LifeStyle Report SEPTEMBER 2014
We’re all of this and More! FASHION • HOME & DESIGN • ART DINING • GOLF • HEALTH
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“Summer afternoon — summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.” —Henry James
THE • VIEW
The Dog Day of Summer
W
hen you’re struggling through the coldest, snowiest and iciest days of winter, it seems like Memorial Day can’t come fast enough. Then once summer rolls around, Labor Day comes so quickly. We are now embroiled in the middle. In what is commonly called “the dog days of summer.” I always thought they were the days when it’s so hot that dogs just lie around panting. Not so, says Wikipedia. “The Romans referred to the dog days as diés caniculárés and associated the hot weather with the star Sirius. They considered Sirius to be the “Dog Star” because it is the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major (Large Dog). The Dog Days ran from July 24th through August 24th.” The dog days are followed by the “shoulder season,” a euphemism coined by the travel industry when the “off peak” was thought too negative. There’s nothing negative about the shoulder season. It means festivals and apple cider and perfect temperatures. There are plenty of decent beach days left and warm ocean water takes on its “September sparkle.” Watch for it. We can bicycle on the boardwalk with little competition. There is still a plethora of entertainment. Although I adore the summer, fall weekends seem more special. They are a welcomed break as we returned to our scheduled lives. The shoulder season is what we lean on and treasure as we begin the wait for Labor Day.
Darla Hendricks Publisher
how to reach us SUBSCRIPTIONS
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Visiting our website is your connection to South Jersey’s Good Life. WHERE TO FIND US
NJ Lifestyle Magazine is mailed to select households in Atlantic and Cape May Counties, and parts of South Jersey. You can also find us exclusively at local Starbucks locations, select retail locations, golf clubs, restaurants, doctor offices and more. njlifestyleonline.com
LIFESTYLE | September Issue 2014
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CONTENTS FEATURES On Wheels A glimpse inside the 1958 Cadillac Eldorados.
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Architecture
Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia’s $10 million renovation.
D EPA RTME NTS
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Money Watch Keep emotions out of investing.
Person 10 First A sit down with Starbucks Licensee John Betz. Unsung Legend 16 An Revealing the passion of a local surf pioneer. Chefs Atlantic City 28 Top We get personal with four exceptional area chefs. Gallery 34 Dining All of the details on the area’s great dining venues.
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Restaurant Report Brûlée Catering is now producing events of all sizes.
Mercedes-Benz Builds Cars,
We Build Relationships.
COMING SOON! 2015 Mercedes-Benz
GLA
of Atlantic City 7018 Black Horse Pike • West Atlantic City • (609) 645-9000
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Lifestyle Report Publisher
Darla Hendricks darlabh2@gmail.com Creative Director
Darla Hendricks Advertising Director
Barbara Scarduzzio Vice President of Sales
Kristine Kurilko Contributing Writers
Molly Golubcow Bill Henry Alyson Boxman Levine Matt and Tom Reynolds Elaine Rose Robert Sergeant Photogralphers
Nick Valinote Eric Weeks Online Media Info
www.lifestylereport.net Accounting
Michael I. Mann, CPA Zelnick, Mann and Winikur, P.C.
Lifestyle Report is published by New Jersey Lifestyle, LLC. The entire contents of Lifestyle Report are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher. New Jersey Lifestyle, LLC assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. New Jersey Lifestyle, LLC reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse editorial material and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. All correspondence should be sent to:
New Jersey Lifestyle
One North New York Road, Smithville, NJ 08205 Telephone: 609-404-4611 / Fax: 609-404-4613 info@njlifestyleonline.com www.lifestylereport .com
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Lou Marchiano FOR MEN CLOTHING
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LIFESTYLE
MONEYWATCH By Matt and Tom Reynolds
Keep Emotions Out of Investing WE HAVE ALL HEARD THE NUMBER ONE RULE OF INVESTING — BUY LOW, Sell High. Simple in theory, yet counter intuitive to what our emotions dictate. Many times as the markets are soaring to new highs, our emotions tell us to, as Jim Cramer would say, “buy, buy, buy.” March 2009 proved to be one of the best investment opportunities with a nearly 200% gain since; however, our emotions at the market bottom begged us to sell. Keeping our emotions in check — especially fear, greed, and regret — is vitally important for the long-term success of any investment portfolio. According to the recent 2014 release of DALBAR’s Quantitative Analysis of Investor Behavior, over the 10 years ending December 31, 2013, an average investor in a blend of equities and fixed income mutual funds has earned an average annualized return of 2.6% net. This compares to a 7.4% return for the S&P 500 and a 4.6% return for fixed income. This return differential can be largely attributed to investor emotion affecting rational thinking. What can investors do to close this return gap and stop letting emotions sabotage their investment portfolios? One of the best things an investor can do is to formulate and construct a well thought out investment plan. The investment plan should include specific goals of the investment portfolio, risk tolerance, time horizon, liquidity needs, tax and legal constraints, as well as any unique circumstances. By having an investment plan, particularly a written one, investors can refer to it during times of market uncertainty, and be better able to remain focused on their goals and reduce the chance of emotions influencing short term irrational decision making. Documenting changes is a great tool for investors to track their decisions and use their past experiences as a guide to how they are likely to respond to future market moves. Understanding your personal risk tolerance is key to not abandoning your investment plan. Often times investors expect to keep pace with the market in good years, and not lose money in the bad years. This scenario is not realistic and educating oneself on the risk/return tradeoff will help shine a light on the realities of investing. The higher return we expect to earn is correlated with a higher degree of risk. How much are you comfortable losing in a single year? 5%? 15%? 30%? The markets will fluctuate, but over time, investors should be compensated for the level of risk they are willing to bear. Not understanding the downside risk of a particular return strategy will lead to investors bailing at the worst possible time — the bottom of a down market. The S&P 500 has been positive in 26 of the last 34 years; however, the average intra-year decline during that period has been 14.4%. Trying to time the market would have proven to be an impossible task and, most likely, would have led to selling after a
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decline, and buying back in after a recovery. Understanding your level of comfort with market volatility will allow you to create an appropriate asset allocation to buy and hold through the market cycles. One of the easiest solutions to emotional investing is to check your investment portfolio less often. More frequent reviews lead to more worry, and ultimately, to decisions that you may regret down the road. Since 1928, stocks on a daily basis have been positive 53% of the time. Extending out to monthly, quarterly, and annually, the market is positive 62%, 68%, and 72% respectively. Think of it this way — if you check your portfolio every day, there is a 47% chance that you will feel disappointed. If you only check once a quarter, you will only feel disappointed 32% of the time!
Keeping emotions out of investing can be a difficult task. We are all human, investment professionals included, and are thus prone to the euphoria and stress of the markets. Some of the best advice we have heard is to treat a bear market the same as running into an actual bear. If you hike the woods long enough there is a high probability of confronting a bear. Experts agree that panicking and running away lessen your chance of survival, but if you keep your cool and play dead until the threat passes, you can emerge victoriously and continue on your path. n Tom Reynolds, CPA & Matt Reynolds CPA, CFP® Co-Managing Partners - CRA Financial Robert T. Martin, 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.
