NJ Lifestyle Magazine Fall 2017

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

FALL 2017

Volume 15 | Number 5

Shades of Autumn SOUTHERN EXPOSURE • FALL FASHION CHECKLIST REMEMBERING JERRY LEWIS • A CELEBRATED TRUMPET VIRTUOSO

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THE • VIEW “Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.”

—Jim Bishop

I

ll let you in on a little secret. We’re currently in the midst of my favorite season at the Jersey shore. Sure, I love Summer and its abundance of activity. The Jersey shore truly comes alive after Memorial Day, and everything is full steam ahead until Labor Day. That’s when my favorite season kicks in. Because the Summer fun doesn’t end September 1st.

Those of you who have returned to visit, and those of you who live here, understand. There are so many reasons why Fall at the Jersey Shore is the best time of year. Here are just some of them.

• The Beaches — Forget the beach tags, and don’t worry about getting there early to grab a good spot. The beach is practically empty during the shoulder season. That makes it even more relaxing, and a great place to de-stress and unwind.

• The Boardwalk — The rides, the food stands, and the shops are open well into the Fall months. Head to the boards on a sunny weekend for a delicious taste of summer.

• The Parking — Remember driving around and around to try to find any street parking — until you finally gave up and parked in a pay lot? That’s but a distant memory in the Fall. Not only is there plenty of parking now in every shore town, most of it is free!

• The Traffic — Travel anywhere you want, on toll roads or local streets. The only time you’ll need to stop is for those traffic lights. (And in some towns, they even go to blinking yellow off-season.)

• The Dining — Hungry? Your favorite restaurant is open, and there’s probably not a wait.

In fact, you can get seating at wonderful shore town icons — which are crowded in the summertime but easy to enjoy in the Fall.

• The Weather — The calendar may say October, but you’d be surprised at how many summerlike days there are. Keep those flip flops going as long as you can.

• The Action — There’s plenty to do, and I’m not just talking about the action at Atlantic City’s casinos. From festivals and craft fairs to wine tastings and carriage rides, the Fall is filled with activity.

Best of all, it’s the “low key” version of Summer, which means plenty of opportunity for relaxation. So grab a drink and a copy of your favorite magazine, and get ready to discover Fall at the Shore.

Happy reading!

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Dar la Hendrick s

Publisher

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2017

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CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS your teeth into this 18 Sinkmini pie of Nirvana.

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

Lifestyle Fashion......................................... 8 Cozy/chic fall fashion.

Lifestyle Travel........................................... 20 Clam Bake for Two at Phillips Seafood

46 Phillips Seafood in Atlantic City brings guests classic American seafood.

Rediscover the many wonders of New England.

Health Watch............................................. 24 Award-winning mocktails.

FEATURES

Lifestyle Theatre......................................... 26

Southern Exposure............................. 12

Lifestyle Entertainment.............................. 28

Food Fare.......................................... 16

Lifestyle Art............................................... 30

An encore for the Gateway.

A Mediterranean style home with stupendous views.

Rave reviews ensure success for one local caterer and their clients.

Give Peace (Pie) a Chance................... 18

One gifted trumpet virtuoso has realized his dream.

The meticulous eye of a painter.

On Wheels................................................. 32 The versatile Dodge Durango is big and brawny.

Treat your taste buds to a new decadent dessert.

Money Watch............................................. 35

Best Kept Secret................................ 46

Explaining “Backdoor Roth IRAs”.

There is more to Phillips Seafood in Atlantic City than meets the eye.

Lifelines.................................................... 37 How detours can shape your destiny.

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Infuse your wardrobe with these essential accessories that are sure to be on your autumn checklist.

Lifestyle Opinion........................................ 38 Entering bizarro world.

The Social Scene........................................ 40 Get the picture on the latest events and happenings.

Lifestyle Cooking........................................ 49 A blink of an eye.

Lifestyle Wine............................................ 50 “Conkering” Fall Wines.

Dining Gallery............................................ 52 All the details on the area’s great dining venues.

A Final Word.............................................. 56 Remembering New Jersey native Jerry Lewis.

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BECAUSE 2 ARE BETTER THAN 1 AMI believes that every woman deserves the opportunity to be proactive about their health.

For every mammography screening performed at AMI during October, AMI will make a donation to the AMI Foundation. This donation will help ensure that every woman who needs a mammogram receives one. This program is made possible through the generous support of the AMI Foundation.

Convenient evening and weekend appointments are available.

To schedule an appointment, please call (609) 677-XRAY (9729) or (609) 463-9500.

Visit us online at: www.atlanticmedicalimaging.com

www.amifoundation.net

amiradiology BRICK • CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE • EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP • GALLOWAY • HAMMONTON MANASQUAN • MAYS LANDING • NORTHFIELD • SOMERS POINT • TOMS RIVER

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

MAGAZINE

Publisher / Creative Director

Darla Hendricks darlabh2@gmail.com Copy Editor

Alyson Boxman Levine Contributing Writers

Molly Golubcow Harry Hurley Alyson Boxman Levine Michelle Dawn Mooney Felicia L. Niven Marjorie Preston Matt and Tom Reynolds Elaine Rose Will Savarese Phillip Silverstone David Spatz Robin Stoloff Beth Wade

We knoW the ropes.

Travel Editor

Dan Schlossberg Photographers

Nick Valinote Eric Weeks Online Media Info.

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nearly a half-century ago, stephen hankin founded the law firm that would become hankin sandman palladino & Weintrob.

From commercial litigation to personal injury, and from land use to family law, our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to protect your interests, even in the choppiest of waters.

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New Jersey 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:

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Local

Chatter Spooky Scarecrow Trivia

DID YOU KNOW SCARECROWS have been around for over 3,000 years? According to historians, the first recorded use of scarecrows was by the Egyptians to protect their vital wheat fields along the winding Nile River.

When it comes to their appearance, scarecrows tend to reflect an aspect of the culture that uses them. The Greeks carved and decorated their scarecrows to look like their gods and the Germans built theirs to look like witches. Many scarecrows are meant to be frightening to humans — as well as animals — reflecting fear based in superstition; and the word “bogeyman” comes from what German farmers called their scarecrows.

IN AUGUST, ANTHONY ROMANO, General Manager of the Palm Restaurant Atlantic City, 2017 Miss America commemorated the reign of 2017 Miss America Savvy Shields Savvy Shields by adding her caricature to the Palm’s Wall of Fame. Shields made history when she became the first Miss Arkansas to take home the crown since 1982. Her caricature now adorns the wall alongside her predecessors, 2013 Miss America Mallory Hytes Hagan, 2014 Miss America Nina Davuluri, 2015 Miss America Kira Kazanstev, and 2016 Miss America Betty Cantrell.

The Palm Restaurant is legendary for its cosmopolitan cuisine, festive spirit, and “living murals”. The oldest Palm caricatures can be seen in the flagship New York Palm Restaurant. Many of the restaurant’s most memorable moments are made when celebrities, like the five Miss Americas, visit to sign their caricatures when they are added to the famous wall.

A Crown-Wearing Caricature

Eerie Playhouse Production

VISIT THE GATEWAY PLAYHOUSE this Fall for the perfect Halloween treat.

On October 17, The Medium will come to the newly-restored Somers Point theatre. Inspired by a real life encounter with a true believer in spiritualism, Gian Carlo Menotti's eerie opera is a perfect pre-Halloween production to get audiences in the mood for the oh-so spooky.

The Medium is a two act, dramatic opera that was mounted on Broadway in 1947 and continues to be a much-loved work. The opera tells the tale of Madame Flora, a charlatan spiritualist who conducts phony séances in her parlor. Assisted by her daughter and a deaf-mute orphan boy she took in off the street, Madame Flora cons grieving parents into believing that they are communicating with the spirits of their dead children. Set in New Orleans, the opera recalls the dramatic sensibilities of a Southern gothic short story.

With the help of grants from the Pepsi Refresh Program, Shore Medical Center, contributors, and community donations, the Gateway Playhouse re-opened in August as a year-round Playhouse featuring musicals, plays, concerts, and performances for the South Jersey Region.

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Laugh Out Loud FOR TWO GLORIOUS DAYS, ten of the entertainment industry’s hottest comedy headliners will front the Atlantic City Comedy Festival. For its eighth consecutive year, Atlantic City prepares to experience humor on an unprecedented level. The festival returns to Boardwalk Hall on October 7 – 8, and the stage has been set for top comics to thrive in their element.

Atlantic City serves as the backdrop for an extraordinary weekend of laughs. The acclaimed boardwalk, beautiful beaches, exuberant nightlife, niche shopping, and world class hotel-casinos make for an unforgettable weekend. Last year’s production attracted almost 50,000 fans to Boardwalk Hall.

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 An Irish Romance in Cape May ARE YOU FEELING a bit romantic? Visit the Cape May Stage now through November 10th for their performance of Outside Mullingar — written by John Patrick Shanley and directed by Roy Steinberg — and you will be in sheer bliss.

This romantic comedy takes place in rural Ireland, where an introverted farmer nearing his middle years is pursued by his neighbor who vows to have him at all costs. The play is poetic and funny and charming at the same time. John Patrick Shanley is the author of “Doubt” (Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award) Bye Bye Birdies and the feature film Moonstruck (Academy Award). The New York Times said, “Mr. Shanley’s lyrical writing … gives consistent pleasure.” It is the perfect play to celebrate the Autumn in Cape May.

Oh-So Hairy Legs

NO SHAVING REQUIRED when the all-male dance company 10 Hairy Legs struts their stuff on the stage of the Stockton Performing Arts Center on Friday, November 3rd at 7:30 PM. The troupe expertly performs existing and newly-commissioned works, and provides a wide range of education programs for all ages focusing on the many facets of maleness as expressed through dance.

The company has entertained more than 50,000 patrons, students, artists and educators throughout the New York and New Jersey region. In August 2016, 10 Hairy Legs toured the Choreogus Dance Festival in Tulsa, OK, and in November 2016, they were the only American dance company appearing at the Ikapa Dance Festival in Cape Town, South Africa.

Brittany Lewis is crowned.

Local Beauty Queen Reigns Supreme BRIGANTINE RESIDENTS ARE REJOICING as one of their own has recently been crowned Miss Black America. Brittany Lewis — Temple University graduate and third-year PhD candidate at George Washington University — recently competed for Washington, D.C. in the pageant and became the 49th Miss Black America.

The pageant began in Atlantic City 50 years ago to protest the lack of black contestants in the Miss America pageant and to celebrate and promote the beauty and talents of black women. Today, the Miss Black America organization is going strong as young girls and women of color ages 9 to 29 are welcomed into the competition. They are judged on speech, talent, style, and poise.

EXPERIENCE THE SEASONAL MIGRATION firsthand this year. Visit the 2017 Cape May Fall Festival, aptly called SO. MANY. BIRDS. on Thursday, October 19 - Sunday, October 22.

The longest running birding festival in the country just keeps getting better as New Jersey Audubon's Cape May Bird Observatory has its finger on the pulse of Fall migration and you are invited to be a part of it.

Four official migratory counts take place during the Fall: the Monarch Monitoring Project, the Avalon Seawatch, the Morning Flight Songbird Count, and the celebrated Cape May Hawkwatch.

There is no better way to immerse yourself in the storied birding experience that is Cape May than attending this festival. Registration includes an abundant selection of walks for all skill levels, including special photography walks; as well as insightful and entertaining indoor programs. There are also unique boat trips and special trolley tours only open to festival registrants.

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Cozy/Chic Fall Fashion

Sweater weather has arrived and these current looks will keep you warm and stylish all season

Glittery Gold

Gold Sweater, 1.2.3.

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Lifestyle Fashion

By Alyson Boxman Levine

S

weaters. We all have them. We all adore them. From long and cozy styles to cropped and modern looks — ranging from colorful to monochromatic — sweaters are of our favorite seasonal accessory.

They are, many times, admittedly worn and frayed, but always loved; representing a wonderful feeling of familiar comfort, like the embrace of an old friend on a chilly day. But the styles for these go-to favorites have changed this season. Our beloved friends have gotten a chic update for autumn and the on-trend options offered by indemand designers will entice the fashionista in you.

As the beautifully-colored autumn leaves fall from trees and neighborhood gatherings move from the backyard to the dining room, one thing is certain; sweater weather has arrived. Now is the ideal time to break out some of your favorite go-to cozy pieces and add a few new chic options to your autumn closet. nnn Velvet Glam Currently, the on-trend fabric is, hands down, velvet … and numerous fashion designers have draped their models in this luxe material across the Fall 2018 runways. Anything in velvet is a must for your autumn wardrobe, so why not try a sweater in this ohso-soft fabric. This jet black option, from the Velvet by Graham & Spencer label, is certainly the one to beat. Featuring a wide, flattering boatneck silhouette and three quarter dolman sleeves for offshoulder styling, this look is classic, yet instantly dressed up.

Velvet by Graham & Spencer began in 1997 as an aspiration to create fashion forward tee shirts that embodied the laid-back luxe of LA style. Today, the brand has evolved into full collections recognized for their meticulously crafted, clean elevated staples.

Helmed by creative directors Jenny Graham and Toni Spencer, the collections are manufactured with only the finest fabrics and are

Velvet Glam

Velvet Sweater, Velvet by Graham & Spencer

Patchwork Pieces Patchwork Sweater, Zara

produced predominantly in the United States. Velvet by Graham & Spencer can be found in boutiques and premiere department stores nationwide and internationally, and is a favorite brand among supermodels and fashion industry icons. nnn Patchwork Pieces Patchwork pieces of all shapes and sizes were witnessed on Fall 2018 runways, and one reason for this trend’s popularity is simple … it always gives the wearer a totally original look. And oh-so appropriate for fall, the patchwork trend is manifesting itself on solid fabrics such as suede, leather, wool, faux fur, satin, and tweed.

Perfectly exemplifying this growing trend is this oversized patchwork sweater from the popular Zara label with a round neckline and long, voluminous sleeves.

Zara’s story begins with the opening of their first store in a Spanish coastal city in 1975. Over the years, the label has remained faithful to its core values, expressed simply in the same four key words that define all of their stores: beauty, clarity, functionality, and sustainability. Zara’s flagship eco-stores underline the brand’s unwavering focus on sustainability and improved customer experience. Nurturing a highly intimate relationship with its customers, Zara’s designers respond instinctively to their changing needs — reacting to the latest trends and constant feedback received across its collections — to deliver new ideas in the right place and at the precise moment. nnn Glittery Gold If velvet is the fabric of the season, than gold certainly is the color of autumn. Everyone looks glorious in gold and wearing this magical hue will certainly lift even the darkest mood. Shine bright in this

A Modern Muse Modern Sweater, Sally LaPointe

Dramatic Sleeves

Bold Sleeved Sweater, Free People

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LIFEST YLE FASHION golden sweater with fun flared sleeves, adding a fantastic 1970s feel. The boat neckline and metallic threading make this garment from the 1.2.3. label a top pick as your must-have seasonal splurge.

Founded in 1983 by the ETAM Griou, the 1.2.3. brand was inspired by an innovative concept: making high-quality fashion accessible to all women. But many ask, why the name 1.2.3.? The name originally referred to the three basic items an active woman needs to dress for work: a small, fitted jacket and tailored pants, brightened up with a little, silk top. Things have certainly come a long way since the 1980s, but this tailoring story remains firmly rooted in the brands core values.

Chic Cut Outs

Cut Out Sweater, Tibi

nnn A Modern Muse Trending this season is the oh-so clean, modern look and designers across the globe are grabbing on to this style and not letting go. This trend is ideal for the office or an evening out on the town, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This luxurious sweater from the Sally LaPointe label is handcrafted in the United States, cut from the softest wool, and detailed with fur sleeves and a hint of cashmere. Pair this beauty with denim on cooler days and you will have mastered the fine art of fall fashion.

Based in New York City, Sally LaPointe designs with a modern take on everyday elegance. Offering the industry a collection of bold, unexpected luxe, her collection is darkly romantic with a knowing edge, embodying a confidence in its certainty.

Born in Massachusetts, LaPointe was drawn to fine arts at an early age, attracted to painting and sculpture for their ability to communicate emotions through color and texture. She moved to New York City to found her eponymous collection in 2010. The brand has acquired a loyal celebrity following, including: Jennifer Lawrence, Kerry Washington, Michelle Obama, Kristen Stewart, and Emily Blunt, and has been featured in numerous fashion publications across the globe. nnn Chic Cut Outs Yes, cut out styles are still on trend, and your fall closet would not be complete without at least one new peek-a-boo item. Everyone will love this cozy cut out shoulder sweater from the coveted Tibi label. This crewneck oversized pullover is spun from a luxuriously soft wool-blend with one shoulder cut out and features ribbed edges for subtle texture.

Cut for a loose, oversized fit, this cozy sweater looks great opposite slim and wide-leg pants alike.

