men.

The Must Have: The coveted Red Wing, Heritage Moc-Toe Limited Edition Boot with black sole. Made in the US, they’re only available from a handful of vendors and guess what?

Galvanic is your go-to place for this holiday Must Have in Cape May. Priced at $270.

The Vibe: Revitalizing. The handmade body products here are packaged to please and refresh the senses.

The Must Have: Body Butter! This rich, creamy body spread is made with pure shea butter. Your skin will say, “Ahhh…” It’s available in a variety of scents, including coconutlemongrass. At $19.95, it’s a big experience for a small amount of money. Pick one up for your own stocking... your senses will thank you.

The Vibe: Looks like it’s been transported here from Brooklyn. Read: This is a little shop full of fine crafts and clever designs.

The Must Have: An exquisite, handmade backgammon board for playing the oldest board game in the world. Made in Los Angeles by Wolfum, the look and feel of the board alone will tempt you to give it a place of honor on your coffee table, though you should play, too! Price:

Cape Atlantic Books

Lace Silhouettes

Victorious

Sunset Beach Gift Shops

Cape May Artists Co-op

412 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

429 WASHINGTON STREET MALL

SUNSET BOULEVARD

122-124 SUNSET BOULEVARD

The Vibe: Bibliophile friendly.

The Must Have: A hardcover collector’s edition of Hamilton: The Revolution for $45. From Tony Awardwinning composer-lyriciststar Lin-Manuel Miranda comes a backstage pass to his groundbreaking, hit musical Hamilton. For the younger crowd: the illustrated version of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Best seller? Killing the Rising Sun.

The Vibe: Intimate.

The Must Have: Don’t get befuddled, boys. Ask for one or more of these lovely undergarments and you’re sure to make that special lady very merry: Wacoal - La Femme Bra; Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Bra; Chantelle - C Magnifique Minimizer Bra; Natori - Feathers Bra; Natori Sublime T-shirt Bra. And how about a Hanky Panky Lace Panty or, even better, a Cosa Bella Hottie Panty?

CONGRESS HALL HOTEL, THE PINK HOUSE, WASHINGTON COMMONS SHOPS

The Vibe: Delightfully beachy. The gifts, gadgets, souvenirs and housewares here will mak you smile.

The Must Have: A Cape May Diamond is definitely a must-have. Unique to Cape May Point and the beaches near the concrete sunken ship, this gem comes from a natural stone. It is pure quartz crystal and can be found in the sand on Sunset Beach in the form of a white frosted pebble. Also, check out the wall of sea shells.

The Vibe: Inspiring. This co-operative art gallery sells local artists’ creations.

The Must Have: A watercolor by Cape Maybased artist Lou Riccio is the perfect gift for someone who loves Cape May. And who doesn’t? Riccio specializes in watercolors of favorite local vistas.

Imagine a Riccio painting of the Lobster House or the Chalfonte Hotel on your wall or in the home of a special friend.

The Vibe: Chic.

The Must Have: A pair of diamond studs. One full carat of diamonds are set in the timeless, fourprong, 14kt, white-gold setting. Priced at $2,200.

Or, something unique and absolutely one-of-a-kind for popping the big question is an Art Deco engagement ring. It’s an 18kt white-gold, filigree ring with a .33ct old cut diamond. And the price is unbelievable at $840.

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Great Holiday Gift Ideas!

Inspired by Nature... Beautiful Home and Garden Decor for You and the Birds.

handmade chocolate, roasted nuts, gummy candies and more!

109 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May (609) 898-8871 • birdhouseofcapemay.com Also, visit us at West End Garage!

321 Washington Street Mall, Cape May

Make Her Holiday Sparkle!

OPEN ALL YEAR 318 Washington Street Mall 609-884-9234

bathtimecapemay.com

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Exclusive Area Retailer of holidays

2016

How to have the coolest CapeMay Christmas from feasting to decorating, movie-watching to pie-baking, we asked local experts to give us their top tips for the happiest holiday season, like ever! by diane stopyra

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HOW TO

Make the best hot chocolate During the holiday season, Congress Hall transforms into Winter Wonderland, Cape May’s version of Rockefeller Center and Union Square holiday market.

The tree — more than 30 feet tall with upwards of 9,000 lights — usually gets the most airtime, along with an artisanal shopping village around the pool. But the real star of the show might just be the hot chocolate. “It brings back memories,” says ROZ JOHNSON, who managed the hotel’s coffee shop, Tommy’s Folly, for 10 years, and perfected the hot chocolate recipe. “It reminds you of ice skating as a kid or, maybe, visiting grandma. Her sugar cookies always tasted so much better with a sip of hot chocolate. How it feels going down… that’s always so comforting.” We asked Roz for her best hot chocolate-making tips, so you can feel that same rush of nostalgia...

The secret: Use Ghiradelli pure cocoa as a base. A three-pound tin will cost you $13, but it’s worth the splurge.

The ratio: It’s one-third cocoa to two-thirds milk. And make sure it’s whole milk.

Or, as Roz says, “If you’re going to indulge, you need to go all the way.”

The heat: It’s best to use a steamer on your milk or, if you don’t have one, use a double-boiler method — bring a large pot of water to a boil on the stove while the milk heats up in a smaller pot placed inside. This way, it won’t scald.