The Dr. Jan Astin Mobile Digital Mammography Van
LIFE SAVING SCREENING MAMMOGRAMS ACCESSIBLE TO WOMEN IN SOUTHERN AND CENTRAL NEW JERSEY.
This past spring, Atlantic Medical Imaging (AMI) hit the road with the new Dr. Jan Astin Mobile Digital Mammography Van. With funding from the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, RNS Cancer & Heart Fund and the AMI Foundation, the Mobile Digital Mammography Van will offer life saving screening mammograms to women throughout southern and central New Jersey. AMI has been a nationally recognized leader in mammography and breast imaging for many years. Operating the mobile van will enable AMI to extend its outreach efforts further. With scheduled stops throughout Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Monmouth, Ocean and Salem counties, the Mobile Digital Mammography Van will provide screening mammography examinations as well as educating women on the importance of early detection and breast self awareness.
MAKING EARLY DETECTION EASIER
There are many reasons why women might avoid or delay getting a mammogram. The reasons can include everything from lack of insurance, to difficulty taking time away from work or family. The Dr. Jan Astin Digital Mobile Mammography Van is a convenient option that provides women in southeastern New Jersey high quality digital mammography services. The mobile van travels throughout southeastern New Jersey to make mammography more convenient and accessible for women. Thirty minutes is all it takes to participate in this valuable health screening. In addition to featuring state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment, the Dr. Jan Astin Mobile Digital Mammography Van is
fully furnished with a comfortable waiting area and private dressing rooms. Our services meet the high accreditation standards set by the American College of Radiology and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For women without health insurance, we offer financial support through the Foundation’s Mammography Assistance Program. Our goal is to make mammography screening accessible and affordable for every woman in our region who should receive this important diagnostic test. In addition to the mobile digital mammography van, AMI offers screening mammography examinations in its 8 locations throughout Atlantic, Cape May, Monmouth and Ocean counties. For more information, please visit: www.atlanticmedicalimaging.com
TAKE THE NEXT STEP, SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY
Please call (609) 677-XRAY (9729) to find out when the Dr. Jan Astin Mobile Digital Mammography Van will visit your area and to make an appointment. The Dr. Jan Astin Mobile Digital Mammography Van schedule is also available on our website: www.amifoundation.net/mammovan
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FIRST PERSON
A Sit Down with Starbucks Licensee John Betz
John Betz
Investing in the community gives this local business owner unexpected rewards by Elaine Rose Photography by Nick Valinote 10September Issue 2014 | LIFESTYLE
njlifestyleonline.com
Above, left, owners John Betz and Pierce Keating. Top right, Starbucks location in Ocean City, NJ. Bottom right photo, from left to right, Lucian Lupu, General Manager of Tropicana Marketplace; Madeline Rivera, General Manager of Tropicana at The Quarter; owner John Betz; Joan Martin, Regional Manager of South Jersey; Adrian Danciu, General Manager of Ocean City; Milagros Breckley, General Manager of Trump Plaza; not available at time of photo, Caroline Stork, General Manager of Margate.
The Starbucks at the corner of 11th Street andAsbury Avenue in Ocean City is definitely not a carbon copy of the chain’s other stores. The walls are paneled in cedar and covered with historic photos of the beach resort, including one of co-owner John Betz as a 14-month-old visitor. Sofas, ottomans, and a fireplace invite patrons to stay longer than it takes to consume their purchases. When New Jersey Lifestyle arrived on a recent afternoon, Betz was behind the counter, greeting guests with a warm smile. The owner of three Starbucks coffee shops in Atlantic City and one in Margate, Betz, 53, lives in Phoenixville, PA with Anne, his
wife of twenty-two years. They have four children, JB (20), Sean (17), Ryan (15) & Ellie (12). Lifestyle: Where did you grow up? Betz: I grew up in Havertown, PA. I come from seven (children). I had five sisters, four of them are older & one younger brother & sister. We had one bathroom. To this day, I still take my showers at night, because if I wanted to take one in the morning, I’d have to get up at 4 AM in the morning to beat them to it. The toughest time for my family was watching our mom suffer for 9 years with ovarian cancer. My Mom passed away when I was a sophomore in high school. My
daughter Ellie is her name sake. I was born and raised coming to Ocean City in the summer. My dad owned a gas station. He literally worked all the time, and for the summer, he would get us a shore house. He would come down late Saturday night and stay until Monday. When my dad learned I was going to the Ocean City Historical Society (to choose pictures for the store), he said, “You know, when you were fourteen months old, you were on the cover of The Weekly Guide to Ocean City. You should see if they have a copy of that.” And sure enough, they did. Lifestyle: How did you get started in njlifestyleonline.com
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FIRST PERSON business? Betz: I went to Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA. I graduated and went right to work for MCI Telecommunications. I knew I wanted to be in business for myself. I had a dear friend that had a hotdog cart at the West Chester court house in PA, and I would run it for him on occasion while in college. Part of the job was picking up pretzels down in South Philly in morning around 7 AM. That was when they were just coming out of the oven. I usually had two of them as my breakfast on my way out to set up the cart. I heard about this place called Auntie Anne’s in Newark, Delaware that was selling
up. Her knowledge and experience became a critical part of our success. Anne would work open to close Monday through Friday, and I worked Saturdays and Sundays. We didn’t see much of each other. Lifestyle: How did you get into Starbucks? Betz: I sponsored a golf outing for the Make A Wish Foundation in 1997 in cooperation with Trump Marina & Tony Saragusa. Larry Mullen was president of Trump Marina at the time. Each foursome got to play with an NFL football player. The food was better than the golf, as there were oysters on the half shell, shrimp cocktail, and caviar on the golf course. As part of the sponsorship,
our food business, and asked if I’d look into becoming a licensee for Starbucks. We went through the lengthy process of securing the license and opened the first Starbucks on the Atlantic City boardwalk in 2002 at Trump Plaza. We have since sold all our (eleven) Auntie Anne’s and other outlets and are fully focused on Starbucks. About two years ago, Starbucks asked me to work with them on the healthcare industry. Because of the size of the opportunity, I decided to take on a partner. After an extensive search for the right person, one of my dear friends from high school Pierce Keating, proved to the best choice.