In 1997, Tibi designer and founder Amy Smilovic began her career in the fashion industry shortly after moving to Hong Kong. Following a successful marketing position in New York City, Amy relocated to Asia with her husband and began designing a small collection of contemporary dresses. The company has rapidly expanded into its current offering of ten collections per year, as well as complete shoe, swimwear, and home accessories lines. Presently, Tibi is one of the largest contemporary fashion lines found in over 500 specialty stores and upscale department stores worldwide. Celebrities Scarlett Johansson, Liv Tyler, Drew Barrymore, and Reese Witherspoon are all fans of the brand’s sophisticated prints and feminine designs. nnn Dramatic Sleeves Do you want to add some drama to your look this season? If you answered “yes”, then you simply must incorporate a sweater with dramatic sleeves this fall. Free People adds drama with this fun sweater, styled with a plunging neckline and oversized bold knit sleeves.

Featuring a V-neckline and an asymmetrical drawstring hem, this flattering shape hits perfectly below the hip.

Recently, the Free People label shed its junior image and evolved into a more mature, contemporary brand. This allowed more women to appreciate the line of clothing that caters to their intelligence, creativity and individuality, while keeping with its great quality and affordability.

The brand designs for the woman who is smart, creative, confident and comfortable in all aspects of her being. The first Free People boutique opened in Paramus, NJ in 2002, and currently has boutiques throughout the United States, as well as Canada.

Not only do sweaters keep you warm and have you looking fabulous, they instantly update any look and change the feel of any outfit. From embellished and oversized, to form-fitting and elegant, the options for chic fashion this fall are endless. Keep warm and stylish as you relish every moment of this oh-so colorful and cozy season. n

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Checklist for Autumn Infuse your wardrobe with these six essential accessories B.

A.

C.

E. D.

F.

A. LUXE BOOTIES In a quirky-cool combo of suede and leather, these exclusive Italian-made booties add tonal and textural contrast to luxe fall layers. Fits true to size, with a pointed toe and a trendy wraparound ankle strap, these slate gray booties feature a chic pebbled leather front panel, Sarah Flint, $845.

B. THE IDEAL WATCH Simple, yet stylish, and always a classic, this Double-Wrap Leather Strap Watch features an eye-catching unique band that is sure to stand out. Featuring 3-hand analog movement and a matte white dial, this watch encompasses gold-tone indexes and rich cognac leather, Burberry, $595.

C. A GOLDEN TOTE Go understated or all-out glam with this exclusive Street Level tote that reverses from solid black to shimmering gold. The metallic streamlined, faux-leather design features a removable zip pouch for stashing essentials, double handles, and a magnetic snap closure, Bloomingdales, $60.

D. THE PERFECT SCENT Inspired by the craftsmanship of haute perfumery, McQueen has created a unique scent made from the precious essence of three night-blooming flowers; Sambac Jasmine, Tuberose, and Ylang Ylang. Solid, sensual, with the artisan's love of form, the bottle itself is a small work of art. A timeless shape, tactile and beautiful in the hand.

Gold feathers crown the bottle, reflecting bespoke craftsmanship that is pure Alexander McQueen, $395.

E. ON-TREND SCARF This cozy cotton scarf made by ZAAF on the traditional loom in Ethiopia is perfect for the fall season. It is meticulously handcrafted by local artisans, yet utterly modern, elegant, and chic. Color, texture, and ageless patterns are beautifully merged to create a perfect union of timeless-styled accessories that are effortlessly functional, ZAAF, $56.

F. CHIC SUNGLASSES Round sunglasses are excitedly on-trend this season and you will look like you just walked off the runway in these beauties, sure to be an instant classic. These Double Brow Bar Oversized Round Polarized Sunglasses feature 100% UV protection, come with a hard case and cleaning cloth, and are Italian made, Givenchy, $405. njlifestyleonline.com

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Southern Exposure With stupendous views of the bay, busy ship channels and multiple bridges, this home brings a touch of Mediterranean style to South Jersey. Needless to add, these homeowners always play to a full house.

Views of the Great Egg Harbor Bay

W

hen they built their home on the Great Egg Harbor Bay, Raffaele and Linda Pansini looked for laid-back comfort and luxurious style. They got both in this rambling, stone-and-stucco Mediterranean villa in Anchorage Poynte, a waterfront community set midway along Somers Point-Longport Boulevard.

“As far as the location, to my opinion it’s one of the best,” says Ralph, adding that the setting may rival his native Molfetta, a fishing village in Italy’s Bari Province, on the Adriatic Sea. “We have practically a 270-degree water view,” he says with satisfaction. “We have a perfect sunrise and sunset, and full southern exposure. It may not be No. 1 as far as real estate goes, but there is an old saying: ‘God only makes so many waterfront properties.’ If you want another one like this, you will have to do a long search.”

Generous windows and French doors bring the outdoors inside, and six of the seven bedrooms have balconies. Evenings are especially enjoyable when viewed from this vantage point, says Ralph. “It’s worth it to see the (Route 52) bridge all lit up. It’s absolutely gorgeous.”

out on a spit of land overlooking the bay, it’s so close to the water, Linda says it’s like living on an ocean liner. Any given weekend, the house is filled to overflowing with family, including the couple’s three daughters and their families, including seven grandsons ranging in age from three to 16.

The welcome begins at a towering entryway under a dramatic bi-level arch, which soars up to a red-tiled roof. Custom-made double doors of Honduran mahogany are seven feet wide, 10-feet tall, and three and a half inches thick. Weighing about 800 pounds, each one took three months to craft and deliver.

“It’s dramatic looking,” says Ralph of the entryway. “People come through the front door and think they are walking into St. Peter’s Church. And once you get inside, there is the open space: a wide open living room, dining room and kitchen,” just made for easy entertaining.

Equally dramatic is the curving staircase of American mahogany with gently carved white newel posts. “I could have done something simple,” says Ralph, “but I am not a simple builder.”

Quality from the Ground Up As founder of Pansini Custom Homes, established in Ocean City in 1986, Ralph Pansini has designed and built more than 100 homes in the vicinity. This one was made-to-order — all 5,600 square feet of it. Jutting

Eye for Color As in all the Pansinis’ homes, Linda was in charge of the décor, and with her daughter’s encouragement, chose a bold color palette for the living area. The walls and 12-foot coffered ceilings are painted an almost-

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In-ground pool with whirlpool spa

L

I

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S

T

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L

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ARCHITECTURE

By MARJORIE PRESTON Photos by ERIC WEEKS

270-degree water view

Expansive gourmet kitchen

12-foot coffered ceilings njlifestyleonline.com

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LIFEST YLE ARCHITECTURE

Bathroom

midnight blue, in stark contrast to creamy white beams, molding and baseboards. “I had to go out of my comfort zone with these colors,” Linda says. “But it turned out beautifully.”

Throughout the home, you’ll spy small, subtle nods to the coastal setting: shell motifs in the upholstery, throw pillows and rugs; mounted pieces of driftwood that serve as sculpture; images of anchors and ship wheels in the wall art; a giant conch-shell bowl; a wrought-metal starfish in one of the five full bathrooms.

Decorator tip: Linda has furnished multiple homes with deals from Furnitureland South in Jamestown, North Carolina, which bills itself as “the world’s largest furniture store.”

“I went with a girlfriend for three days,” she says of the latest shopping spree. “We had a great time.”

The nautical theme, never overstated, is enhanced by natural finishes like rattan furnishings and woven area rugs. Even the wooden floors have the look of driftwood, worn to a silvery hue — but wait, these floors are not wood at all, but wood-grained porcelain, with radiant heating for the ultimate in cold-weather comfort.

Hearts of the Home Naturally, most who drop by head straight for the expansive gourmet kitchen, where a “Cucina” sign adorns the range hood. “People love eating here, so we made it very wide open and large and welcoming,” says Ralph.

The room centers on a massive, multifunctional, granite-topped island, painted the same deep indigo blue of the walls and ceilings. It’s flanked by a quartet of rattan bar stools for casual dining. The stainless steel appliances are from the GE Monogram series.

Outside, special features include an in-ground pool with whirlpool spa; a poolside boardwalk made with planks of Brazilian ipe; an indoor-outdoor wireless audio system; a decorative pergola; and a two-hole putting green for the grandkids. Of course, there’s plenty of dock space to accommodate boats and watercraft.

“This is where we live,” says Linda of a screened lanai, which adjoins the house and includes both a vibrant wall mural and relaxed rattan furnishings

by Braxton-Culler.

“It is a touch of Florida,” adds Ralph, who built the nearby 12-foot koi pond with his own hands. “I enjoy doing a lot of the physical work,” he says.

“It takes away the mental stress.”

Elevator American mahogany curving staircase Coastal themed bathroom

Shoring Up Built for long life and durability, the big house was put to its first and most critical test by Superstorm Sandy, which roared up the coast while it was still under construction.

“When we first purchased the ground, the elevation was only 6.5 feet above sea level,” observes Ralph. “We brought in fill to raise the grading to a nearly 12-foot elevation. So when Hurricane Sandy was here, though we had almost four feet of water in the street, it was still six to seven feet away from the garage. It never reached us.”

The walls are two-by-six inches thick, not the standard two-by-four.

The floors are built on concrete structural slabs at a minimum eight inches thick. The columns and crossbeams are also concrete, reinforced with noncorrosive, epoxy-coated rebar. “It is the way bridges are built today,” says Ralph. Hurricane-resistant doors and windows by Andersen are designed to keep Mother Nature in her place while letting the great outdoors shine through.

While passersby may be dazzled by the home’s size, scale and fabulous appointments, “It’s a very used house, a very lived-in house,” says Linda.

Ralph agrees. “I am used to it by now,” he says. “But when people come over, it makes me realize what kind of effect we have created. It is just beautiful.” n

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Food Fare By MARJORIE PRESTON

In Such Good Taste RAVE REVIEWS ENSURE SUCCESS FOR ONE LOCAL CATERER AND THEIR CLIENTS

Planning a wedding, corporate affair, bar/bat mitzvah or other special event? Choosing the right caterer may be your most important decision. Nobil Catering, with a five star rating from TheKnot.com, has served South Jersey’s most distinguished clients. Here’s what a few past clients have said about this Margate-based company: “The food was amazing.”

“The service was fantastic.”

“Our friends are still talking about the cocktail hour raw bar.”

“Thank you for making our daughter's wedding so magical.”

With raves like these, no wonder Nobil Catering is the caterer of choice for discerning clients in Atlantic and Cape May counties. For more than 22 years, Nobil Catering has been making good parties great, and special occasions spectacular.

It all starts with the right ingredients: exquisite dining choices, flawlessly executed by Nobil Catering’s talented crew; top-of-the-line food and beverage service; and an attention to detail that lets you relax and be a guest at your own party (for a change!).

Food for Thought Founded in 1995 by Norm Imber and Chef Bill McGinnity, Nobil Catering is truly a full-service catering company.

“We handle everything, from set-up to clean-up, or literally from soup to nuts,” says Imber. We provide a full staff, including seasoned chefs, servers, and bartenders. We can recommend a range of venues, and provide tables, chairs, linens, and tent rentals, at your request.”

The partnership of Imber and McGinnity has proven as enduring as the reputation the men have built. “We’ve had a 22-year marriage,” Imber says with a laugh. “It’s a very complementary relationship. Bill is the event planner, and manages all the private parties and I oversee operations, coordinate the big events, and assist in the planning and managing when needed.”

A short list of Nobil Catering’s corporate clients reads like a Who’s Who of noted regional organizations: The William J. Hughes FAA Technical Center; Atlantic Cape Community College; The Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce; Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa; Capaldi, Reynolds & Pelosi; Atlantic Electric and Conectiv Energy; AtlantiCare; the Chelsea Hotel; Caesars Hotel and Casino; and the Atlantic City Race Course.

Nobil Catering’s poised, professional staff upholds the highest standards of service — from elegant venues or laid-back barbecues, to parties on the beach. “We are flexible and can meet the diverse needs of our clients,” says Imber. “We can do anything, from intimate gatherings to big corporate events with thousands of guests.” At the 2017 Atlantic City Air Show, Nobil served 1,800 VIP guests for Borgata and the Atlantic City Chambers’ Flight Line Club.

“Of course, weddings are our specialty,” says Chef McGinnity, who takes special pleasure consulting one-on-one with brides, grooms and their families. “We strive to make every wedding customized for the bride and groom — there are no pre-packages. My only job is to make their day perfect. And anything I offer them, I can walk right into the kitchen and prepare.” He even gives customers his cell 18

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phone number, so they can reach him at all times.

Five-star-rated on the nation’s premier online wedding planner, TheKnot.com, the experts at Nobil Catering are dedicated to making your special day memorable and successful. Whether you’re looking for a lavish sit-down dinner or a cozy comfort-food buffet, let their experience be your guide.

The Life of the Party And now, more about that food … Nobil Catering’s menu of specialty appetizers includes: • Plump, crisp colossal shrimp with citrus cocktail • Filet and crab-cake sliders • Angus sliders with caramelized onions and blue cheese crumbles • Mushrooms stuffed to overflowing with fresh spinach and Boursin cheese • Sesame-encrusted chicken tenders with Thai chili • Scrumptious salmon canapes • Thai veggie dumplings in a tart pineapple ginger sauce • Tequila lime beef tenderloin on a garlic crostini • Dijon-encrusted lollipop lamb chops

Sensational sides include garlic roasted “smashed” potatoes; sweet potato soufflé; grilled marinated vegetables in season; and many more.

Considering stations? Right before your eyes, Nobil Catering’s friendly chefs can serve up everything from fajitas to filet mignon, pasta to sushi, along with artfully carved prime rib and even Bananas Foster for dessert.

But entrees are always the main event. Some specialties you can choose from include: • Marinated filet mignon • Jumbo lump crab cakes with corn relish • Herb-roasted prime rib with horseradish cream • Pan-seared shrimp and scallops scampi over couscous • Chicken Marsalena • Succulent lobster • Veal Oscar Better leave room for dessert! Nobil Catering’s skilled pastry chefs are renowned for beautifully-plated mini-pastries, including fruit tarts, eclairs, cream puffs, and other confections. The kids will be sure to love a sundae bar, complete with all their favorite toppings.

And look no further than Nobil Catering for exquisitely crafted wedding cakes.

At Your Service Are you ready to start planning?

Your Nobil Catering consultant will be there every step of the way; reviewing menu ideas (including vegetarian, gluten-free, and sugar-free options), and providing a total breakdown of your event package, ensuring there are no hidden fees, additional costs or other surprises.

For your next special event — whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, holiday party, seminar, or business lunch — rely on Nobil Catering for the finest quality in food service. You’ll find yourself saying, “Wow! That was incredible. We didn’t know Nobil could do that!” n For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit www. nobilfoodservices.com, or call 609-457-7112.

NOBIL CATERING

The exclusive caterer of theAre Ocean City Yacht Club with services across the region In South Jersey...We Catering!

EXCLUSIVE CATERER FOR THE OCEAN CITY YACHT CLUB PRIVATE EVENTS CORPORATE FUNCTIONS START TO FINISH WEDDING PLANNING IS THE EXCLUSIVE and event planner Ocean City Yacht Club and has obilOBIL has been serving southerncaterer New Jersey since 1995. for Withthe over EVENT PLANNERS

N N

service to clients in southern New Jersey 60provided years of exceptional combined experience, we have the expertise to pulland the Philadelphia metropolitan EXQUISITE WEDDINGS THE KNOT) for many years.

The Ocean City you’re Yacht Club is located on the bay and is a perfect setting for (BEST OFPROFESSIONAL offarea a perfect party or event.

Whether planning an intimate SPECIAL EVENTS AND COURTEOUS your special dinner for event.

4, or a major event for thousands, Nobil can handle every ELEGANT Nobil the experience and expertise to an pullexceptional off a perfecttime! party or event. Whether you’re planning a COCKTAIL PARTIES STAFF detailhas so you can relax, enjoy, and have dinner party for 10 guests, a baby shower for 50, or a wedding for 500, Nobil can handle every detail so youMITZVAHS BAR/BAT Our fabulous staff will take care of every detail WEDDINGS FOR can relax, enjoy, and have a fabulous time. They are South Jersey’s premier off-premisesHOLIDAY, wedding, privateAND ENGAGEMENT BIRTHDAY PARTIES, to make your special event extraordinary.

HUNDREDS, party caterer and event planner.

REHEARSAL DINNERS AND SHOWERS CORPORATE Bride-to-be? Give owner and chef Bill McGinnity a call. He and his experienced staff can handle yourFOR ALL OCCASIONS CATERING EVENTS FOR entire event including choosing a venue, entertainment and menu planning while still keeping you within CORPORATE FOOD SERVICE MANAGEMENT your budget. Since 1995, Nobil has provided truly memorable experiences for generations of brides and AND CATERING THOUSANDS grooms throughout southern New Jersey and the Philadelphia area.

