Fall issue with covers

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

FALL 2014

The Essence of Autumn

A MODERN MASTERPIECE IN MARGATE • REMEMBERING COMEDY LUMINARIES A VISIT TO GROUND ZERO • TEST YOUR NEW JERSEY KNOWLEDGE

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“The biggest emotion in creation is the bridge to optimism.”

—Brian May

THE • VIEW

The Bright Side

W

e’re not going to sugarcoat the stunning reversal of fortunes that have befallen Atlantic City. The closings of four casinos this year — three as of this writing and the possibility of a fifth in November — is virtually unprecedented in the business world.

Yet each time Atlantic City has been knocked on her heels during her 160-year history, she’s displayed a remarkable resiliency. She’s picked herself up, spit in the eye of adversity, and always found a way to reinvent herself. Those who write the resort’s premature obituary point to the loss of thousands of hotel rooms. We prefer to see the thousands of rooms that are not only still open but, in many cases, are being upgraded.

Entertainment? On most weekends, the Borgata alone offers more “name” artists in its two performing venues than casinos in other states offer in months. Under its new operator, Global Spectrum, Boardwalk Hall will be stepping up its policy of presenting some of the world’s top touring shows.

Hungry? There are at least 70 dining outlets alone in Atlantic City’s casinos (and 100 or more outside the gaming resorts) that offer an international array of cuisine, overseen in some cases by “Iron Chefs” of TV Food Network fame. Wolfgang Puck and Bobby Flay have their own restaurants at Borgata. Guy Fieri isn’t an Iron Chef, but he may be the most popular and visible face of the food channel, and his new Chop House at Bally’s has been filled since it opened over the summer.

Shopping? The Walk, in the heart of the city, has more than 100 outlet stores and will soon become a destination-within-a-destination when the Bass Pro Shop opens.

From May through October — traditionally beach time — visitors don’t have to buy a tag to enjoy the pristinely clean sand and gentle surf. Try finding a free beach just about anywhere else along the East Coast.

The Boardwalk, still Atlantic City’s main pedestrian thoroughfare as it’s been for over a century, is always evolving. Steel Pier will be adding the country’s second-largest observation wheel.

Transportation is improving as the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey looks for more airlines to service ACY, one of the best small airports in the country. New Jersey Transit’s Atlantic City line makes the resort easily accessible by rail with Amtrak connections through Philadelphia.

Even with the shrinking gaming market, Atlantic City will still generate about $2.5 billion in casino revenue this year. That’s about half the $5.2 billion the industry won from players in 2006 — its best year ever — but it’s still a very healthy number.

Once the city remedies its tax problems and the casino industry stabilizes, Atlantic City will straighten the crown on her head and continue her long reign as America’s Queen of Resorts.

Divorce Law South Jersey 2014

Charles Matison

“High-energy, personable and tenacious ... some of the strongest courtroom skills in the state.”

Law Offices of Charles A. Matison, Esq., P.C. 1640 Tilton Road, Northfield • cmatison.com

(609) 407-1100

Mark Biel

“Renowned for his experience, skill and personality ...

Universally regarded as one of the region’s premier matrimonial attorneys.”

Biel, Zlotnick & Stiles, P.A. 450 Tilton Road, Northfield • mbiel@bzs-law.com

(609) 344-1173

Michael Gill “One of the Atlantic City area’s best known ... and most accomplished ... divorce lawyers.”

Goldenberg Mackler Sayegh Mintz Pfeffer Bonchi & Gill 660 New Road, Northfield • gmslaw.com

(609) 646-0222

See all Members of Ten Leaders of Matrimonial & Divorce Law of Southern New Jersey at

www.TenLeaders.org

Dar la Hendricks Publisher

The Ten Leaders of Matrimonial & Divorce Law of Southern New Jersey is based on interviews and peer referrals originating in first quarter 2003 and continuing through 2014. Attorneys listed here were referred by at least three of their out-of-firm peers. Ten Leaders is a consensus presentation of experienced, accomplished professionals, based on independent surveys and peer referrals; it is administered by The Ten Leaders Cooperative, Reston, Va., and Fort Lee, NJ. This announcement complies with advertising guidelines set forth by The Supreme Court of The State of New Jersey. Ten Leaders professionals underwrite the distribution of their lists. To read Ten Leaders profiles in the law, medicine and finance, and for more information visit www.tenleaders.org. Copyright 2014, The Ten Leaders Cooperative, All Rights Reserved.

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 3

CONTENTS

FALL 2014 Photo by Eric Weeks

Visit Ground Zero and experience the poignant, lifechanging 9/11 Museum, see page 36.

Photo by Jin Lee

DEPARTMENTS Local Chatter ............................................. 6 The buzz on happenings in and around our area.

Fashion Spotlight........................................ 9 One local fashion business stands the test of time.

Lifestyle Fashion........................................ 10 Stylist’s tips revealed.

Health Watch............................................. 18 Welcome home to this modern masterpiece, which was built by a surfing family uninterested in fuss or fancy decor, see page 14.

Help and hope for depression.

Money Watch............................................. 20 Credentials matter when searching for an advisor.

FEATURES

Education Spotlight.................................... 28

Home at Last..................................... 14 Come as you are to this modern masterpiece in Margate.

Full Speed Ahead................................22 The world of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche of Atlantic City.

Building triumphant futures at St. Augustine.

Lifestyle Legacy......................................... 34 One man’s strategy in his fight against cancer.

Lifestyle On Wheels.................................... 42 Today’s concept cars are wheeled works of art.

Can We Talk?...................................... 30 Remembering comedy luminaries Joan Rivers and Robin Williams.

A Somber Reminder........................... 36 Visit Ground Zero and experience the 9/11 Museum.

Lifestyle Legends....................................... 46 The top 10 football films.

The Social Scene........................................ 49 Get the picture on the latest events and happenings.

Let’s Do the Numbers......................... 40 Test your knowledge with these fun facts on NJ.

Reflections................................................. 53 Giving back with honor.

Lifestyle Cooking........................................ 54 The ideal Fall meal.

Restaurant Report...................................... 57 Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay’s British invasion.

Best of the Bunch....................................... 58 Signature pairings for the perfect autumn meal.

Dining Gallery............................................ 60 Think you know everything about the Garden State? Test your knowledge with these fun facts, see page 40.

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All of the details on the area’s great dining venues.

A Final Word.............................................. 64 Illuminating memories.

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LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

MAGAZINE

Publisher / Creative Director

Darla Hendricks darlabh2@gmail.com

Mention this ad and receive 10% off all projects

Associate Publisher

Barbara Scarduzzio barbaras1@comcast.net Editor

Bill Henry Vice President of Sales

Kristine Kurilko Advertising Director

Charles Epstein Copy Editor

Alyson Boxman Levine Contributing Writers

Molly Golubcow Sherry Hoffman Alyson Boxman Levine Michelle Dawn Mooney Felicia Lowenstein Niven Marjorie Preston Matt and Tom Reynolds Elaine Rose Will Savarese Phillip Silverstone David Spatz Robin Stoloff Travel Editor

2547 Fire Road, Suite G7 Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 (609) 804-1133

www.cleanlinespaint.com

Dan Schlossberg Photographers

Nick Valinote Eric Weeks Online Media Info

www.njlifestyleonline.com Accounting

Michael I. Mann, CPA Zelnick, Mann and Winikur, P.C. NewJersey Lifestyle is published by New Jersey Lifestyle, LLC. The entire contents of New Jersey Lifestyle are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher. New Jersey Lifestyle, LLC assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. New Jersey Lifestyle, LLC reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse editorial material and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. All correspondence should be sent to:

New Jersey Lifestyle One North New York Road, Smithville, NJ 08205 Telephone: 609-404-4611 / Fax: 609-404-4613 info@njlifestyleonline.com www.njlifestyleonline.com

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LOCAL

CHATTER The Perfect Pumpkin

WITH THE BEVY OF wonderful farms peppered across New Jersey, there are certainly many options available for procuring a pumpkin. Whether you decide to head to the local patch to pick one from the vine, or simply purchase one from the corner store, choosing the perfect pumpkin is not as easy as it looks.

Before purchasing, always examine the pumpkin from all sides. Soft spots and bruises are early signs of rot. For a sturdy Jack O’ Lantern, be sure your pumpkin has a flat spot or is level on the bottom so it will sit without rolling over. Make sure the stem stays attached to the pumpkin. Ideal pumpkins should have dried, somewhat brittle stems. And remember to always carry your pumpkin by the bottom so you don’t damage the stem.

Happy carving!

Ocean City’s Ghostly

Tour

FROM THE OCEAN to the bay, Ocean City abounds with tales of the supernatural as mysterious legends have surrounded the island for centuries. What is that shadow haunting the beaches at night? Many legends of buried treasure exist, as do the legends of pirate ghosts left behind to guard it.

This candlelight walking tour strolls the avenues of Ocean City and reveals tales of the unknown and folklore of this popular shore town. Based on the book, “Ghost Stories of Ocean City, NJ”, the unique tour reveals the untold secrets of the boardwalk; from the mysterious encounters at the Flanders Hotel to sightings of the infamous Jersey Devil.

There Will Be Whales

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IT’S OFFICIAL! The New Jersey coast is one of the top places in the world to see whales, according to Destinations Travel Magazine. In their September 2014 issue, the magazine listed New Jersey as one of the premier whale watching locales alongside Hawaii, Alaska, California, and Mexico.

Starting in March and lasting through December, whale watchers along the NJ coast can see humpback and finback whales circulate around the Cape May peninsula as they feed on bait fish.

Tea Time NOT JUST FOR THE BRITISH anymore, the high tea tradition has come to Atlantic County. Somers Point eatery, Latz’s By The Bay, has perfected their afternoon tea service and locals and visitors alike are donning their tea hats and joining the tradition.

With over 32 tea varieties to choose from, along with housemade scones and savories, their tea service has been a big hit with customers of all ages, revealed owner and tea aficionado Adrienne Latz.

“We have mothers coming in with their daughters, grandmothers coming in with their granddaughters, and we also host tea parties and events in the tea room,” said Latz. “We are so happy we can offer our customers this unique experience.

Everyone simply loves it.”

T HE BUZ Z O N HA P P E N IN GS IN AN D A ROU N D O U R A R EA It’s A Boy!

THE CAPE MAY COUNTY Park and Zoo family has welcomed a bouncing baby boy bison.

The calf arrived on September 10 and, according to the Zoo Veterinarians, is doing very well.

Presently, the zoo’s bison herd includes the calf, his parents — 6-year-old Dam, Henrietta, and 6-year old-Sire, Hank — and his sister Snap, who was born at the zoo in August 2013.

Toby, an unrelated 20-year-old female, is also a member of the herd. Both Henrietta and Hank came to the Cape May County Zoo from Six Flags Great Adventure in 2010.

Foodie Workshops

Lucy Takes the Challenge

LEARN HOW TO PREPARE three- and four-course dinners from around the globe without leaving South Jersey. Chef Jon Davies of Cape May leads the “An Evening in…” series, offered by the Academy of Culinary Arts at Atlantic Cape Community College.

Explore the “Land of Enchantment’s” fiery and robust cuisine centered on the chili pepper in An Evening in Santa Fe, Oct. 21.

Dishes featured in this workshop include: pork green chile, salsa verde, chili rellenos, and enchiladas.

Besides hot and sour soup and Kung Pao chicken, learn to prepare tea-smoked duck, twice-cooked pork and Szechuan beef and noodles in An Evening in Szechuan Province, Nov. 4.

An Evening of French-influenced Foods will highlight French cuisine techniques melded with indigenous ingredients from the Banh Mi of Vietnam and the gumbos of Louisiana, to North Africa and the Caribbean, Nov. 18.

Explore the origins and traditions of Sicily’s Christmas Eve feast in An Evening in La Vigilia, with a Sicilian Flair, Dec. 2. Learn how to make classic dishes with a modern twist, including stewed Baccala, Scungilli salad, mussels, clams, calamari, and more. All classes will be held from 6 – 9 PM at Atlantic Cape’s Mays Landing Campus.

FROM NEIGHBORS TO HOLLYWOOD CELEBRITIES, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge seems to be everywhere lately, and everyone’s favorite pachyderm recently got in on all the action.

On a warm Wednesday afternoon in September, the beloved landmark had an “elephant-sized amount of water” poured over her head, courtesy of the Margate City Fire Department. Lucy took the challenge in honor of Diane Riportella, a Lucy volunteer who died of ALS in 2012, according to Lucy the Elephant representatives.

Hello Sports Betting

NEW JERSEY GOVERNOR CHRIS CHRISTIE recently issued a directive allowing the state’s casinos and racetracks to offer sports betting. According to the governor, he took his cue from previous federal court rulings that found that nothing in New Jersey law prohibits the casinos and horse racing tracks from offering sports betting.

Atlantic City casinos and tracks can start offering betting immediately, explained Christie. Sports betting is legal under previous federal rulings as long as none of the wagers involve a collegiate game played in NJ or a NJ college team elsewhere in the country.

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The Zombies Are Coming IF YOU STROLL through historic Smithville on October 26th, you may think you’ve mistakenly stumbled upon an episode of AMC’s “The Walking Dead.” But fear not; it’s just the Annual Zombie Walk held every year on the grounds. Sponsored

by Underground, one of the 60 shops located in the village, this fun, gruesome event will surely get you in the mood for Halloween.

All That Jazz

ENJOY THE MUSIC at the Exit 0 International Jazz Festival in Cape May on November 7-9. During the 3-day weekend, Cape May transforms into a jazz mecca as Exit 0 Jazz hosts over 100 international touring musicians. During the Festival weekend, fans witness first-rate performances from awardwinning, critically-acclaimed artists, exciting new artists on the scene, and local favorites.

Since its debut in 2012, the Exit 0 International Jazz Fest has quickly become an attraction for world-class musicians and music aficionados alike. This year, headline performances in Cape May Convention Hall include; multi-Grammy Awardnominated Monty Alexander, jazz group The Cookers, and vocal sensation Rene Marie.

A Bird, A Plane, A Fireball?

ONE NIGHT IN MID-SEPTEMBER, observers from New Jersey got an out-of-thisworld sighting as a meteor blazed across the sky at a speed of tens of miles per second.

According to the American Meteorological Society, there were some 200 reports of the fireball, which scientists say was 60 to 100 miles above the Earth and about the size of a small car. The burning rock spent the last three to four billion years orbiting the sun before entering the Earth’s atmosphere, then shooting back into space.

Celebrating 150 Years

A FEAST IS THE ONLY way to celebrate a 150th Anniversary! In honor of Renault Winery’s historic celebration, the scenic destination is hosting a dinner in founder Louis Nicholas Renault’s honor on November 14th. The evening will begin with an elaborate cocktail reception deep in the wine cellars, followed by a five-course French Feast, featuring baked brie, braised rabbit, classic seafood au gratin, reconstructed veal Oscar, and a decadent chocolate mousse. Wine will be tasted throughout the elegant evening as a fitting tribute to this Master Vintner.

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FASHION

SPOTLIGHT

FASHIONABLY SUCCESSFUL WITH OVER SIXTY YEARS OF SUCCESS, ONE LOCAL FASHION BUSINESS TRIUMPHANTLY STANDS THE TEST OF TIME

Photography by Nick Valinote

By Alyson Boxman Levine

Marc Lovitz

Longevity in the business world certainly carries with it an air

of well-earned respect, especially in the ultra-competitive fashion retail industry. And no one in this area knows this concept better than Marc Lovitz, president of Talk of the Walk. Family-owned and operated for over seven decades, Talk of the Walk comprises a string of successful upscale women’s boutiques born from a bygone-era boardwalk souvenir shop.