“I love everything about Ocean City and have since I was a kid. I knew there was demand for Starbucks and this was definitely an area underserved by the brand.” pretzels right out of the oven. I ended up bringing back a dozen to my office. After that, any time I left, my co-workers said, “Don’t forget the pretzels.” I struck up a relationship with Auntie Anne (Beiler) herself & her family. In 1990, my wife and I became one of their first franchisees and we opened up our first store in the Cherry Hill Mall in 1992. When we started with Auntie Anne’s, it was a new concept and it was very difficult to get a business loan. So I stayed in my corporate job until we opened our fourth store. My wife, Anne, really ran this business and learned it from the ground
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I was allowed to have my pretzels served as well. The pretzels were the biggest hit. At dinner that night, Mullen, who I grew up with, said that Auntie Anne’s would be awesome in a casino environment. So we worked on it, and found a location in the casino in 1998. Donald Trump stayed at the Marina on the weekends and would come down every Saturday night and get a cinnamon-sugar pretzel and a lemonade. I ended up doing an Auntie Anne’s at each of the Trump properties. Trump wanted to do a Starbucks, but because of Casino Control Commission regulations, he couldn’t. They liked how we conducted
Lifestyle: How did you choose Ocean City for your newest Starbucks? Betz: Well, I love everything about Ocean City and have since I was a kid. I knew there was demand for Starbucks and this was definitely an area underserved by the brand. If you looked at Ocean City, the nearest store was Somers Point or my store in Margate. Pierce and I bought this building and completely renovated it. There’s a four-bedroom condominium upstairs, and then we have almost 3,000 feet of retail space downstairs. I love the design aspect of opening a store. I worked
with one of Starbucks’ lead designers in New York, Jill Brunstad, who was born and raised in Cape Cod. Jill is brilliant and really had a flavor for shore resort towns. We have 19 pieces of art; 13 are historical photos obtained from the Ocean City Historical Society. Lifestyle: What is your business philosophy? Betz: I found out early in my career that, no matter what the brand, you can always add a degree of quality to it. We are totally passionate about the guest experience. We don’t have customers, we have guests. I try to get my team to think about how you would conduct yourself with a guest in your home. It’s how they’re greeted, the product that we deliver and the cleanliness of the store. I call it the “wow factor.” I can teach them to make a cappuccino, but if they don’t have as a part of their foundation the desire to serve, they’re not going to make it at Starbucks. We focus on promoting from within. Most of our managers started out as baristas, and got promoted to that supervisor’s spot. This is not an easy job. I created a bonus plan that ties our management team to
profitability. Baristas make tips, and anyone from shift supervisor to general manager gets a bonus based on sales and other factors. I’ve found you need to motivate your crew emotionally & financially. The leader within the store is our regional manager, Joan Martin. Here is a woman that is as passionate about the guest experience as she is about her team. We are so blessed, because we have a phenomenal group of caring people who take their responsibilities of running this business very seriously. They take it to heart. My wife still runs the office along with my assistant of 20 years, Liz Robertson. Liz understands the critical aspects of the business & manages them to a tee. Lifestyle: What are your future plans? Betz: In partnership with Pierce, we landed an agreement with Atlantic Health Systems in North Jersey. Over the next eighteen months, we will open seven Starbucksbranded stores within their hospital facilities. Also as a part of our partnership, we will be opening a store at the State Museum of New Jersey in Trenton. This will
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be only the second Starbucks location in a museum. Lifestyle: How do you measure success? Betz: My reward is that I have the opportunity to have an impact on people, whether they are from Russia or Bulgaria and are only here for the summer, or they’re a local high school kid. My reward is that person will do something in the future, and either consciously or subconsciously, they will say; “I handled that situation with that guest or that co-worker because of what I learned at Betz & Associates.” And it’s already happened. When we had an Auntie Anne’s at the Philadelphia airport in the late nineties, I was out front sampling. This beautiful young lady came up to me, wearing a business suit and carrying a briefcase, and greeted me by name. I didn’t recognize her. She said; “I used to work with you at the Cherry Hill Mall store when I was in high school. Now I’m in sales, and a lot of the stuff I do and how I conduct myself in business is what I learned working with you at Auntie Anne’s.” I was in tears by time she was done telling me. n
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An Unsung Legend Revealing the Passion of a Local Surf Pioneer by ROBERT SERGEANT
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Virginia Beach Surf Group Trip, circa 1960
Local surfer Glenn Klotz, circa 1960
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urfing as a passion is little different now than it has ever been. I’m sure native Hawaiians greeted the dawn with the excitement and expectation of the young kids coming to the sport today. Surfing as an industry, however, has come a long way in a short time. It has moved with speed, while the populous of surfing has tried to contain it and keep it true to its rebel roots. The lucky have moved with it, making a name and a living while staying true to the lifestyle. Not all were able to do so, and were swept aside as each swell washed them further down the coast of our collective attention. We are now seeing tributes to the legends of the sport, but what about the pioneers that, for circumstance, became footnotes in history? Every beach town has one or two, the unsung participants of the sport in its infancy. They were part of the foundation and helped carry the sport to what it has become today. We have our own local legends from New Jersey, but as the incredible surf movie Dark Fall by Alex Dephillipo illustrates, it is tough to come from NJ and get recognition in the surfing industry. So, “unsung” is a fitting description of persons who are generally unknown in the surfing industry. This article is a tribute to one of the blocks in the foundation. He was far from the Southern California mainstream, but carried the passion and passed it on to generations. Ron Curcio, a mainstay of southern
LIFESTYLE NOSTALGIA
NJ surfing, had the passion. And over nearly 60 years, surfing has been a passion that he can’t leave behind. Currently in his eighties, Ron resides in Somers Point, driven from the beach in Longport by Hurricane Sandy. He still gets to local surf contests to watch his son Ronnie compete. Ron didn’t start on the beach. In his youth, he was a sportsman who thought his future lay in football or baseball. He grew up in West Philadelphia and after eighth grade moved to the Atlantic City area. While at Atlantic City High School, Ron was quite an athlete. He lettered in four sports, including both football and baseball. He went on to Admiral Farragut Military Academy for one year until he received a scholarship to Tulane to play baseball. While at Tulane, he went to visit family at a hotel in Palm Beach Florida and that was where the story of Ron’s life was to be written. It was in Florida that Ron saw his first surfboard, owned by a big Hawaiian guy who worked as a beach boy at a Florida beachfront hotel. The beach boy told him about Surfer Magazine. It was about that time that surfing was beginning to get a little press, such an article also appeared in Popular Mechanics on how to build your own surfboard. Ron was inspired. Soon Ron was back in Brigantine, where he got the materials and instructions from Dave Sweet to build a surfboard. He always thought surfboards were a thing of beauty and was challenged to build one. His first attempt failed and the board was broken in half and put in the trash, only to wind up the next day in the hands of some local kids who he then saw playing with
the pieces in the surf. Ron was eventually successful, building the initial Curcio Surfboards and opening a surf shop with his longtime friend Jim “Jittery” Bury. Jim was an industrial designer with Rohm and Haas, looking for new ways to use Rohm and Haas materials. Ron was the surf entrepreneur. They were a team, collaborating, designing, and bringing the sport to a new generation of surfers in South Jersey with a number of early innovations developed by Ron and Jim. Early in the history of the business, Ron began with the “private label” concept of surfboards. Ron designed boards that fit the conditions of local surfing, but outsourced the manufacturing to Hobie Alter. That was pretty innovative in itself, but just the first step. Boards shaped to Ron’s design and specs were glassed, shipped to NJ where they were glossed, and then fitted with fins. The fins too were part of Curcio Surfboard innovation. Years before the advent of fins with the backs cut out, Ron was fitting his boards with the distinctive Curcio Shark Fin. Ron experimented and came to the conclusion that these fins were sufficiently stable, yet faster turning than the standard full size fins of the day. Jim “Jittery” was looking for new ways to use plexiglass and so another new innovation was born. The Curcio Surfboards were available with a selection of colors of clear plexiglass fins. Nowhere in the industry could you find another surf manufacturer with such a fin. They were beautiful and distinctive. It was a trademark for Ron’s boards, you knew from a mile away that