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www.nobilfoodservices.com • (609)457-7112 • (609)822-3604 • email: bmcginnity@hotmail.com Call (609) 457-7112 • Visit www.nobilfoodservices.com

Lifestyle Leisure

By Molly Golubcow

All We are Saying is Give

Peace Pie

a Chance

Treat your taste buds to a new decadent dessert deliciously sweeping the New Jersey coastline

Triple chocolate brownie. Photo by Maryrose LaCavera

Close your eyes, relax, breathe. Visualize a peace(full) place filled with incredible ice cream sandwiches created with love and buckets of amazing flavors and combos like the Cinnamon Bun — homemade brown sugar ice cream, caramel, and vanilla mousse spread generously between two cinnamon cookies. Have I gotten your attention yet? No? How about the Jersey Devil — homemade blueberry ice cream, tart cherry pie filling, and vanilla mousse in between shortbread cookies?

OK, I’ll stop teasing your taste buds. Are ready to sink your teeth into this mini pie of Nirvana? Well, just open your eyes, and check out one of the local Peace stores in Ocean City, Cape May, or Ventnor offering over 40 versions of peace in a pie. But before you dash off, let’s learn how this wonderful creation was conceived.

It’s a Family Affair The Klause Family — Peace Pie creators extraordinaire — really knows how to make decadentlystuffed ice cream sandwiches. The idea was born one Thanksgiving about 10 years ago when Jerry Klause concocted a pecan pie shortbread a la mode lasagna for dessert. Like all good families at Thanksgiving, they attacked the large “pie” and broke it into smaller, hand-sized pieces devouring every crumb! As the family chewed, Klause knew in his business/culinary gut that he was on to something.

Joe Klause, Jerry’s son and Peace Pie coconspirator, describes how the concept spread to the family in almost spiritual terms, “My father was the first to see it was an ice cream sandwich. I like to say that the truth of Peace Pie revealed itself to my father first, and that I was the first disciple of it.”

Shortly thereafter, while schmoozing at the bar with friends at Steve & Cookies in Margate eating Cookie Till’s mouth-watering Peanut Butter Pie, Jerry Klause got the idea as to what to name his dessert. He jokingly realized that if everyone on earth would simultaneously eat a piece of the Peanut Butter Pie, there would be world peace instantly. Thus, the name Peace Pie was born for the Klause Family concoction.

For several summers after that “aha”

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Peace Pie in Cape May, NJ. Photo by Joe Klause

moment at Steve & Cookie’s, the Klause family (consisting of Jerry and his wife Joan, along with Joe and sister Maryrose) created and sold their version of an ice cream sandwich/pie hybrid at local farmer’s markets and fall festivals. Joe Klause remembers like it were yesterday when they sold their first Peace Pie at the Farmer’s Market in Margate — well, actually their first 12 pies since their first customer wanted a dozen.

“I remember my father and I looking at each other with money in our hand … I believe the words were, ‘Oh boy.’”

Everyone Jump on the Peace Pie Train In 2015, Peace Pie was such a success in the open market venue, the family decided to open their first store in Cape May. After a successful year at that location, Peace Pie spread to two locations in Charleston, South Carolina, as well as a store in St. Augustine, Florida — all by 2017. Since opening their New Jersey stores in 2015 (Cape May for three years and now Ocean City and Ventnor), over 100,000 Peace Pies were made and sold!

Although the Klauses love all of their stores, their Ventnor location especially touches the family because many customers who frequent that store have known about Peace Pie for years from the weekly Farmer’s Market in Margate. In fact, even though they have actual stores today, the family continues to sell at the Margate Farmer’s Market because it’s how and where they started their mission. Klause explains, “We walked into the Ventnor business with a lot of fans already in the area.”

There’s Truth in a Peace Pie So, what makes the 40 choices of Peace Pie a mouthful of peace? Mostly made with homemade ice cream like Crème Brule, Blueberry Cobbler, or Red Velvet plus other great ingredients like pie fillings, and mousse, Peace Pie offers something for everyone’s bucket list of pie/ice cream favorites. Social media giant, BuzzFeed, rates Peace Pie as “one of the best ice cream sandwiches in America.” And the word continues to spread, one bite at a time — a family dessert idea that turned into a successful business located in three different states in under 10 years.

Joe Klause zeroes in on the popularity of his product, “The homemade cookies are incredible. They are light and crunchy, unlike the soggy cookies of ice cream sandwiches past. We use all different types of ice cream in between, but it is the pie fillings and mousses and brownies and caramels and toffees that really make Peace Pie different. That is why we have a patent pending on the additional layer of flavor. On their own, the three parts are delicious, but put together, it creates a taste experience that no one has ever had.”

Peace Pie's bucket list flavors.

Photo by Maryrose LaCavera

Salted Caramel Peace Pie. Photo by Maryrose LaCavera

Look Out World After opening six stores in three states in three years, the Klause Family is understandably a bit “wiped out.” Tired they may be, but the Peace Pie mission is still alive and well. Klause speaks to that mission, “The beauty of Peace Pie is for the world to experience. My family and I feel grateful to be the shepherds of Peace Pie, but Peace Pie has an energy and will of its own. I expect that it will find its way to many corners of the world.”

In the meantime, the Klause Family will continue to offer their treats in existing locations (the Ventnor store probably staying open until December) and are currently working on the technology to take online orders and ship right to your door.

In addition, Peace Pie may create a second product — Peace Pops — their unique version of a popsicle. If future plans and six stores are not enough to keep them busy, the Klauses also want to add gluten-free and vegan options to their tasty menu as well.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for Peace Pie ice cream sandwiches! Don’t let peace melt away from you … Get thee to a Peace Pie-ery! n njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2017

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Charming Coastal Connecticut

Lifestyle Travel

Saybrook Point Sunrise with Lighthouse. Photo by Frank Gilroy Saybrook Point Inn

Awaken your senses as you rediscover the many wonders of New England in autumn Photos and Story By DAN SCHLOSSBERG Saybrook Point Marina

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Mystic Cove

Coastal Connecticut, so photogenic in summer, is even more brilliant when dressed in an autumnal bed of reds, yellows, and golds.

The 27-mile stretch from Saybrook to Mystic is a virtual painter’s palette that makes a perfect backdrop to the inns, resorts, and villages that hug the banks of rivers perpendicular to I-95, the major north-south route. Even Katharine Hepburn, a raving beauty herself, admired it.

The name and fame of the celebrated actress live on in the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, a vintage 1911 theater and museum listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

“The Kate” is not far from the Saybrook Point Inn, a handsome 104-room riverfront property that includes a spa and marina.

During its early incarnation as the Terra Mar, it was frequented by nefarious characters from gangsters to Hollywood’s Rat Pack, led by Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. A room full of historic pictures and documents includes a First Day Issue 44-cent stamp bearing Hepburn’s signature and a menu showing that a complete breakfast once went for a dollar.

Prices have changed with the times but so has service, not to mention the long list of amenities. A popular spot for weddings and business meetings, the inn features a main building, two guesthouses, a three-bedroom cottage, and a seasonal lighthouse suite concealed in a white tower above the marina’s dock house.

The inn also has two-story villas, a three-bedroom cottage, and a restaurant with the unlikely name of Fresh Salt — since its fishy fare is culled from both the saltwater of Long Island Sound and the fresh water of the Connecticut River.

John Lombardo, in his second stint as general manager at Saybrook Point Inn, spearheads a staff-wide environmental awareness that has steadily reduced the resort’s use of oil, gas, and electricity — and earned recognition as the “greenest” resort in the Nutmeg State. His wife tends to the multiple plants and flowerbeds that make the 28-year-old resort look much newer.

Guests seeking serenity can jump in the pool or hop onto a massage table at Sanno, a full-service spa with 11 treatment rooms. With a 125-slip marina, the Saybrook Point Inn has the potential to host more boats than people. That’s not a problem, however, because many vessels contain comfortable sleeping quarters.

Anyone considering fishing, sailing, or sightseeing by boat will enjoy the inn’s proximity to the marina. The Fire Bar on the terrace of the main building faces the river, making it a perfect place to nurse a drink at twilight time. Balconies of the guest houses across the street offer privacy for those who prefer a quiet commune with nature.

Walking is also a popular pastime, with the Old Saybrook Causeway, a section of Route 154, carrying cars, bicycles, and pedestrians nearly a mile around scenic South Cove on the Connecticut River. All seem most abundant at dawn and dusk because the sight of the early and late sun translates into the area’s best photo ops.

Not that there aren’t others: there are two working lighthouses, two taverns with even longer histories, and more than a half-dozen historic homes. Even the trees have been around for hundreds of years. Fort Saybrook Monument Park, across the street from the inn’s main lodge, is a 17-acre park tracing the history of Saybrook Colony, founded in 1635. It

Saybrook Inn Marina

Mystic drawbridge njlifestyleonline.com

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LIFEST YLE TRAVEL

A sailboat in Mystic River

Carved lighthouse at Saybrook Inn

Mystic Pizza that spawned the movie of the same name

includes a boardwalk, bird sanctuary, and railroad roundhouse.

Old Saybrook itself deserves its designation; its history, and some of its homes, pre-date the Revolutionary War. Bistros, boutiques, plus a plethora of art and antique galleries can keep curious visitors entertained for hours.

And it’s just a short hop to Essex, home of the Connecticut River Museum and an excursion that includes a steam rain in one direction and a paddlewheel steamboat in the other.

There’s also a steamboat in Mystic, a tiny port town known for its world-class aquarium, elaborate maritime museum, and a drawbridge that opens with a hoot that sounds like a steam locomotive. The bridge, built in 1922, is a tourist attraction of its own — though motorists trying to get through town on Route 1 find themselves frustrated while waiting for the enormous concrete blocks of the bascule bridge to come down after boat traffic has cleared.

Vessels of every description ply the Mystic River with regularity. The list includes yachts, sailboats, tall ships, a 1908 steamboat named the s/s Sabino, and the Charles W. Morgan, last of the great wooden whaling ships. Built in 1841, it is moored at Mystic Seaport, which also harbors three other floating National Historic Landmarks.

Views of the boats, harbor, and busy train tracks are best from The Inn at Mystic, built into the hillside above Williams Avenue, near the junction of Routes 1 and 27.

The only Mystic lodging to give guests views of Mystic Harbor and Fisher’s Island Sound, the Inn has three main buildings, dozens of different room configurations, and a chef wise enough to include chunks of fresh lobster in the lobster salad served at the popular Harbour House, adjacent to the inn’s pool. When weather permits, outdoor dining on the deck is both a spectator and participation sport. No artist could paint a prettier picture than the sight of lighted boats, buildings, and marinas as dusk fades into evening.

Wedding parties often stay at the Haley Mansion, a five-room 1904 structure adjacent to both the tent and parking areas reserved for such events. The remainder of the rooms are located in the Main Building, where breakfast is served on weekdays, and in the East Wing. The inn is built like a wedding cake — in layers — and cars climb the hilly terrain with little difficulty. Guests can also borrow bicycles, paddle kayaks through Pequotsepos Cove, or explore the scenic walking trail that hugs the eastern side of the enormous property.

Visitors who plan ahead would be wise to invest in the Mystic Pass Card, which provides discounts for the aquarium, seaport, and the Mashantucket Pequot Museum.

All are worthwhile, with Mystic Seaport tops on the must-see list. The top maritime museum in the United States, it includes a 19th century coastal village, working preservation shipyard, and planetarium in addition to its fleet of historic vessels.

History even lives at B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill, the last steam-powered cider mill in New England. Family-owned and operated since 1881, it dispenses fresh cider daily during the months of autumn.

A short hop from downtown Mystic are the enormous Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos, the seaside village of Stonington, and a submarine museum where visitors can board the Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered U-boat. And don’t leave the area without sampling a slice from Mystic Pizza, the little shop that spawned the movie of the same name. It was the first film appearance by an unknown actress named Julia Roberts.

For further information, contact the Saybrook Point Inn & Spa, Two Bridge Street, Old Saybrook CT 06475, Tel. 860-395-2000, www.saybrook.com; The Inn at Mystic, 3 Williams Avenue, Mystic CT 06355, Tel. 860-536-9604, www.innatmystic.com; Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Avenue, Mystic CT 06355, Tel. 888-973-2767, www. mysticseaport.org; Mystic Aquarium, 55 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic CT 06355, Tel. 860572-5955, www.mysticaquarium.org. n Dan Schlossberg of Fair Lawn, NJ is travel editor of New Jersey Lifestyle and host of two weekly radio shows, Travel Itch Radio and Travel Tuesdays. He is also the founder of the North American Travel Journalists Association [NATJA].

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Health Watch

Robin Stoloff and Taylor Amerman of Brown-Forman cheer with their Coagulated Mary's created by Pete Bennett from Ducktown Tavern

John's Chocolate Chip Delight created by Kathy Ryan from Windjammer

No-Jito created by Lauren Genova from Tomatoes in Margate

Award-Winning Mocktails

DELICIOUS CREATIONS WERE SERVED UP DURING THE HEROTINI MOCKTAIL CHALLENGE BENEFITTING THE JOHN R. ELLIOTT HERO CAMPAIGN FOR DESIGNATED DRIVERS. COAGULATED MARY, BERRY SOBERTINI, CHERRY LIFESAVER, MINT TO GET YOU HOME — just a few of the many alcohol-free beverages entered in the first ever HEROtini Mocktail Challenge benefitting the John R. Elliot Hero Campaign for Designated Drivers. More than thirty taverns and restaurants in Atlantic and Cape May counties participated in this competition throughout the summer, all vying to be named the best HEROtini. The zero-proof drinks received more than 350,000 online votes, which were narrowed down to the top 10 finalists. The event culminated in mid-September with the winners in several categories being crowned at the “HEROtini Mocktail Challenge Happening” at Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club in Galloway. Winners were selected for Best HERO bartender, Most Creative Name, and Best Establishment. I was honored to be one of the six judges that participated in the selection of the HEROtini to determine the ultimate winner of the Best HEROtini Mocktail.

The beverages were certainly interesting, to say the least. The Coagulated Mary, created by Pete Bennett from Ducktown Tavern and Liquors in Atlantic City, included a “garnish” of sliders with a fried egg, bacon, and avocado hanging over the edge on a skewer. I did not know whether to eat it or drink it! It won the Talk of the Town Award — Most Distinctive and Memorable Drink Name. If that was a 26

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meal, then John’s Chocolate Chip Delight, created by Kathy Ryan from Windjammer in Somers Point, was dessert. It was a coconut-based drink topped with whipped cream and a cookie. After tasting ten different beverages, the other judges and I were certainly stuffed by the end of the evening!

The top prize went to … .drumroll please … the No-Jito, created

by Lauren Genova from Tomatoes in Margate. It was a very light and refreshing beverage modeled after the rum-based Mojito. It is made with lime and mint, blueberry puree, lemonade, and a splash of club soda; garnished with fresh mint leaves and lime slices. The mocktails were as creative as they were delicious, and the 33 participants in the competition should be proud to have helped support such a worthwhile cause.

While the promotion was a tremendous success, generating a good-natured rivalry among taverns and restaurants, the message behind the HEROtini Mocktail Challenge is a serious one. “We came up with the HEROtini Challenge as a reflection of who John was as a person,” states John’s mother Muriel Elliot who conceived the idea.

“The competition to find the best non-alcoholic mocktail has been a fun way to make an important point. Designated drivers are the answer to drunk driving, and with a non-alcoholic HEROtini, they

By ROBIN STOLOFF

can still have fun and keep everyone safe.”

The Elliott family has devoted their lives to this mission since losing their son and brother more than 17 years ago to a drunk driver. In 2000 John Elliott, a graduate of the Naval Academy, was travelling to New Jersey from Annapolis for his mother’s birthday. Sadly, John never made the birthday celebration. He was killed by a drunk driver who had previously been arrested on DUI charges and released to a friend who let him get back into his car. Still drunk, he tragically hit John’s car, killing John and himself.

While suffering this unimaginable grief, Bill and Muriel Elliott along with their daughter Jennifer, vowed to do everything in their power to prevent this tragedy from happening to other families. That is when the Hero Campaign was born. The name was derived from a distinction John had earned at the Naval Academy as a Human Education Resource Officer (HERO).

HEROs are elected by their peers to counsel and mentor other members of their company. John was selected as the outstanding HERO in his graduating class.

Since then, the non-profit Hero Campaign has partnered with law enforcement agencies, schools and colleges, bars, taverns and restaurants, the U.S. Navy, professional sports teams, state divisions of highway safety and community chapters across the country. They raise funds through several events, including a golf tournament in the spring and walk in the fall on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

The Elliott family, the Hero Campaign staff and a team of volunteers work tirelessly to promote their crucial mission. “We believe the HERO Campaign is gaining traction and making the use of designated drivers more automatic in people’s lives. There is a whole generation of young people who have now grown up hearing and heeding the HERO Campaign message to be a designated driver,” says Bill, who is campaign chairman and CEO. So now that these fabulous zero-proof beverages have been developed, what is the next step? “We now plan to market the HEROtini Mocktail recipe book and make it available to the general public,” notes Bill. “We believe the HEROtini brand and mocktails will become synonymous, and people will begin asking for them by name at their favorite bars and restaurants.”