“It all began in 1951 when my father and uncle opened a souvenir shop on the Atlantic City boardwalk,” revealed Lovitz. “The shop carried inexpensive ladies items and, from there, we worked our way up. With hard work and a dedication to quality merchandise, together with my wife Sharon and my brother Bill, we built the business. And we are now the longest-running casino boutique.”

In 1979, when Talk of the Walk opened their first casino store in Caesars, they had pre-selected unique, quality merchandise. “Sharon was a smart person with the eye, and the talent, to find special items that are not seen everywhere,” said Lovitz. “Our premise was to give people a reason to buy.”

Rapidly earning a stellar reputation in the area for carrying the most unique and exciting fashions, Talk of the Walk quickly built a loyal following. With the success of the store in Caesars, the company expanded its operations, and presently has four NJ locations; The Pier at Caesars, The Quarter at the Tropicana, Northfield, and Stone Harbor.

With a wide range of new and distinctive outerwear and leathers, handbags and accessories, fashionable sportswear, and elegant evening attire, Talk of the Walk has continually evolved to meet the demands of their customers. The stores specialize in better merchandise from smaller designers that sell only to specialty shops, said Lovitz.

“Most of our lines are exclusive to our area,” he explained. “We are always looking for companies that are different and wearable.”

Offering sizes 2 to 22, the Lovitz family travels far and wide to find those one-of-a-kind items that will get their customers the compliments

they have come to expect from their merchandise. As a multi-store operation, Talk of the Walk is able to carry a diverse range of categories and sizes unattainable for a single store.

Talk of the Walk’s unique retail strategy includes a constant flow of new merchandise hitting the stores daily, as well as aggressive in-season markdowns. As a result of this strategy, the company has created a dynamic retail environment that is both fresh and accessible. As an added benefit to their customers, the Stone Harbor and Tropicana shops are now featuring footwear through an in-store partnership with Hot Foot, an upscale Philadelphia shoe retailer.

When asked his formula for success, Lovitz simply, and honestly, replied, “Working harder than the other people.” He added, “you have to work at making people happy. Whether someone buys the most expensive item in the store, or the least expensive item, we want their experience to be the same.”

Renowned for customer service, Talk of the Walk sales associates strive to make lasting relationships with their customers. These special relationships enable them to make appropriate suggestions, both to the customers and the buyers. This personal service extends beyond the walls of the stores, as company associates keep their customers up-todate on the newest arrivals that fit their specific taste.

One of their exclusive vendors is Joseph Ribkoff of Montreal, who has also been closely involved with both the Miss New Jersey and Miss America contestants, and on many occasions has provided the dresses worn by the contestants on the runway and during the day.

“My son Geoffrey is currently in the business, and his young son, who represents the fourth generation, is waiting in the wings,” mused Lovitz.

And the family ties continue, as Geoffrey’s wife Constanza is also very hands-on in the company.

At 70 years old, Lovitz is still working full time in the family business he loves. “There is always excitement in our stores,” he describes. “You walk in and feel it.” n njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 11

LIFESTYLE FASHION

Stylist’s Tips Revealed Enhance your style and body type with these head-turning looks

H

ave you ever wondered how to pick out the perfect boot, or which jacket works best with your specific body type?

Admit it ladies; we have all lugged a stack of clothes into the dressing room of our favorite retailer, only to come out defeated with no keepers in sight. Well, those disappointing days can soon be over. With a few tricks from style

experts, anyone can dress their body like a star.

For starters, any worthy fashion stylist will tell you the key to a successful wardrobe is being organized. Prepare for the season ahead by organizing your closest and editing out end-of-season items. Keep in mind that some pieces can transform from season to season, so be sure to keep the basics around and in reach.

Now that you have a clean slate, it’s time to get honest about your appearance. Take a good, long look in the mirror. While it is important to be aware of your flaws, it is much more vital to address your virtues and embrace your good attributes. Do you have great legs? Is your waist small? Do you have a wonderful bust line? Once you have identified your key assets, focus on choosing clothes that will bring out only the best of your features.

BY ALYSON BOXMAN LEVINE V-neck dress, Diane Von Furstenberg

Orange coat, Jonathan Saunders 12

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Textured sweater, Joseph Ribkoff

nnn Enhance Your Assets

nnn Orange is the New Black

Do you want to look 10 pounds thinner?

Wear a dress with a defined waist, stylists agree, as it will highlight the smallest part of a woman’s body. Move away from the loose fitting, flowy dresses that have overtaken your closet. These items will only make you appear larger than you actually are, according to fashion experts. Structured fabrics are the key to a slimmer appearance, as they masterfully pull you in and hide unsightly bulges.

Is your bust line your best feature?

Highlight your assets with this celestialdecked dress by Diane von Furstenberg. Ideal for work or weekends on the town, this dress is a silhouette that flatters all body types. Add a dazzling clutch and a sophisticated kneehigh boot for an out-of-this-world outfit.

Remember, when you find a silhouette that is especially flattering to your body type, stick with it. Buy multiples of the same shape, says stylists. When it works, why question it?

If legs are your finest feature, try this neon plaid dress from Kenzo. Shiny fabrics were all over the Fall 2014 runways, and this dress — with its crewneck collar and long sleeves — hits the mark perfectly. Pair it with some heels and your legs will certainly take center stage.

Bold colors were once again spotted on the Fall 2014 runways, as ready-to-wear collections gear up for the colder months.

Making any woman look elegant and fashionable, the color orange has become one of the most energetic and feminine colors available today, and was seen in many different fashion shows, including fashion giants Chanel and Louis Vuitton.

If you’re looking to energize your Fall wardrobe with color, look no further than this trendy orange coat by coveted designer Jonathan Saunders. A master of his art and having worked previously with Alexander McQueen, Christian Lacroix at Pucci and Pheobe Philo at Chloe, Saunders is a major player in the international fashion world.

Hailing from Glasgow, Scotland, he continues to consult for some of the largest and most prestigious fashion houses in Europe.

nnn Add Some Texture Knitwear is taking a vibrant turn this season, as sweaters are more fashionable than ever.

Plain sweaters are officially out though, and now it’s all about texture, from chunky knits, cable knits, quilts and box stitches seen

Cropped leather moto jacket, Michael Kors

Plaid dress, Kenzo

walking down the runways at NY Fashion Week. A textured sweater is a Fall wardrobe staple and versatility is the cornerstone of the piece, and celebrities Carrie Underwood and Jennifer Lopez have recently been spotted out and about in this fast-growing trend.

Wear this cozy grey sweater from Joseph Ribkoff with a pair of comfortable leggings and stylish ankle boots. Dress it up with accessories and you will look warm and ontrend as the temperatures dip.

Canadian designer Joseph Ribkoff has a reputation built on the innovative versatility, affordability, and quality of their collections.

Priding themselves on their unmatched excellence in customer service, the company currently produces for over 55 international markets. The line is carried locally at Talk of the Walk boutiques.

nnn Belt One On A must-have for your Autumn wardrobe — as well as your all-season closet — a versatile belt will instantly take any outfit from ordinary to fabulous. Remember, no body type looks good in shapeless clothes. The simple art of adding a belt will accent your waist and make your legs appear longer and leaner. So, if you have a baggy tunic, cardigan or dress, just add an interesting belt and your ho-hum outfit will be instantly glammed up.

nnn The Perfect Jacket Many stylists believe in the “blazer factor.”

With the ability to hide problem areas and elongate the body, fashion stylists preach the virtues of this magical garment and feel you are not completely dressed until you don that ideal jacket. Adding that extra pop to virtually any outfit, a jacket or blazer will instantly pull the entire look together, and gave you an instant boost of confidence.

Try a brown leather jacket this Fall, and stylists across the globe will offer up a collective sigh of happiness. This hip moto jacket from Michael Kors is cropped, and will look wonderful paired with just about anything. Just ask Hollywood’s hottest celebrities, including Jennifer Aniston, as numerous starlets utterly adore this ideal piece for Fall.

The key to any successful Autumn wardrobe is finding the right items that, not only make you look your best, but feel your best as well. By enhancing your best features and dressing your body for success with wearable and versatile items, you will be a fashion superstar this season. n njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 13

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A Fashion Experience 14 Central Square Linwood • 609.601.0035

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Lifestyle Fashion

Top 5 Ankle Boots A must have for your fall wardrobe, these stylish booties will quickly rise to the top of your favorites list. Here are some smart selections: 1. The Bold One Passersby will stop and stare when you strut by in these luxurious chocolate brown ankle boots with a contemporary metallic gold block heel, Pollini, $795.

2. A Comfy Choice With a friendly wedge heel and an oh-so-comfy rubber sole, this peep toe leopard wedge bootie is wearable, and stylish, from day to night, Lucky, $129.

3. Ideal For Everyday Go anywhere in this versatile bootie shaped from lightly-textured yellow leather, with a stacked heel and designed for a streamlined fit, Cole Haan, $278.

4. Oh So Chic Handmade in Italy, you will surely have wings when you wear this “Phoenix” leather ankle bootie with a moveable gold leather detail, inspired by the mechanical wings conceived by Da Vinci, Gio Diev, $825.

5. Celebrity Style Become instantly Hollywood chic when you slip on these Margot leather ankle boots, rendered in sumptuous Italian leather with a sturdy stacked heel, Rag & Bone, $525.

Lou Marchiano FOR MEN

CLOTHING • SPORTSWEAR • SHOES Terra Mar Plaza | Tilton Road | Northfield, NJ | 609-641-2088

NJLifestyleOnline.com Turning pages...

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TRY IT!

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 15

Home at Last A sprawling 18 x 25-foot deck with rectangular saltwater pool located on the fabulous bayfront

Come as you are to this modern masterpiece, which was built by a surfing family uninterested in fuss or fancy décor.

F

or years, Jennifer Hansen had an eye on her dream house.

She couldn’t help it: the sprawling 40-year-old dwelling was right across the street from her own home, on a secluded lane in Margate. The house had everything: the perfect setting, steps from the bay, with magnificent, ever-changing natural views; a dockside boat slip; and plenty of room for the family with three growing kids, Mia, Jaden, and Jackson.

The house was also a tumble-down wreck, left vacant and wide open by the former owner, a developer who lost it to foreclosure during the recession. Outside, it was overgrown with weeds. Inside, it had 70s-era mirrored walls and (horrors!) purple shag carpeting.

“It was a tear-down, really,” says Hansen.

Even so, she loved the house — or more precisely, the location.

Finally, she could no longer resist. She bought the place, stripped it down to the framework, the foundation, and the exterior stone walls, and started all over again.

“We took it down to the bare bones,” Hansen says, “but the layout is pretty much the same.”

Hansen and her husband, Margate chiropractor Jon Greenberg, replaced the dock, where they had often gone crabbing before 16

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Entryway with pond and gently-splashing waterfall

Airy and ultra-modern kitchen area

LIFESTYLE

ARCHITECTURE

By MARJORIE PRESTON Photography by ERIC WEEKS

Dining area that flows onto the deck

All-purpose living space njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 17

Lifestyle Architecture they bought the property. At the entryway, Greenberg built a pond complete with a resident Buddha overlooking a gently-splashing waterfall. He also designed the landscaping, which is rich with native grasses, shrubs and flowers in a riot of competing colors. A wooden trellis thick with greenery marks the path from the driveway to the front door.

But there’s no need for a welcome mat.

Everything about this house bespeaks ease and

The master suite

The master bath 18

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comfort. And despite a certain grandeur (it’s a big house, after all, totaling about 4,000 square feet), it also has an intimate, barefoot feel. That’s just what Hansen wanted.

Talking About My Renovation “We have three kids, so we’re not very fancy,” she says. “And we all surf.” The implicit message: this is a house meant to withstand sandy feet, wet beach towels, galloping dogs

(the family has a rambunctious pit bull mix named Samson), and big gatherings filled with friends.

Gesturing to the living room’s custom-made wraparound sofa, set under a wide bay window filled with candles, she says, “We’re just waiting until the kids are older so we can replace it.”

The all-purpose living space is also distinguished by vivid paintings of leaping dolphins and sailfish (Greenberg’s art work); an inset gas fireplace; and a 150-gallon fish tank that’s built into the wall between the living area and kitchen. The tank and its inhabitants — lionfish, angel fish, a moray eel and more — are visible from both rooms. An upright piano, the kind you’d find in an old-fashioned parlor, occupies one corner (hint: there’s a musician in the family, daughter Mia, but this is not where she rehearses).

The kitchen and dining area, which set the tone for the entire home, are airy and ultra-modern, with finishes that recall the sand, sea, and sky. This sparkling retreat flows organically onto an 18 x 25-foot deck, and then outside, to a rectangular saltwater pool and that fabulous bayfront.

Like much of the house, the kitchen is characterized by shimmering surfaces:

glass, granite, stainless steel, gleaming woods, and other natural elements. The cabinets (salvaged from Hansen’s mother’s home in Florida) were faced with koa veneers from Hawaii; the doors are of rippled rain glass.

Hanging lamps over the glass-topped dining table have boxy glass shades that seem to be encrusted with sand. Sconces made of variegated red, orange and gold glass look like someone mounted a tequila sunrise on the wall. But the most striking feature may be the textured glass countertop and kitchen table, which look like thick slabs of silver-blue ice.

“We wanted it to feel like water in here,” says Hansen. “The sunset, the sand, the water, that’s what we were going for.”

Hansen describes the look of the place as “tropical modern, because modern doesn’t usually use all the wood we’ve used in here (maple, mahogany, bamboo, and hard-as-nails ipe). It’s like some of the houses you would see in Hawaii, with a little more of a modern flair.”

And she does mean modern: the homeowners eschewed door and window moldings in favor of drywall returns, and on the decks, chose cable railings (thin filaments of steel line) instead of wood.

Sweet Retreats The master suite continues the contemporary

theme, but in a most comfortable way. A kingsize bed under a vaulted roof fan with Panama fan looks out at double glass doors onto a deck with intricately carved teak flooring.

Some of the appointments look pricy, but in many cases they’re not. A rustic pine-stained mahogany sideboard is from Pottery Barn. And the teak tiles? “I got them at Overstock.com,” Hansen says cheerfully. “They come in squares and fit together like Legos. And they were cheap, like $10 a box.”

The master bath includes a full wall of mirrors, an oversized steam shower, granite countertops, and Santos mahogany cabinets with a rich, gorgeous grain. Many of the fixtures and accents throughout the entire home were furnished by Artistic Hardware in Northfield.

But the real fun may happen on the lower level of the house, where Hansen’s musician daughter, 16-year-old Mia Bergmann, rehearses, records and even makes Youtube videos in her own fully appointed music studio. Mia is a country music artist who plays guitar (electric and acoustic) and has been writing and performing since she was 12 years old. Could she be the next Taylor Swift?

“She’s really starting to get some traction,” says her proud mother. “I always listened to classic rock, and Mia grew up listening to that.

And a lot of the country music today sounds

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more like that, like the Grateful Dead or Fleetwood Mac.” Mia prefers “that kind of raw instrumentation, rather than a lot of synthetic, overproduced music.”

The ambitious teen, who has her own band and has recorded several CDs, writes much of her own music, some with a composer in Nashville. Her hideaway includes a professional-quality sound board and track lighting for shooting those videos. But in an homage to the past, it also has an old-fashioned turntable, as well as a photo of Stevie Nicks.