The topping: You could top off your drink with marshmallows, but homemade whipped cream will give your coca that little extra oomph. Two tablespoons of sugar whisked with one cup of heavy whipping cream should do the trick.

The final product: Opt for an enamel mug, which radiates heat. Then, grab a hold with everything you’ve got. Says Roz, “As you’re thinking about those holiday memories, and you really want to hold them close to you, it’s best to embrace your hot chocolate with both hands.”

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HOW TO

Enjoy the ultimate movie lineup It’s more predictable than angels getting their wings every time a bell rings: right around this time each year, you’re overcome with the urge to cuddle up with a warm hot chocolate (see previous page!) and watch a marathon of holiday films.

But how to choose? TOM SIMS, author of Flix You Missed: More than 100 Movies from the Past 10 Years You (Probably) Didn’t See, Executive Director of Cape May Film Festival and Exit Zero movie columnist — has taken away the guesswork with this list of 10 must-see holiday movies. Some you might be expecting, others are likely to surprise you. Now, all that’s left to do is prepare the popcorn (or steal it off the tree… we won’t tell). exit zero

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THE BISHOP’S WIFE (1947) Released a year after It’s a Wonderful Life and while not nearly as iconic, it’s still worth the watch. An angel (Cary Grant) comes from heaven at Christmas to help the bishop (David Niven) and his wife (Loretta Young) rekindle their romance.

DIE HARD (1988) With stuff blowing up and countless rounds of machine gun fire, this ain’t no Hallmark movie. Bruce Willis is a resourceful cop determined to stop a violent hostage situation at a holiday party.

A little dated, but still compelling. Others in this weirdly festive (even though they shouldn’t be) category are Lethal Weapon (1987), Batman Returns (1992) and Eyes Wide Shut (1999).

JOYEUX NOEL (2005) A French feature film about the truce that was called on Christmas day during World War I, allowing the British and Germans to play a soccer game. Also, Cape May Film Festival showed a wonderful short called Winter of 1914 that is worth seeking online.

TOY STORY THAT TIME FORGOT (2014) This short film centered on the holidays has all the star power (Tom Hanks, Tim Allen), the fun, and the depth you find in the Toy Story trilogy. A great addition to the series. Of course, there’s more than one animated classic. See also: A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966).

A SENTIMENTAL SAMPLER How can you pick just one?! Be prepared to weep happily during About a Boy (2002), The Holiday (2006), Love Actually (2003). One step above Hallmark… okay, maybe barely.

THE NATIVITY STORY (2006): From the director of Twilight and Thirteen, Catherine Hardwicke, comes a contemporary imagining of the greatest story ever told.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL From muppets and musicals, Alastair Sim to George C. Scott, there are no less than 50 versions to choose from. Cape May Film Festival leaders Dottie and Mal Knapp say give the Scott version another look. My personal favorite is Scrooged (1988), where Bill Murray is in his own sort of Christmas Carol nightmare.

A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983) You’ll shoot your eye out, kid! A must-see at least once during the season.

ELF (2003) This one may require more than one viewing as you digest that big holiday meal — but go easy on the syrup!

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946) It’s on my list of top 10 movies of all time (let alone holiday flix), so how could I not include it? Grab a box of tissues and remember why we’re all here on planet Earth! exit zero

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HOW TO

Hang your holiday lights Sure, it sounds simple, but look what happened to Clark Griswold.

When it comes to decking the outside of your house in holiday lights, according to local electrician BILL “BUZZ” HEINKEL, “you’d be surprised how much there is to it.”

Presenting: His best tips and tricks for making it through the season, electrocution free.

The Do List

only use them as listed and described.

DO Use only UL-listed lights and extension cords and make sure the lights and cords are listed for use OUTDOORS. DO Plug your lights into a functioning GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) receptacle only.

DO Have someone assist you with setting up or moving a ladder, if required. And if you are working up high, it’s always good to have someone close by in case you find yourself in trouble.

DO Wrap any plug ends or connections with electric tape to help keep out water and prevent shocks.

DO Use fiberglass ladders if you’re going to be anywhere near the power lines which feed your home or your neighbor’s house. You could get seriously injured or killed if you or the ladder touches the wires.

DO Pay close attention to warning labels on your lights and

DO Use extreme caution when using metal gutter poles for

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The Don’t List

DON’T Overload your home’s electrical circuits. If you’re tripping a breaker, try plugging half your lights into another outside circuit.

DON’T Try to force a GFCI receptacle to reset. It probably won’t reset because it’s doing what It was meant to do — protect you. Repeatedly forcing it to reset could damage it, costing you money. If the GFCI doesn’t reset, try unplugging your lights and see if it resets then. If this fails, you’ll need to have the receptacle replaced. If it does reset, there’s a problem with your lights or there’s water in your plug connections. Let your wires dry out before plugging them back in.

DON’T Use frayed or worn sets. Check each set for displaced (pulled out) wires and broken bulbs. Replace broken bulbs or the entire set. Broken bulbs and pulled out wires can shock you.

DON’T Exceed the manufacturer’s limits on connected sets.

If it says “connect only three sets,” don’t connect four. This is dangerous, and you’re risking the chance of blowing the little fuse in the plug ends.

assistance in putting up lights, especially near your electric service or the power lines coming from the pole to your house.