this was a Curcio Surfboard. In addition to the unique shape and “private label” of Curcio Surfboards, Ron and Jim had two more great innovations that were way ahead of their time. They came up with a concept for the first modern hollow surfboard built from Rohm and Haas Kydex, a type of plexiglass developed to make indestructible hubcaps for cars. Jim was able to get Rohm and Haas to finance the mold based on Ron’s shape and soon Ron introduced the first prototype. It was beautiful, perfectly clear with a clear plexiglass Curcio Shark Fin. You could see through it like a glass-bottom tour boat. The Curcio hollow plexiglass board was another first, it was a virtually unbreakable surfboard. Ron recalls demonstrating this to both Hobie Alter and Dewey Weber, famous surfboard shapers and manufacturers in California
njlifestyleonline.com
Mac Latz’s vintage Curcio Surfboard with Knife and Fork Inn insignia
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by throwing boards to the concrete from the roof of the surf shop. While impressed, they preferred the short life span of the foam surfboard and told Ron not to build it. As the market developed, Curcio Surfboards fell to the wayside. Curcio Surf Shop began to respond to market pressures. Surfer Magazine was growing in popularity on the east coast as a bimonthly and soon Ron was a dealer for Greg Noll and Hobie. Curcio Surfboards were no longer manufactured. The Curcio design and shape, the glass Shark Fin, the hollow unbreakable board were all gone. You can still see some old classic Curcio boards around. There is Mac Latz’s old board with the distinctive Knife and Fork Inn insignia at the Surf Shack in Ventnor, and another at the NJ Surf Museum in Tuckerton. After Greg Noll, there was Bing, followed by Challenger Eastern Surfboards by Carl “Tinker” West. A new era had begun and Ron continued on. His innovations may not have caught on, but he still had the shop and the Curcio Surf Team. To many of us, that is where the real story is. The number of people Ron brought to the sport where the passion was nurtured, from the first two kids that took two halves the first surfboard construction project to the beach, to the sons and grandsons of local surfers. In the late 1960s, Ron took a bunch of free-spirited teenagers from a diverse background and got them together to form one of the strongest surf teams in the Northeast. He was a guiding voice to many on the team. His concern of keeping kids out of the growing drug culture is one of his strongest legacies today. The South Jersey surf community owes a great deal to Ron Curcio, first and foremost to recognize his contribution as one of the many unsung legends of surfing. n
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LifeStyle On Wheels
OLD-SCHOOL BRAGGING RIGHTS
A glimpse inside the gilded history of the 1958 Cadillac Eldorados BY ELAINE ROSE
1958 Cadillac Eldorado Seville
EFORE HIGH-END EUROPEAN
cars flooded the American market, the name “Cadillac” was synonymous with luxury. And the Eldorado was the top-of-the line car for that division of General Motors, the Cadillac of Cadillacs. The Eldorado was introduced as a show car in 1952, to celebrate the brand’s fiftieth anniversary. The name is Spanish for “golden one.” Cadillac held a company-wide contest to name the new car, and Mary-Ann
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Zukosky Mirini, a secretary in the merchandising department, was the winner. The cars started production for the 1953 model year, but many classic-car enthusiasts say it reached its pinnacle in 1958. The cars were the epitome of elegance, style, and comfort, and contained many features that didn’t become standard on other vehicles until decades later. “Many years ago, Cadillac set its sight on a single goal — to be the standard of the world,” stated the
1958 Cadillac Data Book, a manual produced for the model’s dealers. And in that year, it succeeded. Three versions of the Eldorado were produced in 1958. The most expensive was the Series 70 Eldorado Brougham, a four-door hardtop that debuted the previous year. It sold for $13,704, a princely sum in those days. In fact, the Brougham was more expensive than the 1958 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud. It was handmade, and only 304 were produced in 1958.
Photos courtesy of GM Media Archive
1958 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz The interior upper-door panels were finished in leather, and the buyer had a choice of fifteen colors. Celebrities snapped up most of the 1958 Eldorado Broughams, leaving very few for members of the public. Two other versions of the Eldorado, the Seville and Biarritz, sold for a more modest base price of $7,500. The Seville was a two-door hardtop. The Biarritz, named after a seaside resort in France, was a two-door convertible. Both were among the earliest cars to have the tail fins that typified American cars of that era. Detroit produced only 815 of the Biarritz model in 1958, while the Seville had wider distribution. The 1958 Eldorado Biarritz and Seville were huge, especially by today’s standards. Both cars were 223.4 inches — or more than 18.5 feet — long and eighty inches wide. The cars weighed between 5,000 and 5,500 pounds, depending on the options, and came with 335-horsepower engine with 405 foot-pounds of torque. The V-8 engine had a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission. Power brakes and power steering were standard Cadillac features. The Eldorado’s fuel tank held twenty gallons, and the owner’s manual indicated it ran best on high-octane gasoline. The specifications at the time did not include miles per gallon. But given the fact that oil flowed freely and gasoline
cost less than thirty cents a gallon in the late 1950s, it wasn’t an issue. But it was the styling and interiors that separated the Cadillac Eldorado from the pack. Unlike most Cadillacs, the Biarritz and Seville did not have hood ornaments. Instead, they had decorative moldings on the front fenders. The Sabre-Spoke wheels were mounted on whitewall tires, coated with chromium, with chrome molding around the rear-wheel wells. The rear fin panels were marked with the Cadillac crest. Buyers had a choice of several exterior colors when they placed their orders at the dealership. The 1958 Data Book brags about a safety feature on both the Biarritz and the Seville that protected the car and its occupants at night. A light was hidden in the recesses of the interior door panel. “When a door is opened a red glow illuminates the door panel as a warning to cars approaching from the rear and as an aid for passengers entering and leaving the car,” the manual states. The concept of four headlights was introduced on the 1957 Eldorado Brougham, and were standard for the 1958 Seville and Biarritz. The outer beams were for city driving and the inner beams provided stronger light for cruising on back roads. Options included tinted glass and an “autronic eye,” which would automatically turn
off the high beams when it sensed another vehicle approach in the opposite direction. The interior of the Eldorado was like sitting in a mobile living room. The seats of the Biarritz were made of special-grained Cape Buffalo leather, available in several colors, with trim offered in metallic shades as well. The carpet was a deep-pile Nylon blend. The Seville came with a choice of fine-fabric or leather seats. Both cars had Six-Way power seats, where passengers could push a button to adjust the seats forward and backwards, vertically, or to change the angle. The Biarritz had a retractable center armrest in the front seat, while the Seville had the feature in both front and rear seats. Standard on both models were four cigarette lighters and ashtrays, two each for the front and rear seats. As a convenience for shoppers and people who had to open their vehicles for inspection, the trunk could be opened automatically by pushing a button in the glove box. Power windows, which did not become standard on ordinary vehicles until decades later, were included on the Eldorado. Vent windows (you have to be eligible to join the AARP to remember them) were also electronic. Power locks were an option on the 1958 Eldorado. For those who wanted the style of the Eldorado, but found its price to njlifestyleonline.com
LIFESTYLE | September Issue 2014