Welcome Home The once-derelict house is now officially a showcase. In August, the Hansen-Greenberg residence was chosen to be part of the 27th annual Jewish Family Services House Tour, which opens some of Downbeach’s most luxurious homes to the public to raise money for senior services. Hansen says she feels more than fortunate to have come home to this very welcome place.

“We lived across the street for six years and were always looking at this house. Now we’re out here all the time, eating dinner on the dock, watching the sun set. The sunsets are great. We see dolphins, porpoise, turtles …

“Sometimes we still can’t believe we live here.” n

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 19

HEALTHWATCH

HELP AND HOPE FOR DEPRESSION Learn the warning signs to identify this growing epidemic

CHRISTINE MILLER WAS A HAPPY WOMAN IN HER LATE 30’s with a full-time job, a husband and two great children. But when things began to go wrong in her marriage, she found herself in the middle of a difficult divorce. To make ends meets, she began working 70 hours a week between her full-time job and as a crisis counselor with Sandy victims.

Paperwork from her divorce and bills was piling up and she struggled to find time with her kids. She was ignoring responsibilities, crying often, losing concentration and acting erratically. Feeling as if she was always “putting out fires”, Christine had no joy in her life. To make matters worse, she began to gain weight after losing 40 pounds.

Ironically, Christine, who had worked for the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County for years, did not realize that she was in need of help.

Then something changed.

While working with Sandy survivors, she began to see symptoms in herself that were similar to her clients. The turning point was when a good friend noticed that something was wrong and offered to make an appointment for her with a therapist. Christine agreed, and was

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diagnosed with situational depression, also known as adjustment disorder. She saw the therapist for almost a year, going weekly at first and then biweekly.

Through therapy and her professional experience in mental health, she made gradual progress. She took small steps and created goals to complete paperwork and address financial and household issues. She analyzed her daily routine and began to make healthier choices, such as getting outside and doing more physical activity. She slowly started to create more structure in her life and adhered to a bedtime routine which would allow her to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. She set priorities and began to find “silver linings” — focusing on the future, not the past, and finding happy moments in each day. She worked hard to develop coping techniques with her therapist. But, of all the steps she took toward getting better, her biggest one was asking for support from family and friends. Without them, she says, the road would have been much harder.

She felt immediate relief just talking to a professional on her first visit, and was feeling better within months of seeing her therapist. She saw her world “put back together” close to a year after she first sought help. Christine acknowledged her symptoms and found the assistance she needed to recover and get back to her life.

For Christine, anti-depressant medicine was not needed. However, she left that possibility open if the therapy sessions did not work. There are many types of depression, such as postpartum, major depression, dysthymia (a milder form of depression), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and bipolar disorder.

In some cases, medication is necessary to decrease symptoms as a person works toward getting well.

Christine’s story is typical of so many in our country. She experienced a traumatic situation that triggered her depression.

However, there are other people that cannot point to a definitive reason for their depression. They have feelings of sorrow, loss, anger, or frustration

By ROBIN STOLOFF

that persist over time, and they have no interest in activities that used to make them happy (see sidebar). Also known as major depressive disorder or MDD, this disabling condition adversely affects a person’s family, work or school life, eating and sleeping habits, and overall health.

The recent suicide of comedian Robin Williams, who was reported to suffer from severe clinical depression, has shed more light on this disorder, and makes us more aware that depression can affect anyone, no matter their race, sex, or economic status. There are those that question how someone with Robin Williams’ wealth, fame and seemingly happy life, could have depression. As one expert noted, that is like saying “how could Robin Williams have cancer or diabetes?”

Major depressive disorder is a mental illness that needs to be placed in the same category as other illnesses. A person just cannot “snap out of it” and make themselves better. Experiencing depression is not a sign of weakness and there should be no shame in seeking assistance.

While more research needs to be done, many experts believe depression is linked to brain chemistry, which is why certain prescription medications, when taken appropriately, may work to relieve the symptoms. Combined with therapy, physical activity, and other techniques, medication is one tool in the arsenal to overcome this disorder. Sadly, all too often people with depression self-medicate with illegal drugs or alcohol, or abuse prescription drugs, which can lead to addiction problems. Stigmas associated with depression or mental illness still exist, but education and knowledge is helping to pave the way for more understanding and acceptance. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that one in ten people will suffer from depression at some point in their lives.

One thing is for sure — depression is a complex illness with a variety of contributing causes. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, help is simply a click or call away. Throughout our area, group or individual counseling services are available. Many are free of charge or covered by insurance. The good news is, you can get better. You can feel better. The earlier you seek help, the more likely that you will see the benefits of treatment.

The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County is offering a new program called Mental Health First Aid. Their trained professionals will come to your business, school, or other facility and teach you the basic signs of mental illness. Just like CPR training, this important course gives us the tools to recognize a problem and potentially save someone’s life.

The program is offered at no charge while grant funding is available.

Call the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County at 609-652-3800 for more information or to seek help for any mental illness issue. For services throughout New Jersey, contact NJ Mental Health Cares at 1-866-202-HELP. n

Robin Stoloff is the Health Reporter for NBC 40. She created and hosts the longest-running health feature in New Jersey, the award-winning Health Update. A certified group fitness instructor, Robin produced and hosted her own workout video, Rock Hard with Robin, on the beaches of Atlantic City.

Like her on Facebook at Health Update-Reach Out to Robin to get daily health tips.

Symptoms of Depression from Mayo Clinic (one or more could be a sign of depression)

• Feelings of sadness, emptiness or unhappiness • Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters • Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities, such as sex • Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much • Tiredness and lack of energy, so that even small tasks take extra effort • Changes in appetite — often reduced appetite and weight loss, but increased cravings for food and weight gain in some people • Anxiety, agitation or restlessness — for example, excessive worrying, pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit still • Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or blaming yourself for things that are not your responsibility • Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things • Frequent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide • Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 21

LIFESTYLE

MONEYWATCH

By Matt and Tom Reynolds

Credentials Matter Searching for a trusted advisor?

Make your decision a well-informed one.

ACCORDING TO THE BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS, THERE WERE 223,400 personal financial advisors in the Unites States at the end of 2012.

Other analytical agencies such as Cerulli Associates, estimate that number to be north of 300,000. Furthermore, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), which overseas how investments are marketed to the public, has identified at least 95 different professional designations for advisors. With hundreds of thousands of financial advisors across the country with an array of letters after their names, choosing one as your trusted advisor can be a daunting task.

Understanding an advisor’s credentials is a must to ensure you choose the right one for you. Here we will cover three of the most respected designations in the financial planning and investment industry: CPA, CFA®, and CFP®.

The CPA designation stands for Certified Public Accountant. This designation is awarded to candidates who have passed the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination. The exam consists of four sections: Auditing and Attestation, Business Environment and Concepts, Financial Accounting and Reporting, and Regulation. In addition to passing each of the four sections, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with an additional 30 semester hours of study, have at least one year of experience in the practice of public accountancy (NJ state specific), pass an ethics exam, and once earned, must complete 120 hours of continuing education every three years. Certified Public Accountants can provide more than just tax advice, as many act as business and financial strategists providing financial planning services, investment advice, estate planning, and various consulting services.

The CFA Institute defines the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation as a “globally recognized, graduate-level investment credential” that demonstrates a charter holder’s “mastery of the skills most needed for investment analysis and decision making in today’s fast-evolving global financial industry.” To earn the CFA® charter, candidates must have at least four years of qualifying investment work experience and pass three rigorous examinations. The exams cover topic areas such as ethical and professional standards, quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting and analysis, corporate finance, and portfolio management. Each six hour exam requires approximately 300 hours of study with levels II and III offered only once a year. CFA® charter holders can be found working in over 135 countries, and the 22

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Financial Times stated, “Among the countless degrees around the world, the Chartered Financial Analyst qualification has become the gold standard.”

Anyone can call themselves a financial planner, but only those who have fulfilled the certification requirements of the CFP® board can claim the status as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. Prior to sitting for the CFP® exam, candidates must complete a comprehensive course of study at a college or university offering a curriculum that covers financial planning, insurance, income taxation, retirement planning, investments, and estate planning. The exam, formerly a ten hour test over a two-day period, will be reduced to single day, six hour exam later this year. The exam tests a candidate’s “ability to integrate and apply a broad base of financial planning knowledge in the context of real life financial planning situations.” After completion of the exam, candidates will be awarded the CFP® designation upon satisfying the three year full-time work experience and ethics declaration, which includes a detailed background review.

Earning a designation does not indicate a better advisor; rather it indicates an advisor’s commitment to education, to his/her clients, and establishes a baseline for their competency. The CPA, CFA®, and CFP® designations require their members to abide by a stringent code of ethics, have several years of work experience, complete ongoing continuing education requirements, and demonstrate a mastery of a body of knowledge through a comprehensive examination. These three designations are highly-regarded credentials in the financial world, and should be a requirement as you narrow down your search for a trusted advisor. n Tom Reynolds, CPA & Matt Reynolds CPA, CFP® Co-Managing Partners, CRA Financial Robert T. Martin, CFA, CFP® Investment Advisor This article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as the basis for an investment decision. Consult your financial adviser, as well as your tax and/or legal advisers, regarding your personal circumstances before making investment decisions.

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FIRST PERSON

John Merhlander, General Partner, Mercedes-Benz Porsche of AC

Full Speed Ahead You’ll feel it the instant you enter the world of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche of Atlantic City. There’s an unspoken elegance, a deep respect, and a heartfelt welcome. Perhaps it’s because of the comfortable living room-style waiting area or the quality of refreshments offered. Or maybe it’s the warm greeting you receive from literally everyone. Even receptionist Donna Brode will stand up at her desk to address you formally. And you will be walked to the door when you leave. That’s the kind of respect that John Mehrlander inspires.

by Felicia Lowenstein Niven Photography by Nick Valinote 24

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General manager and partner John Merhlander runs Mercedes-Benz and Porsche of Atlantic City like — pardon the pun — a fine-tuned engine. This is a house of business and he takes that seriously.

“When you welcome someone in your home, you greet them, and it’s no different here,” said Mehrlander. “Our staff gives the same courtesies that they would offer in their homes, whether it’s offering you something to eat or drink, making sure you’re comfortable, and walking you to the door when you’re ready to leave. It’s a matter of respect.”

Mehrlander has been at the helm of these two dealerships since April 2, 2012. An avid car lover, it was not a given that he’d land in the industry, however. In fact, he was headed in quite the opposite direction.

A “Jersey boy” born and bred, Mehrlander spent the first years of his life in Long Branch. At the time that he was deciding on his career, he was living in Asbury Park. “I thought I wanted to be a teacher,” he remembers. “I also was working in a jewelry store at the time, and thought about becoming a gemologist.”

That’s when his passion for cars took

over. He got a job at a Buick dealership where he became the youngest salesperson not related to the family. Working his way up, and across dealerships, Mehrlander gained experience as sales and business manager. He even owned his own body shop in Neptune. But it was while he was general manager at the Red Bank Volvo that his career path dramatically altered.

“That’s when I met David Long,” noted

“When you welcome someone in your home, you greet them, and it’s no different here,” said Mehrlander. “It’s a matter of respect.”

Mehrlander. “We realized quickly that we shared the same vision, whether it was managing people or building relationships with customers.”

David Long was president and senior partner of the Long Motor Company, which operated several dealer franchises.

Mehrlander went to work for him first at Bridgewater Volvo, and then helped

him open Volvo of Edison. The company also owns Volvo of Princeton. On April 2, 2012, Mehrlander arrived in south Jersey.

Long Motor Company had acquired the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche of Atlantic City franchise. They put Mehrlander at the helm as a partner. He’s been helping to build the southern Jersey dealerships’ reputation ever since.

A billboard at the entrance is a copy of a customer’s letter that exemplifies the dedication of the dealerships. It’s from Christopher Fellman, who purchased a fully-loaded E550 4matic Mercedes-Benz at another dealership. After having some issues with their service, he headed to Atlantic City — and was treated like royalty. The service department had the paperwork ready for when Chris arrived, as well as a loaner car.

When Chris noted that the heater in his loaner car was working better than his own, service offered to replace the heater as well.

Over the course of a couple of visits, they took care of everything Chris needed — and some things he hadn’t realized he needed.

They brought his car back to his home — even though it was an hour away.

“I will be a lifelong customer of njlifestyleonline.com

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First Person

Mercedes-Benz of Atlantic City,” he wrote.

“They truly embrace the Mercedes motto of ‘The Best or Nothing.’”

Experiences like that have earned the dealerships a #10 ranking nationwide in terms of customer satisfaction in 2013. Mehrlander noted that choosing the right people has a lot to do with their success. “Our employees have a wonderful work ethic and the interpersonal skills that connect with customers. And importantly, they care.”

There’s a “Wow Your Customer” program in place that allows service staff to cover some incidentals for customers. “Maybe the car is just out of warranty or the customer is back for a second time with an issue,” said Mehrlander.

“We’ll simply take care of the problem, and the cost of it, because it’s the right thing to do.”

That’s one reason that customers might buy at Mercedes-Benz or Porsche of Atlantic City.

The other reasons, of course, are the brands’ state-of-the-art technology and well-earned attributes.

“Mercedes-Benz moved to the forefront in safety, and now is the standard,” Mehrlander explained. “The S-Class is the closest thing out there to a car driving itself. The technology keeps you in-lane and driving straight so you avoid impact and collision. It has a surround camera. These safety features literally help save lives. There’s a model to meet everyone’s needs in terms of price point, size and versatility.”

“Porsche has a reputation for phenomenal handling,” he said. Reviews clock the 2014 Porsche Boxster at 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds and note that it’s “one of the most engaging fun-to-drive cars at any price.” Other Porsche models may appeal to the family set, but offer a comparable driving experience, according to Mehrlander.

There’s also a crossover between Porsche and Mercedes-Benz customers, he noted. “They are closely niched,” he said. “Many families will start with one, then switch to the other. They might have an M-Class SUV, for example, for the family, but then go for the 911 for fun.”

His dedicated customer base stretches up and down the East Coast. The majority are from along the shore line from Toms River to Cape May, or summer visitors from Philadelphia.

But because Mehrlander has built relationships with folks along the way in his career, it’s not unusual for him to personally deliver a car to Vermont or Florida. “Relationships are the foundation of our business,” he said. “We like

to say, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche build the vehicles; we build the relationships.”

“We’re a hometown franchise,” said Mehrlander. “Part of that relationship building is supporting our local communities.” Toward that end, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche of Atlantic City have donated thousands of dollars to groups such as the American Red Cross, AtlantiCare, Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City, and Embrace Kids Foundation — because “it’s the right thing to do.”

“I’ve been in this business for 48 years,” said Mehrlander, “and the greatest thing about it are the relationships.” He thinks back to the start of his career when he was considering teaching or working in jewelry. “What I enjoyed most about those careers were the people. As it turned out, I found my dream job, because I get to work with people on so many levels. It’s very rewarding.”

Mehrlander also gets to be around cars, which remain his passion. He does drive one of his franchise’s vehicles but like a proud parent, doesn’t want to reveal whether it’s MercedesBenz or Porsche so as not to show favoritism.

“Just know that I couldn’t go wrong with either choice,” he said with a smile. And at the end of another 11-hour day, he heads home to wife Delynn for some supportive words that always energize him.

You’ll find him back at the office the next morning, and before he does anything else, he stops to greet each and every employee.

Again, it’s part of the “Old World” respect that he has helped to instill in the business. “I’m a walk-around manager,” he said. “I’ll introduce myself to customers, and greet ones that I know by name. I want them to feel welcome in our house of business.”