You could get seriously injured or killed if a pole touches the wires.

DO Consider slowly changing your old existing incandescent light sets over to new LED lights. LEDs are easier on your wallet, better for the environment and have come down consider-

DON’T Plug inflatable light displays into the end of a string light set. You will overload the small wiring and cause a fire or shock hazard. All string light sets are only meant to have similar string light sets plugged into them. Run a separate cord for your inflatable displays.

DON’T Attach string light sets to metal fences. A frayed wire or broken bulb could come in contact with the fence and electrify that portion of the fence.

DON’T Attach string lights directly to any metal or metal rain gutters. Always use plastic gutter clips which are UL-listed.

ably in price. Some stores even offer discounts or trade-ins for your old incandescent light sets. exit zero

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HOW TO

Make the tastiest Christmas ham Gaiss’ Market in the Villas has been an institution since 1928, and their award-winning meats will put the merry in your Christmas.

Just don’t tell Gaiss’ fanatical following we spilled the beans — this is one secret spot locals love to keep for themselves. Another sweet secret? This ham glaze recipe from Gaiss’ owner KATHY LOUDERBACK, who runs the shop with her husband JOHN. Happy carving!

ingredients Fully cooked boneless ham (5-7 pounds) 2 tablespoons cloves 1 cup honey 1 can ginger ale 1/4 cup grainy brown mustard 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

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directions Preheat oven to 325 F Score surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about 1/8 inch deep.

Stud top of ham with the cloves, then put it in a roasting pan with a rack, tent it with foil and bake for one hour.

Heat the honey, ginger ale, mustard and vinegar in a small saucepan until bubbly.

Cook until reduced and a bit thicker, 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove the foil and brush the glaze on the ham. Return it to the oven for 15 minutes. Repeat once more.

Remove from the oven and let it rest/ cool slightly.

HOW TO

Make the best wassail Yes, wassailing was a medieval ritual that involved singing to trees in the west of England in order to ensure a robust apple harvest. And no, a healthy apple harvest is not likely top-of-mind for most of us today. But this doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy a tasty cup of the hot mulled cider punch which HISTORIC COLD SPRING VILLAGE serves every year at their annual Wassail Day, December 3 from 11am-3pm. We’ve included their recipe for you here. It’s so good, it may even inspire you to serenade the trees. ingredients 2 quarts apple cider 2 cups cranberry juice 1 juice orange sliced in 1/4-inch pieces or 1/2 cup orange juice 5 cloves or 1/4 tsp cloves 2 cinnamon sticks or 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon Thumb of fresh ginger cut into thin slices or 1/2 tsp ground ginger 1/4 of a nutmeg or 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg directions Put cider and juice in a pot. Add oranges slices. If using whole spices, place them in a spice bag otherwise add ground spices.

Stir and heat till simmering.

Serve warm. If using modern conveniences, a slow cooker works well.

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HOW TO

Create the Feast of the Seven Fishes That wonderful Italian-American tradition — the Feast of the Seven Fishes, in which seven fish dishes are served to celebrate Christmas Eve — is a seafood lover’s dream. It’s also a big commitment. We reached out to SUE LAUDEMAN of THE LOBSTER HOUSE for her recommendation for a delectable and varied lineup. “Here are two lists,” she reported back. “One for people who’d rather have all the work done for them, and one for the cooks!” Everything you see here will be available at the Lobster House seafood market just in time for the holiday. (And yes, we know there’s more than seven on each list… have fun mixing and matching!)

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THE COOK’S LIST Fresh and available for favorite recipes Scallops (fresh, local from Lobster House boats) Lobster (local and New England) Flounder (local or New England, depending on which waters are open for fishing) Never-frozen shrimp (available weekly from Florida) Cod (both fresh and salt cod, is a seven-fishes staple) Fresh tuna or swordfish (locally caught or imported) Bluefish (local) Clams (local or East Coast sourced) Oysters (local, but other areas also available) Mussels (from Maine) Stone crab claws (local)

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THE LAZY LIST Prepared in house by Lobster House, and ready to heat Salads: Lobster, shrimp, whitefish Clam chowder Snapper soup Lobster bisque Cooked shrimp (for shrimp cocktail) Cocktail claws/crab fingers Deviled clams Stuffed shrimp Crab imperial Crab au gratin Clams casino BBQ clams Oysters rockefeller

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HOW TO

Decorate tastefully and dramatically

VIVIANE ROWAN, owner of White on Ocean Street, has been an interior designer for more than two decades. (If you’ve visited the Washington Inn recently, you’ve seen some of her handiwork.)

In that time, she’s learned a thing or two about decking halls with boughs of holly (and pine and bayberry). Here, she offers some pro tips for curating a tastefully festive home.

Don’t break the bank You could spend a fortune on faux woodland garland intertwined with whimsical handblown baubles, or you could save that money for a killer New Year’s outfit and go outside for your greens. Think holly trees with red berries.

Exquisite magnolias. Pine cones and boughs. Bayberries. It’s all available in Cape May. Or consider taking Thanksgiving pumpkins and gourds and spray painting them silver and gold, or a color to match your décor. Homemade pomanders with oranges and cloves are fragrant and beautiful as well. Since we live on the coast, add shells, sea grass and beach glass to your design. Driftwood can be used in a variety of ways to showcase ornaments or wired ribbon.