The hope is that they will be enjoyed by the designated driver, as they help to advance the message of safe and sober driving.

The work of the HERO Campaign is made possible by corporate gifts, Federal and State Grants, and through private donations from individuals dedicated to saving lives by being and using designated drivers. To donate to the HERO Campaign or learn more about it, visit www.herocampaign.org. n Robin Stoloff is a former TV Health Reporter for NBC 40 in South Jersey. She currently hosts a Sunday morning radio show on Lite Rock 96.9 called Living Well with Robin Stoloff. Robin has also returned to television, producing and hosting health features for SNJ Today (channels 4 and 26). You can see her features every Tuesday night in the 7 PM and 11 PM newscasts. A fitness instructor and former fitness competitor, Robin produced her own workout video on the beaches of Atlantic City. Robin resides in Atlantic County with her two children and husband, attorney Richard Stoloff. Visit Robin on her Facebook page — “Health Update with Robin Stoloff” for health tips and video features.

Steve Van Natten of D'Amato Law Firm (a sponsor) with Muriel and Bill Elliott, chairman and CEO of the HERO Campaign. In the background from left is Jennifer Adamchak (John's sister) and her husband Mike, Dan Skeldon and Michelle Dawn Mooney.

Facts from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Every day, 28 people in the United States die in an alcohol-related vehicle crash — that's one person every 51 minutes. n

Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (i.e., drunk drivers) are considered alcohol-impaired by law. n

About one in three traffic deaths in the United States involve a drunk driver. n

Drunk drivers got behind the wheel millions of times in 2010. n

Drunk driving fatalities have fallen by a third in the last three decades; however, drunk driving crashes claim more than 13,000 lives per year. n

These deaths and damages contribute to a cost of $52 billion per year.

njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Fall 2017

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Lifestyle Theatre

An Encore for the Gateway A BELOVED LOCAL THEATRE REOPENS WITH MUCHANTICIPATED SUCCESS

Clockwise from top, entrance to the Gateway Playhouse in Somers Point, theatre's board members, the theatre's interior, tile wall inside the Gateway Playhouse.

THE APPLAUSE HADN’T SUBSIDED FROM Andrea McArdle’s gala performance at the Gateway Playhouse when several of the people responsible for the theatre’s revitalization were back at work, preparing for the venue’s next performance.

“We’re rehearsing from 11 AM until 2 PM, and then Andrea McArdle’s 28

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matinee is at 3 PM,” explained Jim Dalfonso, Chairman of the Theater Collaborative of South Jersey, the nonprofit organization charged with rebuilding and operating the Somers Point venue. Dalfonso is also the managing partner of the Shaken Not Stirred Players, who presented Broadway

By Request as part of the Gateway’s

grand opening festivities and produced the acclaimed musical She Loves Me just a few weeks later.

“It probably sounds overly ambitious to plan a rehearsal right in the middle of an evening gala and a matinee, but we think it’s important to keep this incredible momentum going,” said Dalfonso. “We didn’t want to host one

fantastic evening of entertainment and then go dark for a month while we prepare the next show. The community has been waiting patiently for the Gateway to open, and we want to deliver, not only with the building, but also with outstanding programming.”

A look at the theatre’s upcoming schedule indicates that the Gateway is delivering in a big way, with a full schedule of events this fall. From atmospheric operas such as Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Medium (October 21) to provocative new works like Shade (October 26-27) to classic plays such as Our Town (November 3-5, 10-12), the theatre offers a wide range of opportunities for audiences to be entertained, educated, and inspired.

“We’re thrilled that we’re attracting so many outstanding productions,” said Keith Cooper, Executive Director of Gateway Playhouse. “Clearly, there is a need for this venue, and it’s gratifying to be able to fulfill that need.” Cooper, who brings a wealth of experience as a performer and entertainment administrator to the Gateway, is committed to both quality and diversity in programming.

For Dalfonso, Cooper, and the other members of the Theater Collaborative of South Jersey’s Board of Directors, the opening of the Gateway Playhouse is the culmination of nearly a decade of work.

In 2008, Somers Point’s City Council distributed a Request for Proposals to refurbish the deteriorating building, and Dalfonso assembled a more-thanqualified group to respond. He has a background in music, having studied at the prestigious Eastman School of Music and Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music. As an interior finish specialist at Erco Interior Systems, he also knows construction. His wife, Debby Jenkins Dalfonso, is a music teacher at Middle Township High School — and a fellow Hoosier.

The couple was performing in Pirates of Penzance with Margate Little Theater when they met cast mate Keith Cooper, also an Indiana University graduate.

Personalities clicked, Hoosier Pride was shared, and the trio became fast friends.

A performance in a local production of Playhouse as the Artistic Director of the The Secret Garden brought the Dalfonsos South Jersey Regional Theater. another dear friend. Karen Sutherland, The group has a variety of distinct who had appeared in the original talents, but one attribute they share is Broadway productions of Pippin and commitment. From planning at least The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas and one fundraiser each year to cleaning worked with the likes of Bob Fosse and out the debris left by Hurricane Sandy, Juliet Prowse, was asked to choreograph the group has worked tirelessly to a waltz scene for the couple. When the bring the theater back to life. Perhaps RFP for the theatre was distributed, the Dalfonsos, "The community has been Cooper, and Sutherland waiting patiently for the Gateway developed a proposal to to open, and we want to deliver, not repair the theatre and a only with the building, but also business plan for ongoing management. “We were with outstanding programming." awarded the lease to the theatre, so with that, we started building the best example of the group’s the Board of Directors and jumped into persistence is their response to the fundraising,” said Dalfonso.

Pepsi Refresh Challenge, in which That Board of Directors — a unique nonprofit organizations collected bottle combination of educators and business caps for the chance to win grants. “The people, of performers and theatre Board really came together to win lovers — is just as impressive as the that funding,” recalls Debbie Jenkins building they have reconstructed.

Dalfonso. “My students brought caps Layne and Karen Buckingham, partners to school, our local utilities authority in the Avalon Golf Club, have hosted employees pulled caps for us, and then numerous fundraisers, while Kelly the Buckinghams suggested visiting Briggs, who performed on Broadway local recycling centers. When you’re and in the national tours of Cats and knee-deep in garbage hunting for little Les Miserables, brings an insider’s yellow caps, you know you’re dedicated view of the stage. Greg Dragon, an to the cause.” anesthesiologist at Cape Regional That dedication brought the group Medical Center, has performed in three $50,000 grants from Pepsi dozens of local productions, while Refresh. “Thanks to our Board and our WiserLink Advertising and Public community, our little-theatre-that-could Relations partner Lori Link offers was competing in the same league with marketing expertise and design services. national foundations,” said Jenkins Victoria Biron, Assistant to the Dalfonso. With Dalfonso, Cooper, and Director of Stockton University’s the Theater Collaborative at the helm, Noyes Arts Garage, has appeared in the Gateway Playhouse will become many community productions, and much more than the little-theatre-thatBetty Burke, formerly the Director of could. The 107-year old gem is well on Organizational Development at Shore its way to becoming a cultural hub that Medical Center, worked closely with the attracts 12,000 people to Somers Point Charlotte Cushman Library & Theatre each year.

Museum Club in Philadelphia. Claire “Our neighbors and elected officials Collins is the Music Department Chair have been unbelievably supportive,” at Holy Spirit High School, while Pat said Dalfonso. “We look forward to Puglise founded and managed the Sea giving something back to them.” n Isle City Players. Katie Calvi, who has worked in corporate human resources The Gateway Playhouse is located at 738 for Kate Spade New York, has a special Bay Avenue in Somers Point. For times and tie to the Gateway. Her grandfather, ticket prices, visit the Gateway Playhouse Paul Aiken, Jr., operated the Gateway website at www.gatewaybythebay.org. njlifestyleonline.com

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Lifestyle Entertainment

One of the Lucky Ones Spending a lifetime in the music business, one gifted trumpet virtuoso has realized his dream

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By David J. Spatz

Playing in old, broken-down dives for very little

money is one of the time-honored traditions for musicians just getting started and hoping to turn their love for music into a full-time job.

Trumpet virtuoso Chris Botti, whose mastery of jazz, pop, and classical music made him one of music’s most sought-after sidemen before he became a star in his own right, was one of the lucky ones.

Other than some gigs in “okay” nightclubs when he was a community college student, Botti really hadn’t experienced the yin that comes before the yang for someone trying to make it in the music business. But before playing Atlantic City recently, the 54-yearold Grammy-winning instrumentalist finally got booked for a gig at a building that’s been slowly falling apart since it was built around 2,000 years ago.

A week before his gig at Caesars Atlantic City, Botti (pronounced BOH-tee) discovered what it was like to play a venue where descendants of the real Julius Caesars, the ancient Roman dictator, took in shows and sporting events. He wrapped up a short European concert tour in early September by making his debut in one of the world’s oldest and most rarely used concert joints that, after two millennia, is really showing its age.

“There’s one other show we’re doing before we come to Atlantic City, and it’s really going to be fun,” Botti said during a pre-tour phone call from his home in Hollywood Hills, Ca. On Sept. 7, Botti joined classical singing star Andrea Bocelli and British pop legend Sir Elton John — plus other world-renowned artists — for Bocelli’s annual fundraising concert televised live from the Coliseum in Rome. He’s played some of the world’s top tier concert venues, including Carnegie Hall as a teenager, but he admitted playing the Coliseum was going to be an amazing experience.

“I’ve been to the Coliseum for photo shoots before, but I’ve never played there,” said the Oregon native, who actually lived in Italy for two years during his childhood. “Actually, I don’t think they do very many concerts there any more.”

Or at least not concerts that feature the trumpet styling of Botti, who can tone it down to soft and sexy or let loose with notes that — like the biblical Jericho — could literally blow down the crumbling walls.

Botti took a circuitous route to achieve the stardom he enjoys today. His mother, a

part-time piano teacher, introduced her son to music, and Botti began studying the trumpet when he was 9-years-old. He was on the fence about continuing trumpet lessons until he was 12 and heard the legendary jazz trumpeter Miles Davis’ play his soft and sensuous interpretation of the ballad “My Funny Valentine.”

That lit the fire for Botti, and he immersed himself in the instrument. He became so proficient that at 17 he was chosen for the McDonald’s All-American High School Band, where he played Carnegie Hall.

He convinced his high school to let him finish his senior year by attending classes and earning credits for his high school diploma at a local community college. He took classes by day, and gigged in area clubs at night.

Major musicians began to recognize his talent and potential and took the young Botti under their wings. Most are names you might not recognize, but they were considered gods in jazz and pop music circles.

Botti continued to develop and fine tune his chops, and learn musical composition, by attending Indiana University. His diploma was in sight, but Botti dropped out during his senior year.

Many considered it a mistake, since he was so close to earning his degree. But Botti knew he was doing the right thing. He left school to go on the road and play in bands that backed up explosive drummer Buddy Rich and the iconic Frank Sinatra. That’s not exactly stuff you can “learn” in a classroom or practice hall.

In 1990, Botti hooked up with Paul Simon and spent a decade playing behind Rhymin’ Simon, including the now legendary 1991 show in New York’s Central Park that was part of Simon’s “The Rhythm of the Saints” tour. If you’re good enough to play for Paul Simon, then you’re good enough to play for anyone in the business.

Botti became one of the most sought-after session musicians in the business. He played live or during studio gigs with mostly singers that represented a broad cross section of the music business: R & B star Natalie Cole, soul queen Aretha Franklin, sassy Bette Midler, and The Who’s front man Roger Daltrey. That pretty much explains his ability to move so easily between musical genres.

By the mid-1990s, Botti began releasing his own albums and racked up four number one albums on the jazz charts and has received

five Grammy nominations, winning one of the golden trophies. Prior to his Caesars gig last month, Botti started off his tour with a few sets in Mexico. Then it was on to Latvia and Poland, where he’s considered a huge musical start, so much so that he fills arenas.

Other than the United States, the only country where he performs more than Poland is Japan. “In Poland, I’m guessing 40 to 50% speak (English), so I can talk to them during the show, although I speak a little slowly,” Botti said.

Japan — actually, most of Asia — is a different story. Botti likes to throw in some jokes between songs, but that requires a little extra help when he’s performing in Asia, where he said few of the indigenous people speak English.

“Sometimes if we’re in Japan or something, I’ll get a translator for the humor effect, ‘cause obviously nobody speaks English in Japan,” he said with a laugh. The only thing worse than a joke that dies is one that people don’t understand because of a language barriers, most comedians will admit.

Botti, whose fans range from kids to people well into their senior years, feels his musical diversity is what’s helped him earn a broad demographic of fans. Except there’s about a 10 year demographic gap that Botti said he’ll probably never fill.

“I think my audience (age) is 8 to 20, and then 30 to 80. I think God comes down when you’re 20 and sends you to (the) Coachella (music festival),” he says with a big laugh, referring to the 10-day California music and arts festival where the music is mostly rock, indie, hip hop and electronic dance music — essentially nothing that’s on any Botti set list.

“But for younger musicians and people who are a little more sophisticated about music, that’s our real demo,” he adds. “Which I’m very happy about because it’s such a large demo.”

During his one-night stand at Caesars, Botti’s audience heard a musical “variety show,” as he described it. He and his band moved fluidly between classical, jazz, rock n’roll and pop. Botti even added a little comedy — no translator needed — to make it a well-rounded variety show.

“All the musicians — the drummer, the violinist, the pianist — they’re the best in the world,” he said. “So I’ve been fortunate to not only get them to do my gigs, but to keep them on my gigs, and that’s very special to me.” n njlifestyleonline.com

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Lifestyle Art

Smithville artist Joseph PfeifferHerbert leans over his work table covered with brushes, varnish, and pencils used for creating his gold leaf drawings.

Adding Dimension The meticulous eye of a painter sees subtleties others simply overlook.

Joseph working at his easel. The gold leaf has already been applied to the paper, and at this point he is going over the paper and gold with layers of charcoal. A mahl stick is used to prevent his hand from smudging the surface of the drawing.

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By BETH WADE Photography by ERIC WEEKS ANTIQUES, ODDITIES, PILES OF BOOKS — none of these are in his workspace. Though you might envision him in a secluded room of a distinguished old house with long windows that allow for good natural light, that’s not part of the scene either.

Painter Joseph Pfeiffer-Herbert depends mainly on one resource — the one that rests above his shoulders.

There’s his remarkable natural memory for faces, which, as is his habit, he paints last. He’s also got a keen eye for njlifestyleonline.com

nuance. In order to achieve so much detail with varying shades of black, he applies one to three layers of black — alternating charcoal and brushing. For certain details, he mixes water with charcoal dust that he delicately applies with a steady hand.

In contrast to these intricate techniques, is a plain wooden, felt-lined box where he keeps his tools. Charcoal pencils. A few erasers, some of which are now darkened and muddy. A small vial for collecting charcoal dust. Brushes of varying thicknesses.

His implements may be minimal and unfussy but, while watching him work, it’s easy to see how a painting can quickly accumulate 40-60 hours of work. That’s his The artist refines his skills by copying the works of great masters such as William Bouguereau. Instead of remaking the active time in the studio, he says. Additional famous painting in oils, Joseph uses his gold leaf and charcoal technique to put his own spin on the classic painting. hours are invested in planning each painting before he ever stands in front of the easel. subjects in his paintings. He’s painted other people’s children, though, by Most often he’s inspired by a growing personal collection of commission. And, the painting that he considers his favorite incorporates photographs which he’s taken of people; some professional models, others a child. Hanging above the mantle in his living room, it’s a coveted piece of individuals he knows. The process, he explains, is to study a photo, he says he’d never choose to sell. It’s based on an original by French artist, which is mainly the human form, (usually plain, no backdrop), then William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1902). In his collection of charcoal paint what he imagines — the location, what they’re wearing, background and gold-leaf paintings, which now number 27, he shows a fondness for details. that famous French painter, as well as the fantasy genre.

Usually he plays music while he works — typically something His earliest paintings focus solely on one subject. Over time, he’s added instrumental, classical or a familiar album like “Sergeant Peppers” — but surrounding details such as landscape or furniture. His future hopes are on this particular night he’s giving an interview and the scratching sound to paint multiple subjects and create more complicated backgrounds. of the charcoal pencil fills the space on the white canvas and in the room.

Recently, he’s begun working with larger canvases that measure 4 feet in It would be enough, the black and white contrast, with his talent and height. ability, but Pfeiffer-Herbert punctuates his work with an unusual, grand At age 36, Pfeiffer-Herbert has many years ahead of him to refine and element called gold leaf. enrich his craft. And, given the aspect of his personality — the one he This delicate, thin paper is made from a variety of grades of gold that describes as persistent self-criticism — he’s going to reach much greater is hammered flat. Applying the paper to his paintings is a technique he’s heights. mastered though trial and error. Once a painting is sketched, he applies an “It’s constant, the need for improvement,” he explains. “I think when an adhesive to the areas that he wants to cover with gold leaf, then, when dry, artist finds their work is perfect, they plateau. They become comfortable he carefully teases away the excess. and then repeat. You start to see their work begins to look alike.”