The “‘house” however is slated for relocation soon. Plans are to move the dealerships further up the Black Horse Pike, a mile west of the Garden State Parkway. “Currently, we’re on nine acres,” he said. “The new site will have a 45,000 sq. ft. facility on just about 20 acres.” The move is anticipated in late summer/fall of 2015, and may even include additional franchises beyond Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. “There will be lots of opportunity in that location. Just the traffic pattern will put us in front of thousands of additional drivers.”

The future is bright, and Mehrlander is just getting started. “I’m looking forward to all of the new people I’ll get to meet. It doesn’t get better than that.” n

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©2014 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times.

Porsche recommends four winter tires when driving in cold, snowy, or slippery conditions.

It’s not a compromise if both sides of the argument get what they want.

Introducing the new Porsche Panamera. The first true sports car that’s also a luxury sedan. Step on the accelerator and best in class performance and handling is undeniably present. But now, there’s a new source of exhilaration executive class comfort. Elegantly crafted leather seats, a remarkably spacious cabin and curves everywhere you look and touch.

With an endless amount of customization options. In short, the world’s most thrilling contradiction. Experience it for yourself, with a test drive.

The new Porsche Panamera.

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EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING TRIUMPHANT FUTURES ONE LOCAL SCHOOL’S PROVEN FORMULA FOR SUCCESS, BOTH EDUCATIONALLY AND SPIRITUALLY, HAS STOOD THE TEST OF TIME

By Molly Golubcow

FOR OVER 50 YEARS, ST. AUGUSTINE

Preparatory School has lived true to its mission: Setting hearts on fire with a passionate search for Truth, Unity and Love. Founded by the Order of St. Augustine (Augustinians), the school continues hold its deep roots of brotherhood and camaraderie. The impressive campus, located in rural South Jersey, offers students opportunities for academic excellence as well as state of the art sports facilities — all contributing to making the school a nurturing and caring environment educationally and spiritually.

Preparing students for the future, academically and as community members, is a number one priority at St. Augustine. Fr. Donald F. Reilly, OSA, President, explains the importance of guiding their students to adulthood. “St. Augustine prepares its students to embrace every community with which they affiliate,” says Fr. Reilly. “By giving our students the confidence to lead, the capacity to think independently, and the ability to remain resilient, we know they leave St. Augustine ready to continue their work as change agents in any community.”

What Makes St. Augustine Prep Unique?

Dedicated to independent Catholic education with Augustinian values, the school provides a solid foundation where superior academics, strength of character, and extraordinary athletics flourish.

In addition to educating young men and preparing them for the future, St. Augustine Prep thrives to instill a sense of truth and honor in their students that guides them into adulthood. Proudly displayed in every classroom on campus, the words of the Honor Code are subtle reminders of an institution-wide commitment to preserve the ethical pursuit of truth. The entire St. Augustine community — students, faculty, staff, and administration — are united in this commitment.

Student Life Current enrollment is 693 students and entrance is very competitive.

The student body is comprised of young men from all seven counties in southern New Jersey. All students are initiated into the community or “The Brotherhood” through a ceremony designed to teach new students the importance of building-up and supporting one another. The Brotherhood Ceremony culminates with Senior students helping the Freshmen into their blazers.

Academically, the school offers five concentrations, ranging from science and engineering to business technology to fine arts. In addition, each student takes computer coding, public speaking, and lifetime fitness skills courses before graduating to gain life skills that help them academically, professionally, and personally. The school also offers students over 30 clubs and extra-curricular activities to enhance their four year experience, including Honor Society, French Club, Robotics, and Model Congress.

Nothing illustrates the success of St. Augustine Prep more than the satisfaction heard from the students themselves. Vincent Dragone (Class of 2015) explains his fondness for the school, “There is no other place in the 30

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world … where I feel completely at home. That single emotion I feel while at The Prep causes me to look forward to every minute spent on campus.”

Athletic Opportunities St. Augustine Prep takes great pride in the education of the entire student: mind, body, and spirit. Consistent with this mission, the school has enjoyed a distinguished tradition of excellence in developing scholar athletes.

Athletics at The Prep is an integral component of the school’s program and improves the scholar/athlete’s academic performance. Sports options are available to the entire student body and consistently promote responsibility, confidence, goal setting, motivation, accountability, and other important life skills that teenage boys need.

Students have access to a myriad of athletic programs with varsity, junior varsity, and freshman teams in baseball, wrestling, bowling, football, golf, tennis, and many more. With 125 acres of property and an Olympicsized pool, the school provides many of its own fields and facilities to help students realize their athletic talents to their fullest potential. The Prep has several nationally-recognized teams and has won New Jersey State Championships in the last five years in baseball, crew, and basketball.

Life Goals St. Augustine Prep is an ideal academic, social, and spiritual environment where truth, unity, and love are the common values shared by students and faculty alike. The goal set for every student is to, “enter as boys to learn; leave as men to serve.”

After four productive and life-changing years, each young man leaves St. Augustine with a greater sense of himself, a better understanding of his faith, and a capacity to act upon his goals. These students thrive in their surroundings and truly leave as mature young men ready to serve others, family, and their community to the best of their abilities.

For more information about St. Augustine Prep, call 856-697-2600 or visit www.hermits.com. n

Williams as Mork

Robin Williams

Can We Talk?

Remembering comedy luminaries Joan Rivers and Robin Williams

A

n autumn chill was blowing down the Boardwalk as we wrapped production of another episode of Curtain Call, the entertainment show I’ve been hosting and co-producing on WMGM-TV NBC40 for the past eight years. Yet our shoot that October night in 2006 was anything but routine, because our guest was more than just another casino headliner.

She was a comedy legend. But more than that, she was a friend of nearly 30 years. Her name was Joan Rivers, and we became friends after the first time she performed in Atlantic City in 1978. Joan was among the early entertainers to play at what was originally known as Resorts International Hotel & Casino, the first casino to open on the boardwalk, and where we were taping that night. Jake Glassey, Jr., my producer and television production partner for more than 20 years, was breaking down and packing up the lights, microphones and cameras along with our associate producer, Tom Morgenweck, Jr. Joan and I stood out of the way and talked about things that wouldn’t have been very interesting in front of the camera, mostly personal stuff.

The subject of marriage came up. Joan had remained single after her 32

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husband, Edgar Rosenberg, committed suicide in 1987. She knew I’d been divorced for a while.

“Marriages should only be good for seven years,” she said. “That’s it.

You can renew it if you want, but after seven years, you should be able to just walk away with no strings attached. If I was still married to Edgar, I’d kill myself.”

I immediately responded without even considering the impact of my words.

“He beat you to it.”

We all momentarily froze in place — Jake and Tommy, Joan and me.

Being friends is one thing. But crossing the line with that unedited remark — even the very wide and forgiving Joan Rivers line — was entirely different. I took her hand in mine. Before I could stammer out an apology, she burst into laughter.

“Oh, that’s funny,” she said between laughs. “That is so f-----g funny.”

I tried to apologize; she wouldn’t hear of it.

“There’s nothing to apologize for,” she said. “Funny is funny. I’m going to use it tonight.”

LIFESTYLE ENTERTAINMENT by DAVID J. SPATZ

Joan Rivers I walked her to her dressing room to say goodbye. I planned to watch her work from the back of showroom, but wouldn’t be backstage after the show. I knew she’d have a big crowd of friends and casino customers waiting to see her.

About an hour later, in front of a sell-out crowd in Resorts’ Superstar Theater, she began her discussion about marriage. She explained how marriages should only be good for seven years, because after that, spouses begin hating one another. She said if she was still married to Edgar, she’d kill herself, but he beat her to it.

The audience exploded with laugher. Joan, a master of comic timing, let the laugh happen. But before moving onto her next topic, she quietly and quickly said into the microphone, “Thank you, David.”

I smiled from my spot in the back of the room and made a mental note to email her and ask for the $5 fee she paid whenever she bought a joke.

Joan was 81 when she died on September 4. In spite of her ruthlessness on the red carpet or as host of Fashion Police, plus her uncensored language — she could drop an f-bomb with the best of them — Joan was one of the most sensitive and caring people I’ve known in or out of show business.

Whenever we spoke on the phone or backstage or at the dinner table, the first thing she wanted to know was “how’s the family, how’re the kids (and, later, “how’s the granddaughter”). She wanted to know everything about my personal life first. Only then was it okay to talk shop. She was that way from the beginning of our friendship until the last time we spoke about a year ago.

As the nature of casino entertainment changed, our in-person encounters became fewer. She began doing one-night-stands in Atlantic City. She preferred driving in from New York to work two shows in one night and then returning to the city to sleep in her own bed instead of a hotel.

The news of her hospitalization, of being placed on life support and then her death hit like a sucker punch. Nobody saw it coming. No one was ready for it, least of all Joan.

Between all of her gigs — comedy shows, TV programs, personal appearances, QVC — she was already booked well into 2015. That was one thing about Joan you could take to the bank: She never missed a paycheck.

When she turned 80, I asked if she’d given any thought to reducing her work schedule so she could enjoy the fortune she’d amassed. She reacted in mock horror but with a great line, which I suspect had a core of truth.

“Are you crazy?” she asked me. “I can’t stop working. I’m supporting three plastic surgeons and their families!”

In the past six months, death has robbed us of three of the brightest and sharpest comedy minds ever. There was David Brenner, Joan’s former comedy tour partner; Robin Williams, who Joan considered “so above all of us;” and now Joan, who was — whether she liked it or not — the grand dame of comedy.

If there’s a comedy club in heaven and they put those three on the same bill, it will only prove that God really does have a sense of humor.

Robin’s Standing Ovation As an Atlantic City native who’s covered casino entertainment here since Day One 36 years ago, I’ve occasionally been asked to give visiting first-time entertainers the nickel tour of the town. And the most memorable drive-around happened one night 30 years ago with an entertainer who was not of this planet.

Two years removed from his alien character Mork from the planet Ork on the ABC sitcom Mork & Mindy, Robin Williams made his Atlantic City debut.

Williams had become a major star as a result of the series. As a standup comedian, every casino was offering him a blank check to get his signature on a contract. The old Sands Hotel & Casino won the “Book Robin Williams Sweepstakes.”

A few days before his weekend gig in the 750-seat Copa Room nightclub, I was asked to show Robin around town. It was his first time in Atlantic City. Originally from Chicago, he’d moved to the San Francisco Bay area early in his career, and that’s where he was living when he ended his life on Aug. 11.

I was told Williams preferred to arrive in a city the day before a gig so he could get familiar with a town he was playing for the first time. The Sands provided a non-descript Lincoln Town Car for our sortie, not one of those big stretch limos. Covert missions require covert transportation.

Robin’s manager David Steinberg (not the comedian), hopped in the front passenger seat. Robin and I climbed into the back. Initially, he reminded me of one of his comedic influences, George Carlin. Like Carlin, Robin was very quiet and introverted out of the spotlight.

The driver took us on a circuitous route around the city that I had planned. I pointed out the salient sights, everything from the glittery new casinos to the city’s seamy underbelly.

Robin had an occasional off-the-cuff quip when he saw something that piqued his interest. He seemed particularly intrigued by the fashion sense of the hookers along Pacific Avenue, but purely in a comic sense. njlifestyleonline.com

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Lifestyle Entertainment

Scheherazade & Beethoven Stefan Jackiw

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For most of the ride, however, he was content to let me do the talking while he made mental notes. Before returning to the Sands, I asked if he wanted to see the boardwalk, and we walked about five or six blocks along the world’s most famous wooden avenue.

“What’s with all the crippled people?” he asked me quietly. “Is everyone who comes here sick or something?”

I wasn’t sure what he meant.

“What’s with all the wheelchairs?” he asked.

I laughed and patiently explained that they weren’t wheelchairs for the infirm; they were “rolling chairs,” which for almost a century were an alternative means of boardwalk transportation for people who had a few extra bucks in their pockets and were willing to pay to be pushed along the boards.

We returned to the Sands, had dinner in the Brighton Steak House and said goodnight.

The following evening, every seat in the Copa Room was filled. Between the invited high rollers and the few lucky fans able to purchase tickets, they were still adding extra seats at the last minute and hoping the city fire marshal wouldn’t pay them a visit.

Robin got a standing ovation the moment he stepped into the spotlight, and proceeded to do 90 minutes of the most manically funny comedy performances I’ve ever seen. He seemed to be making a lot of it up as he went along which, I later discovered, he did.

But even more amazing was that after just a few hours in a car the previous night — and a 30-minute walk on the Boardwalk — he had Atlantic City so dialed you’d have sworn he’d been born and raised here.

I saw him briefly after the show and congratulated him on a successful debut. He thanked me again for my backseat Atlantic City 101 course.

Fast forward to 2009. Robin Williams, abovethe-title movie star, arena headliner and milliondollar-a-show act, was returning to Atlantic City with his Weapons of Self-Destruction Tour which, when you think about his suicide death, was a somewhat prophetic name for the show.

I did a phone interview with him a week before his gig. It was the first time we’d spoken in 25 years. I reminded him of our chance encounter from years earlier; he said he remembered, but I was doubtful he really did.

After his opening night show at Borgata, we met backstage and I introduced myself as his “tour guide” from 1984. He gave me a bear hug and then asked me how the “sick people” are doing.

I wasn’t quite sure what he meant.

“You know, the crippled people on the Boardwalk in the wheelchairs,” he said before bursting out in laughter.

Doubts dispelled. Turns out he really did remember that night a quarter-century earlier. n

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LIFESTYLE LEGACY by Michelle Dawn Mooney

For the Love of the Game One Man’s Strategy on Stepping Up to the Plate Against Cancer

I

t was two years ago, at my wedding, when I first met my husband’s best friend, Ken. Little did I know that two years later I would be attending a memorial service held after Ken lost a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 49. I know that’s a pretty hardhitting subject to tackle so early on in an article, but trust me, this story is one with an unexpectedly uplifting ending, written by Ken himself. Working in news, I’m all too familiar with how so many are hurting right now, whether it’s from lost jobs, lost relationships, the loss of loved ones, or health concerns … which is all the more reason I wanted to share this with you.

Hailing from Syracuse, New York, Ken Shepard’s roots were seeped in baseball. He loved playing it, watching it, and for more than 25 years, managing it. At the age of 23, he became the youngest man ever to manage a minor league baseball team. If his name sounds familiar, that may be because he made South Jersey his home for a short time as the first president and general manager of the Atlantic City Surf. His sixth and final stop was with the Bridgeport Bluefish in Connecticut, where he continued to implement his innovative ideas, even securing former Phillies legend Pete Rose to serve as manager for the

day. The team actually planned a special “Ken Shepard Day” at the park to help raise funds for his medical needs, but Ken would not live to see it, as he passed away just eight days before the event.

Now many of you may be asking how this story in any way could be considered uplifting. How could any bright spot be seen in a chapter of life where cancer takes away a husband of 20 years and a father of a 16-yearold girl and 7-year-old boy? Well, here’s where it takes that turn, as Ken’s perspective on this is what I find nothing short of amazing.

Over the course of the last two years, when Ken’s prognosis seemed to continually take a turn for the worse, Ken was determined to do something I’m not sure I could have done. He upheld the vow he made when he was first diagnosed. He promised himself two things, “I won’t get angry at God, and I won’t ask why.”

During this time, Ken kept a journal about things he learned, realizations he made, and lessons he hoped to pass along after he was gone. The following words were some of the most impacting I have ever heard.