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place large hurricane candles in the center.

Think beyond red and green Your tree should be varying shades of the colors in the room. In my shop we use silvers, golds and whites, emphasizing sparkle. We vary textures, like fur and raw wood, for contrast and to evoke warmth and comfort. A trick of the trade is hanging favorite ornaments from a fishing line in front of windows and from ceilings.

Lighting is everything Candlelight is the warmest, loveliest form of illumination and should be used abundantly. Tapers, pillars, tea lights and electric candles should be everywhere. Small white Christmas lights are my preference, but the retro large bulbs work as well. String lights with Edison bulbs look wonderful in industrial environments. Use lighting in unusual places to highlight and help with the sparkle of the season.

Make it personal Ornaments that are passed down, photos of past holidays with family members, recipes shared over the years... it all becomes part of your holiday tradition, and design. Take a breath and enjoy! holidays

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Celebrate American Artisans

324 WASHINGTON STREET MALL, CAPE MAY

Find Your Way Back...

CAPE MAY

Latitude/Longitude Jewelry, Charms & Keychains

Feel good. Live well.

JACKSON & CARPENTER’S goodscentscapemay.com exit zero

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HOW TO

Bake the perfect pie

When JANIS QUIGLE’s son Jim was five years old, he asked his mother why there were never any pies for him on the table — he was not a fan of the traditional holiday options like apple and pumpkin. So Janis, owner of WEST CAPE MAY’S Q BAKERY, came up with something her son would enjoy: Bavarian chocolate pie made with an unlikely ingredient, chocolate pudding. Jim, manager of Rio Station restaurant, is now 31 years old, but he still loves this Thanksgiving and Christmas tradition — in fact, the whole family does. “People fight over it,” Janis says. “It’s creamy — not light and not heavy. And the walnuts on top give it a nice texture.” We’ve included the recipe for you here (it looks more complicated on paper than it is to make), or order one from Q at 609-206-3857. Best to call by November 18 if you want it in time for Thanksgiving. ingredients Pie shell — this will make two, 8-inch pie shells 1 cup all-purpose flour, slight* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, slight* 1/2 cup Crisco vegetable shortening, plus** 3 tablespoons water pie filling 1 package of chocolate jello pudding and pie filling, 5.1-ounce size. This must be the cook and serve variety, not the Instant one.

1 package of chocolate jello pudding and pie filling, 3.4 ounce size. As above, this also must be the cook and serve variety, not the instant one.

5 cups total of whole milk to make the above packages of pudding mix. pie topping 1/2 to 3/4 cup chopped walnuts * Slight means that you measure the flour just slightly under a cup and just slightly under a half cup. ** Plus means that you would measure the shortening a cup, plus a little extra.

To make crust Put all the flour in a mixing bowl, add shortening and water. With a large dinner fork, mix the ingredients until you have a moist but still crumbly dough.

You might need to add a little more water to get the right texture. Form the dough into a loose ball and cut in half. Set aside one half to use to make another pie shell which you can freeze. Form the dough into a smooth flat disk and place on a wellfloured board. Sprinkle flour on top and roll your dough out flat until you can place your pie pan upside down on it and have about an inch extra all around. Fold the dough in half, place it in half of the pie pan, open dough, covering the bottom of the pan. Turn the extra inch of dough under all the way around the pie and crimp to make a thick edge for your pie crust.

To bake crust Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Pierce the bottom of the pie crust to let the steam escape so your bottom will not bubble up. Chill the dough in the freezer for about half an hour. Weight your pie crust down by pressing a sheet of aluminum foil in the bottom and folding the corners toward the center to expose your crimp. This will also help prevent bubbling and shrinking. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake until the edges are golden brown, maybe as much as 10 more minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

To fill your pie Chop your walnuts and keep them handy. Make the large package of pudding according to directions for a pie, on the box, making sure you let it cool for five minutes, stirring it a couple times. Pour it into the shell. This box alone will not be enough to fill the pie. Make the small box of pudding, doing the same cooling/stirring process. Just pour this pudding on top of the pudding already in the pie shell, filling it to the top close to the crimp. You will have some pudding lef tover.

Sprinkle the walnuts on the top of the pie. I like to put it around the outside edge, leaving the center clear. Cool the pie for about a half an hour then place in the refrigerator to chill thoroughly. I like to make this pie the day before I serve it.

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HOW TO

Write the perfect holiday card

It’s the season of giving, and SUSAN TISCHLER is Exit Zero’s resident giver — of sage advice. You know her as The Answer Lady — every week, she tackles your questions on love, life and etiquette. So it’s only appropriate we’d turn to her for a list of common Christmas card queries (say that after 10 swigs of eggnog).

okay, or should they be personalized?

When those letters turn into a long list of your family’s accomplishments, you run the risk of making your recipient feel bad. On the other hand, I love receiving photo cards. That’s what tells me your family is all right — I can see for myself how much the kids have grown.

Go to a local photographer like Mary Pat Myers, and she’ll do a beautiful job.

like the kids in front of the tree in their ugly Christmas sweaters. But you need to be mindful and judge it case by case.