“I add dimension by drawing over top of the gold leaf, which makes it For the rest of us who have the opportunity to appreciate his art, it’s a feel like part of the picture. Blended,” he explains, gesturing to a string of good thing Pfeiffer-Herbert isn’t complacent. He originally set out to be a enchanting butterflies that pass through a painting called, “Butterflies in math teacher, but realized it wasn’t the right fit for him. Art was always a Gold,” one of his personal favorites. pastime; and he grew up in a family with a painter, pastel artist, quilter, art In other paintings, the gold leaf is used to create jewelry, the sun, a teacher and a sculptor. crown, a floral headpiece, or even details of an owl. He began using gold Math finds its way into his work, though, he says, as he considers leaf while seeking the ideal yellow for accenting original black and white the ease with which he draws correct proportions in a figure. Abstract paintings. His earlier works used black, white, and a one — just one — thinking, not so much calculating problems with exact answers, is another pencil of color. natural talent that serves him well in creating artwork.

Pfeiffer-Herbert is formally trained in Classical Realism, which he “I always thought art would be a hobby for me, something I did after studied at the Academy of Realist Art in Boston. It is characterized by my day job, but I was told that if I wanted to be really good at this, that appreciation of the visible world with an emphasis on skill and beauty.

I’d have to give my time to it,” recalls Pfeiffer-Herbert. “And that was good Sometimes, he says, people will compare his work to the quality of advice.” The artist has won six awards in various competitions around a photograph, which is intended as a compliment. Pfeiffer-Herbert the country, with the most prestigious being a Juror’s Choice Award at understands that, but sees it differently. the Northeast Prize Show, Cambridge Arts Association in Cambridge, “I’m not trying to match reality. As an artist, I’m finding ways to make a Massachusetts in 2011. more beautiful version of it,” he said.

Pfeiffer-Herbert has lived in various parts of the country, including He doesn’t say that — nor does he mean it — in a stuffy, hoity-toity Boston and Oregon. He was born and raised in Olympia, Washington, way. Pfeiffer-Herbert is about as down-to-earth as they come. While but currently resides in Galloway. His work is shown and available online, his wife Anna teaches at Stockton, he’s a stay at home dad. In fact, he but his art is also sold in three galleries in the United States including explained that he chose this particular mixed media form of art so he can Williamsburg Art Gallery in VA; Modern Eden in San Francisco; and the stop/start easily around the kids’ sleep schedule.

Revolution Gallery in Buffalo, New York.

Pfeiffer-Herbert has two young children, but neither of them are To view and price artwork in his collection, visit www.jphfinearts.net.n njlifestyleonline.com

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On Wheels

The Best of Both Worlds

By ELAINE ROSE

THE VERSATILE DODGE DURANGO IS BIG AND BRAWNY … AND PACKED FULL OF CHARM

2018 Dodge Durango SRT

2018 Dodge Durango SRT rear view

2018 Dodge Durango SRT's interior

YOU CRAVE A MACHO CAR THAT ROARS UP THE HIGHWAY, makes you feel like you’re a competitor in the Indy 500, and attracts admiring stares — or envious glares — from other drivers. Admit it, you like the attention.

But there’s one slight problem. You have a couple of kiddos who bring a ton of gear to baseball or hockey practice, and you’ll need to haul luggage when you travel to visit your family for the holidays. So that Chevy Corvette or Porsche Spyder you’re drooling over just isn’t in the cards.

Enter the Dodge Durango, which may well be the best of both worlds.

And yes, a couple of reviewers actually tested the highest trim level on the Indianapolis Speedway. That’s some real street cred.

“The Durango remains big, brawny, and masculine in an era of soft, curvaceous crossovers — and it’s also not as trucklike as other large SUVs,” the editors at Car and Driver summed up.

“When it comes to SUVs, the Durango offers the most swagger and charm in this humdrum segment, and that’s why we’ve named it to our Editors Choice list multiple times,” Drew Dorian wrote for Car and Driver.

It is “a reasonable compromise for drivers who’d prefer a muscle car but

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who can’t make a two-door coupe work with their lifestyle.”

If you want to tow a boat to the shore or your offspring’s stuff in a trailer on the way to college, the Durango is just about the strongest SUV for that purpose. If you’d rather place your stuff inside the cabin, the Durango has nearly 85 cubic feet of storage with the second and third rows folded.

And it’s pure American muscle.

Now in its third generation, the Durango was introduced for the 1998 model year. It shared several features with the Dakota pickup, and was designed to carry seven passengers. It was originally manufactured in nearby Newark, Del. The second generation was for the 2004 to 2009 model years, and also made in Newark.

Chrysler closed its Newark plant in the fall of 2009 after the demand for large SUVs started to taper off. But the Durango didn’t stay off the market for long. The third-generation Durango, now made in Detroit, shares its power train and chassis with the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Fitting between mid-size and full-size SUVs, the Durango comes in six trim lines that can accommodate almost any budget and driving preference. Suggested base prices start at a reasonable $29,995 and go up to the recently introduced SRT starting at $62,995. The engines get more powerful as you move up the line.

• The entry-level SXT comes with a 3.6-liter, six-cylinder Pentastar engine with 295 horsepower. Fuel economy isn’t too shabby, as the SXT gets an EPA rated 19 mpg in town and 26 on the highway. It is capable of towing up to 6,200 pounds.

• The SXT Plus, with a base price of $32,195, has the same engine, but adds a few goodies like Sirius satellite radio, eight-way power-adjusted seats, and roof rails.

• Go up a notch to the GT for $37,495, and you get a little more comfort and pizazz with leather-trimmed bucket seats, heated first- and second-row seats, and 20-inch aluminum wheels.

• The Citadel starts at $41,395, and adds seats trimmed in Nappa leather, polished wheels, and dual exhaust.

• Spend a few more bucks for the R/T, starting at $42,095, and you get a more powerful 5.7-liter, Hemi eight-cylinder engine with 360 horsepower. It comes with performance steering and sport suspension and the well-regarded Uconnect infotainment system and BeatsAudio premium sound. This baby can tow up to 7,400 pounds. But you’ll also pay a little more at the gas pump, as the R/T is rated at 14 mpg city and 22 on the open road.

• The top-of-the-line SRT, introduced this summer, packs some serious power with a 6.4-liter, Hemi, V8 engine with 475 horsepower and the ability to tow up to 8,600 pounds. Fuel efficiency ratings are not yet available. This is the version that was tested in Indianapolis.

“Romping around Indy in a two-and-a-half-ton, high-center-of-gravity stuff hauler should bring about exorbitant understeer and body roll, or worse,” Robin Warner wrote for Auto Week. “But no, the SRT is competent, which is high praise for this class of vehicle.”

All trim levels come with eight-speed automatic transmission and rearwheel drive, with optional all-wheel drive. All levels except the base SXT have three rows of seats that can hold seven passengers, unless you opt for captain’s chairs in the second row, in which case, it holds six. (The SXT is a five-seater, with a third row optional.) Most reviewers say that the third row is comfortable even for large adults, but a couple would recommend that seating for only short distances.

For those above-mentioned kiddos, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives the Durango a four-star (out of five) rating, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Durango its highest “good” rating on all but one test. So you can rest assured your most precious cargo is well-protected.

So what’s it like to drive?

Weighing in at 4,942 pounds, the Durango is one of the heaviest SUVs

on the market. So don’t expect the quick acceleration that you’d get with the same engine in a smaller body. One test on the GT trim line showed zero to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds.

But that doesn’t mean you’ll feel like you’re driving a tank.

“Durango blends offers tight handling while delivering a composed and comfortable ride over bumps and ruts,” Edmunds wrote, but they recommend upgrading to the eight-cylinder engine for stronger acceleration, and especially if you plan to hitch a trailer to the rear.

“In order to be the ideal photo vehicle, the ride needs to be sporty enough to maintain speed in the turns as well as soft enough not to jostle me too much while I’m trying to photograph the car behind,” professional cameraman William Walker wrote for Motor Trend. “The Durango manages to accomplish this balance fairly well and has proven to be a welcomed addition.”

Walker, testing the middle-of-the-line GT trim, also praised the Durango’s appearance and creature comforts.

“Walking up to the Durango for the first time, there is no denying that it is a sharp-looking vehicle,” Walker wrote. It has a “tensed, drawn-back look, which makes it look sporty even though it’s a large three-row SUV.” The leather-wrapped interior, heated seats and steering wheel, and an 8.4-inch touch screen make the Durango GT a pleasure to occupy, Walker wrote.

“The Durango delivers a refined, upmarket feel with soft-touch materials nearly everywhere,” Andrew Ganz wrote for The Car Connection.

“Higher-end versions like the Citadel and SRT toss in fragrant, soft leather upholstery and even some hints of synthetic suede.”

The car handles well, but there’s room for improvement, Ganz wrote.

“The Durango’s steering is hefty but delivers precise handling in all models,” he wrote. “Ride quality from SXT and Citadel models is firm but sufficiently supple; other models are stiffer with the SRT bordering on harsh. You’ll find some annoying body drumming over particularly poor pavement with the available 20-inch alloy wheels, however, so shop carefully if you live where frost heaves are a fact of life.”

Consumer Reports says the Durango handles responsively, with a “composed and comfortable” feel. The interior makes the ride “sophisticated and substantial,” and the infotainment system is one of the best on the market. It ranks above average in owner satisfaction.

Of course, no vehicle is perfect, and the Durango does have a few drawbacks. Consumer Reports ranks the Durango as having below average reliability, which means more trips — and money — to the dealer or your friendly neighborhood mechanic. The fuel economy, especially with the V8 engines, means more of your budget will be spent at the gas station.

And the top-tier SRT has an intake that is low to the ground, which means that driving it on rough terrain is not a good idea, Car and Driver noted. If you really do have to go over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house for Thanksgiving, select a different trim line.

So now you have some decisions to make.

Do you want to get a good price on a 2017 Durango as the dealers are trying to clear out the show rooms for the 2018 models, or wait for the latest? Except for the new Durango SRT, any changes to the 2018 models are likely to be quite minor, reviewers noted. You may be better off getting a deal on this year’s model rather than waiting for next year’s.

And with six trim levels and three engines to choose from — even if you have your heart set on a Durango — you have to do some thoughtful consideration. Reviewers recommend you carefully contemplate what safety features and comforts you really need or want before selecting your trim and options.

After all, why spend your hard-earned money on accoutrements that add nothing to your driving experience, when you can probably get exactly what matters most for the right price? Besides, you’ll want to save that cash for the sports car you plan to buy once the kids grow up and leave home. n njlifestyleonline.com

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Experience Smithville in this Prestigious Neighborhood!

Welcome to one of Smithville’s most prestigious developments. This huge home boasts 5 full bedrooms, 1 of which is on the first floor, and the other 4 up, as well as 3 full baths. The 5th bedroom could also be used as an office if so desired. Family room has a sweeping 2 story ceiling with tons of windows allowing the room to be drenched in natural light, all centered around the gas fireplace as the focal point. The great room is adjacent and open to not only the catwalk above, but also the kitchen which is perfect for entertaining. The open kitchen has great appliances, an abundance of counter space, a great pantry and even offers an eat-in area. The sliding door in the kitchen leads to a gorgeous custom EP Henry paver patio and entertainment area. This area is lushly landscaped and offers so much beauty and tranquility. This corner lot proves to be larger than most lots opening up more possibilities. 1st floor also features a formal living room and dining room at the front foyer entrance area and are extremely inviting with their grand presence. The 2nd floor boasts 4 comfortably sized bedrooms with the master suite having a true grand presence. You will not be disappointed with this amazing area.

Amazingly comfortable and inviting despite its size. HUGE unfinished english basement has light and plenty of storage space! Community POOLS, GYM and more are close by.

Call to see this home today.

Christian Lucia, Realtor-Associate/Consultant Smithville All-Pro Realtors Office: 609.652.9944 • Cell: 609.992.1051 Web: HomesBuyChris.com Email: HomesBuyChris@gmail.com 36

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LIFESTYLE

MONEYWATCH

Explaining “Backdoor Roth IRAs” Learn how higher income earners can contribute to a Roth IRA ROTH IRAS ARE A POWERFUL WAY TO SAVE FOR RETIREMENT. Contributions into a Roth IRA are not tax deductible. However, the earnings in the account accumulate tax deferred, and can be distributed completely tax free after age 59 ½, provided 5 years have elapsed since the tax year of your first Roth contribution.

Many investors who might otherwise contribute to a Roth IRA find themselves constrained by the IRS income limits which restrict their ability to contribute to a Roth IRA based on their adjusted gross income (AGI). For tax year 2017, single individuals who have AGI of more than $118,000 will have their ability to make Roth contributions phased out until they are completely disallowed with an AGI of $133,000 or higher. Married couples who file jointly are restricted based on an AGI range of $186,000 - $196,000. Are these higher income investors out of luck when it comes to the Roth IRA? The answer: no, not necessarily.

Based on the IRS rules, which allow for conversions of Traditional IRAs into Roth IRAs, higher income investors still have the ability to contribute to a Roth IRA through a tactic call the “Backdoor Roth IRA.” The Backdoor Roth allows investors to make a nondeductible contribution into their Traditional IRA (non-deductible IRA contributions have no income restrictions), and then convert this amount into a Roth IRA. The IRS does not currently have an income limit restricting the conversion of traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs. Therefore, regardless of how much income an individual or married couple have, they still have the ability to place money into a Roth IRA account, albeit with a few more steps. There are, however, several important caveats to be aware of.

This method works best when you do not currently have any assets in a traditional IRA or IRA Rollover account. When this is the case, non-deductible IRA contributions are made to a traditional IRA and then immediately converted to a Roth IRA. This will constitute a tax free conversion. This makes sense; you don’t take a tax deduction for your contribution into an IRA, therefore you don’t owe tax on that amount when you convert. You can still do a “Backdoor Roth IRA” if you have balances in a Qualified Retirement Plan like a 401(k), Profit Sharing Plan or 403(b) Plan. The rules get

more complicated and the strategy less beneficial if you currently carry a balance in a traditional IRA or IRA rollover account. For the purposes of this article, we will limit the discussion to only investors who have no other Traditional or Rollover IRA assets, as the discussion for what happens when you have other IRA assets is too lengthy for an article.

For 2017, the contribution limit to a Traditional or Roth IRA is $5,500 for individuals under age 50, and $6,500 for individuals 50 and older. This is the maximum amount that may be contributed in any given tax year per individual. However there is no maximum amount that can be converted to a Roth at any given time. This is an important distinction between contributions and conversions.

Investors who are looking to shift more funds into a Roth IRA can simply convert the assets they currently hold in their Traditional IRA accounts. This will generate taxable income on any before-tax amounts or appreciation that is converted, but will not be subject to the 10% penalty for early IRA withdrawals. If an investor is willing to pay the taxes, they can shift money into the Roth IRA well in excess of the annual contribution limit.

Overall, a Backdoor Roth IRA contribution can be a great way for higher income earners to contribute to a Roth IRA where they otherwise would be ineligible based on their adjusted gross income. The decision to convert other IRA assets that will result in additional taxable income is a personal one. It will depend on your age, the amount of the conversion, and most importantly, your marginal tax bracket. All investors who are considering a Roth IRA conversion should consult with their advisors as well as their CPA’s to determine if a conversion is in their best interest. n Tom Reynolds, CPA & Matt Reynolds CPA, CFP® Co-Managing Partners, CRA Financial Francis C. Thomas CPA, PFS, Investment Advisor 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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Wake up in Paradise!

Live Life to the Fullest in Lakewood Ranch, Florida Totally upgraded Del Webb masterpiece! This 3 Bed, 2 Bath + den “Summerwood” model offers a BOLD stainless steel Kitchen Aid appliance package, exquisite solid maple cabinets, an enormous island, closet pantry, and a hooded exhaust fan. The master suite easily accommodates a king sized bed, and features a tray ceiling, spacious roman shower, double vanity and a custom walk-in closet. The pool area is accessible through the vanishing corner, pocket sliders which truly bring the outdoors inside. More of the numerous design/ decorator selections include, American walnut stacked wood wall, interlocking pattern tile floors, paver brick driveway and pool decking, barrel tile roof, MIELE front load washer/ dryer, crown molding, easy touch pool/spa system, and VITEX home security. All of this, and plumbing for a summer kitchen, extra tropical landscaping, on an amazing waterfront lot. The 28,000 sq. ft. luxury resort amenity center will be happening in the Fall of 2017.

This is the premiere 55+ maintenance-free community in the area... nothing else comes close. Come and see your Dream Home today! $475,000

Find out more about this home: Gene Sherry, Realtor Keller Williams Office: 941.556.0500 • Cell: 941.232.4464 Web: www.kw.com/kw/agent/eugene.sherry Email: eugene@kw.com

Lifelines Michelle's first radio job as News Director and Morning Show sidekick

Michelle was 2nd runner up to Miss New Jersey competing as Miss Atlantic County

Cake cutting with Dean, Michelle's high school crush, and now husband of 5 years on October 20th!