While they don’t apply directly to everyone, their sentiment speaks volumes of how even through what seem like unimaginable circumstances, it is possible to see a purpose

The Shepard family (Ken, wife Tonya, son Travis, daughter Taylor)

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Ken & Tonya at Michelle’s wedding in Oct. 2012

and find a positive outlook. It’s no surprise that there wasn’t a dry eye in the church when these words that Ken wrote were spoken during the service.

“Cancer is my blessing because God heard me ask Him to allow it to be in me and not my kids.”

“Cancer is my blessing because it has taught me to really appreciate life.”

“Cancer is my blessing because it has shown me how much I’m loved.”

“Cancer is my blessing because it brought old friends back together.”

“Cancer is my blessing because it helps me to see God everywhere.”

“Cancer is my blessing because you can work on your legacy.”

“Cancer is my blessing because it has heightened my desire to grow deeper in my relationships.”

“Cancer is my blessing because it gives me what so many other people do not get a chance to say … goodbye.”

As ugly as cancer can be, Ken truly saw his circumstances to be a gift that allowed him to laugh a little harder, love a little deeper, and live a life that was more meaningful. As we draw closer to that time of year when all of us are asked to reflect on the things we are thankful for, it’s often hard to see past the pain brought about through uncontrollable circumstances that turn our world upside down without warning. What we can control is our perspective, and perspective changes everything. Ken loved the game of baseball, but what he loved even more was the game of life. During this time of year, let’s not forget that every day is, in fact, a gift. In the words of Ken Shepard, “Enjoy every minute you have.” n

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LifeStyle Travel By DAN SCHLOSSBERG

A Somber Reminder Visit Ground Zero and experience the poignant, lifechanging 9/11 Museum. You will never be the same.

F

ROM TIME IMMEMORIAL, AMERICANS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN fascinated with disaster. The San Francisco earthquake, the sinking of the Titanic, and the explosion of the Hindenburg come to mind immediately. But nothing in recorded history could have prepared this country for what happened on September 11, 2001.

On that black date, four planes commandeered by Arab terrorists were deliberately crashed — one into each of the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, another into the Pentagon, and a third into a rural Pennsylvania field after alert passengers revolted.

Since New York encountered the heaviest and most traumatic losses, the museum devotes most of its space to what happened there.

Remembering that those who ignore history are condemned to repeat it, political leaders of the hardest-hit city and state forced themselves to remember those events and tell their story in minute detail.

It took nearly 13 years but the 9/11 Museum opened in Lower Manhattan on May 21, 2014 in the shadow of the new World Trade Center. Though hard to find on the surface and even harder to digest in person, the museum is a myriad of geometrical shapes on the outside and a mix of multi-media technology on the inside. It also lies beneath street level, carved out of the excavated remnants of the original structures.

Many of those remnants remain, from “survivor steps” only partially melted by the heat of the burning jet fuel to a beleaguered pear tree that bloomed again after it was restored to health in a public park. There are twisted girders and elevator parts; smashed rescue vehicles; pieces of plane fuselage; and such personal items as the watch worn by Todd Beamer, one of the leaders of the passenger revolt that probably saved the Capitol Building.

Even more poignant are snippets of cell phone conversations between doomed passengers and loved ones, letters written by children to missing parents, and engraved names of nearly 3,000 people who perished in New York, Washington, and Shanksville, Pa. Also included are the six people who died when terrorists bombed the same structures previously, in 1993.

One phone comment, captured on the wall of the museum, is a message from a man in his office to his wife at home. “A plane has just

crashed into World Trade Center 1. Don’t worry. I’m in World Trade Center 2.”

Minutes later, that hope of survival evaporated.

Nobody was safe — either in the Twin Towers or on the ground below. Steel pieces of plane and building, not to mention people who preferred jumping to burning, rained down on the streets below. And that was before both towers imploded, almost as if time suddenly stood still with the world watching in slow motion.

A myriad of photographs, videos, and newspapers from the fateful day form the heart of the museum’s content. New York City papers from September 11 contain front-page news about a political primary to be held that day. Headlines from the next day, however, were considerably different. One, from the San Francisco Chronicle, simply has one word, set in very large type over a photo of the stricken structures: BASTARDS! Unlike other museums, where exhibits seem to compete for space, this one gives both displays and visitors the wide space they need to comprehend the enormity of the raid. Sandwiched between reflecting pools that represent the sites of World Trade Center One and World Trade Center Two, the museum traces the history of the attacks, starting with an enormous map depicting the routes of the four hijacked planes.

There’s almost too much information on the perpetrators, from Al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden to the 19 young recruits who were willing to murder thousands in the name of religious fanaticism. All the familiar news faces are there: NBC’s Matt Lauer, with much more hair, and CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, reporting the events as they broke, and Brian Williams, delivering a dossier on the deranged attackers and their handlers.

The museum tries to bring visitors back in time 13 years, when movie hits Superman II, Working Girl, and Woody Allen’s New York Stories marked the end of an age of innocence. Facebook would not be invented for another three years, but cell phone technology helped prevent an even greater loss of life.

When passengers on hijacked Flight 93 heard about the attacks in New York and Washington, their actions prevented the terrorist pilot from flying that plane into the Capitol Building. Intent on completing his suicide mission with as many victims as possible, he crashed it into an njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 39

Lifestyle Travel

Ground Zero art. Photo by Dan Schlossberg.

World Trade Center’s reflecting pool Photo by Jin Lee

open field in Shanksville, Pa. The 9/11 Museum has separate alcoves on that crash, the plunge into the Pentagon, and the less-damaging bombing of the World Trade Center eight years earlier. In fact, nothing is left uncovered. The collection includes 23,000 still images, 12,500 artifacts, 2,100 archival documents, 1,900 oral histories, and 580 hours of film and video. Partners in piecing it together included Voices of September 11th, Project Rebirth, Tuesday’s Children, StoryCorps, 9/11 Day, and 9/11 Tribute Center. Total construction cost was $700 million.

Because its annual operating cost tops $60 million, museum tickets are expensive: $29.95 for adults, $20.90 for seniors, and $18.95 for children 12 and under, with discounts for online purchase. Tickets are also timed to avoid overcrowding inside the museum. More than 14 million people have visited the 9/11 Memorial site since it opened on the 10th anniversary of the 2001 attacks.

Both the memorial and the museum are located in Lower Manhattan between Greenwich and West Street, near Fulton.

Many visitors arrive by mass transit, with trains of both PATH (Port Authority Trans Hudson) and New York’s MTA (Metropolitan Transit Authority) within walking distance. Savvy visitors can find the site by working their way to the base of the new World Trade Center.

For more information, contact www.911memorial.org, www. names.911memorial.org, or www.911memorial.org/blog. n Former AP newsman Dan Schlossberg of Fair Lawn, NJ is the host of Travel Itch Radio and travel editor of both New Jersey Lifestyle and Sirius XM Satellite Radio’s Maggie Linton Show. He is also the founder and president emeritus of the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA).

Ground Zero Twin Tower models Photo by Dan Schlossberg

Ground Zero faces Photo by Dan Schlossberg

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LIFESTYLE TRIVIA

Let’s Do the

Numbers

By SHERRY HOFFMAN

Think you know everything about the Garden State?

Test your knowledge with these fun facts.

T

here’s no denying we’re a society that lives and breaths numbers.

Nothing is official unless there’s a number attached to it. So here, in no particular order of importance, are some numbers associated with New Jersey. Some you may know; others may come as a surprise.

Commit them to memory. Store them away in the recesses of your brain. Because you never know if you’ll need them during Final Absecon Lighthouse

Jeopardy when you’re about to break Ken Jennings’ record.

1. How many people watched the first televised surgery (it took place in Atlantic City)?

15,000 In December 1949, CBS received approval from the FCC to broadcast Smith, Kline & French’s medical programming over WMARTV in Baltimore and WCBS-TV in New York.

Surgical procedures in Atlantic City Hospital (now AtlantiCare) were televised to 15,000 viewers attending the America Medical Association convention – 1,000 at a time – in Atlantic City’s Convention Hall. The response from viewers was tremendous. For some, it was too realistic. Several witnesses fainted as they watched the procedures on the color monitors.

2. How many pipes in the Atlantic City Auditorium Organ?

33,112 Silenced for nearly 70 years after it was damaged during the cataclysmic Hurricane of 1944, the world’s largest pipe organ, in Boardwalk Hall, has only recently begun playing again thanks to an ambitious restoration project. Since much of the organ is made from wood, repairing water and humidity damage is an important aspect of the work still to be done during the 10-year, $16 million dollar project by the non-profit Historic Organ 42

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Restoration Committee (HORC). The organ has 33,112 pipes, which range in length from a couple of inches to six stories high.

3. How many steps in the Absecon Lighthouse?

228 New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse – and, at 171 feet tall, the third highest in the nation – sits at the corner of Pacific and Rhode Island Avenues in Atlantic City. It’s no longer used as an aid to navigation to mariners, but that doesn’t make it any less of an impressive feat of architecture and engineering, especially considering it was built in 1856 – just two years after Atlantic City was created – and initially lit in 1857. Take an amazing journey back in time and above it all as you ascend the 228 steps of the Absecon Lighthouse (affectionately known as “Abby”). You’ll see breathtaking views of the Atlantic City skyline and up top you’ll come face-to-face with the original, first-order Fresnel Lens.

4. How long is the Atlantic City Boardwalk?

A little over four miles Before it was forever altered by the destructive Hurricane of 1944, Atlantic City’s first-in-the-world Boardwalk was about seven miles long and it extended well beyond the city’s border into Ventnor, Margate, and Longport. The first Boardwalk was a temporary structure. Planks of wood were laid atop the beach to keep beach goers from

tracking sands into hotel lobbies and onto the cars of passenger trains, and the boards were picked up and stored every winter. The first “modern” Boardwalk – raised off the sand – was built in 1884 and was washed away by a storm five years later. The Boardwalk today is more than four miles long and 60 feet across at its widest point. One urban myth about the Boardwalk: It never snows on the world’s most famous wooden avenue. The reality is that the Boardwalk, is among the first “streets” plowed during a snowstorm to keep it accessible to fire trucks and other firstresponse vehicles.

5. What’s the Cape May-Lewes Ferry’s top speed?

18 mph More than 11 million vehicles and 34 million passengers have made the 17-mile crossing between Cape May, NJ and Lewes, DE since the interstate ferry line began sailing on July 1, 1964 – 50 years ago. The route across the mouth of the Delaware Bay close to where it meets the ocean also doubles as a salt water extension of U.S. Route 9. The ferry’s three vessels can each carry 100 cars and trucks, and 1,000 passengers. They’re each 320 feet long – the length of a football field – and have a beam (width) of 68 feet. Their top speed is 18 mph.

6. How many bakeries in Atlantic City make Atlantic City bread?

2 Atlantic City bread, particularly those torpedoshaped rolls, have become the edible carrying containers of another Atlantic City tradition: those overstuffed sandwiches known as subs.

The two dominant bakeries in town, and the ones that supply sub shops throughout the area with their freshly-based rolls, are Formica Brother’s Bakery and Rando Bakery. Formica’s has been a staple in the city’s Ducktown section for nearly a century. Their ovens work ‘round the clock as they continually bake rolls and deliver them still-warm to their customers, often several times a day. Rando, which operates within sniffing distance of Formica’s offers its retail customers a quasi do-it-yourself experience. They par-bake their bread 50% of the way done and then let the consumer finish it off in their home over for 10 minutes.

7. How much does Lucy the Elephant weigh?

90 tons

Absecon Island’s portly ponderous pachyderm, Lucy the Elephant in Margate is easily the world’s largest elephant. One walk through her belly will show you why she deserves her designation as a National Historic Landmark. Lucy was built in 1881 by James V. Lafferty, a real estate developer with a knack for promotion. Standing six stories tall, she weighs in at a svelte 90 tons. Lucy was – and remains – a functioning building, initially serving as a real estate office, then as a summer home, even briefly as a tavern until unruly drunks nearly burned her down.

Although she’s an only child today, Lafferty originally made sure she had family. He built Lucy a brother in Cape May and a sister on Coney Island. Lucy, however, is the last elephant standing.

8. How many men and women go through boot camp each year at United States Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May?

4,000 Every enlisted sailor in the United States Coast Guard calls the training center at Cape May home for the first eight weeks of his or her service. The sprawling facility adjacent to Cape May harbor and near the entrance to Cold Spring Inlet is the fifth largest Coast Guard base in the country and the only base where recruits undergo boot camp – 4,000 greenhorns every year. Unlike other branches of the service, the Coast Guard is the only one that’s part of the Department of Homeland Security. TRACEN Cape May has a wide variety of all sizes of boats and ships that call the center home, including the 210foot USCG Dependable.

overwhelmed by the honor and didn’t realize her many promotional responsibilities. She insisted upon a much lighter schedule so that she could attend college. But ever since surrendering her crown, Cooper – at 94 is the oldest surviving Miss America – has resisted all attempts to bring her back to Atlantic City.

10. How many state symbols does New Jersey have?

19 Symbols. Every state has them. New Jersey has 19 officially-recognized state symbols.

The eastern goldfinch, for example, is the “official” state bird. The brook trout, for some unknown reason, is the official state fish. And the knobbed whelk, which you probably know better as a conch, is the state’s official shell.

Some of the Garden State’s lesser-known symbols include the square dance is the official dance; the hadrosaurus is the state dinosaur (because the first nearly complete skeleton of one was discovered in Haddonfield in 1858); the European honeybee is the official insect; the official fruit is the blueberry. And, proving that politicians never let science get in the way, the state vegetable is the tomato – even though it’s really considered a fruit that’s part of the berry family. n Lucy the Elephant

9. How many Miss America’s are from New Jersey

2 Two women from New Jersey have worn the Miss America crown, and each has a (gasp!) scandal attached to her reign. Thirty years ago, when Vanessa Williams became the first black Miss America, she also became the first queen to have to surrender her title because of a nude photo scandal. Her successor – for all of six weeks – was the first runner-up, Miss New Jersey Suzette Charles. Charles, who was from Mays Landing, became the first Miss New Jersey since 1937 to wear the tiara. That year, Bette Cooper, a 17-year-old from Bertrand Island, up and vanished for 24 hours after winning the title. Turns out she spent the night hiding out on a boat with her (male) chaperone. Cooper was apparently njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 43

LifeStyle On Wheels

CONCEPT UALLY APPEALING Today’s concept cars expertly combine form and function, seamlessly creating wheeled works of art

BY ELAINE ROSE

Buick Riviera Concept Car Photos courtesy of 3d-car-shows.com

T

HINK SLEEK EXTERIORS.

Think metallic colors. Think spacious interiors. Think fuel-efficient. Think high-tech. If the concept cars on display at auto shows around the world are any indication, those terms are a good description of what we’ll be driving in a few years. Three cars made their debuts last year 44

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on three different continents, catering to potential drivers with both practical and exotic tastes. While these cars are not yet rolling off the assembly lines, the ideas are forming in designers’ minds. And car enthusiasts like what they see.

Unless you live among the Amish in Lancaster County, or in some other locale

with no access to television, you can’t avoid the commercials about how today’s Buicks aren’t what your parents — or even your older siblings — rode around in. But what’s old is new again, General Motors seemed to be saying as it introduced a revived Buick Riviera at last year’s Shanghai Auto Show.

The Riviera was a big seller in the United

CrossBlue Concept Car by Volkswagen

Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept Car States for more than three decades, having been manufactured from 1963 to 1999. But these days, the most demand for Buicks is in China. So GM chose Shanghai for the introduction of the new Riviera concept car.

Some experts say this car is a sign of the future of the entire Buick line.