E-cards: Yay or nay? For wedding invitations, go old-school paper. But for birthdays, anniversaries and especially holiday cards, I see nothing wrong with e-cards. There’s something nice about the immediacy. I’m a big fan of Blue Mountain, which allows you to create animated versions.

Often, those photos have Christmassy borders, like reindeers or elves. Is it okay to send these to friends or family who don’t celebrate Christmas? You need to be sensitive. Sending a card or note is like entertaining an audience.

You should think about how it’s going to be received. I don’t see anything wrong with a winter scene. And you can get away with most anything if it’s funny —

If you’re busy or broke or just a holiday Grinch, do you have to send them at all? If you don’t send them, don’t expect to receive them.

Some people write up one letter and send it to everyone on their list. Is that

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What’s the sweet spot for mailing?

Between December 1 and 5, so they get there by December 10.

What’s the biggest mistake people make with holiday cards? Not allowing enough time. It’s a labor of love.

Is there anything special you can do to make your card stand out from the stack? If you make it yourself, that’s very personal and extremely thoughtful.

In that case, the card becomes the gift.

MaryAnn’s CONTEMPORARY

& ESTATE JEWELRY

Set in 14kt white gold, with 10.44 carats of emeralds and 7.52 carats of diamonds 511 WASHINGTON STREET MALL, CAPE MAY (NEXT TO FUDGE KITCHEN) • 609-898-8786 Also at: 15 N. Black Horse Pike, Runnemede • 856-939-0230

Real Books for Real People

A must for every beach lover!

cape atLantic Book company OPEN @ 10am Please call for Fall hours

Photographer Kathy Fallon’s gorgeous coffee table book is a love letter to the ocean and the beach. A Coastal Journey is filled with compelling, inspiring photography from Cape May, the Wildwoods and the Outer Banks.

City Centre Mall 2nd floor Washington Street Mall, Cape May (609) 846-7688 capeatlanticbookcompany.com

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Available from the Exit Zero Stores at 109 Sunset and 316 Beach, along with Whale’s Tale, Good Scents and Cape Atlantic Books.

Or buy online at ezstore.us/books

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a cape may moment

The 5K Masters at the second annual Step It Up run at Lower Cape May Regional on October 16. Aleksey Moryakov

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Cape May’s funkiest shirts!

The Flying Fish 130 PARK BLVD, WEST CAPE MAY OPEN THURSDAY TO MONDAY @ 10AM exit zero

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WANTED: LOVING humanS FOR AWESOME ANIMALS Meet Quincy, Laser, Kylo Ren, Chance, Cindy, Lexus and Sophie... seven adorable dogs from Cape May County Animal Shelter who are looking for a second chance. If you would like to meet any of these beautiful guys, call the shelter at 609-465-8923.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEKSEY MORYAKOV

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Quincy A young shepherd and terrier mix male who loves attention and affection. His soft eyes beg for an energetic walk or a romp in the yard. Quincy already knows how to sit when asked and is eager to learn other good behavior cues. His happy smile lights up his face when he receives praise for performing a requested task. Quincy would prefer to be the only furry companion in a home. Have children? No problem — he’s great around kids.

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Laser This adorable German shepherd is one very smart boy — he will sit and lay down when asked. In his previous home, he lived with a cat and another dog, but here at the shelter Laser seems a little too stressed to make many friends and he would be best suited to an adult house with no kids. When the weather is nice, he likes to play in a baby pool. Once he knows someone and can relax, Laser will lie comfortably at your feet. exit zero

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Kylo Ren He may be a senior labrador mix but Kylo Ren has a lot of energy left.

His favorite thing to do at the shelter is to play fetch in the yard with his beloved tennis ball. He walks very nicely on a leash and knows directions like sit and paw. A well-mannered, loving gentleman.

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Chance This border collie mix is still nervous around new people, but with some baby talk, and some food, he does try to form a bond! Chance would do best in a home with older children that will give him time and space to acclimate. With other animals, he prefers a very slow introduction.

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Cindy This pit bull and terrier mix has been in a home for eight years after her family moved away and left her behind. With a little less skip in her step, naps are her friend when people used to be. Cindy was adopted once and she would love to do it again. She may be older (11 years) and she’s not the prettiest girl, but she’s a love bug and she’s hoping someone will find it in their heart to take her home again.

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Lexus This cute little shih tzu is at the shelter with her sister Porscha. Lexus is a senior but still loves to play and be petted. She loves walks and will fit into any home — she’s great around kids and other dogs and even cats. All she needs is love!

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Sophie A loving family dog who will happily settle down with other animals (even cats) and kids. This well-rounded nine-year-old can be a little shy at first, but once she gets to know you, the tail-wagging machine goes into high gear — along with the nudges that say, “Please pet me!”

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a cape may moment

TEDx Cape May curator Norris Clark introduces the 2016 event, at the The Paul Schmidtchen Theater at Lower Cape Regional in October. Aleksey Moryakov

at Congress Hall

SIMPLE PLEASURES FROM THE SEA

Gift Cards available (609) 884-6543 | seaspa.congresshall.com exit zero

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a cape may moment

The 5 West Crew at the Negro family fall employee party on October 16. Aleksey Moryakov

The Perfect Escape Make a date with the Cape May Day Spa and treat your body to an uplifting, luxurious spa experience.