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be out of their range, General Motors offered the Buick Riviera Limited. Like the Eldorado, the 1958 Buick Riviera limited came as a four-door hardtop sedan, a two-door hardtop coupe, or a two-door convertible. The base price was just above $5,000, making it more affordable than the Eldorado. The Riviera Limited had some of the Eldorado’s bells and whistles, such as power windows, but wasn’t quite as elegant. The engine was a bit weaker, too, at 300 horsepower. The convertible came with leather seats and the hardtops were upholstered with fabric. Cadillac manufactured the Eldorado in various incarnations until 2002, the fiftieth model year. The 1976 Fleetwood Eldorado was the last convertible to roll off an American production line, with a run of 14,000 vehicles. By then, the popularity of convertibles had declined, Cadillac general manager Edward C. Kennard noted at a press event held when the last car was completed. Kennard attributed to the change in Americans’ taste to better styling of hardtops, the widespread use of auto air conditioning, and high-speed driving on the nation’s expressways. Convertibles have made a comeback in recent years, but the majority of them are European models, with a few American and Japanese selections. Only the most expensive models come close to the power and luxury found in the 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz. But for the price you’d pay for a new Aston Martin or Ferrari luxury convertible, you may do just as well to seek out a 1958 Eldorado Biarritz. Quite a few of the classic Caddys are available for sale, and the prices range from about $120,000 to $350,000, depending on mileage and condition. If you’re willing to put sweat equity into restoration, beat-up models can be had for as little as $10,000. If it fits your style, and of course, your budget, you’re guaranteed to turn a lot of heads as you drive down New Jersey’s roadways. n
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The Ultimate Club By ALYSON BOXMAN LEVINE
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ARCHITECTURE A $10 million renovation takes Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia from exceptional to exceptionally elite
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uxury and opulence are synonymous with the Trump name, but when you add $10 million to a property many considered already ideal, the result is truly extraordinary. The newly-renovated Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia is a one-of-akind jaw-dropping resort-style destination that, simply put, wows everyone who is fortunate enough to enter. “We have taken this property from a
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club ranked #31, to one of the top private clubs in the country,” reveals Eric J. Quinn, General Manager, Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia. There is not one inch of the 43,000 square foot main clubhouse that has not been touched, enhanced, and transformed into an exceptionally-elegant venue. “We went from a typical cedar brown Adirondack-style clubhouse to a vibrant clubhouse with a black roof and luxurious crystal chandeliers,” revels Quinn. “The
decor is elegant, upscale, and very tastefully done.” Perched on top of a hill overlooking one-of-a-kind panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline, the clubhouse sits some 200 feet above sea level. Formally known as the Pine Hill Golf Club, this exclusive venue was purchased by Donald Trump in 2009, and was wellknown in its own right. Built on the site of a former ski resort and sitting atop the highest point in southern New
Jersey, guests eagerly enjoy the spectacular vantage point that celebrates the city of Philadelphia and the surrounding countryside. Designed by legendary golf course guru Tom Fazio, the elite course at Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia is a modern masterpiece. Innovative design is naturally integrated with the picturesque landscape to create a world-class private club experience for golfers of all levels. Providing views of the city skyline throughout the course, this extraordinary location will astound even the most well-travelled golfer. Fazio masterfully designed a property that is both beautiful and challenging, with 18-holes boasting distinctly different characteristics. Many people don’t know this about Mr. Trump, but golf is very important to him, reveals Quinn. “Donald Trump believes in golf and he invests in it. He is, simply put, good for golf, and I say that after being in the industry for over 20 years. His firm dedication and commitment to the game of golf can be seen in all of his properties.” When it comes to Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia, the absolute show-stopper of the renovation project is, hands down, the massive pool complex. “It is truly a gem that has brought the entire club to the next level in luxury,” explains Quinn. Sitting just to the right of the clubhouse, the pool complex is a true resort environment, lavishly outfitted with a grand salt-water heated pool, a 22,000 square foot concrete pool deck, cabanas galore, a massive bar area with 70-inch televisions, and elegant table-side service. Upon entering the recently-renovated pool complex, you get the feeling of being immediately transformed to the Hollywood Hills of California as you look down regally on the city. “The most wonderful and exclusive concept of the renovation is that we have created a barrier between our entrance and the clubhouse,” explains Quinn. “Guests really don’t know what is around them, adding to the unique sense of privacy. Stone rock walls and intricate shrubbery add an air of seclusion to the space. There is absolutely nothing like this
in the area.” And, you don’t have to be a member to experience this exclusive private oasis. “One unique aspect of the locale is that, even though we are a private club, we keep our banquet facility open for outside events for those that are non-members,” reveals Quinn. The magnificentlyrenovated banquet room can hold from
250-275 guests comfortably. “As part of the redesign, we created a “Trump Patio” where we perform the ceremonies,” says Quinn. This magnificent spot is perched up in the hills with the panoramic views of Philadelphia in the background. “When you experience this, it is hard to believe that you are in flat South Jersey,” chuckles Quinn.
LIFEST YLE ARCHITECTURE
While the venue is masterfully experienced at handling large groups, the staff also gives friendly and professional attention to small parties as well. With an expert staff, incredible cuisine, stateof-the-art facilities and an unparalleled golf course, Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia is an ideal choice for weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, award banquets, business meetings, corporate outings, private parties, and so much more. Members and their guest enjoy both lavish and casual exclusive social events and celebrations throughout the year. With the focus on family, members are invited to celebrate major holidays, such as Easter, Mother’s Day, and Thanksgiving, in the elegant banquet room. Children are celebrated at Trump National Golf Club - Philadelphia, and Brunch with Santa and Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, in addition to a “spooky” unforgettable Halloween Party, delight youth of all ages. Adult members share in the fun and elegance with social events featuring live entertainment and dancing. Both fine and casual dining is pleasantly offered throughout the afternoon and evening at the club in a variety of indoor
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and outdoor environments designed to meet the needs of members and their social guests or business meetings. Relax and enjoy the delicious cuisine prepared by the club’s experienced and creative culinary staff led by Executive Chef Jeff De Lawder, graduate of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Expertly complemented by an extensive array of fine wine and beer selections, the freshly-created entrees appeal to all five senses. The extensive menu changes four times a year, offering something for everyone and every palate. And membership certainly does have its privileges. In addition to the club’s countless amenities, members will also automatically receive a TRUMP CARD, an exciting privileges program providing exclusive benefits from the Trump Hotel Collection to enjoy at hotel properties in New York (Trump International & Trump SoHo), Chicago, Las Vegas, and Waikiki. “Mr. Trump has passionately made an investment into this market, and what we have created truly stands alone,” says Quinn. “I have been very involved with Mr. Trump, and his son Eric, in creating and overseeing this
project, and have truly come out amazed. We all worked together seamlessly to benefit our members, from Center City Philadelphia to the South Jersey market.” And membership is growing by leaps and bounds, confirms Quinn, with future plans including the construction of tennis courts and overnight cottages. “The unique thing about this project is that once we completed it, many of our members with beach homes now actually cut their weekends short to come back to the club on Sundays,” reveals Quinn. “They will spend the day relaxing at the pool and then have dinner as a family.” The experience you will get from a visit to this club is truly awe-inspiring. “As an avid golfer, I can tell you that this club and setting are truly something very special,” said Donald Trump. “I invite you to experience for yourself the extraordinary grounds and sophisticated amenities of Trump National Golf Club Philadelphia.” n For more information, contact Membership Director, Donna Surrette at (856) 248-2986, dsurrette@ trumpnational.com. Visit www.trumpnationalphiladelphia.com.