Off-Roading

HOW DETOURS CAN SHAPE YOUR DESTINY

BY MICHELLE DAWN MOONEY By the time you read this, chances are one or more things on your schedule didn't exactly go according to plan. If you're like me, you may encounter a few detours on the old agenda before lunchtime. Whether it's tackling your daily to-do list or looking at the big picture of goals and dreams, life is full of surprises that can easily sideline us from where we need/want to go. I have yet to meet a person who can honestly say everything in their life has followed the exact route they intended to take, and that's not necessarily a bad thing.

For most of us, the idea of setting goals is something we began to dabble with in school. Wanting to ace a test, make the team, secure a spot on the honor roll, or get the courage to talk to the cute boy/girl in homeroom were just a few options that may have topped the list. Yes, some of my goals were loftier than others, but talking to your crush is a pretty big deal when you're 15.

Things didn't exactly work out with the boy, but at least I had everything else figured out.

Despite having to change high schools in my junior year, I was on track to becoming who I was meant to be ... a chiropractor. As fate would have it, a funny thing happened on my way to a degree.

As a pre-med college freshman, I followed my mother's advice to reply to a job ad posted by a local radio station.

Having never taken a communications course, it was a fluke that I was offered an on-air job the same day they asked me to audition. I knew I was blessed to have the opportunity, but I never could have imagined how it would completely change my life. A few years later, and a few more radio morning shows under my belt, I officially changed my major to communications. The rest is history.

In the meantime, I had already started competing in the Miss America system to help pay for college. Six years of blood, sweat and a few tears were poured into efforts to win the Miss New Jersey crown, which just happened to come with a full scholarship to the chiropractic school I hoped to attend. I came close, but winning top prize was simply not meant to be. Still, I wouldn't trade the beautiful friendships I made and the amazing overall experience for the world. My mother jokes that if I won Miss New Jersey I probably would have been a chiropractor, but that wasn’t the path God wanted me to take.

Fast forward a few years and I can see

more clearly how lost opportunities, lost loves, and near misses have helped shape the person I am today and the life I live in.

Even the most trivial setbacks seem to have a place in the big and small picture. Is it by chance that spilled coffee can set you back 10 minutes to get to the grocery store where you bump into an old friend who was just leaving? Not in my opinion. Would it have made a difference if I wasn't forced to finish my high school career at a new school? The answer there would be an emphatic yes, since I never would have met and (years later) married that boy I had a crush on.

Would I have become a chiropractor if I won Miss NJ? Well, if I did, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be writing this article that you're reading right now.

More and more I'm learning to embrace those crazy mishaps, the proverbial closed doors, and even the slight sidelining tasks that tear me away from my schedule.

Agendas can be great and lists can be lifesavers, but sometimes we have to be open to a little wiggle room. So, the next time you find something or someone forces you off track, remember it could be the best route to get you where you never knew you were meant to be. n njlifestyleonline.com

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Lifestyle Opinion

Entering Bizarro World STOCKTON UNIVERSITY EXPELS ITS OWN NAMESAKE AND ONE OF AMERICA'S FOUNDERS

By Harry Hurley Op-Ed Contributor

IT REALLY IS BIZARRO WORLD, AFTER ALL. Identity politics and political correctness has literally run a muck in our great nation. And, just when you didn't think it could get any more bizarre, Stockton University President Harvey Kesselman literally expelled the bust of Richard Stockton from public view.

This took place during the race to purge all Confederate monuments and statues. This has now turned into a race to cleanse America of her entire founding. If every slave owner in American history is purged, the list starts with George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and it goes on and on and on.

For the usual impeccable Kesselman, this was a shockingly horrific decision; he hasn't quite figured out how to extricate himself from the mess he's made. His decision has been universally unpopular. Even the Stockton University Board of Trustees, (whom he did not consult) know how bad this is. Sadly, they have failed to do their job and have remained eerily silent on the matter.

Kesselman unilaterally decided that since Richard Stockton once owned slaves, that his bust should be removed from the school library. A very odd decision in that former Stockton President Vera King Farris led the name change charge from Stockton State College to The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. Somehow, the school's only African-American President had no problem with Richard Stockton, and, in fact argued strenuously that the American Founder's full name was vitally important for the school to identify with.

In 2017, it was the Caucasian President who cried racism and took the school's namesake likeness out of public view. It's outrageous at so many levels. After doing this, how do you keep the name of the school? Does hiding the namesake's bust in a closet somewhere make it all just go away?

Also, we must assign context to this manufactured controversy.

You can't hold 1774 values in the same breath as 2017. The times were different. No doubt, slavery is an unacceptable practice in any era. Yet, it was commonplace during the times of the formation of The United States of America.

It appears as though 41 of the 56 signers of The Declaration of Independence were slave owners. Among them, Richard Stockton; although many have challenged whether he was a slave owner at all.

I combed through the national archives. There is a document which appears to prove that he freed one slave and other records that he may have owned as many as three slaves during his lifetime.

However, I'm still in search of the first person who is offended about the name of Stockton University because Richard Stockton may have owned slaves 241 years ago.

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To be fair, let's put Richard Stockton into context. If one positive can come out of this completely unnecessary controversy, New Jerseyans can learn about Stockton.

Yes, most of America's Founders were slave owners. But, they also each risked their lives, their wealth; everything to create the greatest country in the history of the world. The radical fringe elements are racing to rewrite our entire history for purely ideological reasons.

It's especially tragic to see academia purposefully meddling with our history. They have been rewriting our textbooks for years. At the rate things are going, we won't be able to recognize our own country in the not-too-distant future.

The liberals in our country have become radical socialist Democrats. They have made it their mission to apologize for America. Please don't forget that in August, 2017, the ESPN network actually removed a man named Robert Lee (of Asian-American decent) from his broadcasting assignment because they were afraid that someone would be offended that his name sounded too much like Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Yes, this really happened and they actually thought it was normal behavior to do this.

Other states are draping large covers over statues of General Lee, Stonewall Jackson and others. Maryland and other states are quietly wheeling the statues away at 3:30 AM, when most everyone is fast asleep. The cleansing is taking place at warp speed.

Here is some context for you to consider: Richard Stockton was the first person from New Jersey to sign the Declaration of Independence. He was a lawyer, jurist, and legislator. He served the College, which would later become Princeton University for 26 years.

He gave up his law practice to embark upon a highly-decorated tour of England, Scotland, and Ireland. His fame afforded him the opportunity to be received by the most high-ranking men of their Kingdom.

In 1768, Stockton was appointed to the New Jersey Provincial Council and six years later became a Justice on the New Jersey Supreme Court. He tried to thread the needle back in 1774, when he developed a plan that would have provided for America's own self-governance, without renouncing the Crown. It was considered a moderate approach, but it was unacceptable to King George.

In 1776, Stockton was elected to the Second Continental Congress. He was a very active participant. When elections were held for the new state governments of our brand new nation, Stockton came within one vote of being New Jersey's first Governor. He finished tied with William Livingston and later lost by one vote.

Stockton was unanimously elected Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court. He turned it down and remained in Congress.

Stockton next took an exhausting two-month trip to Fort Ticonderoga, Saratoga, and Albany, New York to materially assist the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Upon his return home, he helped a friend evacuate his home and take his family to safety away from the British Army. He was captured in the middle of the night on November 30, 1776. He was dragged from his bed, had his home taken from him, and turned over to the British. Stockton could have taken a full, free and absolute pardon that was offered if he were willing to remain in "peaceable obedience to the King." Stockton refused. He was put into irons and brutally treated as a criminal.

Stockton was moved to Provost Prison, where he was intentionally starved and brutally tortured and subjected to freezing cold weather conditions. Not lost on me is the fact that a former Stockton University Provost (Kesselman) has now subjected Stockton to additional brutal treatment in death, hundreds of years later.

His beloved estate was being enjoyed by General Charles Cornwallis during Stockton's imprisonment. All of his belongings and live stock was either taken or destroyed by the British. His library, which had long been considered one of the finest in the colonies, was burned. Now, Kesselman has burned Richard Stockton all over, again by taking his bust from his second Library 241 years later. This Kesselman circus-stunt of 2017 is just dripping in tragic irony.

The British nearly killed Stockton. It took him two years to recover and he ultimately died at 51 years old. Directly because of Stockton's treatment at the hands of the British, the Continental Congress passed a resolution directing General George Washington to investigate the matter and Stockton was paroled on January 13, 1777. The National Archives contains fascinating additional evidence that space does not permit me to share.

Yes, Richard Stockton may have been a slave owner. But, now you know the rest of his story. It's time to put his bust back in place.

Dr. Kesselman should also apologize to all nine million-plus New Jerseysans for this radical stunt that was dripping with identity politics and political correctness. n Harry Hurley is the president of Harry Hurley Consulting and Communications, LLC. He hosts the daily talk radio program "Hurley in the Morning" 6-10 AM weekdays on Townsquare Media, WPG Talk Radio 104.1 FM and 1450 AM, where he also serves as the senior programming consultant, www. harryhurley.com. njlifestyleonline.com

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The Social Scene

Schultz-Hill Foundation’s Macchio Concert Raises over $75,000 for the Arts With a little bit of Broadway, a touch of opera, and classical Italian standards, the talented Christopher Macchio entertained a crowd of over 600 at Resorts Casino Hotel in July. The event raised more than $75,000 for the Schultz-Hill Foundation, whose mission is to provide music and arts education programs for students and seniors in Atlantic City.

Combining his powerful golden-era sound with an emotive stage presence, Macchio delivered an unforgettable performance. He was joined by special guest singer, Jackie DiMaggio, and a 12-piece orchestra. Guests had an opportunity to meet Macchio and DiMaggio at a post-show champagne/dessert party.

From left to right, event sponsors John and Audrey Heist, Gary Hill, Tom and Mila McDonough, and Cheryl and Jim Cox

Diamond Sponsors Porzio, Bromberg & Newman Co.

Photos by Nicholas & Partners

Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian with Gold Sponsors, The Forza Insurance Group

Resorts President Mark and Susan Gianantonio with their family Acclaimed NY Tenor Christopher Macchio

Left to right, Dianna Gurwicz, Amy Campbell, Inez Barberio, and Brett and Diamond Sponsors ALPHA Funding Shannon Balsley 42

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The Social Scene

UNICO Persons of the Year and Scholarship Banquet a Success The Greater Atlantic City Region Chapter UNICO held its annual Persons of the Year and Scholarship Banquet on July 14 at Resorts Casino and Hotel in Atlantic City. Over 100 attendees honored eight high school scholars, along with local artist and musician Mike Pedicino for Lifetime Achievement, and retired President of Atlantic Cape Community College Dr. Peter Mora for Person of the Year.

The chapter has awarded over $700,000 in scholarships since its inception 37 years ago. Over that time, the chapter has also honored many outstanding individuals as Persons of the Year, including entertainer Nelson Sardelli, Congressman Frank LoBiondo, Senator Donald DiFrancesco, and Bishop Nicholas DiMarzo. The chapter raises funds through a variety of activities, including Golf and Bocce Tournaments, Pasta Dinners, Charity Walks, and Wine Tastings.

UNICO Person of the Year honoree Dr. Peter Mora receives his award from Peter Giordano and Richard Mairone

Left to right, Annette and Jim Giaquinto, Father Jon Thomas, and Carmine and JoAnn Bonanni

UNICO President Peter Giordano presents award to Dr. Michael Pedicino

Chapter Officers Nick Russo, Tom Letizia and Carmine Bonanni flank student scholarship awardees John Mairone, Jared Manganelli, Zoey Zameito, Eric Pushman, Emily Olive, Carly Lawson, Alexis Lawson and Julianna Bongiovanni

AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center says “Farewell” to Sister Mary Frances Kyle AtlantiCare providers, staff and leaders held the last of several farewell parties and private thank-you meetings in August for Sister Mary Frances Kyle, SSJ at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center’s (ARMC) Mainland (Pomona) and Atlantic City campuses. Her final farewell party took place as she marks her last day with AtlantiCare, where she’s cared for patients, families, visitors, staff, and providers for the last 17 years. The venue — the ARMC Atlantic City Campus 6th floor atrium — fittingly overlooks

Atlantic City, where in addition to Pomona and the region, she has made a healing difference for patients from around the world, and the staff and providers who care for them. ARMC Atlantic City Campus is based in an international tourist destination.

Grateful for her 17 years at AtlantiCare, Sister moves on to Camden to work in a neighborhood Welcome Center, sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania.

AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center Mainland Campus team says farewell to Sister Mary Frances Kyle

Sister Mary Frances takes the cake when it comes to caring for patients and staff at AtlantiCare njlifestyleonline.com

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The Social Scene

The 2018 Miss America Contestants Invade Historic Country Club In September, Linwood Country Club hosted the 2018 Miss America Contestants. The ladies got lessons with Pro Jeff LeFevre and his team on the driving range, putting green, and chipping area. Celebrating 95 years of tradition, Linwood Country Club is one of South Jersey’s oldest and most-respected private golf clubs and offers stunning views of the

Atlantic City skyline. After the ladies enjoyed the golf course, they met and mingled with club members and were treated to a coast-to-coast barbecue featuring regionally inspired dishes like Southern Peach BBQ chicken, Pacific Coast Salmon, and of course, some Jersey Fresh favorites.

Miss NJ (Kaitlyn Schoefel), Miss NH (Lauren Percy), Miss Linwood CC Board Pres. Rob Salad assists Miss NV (Andrea Martinez) and Miss MI (Heather Kendrick) Massachusetts (Jillian Zucco) at the driving range

Miss Delaware (Chelsea Bruce) and Miss Texas (Margana Wood) preparing to take golf lessons

Photos by Nicholas & Partners

52 contestants pose in front of the L.C.C. landscaping

Miss Ohio (Sarah Clapper) and Miss District of Columbia Miss NV (Andrea Martinez), Miss IA (Chelsea (Briana Kinsey) preparing to take golf lessons Dubczak) and Miss CA (Jillian Smith)

Seashore Gardens Foundation Gala Raises Over $55,000 for Seashore Gardens Living Center Seashore Gardens Foundation hosted a gala celebration on August 10 that netted more than $55,000 for the programs and services at the nonprofit home, Seashore Gardens Living Center. With the theme,

“Making Dreams Come True,” the Seashore Gardens Foundation Gala highlighted the programs that enrich elder lives, from music to art to intergenerational programming, and more.

Left to right, Jason S. Goldstein, Brian K. Jackson The committee of volunteers and staff members who and Martin Klein made the 2017 Gala possible 44

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SGLC's Summer Sizzlers from left to right, Gabrielle LaBoy, Kyiana Davis and Mariela DeLaurentis

The Social Scene

A Beautiful Clambake

Photos by John Staples, JBMS1 PHOTOGRAPHY

The Greater Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce Summer Clambake was held on August 30 on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. Local businesses and individual sponsors welcomed Miss America 2017 Savvy Shields and the Miss America 2018 Contestants to Atlantic City as they begin two weeks of preliminary competitions and rehearsals before crowning. Local servicemen escorted the contestants to their tables where they enjoyed a wonderful dinner catered by Harry’s Oyster Bar and dancing with music provided by Ralph D’Amelio Entertainment.

L to R, Brian Sartorio, Megan Kinghorn, Paul Boyer, Miss NC (Victoria Huggins), Dana Keane, Matt Dursi, Barbara Hizer and Tracy Sorrentino

From left to right, Miss Arizona (MaddieRose Holler), Edwina Hansen, Dave Goddard, Miss California (Jillian Smith), and Linda Goddard

From left to right, Dr. Bhavin Patel, Seaview Dental Arts Title Sponsor, Aryan Patel and Miss America 2017 Savvy Shields

L to R, Gretchen Maxwell, Kerri Miano, Monica Servellon, Jennifer Stubley, Miss TX (Margana Wood), Lizette Garcia, Patti Bubnis and Jill Zedalis

From left to right, Charlie Wimberg, Lee Wasman and Joe Kelly

L to R, Michael Cenci; Miss Kentucky (Molly Matney); Richelle Cenci; Jim Wood, President & CEO, Meet AC; Miss Idaho (Taylor Lance); and Lisa Wood

L to R, Miss Vermont (Erin Connor), Julianne Dods, Lt. Jeffrey Haller, Miss Illinois (Abby Foster) and HT2 Joseph Sarge

L to R, Carrie Wiesel, Brenda Taube, Raychel Renna, Miss CO (Meredith Winnefeld), Ken Wolfe, Melissa Young, Ellie Taube, Sydney Young, Samantha Young and Brennan Foxman

From left to right, Brian Broadley, Janice Johnston, Miss South Carolina (Suzi Roberts) and John Spurlock

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The Social Scene

HEROtini Mocktail Challenge Names Winner The HEROtini Mocktail Challenge awards were held in September at Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club in Galloway to benefit the John R. Elliot Hero Campaign for Designated Drivers. More than thirty taverns and restaurants in Atlantic and Cape May counties participated in this competition throughout the summer, all vying to be named the best HEROtini. The zero-proof drinks

Photos by Nicholas & Partners and Whitney Ullman

were narrowed down to the top 10 finalists. The top prize for Best Mocktail Drink went to the No-Jito, created by Tomatoes in Margate. Other top winners included “Plum Crazy” (Olon Restaurant), “Climate Changer” (Doc’s Place), “The Coagulated Mary” (Ducktown Tavern), The Windjammer for Best Establishment and Sofia Restaurant for the People's Choice Award.