THE

DAY SPA & HOLISTIC CENTER

The Cape May Day Spa is a full-service spa offering state-of-the-art spa services in a tranquil, richly-appointed ambiance of total comfort.

Massages • Facials • Manicures Pedicures • Baths & Body Treatments

Book your appointment today by calling 609.898.1003.

607 Jefferson Street • Cape May, NJ www.CapeMayDaySpa.com

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A must for every beach lover!

Photographer Kathy Fallon’s gorgeous coffee table book is a love letter to the ocean and the beach. A Coastal Journey is filled with compelling, inspiring photography from Cape May, the Wildwoods and the Outer Banks.

Available from the Exit Zero Stores at 109 Sunset and 316 Beach, along with Whale’s Tale, Good Scents and Cape Atlantic Book Company.

Or buy online at ezstore.us/books

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GIVE THE GIFT OF MORE SUMMER THE BOARDWALK

WILDWOODS, NJ moreyspiers.com

THE DEFINITIVE TROLLEY GUIDE If you haven’t seen those cute trolleys rolling through the streets of Cape May then there are one of two explanations: Either you’re really not paying attention, or this is your first time visiting America’s Original Seaside Resort. In any event, here is a handy guide that tells you the what, when and why of trolley tours. For even MORE information, get in touch with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities, who run the trolleys, as well as very many other fun things in Cape May. Visit them at capemaymac.org.

Ghosts of Christmas past Where It Goes: Through the beautiful, historic streets of Cape May. Tour leaves from the Ocean Street trolley stop, Washington Street Mall at Ocean Street — except on Saturday, November 19, when it leaves from the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street.

toric streets of Cape May. You’ll be happy you live now, not then.

Who It’s For: If you look for Jacob Marley’s ghost in every door knocker, you’ll appreciate this tour.

Strongly Suggested: Make reservations.

How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes.

When It Runs: Offered Fridays from November 25 to December 30; Saturdays from November 19-26, December 31; Sundays from November 27 to December 18; Monday, December 26 to Thursday, December 29. Hours vary.

What It Is: Listen to dramatic tales of Christmas woe featuring Victorian ghosts, told by a member of the East Lynne Theater Company, on this ride along the his-

Historic District Where It Goes: Through Cape May’s historic district.

How Long It Lasts: About 45 minutes.

When It Runs: Daily (except November 24 and December 25) at various times.

What It Is: It’s beautiful. It’s charming.

Cape May — one of the few places you can wander through and feel that it’s more than 100 years ago. Tour guides will explain how and why it survived.

Who It’s For: Anyone and everyone who finds Cape May charming.

Insider Tip: Combine with a guided tour of the 1879 Physick Estate and save $2.

Cherishing Life’s Moments

Serving Cape May & Lower Township 609-884-3793 spilkerfuneralhome.com DENNIS J. SPILKER Manager/Funeral Director NJ # 4038 DAVID M. DANAHER Funeral Director NJ # 3285 KEVIN J. BEARE Funeral Director NJ # 3806

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Christine Peck

Lou Riccio

FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

WATERCOLOR

Mary Stewart

Michael Terenik

ONE of a KIND THINGS WEARABLE ART

WOODWORKING UTILITARIAN DESIGN 122 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May 609.435.5253 • capemayartistcoop.com

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 the definitive cape may trolley guide

3400 Shore Drive Cape May Beach

Craftsman Style Cape Cod Across from the Bay

302 Stites Avenue Cape May Point

“Chasing Rainbows” Victorian Seashore Cottage

402 Lincoln Avenue Cape May Point

Dr. Issac S. Fogg Cottage

1001 St. James Place Cape May Views of Meadows and Waterways

The Peter Shields Inn is one of many impressive beachfront properties you’ll see on the Mansions by the Sea tour

1 Eagle Court Lower Township

Custom Built Southern Colonial Home

1307 Beach Avenue #4 Cape May

Beachfront Condo w/Modern Feel with Historic Charm

717 Sunset Boulevard West Cape May

Private Estate on Two+ Acres

307 Alexander Avenue Cape May Point

“William Y. Heberton Cottage” Short Walk to Beach

Join Us: www.chrisclemanssir.com Christina P. Clemans Licensed Real Estate Broker 1159 Washington St. Cape May, NJ 08204 609-884-3332 Toll-free 800-828-9751 Visit Us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ exit zero

Holiday Lights Trolley Ride Where It Goes: Throughout historic Cape May. Trolley leaves from the Ocean Street Trolley Stop, Washington Street Mall at Ocean Street, except for the November 19 trolley rides, which leave from the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street.

How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes.

When It Runs: Offered Fridays from November 25 to December 30; Saturdays from November 19-26, December 31; Sundays from November 27 to December 18; Mondays through Thursdays, November 28 to December 8, December 13-22, 26-29. Hours vary.

What It Is: Who can resist the twinkle of Cape May’s beautiful Victorian homes decorated for Christmas? This trolley ride through town is sparkly delight. Listen to Christmas music and sing carols along the way and have a jolly time with friends and family.

Who It’s For: If Christmas makes you want to hold hands around a Christmas tree like in Whoville and sing! Accessible with advance notice.

Santa’s Trolley Rides Where It Goes: Leaves from Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street (with free parking available) and rides through town How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes When It Runs: Saturdays, November 19, 26, December 3, 10 and 17; Sundays on November 27, December 4, 11 and 18. Hours vary.