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Lifestyle Venues By MOLLY GOLUBCOW
NJ LifeStyle Magazine’s
Top Chefs Atlantic City WE GET PERSONAL WITH FOUR EXCEPTIONAL AREA CHEFS Chef Luke Palladino
Chef Alain Allegretti DO “TOO MANY CHEFS SPOIL THE SOUP?” Not in the Atlantic City area where the culinary gods have blessed local restaurants with some incredibly notable talent, including Chefs Allegretti, Palladino, Savarese, and Garces. Collectively, they bring years of experience and food savvy to the table (in a most literal sense), impressing and satisfying thousands of people in restaurants all over the world. You can easily learn about their backgrounds by googling them. However, New Jersey Lifestyle takes an extra “bite” to introduce you to each chef on a more intimate, personal level. So, let’s get up close to four of the best chefs in town.
Chef Jose Garces
Chef Will Savarese
CHEF ALAIN ALLEGRETTI
Growing up on a farm in the French Alps, Chef Allegretti fell in love with cooking helping his grandmother prepare homemade ragouts and fresh pastas. He perfected his gastronomic skills on the Cote d’Azur under the tutelage of giants like Maximin and Alain Ducasse. In New York City, Chef Allegretti was co-executive chef at Le Cirque 2000 and then executive chef at Atelier (RitzCarlton). He opened his first establishment in New York in 2008, Allegretti’s, followed by La Promenade des Anglais. Regardless of the restaurant he is associated with, Allegretti offers his signature cuisine — a perfect culinary blend of French culinary techniques with his Italian heritage. Locally, Chef Allegretti brings his style to Azure (Revel, Atlantic City). The restaurant surrounded by stunning views of blues — ocean and sky — offers an elegant place to savor Allegretti’s Mediterranean magic, including handmade pastas, grilled whole fish, and stellar wines. LIFESTYLE: If you could have dinner with anyone past or present, who would that be and what would you eat? Chef Allegretti: For me, it’s all about memories. So I would love to be able to sit down at the table again with both of my grandmothers. One was Italian, and her tagliolini al pomodoro e basilico from the garden is something I haven’t been able to find anywhere else, even when I do it myself. The other was Vietnamese; her phao and bo bun were both knockouts with the perfect amount of spice. LIFESTYLE: What is your favorite ingredient to work with? Chef Allegretti: With so many options out there, and prepared the right way, olive oil can take any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Plus, it’s super healthy! LIFESTYLE: In your restaurants, what is the most important part of a meal for your customers? Chef Allegretti: The appetizer is the first dish guests consume and sets
the expectation for the rest of the meal. It’s like the first date — if you don’t get that right, you may never recover. LIFESTYLE: What do you eat for comfort food? Chef Allegretti: Comfort food to me is about getting your hands a little dirty. Pizza, tacos, or guacamole with chips are my comforting go-tos. LIFESTYLE: What would you include on your menu for a perfect romantic dinner? Chef Allegretti: For me romance can’t be overly complicated. A simple tuna crudo is perfect — it’s light, simple, and looks good. LIFESTYLE: If your life were a book or movie, what would the title be? Chef Allegretti: “Blood, Sweat, and Olive Oil”.
CHEF LUKE PALLADINO
Voted “most likely to succeed” by classmates at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Chef Palladino has made his mark in the culinary arena. His passion for design, service, and style combined with the art of pasta making and other traditional Italian dishes has earned him accolades including “the best unknown Italian chef in America.” Whether using local products and preparing simple, Tratoria-style meals or more complex, signature dishes that reflect his Italian heritage and artistry, he excels deliciously. Palladino’s resume is impressive as executive chef and partner at Ristorante al Covo (Venice), as well other fine restaurants all throughout Italy. In the United States, Palladino worked with top chefs including Chefs Paul Bertolli and Emeril Lagasse. In 2003, the Atlantic City area was fortunate to have Palladino grace her tables with three restaurants inside the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City showcasing his passion for Italian cuisine. Today, you can enjoy Chef Palladino’s exquisite creations at three locations — Palladino’s (Linwood), LP STEAK (Northfield), and Luke’s Kitchen & Marketplace (Revel, Atlantic City). njlifestyleonline.com
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LIFEST YLE VENUES
LIFESTYLE: If you could have dinner with anyone past or present, who would that be and what would you eat? Chef Palladino: Michelangelo. I would make something considered classic in the Tuscan Region where Michelangelo is from, like Arista di Maiale (spit-roasted pork). LIFESTYLE: What is your favorite ingredient to work with? Chef Palladino: It depends on the season, I have way too may favorite ingredients to list. LIFESTYLE: In your restaurants, what is the most important part of a meal for your customers? Chef Palladino: Every aspect of the dining experience is critical — music, lighting, temperature, service. When people come to my restaurants, they are in our care and we do everything we can to look after them. LIFESTYLE: What do you eat for comfort food? Chef Palladino: Sushi delivery! LIFESTYLE: What would you include on your menu for a perfect romantic dinner? Chef Palladino: Anything that incorporates decadent ingredients — lobster, caviar, truffles, dark chocolate. LIFESTYLE: If your life were a book or movie, what would the title be? Chef Palladino: “Stranger in a Strange Land”
CHEF WILL SAVARESE
With more than 30 years of culinary experience, Chef Will has worked for some of the finest restaurants in New York City including Aureole and Le Cirque. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Savarese served as Chef de Cuisine at La Cote Basque earning a New York Times 3-star rating. In addition, Savarese spent time as a private chef for select clients and served as Executive Chef for La Cremaillere in Bedford, NY from 1999 to 2005 earning the restaurant their first 4-star review. Subsequent to that Savarese served as the culinary head for The Tap House (Tuckahoe, New York), where he earned another New York Times 3-Star rating. Currently, Chef Will serves as the executive chef for Robert’s Steakhouse (Taj Mahal, Atlantic City) where he brings his years of culinary experience as well as his background in French cooking to Robert’s making the restaurant “unique in the steakhouse sector.” Why? According to Chef Will, “I push myself and my staff to learn something new every day to make the menu work and to get consistency — it’s a passion and why I do it.” LIFESTYLE: If you could have dinner with anyone past or present, who would that be and what would you eat? Chef Savarese: I would dine with the Knights of the Round Table, including King Arthur and Robin Hood. It would be a great feast including big chunks of meat — steaks and whole roasted pig. LIFESTYLE: What is your favorite ingredient to work with? Chef Savarese: Working with any ingredient means it has to work — it has to come from within. But, to pick one ingredient, I would say salt. From sea salt to fleur de sel — it has its own component and special use on a plate. LIFESTYLE: In your restaurants, what is the most important part of a meal for your customers? Chef Savarese: Butter, it makes the meal. If the butter is good — taste, fat count — that’s the key. Following good butter, comes good bread and the rest of the meal. LIFESTYLE: What do you eat for comfort food? Chef Savarese: My all-time comfort food is a breaded chicken cutlet with Italian seasoning — and extra garlic, of course.