Lauren Genova of Tomatoe’s shares her victory trophy with sponsors Dr. Ho Chang and Carl Tripician

From left to right, Bill Elliott, Jennifer Adamchak, Muriel Elliott and Mike Adamchak

From left to right, Matt Reynolds, Julie Continisio, Donna Buzby and Bob Reynolds

Bartender Dennis Smith from Bar One and Pam Tyson

Judges from left, Robin Soloff, Taylor Amerman, Michael Brennan, Pamela Dollak, Nicole Gaffney and Nancy Adler 46

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Lauren Genova (l.) (Tomatoe’s) and Kathy Ryan, (Windjammer)

John Exadaktilos and his team from Ducktown Tavern share their Talk of the Town award

From left to right, Paul D'Amato, Steve Van Natten, Sandi D'Amato, Angela Diamantis (Sofia Restaurant) and Alexa D'Amato. D'Amato Law Firm was a sponsor.

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RESTAURANT REPORT

By Alyson Boxman Levine

Best Kept Secret THERE IS MORE TO PHILLIPS SEAFOOD’S ATLANTIC CITY LOCATION THAN MEETS THE EYE … MUCH MORE

Transformed dining room

SURE, EVERYONE KNOWS PHILLIPS SEAFOOD — THE ICONIC seafood restaurant located on the grand third level of Atlantic City’s Playground Pier at Caesars — for their fresh, mouth-watering seafood … but there is something not all patrons know about this famous establishment. Some even say it’s their best kept secret. They host some of the finest private events in the area, and do it with unsurpassed elegance and professionalism.

Phillips Seafood brings guests classic American seafood; boasting an array of fresh seasonal fish and Phillips' famous Maryland-style crab cakes. In Atlantic City, one of the greatest draws for event planners is the restaurant’s sweeping views of the grand Atlantic Ocean. Your eyes are drawn to the breathtaking scenery offered by the floor-to-ceiling windows, as you enjoy beach views clear down to the tip of Cape May. Beautiful dining rooms, romantic booths, and a fully-stocked bar create the perfect environment to dine on the freshest, finest seafood available while celebrating your special event.

Serving as an ideal backdrop, this one-of-a-kind boardwalk location has hosted countless private events and milestone celebrations; from grand weddings to cozy, intimate dinners for ten revelers. The open dining space and sweeping views of the ocean 48

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make Phillips Atlantic City the perfect venue to accommodate events of any size or occasion.

“Come in for a private tasting,” offers Dan Jackson, General Manager of Phillips Seafood. “Our fresh local seafood and farm-totable produce selections are masterfully presented by our talented chefs, and we would love to have you experience our extensive menu options. From luncheons, cocktail receptions, to business events, our vast dining room can be transformed to host events ranging from 10 – 100 guests.”

“We just hosted a Miss America contestant and 75 of her family members for a celebration dinner,” revealed Jackson, an accomplished hospitality industry professional with over 15 years of experience. “And we received rave reviews from all her attendees.”

Jackson joined the Phillips Seafood team in the Fall of 2016 as the General Manager of Phillips Seafood Atlantic City locations, including Phillips Seafood Shack and Souzai Sushi & Sake. Across his hospitality career, he has managed full-service as well as selectservice properties in almost every sector of the business.

The restaurant’s private event menus are oh-so extensive and customizable. Their four-course Clam Bake option features: Whole

Phillips Seafood Restaurant in Atlantic City, NJ

Jumbo Lump Crab Cocktail

Assorted fruit and vegetables

R E STAU R A N T R E P O R T

Maryland-style crab cakes

Crab-Stuffed Flounder

The elegant Dining area 50

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Maine Lobster, King Crab Legs, Shrimp, and Clams and Mussels, served family-style with red bliss potatoes and corn on the cob, along with your choice of soup, salad, and dessert.

Are you looking for a more elegant feel? Try their Cocktail Reception menu, featuring a grand selection of hot and cold appetizers, and a carving station offering Prime Rib, Virginia Ham, and Roasted Tukey Breast.

And, of course a bevy of delectable desserts.

For groups of 15 or more, personalized bar packages are also available.

“We can customize any package for any party,” explains Jackson. “We offer glutenfree and vegan options, and because of our affiliation with neighboring Souzai Sushi & Sake, we can intertwine sushi into the event menus as well.”

The Phillips seafood tradition started a century ago on Hoopers Island, where the A.E. Phillips & Son processing plant sourced wild crabs, fish, and oysters in season from the Chesapeake Bay. In those early days, the fresh seafood traveled by steamship daily to Baltimore, where it was bound for local restaurants and fishmongers.

In 1956, the family created a built-in market for their surplus crabs by opening the first Phillips Seafood Restaurant in the seaside town of Ocean City, Maryland.

Business grew quickly from there, as the family expanded into new locations and launched into new markets.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, now it the time to book your year-end celebrations. From large holiday parties to intimate book club gatherings, Phillips Seafood in Atlantic City has the ambiance and the expertise you seek to ensure your event is truly memorable.

From the very beginning, the company has focused on bringing the culinary traditions and welcoming hospitality of Maryland’s Eastern Shore to every guest. Over the past 100 years, the success of Phillips Seafood has been greatly due to adhering to three simple principles: serve classic seafood favorites, provide outstanding service, and create a memorable dining experience. And the mouth-watering private menu options are sure to please everyone at your next event. But remember not to tell too many people … sometimes the best kept secrets are the most delicious. n

Lifestyle Cooking With Chef Will Savarese

A Blink of an Eye When did the fleeting heat of summer transform into the autumn breeze? epending how you look at things in this crazy life we live; is it half D full or is it half empty? Are you sad to see the Summer fading away or happy that Autumn is upon us? I, for one, have mixed emotions.

I really thought this was going to be the Summer of all Summers.

Maybe my expectations were too high. With all of the daily routines of life and what life throws at us, even some of my closest friends can't believe all that occurs in my life.

As many of you may know, it’s now my turn to commute, something my wife has done for years. Ever since Atlantic City’s Taj Mahal closed last year, I commute from Brigantine to New York, sometimes several days a week. I believe this is one reason my summer has escaped me.

I’m working back in New York City as I await to hear the fate of Robert's Atlantic City at the new Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.

Hopefully, an agreement can and will be worked out. Only time will tell what's in store, but one thing is certain. Before long, it will be another blink of the eye and we will be entering another chapter of our lives and another season.

I'm sure I'm not the only one asking, where did the summer go?

Is it a short season, or is it that our lives have gotten much busier and the time just escapes us. As we go forward, it will also be bringing us into another season; a season of crisp mornings and nights; a season of beautiful color, ranging from the leaves to the sunsets.

This is the season of hearty foods. I relish the kitchen aromas of sauce on the stove or an apple crisp in the oven. I just love a roast on a Sunday; whether it’s beef, pork, or even a roast chicken. I find all the accompanying vegetables to be the star of the show. I love using root vegetables, as well as onions and garlic. Take the root vegetable, like parsnip, rutabaga (I just introduced this vegetable to a friend this past year) and celery root. These are great vegetables to roast and get

sweeter over time while waiting for the roast to cook. Not only do they taste great, but they bring great color to the side dish.

With Fall in the air, that can only mean one thing, the Holiday Season will be here before you know it. What a better way to get ready for the season ahead then by doing some baking. Make a few things ahead of time and keep in the freezer just in case you have someone pop over unexpectedly. Successful entertaining all comes down to planning.

This is also about the time of year my Dad, with the help of my Mom, would make his famous ravioli. My parents made a great team in making his homemade raviolis. The Fall weather would be ideal since the kitchen never really gets that hot. With the windows open, you get a great breeze. Dad making his raviolis was something to really watch and admire … something I haven't tried to duplicate.

Maybe the memories are better in my head. This way, I can imagine the taste of them; the light and airy pillows of the ravioli. We would start many holiday meals with an appetizer of Dad's raviolis.

Dad has been gone six months this September. Maybe I should try and tackle the fear of making his raviolis for the holidays. I'll wait for that ideal Fall day, with the same breeze to keep the kitchen cool. I'll even ask Mom for her assistance so we can try to duplicate the delicious food to go along with the great memories. It will be a nice tribute to Dad, when we sit at the table eating “his” raviolis and toasting him with some beautiful red wine from my cellar.

Cheers to Fall. If you look hard enough, you will be able to find some good out of all life throws at us. Stay strong, live, love and enjoy your life. Nothing is guaranteed to any one of us. As F. Scott Fitzgerald said; “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the Fall.” n Follow Chef Will at CHEFWSAVARESE on Instagram.

Roasted Fall Root Vegetables 1 onion, sliced not too thin Handful of garlic, peeled 2-3 peeled carrots, chopped 1-2 rutabaga, peeled and diced 1-2 celery root, peeled and diced 2-3 turnips, peeled and diced (Amounts depend on how many people you’re serving; there are no set numbers.)

Try to cut all the vegetables the same size. Toss all in bowl with EVOO, salt, and pepper. Then roast in the oven at 350 degrees for one hour or until tender. njlifestyleonline.com

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"Conkering" Fall Wines Y

ou know my biggest gripe with Autumn? The season shrinks every year … if only my waistline did! When I first arrived in New Jersey, circa 1977, I remember Autumn lasting well into Winter, and often beyond. Not anymore. These day, Winter begins far too soon, well before the calendar says it is due to arrive. For me, there is nothing as beautiful as the sound of crisp golden leaves crunching underfoot and the occasional horse chestnut lying below a beautiful old tree shimmering in its autumnal clothes.

When I was a wee lad in England, we used to find the most intact horse chestnut tree seed, which we called a “conker”, then soak them in vinegar to harden them (malt vinegar, of course, which we had on hand in the larder to drizzle on our fish and chips).

Then, somehow, we would pierce a hole through the heart of the conker into which we would thread a piece of string with a large enough knot at the end to prevent the conker from falling off. And then we went to battle, challenging other conker-owning lads in short trousers and unkempt hair and food stains on their faces and their ties, to a conker match.

We would take turns striking our opponents dangling conker (this sounds rude, so I apologize for the visions that might be developing in your heads) with a fierce thrust of our own mighty conker, with the intention of smashing the opponent’s conker to smithereens. The winner of this rather lame and extraordinarily English schoolboy pastime was to see how many conkers your own could obliterate. It was then numbered accordingly. So, if you smashed, say, six enemy conkers, you would strut around the playground at school boasting that “I have a sixer” meaning you had demolished six opponents conkers. And so dear reader, that is one of the many happy memories I have of Autumn … and you have just had a wonderful lesson in the art of conkering.

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That’s why Britain was so passionate about “conkering” so many nations and storing them in the belly of its expanding empire. Just remember William “The Conkerer” from your history books. I never conkered successfully, and in my shame, turned from the horse chestnut to the grape, which brings me rather cleverly to this month’s column about wines for Fall. They are in no particular order of merit, simply the order in which I sampled their amazing flavors.

And talking about this month’s wine column, let’s begin with whisky! Yes, ‘tis the season for all genres of stomach-warming libations, and a couple of whiskies found their way into my tasting glass (remember whisky is only whiskey if it’s made in the U.S. or Ireland).

NOMAD Outland Whisky (Jerez, Spain), approx. $44, is one of the most innovative whiskies currently on the market. The majority of malt whiskies are finished in sherry casks that have been sent to Scotland from Jerez. NOMAD is the first whisky in the world to be finished in the González Byass cellars in Jerez (full name of the town: Jerez de la Frontera), following a prior ageing in Scotland, breaking the unwritten rules of whisky.

This is a premium blended whisky produced from 30 different malt and grain whiskies from Speyside (The Highlands, Scotland), each five to eight years old. The resulting blend is then refined through a minimum of 12 months ageing in old Pedro Ximenez casks, in the unique conditions of the historic centenary cellar of González Byass in Jerez. Bright amber in color, NOMAD shows a concentrated aroma with notes of malt, wood, and the unmistakable hint of Pedro Ximenez sherry. The flavor is very smooth and elegant, with the taste of raisins and honey, which build to a long and pleasant finish with notes of vanilla and dried fruits; a very elegant yet complex whisky.

The Lost Distillery Company BENACHIE (Scotland), approx. $43, is sold in the UK as “Jericho”. In the last century, nearly half of Scotch whisky distilleries were forced to close due to economic pressure, prohibition, and competing corporate globalization.

Established in 2012, The Lost Distillery Company is a boutique Scotch producer dedicated to creating handcrafted whiskies inspired by, and based on, malt whiskies from long-forgotten distilleries. The distillery marries five to 10 single malt whiskies from different distilleries throughout Scotland. It does not chill filter – just like the old days.

To craft a modern interpretation of the closed distilleries’ long-lost whiskies, 10 components are analyzed: era, locality, water, barley, yeast, peat, mash tun, wash back, still, and wood. And Benachie is one such long-forgotten distillery.

Founded by William Smith in 1822, it was hidden in a valley near the town of Insch, surrounded by areas farmed for barley, and hills with copious amounts of peat. Sadly, Benachie closed in 1913 due to isolation.

Lost Distillery’s reinterpretation of this whisky begins with a distinct bouquet of prunes and raisins, followed by licorice, orange peel, and marzipan. The flavor is full-bodied and warming with hints of prunes, raspberries, and spice. As the whisky kisses the tongue, hints of ground coffee and balsamic vinegar remain. The finish is warming and dry with a lingering note of wood spice.

And now for something completely different. Let’s move along to the wines, and pretend this is really a wine column.

Le Marche is a region still largely undiscovered by U.S. consumers, located in Central Italy, with Tuscany to the west, Umbria to the southwest, Abruzzo and Lazio to the south, and the Adriatic Sea to the east. The average estate is only 1.25 ha (approx. three acres), meaning that most wineries really focus on domestic production and distribution. It’s not a region flooded

Lifestyle Wine

Embrace the season with wondrous elixirs to please your Autumnal palate.

By Phillip Silverstone with commercial tourism like Tuscany, Umbria, or Abruzzo… but that’s what makes le Marche such a great discovery.

And especially wineries like Ciù Ciù, who have survived in the region and maintained a sense of tradition, with a powerful “back to the roots” ethic for younger wine growers.

Ciù Ciù wines are unique, offering a perfect balance between quality, tradition, and price.

The winery has a range of certified organic and vegan wines, and here are two which I found totally brilliant.

Ciù Ciù Lacrima di Morro d'Alba D.O.P (le Marche, Italy), approx. $16 The Lacrima grapes give this wine a purple red coloring with violet shades and a beautiful dark berry scent and a long lasting, very beautiful, mixed berry flavor.

The stainless steel aging allows the grape’s natural fresh, clean flavors to show through.

Ciù Ciù GOTICO Rosso Piceno Superiore D.O.P (le Marche, Italy), approx. $22 This deep ruby red wine also has shades of purple. It is produced from a blend of 70% Montepulciano grapes and 30% Sangiovese grapes in the Ascoli Piceno province and aged for 12 months in oak barrels and a further six months aged in bottles. The scent is fruity with a floral perfume, and its taste is smooth and full-bodied.

Regular readers of this award-worthy column will know I have an enormous predilection for Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards, located in California’s Sonoma wine region. And it will come as no surprise that I welcomed the release of their latest sparklers with open wine glasses.

Gloria Ferrer Anniversary Cuvée, Sonoma, CA, approx. $40, is made from Sonoma County Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.

This particular sparkling wine is assembled from 14 separately fermented lots of wine from the 2010 vintage. Fermented for six months before blending, the wine was then allowed to mature in bottle for five and a half years before being released! This wine has a perfume of pear and ripe apple, with a touch of honey and vanilla. The flavor combines crème brûlée and stone fruit

layered over black cherry. The lingering taste wraps up with a hint of fresh ginger.

This bottle of bubbly is awesomeness at a reasonable price my friends!

Gloria Ferrer Non-Vintage Brut Rosé, Sonoma, CA, approx. $29, is made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes from Gloria Ferrer’s 340-acre estate in the Carneros region of southern Sonoma County. Since 1990, Gloria Ferrer has been making small quantities of vintage-dated Brut Rosé available only for purchase at the winery. The grapes for Gloria Ferrer Brut Rosé are harvested by hand and collected in small bins. A blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, the wine is aged in bottle for two years to develop its effervescence. The wine has a perfume of bright strawberry and red cherry, which follow through to the flavor, with the addition of notes of crème brûlée, lemon, and green apple. The fruit stays in your mouth long after the last drop is emptied from the glass. “Yummy” sums up this wine succinctly.