The concept Riviera was designed in Asia, and was given flowing lines and swirls to represent water, a favorite symbol among the Chinese. But low-riding style of the new model keeps it in sync with the Rivieras of days gone by. The interior is made of ebony and lava-colored suede, reminiscent of jade-inlaid wood.

But it is the driving features that will impress tech-savvy Americans — if the new Riviera is ever built for sale in the United States. The driver can choose whether to move the car as a typical hybrid, using both gasoline and the battery, or by battery power alone. The concept Riviera is equipped with ten cameras and eighteen sensors, to inform the driver of possible hazards via a holographic screen on the windshield. These devices can warn the driver if the car drifts out of its lane,

if something is in the blind spot, a toddler in the driveway, and other possible dangers of the road. The Riviera also has four-wheel steering and electromagnetic suspension for better handling in tough driving conditions.

Some aspects of the design, such as the deeply-slanted windshield, are only for show and will probably never be seen on the roadways. But the vertical grille and wingshaped running lights will likely become standard features on GM cars, according to industry experts.

Halfway around the world, Volkswagen introduced its hybrid plug-in CrossBlue concept car at last year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Built as both a seven-seat SUV and a slightly smaller five-seat CrossCoupe, some say the CrossBlue SUV may eventually replace VW’s Touareg or Tiguan. Both Cross models feature a grille made of two struts and connecting to narrow slits that house the headlights.

The car-review website topspeed.com describes the CrossBlue SUV as “really big and masculine ... makes for an imposing ride,” with its emphasis on a long hood and large wheels.

At more than sixteen feet long and about sixand-a-half feet wide, this vehicle will definitely command respect on the street.

The CrossBlue has unique “fuel doors,” as Volkswagen calls them, topspeed.com pointed out. The diesel-fuel tank and Selective Catalyctic Reduction reservoir are located on the right-rear of the vehicle, and two electrical outlets are on the driver’s side. The first outlet connects to a source of electricity to charge the battery. The second can be used to plug in devices like lamps and coolers, so owners can use the battery’s power to make life more comfortable at campsites and tailgate parties.

The spacious interior is a major advantage of the CrossBlue, according to the topspeed. com review. The rear seats are somewhat higher than those in the front, giving backseat passengers a better view of the scenery ahead of them. There is plenty of headroom and legroom, making the car comfortable even for tall people. The trunk can hold 11.8 cubic feet of luggage, groceries, or other cargo, and expands to 28.7 cubic feet if the third-row seats are folded. For even larger loads, the second-row seats can also be released. And to njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 45

On Wheels

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keep the kids entertained on long trips, the frontseat headrests are furnished with iPad minis.

The CrossBlue holds a powerful engine, with a six-speed DSG transmission, a Volkswagen invention that can be operated as either automatic or semi-manual. The driver can choose to operate the SUV as a conventional hybrid, or can switch to the fuel-saving Eco mode or the powerful Sport mode. The driver also has the option of using four-wheel drive or just the front wheels. The SUV can go from zero to sixty in 7.2 seconds, with a maximum speed of 127 miles per hour. That might work well on the German Autobahns, but it’s more than enough power for any American highway.

The CrossCoupe concept car has five seats, and its hybrid engine can be quite thrifty, getting up to 94 miles per gallon. But Volkswagen has no immediate plans to manufacture this version for sale to the public.

If speed is your thing — and money is no object — it’s time for a trip back across the pond to Europe, where British automaker Aston Martin introduced the CC100 concept car as part of its 100th Anniversary celebration. The two-seat racing car was the brainchild of Aston Martin’s design director Marek Reichman and exterior designer Miles Nurnberger. It bears a strong resemblance to the Aston Martin DBR1 that won the1959 LeMans and Nurburgring races. A video on the company’s website shows the CC100 being hand-built and decorated with loving care at the headquarters in Gaydon, England. It took six months to design and build this car.

The CC100 was introduced to auto enthusiasts last year at the ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nurburgring race in Germany. Dr. Ulrich Bez, who was CEO of Aston Martin at the time, drove the CC100 once around the 15.5-mile track, accompanied by the 1959 race-winning DBR1, driven by Sir Stirling Moss.

“CC100 is the epitome of everything that is great about Aston Martin,” Bez said at the time.

“It represents our fantastic sporting heritage, exceptional design capability, superb engineering know-how, and above all, our adventurous spirit.”

The reviewers at topspeed.com say the CC100 can go from zero to sixty in just over four seconds, and reach speeds of up to 180 miles per hour. It has a six-liter, twelve-cylinder engine, with hydraulically activated sequential manual transmission. The car is nearly fifteen feet long and almost six feet wide.

The Aston Martin website offers no clues as to whether the CC100 will ever be produced for sale. But if that day comes, be prepared to shell out a small fortune for the privilege of driving it.

Pre-owned Aston Martins on the market in the United States are priced from $63,000 all the way up to nearly $300,000.

But rest assured, it is one sweet ride. n

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LIFESTYLE | Summer 2014 47

TOP 10

LIFESTYLE LEGENDS By SHERRY HOFFMAN

Football Films

Fall isn’t just falling leaves and pumpkins. What it’s really about is football.

Here are our top ten football films. Grab some wings and chips and enjoy.

1. Invincible (2006)

Based on a true story, Vince Papale — a 30-year-old bartender and unemployed teacher — shows up for an open try out for the Philadelphia Eagles. Coach Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear), new to the team and trying to jumpstart the Eagles after a string of losing seasons, brings Papale (Mark Wahlberg) to training camp, and he actually wins a roster spot. After a disappointing NFL debut in his first game, Papale recovers a fumble and returns it for a touchdown against the New York Giants in his second game, thus securing Dick Vermeil’s first victory as the Eagles’ head coach.

2. Knute Rockne All American (1940)

This classic football film is a biography of legendary Notre Dame University football coach Knute Rockne (Pat O’Brien). The film’s screenplay — a sort of true version of the fictional film “Rudy” — was based on private papers held by Rockne’s wife and by Notre Dame. Rockne had died nine years before the film’s release. The movie actually features old newsreel clips of games against traditional rival, including Army. Rockne, the father of the forward pass, was also known for his inspirational halftime speeches, which are depicted in the film. The movie also starred a young “B” actor named Ronald Reagan 40 years before he was elected President. Reagan played the flippant but private George Gipp, who delivered the oft-parodied “win one for the Gipper speech.” One of the first football movies ever made, it remains one of only two movies ever filmed on Notre Dame’s campus.

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3. Rudy (1993)

Based on a true story, Rudy Ruettiger (Sean Astin) is from a steel mill town and has always dreamed of playing football for Notre Dame. But he was told he was too small, and besides, he didn’t have the grades to make it into the competitive school. He earns the grades he needs at a junior college, and makes the Notre Dame squad as a walk-on, but never actually dressed for a game. But after proving himself to his teammates by being battered bloody as a member of the “scout” team, the players threaten to quit and virtually force the coach into allowing Rudy to dress. Finally, the coach lets Rudy play on the final kickoff, to the joy of his family. Rudy stays in for the final play of the game, sacks the Georgia Tech quarterback, and to cheers from the stadium, is carried off the field on his teammates’

4. We Are Marshall (2006)

This historical drama is based on the 1970 plane crash that killed 37 members of Marshall University’s football team along with five coaches and other team and school personnel. The film addresses the rebuilding of the school’s football program. Matthew McConaughey stars as Marshall head coach Jack Lengyel, who has to rebuild the program, and Robert Patrick plays head coach Ricky Tolley, who died in the crash. Together, coach Lengyel and assistant coach Red Dawson (Matthew Fox), who missed the fateful flight, turn a handful of rookies and second-string players into a competitive that showed the world what they could do in a legendary game against Marshall’s arch rival, Xavier University. Because large portions of the movie were filmed in Georgia, then-Gov. Sonny Perdue had a cameo role in the film as a coach of another college team.

5. The Blind Side (2009)

Sandra Bullock won a best-actress Oscar for her role in this semi-autobiographical football film based on the 2006 book “The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game.” It tells the story of Michael Oher, an offensive lineman for the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and how he overcame (with the help of Bullock’s character’s family) his impoverished background to win a college scholarship and ultimately become a first-round NFL pick. Oher was one of 13 children by a mother addicted to crack. He’s rescued from the streets by a wealthy white Evangelical family and begins playing football. Two forces turn Oher into the type of man and player he becomes: his rescue family’s love, and the evolution of professional football into a game where the quarterback must be protected at any cost. Oher has the combination of size, speed, and agility necessary to guard the quarterback’s greatest vulnerability, his blind side. Quinton Aaron turns in a brilliant performance as Oher, with other standout roles by country singer-turned-actor Tim McGraw and Oscar winner Kathy Bates.

6. Heaven Can Wait (1978)

A remake of the 1941 comedy “Here Comes Mr. Jordan,” this film tells the story of all-pro NFL quarterback Joe Pendleton (Warren Beatty), whose trip to the Super Bowl gets sidetracked when a “heavenly escort” (Buck Henry) messes around with the whole “probability and outcome” order of how people end up in heaven. He brings Pendelton to heaven seconds before it appears he’ll suffer a grisly death. But he was supposed to survive the incident. Ordinarily, the escort’s boss, Mr. Jordan, would have restored Pendleton to his original body — but his wife has him cremated. Hence begins the search for a new body that can hold up to the rigors of the NFL. Remaking films, no matter how old or forgotten, can be a risky proposition. But this slightly screwball comedy — with lots of funny little twists and turns — is one of the most under-appreciated films of its era. There’s a reason why this film received nine Oscar nominations, including best picture.

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 49

7. Horse Feathers (1932)

The Marx Brothers star in this hilarious film that revolves around a college football game between two fictional colleges, Huxley and Darwin. Way ahead of its time, the movie makes jokes about the “amateur” status of college football players and how coaches and athletic departments stretch the eligibility rules to keep a good player on the field. Groucho Marx plays Quincy Adams Wagstaff, Huxley College’s new president. Brother Zeppo is cast as his son Frank, who convinces his dad to recruit professional football players to help his team. Chico Marx plays an iceman who delivers ice and bootleg booze from a local speakeasy (remember, this film was made during Prohibition). Harpo Marx is also an iceman and a part-time dogcatcher. Through a series of misunderstandings, the two icemen are recruited to play on Huxley’s football team, which requires them to enroll as students. Chaos ensues. The climax of the movie is often called one of the greatest football-related scenes in movie history, when the four protagonists win the football game by taking the ball into the end zone in a horse-drawn garbage wagon.

8. Friday Night Lights (2004)

Another reality-based football film, this one on H.G. Bissinger’s book, which looked at the economically depressed town of Odessa, Texas and their heroic high school football team, the Permian High Panthers.

Odessa is a town that’s racially divided and economically on the skids. But there’s one uniting factor in town: the school’s high school football team. Billy Bob Thornton plays first-year Permian coach Gary Gaines, who’s trying to restore some pride to the town by taking the Panthers back to the Texas state championship game. Only he has to do it without his star running back, who blew out his knee in a game early in the season. Bissinger spent the 1988 season with the Permian Panthers to research the book, and the screenplay includes much of the behind-the-scenes drama that unfolded: political and social issues, the fact that the town folks kept putting the coach on the hot seat whenever the team lost a game and the once-arrogant star running back realizing his hopes for a career in the NFL were shattered by his career-ending injury.

9. Varsity Blues (1999)

Despite lukewarm reviews, this film did massive box office when it opened 15 years ago. Coach Bud Kilmer (Jon Voight) has been the head coach of the West Canaan Coyotes for 35 years and is a legend in this small Texas town. He’s led his team to 23 district titles. But when his star quarterback goes down with an injury and he’s forced to use untested second-stringer Jonathan Moxon (James Van Der Beek), the spam really hits the fan. Moxon’s irreverent attitude and approach to football — plus his desire to earn an Ivy League diploma — come into direct conflict with the coach’s inflexible game plan. Moxon not only proves himself a quarterback, but now needs to prove he can handle the extra benefits like promiscuous cheerleaders who are hoping that bedding down with the QB can eventually be their ticket out of town.

10. Iron Major (1942)

Frank Cavanaugh (Pat O’Brien) proves himself as a football coach and a World War I hero. He leaves home to serve his country in the Great War. While on a special reconnaissance mission he is gravely wounded and almost dies of his injuries. At the hospital, he is visited by young private Manning (Russell Wade), who tells him that he has been named the “Iron Major” because of his ability to survive.

Cavanaugh is sent home and becomes a football coach. In time, he goes on to lead the Dartmouth, Boston College and Fordham football teams to victory, having one of the best winning percentages in football history. His career culminates five years later, when he goes totally blind during a game. After the game, the players present the blind Cavanaugh with the football, and he bids them farewell and resigns. The film is based on a story by Cavanaugh’s wife Flo (Ruth Warrick).

Sherry Hoffman, a freelance writer and show runner for Sherry Hoffman Public Relations, lives in Camelot II and is very proud to be a part of the Lifestyle family since its inception.

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The Social Scene

SOCIALSTUDIES

Schultz-Hill Foundation’s Lyrics and Laughter Event Raises $75,000 Well-known singer/bandleader Eddie Bruce and comedienne Tammy Pescatelli shared the stage at The Claridge Hotel’s Celebrity Theater on August 22 at the “Lyrics and Laughter at the Jersey Shore” event to benefit the Schultz-Hill Foundation’s regional music and arts programs. The event raised over $75,000.

Philadelphia native Bruce provided the “lyrics” with his classical music

From left to right, Gary Hill with Stockton College President Mr. & Mrs. Herman Saatkamp

From left to right, Mayor Don Guardian, Barbara Scarduzzio and Gary Hill

performance, and the “laughter” was provided by Pescatelli, a self-described “Italian Mom” who won Comedy Central’s 2010 Stand-up Showdown.

The Schultz-Hill Foundation supports the arts, history, and education in the South Jersey region. The foundation’s music and arts programs include student scholarships, free senior citizen shows, and the “Music Together Program” at the Atlantic City Day Nursery.

Diamond Sponsors from Morgan Stanley

L to R, Gary Hill, Kathleen Woodring, John Schultz, Joe and Bernadette Dougherty, Mayor Don Guardian, Nick Woodring

From left to right, Eddie Bruce, Gold Sponsors Bob and Helene Hordes, Tammy Pescatelli

Photos by Nick Valinote

Claudia and Eric Goldberg of AC Linen

L to R, Barbara Scarduzzio of NJ Lifestyle Magazine, Margaret and Dominic Moretti

From left to right, Dr. and Mrs. Ray with Mr. and Mrs. Dorfman

From left to right, Gold Sponsor Paul and Barbara Chan, Tammy Pescatelli, Michele and Jim Perma, Eddie Bruce njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 51

SOCIALSTUDIES

Golfing Fore a Great Cause More than 200 golfers participated in the AtlantiCare Foundation’s 26th Annual Invitational Thomas L. Glenn, Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament Monday, September 8 at Hidden Creek Golf Club, 75 Asbury Road, Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.

The tournament was presented by Glenn Insurance, Inc. Chairpersons were John Mehrlander, of Mercedes-Benz & Porsche of Atlantic City; Fran Goldstein,

L to R: tournament co-chairs John Mehrlander, Fran Goldstein and Harry Purdy

Lori Herndon enjoys a ride with Mathew Finkelson, DMD.

AtlantiCare Board of Trustees member; and Harry Purdy, of Purdy Mechanical, Inc. Proceeds from the tournament will support the AtlantiCare Foundation’s Next Generation of Care initiative, an investment in the development of people, programs and facilities that are necessary for the next generation of high-quality healthcare in the communities AtlantiCare serves.