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LIFESTYLE: What would you include on your menu for a perfect romantic dinner? Chef Savarese: Simply said, it would be things to share — like roasted rack of lamb for two, Grand Marnier, soufflé, and chocolate — a must have especially if it’s dark chocolate! LIFESTYLE: If your life were a book or movie, what would the title be? Chef Savarese: “The Passionate Cook” — presented as a TV reality show!
CHEF JOSE GARCES
Chef Garces was first introduced to food preparation in his paternal grandmother’s kitchen. In the pursuit of perfecting his skills, Garces enrolled and then graduated from Chicago’s Kendall College School of Culinary Arts, worked in New York City, and then moved to Philadelphia. Best Chef, Mid-Atlantic region by the James Beard Foundation and Iron Chef winner (2009) are only a few labels used to describe Chef Garces and his successes. He owns seven restaurants in Philadelphia, including Volver and Village Whiskey. In addition, Garces operates restaurants in Arizona and California making his style of cuisine available coast to coast. In Atlantic City, Chef Garces brings his “authentic” and “innovative” cuisine to three restaurants at Revel: Amada, Village Whiskey, and Distrito Cantina. LIFESTYLE: If you could have dinner with anyone past or present, who would that be and what would you eat? Chef Garces: Ernest Hemingway. Due to his well-known affinity for all things Cuban, I’d whip up one of my specialties inspired by the island: Enchilado de Langosta (lobster in spicy tomato sauce), accompanied by a salad made with hearts of palm and lots of proper daiquiris. LIFESTYLE: What is your favorite ingredient to work with? Chef Garces: At the moment, my favorite ingredient is any vegetable that grows on my 40-acre farm in Bucks County, Luna Farm. I love combining these veggies and fresh herbs in different ways, like on a pizza or in a big, fresh salad. LIFESTYLE: In your restaurants, what is the most important part of a meal for your customers? Chef Garces: Flavor, flavor, flavor! The food absolutely has to be topnotch, but warm and hospitable service is of paramount importance, too. LIFESTYLE: What do you eat for comfort food? Chef Garces: I love pizza in all of its various shapes and forms, from the deep-dish pies I grew up with in Chicago to a fresh, veggie-focused gardener’s pizza, and everything in between. LIFESTYLE: What would you include on your menu for a perfect romantic dinner? Chef Garces: I’d start with the Ceviche de Atún — tuna ceviche — from our menu at Distrito. The freshness of the tuna plus the luxuriousness of the coconut-serrano puree is one of my favorite combinations. Then it’d be the Pescado a la Veracruzana for the main course: whole grilled fish with tomatoes, capers, green olives and jalapeños. It’s always fun to show off a little bit when there’s a romantic element, and filleting the whole fish for myself and my dinner date is a perfect way to do it. Dessert undoubtedly would have to be something chocolate. LIFESTYLE: If your life were a book or movie, what would the title be? Chef Garces: The title of my second cookbook, “The Latin Road Home,” already sums it up pretty nicely. The recipes and the stories surrounding them truly do make up my journey on this earth. When you grow up around great cooks and great food like I did, the journey’s culinary element appears very early! n
RESTAURANT REPORT by BILL HENRY
Celebrating Deliciously Brûlée Catering by Chef Jean-Marie Lacroix now producing events of all sizes at The Claridge Hotel Ballrooms ChefJean-Marie Lacroix Photos by STAVRA Photography PARTICULARLY DURING THE summer months when their well-heeled clients spend time entertaining in their shore homes, Philadelphia’s Brûlée Catering has for the past several years brought the renowned cuisine of legendary Chef-Partner Jean-Marie Lacroix to all New Jersey shore points. Now this distinguished and experienced events team can offer all types of celebrations year-round in spaces throughout The Claridge Hotel, including The Claridge Ballroom, Southampton Room and Ocean View Grand Ballroom. Brûlée was recently chosen as the exclusive caterer for the newly re-opened Claridge Hotel. Under new ownership, the Claridge has recently refurbished the historic 1920’s landmark hotel. Centrally located on the world famous Atlantic City boardwalk, the Claridge Hotel is a perfect spot to host parties and events — including elegant weddings in the hotel’s Ocean View Grand Ballroom. Chef Lacroix and his brigade of chefs are committed to creating customized menus and are dedicated to executing them for events of all sizes. Together, Brûlée Catering and The Claridge Hotel will offer exclusive hotel room and catering packages. n Brûlée Catering, Tel: 215-923-6000, info@brulee-catering.com, Brulee-Catering.com
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6105 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp 609-272-8808 berkshiregrillnj.com
Superbly prepared entrees including aged USDA Choice steaks, slow roasted Prime Rib and Grilled Chicken Portofino. Signature entrees include Mandarin Glazed Salmon, Spinach Pecan Salad, and Shrimp & Mussels Linguine. A large selection of sandwiches, salads, wraps, steaks, chicken, seafood and pasta is offered.
1030 N. Blk Horse Pike, Williamstown 856-728-8064 www.libraryiv.com The area’s greatest steakhouse under the direction of owner Brian O’Keeney. Offering quality prepared food and friendly service. Serving hand-cut steaks by the ounce, prime rib, seafood, veal and chicken. The Library IV restaurant has been the area’s top steakhouse for 30 years. A recently completed remodel includes a new kitchen, new 30-foot long salad bar and dining rooms. A casual and cozy atmosphere sets this restaurant apart from the others, and their commitment to top quality has stood the test of time.
Girasole Ristorante & Lounge
3108 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 609-345-5554 www.girasoleac.com An Italian boutique restaurant with a strong Mediterranean influence. Fresh ingredients and simple preparations, served in style, with Versace banquettes and place-settings. A beautiful bar with a noteworthy selection of custom cocktails and quality wines are offered.
Tun Tavern Barista’s Coffee House
199 New Road Ste. 10, Central Square Linwood, NJ 609-904-2990 baristascoffeehouse.com Owners Mark and Debbie Becker have created the perfect “neighborhood” atmosphere coffee house. Brewing up more than just coffee, customers come back time and time again for Barista’s espresso, tea breakfast, Liege waffles, Brussels waffles, gourmet desserts, and italian gelato. Once you walk through the doors, you instantly become part of the “Barista’s Family”. Open Mon. - Fri., 7AM-6 PM and Sat., 8 AM-6 PM.