Locations Wine, created by winemaker Dave Phinney, produces wines representing some of the best countries, regions, and states from all over the world. That is setting the bar very high indeed, demanding that the entrepreneurial winemaker travels the world, explaining his concept to owners of some of the world’s finest vineyards, eventually turning skeptics into believers, and securing some of the best fruit to make the Locations wines. The latest release comes from my favorite grape variety, and from my favorite region for that variety, on this planet.

Locations NZ6 (Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand), approx. $19.99, is 100% Sauvignon Blanc, sourced from old vines from vineyards in: The Wairu Valley, known for traditional passion fruit and crisp grassy flavors; The Awatere Valley, known for minerality and elegance due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean; and the southern valley of Waihopai, known for its gravel soils and later, cooler ripening climate, which contributes additional structure and complexity to the final blend. The wine’s color is brilliant pale yellow, reminiscent of white currants and the perfume is gooseberries, and ripe tropical fruits, plus

that always present fresh cut grass. The taste, thanks to fermentation of the juice in stainless steel tanks, is fresh and clean, bursting with fresh herbs and the minerality one always lusts after in such a wine. To quote the familiar mantra of realtors the world over, “you have to always consider …

Location, Location, Location.”

Since I have you totally fascinated and enthralled by the pastime of my youth I opened this column describing to you, I feel it would be remiss of me to leave you at the mercy of a British youngster should you find yourself engaged in a battle of conkers on an Autumnal visit to my homeland. So allow me to share a couple of tips to enlighten you in the art of conkers. Watch your opponent’s strings very carefully. If the strings become entangled, the first player to shout “strings” or “stringsies” wins an extra turn. And, if one player drops their conker, the other can shout “stamps” or “stampsies”, entitling them to try and break the conker on the ground by stamping on it. However, and this is a very important nugget of advice, shouting “no stamps” before the other player can shout “stamps” prevents any stamping at all.

Conquering conkers and discovering wines are an unlikely pair of topics to be found in the same column, but rest assured, if they are to be combined in the same column, it’s a racing certainty the column was created in the strange labyrinth that lives between the ears of this magazine’s notoriously-quirky wine writer. I will let novelist George Eliot close my column: “Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.”

Cheers! n Phillip Silverstone’s column appears in every edition of our magazine. “Time Out With Phillip Silverstone” is a weekly podcast heard exclusively on TuneIn radio anytime worldwide “Follow” the show for weekly updates. You can also LIKE Phillip on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ Phillipsilverstone and follow him on Twitter: @wining. njlifestyleonline.com

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dining gallery

Nobil Food Services

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.

Ventura's Offshore Cafe

2015 Shore Road, Northfield, NJ 609-641-5158 venturascafe.com Ventura's is a family restaurant and sportsman's bar with a cozy hometown atmosphere that makes you want to come back again and again.

From their famous mussels marinara to their award-winning filet mignon, to their simply delicious gourmet pan pizzas, they offer fresh homemade meals to please everyone's palate.

609-822-3604 nobilfoodservices.com A privately owned and operated food service management company and caterer, Nobil Food Services is the regions premier on and off premise caterer. Specializing in exquisite weddings, private parties and corporate functions at your location, or theirs. From start to finish, Nobil will help you plan an event that will make your next special occasion truly memorable.

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.

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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.

Joseph's Restaurant at Renault Winery A Touch of Italy

6629 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp. 609-641-1855 touchofitaly.net A Touch of Italy offers the finest quality of food and service. Each meal served is cooked to order. A friendly and pleasurable atmosphere will make your visit a memorable one. Established in 1981 with more than 31 years of experience, this restaurant, banquet facility, and lounge serves only the finest natural veal, steaks, poultry, pasta, seafood and brick-oven pizza.

72 Bremen Avenue, Egg Harbor City, NJ 609-965-2111 renaultwinery.com Open since 2001, Joseph's Restaurant at Renault Winery has become a local favorite of the Atlantic County area. The continued patronage speaks volumes to the flavors that Chef Joe DeGennaro creates, which combines his unique flair and traditions. The food quality and atmosphere are surpassed by none. The Milza family commits themselves to the highest level of service and customer satisfaction. Whether you choose Italian, seafood, premium steaks or a burger, you are sure to be pleased. Try their diverse flavors and experience their amazing ambiance in a unique setting.

Maplewood The Historic Smithville Inn

The Melting Pot

Crab Trap

1 N. New York Road, Galloway, NJ 609-652-7777 historicsmithvillenj.com The Historic Smithville Inn offers a sophisiticated dining experience combined with the atmosphere of warm hospitality, since 1787. Their scenic view dining areas looking out on Lake Meone, private dining rooms with fireplace and formal banquet and wedding facilities coupled with their attention to detail services will make your dining, banquet or wedding event a night to remember.

Discover the Tradition of the Historic Smithville Inn.

470 White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 6126 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing, NJ 609-561-9621, 609-625-1181 joesmaplewood.com 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.

RESTAURANT WEEK 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 Monday thru Friday, 7 am - 5 pm; Saturday, 8 am - 5 pm and Sunday, 8 am - 2 pm.

HAPPY HOUR Sofia

9314 Amherst Avenue, Margate, NJ 609-822-9111 sofiaofmargate.com Exhibiting classical Greco-Mediterranean design, Sofia invites you to enjoy her dinner table and share in a celebration of a wholesome cuisine built on home-style cooking expressed by exceptional chefs and recipes acquired from past generations. Thus, making Sofia a truly extraordinary South Jersey Greek restaurant.

Tomatoes

Drink Specials & Half-Price Glasses of Wine, Appetizers, Sandwiches & Salads

LUNCH | DINNER | TAVERN HAPPY HOUR | PRIVATE EVENTS

9300 Amherst Avenue, Margate, NJ 609-822-7535 tomatoesmargate.com A favorite of chefs and foodies who are impressed with the location, food, and view of the Margate Bay. The elegant and refined atmosphere includes a bar area, sushi bar, private meeting and dining rooms in addition to the main dining room. Trendy with a high-end, eclectic American fare and sushi, plus a happening bar scene. Excellent fresh fish, wonderful sauces and impressive desserts.

Visit us online for details on the area’s great dining Venues.

Angeloni’s II

NJLifestyLeONLiNe.cOm

2400 Arctic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 609-344-7875 angelonis.com Offering the finest Italian-American cuisine in the Atlantic City area. This family owned and operated business has been preparing the finest ItalianAmerican entrees in the greater NJ area for over 40 years. Angeloni’s II surrounds you in a warm and elegant ambiance fitting the fine dining you will be sure to enjoy.

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Seaview Dolce

401 South New York Road, Galloway, NJ 609-652-1800 stocktonseaview.com When it comes to dining at Seaview, guests savor seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine. In the sophisticated Main Dining Room, enjoy breakfast daily and Sunday brunch in an elegant setting overlooking the historic Bay Golf Course.

Connect with family and friends in the rustic warmth of the historic Coastal Grille Pub, which stands ready with signature craft cocktails, a wide selection of beer and wine, and delicious pub fare served in a comfortable, convivial setting. Or, relax and unwind with signature cocktails in the luxurious Lobby Bar and Lounge. Stockton Seaview in Galloway, NJ, offers casual and fine dining expertly prepared by a world-class culinary team. From award-winning Champagne brunches and romantic dinners for two to post-golf parties or snacks during the big game, there’s something for every taste. From its award winning Champagne Sunday Brunch to casual fare in the historic Grill Room Pub, dining at Seaview is an experience not to be missed! njlifestyleonline.com

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casino dining

TROPICANA (THE QUARTER)

Broadway Burger Bar

The Quarter at Tropicana, Atlantic City, NJ 609-317-4660 broadwayburgerbar.com Ark Restaurants introduces Broadway Burger Bar at the Quarter in Tropicana Casino & Resort, Atlantic City serving up fresh ground, grilled, prime beef burgers and a large selection of tapas-style appetizers. Order from a full bar featuring 60 craft beers, specialty cocktails, adult milkshakes, as well as your traditional favorites.

Live acoustic acts every Friday and Saturday add to the vibrant and unique atmosphere. Fun for families, a quick lunch or an intimate dinner. At Broadway Burger Bar, they make burgers great.

Cuba Libre

The Quarter at Tropicana, Atlantic City, NJ 609-348-6700 cubalibrerestaurant.com Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar is dedicated to a continued exploration of Cuban heritage, art, music, flavors and traditions. The open-air setting, tropical ambiance, vintage décor, upbeat Latin music and Concept Chef/Partner, Guillermo Pernot’s delectable menu of ‘Nuevo Cubano’ dishes and traditional favorites, make this restaurant a must-see, must-experience dining destination.

Olón

Tropicana, Atlantic City, NJ 609-340-4050 olonrestaurant.com Inspired by the beach towns of Ecuador, specifically Olón, and the vibrant flavors of coastal cuisine, Olón is an alluring beach front experience centered around Chef Jose Garces’ vision of fresh seafood. Bar Olòn offers a more casual experience, serving sandwiches, small plates and an extensive beer list.

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RESORTS

PLAYGROUND AT CAESARS

Gallagher’s Steakhouse

Phillips Seafood

Capriccio

Souzai Sushi & Saki

Resorts Casino, 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.

Resorts Casino, 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. The food is as spectacular as the view.

BALLY’S

Playground 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.

Experience an upscale, interactive dining experience with their exhibition kitchen and sweeping ocean views.

Playground at Caesars, Atlantic City, NJ 609-348-4443 souzaisushi.com.com Simple… seasonal… sensual… Souzai features a diverse menu of hand-rolled sushi, fresh sashimi and traditional Japanese dishes, as well as a wide range of innovative cocktails, Japanese sake and beer. Showcasing stunning views of the beach, ocean sunsets and the sparkling cityscape from its perch high above the famed Atlantic City boardwalk, Souzai has become one of the hottest spots in town to mix and mingle. Grab a seat and discover Souzai for yourself.

Guy Fieri’s Chophouse

Bally’s Casino, Atlantic City, NJ 609-340-2350 caesars.com A mash up of flavors and classic styles, Guy’s new restaurant includes a bevy of steak and seafood options — all in a relaxed joint. A unique take on the classic steakhouse, the restaurant features a menu of popular signature dishes with New Jersey flare. You can indulge in Guy’s signature dishes, including a java rubbed ribeye chop, filet with roasted garlic and brown butter, spicy bloody mary jumbo shrimp cocktail, Jersey shore clams casino, and Cape May fried flounder.

Complement your meal with a glass of Californiasourced wine, a robust craft beer or spirits from a small batch distillery.

Buddakan

Playground at Caesars, Atlantic City, NJ 609-674-0100 buddakanac.com Buddakan's dreamlike ambiance makes an enchanting setting for hosting special events.

Guests are instantly transported to an ancient Chinese village complete with rock gardens, thatched roofs and a dramatic twilight sky. The menu portrays an innovative interpretation of Modern Asian cuisine that matches the decor in terms of creativity and inspiration. Guests will feel relaxed and indulged in this exotic and comfortable environment.

HARRAH'S Sammy D's Harrah's Resort, Atlantic City, NJ 609-441-5402 sammyds.com Sammy D’s is an all-you-could-ask-for eatery from culinary sensation Chef Sam DeMarco. At Sammy D’s, a retro restaurant, bar and lounge, Chef DeMarco takes East Coast favorites to the next level with his Philly Cheese Steak Dumplings, Lollipop Wings, SAM-'Whiches and Craft Drafts.

Before hitting the boardwalk, or the jackpot, pull up a chair or grab a stool and relax at Sammy D's in Harrah's Resort.

Award-Winning Seafood

BORGATA

Wolfgang Puck American Grille Borgata Casino 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

Borgata Casino, 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.

PHILLIPSSEAFOOD.COM ATLANTIC CITY

609.348.2273

acebook.com/PhillipsSeafood

@PhillipsSeafood

DINING GALLERY ADVERTISING RATES $95.00 per month

Izakaya

Borgata Casino, 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.

All units in full color.

Rates include all production.

All rates are based on a 12-month period from the date of the first insertion.

NJ LifestyLe MagaziNe CALL 609-703-0787 FOR RESERVATIONS

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A Final Word By Marjorie Preston

Homeboy He was one of the brightest stars of the 20th century, a lightning rod for applause, criticism, adulation, and scorn. When it comes to New Jersey native Jerry Lewis, who died in August at age 91, no one is really neutral.

I

n show biz, they’d call him a triple threat, times two.

Jerry Lewis wasn’t just a movie star. He was a writer, director, comedian, author, philanthropist, and cultural phenomenon. He was also a homeboy, whose eccentric comic stylings could only have been honed in the Garden State. Born in Newark, New Jersey in 1926, Jerry died August 21 in Las Vegas. He was 91.

In dozens of movies over a 50-year career — The Bellboy, The Errand Boy, Cinderfella, The Caddy — Jerry played the ultimate schlemiel, pencil-necked and adenoidal. His characters always had names like Stanley, Seymour, Alvin, and Harvey.

In his early films, that geeky persona was balanced by the suave sophistication of his partner, Dean Martin. Later on, without the hunky crooner as ballast, the “kid” of Jerry’s creation could be just too much, like straight syrup without the soda. It’s one reason people aren’t really neutral about Jerry. Like anchovies, rap music and camping, you either hate or love him — there’s no in-between.

For many years, I wasn’t a fan. I didn’t like the adolescent screech and slapstick; I didn’t enjoy the mock-humble act or Serious Auteur persona, which won Jerry legions of French film fans (as well as the French Legion of Honor).

But one day, that all changed.

It must have been a rainy Sunday; almost certainly, I had nothing to do. So I watched a Jerry Lewis movie. In the 1961 comedy The Ladies Man, he plays Herbert Heebert, a handyman in a women’s boardinghouse who stumbles, bumbles, and mugs his through a barrage of comic set pieces that are so silly, so absurd, you just have to laugh. I know I did.

Some critics have slammed the film as an unenlightened commentary on the ascent of feminism (oy). For me, it was a revelation. As usual, Jerry is the wide-eyed doofus, in desperate search of love and acceptance, who is finally liked for himself: buck teeth, taped-up glasses and all.

The theme — who we are, versus who we long to be — is at the heart of Jerry’s best films. Take The Nutty Professor. Released in 1963, it’s a shrewd take on the Jekyll and Hyde story, with Jerry as two characters: nerdy Professor Julius Kelp, and his alter ego, swingin’ lounge lizard Buddy Love. Kelp is bright, lovable, but insecure.

Buddy is arrogant and boastful, as smooth as Brylcreem.

In one of the best scenes, Jerry-as-Buddy Love swaggers into a local college hangout, the Purple Pit, and orders a cocktail.

Just thinking about it makes me laugh. Many times in bars or

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LIFESTYLE

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restaurants, I’ve ordered the same drink — an Alaskan Polar Bear Heater — just to see the gobsmacked reaction.

At the end, when Buddy reverts to Julius for good, he learns a lesson. “You might as well like yourself,” he says. “Think of all the time you’re going to spend with you.” It’s the quintessential message of a Jerry Lewis film.

Born Joseph Levitch (or Jerome Levitch, take your pick), Jerry was the only child of vaudevillians who spent most of their time on the road. He made his stage debut at 5, singing "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?" at a nightclub in the Catskills’ famous Borscht Belt. As a young up-and-comer, one of his first solo acts was lip syncing to popular songs of the day (in an act billed as "laffsational pantomimicry").

Jerry Lewis He wasn’t exactly a world-beater — until he teamed with Dean in 1946. They started with a largely improvised act at Atlantic City’s 500 Club, which Jerry described as “the handsome guy and the monkey.” Instant gold. Within a year, Martin and Lewis were the biggest entertainers in the business, and enjoyed a level of fame known to very few — think Sinatra, Elvis, and the Beatles.

The team broke up acrimoniously after 10 years, and the men didn’t speak for decades.

But in his 2005 memoir, “Dean and Me: A Love Story,” Lewis heaped all the credit for their fame on his onetime partner.

While I consider myself an unabashed Jerry Lewis fan, I can also cringe at his excesses. The unchecked ego and mawkish sentimentality were most on display at the Muscular Dystrophy Association telethons he hosted. Broadcast on the socalled Love Network, the weepy epics were a Labor Day-weekend staple for decades, but fell out of favor when people with muscular dystrophy balked at being called “Jerry’s Kids.” I think I’d feel as they did. Even so, Jerry helped raise $2.6 billion for medical research and other help for people with the disease. Surely that will earn him a place among the angels.

While it’s hard to parody a parody — and Jerry Lewis was a parody, or became one — check out Martin Short in Jerry Lewis at the Champs Elysees, viewable on YouTube. It’s priceless, spot-on — and while it skewers Jerry, it’s also a loving tribute. I guess Jerry deserves both.

And so for the last time, let’s raise a glass to Jerry Lewis, Jersey boy made good.

Hey, bartender. Make that an Alaskan Polar Bear Heater. n

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