L to R: Eugene Arnone, George Lynn, Michael Charlton and Steve Callender

Kevin Bolz (l.), pilot, and Alexander Sharnoff, Esq. pose with L to R: Lisa Dillon, Joan Glick, Mary Siracusa and the helicopter from which the golf ball drop was performed. Debbie Sykes.

Local Artist Celebrates Rehabilitation Center With Watercolors Doortje Fenwick’s “Watercolors: 2010-2012” are currently on view in the Bacharach Dining Room. Doortje, a successful architect, artist and business owner, found her life dramatically changed when she had a hemorrhagic stroke in 2009. The stroke caused her to lose the use of much of her right side, including her drawing hand. After spending weeks in the hospital, her speech was nonexistent, and she was unable to eat because of her tracheotomy tubes.

Doortje and her husband Stephen Fenwick

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Chairman of the Bacharach Board of Governors, Philip Perskie with board secretary Ron Rossi

Doortje started her rehabilitation program at Bacharach, where she began to re-learn the basic skills she needed to resume her day-to-day life. With the help of watercolor painting lessons held in the home of local artist and friend, Marilyn Brent, who teaches art at Richard Stockton College, Doortje learned to use her non-dominant left hand to create works of art again. Bacharach held a reception to thank the artist on September 9th, and staff, board members, and the public came out to honor the Linwood artist.

From Left to right, Laura Lee Smith, Abe Alfaro, and Beth Hoffman

Dorrie Papademetriou and MJ Perskie

SOCIALSTUDIES

Community Raises $14,000 for Softball All-Star Champions Local support poured in for the Northfield 13-14 Softball AllStar team’s 11 talented players as individuals and businesses raised some $14,000 for the team’s tournament expenses. The accomplished team defeated the Section 1 Champion, TriBoro, to win the New Jersey State Junior League Championship. The

The Junior Softball Allstar team

Gillian McCarthy

Gillian McCarthy

girls first loss was to the West Point, PA team, who continued on to win the Junior League World Series in Kirkland, WA. The Northfield 13-14 Softball All-Star team placed 3rd in the Eastern Regional Championship, with an overall tournament record of 9 wins and 2 losses.

Mackenzie Brennan

Gabby Monzo

Meredith Miller

Lauren Toner

Olivia Goff

Friends Gather to Support The Philly POPS Frank Giordano, President of The Philly POPS, and Dottie Giordano, co-chair of the Friends Committee of The Philly POPS, held two Friends Parties in their home in Moorestown on August 14 and at Medford Lakes Country Club on August 19 to acquaint neighbors with the NEW Philly POPS. On both occasions, the Brass Quintet of The Philly POPS performed and the Giordano’s hosted dinner.

L to R: Louis Scaglione, COO Philly POPS; Bob Gravener, POPS Festival Brass member; Larry Simpson, Philly POPS Development Director; Linda Tisa; Frank Giordano II; and Charles Coyle

The Philly POPS is the largest stand-alone POPS orchestra in America, entertaining audiences with an eclectic mix of musical genres – from Big Band to Broadway, from Gershwin to the Beatles and beyond. As a founding resident company of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the orchestra boasts a blend of the best musicians from the Philadelphia region. For information and subscriptions to the 2014-2015 concert season, visit www.phillypops.org.

From left to right, Frank Shickling, Frank Giordano and Jim Brennan

From left to right, Maureen Murphy, Frank Giordano and Angela Lutz-Muller

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SOCIALSTUDIES

The Social Scene Annual Financial Forum a Success CRA Financial held their annual Financial Forum at the Atlantic City Country Club on Wednesday, September 17th with guest speakers from Brandywine Global and Lord Abbott. Topics included global fixed income strategies, the

capital market, global bonds and alternative investments.

After the seminar, a cocktail reception was held on the patio overlooking the Atlantic City skyline. It was a beautiful September evening, enjoyed by all.

Photos by Eric Weeks

L to R, Cathleen Palmentieri, Frank Thomas and Andrew Bauer of Brandywine Global speaking on Andrew Palmentieri Global Fixed Income Strategies

L to R, Don and Joan Neukranz with Craig Reynolds of Legg Mason

L to R, Maxim Kind, David Wagstaff, Andrew Bauer and Craig Reynolds

From left to right, Bob Reynolds with Dr. and Rae Tabasso 54

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The CRA Team, clockwise from top left: Patricia Sandland, Tom Reynolds, Matt Reynolds, Frank Thomas, Robert Martin, Kelli Crouch, Amanda Siegel, Donna Savastani and Jennifer Colon

L to R, Teresa and Stephen Manning, Tese Connell, Debbie Davies and Marc Lowenstein

Abe and Ellen Ferdas enjoying the beautiful weather on the patio at Atlantic City Country Club

Dr. Nazha and Dr. Boxman

REFLECTIONS

By SHERRY HOFFMAN

Giving Back With Honor Carmeline and Dennis Del Vecchio

“Life is full of purpose but you never actually know what is around the corner. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Make the most of your todays no matter what hand you are dealt. There is always someone out there that is going through harder times.”

— Carmeline Lisanti-Del Vecchio “She was the bravest woman I’ve ever met. She had a thirst for life.

She would always look at other people and say ‘they are worse off than I am.’”

That’s how Dennis Del Vecchio describes his late wife, Carmeline. They were sweethearts at Long Branch High School and were married for 42 years at the time of her death. She passed away September 11, 2011, nearly five years to the day that she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a progressive, incurable blood cancer. Dennis is committed to keeping Carmeline’s memory alive.

Dennis says, “At the time of diagnosis, we were told she had two years to live. I am convinced without the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF), Carmeline wouldn’t have survived those additional three years.”

The MMRF’s ongoing mission is to “relentlessly pursue innovative means that accelerate the development of nextgeneration multiple myeloma treatments to extend the lives of

patients and lead to a cure.”

“Through the efforts of the foundation and the new drugs they made available,” Dennis explains, “Carmeline was given hope and remained positive about her prognosis until her passing.”

Dennis and his two sons, Marc and Adam, wanted to follow through with Carmeline’s wish that they give something back to the MMRF. And they did. The Del Vecchio family formed their own foundation. Dennis gives his son Marc, a graphic designer, credit for the beauty of the logo and the artistically “hidden” butterfly, a favorite of Carmeline’s.

Since Dennis is an avid golfer, he felt having a golf tournament as a fundraiser was a natural. The Carmeline Del Vecchio Memorial Foundation held its 3th Annual Tournament on September 26 at the Vineyard Golf Course at Renault Winery Resort and Golf in Egg Harbor City.

Proceeds from the first two tournaments, totaling $12,000, were divided evenly between the MMRF and two scholarships to Long Branch High School seniors pursuing careers in medicine.

“My goal,” Dennis says, “is to raise enough money so this work can be carried on after I’m gone. She was a very special lady.” He adds, “This is the best way I can honor her and be connected with her spiritually.” n njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 55

LIFESTYLE COOKING WITH CHEF WILL SAVARESE

The Ideal Fall Meal Family and friends will love this mouth-watering seasonal recipe

A

s the summer months end and the crisp air returns, we all try to get back into our Fall routines. With this column, I hope to shed some light on seasonal cooking and enlighten people with simple pleasures. I believe each season can produce scrumptious meals if you keep it simple and seasonal. Remember, it’s all good when shared with friends, family, and people we love.

In preparing Autumn meals, it’s fun to have a theme: Back-to School, Weekends with Family, Football Tailgating, or Halloween. With each meal, strive to be organized and do as much as possible ahead of time.

The more you prepare, the more time you have to share with your company. And isn’t that the idea?

This season, the trend is bold flavors that cook for long hours and come together on those chilly nights, such as stews, braised meats, and soups. After a day of raking leaves, I’m ready for a dinner that is fast, yet satisfying. How about a nice butternut squash risotto with a little Applewood smoked bacon and sage, a green salad, some semolina bread, and a good Cabernet? Now that’s an ideal dinner … and maybe a little football in the background. Enjoy!

Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto with Sage, Applewood Smoked Bacon & Asiago

5-6 cups chicken stock 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1/2 cup diced onion 1 tsp minced garlic 1 butternut squashed, peeled dice and roasted 2 slices cooked Applewood smoked bacon, diced 2 cups Arborio rice 1 tsp fresh sage, julienne 1 tsp fresh Italian parsley, chopped 1 cup dry white wine 2 oz. unsalted butter 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp fresh pepper 1/2 cup Asiago cheese, grated Heat up stock and set aside. In pot, add oil and onions. Cook until transparent, approx. two minutes.

Then add garlic and cook for another minute. Add rice and cook for a few minutes to coat each kernel.

Deglaze with white wine and reduce until almost gone. Begin adding hot stock in batches and continue to stir. When 3/4 finished, add cooked butternut squash, bacon, sage, and parsley. Continue to stir while adding the remaining stock. Season with salt and pepper. Take off the fire and stir in butter. Serve in bowls and garnish with grated Asiago cheese and fried sage leaves. Serves 4 to 6 people.

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470 White Horse Pike 6126 Black Horse Pike Hammonton, NJ Mays Landing, NJ 609-561-9621 609-625-1181 www.maplewood.me

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The British Invasion Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay To Open Atlantic City Eatery

Chef Gordon Ramsay WITH ALL THE BAD NEWS COMING out of Atlantic City lately, it’s refreshing to have something upbeat, and utterly delicious, to talk about. Slated to debut at Caesars in early 2015, celebrated chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay will open Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill, his first restaurant in Atlantic City. Located in the space currently occupied by Mia, the new restaurant will offer guests a sophisticated environment with a bit of “Garden State” flair, showcased in a lively English pub-style setting.

Chef Ramsay is known worldwide not only for his superior cuisine, but also for his popular TV personality on numerous programs including; “Hell’s Kitchen,” “MasterChef,” and “Kitchen Nightmares.”

Recently, he successfully emerged on the Las Vegas culinary scene with rave reviews at the newly-opened Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill at Caesars Palace.

“We’re really excited after such a great success in Vegas to be expanding to Atlantic City,” said Gordon Ramsay. “We have a tremendous team, and it’s been a terrific partnership with Caesars.”

Delicious British pub food will be highlighted on the menu, featuring items such as bangers and mash, fish and chips,

and roasted chicken. Some of Ramsay’s favorites, like London broil prepared on a wood-burning grill, will also be part of the rustic menu that will change seasonally. Paying homage to a true English pub, the restaurant will also feature a wide selection of craft and microbrews from across the globe.

Designed to give guests a variety of culinary experiences to fit any mood, the 250-seat restaurant will include an impressive bar, a vintage-style lounge, a series of casual dining rooms, and an intimate private dining room.

EDG Interior Architecture + Design is creating a space that is welcoming, high-energy, yet comfortable, utilizing distressed woods with fun references to historic and iconic events.

Taking center stage will be a striking bar with the backdrop inspired by traditional London red telephone booths. The space will also feature a patio area extending onto the casino floor where guests can be smack dab in the middle of all the action.

Scottish born Ramsay was raised in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. With an injury putting an early end to a promising football career, Ramsay went back to college to complete a course in hotel management, where his natural talent and hard work led him to train with some of the world’s leading

chefs.

He became chef of Aubergine in London in 1993, and within three years, was awarded two Michelin stars. In 1998, at the age of 31, Ramsay set up his first namesake restaurant, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, which quickly received the most prestigious accolade in the culinary world — three Michelin stars.

Today, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay is London’s longest-running restaurant to hold this award, and Ramsay is one of only four chefs in the UK to maintain three stars.

“With the announcement of Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill at Caesars, Atlantic City continues to elevate itself as a culinary destination, one that features big television personalities, celebrity chefs, and now a Michelin-rated chef,” said Kevin Ortzman, president of Caesars and Bally’s Atlantic City.

“Chef Ramsay is one of the world’s most highly-regarded chefs as evidenced by his multiple culinary accolades and we are honored to partner with him at Caesars,” expressed Ortzman. “Guests and fans can expect the menu at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill to feature some of Chef Ramsay’s most well-known English pub-style comfort foods, while also taking advantage of the region’s natural resources and local farms.” n njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 59

Signature Pairings Creating delicious food and wine marriages as we explore the perfect Autumn meal

W

hoosh! That was the sound of summer exiting stage left. My wife and I did manage to take some delicious breaks in Cape May, as reported in a previous column.

Our address of choice in that area is 1301 Beach Avenue, the location of the splendid Peter Shields Inn and Restaurant. This locale affords the best accommodations and dining in Cape May, as far as Mrs. Silverstone and I are concerned.

The problem I have with Fall is that, like so many of us, I slip back into heavier meals and bolder wines. If you Google my name, you’ll find photographs which will be quite apparent to those of you who have been following my antics that you’ve also followed my ever increasing girth. So, it will come as no surprise that I have befriended a gentleman whose family, some 150 years ago, launched an ice cream company in Philadelphia and all these years later, it is still considered the finest ice cream company in the land.

PHILLIP SILVERSTONE’S BEST OF THE BUNCH

Michael Strange is the president of Bassetts Ice Cream (www.bassettsicecream.com) and he is a Bassett through and through. However, this man is trim and sprightly and not a sign of excess flesh is to be found anywhere around his trouser belt area. So, in fact, I truly hate him, but he is such a decent bloke you can’t help but like him immensely. And I bet he has lots of best friends, because the stuff he fills his cones with is “scrumptioulicious” (I made up that word, so please don’t spell check).

Bassetts is popping up in all of the finest restaurants in our region so, if you see ice cream on the menu, find out if it’s Bassetts.

If it is, get a scoop (or three) of their vanilla.

You will not be disappointed. By the way, local favorite Junior’s Doughnuts and Dogs, at 9315 Amherst Avenue in Margate, scoops Bassetts Ice Cream.

OK, so it’s Autumn and I’ve started thinking about my very own “signature” dishes for dinners I can make on weekends as we ease gently out of barbeque mode and prepare for chilly nights. And despite my dislike of wine and food pairing, some Summer sipping did inspire food marriages I thought I would share with you for a brilliant Autumn wine and food menu.

I have a life-long passion for smoked salmon (Irish or Scottish is the best if you can find it) and a wonderful wine to accompany it is Carmel Road “Liberated” Monterey 2012 Riesling ($17). The wine has a touch of sweetness in the German Kabinett-style, packed with luscious summer fruits and a crisp elegance.

I also have a regular fling with scallops, and if you’re a scallop lover, try Atalon’s Sauvignon Blanc 2012 from Napa ($20).

Not the typical Sauvignon Blanc one might expect, this is almost a re-imagining of the formulaic, somewhat predictability of the varietal. My notes simply state: “Light and highly quaffable.” The perfect marriage for scallops. If you’re not a fish person, my other favorite appetizer is mozzarella cheese with heirloom tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. This simple dish is terrific with the Sauvignon Blanc and the two work so well together, Astaire and Rogers would have been envious of the partnership.

Serving seared tuna? Pour a glass of Byron’s 2012 Santa Barbara Chardonnay ($16).

I usually avoid Chardonnays like the plague because they bore me to tears, but Byron revived my interest with their beautifullystructured drink; a distinct pear and apple flavor combination that easily romances fish.

I’m not a huge steak-friendly bloke either, but this time of year I enjoy it on occasion, especially if I can find some wine to quaff alongside it. There are some very nifty wines available right now that are big enough to avoid being overshadowed by the heavy meat.

La Crema, Willamette Valley 2012 Pinot Noir ($26) delivers everything I lust after in Pinots.