LP STEAK — Steakhouse & Seafood
Plaza 9 Shopping Center, 1333 New Road, Northfield, NJ 609-646-8189 www.lukepalladino.com The latest concept from Luke Palladino, LP STEAK is a bold steakhouse with something to please everyone. The menu features classic cuts of Prime beef, modern twists on traditional side dishes, as well as veal, chicken, and seafood. This stylish BYOB allows diners to experience Chef Palladino’s culinary flair in an American Steakhouse.
2 Convention Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ 609-347-7800 www.tuntavern.com The Tun Tavern takes pride in being a fine restaurant as well as a brewery. Whether it’s inside soaking up the atmosphere or outside on the deck, the Tun Tavern provides a great dining experience. Take a look at the menu and see what wonderful delights they have in store for you. Tun Tavern Serves the Finest Black Angus Steaks, Filets and Burgers. We also serve fresh seafood including our Tun favorite Ahi Tuna Wasabi, also Calamari, plus the original Philly Cheesesteak, with healthy salad options and tempting appetizers. Lunch and dinner served daily, and parking is free.
Luke Palladino The Melting Pot
2112 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 609-441-1100 www.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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Seasonal Italian Cooking 199 New Road, Central Square, Linwood 609-926-3030 www.lukepalladino.com Newly relocated and expanded, this Atlantic County BYOB features authentic Italian cuisine that honors tradition, yet is boldly spontaneous. Chef Palladino’s pride and passion is evident in the menu, featuring hand-crafted pastas, seasonal local produce, and expertly prepared fish and meats. The beautiful design provides the perfect setting for your next private party. Open daily for dinner 5-10 PM and lunch M-F, 11-3 PM.
Crab Trap
2 Broadway, Somers Point, NJ 609-927-7377 www.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.
We’ll be the first to admit our name doesn’t tell the whole story. 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.
Bountiful Seafood. Succulent Steaks. Perfect Pastas. And yes, Award-Winning Crab Cakes. Voted “Best Place for Dinner” by the 2013 Press Readers Poll
On the circle in Somers Point 609-927-7377 Maplewood
470 White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 6126 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing, NJ 609-561-9621, 609-625-1181 www.maplewood.me For almost 70 years, Joe Italiano’s Maplewood has been known for its consistently great food! They believe that freshness and loving preparation are keys to satisfied customers. They have high standards for their food. Consistency can and should be expected. Food is fresh, salads are made to order, and pasta is boiled right before sauce is poured over it. “Gravy” or red sauce is made fresh daily and is loved by the people in the area. They only use the finest ingredients at the Original Maplewood. Two locations — Same Great Food. Your Choice.
Smithville Inn
1 N. New York Road, Smithville, NJ 609-652-7777 www.smithvilleinn.com A lovely historical inn on 40 acres of pristine gardens and lakes. The Smithville Inn offers a wide selection of cuisine and is one of South Jersey’s premiere restaurants. Minutes away from Atlantic City, in the Historic Towne of Smithville. Serving sophisticated comfort food in a warm environment. Specialties include Chicken Pot Pie, Crab Cakes, and Osso Bucco Frico. A tradition of hospitality that has been carried on since 1787. Banquets and private parties offerd, plus Sunday brunch.
Serving from 11am Children’s Menu Available Lunch • Dinner • Cocktails Live Music • Deck Bar
Great Food. Great Drinks. Great Atmosphere.
One Visit and You’ll Feel Like a Regular
Mon - Thurs 4-11 Fri -saT 4-12 sun 3-10
Introducing our After 8pm Special Menu
(609) 272-8808
www.BerkshireGrillnJ.coM
6105 Black horse Pike & enGlish creek, eGG harBor TownshiP
Have an appetizer or sandwich with a beer or our glassAfter of wine... Introducing 8pm Special Me Only $8 from 8pm till closing every night. Have an appetizer or sandw Available in the bar, and dining room.
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with a beer or glass of win
Only $8 from 8pm till closi LIFESTYLE | every September Issue all 2014summer night lon 35
CASINO DINING RESORTS
THE PIER AT CAESARS
Capriccio
Gallagher’s Steakhouse
N. Carolina & Boardwalk, Atlantic City 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.
N. Carolina & Boardwalk, Atlantic City 609-344-6000 www.resortsac.com No passport needed for this Italian experience. Capriccio’s all new menu features gourmet Italian cuisine in an exquisitely comfortable Mediterranean atmosphere, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Capriccio’s has beautiful murals on the walls featuring Old World Italy. Try the lobster with shiitake mushrooms and sweet peppers served on a baked polenta round; or the Costolette di Vitello alla Lombardese; or absolutely the Ossobuco di Vitello alla Lombardese, braised in a red wine and tomato sauce served with saffron risotto. The food is as spectacular as the view.
Phillips Seafood
Pier at Caesars, Atlantic City 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.
BORGATA
The LifeSTyLe RepoRT
Wolfgang Puck American Grille
One Borgata Way, Atlantic City 609-317-1000 www.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
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One Borgata Way, Atlantic City 609-317-1000 www.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.
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Achieving them requires a PLAN. n As SEC REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISORS we adhere to a higher standard of fiduciary care. n As PRACTICING CPA’s we understand the complexities of the current tax system and work to maximize tax efficiencies. n As INDEPENDENT ADVISORS, we remain product neutral, transparent, and answer only to you, the client. n With an emphasis placed on FUNDAMENTAL FINANCIAL PLANNING, we strive to help you achieve your long term investment goals. n With over $360 Million in assets under management, we have the RESOURCES, the EXPERIENCE and the KNOWLEDGE to help you achieve your financial goals. n THOMAS E. REYNOLDS, CPA is designated as a National Football
League Players Association Financial Advisor.
We are CRA Financial. 609-641-4000 332 TILTON ROAD, NORTHFIELD, NJ www.crafinancial.com
Matthew J. Reynolds, CPA, CFP Thomas E. Reynolds, CPA Francis C. Thomas CPA, PFS Robert T. Martin, CFP
Annette Thomas and Terri Rodino, APN APG Primary Care Plus Northfield
I believe
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In March of this year, Annette Thomas almost died. Her health was slowly deteriorating, but she didn’t realize it. Annette didn’t have a regular primary care provider, so at the request of her daughter, she made an appointment with an AtlantiCare Primary Care Plus provider. And she’s glad she did. Her Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), Terri Rodino, discovered that Annette’s blood pressure was dangerously high. Terri immediately sent her to the emergency department at AtlantiCare, where they determined Annette had blockages in the left and right sides of her heart. Quite the dramatic turn of events— Annette would ultimately require two stents. Months later, she feels like a new person. She’s healthy once again, and spends her days without any of the symptoms that plagued her before her emergency. No more shortness of breath, headaches or fatigue. She can keep up with her grandkids and their busy schedules—all thanks to the coordinated services of AtlantiCare. Annette continues to see Terri for routine care, as well as her cardiologist for follow-up care. She’s even started referring her friends to AtlantiCare. Annette is indebted to Terri for the support she provided. “It’s like a miracle happened,” she recalls warmly. “Terri saved my life.”
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