What It Is: Mrs Claus comes direct from the North Pole to lead this tour. She tells stories and leads holiday songs on this jolly trolley ride through town. Oh — and she brought her hubby with her. Santa is at the Carriage House organizing lists with his iPad and eating a few cookies to carb load before Christmas. Children will visit with Santa and get a sweet treat!

Who It’s For: You must — simply must — believe in Santa Claus.

If you don’t, after this ride, you just might.

Strongly Suggested: Make reservations.

The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) is a notfor-profit committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation and cultural enrichment of Cape May. Visit capemaymac.org.

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Vacation Home Owners!

Vacation Home Renters!

Rent Your Proper ty with Homestead Real Est ate

Are You Interested in Saving Up to 3% on Next Year’s Vacation Rental?

We accept Credit Cards at NO COST to You OR Your Guests The ONLY AGENCY Offering Online Reservations

Book with Homestead Real Estate

WE PAY YOUR CREDIT CARD FEES!

We are #1 for Cape May Rental Google Searches

R e n ta l s C a p e M ay. c o m

502 Bank St. Cape May, NJ

609.884.1888

A Sampling of Our Listings

915 Columbia | Cape May 5 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths Great Home on DEEP Lot $975,000

702 Foster | Lower Twp. 3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Baths New Build South of Canal $759,000

704 Foster | Lower Twp. 2 Bedrooms | 2.5 Baths New Build South of Canal $649,000

List AND SELL Your Home with Homestead Real Estate The #1 Success Rate for Listings SOLD in the Cape May Area

H o m e s t e a d C a p e M ay. c o m exit zero

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a cape may moment

Joan Reagan Dance Studio at Vincenzo’s Little Italy on October 29. Aleksey Moryakov

A healthy pet has lots to smile about.

Robert Panaccio, VMD Robert Moffatt, VMD Nancy Reilly, VMD 694 Petticoat Creek Lane, Cape May • 884-1729 • www.capemayvet.com

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1204 New York Ave., Cape May 3-story home just 2 blocks to beach; 7 brms, 2.5 baths, living room with f/p, dining room, gas heat, grand open front porch. $859,000

4 E. New York Avenue, Villas Five-year new! 3 brm, 2 bath home in move-in condition on large lot, gas heat, central a/c, maintenance-free vinyl exterior. $169,900

308 Congress Street, Cape May, Unit #1: 2.5 blocks to beach and mall, this 2 brm, 1 bath condo is convenient to everything and has a good rental history. Off-street parking and a large screened porch. $309,500

1508 New York Avenue, Cape May Custom 4,000+ sq ft home with 6 brms, 4.5 baths, great room, fabulous kitchen, game room, media room, office, exercise room, 3 levels of balconies, 3 gas fireplaces. In-ground pool and so much more. $2,099,000

1107 New Jersey Ave., Cape May 1 block to beach, new construction 2,000 sq ft custom home has 4 brms, 3.5 baths with all of the bells and whistles. Call for more details. $1,495,000

620 Hughes Street, Cape May In the center of town, this historic home is licensed for 4 units but could be used as a single-family home. Offers 6 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, formal living and dining rooms, sun porch and plenty of off-street parking. $999,999

512 WASHINGTON STREET MALL, CAPE MAY 609-884-8428 / 1-800-441-8428 www.cbcapemay.com Serving the Cape May area for 115 years for all of your Sale & Rental needs LYNN GLEESON/WILLIAM BEZAIRE, OWNERS exit zero

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We now accept credit cards

Property of the Month 416 Congress Street, Cape May

Turnkey property — ready to go! Luxury new construction with 2610 square feet of living space, open floor plan, large lot, with plenty of room to move around inside and out.

There is a large covered porch, open deck, with the builder’s 10-year homeowners’ warranty included. Great rental

potential and a great location, being just three blocks to the beach and the Washington Street Mall. There’s a large chef-quality kitchen, and all four bedrooms are masters.

The property also has plenty of storage.

Call today — asking $1,150,000.

For more information, contact James McBride of Coldwell Banker on 609-884-8428 or 609-408-3076 exit zero

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55+ Community

GARAGE

CUSTOM BUILT

BAY FRONT

1907 Tidewater Avenue Legacy of Cape May 3 BR, 2.5 BA - $324,900

421 Portsmouth Road, Tranquility, Lower Twp. 3 BR, 2.5 BA - $379,000

120 Avalon Road Townbank 4 BR, 2.5 BA - $489,500

301 Cardinal Avenue Villas 3 BR, 2 BA - $575,000

CLOSE TO BEACH

WATER VIEW

AMAZING VIEWS

Bay Front

309 Alexander Avenue Cape May Point 4 BR, 2 BA - $825,000

1849 Maryland Avenue Cape May 6 BR, 3.5 BA - $1,850,000

217 Alexander Avenue Cape May Point 5 BR, 4 BA - $1,995,000

2681 Bay Drive Cape May Beach 5 BR, 5.5 BA - $2,495,000

WE HAVE MOVED! NEW LOCATION AT 941 COLUMBIA AVENUE NEXT TO THE WATER TOWER.