You can almost taste the soil in this not overly intense, dark fruit and hints of coffee infused (it isn’t, I’m just making a taste analogy) winning wine. Also try Freemark Abbey, Napa Valley 2011 Merlot ($30). For me, Merlot has always been the best man but never the groom. On rare occasions it does make it to the alter, and this is one of those occasions.

A tall, dark, and handsome groom indeed, this bottle is loaded with those seductive dark fruits we all enjoy in our serious red wines.

This would be a good time to fess up that

my meat of choice is lamb chops, but they are so expensive these days I only manage to buy them after a significant lottery win.

However, when such a win occurs, I cook them medium rare and would be very happy to serve them with Kendall-Jackson Sonoma 2012 Winemaker Selection ($25), featuring hand-picked Cabernet grapes from K-J’s own vineyards. This wine is the equivalent of the grand finale of any 4th of July fireworks display, with bold, rich, dazzling displays of pyrotechnics from the glass in which it is poured.

As for dessert, I have always believed a fabulous desert wine can, and should, be enjoyed in the place of a sweet food finale.

Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Late Harvest Chardonnay ($25 for a 375 ml bottle) is the perfect example; a lusciously sweet, late harvest, tea-colored, erotically-charged Chardonnay.

I sampled these wine and food marriages at this past Summer’s “Generous Pour”, an annual food and wine pairing series held at The Capital Grille restaurants around the country. It just so happens that all of the courses this year featured the food I tend to enjoy cooking at home, so it was an awesome way to plan my Autumnal meals courtesy of their guidance, www.thecapitalgrille.com.

Please note that all prices are approximate, but all tasting notes are spot on! Cheers! n Phillip Silverstone’s column appears in every edition. “Time Out With Phillip Silverstone” is a weekly podcast heard exclusively on TuneIn radio. You can also LIKE Phillip on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Phillipsilverstone and follow him on Twitter: @wining updates. njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 61

DINING Gallery Library IV

Ram’s Head Inn

9 W. White Horse Pike, Galloway, NJ 609-652-1700 ramsheadinn.com The Ram’s Head Inn continues the long-standing tradition of superior quality food and service that the Knowles family brought to Southern New Jersey in 1979. This started at the Manor in the 1950s, and also continues at the Highlawn Pavilion and Pleasantdale Chateau (all located in West Orange, NJ). Traditional food and beverage is served with a contemporary flair at various venues within this one-of-a-kind restaurant.

Executive chef Elio Gracia has provided outstanding culinary excellence for seventeen years, incorporating as many seasonal organic and locally-grown foods as possible. Walk-ins are always welcome.

1030 N. Blk Horse Pike, Williamstown, NJ 856-728-8064 libraryiv.com The area’s greatest steakhouse under the direction of owner Brian O’Keeney.

Offering quality prepared food and friendly service. Serving hand-cut steaks by the ounce, prime rib, seafood, veal and chicken. The Library IV restaurant has been the area’s top steakhouse for 30 years. A recently completed remodel includes a new kitchen, new 30-foot long salad bar and dining rooms. A casual and cozy atmosphere sets this restaurant apart from the others, and their commitment to top quality has stood the test of time.

Crab Trap

2 Broadway, Somers Point, NJ 609-927-7377 thecrabtrap.com Overlooking the Great Egg Harbor Bay in Somers Point is the Crab Trap Restaurant. Flourishing as a 400-seat full service restaurant serving the finest seafood in South Jersey. As many businesses expand, they often lose touch with the quality and small personal touches that made them special. At the Crab Trap, they don’t believe that has happened, or ever will.

Girasole Ristorante & Lounge

3108 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 609-345-5554 girasoleac.com An Italian boutique restaurant with a strong Mediterranean influence. Fresh ingredients and simple preparations, served in style, with Versace banquettes and place-settings. A beautiful bar with a noteworthy selection of custom cocktails and quality wines are offered.

The Melting Pot

2112 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 609-441-1100 meltingpot.com At The Melting Pot, fondue truly becomes a memorable four-course dining experience.

Patrons can dip into something different — and discover all the ingredients for a unique dining experience including a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive service, fine wines and signature fondue dinners.

Barista’s Coffee House

199 New Road Ste. 10, Central Square, Linwood 609-904-2990 baristascoffeehouse.com Owners Mark and Debbie Becker have created the perfect “neighborhood” atmosphere coffee house. Brewing up more than just coffee, customers come back time and time again for Barista’s espresso, tea breakfast, Liege waffles, Brussels waffles, gourmet desserts, and Italian gelato. Once you walk through the doors, you instantly become part of the “Barista’s Family”.

Open Mon. - Fri., 7 AM-6 PM and Sat., 8 AM-6 PM. 62

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Berkshire Grill

6105 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 609-272-8808 berkshiregrillnj.com Superbly prepared entrees including aged USDA Choice steaks, slow roasted Prime Rib and Grilled Chicken Portofino. Signature entrees include Mandarin Glazed Salmon, Spinach Pecan Salad, and Shrimp & Mussels Linguine. A large selection of sandwiches, salads, wraps, steaks, chicken, seafood and pasta is offered.

Tun Tavern

2 Convention Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ 609-347-7800 tuntavern.com The Tun Tavern takes pride in being a fine restaurant as well as a brewery. Whether it’s inside soaking up the atmosphere or outside on the deck, the Tun Tavern provides a great dining experience. Take a look at the menu and see what wonderful delights they have in store for you.

Tun Tavern serves the finest Black Angus steaks, Filets and Burgers. We also serve fresh seafood including our Tun favorite Ahi Tuna Wasabi, also Calamari, plus the original Philly Cheesesteak, with healthy salad options and tempting appetizers. Lunch and dinner served daily, and parking is free.

Great Food. Great Drinks. Great Atmosphere.

One Visit and You’ll Feel Like a Regular

Maplewood

470 White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 6126 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing, NJ 609-561-9621, 609-625-1181 maplewood.me For almost 70 years, Joe Italiano’s Maplewood has been known for its consistently great food! They believe that freshness and loving preparation are keys to satisfied customers. They have high standards for their food. Consistency can and should be expected. Food is fresh, salads are made to order, and pasta is boiled right before sauce is poured over it. “Gravy” or red sauce is made fresh daily and is loved by the locals in the area. They only use the finest ingredients at the Original Maplewood. Two locations — Same Great Food. Your Choice.

Mon - Thurs 4-11 Fri -saT 4-12 sun 3-10

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Only $8 from 8pm till closi 63 LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 every night all summer lon

CASINO DINING RESORTS

THE PIER AT CAESARS

Gallagher’s Steakhouse

N. Carolina & Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 609-340-6555 gallaghersresorts.com Gallaghers is located on the 2nd floor of Resorts Casino. A classic steakhouse serving hearty salads, dry-aged meats, wonderful fish and shellfish. Their glass-enclosed meat locker is in the front of the restaurant for all to view; and all of the beef is dry-aged for 21 days at a constant 36 degrees to insure tenderness. Offering the finest selections of seafood as well. An ambiance of warm woods and deep reds. Friendly, efficient and gracious service. Open for dinner Sunday thru Thursday 5-9:30 pm, Friday 5-10 pm, Saturday 5-11 pm.

Capriccio

N. Carolina & Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 609-344-6000 resortsac.com No passport needed for this Italian experience.

Capriccio’s all new menu features gourmet Italian cuisine in an exquisitely comfortable Mediterranean atmosphere, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Capriccio’s has beautiful murals on the walls featuring Old World Italy. Try the lobster with shiitake mushrooms and sweet peppers served on a baked polenta round; or the Costolette di Vitello alla Lombardese; or absolutely the Ossobuco di Vitello alla Lombardese, braised in a red wine and tomato sauce served with saffron risotto. The food is as spectacular as the view.

Phillips Seafood

Pier at Caesars, Atlantic City, NJ 609-348-2273 phillipsseafood.com Phillips Seafood brings guests a classical American seafood menu boasting an array of fresh seasonal fish and Phillips’ famous jumbo lump crab cakes. Renowned chef Robbin Haas has designed a menu that offers guests the freshest, finest seafood available, complete with a rolling oyster cart where regional varietals are shucked tableside and a double-decker live lobster tank stocked with 3-10 pound lobsters.

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BALLY’S

Arturo’s Ristorante

Bally’s Casino, Atlantic City, NJ 609-340-2300 ballysac.com Bally’s own Little Italy! Chef Maurizio prepares Milk fed Veal any way your heart desires; Picatta, Marsala, Francese, and of course, their famous Veal Parmigiana. Vibrant Italian mosaics abound as this restaurant offers tranquil views of the boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean.

BORGATA

Wolfgang Puck American Grille One Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 609-317-1000 theborgata.com The man who revolutionized the culinary industry carries an undeniable cachet, synonymous with bold, innovative cooking and an unmistakable panache and passion that redefined dining in America. Offering contemporary American cuisine, the restaurant offers two distinctive dining areas ranging from casual and relaxed to elegant and upscale.

Old Homestead Steak House

One Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 609-317-1000 theborgata.com Their domestically-raised, hand-massaged Kobe beef is not only the envy of the trade, it’s trademarked. But that isn’t the only reason the venerable Old Homestead has been a New York City landmark for 137 years. “It’s consistency on all fronts,” says Marc Sherry who, with brother Greg, opened their second location at Borgata.

The menu nearly mirrors New York’s — and for good reason.

Izakaya

One Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 609-317-1000 theborgata.com A modern Japanese pub that defies comparison.

Extraordinary sushi, sake, and robatayaki served in a sensual, yet modern atmosphere. Izakaya’s tempting cocktails and sharable plates make it the premier spot for an after-hours nosh and drinks, or a delicious late night meal.

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2014 65

A Final Word

Illuminating Memories A chance to capture a wonderful period in time through the alluring street lights of Atlantic City

By MOLLY GOLUBCOW

E

very time we walked on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, my friend Richard would look up at the fancy street light and say, “Boy, I’d love to have one of those.” The lights, uniformly placed all along the four or so miles of the boardwalk, were unique. The shape was about a three foot tall, oblong white shade with black wrought iron rims — top and bottom, a pointed black filial on the top, and a band of cobalt blue “stained-glass” that illuminated several ACs stenciled into the top rim. The lights looked like Victorian gaslights, with a touch of 1980s style and materials.

Two summers ago, I stumbled across an article in the Press of Atlantic City talking about how the old street lights on the boardwalk were removed and replaced by brighter, more energy efficient lights.

At first, the city was going to just throw away the old lights and poles.

But when people started calling the city to see if they can have or buy the little pieces of AC, a light bulb went on (pun intended) at the City Public Works department. They decided to auction off the items to memorabilia hounds and at the same time make a few dollars. Since most of the lights needed extensive rewiring and cleaning, they were expecting to get no more than $10 - $20 for each light.

Once I saw the ad for the auction, I was determined to get one.

A mere $20 to make a dream come true seemed very doable, and I decided to go. I talked my friends Hollis and Tom into going with me for moral support since I had never participated in an auction. The auction took place at the Municipal Tow Lot on Albany Avenue — or as we Atlantic City locals still call it, “the old Two Guys parking lot.”

As soon as we arrived, we checked out the goods. To our surprise, the lights were grouped and clumped into lots — seven or eight piled on top of each other and the poles separated into lots as well. I asked one of the men running the auction if I could just buy one light, but the answer was, “No. You buy an entire lot or you don’t buy at all!”

After consulting with Hollis and Tom, the three of us decided we would buy one lot and figure out what to do with the extras later — and thus began the competitive spirit of the auction. Hollis scoped out all the lots to determine which had the most lights in the best condition. After years of lighting up the boardwalk, these old gals showed their age — old wiring, rusted hardware, cracked shades, and once-upon-a-time black paint chipped from decades of wind and salt air. But, our goal was to get one lot — come hell or high water!

In addition to checking out the lights, we were also checking out our fellow bidders. There were only about ten of us. One woman, sent by her husband, thought it would be “neat” to have these lights.

She seemed friendly and likeable. Then, there were several men by themselves and sticking to themselves so we did not know what their intentions were. Once the auction began, those intentions became clear.

Not everyone was there for AC memorabilia purposes.

The bidding on Lot #1 started at $5.00 and ended at $65. The winner was a short and very quiet, serious man. The second lot went to a more gregarious guy — tall and burly. The pattern kept repeating itself with these two guys bidding all of the time and usually winning for $65-$120. On one occasion, the woman, consulting with her husband by cell phone, won a lot or two. Then, it was time to bid on a lot that Hollis determined had “good” lights. The auctioneer started at $5 and I immediately bid $10. That did not last long because the bigger

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guy barked out $15 before I had a chance to finish. We went back and forth until the bid went up to $60, our agreed upon limit. My adrenalin was pumping — I did not want to lose. And then I did. He outbid me.

And then he outbid me on the second lot we wanted.

Now I know one should be a good sport, but I was cranky. For goodness sake, I just wanted one light and these two men were buying all of them. So, I did what any mature adult would do. I stomped my foot and yelled up at the big guy, “Hey, will you stop bidding. You already won a bunch. Give me a break!”

He looked down at me, stared, but said nothing. By this time the next lot was being auctioned, and again, the big guy started bidding.

It was up to $60, my final bid. He looked down at me again and then shook his head to the auctioneer indicating that he was not bidding. I won. When I thanked him, the big guy actually smiled.

Now that I was no longer concerned about winning an auction, I could relax and the big guy and I then became fast friends. He told me that he was a scrap metal dealer and was not interested in anything to do with Atlantic City lights, just the metal. In addition to educating me in the scrap metal business, he also told me that the little guy who kept buying up all the lots was a builder, very successful, and was probably going to use the lights in a new development he was working on in the area.

When the auction ended, Hollis and I asked the big guy if we could trade his best lights for our worst ones since he was going to scrap them anyway. He agreed and even helped carry his good ones and take our bad ones. What a gentleman he was — after I yelled at him! As Hollis, Tom, and I jam-packed the car with Atlantic City lights, a fellow bidder came over and offered us $20 for two lights. That was a timely offer since we could not fit two more lights in the car anyway!

When I gave Richard his light, he was thrilled. In fact, he took all six lights and refurbished them — new wirings, sand-blasted, and professionally painted. Hollis proudly displays one in her yard on a new pole. Mine sits on a pedestal as a floor light in my living room. Regardless of where they now shine, those lights bring back memories — strolls on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, going to the auction, and putting a smile on all of our faces — for $20 or An original AC light in front of less. n Hollis and Tom’s home in Margate.

Photo by Tom Bombaci, Jr.

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I believe

that my life was their primary concern.

In March of this year, Annette Thomas almost died. Her health was slowly deteriorating, but she didn’t realize it. Annette didn’t have a regular primary care provider, so at the request of her daughter, she made an appointment with an AtlantiCare Primary Care Plus provider. And she’s glad she did. Her Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), Terri Rodino, discovered that Annette’s blood pressure was dangerously high. Terri immediately sent her to the emergency department at AtlantiCare, where they determined Annette had blockages in the left and right sides of her heart. Quite the dramatic turn of events— Annette would ultimately require two stents. Months later, she feels like a new person. She’s healthy once again, and spends her days without any of the symptoms that plagued her before her emergency. No more shortness of breath, headaches or fatigue. She can keep up with her grandkids and their busy schedules—all thanks to the coordinated services of AtlantiCare. Annette continues to see Terri for routine care, as well as her cardiologist for follow-up care. She’s even started referring her friends to AtlantiCare. Annette is indebted to Terri for the support she provided. “It’s like a miracle happened,” she recalls warmly. “Terri saved my life.”

Healthcare you can believe in.

1-888-569-1000 www.atlanticare.org/primary