(609) 884-5005 • www.CoastlineRealty.com

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May (next to the Water tower) Carol A. Menz - Broker/Owner, GRI, ABR, CRS, SRES, SFR, RSPS exit zero

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my perfect day Katie Repici, Exit Zero Operations Manager

M

Katie Repici, who took over as Operations Manager at Exit Zero last January, is a Cape May Court House native who has done a fair bit of traveling. Before graduating in 2008 from University of North Carolina Wilmington with a degree in English literature, she studied abroad in Australia. She’s spent time exploring (and surfing) throughout Fiji, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. And she’s done aid work in Africa, teaching Malawi children about the dangers of HIV/AIDS and deforestation. (During the latter trip, she slept in a tent that couldn’t be positioned too close to the next tent over; otherwise, elephants would not have room to pass and might trample.) Katie’s driven cross-country four times, and she’s lived and worked in Los Angeles, Brooklyn and Aspen. In other words: she’s no stranger to vibrant cities and exotic places. And yet, she’s happy to be putting down roots in genteel Cape May, where action comes in the form of rustling dune grass and migrating shorebirds, and trampling threats are few. “This place has so much character,” she says. “A Victorian village on the water. I’m happy to call it home.” So what does she do in her off time? Katie doesn’t enjoy the spotlight, so we harangued her into giving us the details of her perfect offseason day over cocktails in the Brown Room. exit zero

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y cat — who is named Stevie after Stevie Wonder, because she sways her head in a similar way ­— would wake me up early even on my perfect day.

It’s annoying, but she’s so cute, it’s hard to care.

First thing I’d do would be to check the waves and go for a surf wherever they were best — clean, chest-high and empty (except maybe for my friend Diane). Even though it’s the offseason, the water would be unseasonably warm despite the cool air, so I wouldn’t need a wetsuit.

Eventually, because it would be a beautiful day ­— brisk air and warm sunshine — my signifigant other would join me on the beach with coffee and breakfast from Cape May’s RSK doughnuts. I’d warm up in my comfy Exit Zero hoodie while doing The New York Times crossword — it may be dorky, but I’m obsessed.

Then we’d play a little frisbee.

After a while, we’d head back home to clean up. I’d take a long, hot outdoor shower, which always feels amazing when the air is cool.

Then I’d head out to pick up ingredients for lunch. My favorite is a caprese salad and Beach Plum Farm offers tasty tomatoes even in the off-season because of their greenhouses. After that, I’d take a power nap (I love naps).

In the late afternoon, we’d join friends and my two sisters at The Ebbitt Room to say hello to Helen behind the bar and enjoy some appetizers — Cape May Salt oysters and charcuterie — on the porch. It’s always beautifully decorated for the holidays. From there, we’d bike to Sunset Liquors where Katy O’Hara and Zach Smith would help us pick out a bottle of champagne, which we’d take with us to the top of the World War II Bunker near the Point — you have to do a spider monkey crawl to get up there, but the view makes it totally worth it. The sky would be a mess of spectacular pinks and reds.

By now, we’d be hungry, so we’d head to Peter Shields Inn for dinner. I’ve known Chef Carl since high school, so maybe I’ll convince him to make me prime rib and crabmeat.

Now, we’d stop by Winter Wonderland, which always puts you in the Christmas spirit.

Hopefully, the Bastard Sons of Captain Mey would be playing. Then it would be time to go dancing — anywhere with music! And when we got too tired, we’d call it a night... but not before falling asleep to National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. As Clark Griswold said, “The most enjoying traditions of the season are best enjoyed in the warm embrace of kith and kin.”

Exce ptional Quality

Inco me Producer Duplex

1604 New York Avenue Cape May 6 BR, 5.5 BA — $2,000,000

428 Congress Street Cape May 6 BR, 4 BA — $674,900

664 Suneset Boulevard Lower Township 4 BR, 3 BA — $1,450,000

New Construction

Canyon Club

303 Columbia Avenue Cape May 4 BR, 3.5 BA — $689,900

902 Ocean Drive, Unit 2 Lower Township 4 BR, 4.5 BA — $899,000

Con ven

n ient Locatio

508 Broad Street Cape May 4 BR, 2.5 BA — $799,000

3-Ac

re Private Estate

Open 7 Days a Week with our full-time professional Realtors & a fully dedicated rental team

JERSEY CAPE REALTY, Inc. Dolores Lanzalotti, Broker/Owner 739 Washington Street, Cape May (609) 884-5800 • JerseyCapeRealty.com

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picture of the month By Charles Riter

Email us the location of this picture and you could win a $75 gift certificate for Cape May Day Spa. You must write SANTA CONTEST in the subject field, and send it to info@exitzero.us. Tell us the name of the building Santa is propped on, and include your name and address. We will pick a winner randomly from the entries.

You need to email us by December 12.

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Plans for independent contractors, families, individuals and groups AT COMPETITIVE RATES

610-222-9400 www.millennium-tpa.com

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TASTE THE SEASON! HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE EBBITT ROOM. With a hearth to cozy up to on chilly evenings, and piano keys that twinkle up to the nighttime stars, our flavor extends well beyond your plate.

OPEN NIGHTLY | EARLY SEATING MENU | COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING RESERVATIONS 609.884.5700 | 25 JACKSON STREET | EBBITTROOM.COM

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